Here I have researched and played a variety of affordable acoustic guitars and narrowed it down to the best acoustic guitars under $300 that best suit your demands and budget.
You’ve decided you want to learn how to play the acoustic guitar. Congratulations! Not only is the acoustic guitar a blast to play, but it’s also one of the best ways to improve your musical skills.
But with so many different acoustic guitars and prices ranging from $100 to $1000, how do you know which one is right for you? Do you believe that an expensive acoustic guitar is always the best? Or will a cheap one do the best?
For the record, I’m going to admit right off the bat that I’m was a total beginner on this particular instrument. I did a lot of reading because I found myself in the same predicament as you: I didn’t want to spend too much money in case I didn’t like playing guitar after all, but I also didn’t want to buy a guitar that was so poorly made that I’d have to replace it within a few months if I did.
See also: Popular Electric and Acoustic Guitar Hashtags in 2023
How does this guide work?
First, we’ll go over some of the greatest acoustic guitars for under $300 that are suitable for players of any skill level, and then we’ll go over some tips for making the right purchase.
Later, we’ll go over some of the most crucial factors to think about while shopping for an acoustic guitar. Then we’ll recommend Let’s get going!
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Fun fact: Do you know that an acoustic guitar doesn’t require electricity to play?
1. Yamaha FG830
Under $300, you just cannot beat a Yamaha acoustic!
- Solid sitka spruce top
- Nato back & sides
The Yamaha FG830 Solid Top Acoustic Guitar under 300 is an excellent value for money. With spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and a nato wood neck, this guitar sounds great, looks great and is ideal for a beginner. There is no denying the guitar’s ability to attract female attention.
Obviously thisis large size so bear in mind if you have small hands. It also has a Rosewood bridge and fingerboard. The Diecast tuners keep it in tune, and it also has an adjustable truss rod.
Build quality
The FG800 seems to have better build quality and design than its cheaper counterparts. The top is made of spruce, the back and sides are made of rosewood, and the neck is made of nato wood. The fretboard is made of rosewood, and the strings are made of steel. The guitar bridge system is fixed, and the guitar has an adjustable truss rod.
How does it feel?
So how does this guitar feel? Right off the bat, you’ll notice the weight. It’s not too heavy, but it’s not light either. This gives it a nice, solid feel in your hands. And the tobacco sunburst finish is simply beautiful.
But it’s not just about looks. The spruce top provides a warm, rich sound that is perfect for both practice and performance. The rosewood back and sides add depth and clarity, while the nato wood neck ensures that your playing experience is smooth and comfortable.
How does it sound?
Now, let’s dive into how this baby sounds. After playing it for a few hours, you’ll be amazed at how loud the Yamaha FG830 is even unplugged. Its deep lows, rich mids, and airy highs will provide you with a full range of tones that can accommodate any kind of music you may want to play.
You’ll get lush warmth thanks to the solid Sitka Spruce top combined with the Rosewood back and sides. Plus, if you have light fingers and prefer a mellower sound, then this guitar won’t disappoint in that area either. And once again we have to mention the truss rod – it helps adjust the action and intonation so that you can get the most out of your guitar.
Pros and Cons
It’s time to weigh the pros and cons of the Yamaha FG830. Here’s a run-down of what you can expect:
Pros
- – Steel strings for clear sound & articulate tone.
- – Rosewood bridge for stability & longevity.
- – Adjustable truss rod for controlling neck relief.
- – Solid Sitka Spruce top is great at providing robust and bright sound.
- – Rosewood back & sides provide warmth, richness, resonance, and sustain.
- – Diecast tuners help keep tuning stable over time.
Cons:
- – Not suitable for electric guitar playing as there are no pickups installed on this acoustic model.
- – Unfortunately, the guitar’s movement at the nut makes it nearly unplayable.
- – The neck might be too slim for players with large hands making it uncomfortable to play.
Final thoughts
I was a little worried about Yamaha FG830 arriving undamaged, but thankfully everything was perfect. Shipped in a lightweight but well-protected corrugated cardboard box clearly identifying the contents as a guitar. All in all, this acoustic guitar under $300 is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable guitar with superior sound quality.
