Best Left-Handed Guitars in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs
The best left-handed guitar for most players is the Yamaha Pacifica PAC112JL, a full-size electric with a solid build and versatile sound from a brand that has produced left-handed models for decades. We chose 15 left-handed guitars from a pool of 39 catalog listings, comparing body type, electronics, and included accessories. Prices shown are live from the store listing at the time you read them.
15 picks from 40 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 beginners on a budget: A complete electric kit with an amp and accessories fits a first-time player; the Squier Sonic Stratocaster bundle covers all the essentials. See pick 2
- Young and small-handed players: A 3/4-size classical guitar with nylon strings is gentle on small hands; the Pyle kit is the most compact and affordable option here. See pick 14
- Gigging acoustic players: An acoustic-electric with onboard electronics and a left-handed build is the Martin 000-10E Retro Road Series, which adds a tuner and phase control. See pick 8
- Classical and fingerstyle players: A nylon-string guitar with a pickup system suits classical and fingerstyle performers; the Cordoba C5-CE offers a solid cedar top and Fishman electronics. See pick 10
All 15 picks in detail
1 Best overall
Yamaha Pacifica PAC112JL BL Left-Handed Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$319.99 (as of 10/26/2026 03:00 PDT - Details)
The Pacifica PAC112JL offers a full-size electric with a solid alder body, a maple neck, and three single-coil pickups in the classic SSS layout, all from a maker with a long history of left-handed models. It stands out from the other budget electrics in this list for its brand pedigree and versatile pickup selection.
Pros
- Three single-coil pickups for a wide tonal range
- Established maker with consistent left-handed availability
- Full-size solid body electric in a standard configuration
- No amp included, so you can pick your own practice amp
Cons
- No case or gig bag included
- Only one color option (black) listed
- No tremolo bridge, limiting certain styles
Good fit if
- Beginners who want a straightforward, reliable electric guitar
- Players who plan to buy a separate amplifier and accessories
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with an amp and cable
- You prefer a double-cutaway with a flatter radius for heavy metal
Verdict: The Pacifica PAC112JL is the most balanced left-handed electric in this list, combining solid construction with a proven pickup design.
2 Best beginner electric kit
Fender Squier Sonic Stratocaster Left-Handed
- Left-handed
- Yes
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Amp included
- Yes
$369.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:53 PDT - Details)
This Squier Sonic Stratocaster bundle pairs a left-handed Strat-style guitar with a Frontman 10G amp, cable, tuner, strap, picks, and more, making it a turnkey start for a new lefty player. Among the kit electrics in this list, it uses the well-known Stratocaster platform and includes a name-brand amp.
Pros
- Complete kit with amp, tuner, strap, and picks
- Classic Stratocaster body and pickup layout
- 2-year warranty mentioned in the listing
- Left-handed version of the popular Sonic series
Cons
- Amp is low wattage, not suited for gigging
- Not a solid-top acoustic or high-end electric
- Requires assembly and setup after delivery
Good fit if
- First-time electric guitar players who want everything in one box
- Lefties on a budget who prefer a known Fender-affiliated model
Skip if
- You already own an amplifier and accessories
- You want a guitar with humbuckers for heavy distortion
Verdict: The Squier Sonic Stratocaster bundle is the most complete left-handed beginner package here, with a name-brand amp and all the essentials.
3 Best budget shredder
The Ibanez GIO GRX70QAL gives left-handed players the iconic Ibanez RG-style body with two humbuckers and a double-locking tremolo, a setup usually hard to find in left-handed budget axes. It is the only budget electric in this list with a double-locking tremolo.
Pros
- Double-locking tremolo for dive bombs and flutters
- Two humbuckers for high-output rock tones
- Thin, fast Ibanez neck profile
- Transparent blue burst finish is distinctive
Cons
- May require setup to get tremolo intonation right
- No case or bag included
- Not a beginner kit, so you need an amp separately
Good fit if
- Rock and metal players who want a Floyd Rose-style tremolo on a budget
- Lefties who prefer a thin neck and aggressive looks
Skip if
- You want a simple hardtail bridge and low maintenance
- You prefer single-coil tones for clean and surf styles
Verdict: The GRX70QAL packs the most features for its class in this list, especially for players who need a locking tremolo.
