Best Guitars Under $900 in 2026: 12 Picks Compared on Specs
We compared 12 guitars under $900 across acoustic, electric, classical, and bass categories. For most players, the Fender Redondo Classic stands out as a straightforward standard acoustic, while the Yamaha SLG200S offers unique silent practice and travel features. Our selections are based on published specifications and seller listings; we did not test any instruments. Prices shown on the page are live from the store.
12 picks from 38 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.
Quick list
Which one is right for you?
- For travelers and quiet practice: If you need a guitar that's easy to carry and lets you play silently, the Yamaha SLG200S and SLG200N are the only picks with a travel notation and silent design. See pick 2
- For nylon-string fingerstyle: Classical and flamenco players should look at the Cordoba GK Studio or the handcrafted Kremona R65CWC, both listed as nylon-string classical guitars. See pick 4
- For bass players: Bassists have two solid options: the Schecter Stiletto Custom-4 (4-string) and the Martin 000C Jr E acoustic bass. Both are listed as bass guitars. See pick 7
- For 12-string enthusiasts: The Takamine GJ72CE is the only 12-string in this selection, listed as an acoustic-electric jumbo with a 12-string configuration. See pick 6
All 12 picks in detail
1 Best overall
The Fender Redondo Classic is a full-size acoustic with a gig bag and a two-year warranty, making it a low-risk choice for most players. Its specs list only the body style and fingerboard material, but the included gig bag and warranty are practical advantages over some alternatives.
Pros
- Includes a gig bag
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Pau Ferro fingerboard listed
Cons
- Body shape not stated by the seller
- No on-board electronics listed
Good fit if
- Players who want a standard acoustic without extra electronics
- Those who value a warranty and a gig bag in the box
Skip if
- You need a cutaway or built-in pickup
- You prefer a smaller, travel-friendly body
Verdict: A solid, well-supported standard acoustic for players who want a no-frills instrument.
2 Best for travel and silent practice
Yamaha SLG200S NT Steel String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag
- Type
- Acoustic
- Travel or mini
- Yes
The Yamaha SLG200S is the only pick with a travel designation and a silent design, allowing headphone practice without an amplifier. The hard gig bag adds protection, and the steel-string configuration suits players who want a familiar acoustic feel.
Pros
- Silent frame for headphone practice
- Listed as travel-friendly
- Includes a hard gig bag
Cons
- No internal electronics specs provided
- Body shape uncommon for traditional acoustic players
Good fit if
- Apartment dwellers who need to practice quietly
- Frequent travelers who want a compact, protected instrument
Skip if
- You want a traditional wooden acoustic tone
- You prefer a full-sized dreadnought body
Verdict: A unique silent practice and travel solution for players who prioritize discretion.
3 Best nylon silent practice
Yamaha SLG200N Nylon String Classical Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag
- Type
- Classical or nylon
- Travel or mini
- Yes
$879.99 (as of 10/26/2026 03:00 PDT - Details)
Like its steel-string sibling, the SLG200N offers silent practice and travel convenience, but with nylon strings for a warmer, softer attack. It is listed as a classical or nylon guitar and includes a hard gig bag.
Pros
- Nylon strings for a mellow feel
- Silent frame for quiet practice
- Travel-friendly with hard gig bag
Cons
- No detailed electronics spec
- May feel unfamiliar to steel-string players
Good fit if
- Classical or fingerstyle players who want to practice silently
- Travelers who prefer nylon strings
Skip if
- You need a traditional classical guitar with a resonant body
- You play with a pick and prefer steel strings
Verdict: The nylon-string version of the silent Yamaha is ideal for classical players who need quiet practice.
4 Best classical
Cordoba GK Studio Ltd Nylon String AE Guitar Natrl
- Type
- Classical or nylon
$849.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:24 PDT - Details)
The Cordoba GK Studio Ltd is a nylon-string acoustic-electric guitar, listed as a classical or nylon type. As a dedicated classical model from a known maker, it offers a more traditional construction than silent or thin-body alternatives.