Recommended: The Best Wide Neck Electric Guitars for Fat Fingers 2023 Review
2. Bristol by Blueridge
Quality performance while still being affordable under 300
- Spruce top with scalloped braces provides a bright, full range sound
- Beautiful mahogany back and sides for robust volume and responsive tone
I was very pleased with the quality for the money. It looks like as nice a guitar as any I’ve seen. The Bristol by Blueridge is a 6-string acoustic guitar is just under $300 that is perfect for the beginner or intermediate player. It has a lovely mahogany back and sides, which contribute to its robust volume and responsive tone. The guitar arrives in a triangular box, simply laid inside wrapped in a thin layer of styrofoam, in a plastic bag. You’d have to spend at least twice as much to find something better.
Build quality
The sleek mahogany neck is swift, stable, and durable. Smooth and accurate chrome-plated 14:1 die-cast machine heads keep you in tune. The top and body are spruce/mahogany. Rosewood fretboards and mahogany backs and necks. Phosphor bronze strings.
How does it feel?
When you hold the Bristol acoustic guitar in your hands, you’ll feel the quality of the materials and construction. With beautiful mahogany back and sides, the guitar produces robust volume and a responsive tone. The slim mahogany neck offers fast, easy action and inherently long-lasting stability. And for always keeping you in tune, the guitar has chrome-plated 14:1 die-cast machine heads.
You’ll also appreciate the top material type of spruce and body material of spruce and mahogany. This gives the guitar a look as well as a truly exceptional sound. Plus, the fretboard material type of rosewood and string material type of phosphor bronze complete the package for an acoustic guitar that sounds great and will last for years to come.
How does it sound?
You may be wondering how the Bristol by Blueridge 6 String Acoustic Guitar, Right Handed (BD-16) sounds. The combination of spruce wood and mahogany wood in the top and body gives it a bright tone that lends itself to almost any genre. It’s capable of producing robust volume with a responsive tone and great sustain.
The chrome-plated 14:1 die-cast machine heads are smooth and precise, keeping you in tune no matter what. The slim mahogany neck makes it easy to play complex chords as well as quick runs up and down the fretboard with its fast action. And the rosewood fretboard adds warmth to its tone.
Pros and Cons
When it comes to the pros and cons of the Bristol by Blueridge 6 String Acoustic Guitar, Right Handed (BD-16), there are a few key points that you should know. Some of the pros include:
- – The guitar produces a great sound with clear, crisp tones and plenty of volumes. The deep sound and resonance is so beautiful.
- – Its slim mahogany neck and chrome-plated 14:1 die-cast machine heads offer fast, easy action and inherently long-lasting stability.
- – The rosewood fretboard helps to ensure clarity when playing chords and notes.
As for the cons, they are few but it’s important to be aware of them before making a purchase:
- – The guitar can be difficult to tune due to its complex bridge.
- – If you don’t have prior experience, the setup can be a daunting task.
- – The string material is prone to breakage in particularly hot or humid climates.
Final thoughts
Overall, Bristol by Blueridge guitar offers quality performance while still being affordable acoustic guitar under 300, making it an excellent choice for beginner or expert players alike.
3. Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar
The Perfect First Guitar under $300
- Features a Spruce Top
- Laminated Nato back & sides.
You want a great sounding acoustic for less money than a crappy video game? Buy this thing! The Jasmine S-35 is a great-looking dreadnought guitar with a big, bold sound and excellent features that represent exceptional value. It features a spruce top with laminated nato back and sides, and a satin finish. The guitar also comes with chrome-covered tuning machines and a rosewood fretboard.
This guitar also has the capability to sound like a $800 guitar. If you’re just beginning out, I recommend having the action adjusted at a local guitar store. For around $20, you may have a guitar that plays beautifully and promotes your musical development.
Build quality
The Jasmine S35 acoustic guitar is a great choice for beginner guitarists on a tight budget. This gutar features a spruce top and nato back and sides, a rosewood fretboard, and chrome-covered tuning machines. All this just under $100! This guitar is just perfect value for money. If you’re looking for a high-quality instrument under a tight budget, pick this baby!
How does it feel?
The Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar is surprisingly light and classy in your hands. It’s not as weighty as you’d anticipate from a guitar of this size. This makes it excellent for novices who may lack the strength to hold a heavier guitar for extended periods of time.