4 Best for metal
Jackson JS Series 6 String Dinky Arch Top JS22 DKA LH Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- Strings
- 6
- Left-handed
- Yes
$314.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:35 PDT - Details)
The Jackson JS22 Dinky Arch Top LH is a left-handed electric with a 24-fret neck, two Duncan Designed humbuckers, and a Floyd Rose licensed tremolo, built for heavy styles. It is the only pick in this list with 24 frets, making it a top choice for lead playing.
Pros
- 24 frets for extended range
- Duncan Designed humbuckers for high output
- Floyd Rose licensed tremolo for advanced techniques
- Arch top dinky body with sculpted heel
Cons
- Needs a professional setup for optimal action and tremolo
- No case or gig bag included
- Active pickups would suit metal even better, but these are passive
Good fit if
- Metal and hard rock players who want a left-handed shred machine
- Players who plan to use the tremolo bar extensively
Skip if
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability
- You want a guitar with single-coil pickups for cleaner tones
Verdict: The Jackson Dinky is the most aggressive left-handed electric on this list, with 24 frets and a double-locking tremolo for serious metal.
5 Best classic electric
Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$329.98 (as of 10/26/2026 02:23 PDT - Details)
The Squier Affinity Telecaster in butterscotch blonde is a left-handed take on the most iconic solid-body electric guitar design, with two single-coil pickups and a simple, durable bolt-on neck. It is the only left-handed Telecaster in the pool and offers a distinctly different voice from the Stratocasters.
Pros
- Iconic Telecaster shape and single-coil twang
- Simple, reliable fixed bridge and vintage-style tuners
- Left-handed version of a best-selling model
- 2-year warranty mentioned
Cons
- No humbucker option, so thicker rock tones are limited
- No case or bag included
- Butterscotch blonde may not suit everyone's taste
Good fit if
- Country, blues, and indie players who want a Tele sound
- Lefties who appreciate vintage aesthetics and simplicity
Skip if
- You need a tremolo or humbuckers
- You want a beginner kit with an amp
Verdict: The Affinity Telecaster delivers the classic single-coil Tele voice in a left-handed layout, a rare find in this price range.
6 Best budget acoustic
Fender Left-Handed Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
- Left-handed
- Yes
$229.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:52 PDT - Details)
The Fender CD-60S is a left-handed dreadnought acoustic with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides, a combination that offers a loud, balanced voice for the money. It is the only left-handed solid-top acoustic without electronics in this list.
Pros
- Solid spruce top for improved resonance and projection
- Dreadnought body for strong bass and volume
- 2-year warranty mentioned
- Trusted Fender brand for acoustic guitars
Cons
- No electronics, so cannot plug in
- No case or gig bag included
- Mahogany back and sides may be less bright than rosewood
Good fit if
- Acoustic players who want a full-size, solid-top dreadnought on a budget
- Lefties who plan to play unplugged most of the time
Skip if
- You need a pickup for performing or recording
- You prefer a smaller body for fingerstyle comfort
Verdict: The CD-60S is an excellent solid-top acoustic for players who want a dreadnought without extra features.
7 Best acoustic bundle
Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic
- Left-handed
- Yes
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Solid top
- Yes
$299.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:52 PDT - Details)
This Fender CD-60S bundle adds a hard case, tuner, strap, and more to the same solid-top dreadnought as the standalone model, giving left-handed players a complete acoustic setup. It is the only acoustic bundle in the pool that includes a hard case.
Pros
- Solid spruce top on a dreadnought body
- Includes hard case, tuner, strap, and picks
- Same guitar as the budget pick, with extra accessories
- Left-handed version of a popular model
Cons
- Bundling adds case and accessories, but the guitar is the same as the standalone model
- No electronics or pickup
- Hard case adds weight and bulk for travel
Good fit if
- Acoustic buyers who want a protective case and all accessories at once
- Players who plan to travel with their guitar
Skip if
- You already own a case and tuner
- You need an acoustic-electric for stage use
Verdict: The CD-60S bundle is the most complete acoustic package in this list, adding a hard case and accessories to a proven solid-top guitar.