Pros
- Classical nylon string design
- Acoustic-electric capability (listed)
- From a brand specializing in classical guitars
Cons
- Electronics details not specified
- No cutaway mentioned
Good fit if
- Players who want a plugged-in classical guitar
- Those who prefer the sound and feel of nylon strings
Skip if
- You need a cutaway for upper-fret access
- You want a solid wood top
Verdict: A dependable classical acoustic-electric for players who need to amplify nylon tones.
5 Best for fingerstyle
Kremona R65CWC Nylon-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Type
- Classical or nylon
$849.00 (as of 10/26/2026 00:46 PDT - Details)
The Kremona R65CWC is described as handcrafted in Europe and comes with a padded gig bag, suggesting a focus on playability and portability. Its nylon-string acoustic-electric design suits fingerstyle players who want a warm, responsive voice.
Pros
- Handmade construction stated
- Includes a padded gig bag
- Nylon-string acoustic-electric
Cons
- Specific tonewood not stated
- No pickup model listed
Good fit if
- Fingerstyle players who value craftsmanship
- Those who need a gig bag for protection
Skip if
- You prefer a steel-string acoustic
- You want a guitar with a known pickup system
Verdict: A handcrafted nylon-string option that emphasizes traditional building and portability.
6 Best 12-string
Takamine GJ72CE-12BSB Gloss Brown Sunburst Jumbo 12 String Acoustic
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Strings
- 12
The Takamine GJ72CE is the only 12-string in this selection, listed as an acoustic-electric jumbo. With 12 strings and a jumbo body, it offers the expansive sound and volume that 12-string players expect.
Pros
- 12-string configuration
- Acoustic-electric with jumbo body
- Gloss brown sunburst finish
Cons
- No electronics details
- Jumbo body may be large for some players
Good fit if
- Players who want the rich chorus of a 12-string
- Those who need to amplify in live settings
Skip if
- You prefer a compact body
- You have difficulty with high string tension
Verdict: A solid 12-string acoustic-electric choice for players who need that unique jangle.
7 Best bass
The Schecter Stiletto Custom-4 is a 4-string electric bass, listed with a natural satin finish. As a dedicated bass from a brand known for electric instruments, it covers the lower range well at this price point.
Pros
- 4-string electric bass
- Natural satin finish
- From a brand recognized for electric guitars and basses
Cons
- No pickup or scale length specs
- No gig bag or case included
Good fit if
- Bass players seeking a reliable 4-string
- Those who want a simple, no-frills instrument
Skip if
- You want an acoustic bass
- You need a 5-string or active electronics
Verdict: A straightforward electric bass that does the job without extra features.
8 Best acoustic bass
The Martin 000C Jr E Bass is an acoustic bass with a burst finish, offering a different tonal character from electric basses. Its smaller body (likely a 000 shape) makes it more comfortable for fingerstyle players.
Pros
- Acoustic bass design
- Burst finish (visually distinctive)
- Martin brand heritage
Cons
- No scale length or nut width specs
- No electronics mentioned
Good fit if
- Acoustic players who want bass lines without an amp
- Songwriters who need a portable bass
Skip if
- You need a loud, projecting bass for a band
- You prefer the sustain and punch of an electric bass
Verdict: A compact acoustic bass for unplugged sessions and songwriting.
9 Best hollowbody electric
Artcore Expressionist AG95K Hollowbody Electric Guitar Natural
- Type
- Electric
$829.99 (as of 10/25/2026 22:47 PDT - Details)
The Ibanez Artcore Expressionist AG95K is a hollowbody electric guitar with a natural finish. Hollowbody electrics like this one offer a warm, resonant tone that works for jazz, blues, and rock, and Ibanez's Artcore line is widely recognized for quality at this price.
Pros
- Hollowbody electric construction
- Natural finish
- Ibanez Artcore line known for value
Cons
- No pickup model or scale length stated
- Likely larger body may not suit all players
Good fit if
- Players who want a jazz or blues tone
- Those who appreciate the aesthetics of a hollowbody
Skip if
- You prefer a solidbody for high-gain music
- You need a cutaway for upper-fret access
Verdict: A classic hollowbody option that brings vintage-style warmth to your tone.
10 Best vintage-style hollowbody
Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-cut Electric
- Type
- Electric
$899.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)
The Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is a single-cut hollowbody electric with a classic design. Gretsch is known for its hollowbody electrics, and this model includes a Bigsby-style tremolo (though not explicitly stated, it is common on G5420T). The specs list it as electric.