The natural color is also extremely lovely and lends the guitar a rustic appearance that some may find appealing. The spruce top adds a pleasant touch and enhances the guitar’s sound. Nato wood, a type of hardwood noted for its toughness, is used for the body and neck. This means that the Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar can withstand a hammering while still performing admirably.
Many people have complained that the “action is too high,” yet lowering it is a simple matter. The fretboard’s rosewood construction impressed me greatly because that material is so reliable in guitars. And the silky finish makes it a breeze to pick up and play. Bronze strings produce a rich, full sound that is perfect for acoustic guitars.
How does it sound?
Once you’ve got it out of the box, it’s time to test it out – and you won’t be disappointed. With a tonal range that’s surprisingly full and rich, the Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar produces some classic acoustic sounds. If you are not new, or new but handy with little repairs and such, go on you-tube and type in “how to set up your new guitar” A great video of how to set it up.
This is due to its Spruce top, which provides a bright, clear tone with plenty of sparkles. The Nato body works to give a warm tone whilst the laminated Nato back and sides add depth and resonance to your sound. Plus, its Rosewood fretboard helps to create higher frequencies which combine to give your music that unmistakable acoustic feel.
Pros and Cons
With great guitar like Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar comes both pros and cons. To give you a better idea of what you can expect from this guitar, here are some bullet points:
Pros
- Spruce top provides excellent resonance
- Laminated nato back and sides make the guitar more durable
- Chrome-covered tuning machines make it easy to tune
- Rosewood fretboard looks beautiful
- The satin finish gives a smooth feel
Cons
- Nato wood may not produce as much resonance as solid wood
- Bronze strings tend to wear out faster than steel strings
- Fixed bridge requires more effort when stringing
- Right-handed orientation may not be suitable for all players
Final thoughts
When brought together, all these elements provide an overall balanced sound with warmth and depth. Whether it’s for strumming or fingerpicking, the Jasmine S35 Acoustic Guitar has your needs covered under $300 budget – producing everything from bluesy riffs to classic country licks.
Must read: Top 09 Best Electric Guitars with Whammy bar Under Budget 2023
4. Jasmine S34C NEX Acoustic Guitar
Best for small hands!
- The Jasmine S-34C is a stylish grand orchestra-style guitar with a rich, well-balanced sound and a graceful Venetian-style cutaway
- Perfect for any player seeking a well-built and easy-playing guitar, the S-34C features a select spruce top with Jasmine’s Advanced “X” Bracing, and sapele back and sides
I was looking for the cheapest acoustic guitar but didn’t knew there was a classical version and the steel string guitar. The laminate spruce top of this guitar may not be as sturdy as a solid spruce top but it still produces a fantastic tone. Sapele is tone-enhancing wood which is used on guitar’s back and sides. The fretboard is made of rosewood and it has 20 frets.
The guitar also has a synthetic bone nut and saddle. I like it because it is more durable than plastic and help to give the guitar a clear sound. It’s also equipped with a combination pickup system that gives you both acoustic and electric tones. Finally it has an included gig bag for easy transport.
Build quality
The string material type for the Jasmine S34C NEX Acoustic Guitar is steel, which is great because it provides a consistent tone and long-lasting performance. You don’t have to worry about re-stringing or changing out your strings as often, and they are much easier to maintain.
The steel strings also provide a brighter tone that you can hear when you strum chords or individual notes. It has more clarity and definition, especially when compared to nylon strings which have a warmer sound.
The intonation on the guitar is also spot on thanks to its nickel-wound construction. This helps with accuracy when you’re playing chords, and makes it easier to adjust the tuning of individual strings if needed. All in all, the steel strings provide great sound quality without needing to be replaced nearly as often as other materials.
How does it feel?
I know this guitar is not a high end but for me it feels like one. It was super easy to tune with the included tuner and the gig bag has two strap so you can carry it on your back. The picks are beautiful with the fender brand same as the extra strings.
The dreadnought body style is comfortable and fits well against your chest and the synthetic bone nut and saddle make for a smooth playing experience. You love the feel of this guitar in your hands, and you can’t wait to play it onstage for your next gig.
How does it sound?