8 Best acoustic-electric
Martin 000-10E Retro Road Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
The Martin 000-10E Retro Road Series is a left-handed acoustic-electric with a solid spruce top, sapele back and sides, and Martin's E1 electronics that include a tuner and phase control. It is the only Martin in this list that includes electronics, bringing a respected name to the acoustic-electric category.
Pros
- Solid spruce top and sapele body for balanced tone
- E1 electronics with built-in tuner and phase switch
- Dreadnought alternative: 000 body is more comfortable and balanced
- Martin quality in a left-handed model
Cons
- No case or gig bag included
- Not a full-size dreadnought, so less bass than a D-style
- Price is higher than other acoustic-electric options in this list
Good fit if
- Acoustic players who need plug-in capability for gigs or recording
- Those who prefer a smaller, comfortable 000 body
Skip if
- You want a jumbo or dreadnought for maximum volume
- You are on a tight budget and only need an unplugged guitar
Verdict: The Martin 000-10E is the finest left-handed acoustic-electric in this list, with premium electronics and a balanced 000 body.
9 Best acoustic-electric value
Ibanez AEG70L Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Type
- Acoustic-electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$429.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:30 PDT - Details)
The Ibanez AEG70L offers a left-handed acoustic-electric with a cutaway body and a thin, comfortable neck, making it a versatile option for players who need to plug in. At a lower price than the Martin, it still includes a pickup and a built-in tuner.
Pros
- Acoustic-electric with preamp and tuner
- Thin body and cutaway for easy upper-fret access
- Tiger burst high gloss finish is eye-catching
- Left-handed configuration at a moderate price
Cons
- No case or bag included
- Body is not a full-size dreadnought, so projection is lighter
- Tuner may require a 9V battery (not specified)
Good fit if
- Players who want a slim, comfortable acoustic-electric for stage
- Those who need a cutaway for soloing
Skip if
- You prefer a traditional dreadnought sound
- You want a solid wood top (this is laminated per the listing's specs not mentioned)
Verdict: The AEG70L is a practical left-handed acoustic-electric that packs a preamp, tuner, and cutaway into a comfortable body.
10 Best classical electric
The Cordoba C5-CE is a left-handed nylon-string guitar with a solid cedar top and a built-in Fishman preamp, offering a warm classical sound that can be amplified. It is the only nylon-string guitar in this list with electronics.
Pros
- Solid cedar top for rich, warm tone
- Fishman preamp allows plugging in for performance
- Nylon strings are gentle on fingers for beginners
- Left-handed model from a specialist nylon-string maker
Cons
- Classical neck is wider than steel-string guitars
- No case or bag included
- Price is higher than entry-level classical kits
Good fit if
- Classical and fingerstyle players who need amplification
- Lefties who prefer nylon strings for their softer feel
Skip if
- You want a steel-string acoustic for strumming
- You are a beginner on a very tight budget
Verdict: The Cordoba C5-CE is the most versatile left-handed classical guitar in this list, combining a solid cedar top with a practical pickup system.
11 Best hollowbody
Epiphone Casino Archtop Hollowbody Lefty
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$699.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:46 PDT - Details)
The Epiphone Casino is a left-handed hollowbody electric with two P-90 pickups and a fully hollow construction, delivering a classic, airy tone used by the Beatles and many others. It is the only fully hollowbody electric in this list and comes with a gig bag.
Pros
- Fully hollow body for resonant, acoustic-like tone
- Two P-90 pickups for a unique, snappy sound
- Includes a gig bag
- Vintage sunburst finish and iconic Casino design
Cons
- Hollowbody is prone to feedback at high volumes
- No center block, so sustain is shorter than solid-body
- Neck dive may be an issue on a strap (not specified)
Good fit if
- Jazz, blues, indie, and Brit-pop players who want a Casino sound
- Lefties who want a lightweight, resonant electric
Skip if
- You need a guitar for high-gain metal
- You prefer a solid body for feedback resistance
Verdict: The Epiphone Casino is the quintessential left-handed hollowbody, capturing a legendary tone in a practical package with a bag.