Pros
- Single-cut hollowbody design
- Gretsch's reputation for hollowbody guitars
- Classic Electromatic series
Cons
- No pickup or bridge details
- Tremolo system not confirmed in listing
Good fit if
- Players who want a rockabilly or country tone
- Those who prefer a single-cut body shape
Skip if
- You need a cutaway or a modern neck profile
- You want a lighter, smaller guitar
Verdict: A stylish hollowbody that captures the Gretsch vibe for vintage enthusiasts.
11 Best for Beatles-style tone
The Epiphone Casino is a hollowbody electric with a worn ebony finish. Famous for its use by the Beatles, the Casino is a historic model, and this worn version gives it a vintage look. Its hollowbody construction is known for a chimey, woody tone.
Pros
- Historic model with iconic status
- Worn finish for a vintage aesthetic
- Hollowbody electric construction
Cons
- No pickup specs listed
- Worn finish may not appeal to everyone
Good fit if
- Fans of 1960s rock and pop
- Players who want a distinctive hollowbody tone
Skip if
- You prefer a pristine, glossy finish
- You need a more modern, aggressive electric sound
Verdict: A piece of rock history that delivers the classic Casino sound in a worn-out look.
12 Best solidbody electric
The PRS SE Swamp Ash Special is a solidbody electric guitar with a charcoal finish. PRS SE models are known for quality construction and versatile electronics, and the swamp ash body likely contributes a balanced, resonant tone.
Pros
- Solidbody electric design
- PRS SE series with established reputation
- Swamp ash body for balanced tone
Cons
- No pickup or scale length specs
- Gig bag included but not specified in listing (mentioned in name only)
Good fit if
- Players who want a versatile solidbody for rock, blues, and more
- Those who appreciate PRS build quality
Skip if
- You need a tremolo system
- You prefer a thinner or lighter guitar
Verdict: A high-quality solidbody that lives up to the PRS name without breaking the bank.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fender Redondo Classic Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Yamaha SLG200S NT Steel String Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Yamaha SLG200N Nylon String Classical Silent Guitar with Hard Gig Bag | Classical or nylon | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Cordoba GK Studio Ltd Nylon String AE Guitar Natrl | Classical or nylon | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Kremona R65CWC Nylon-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Classical or nylon | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Takamine GJ72CE-12BSB Gloss Brown Sunburst Jumbo 12 String Acoustic | Acoustic-electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Schecter Stiletto Custom-4 Electric Bass | Bass | 4 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 8 | Martin 000C Jr E Bass | Bass | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Artcore Expressionist AG95K Hollowbody Electric Guitar Natural | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-cut Electric | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | Epiphone Casino Hollowbody Worn | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | PRS SE Swamp Ash Special | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
From a pool of 32 priced listings, we selected 12 guitars that span the main categories players shop for: standard acoustic, travel-friendly, classical nylon, hollowbody and solidbody electric, bass, and specialty like 12-string and fretless. We shortlisted based on the listed type, travel capability, string count, and product features such as a hard gig bag or handmade construction. We did not test the instruments; all specifications come from the seller's listings. Each product page shows the current, live price and the store's buy button.
What to look for
Acoustic body shapes and tone
Acoustic guitars come in various body sizes, each affecting volume and tone. Dreadnoughts are large and produce a loud, bass-heavy sound, ideal for strumming. Jumbo bodies (like the Takamine GJ72CE) are even larger, offering a big, percussive voice. Smaller shapes like auditorium or concert models provide a more balanced sound, suitable for fingerpicking. When comparing guitars under $900, consider what body size feels comfortable and matches the music you play. The seller's listing may not always note the exact shape, but the type (acoustic, classical, etc.) gives a hint.
Nylon vs. steel strings
Nylon strings (classical guitars) have a softer, warmer attack and are easier on the fingers, making them a good choice for beginners and fingerstyle players. Steel strings are brighter and louder, common in folk, rock, and country. The Yamaha SLG200N and Cordoba GK Studio are nylon options; the Fender Redondo and Takamine are steel-string. Your choice affects not only tone but also playability and required technique. If you play mainly chords and strumming, steel strings are typical; for classical or flamenco, nylon is essential.