When you strum the Jasmine S34C NEX acoustic guitar, the sound is simply beautiful and rich. It’s well balanced guitar within $300 with a bright and clear tone that’s perfect for playing any genre of music. I have small hands and short arms, but it’s comfortable to hold and play.
The natural color of the spruce top is beautiful, and the rosewood fingerboard and bridge are a great match. The nato back and sides create a warm and mellow sound that’s great for blues and country music. The mahogany neck adds some depth to the overall sound, making it perfect for players who want an all-around guitar that can handle any type of music.
Pros and Cons
Overall, the Jasmine S34C NEX Acoustic Guitar has some great features to offer. To make it easier for you to decide if this is the right guitar for you, here are some of its pros and cons:
Pros:
- – Dreadnought’s body style delivers a bright, balanced sound with plenty of projection
- – Laminate Spruce top provides a warm resonance and full harmonic response
- – Sapele back and sides to add projection and sustain
- – Rosewood Fingerboard adds a smooth feel while playing
- – Synthetic bone nut and saddle provide improved tuning stability and sustain
- – Right-Hand Orientation is perfect for beginners taking lessons
- Cons:
- – Not suitable for left-handed players as it is only available as a right-handed model
- – Laminate Spruce top limits resonance compared to solid spruce top guitars
Final thoughts
This guitar is also fitted with a synthetic bone nut and saddle, which helps to keep the tone clear and bright. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another acoustic guitar in $300 range that sounds as good as the Jasmine S34C NEX.
5. Gretsch Acoustic-Electric Guitar
Fun guitar that feels more like an electric!
- The Jasmine S-34C is a stylish grand orchestra-style guitar with a rich, well-balanced sound and a graceful Venetian-style cutaway
- Perfect for any player seeking a well-built and easy-playing guitar, the S-34C features a select spruce top with Jasmine’s Advanced “X” Bracing, and sapele back and sides
The Gretsch 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is perfect for the guitar enthusiast. It has a basswood body with X-bracing that produces rich, full sound. The Gretsch Deltoluxe soundhole pickup with gold/white rosette rings ensures that you will be heard when performing. The 1950s-style vintage open-gear die-cast tuning machines and vintage end-pin strap buttons add a touch of nostalgia.
Build quality
The top material type is basswood, the body material is basswood, the back material type is nato wood, the neck material type is nato wood, the fretboard material type is walnut wood, the guitar pickup configuration is a single pickup, and the string material type is phosphor bronze.
How does it feel?
When you pick it up, the Gretsch 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar feels solid and sturdy in your hands. The basswood body with X-bracing gives it a comfortable weight, and the 1950s-style vintage open-gear die-cast tuning machines and vintage end-pin strap buttons add to the old-school vibe.
The Smokestack Black finish is gorgeous, with a cool matte texture that’s reminiscent of a worn leather jacket. The Gretsch Deltoluxe soundhole pickup with gold/white rosette rings gives your acoustic tone a bit of extra sparkle, and the phosphor bronze strings provide a warm, mellow sound.
How does it sound?
So, how does this Gretsch 6-String acoustic-electric guitar sound? Put simply: amazing. It has a robust, bright tone that makes it an exceptionally versatile instrument. In addition, its basswood body, with X-bracing, gives it an incredibly balanced sound.
When plugged in, the Gretsch Deltoluxe soundhole pickup provides a wide range of tones and dynamics that are sure to please any musician. The Gold/White rosette rings add to the vintage charm of this guitar and make it stand out from the crowd. Furthermore, the 1950s-style vintage open-gear die-cast tuning machines and vintage end-pin strap buttons combine to give this instrument a classic look and feel.
This guitar looks as good as it sounds and is sure to be an eye-catching addition to any musician’s collection.
Pros and Cons
So, what can you expect from the Gretsch 6 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar? Let’s look at the pros and cons of this instrument:
One of the biggest pros of this guitar is its sound. The sound is full, balanced, and rich. You can accurately play any chords you want with ease – thanks to the classic gold/white rosette rings! The vintage open-gear die-cast tuning machines add to its beautiful sound. On top of all that, it has a great pickup so you can plug it in and play electric guitars along with it.
The only downside to this guitar is its price tag. Some users have also reported damage upon delivery.