12 Best semi-hollow
Guild Starfire I DC Semi-Hollowbody LH Cherry Red
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$599.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:14 PDT - Details)
The Guild Starfire I DC is a left-handed semi-hollow electric with a double-cutaway body and two humbuckers, offering a warmer, more controlled alternative to a solid body. It is the only semi-hollow in this list that is left-handed.
Pros
- Semi-hollow body reduces feedback while retaining acoustic character
- Two humbuckers for thick, warm tones
- Double-cutaway allows easy upper-fret access
- Cherry red finish and binding are visually striking
Cons
- No case or gig bag included
- Heavier than a fully hollow guitar due to center block
- Electronics are not active, so no battery or tone-shaping extras
Good fit if
- Jazz, blues, and classic rock players who want a semi-hollow voice
- Lefties who appreciate a vintage-inspired instrument
Skip if
- You want single-coil twang or aggressive metal tones
- You need a lightweight instrument for long gigs
Verdict: The Guild Starfire I DC is a well-crafted left-handed semi-hollow with humbuckers, perfect for warm, articulate tones.
13 Best twang machine
Gretsch G5420LH Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-cut Left-handed
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
$874.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)
The Gretsch G5420LH Electromatic is a left-handed hollowbody with two Filter'Tron pickups and a Bigsby vibrato, delivering that unmistakable Gretsch twang and rockabilly vibe. It is the only pick in this list with a Bigsby tailpiece.
Pros
- Filter'Tron pickups for chimey, articulate tone
- Bigsby vibrato for expressive pitch effects
- Hollowbody construction with maple body (as per Gretsch specs)
- Left-handed model of a classic design
Cons
- Bigsby can make string changes and tuning less stable
- Hollowbody may feed back at high gain
- No case or bag included
Good fit if
- Rockabilly, country, and indie players who want a Gretsch sound
- Lefties who love vintage aesthetics and vibrato
Skip if
- You need a solid body for high-gain playing
- You prefer a fixed bridge for reliability
Verdict: The Gretsch G5420LH brings classic Gretsch tone and a Bigsby to left-handed players, a rare combination in this list.
14 Best for kids
Pyle 36-Inch Left-Handed Classical Acoustic Guitar Kit
- Type
- Classical or nylon
- Size
- 3/4 or 7/8 size
- Left-handed
- Yes
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- For kids
- Yes
$72.13 (as of 10/26/2026 01:47 PDT - Details)
This Pyle classical guitar kit is sized for younger players with a 3/4 or 7/8 body and includes everything needed to start, making it the most affordable left-handed option in the pool. It is the only pick explicitly marked for kids.
Pros
- Small 3/4 or 7/8 size is comfortable for children
- Nylon strings are easier on young fingers
- Complete kit with case, picks, and accessories (as implied)
- Very low price point
Cons
- Size may be too small for adult players
- Classical-style nut width is wide for small hands
- No brand specification for wood quality (all wood per listing)
Good fit if
- Parents buying a first guitar for a child who is left-handed
- Small-statured adults who prefer a classical nylon-string
Skip if
- You are an adult looking for a full-size acoustic
- You need a steel-string guitar for folk or rock
Verdict: The Pyle 36-inch kit is the least expensive left-handed guitar in this list, ideal for introducing a child to the instrument.
15 Best premium signature
Gibson Tony Iommi SG Special Left-handed
- Left-handed
- Yes
$3,867.04 (as of 10/26/2026 00:07 PDT - Details)
The Gibson Tony Iommi SG Special is a left-handed signature model with dual humbuckers, a slim taper neck, and Gibson's legendary craftsmanship, ideal for heavy riffing. It is the highest-priced electric in this list and the only Gibson in the pool.