Electronics and amplification
If you plan to perform or record, an acoustic-electric guitar includes a pickup and preamp, allowing you to plug into an amp or mixer. The Takamine GJ72CE, Cordoba GK Studio, and Kremona R65CWC are listed as acoustic-electric. When evaluating electronics, check the seller's specs for pickup type and controls, but these details may be missing in the pool. For quiet practice, the Yamaha Silent guitars use a frame with built-in electronics for headphone use, as seen in the SLG200S and SLG200N.
Electric guitar construction: solidbody vs. hollowbody
Solidbody electrics (like the PRS SE) have a solid wood body, offering sustain and resistance to feedback, ideal for rock and high-gain. Hollowbody electrics (like the Ibanez Artcore, Gretsch G5420T, and Epiphone Casino) have a resonant chamber, producing a warmer, more acoustic-like tone, great for jazz, blues, and rockabilly. Hollowbodies are more prone to feedback at high volumes. Consider your genre and stage volume when choosing between these. All our electric picks are full-size guitars; none are travel-sized.
Bass guitars: acoustic vs. electric
Bass players under $900 can choose between electric basses (Schecter Stiletto) and acoustic basses (Martin 000C Jr). Electric basses produce a consistent, punchy tone and are easier to amplify; acoustic basses are quieter and more portable, suitable for unplugged sessions. Also consider string count: the Schecter is a 4-string, which is standard. If you need a wider range or a modern sound, you might look for a 5-string elsewhere. For now, both picks are 4-string, but the Martin's smaller body may be more comfortable for acoustic play.
Travel and silent features
If you need a guitar for travel or quiet practice, look for compact bodies or silent systems. The Yamaha SLG200S and SLG200N are the only picks with a travel notation and silent frame design. They come with a hard gig bag, which protects the instrument during transit. Traditional acoustic guitars are usually bulkier and may need a robust case. Before buying, consider how you'll transport the guitar and whether you need to practice without disturbing others. These silent guitars let you use headphones, so you can play anytime.
Questions
What is the difference between a nylon and steel-string acoustic guitar?
Nylon-string guitars, also called classical guitars, have softer strings that produce a warm, mellow tone with less tension, making them easier on the fingers. Steel-string guitars are brighter, louder, and have higher tension, common in folk, rock, and country. Your choice affects playability, tone, and the music you can play. For fingerpicking or classical, nylon is traditional; for strumming and singing, steel is typical. Some players prefer nylon for its comfort.
Can I practice silently with any of these guitars under $900?
Yes, the Yamaha SLG200S (steel-string) and SLG200N (nylon-string) are designed for silent practice. They use a minimal frame with no large body, so the acoustic sound is very low. You can plug in headphones and listen through the built-in electronics. They also include a hard gig bag for travel. No other pick in this list has that capability, so if silent practice is a priority, these are your choice.
Do hollowbody electric guitars feedback at high volumes?
Hollowbody electric guitars, like the Ibanez Artcore or Gretsch, are more prone to feedback than solidbodies because their hollow chamber resonates and can create a loop with the amplifier. At high volumes, they can be tricky to control. Solidbody guitars, like the PRS, are better for high-gain or loud stages. If you play in a band with loud amps, a hollowbody may need careful equalization or placement. It's a trade-off between tone and practicality.
Is there any 12-string guitar under $900?
Yes, the Takamine GJ72CE is a 12-string acoustic-electric guitar in this list. It has 12 strings, which produce a rich, shimmering chorus effect. It's a jumbo body, giving it plenty of volume and bass. The built-in pickup lets you amplify the sound, though the specific electronics aren't described in the listing. If you're looking for a 12-string, this is the only one in this selection, but it's a solid choice from a reputable brand.
What should I check when buying a bass guitar under $900?
When choosing a bass, consider the number of strings (typically 4 or 5), the scale length (longer for deeper tone), pickup style (single-coil, humbucker, piezo), and whether you need an active or passive circuit. For acoustic basses, size and comfort matter. The Schecter Stiletto Custom-4 is a 4-string electric bass, while the Martin 000C Jr E Bass is a smaller acoustic bass. If you plan to play in a band, an electric bass is easier to amplify; for solo practice, acoustic works.
Update history
- : First published.