Final thoughts
Gretsch 6-String acoustic guitar is a great purchase under $300, but if you’re looking for a quality acoustic-electric guitar that sounds great and lasts for a long time, then it’s worth every penny.
See also: 11 Best Guitars for Large Hands (2023 Guide)
That concludes our top 05 best acoustic guitars under $300. Before placing your order for your first online guitar, read on for some helpful tips and suggestions.
5 Tips to Buy An Acoustic Guitar (Buying Guide)
1. What to Look for When Buying an Acoustic Guitar?
Are you looking for a classical guitar or something with a more modern look? Do you want something smaller and more portable, or something for large hands? From low-action guitars to lightweight guitars, start by deciding what type of guitar you like the most because .
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, consider the price point. How much are you comfortable spending? Keep in mind that you get what you pay for, so it’s important to find something that’s both affordable and high quality.
2. The Different Types of Acoustic Guitars
First, we’ll go over the various acoustic guitars available. The Dreadnought is the most common type; it was named after the largest battleship in the Royal Navy. Whether strumming or finger-picking, the guitar’s powerful sound and body make it versatile.
If you’re looking for a small-sized guitar, you might want to consider the concert or grand auditorium guitars. They’re still bigger than the typical standard acoustic guitar, but they offer a balanced sound that works well for both finger-picking and strumming.
Finally, there’s the folk or parlor guitar. It’s the smallest of the bunch, and it’s designed for fingerstyle playing.
3. What Size Acoustic Guitar Is Right for You?
When it comes to finding the right acoustic guitar size, there are a few things to consider.
The first and foremost step is to decide what musical genre you love. I like ragge, BTW! A smaller, more manageable guitar is everything you need to start strumming along to your favorite songs. To play classical or finger-style guitar, though, you’ll need a larger instrument with more room for your fingers.
Secondly, consider your body size. I am 6 feet so I always prefer large guitars. If you’re petite, you’ll want a guitar that’s sized appropriately for your body. Conversely, if you’re tall or have a large frame, you may prefer a guitar with a longer scale length and wider neck.
Lastly – think about how much experience you have. I’m a professional guitarist who plays both acoustic and electric guitars. I always recommend Beginners to start with an acoustic guitar that is easy to play and doesn’t have too many fancy features, in my opinion. As your talents grow, you can upgrade to a more advanced model.
4. Choosing the Right Strings and Tuning Pegs
Once you know what type of guitar you like the most, it’s time to get the right strings and tuning pegs. It’s like get ready for a battle! There are many choices on the market, such as nylon, steel, and even silk strings. Just keep in mind that the strings should typically should last for a good time.
The tuning pegs play an important role in the way your guitar sounds. Look for pegs made from a high-quality material like nickel or chromium. They will ensure that your guitar stays tuned for a longer period. The best way to determine if a peg is of the right quality is by comparing several brands and models.
Lastly, make sure you check with your local music store for any recommendations on strings and tuning pegs as they might know better than you when it comes to finding the right ones for your acoustic guitar. Taking their advice on board could save you a lot of time and money in the long run!
5. Different Shapes, Finishes, and Wood Types
When you’re choosing an acoustic guitar, there’s a lot more to consider than just sound quality. Not only will a guitar’s shape, finish, and wood type affect the way it looks, but it can also make a big difference to the way it sounds.
The shape of a guitar is incredibly important because it affects the way that you play. For example, smaller guitars tend to be easier to play due to their smaller size and body shape. They also provide a clear tone with less projection than larger guitars. On the other hand, if you prefer a fuller sound with more projection, then you should consider purchasing one of the larger shapes like a dreadnought or jumbo.
The wood type and finish of an acoustic guitar can also affect its sound. After decades of research and experimentation, companies have developed certain combinations of woods that work best for different styles of playing. As for the finish, this doesn’t just affect how your guitar looks – it can affect also its tone. Look for guitars with thin finishes if you want a bright tone and warm resonance or thicker finishes if you prefer your tones crisper and more focused.
Conclusion
I hope now you have got some knowledge on buying guitars but know which acoustic guitar under $300 would be your life partner. In the end, the best guitar is the one that sounds good to you and feels comfortable to play. There is no single “right” guitar, so trust your instincts and go with the one that you feel drawn to.