Pros
- Signature Tony Iommi model with Gibson build quality
- Two humbuckers for thick, sustain-rich tones
- Iconic SG double-cutaway design
- Left-handed version of a sought-after guitar
Cons
- Premium price is far above other picks
- No case or bag included
- Signature model may have limited availability
Good fit if
- Collectors and professional players who want a Tony Iommi signature
- Lefties who demand a high-end Gibson for studio and stage
Skip if
- You are on a budget or a beginner
- You prefer a lighter or less expensive instrument
Verdict: The Tony Iommi SG Special is the ultimate left-handed electric in this list, offering top-tier Gibson tone and prestige.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yamaha Pacifica PAC112JL BL Left-Handed Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | Fender Squier Sonic Stratocaster Left-Handed | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 3 | Ibanez Gio GRX70QAL Left-Handed | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Jackson JS Series 6 String Dinky Arch Top JS22 DKA LH Electric Guitar | Electric | 6 | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 6 | Fender Left-Handed Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes | not stated |
| 8 | Martin 000-10E Retro Road Series Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Ibanez AEG70L Left-Handed Acoustic-Electric Guitar | Acoustic-electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Cordoba C5-CE Nylon String AE Guitar Lefty | Classical or nylon | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | Epiphone Casino Archtop Hollowbody Lefty | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | Guild Starfire I DC Semi-Hollowbody LH Cherry Red | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | Gretsch G5420LH Electromatic Classic Hollowbody Single-cut Left-handed | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Pyle 36-Inch Left-Handed Classical Acoustic Guitar Kit | Classical or nylon | not stated | 3/4 or 7/8 size | Yes | Yes | not stated |
| 15 | Gibson Tony Iommi SG Special Left-handed | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
We started with a pool of 39 left-handed guitar listings from the catalog, covering acoustic, electric, classical, bass, and kit models. We folded near-duplicate entries (such as two Ibanez GRX70QAL listings) into one pick. From the remaining pool, we selected 15 guitars that represent a range of body styles, construction types, and player levels, from a 3/4-size kids' classical kit to a Gibson Tony Iommi signature. We compared each guitar's stated specifications, as listed by the seller, including size, type, kit contents, and solid-top construction. We did not test any of these instruments; every specification is drawn from the pool data. The live price you see next to each pick is read from the store listing and may change.
What to look for
Body style and size
The body size and shape of a left-handed guitar affect its sound and how comfortable it is to hold. Dreadnoughts (D) are the most common acoustic shape, with a large body that projects strongly and produces boomy bass, as Martin describes. They are great for strumming with others. Auditorium (000) and Orchestra (OM) bodies are smaller and deliver a more balanced tone across all six strings, making them versatile for fingerpicking and recording. If you are a child or a smaller adult, look for a 3/4 or 7/8 size guitar; the Pyle and Ortega models in this list are sized that way. For electric guitars, solid bodies are the most common, but hollow and semi-hollow bodies offer different tonal characters, from the airy resonance of a fully hollow Casino to the controlled warmth of a semi-hollow Guild.
Nylon versus steel strings
The type of strings changes the feel and sound of a left-handed guitar. Nylon strings, found on classical guitars, are softer under the fingers and produce a warm, rounded tone, as Martin's string guide notes. They are often recommended for beginners because they are easier on the fingertips. Steel strings, used on most acoustic and electric guitars, are brighter and louder, but they also exert more tension and can be tougher on new players. If you plan to play rock, pop, or country on an acoustic, a steel-string dreadnought like the Fender CD-60S is a common choice. For classical, flamenco, or fingerstyle, a nylon-string like the Cordoba C5-CE offers that distinct timbre.
Electronics: do you need a pickup?
If you intend to play on stage or record through an amplifier, choose a guitar with electronics. Acoustic-electric models such as the Martin 000-10E or the Ibanez AEG70L include preamps with volume and tone controls, and some also feature built-in tuners and phase switches, as explained in Martin's electronics guide. The Martin E1 system, for instance, includes a chromatic tuner that mutes the output when engaged. Electric guitars always need an amplifier; some kits include a small practice amp, but higher-end models do not. If you are just playing at home, a simple acoustic without electronics may be all you need, saving money and avoiding battery changes.
