10 Best Cheap Acoustic Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Fender Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar Bundle is an excellent choice for beginners on a budget. This guitar is built with durability in mind, featuring an all-laminate construction with a lindenwood top and mahogany back and sides, making it suitable for novice players. The full-bodied tone is achieved thanks to the scalloped 'X'-bracing and mahogany neck, which provide impressive sound quality for its price range.

The slim neck and dark-stained maple fingerboard offer comfortable playability and a stylish look, which can be appealing to new learners. Additionally, the bundle includes essential accessories like a gig bag, tuner, strap, strings, picks, and access to Fender Play Online Lessons and an Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, making it a convenient all-in-one package for those starting their musical journey.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The use of engineered wood and laminate materials might not provide the same rich tone as solid wood guitars, and the fixed bridge system may limit customization options. The neck material, made of nato, is durable but might not be as resonant as other higher-quality woods. Despite these limitations, this guitar offers a good balance of affordability, durability, and decent sound quality, making it a strong option for beginners.

The Fender FA-25 Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is an excellent option for beginners, providing a combination of affordability, quality, and playability. Its dreadnought body shape offers a rich, resonant bass tone that works well for genres like country, folk, and bluegrass. The guitar's top material is spruce wood, known for its bright, clear sound, while the back and sides are made from laminated basswood, which keeps the guitar lightweight and affordable without compromising too much on tone quality.

The C-shaped neck profile and walnut fingerboard make it easy and comfortable to play, particularly for those new to the instrument. Additionally, the sealed-gear tuning machines help maintain accurate tuning, which is crucial for beginners who might struggle with tuning stability. A notable advantage is the inclusion of a subscription to Fender Play for free lessons, which can significantly aid new players in developing their skills.

There are some trade-offs to consider. The all-laminate construction, while durable and cost-effective, might not produce as rich and complex a tone as guitars made with solid wood. Also, the absence of built-in electronics means you'll need external equipment if you wish to amplify the sound for performances. While the guitar includes a two-year warranty, its long-term durability might not match higher-end models. The Fender FA-25 is a solid, budget-friendly choice for beginners, offering good sound quality, ease of play, and valuable learning resources.

The Yamaha FG800J is a great choice for those who are new to playing the acoustic guitar. This model features a traditional Western dreadnought body shape, which is known for its large size and robust sound. The solid spruce top ensures a bright, balanced tone with good projection, making it ideal for a variety of playing styles.

The back and sides are made from nato and mahogany, which contribute to a warm, full-bodied sound and durability. This combination of materials typically found in more expensive guitars is a significant plus for beginners looking for quality sound without breaking the bank. The rosewood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable, aiding in easy playability.

The fixed bridge system, coupled with phosphor bronze strings, guarantees stable tuning and reliable performance. However, the larger dreadnought size might be slightly unwieldy for younger players or those with smaller frames. Additionally, while the guitar does not come with built-in electronics, its natural acoustic sound is rich and full, perfect for traditional playing. The Yamaha FG800J’s quality craftsmanship and durable materials ensure that it’s not just a starter guitar but one that can grow with the player.