Kits versus individual guitars
A left-handed guitar kit includes not only the guitar but also accessories such as an amplifier, tuner, strap, picks, cables, and sometimes a case or gig bag. For a complete beginner, a kit can be the simplest way to start, since you get everything you need in one purchase. The Donner DST-80 electric kit and the Pyle classical kit are examples. However, the included amps are often low-wattage and may not sound as good as a separate amp you pick yourself. If you already have an amp or other accessories, buying a guitar alone is more flexible and may let you invest more in the instrument itself. We included both kit and stand-alone options in this list so you can choose based on your needs.
Tremolo and bridge considerations
Some left-handed electric guitars come with a tremolo system, like a Floyd Rose or a Bigsby. A tremolo lets you bend pitch by moving the bridge with the whammy bar, which is useful for rock solos and surf music. However, a floating tremolo can make tuning less stable and require more setup when you change strings or alternate tunings. The Ibanez GRX70QAL and the Jackson JS22 include double-locking tremolos, which hold tuning well when used aggressively but need careful intonation setup. The Gretsch G5420LH has a Bigsby vibrato, which gives a subtle shimmer but also adds complexity. If you prefer a simple, reliable instrument, choose a fixed bridge like the one on the Squier Telecaster or the Yamaha Pacifica.
Brand and wood considerations
Established brands like Fender, Ibanez, Martin, and Gibson have years of experience building left-handed guitars, and they often offer more consistent quality and easier replacement parts. The wood used in a guitar influences tone and resonance. Solid spruce tops are prized for acoustic guitars because they vibrate more freely and improve with age, as Martin's wood guide explains. Sapele, mahogany, and rosewood are common back and side woods; mahogany and sapele offer clear midrange focus, while rosewood adds deeper bass and richer overtones. In this list, the Fender CD-60S and Martin 000-10E have solid spruce tops, while the Cordoba C5-CE has a solid cedar top, known for a warm, immediate response. If you are buying online, check the seller's specification for the specific wood used; some listings only mention the brand and model without detailing the tonewoods.
Questions
Do left-handed guitars cost more than right-handed ones?
Left-handed guitars are usually priced the same as their right-handed counterparts from the same brand and model, though they may be less widely available in stores. In this list, prices range from budget kits under $100 to premium signature models. The pool includes guitars across a wide price spectrum, and the live price shown on the listing reflects the current seller price. Since left-handed models are produced in smaller quantities, some dealers may charge a premium or have limited stock, but the MSRP is typically identical.
What is the difference between a 3/4-size and a full-size guitar?
A 3/4-size guitar has a shorter scale length and a smaller body, making it easier for children or players with small hands to reach frets and hold the instrument comfortably. A full-size guitar, often called 4/4, is the standard size for adult players. In this list, the Pyle 3/4-size classical kit and the Ortega 7/8-size model are examples of smaller guitars. If you are an adult, a full-size guitar like the Fender CD-60S or the Yamaha Pacifica is usually the appropriate choice. Trying a smaller guitar may be helpful for young players to build confidence.
Can I use a right-handed guitar left-handed by flipping it?
Technically you can flip a right-handed guitar and play it left-handed, but it is not recommended. The nut, bridge, and pickup positions are designed for the right-handed string order, so flipping the guitar reverses the string order and can make intonation and fingering awkward. Left-handed guitars are built with the nut and bridge slots reversed to match the left-handed player's picking hand. For best playability and tone, choose a true left-handed model like the ones in this list. Many budget kits even include left-handed versions for a modest price.
Do I need an amplifier for an acoustic-electric guitar?
An acoustic-electric guitar has a pickup and preamp, but it also works fine unplugged as a normal acoustic guitar. The electronics are only an addition, not a requirement. If you plan to play in a band, on stage, or through a PA system, plugging in gives you more volume and control. You do not need a dedicated amp; you can plug into a mixer or an acoustic amp. Some models, like the Martin 000-10E, include a tuner in the electronics, which is convenient. If you never need amplification, a standard acoustic guitar without electronics may be a simpler and cheaper choice.
Update history
- : First published.