Classical Guitar vs. Acoustic Guitar: Which One Should You Buy?

Written By Yenne Lee

(Just a heads-up—this post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.)

When choosing your first guitar, you might find yourself deciding between a classical guitar and an acoustic guitar. While both are popular options, they have distinct features that can shape your musical journey in unique ways. In this post, we'll explore the physical and stylistic differences between classical and acoustic guitars to help you make the best choice.

Notes:

  1. The classical guitar is technically an “acoustic” instrument as well (as opposed to “electric”).

  2. In some cases, the classical guitar is referred to as the “nylon-string guitar” and the acoustic guitar is referred to as the “steel-string guitar.”

  3. The classical guitar is also known as the “Spanish guitar.”


Common Features of Classical Guitar and Acoustic Guitar

Classical and acoustic guitars share some common features. Both have six strings and use the same tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). They also have similar materials, shapes, and sizes, making them visually alike at first glance. However, their differences in string type, neck width, and intended playing style set them apart.

Yamaha C40 Classical Guitar

Example of the classical guitar (Model: Yamaha C40)

Example of the acoustic guitar (Model: Yamaha FG830)

Differences between Classical Guitar and Acoustic Guitar

1. Tone

Classical guitar has a warmer, softer tone due to its use of nylon strings.

Acoustic guitar has a brighter, louder tone due to its use of steel strings.

2. Technique

Classical guitar is played with fingers and designed for solo playing, allowing you to play both melody and accompaniment simultaneously. Its wide neck facilitates fingerpicking, making intricate playing style easier. Additionally, classical guitar training often emphasizes music theory skills, including reading music using staff notation. (Classical guitarists do not use tabs.)

Acoustic guitar is often played with a pick. It is commonly used for chord playing to accompany vocals or other instruments in band settings, providing rhythm and harmony. Its narrower neck is optimized for chord playing. While it is primarily used for chords, the acoustic guitar can also be played melodically with riffs, licks, and fingerstyle techniques where the player combines melody, harmony, and even percussive effects.

3. Genres/Styles

Classical guitar is primarily used in classical music, bossa nova, jazz, and Latin styles. However, its versatility in solo playing allows you to perform almost any piece or song, regardless of genre.

Acoustic guitar is widely used across many contemporary genres, including rock, pop, folk, and country.

4. Use of Pickup (Connectivity to an Amp)

Classical guitars generally do not come with a pickup.

Many acoustic guitars come equipped with a pickup, allowing them to be connected to an amplifier. They are often referred to as “acoustic-electric guitars.” (Always check the guitar’s specs to confirm).


5. Playing Posture

Classical guitar is typically played while sitting in a chair. Most classical guitarists use a footrest or guitar support to maintain proper posture.

Acoustic guitar can be played sitting in a chair or standing up with a strap.


Examples of Classical Guitar Playing and Acoustic Guitar Playing

Classical Guitar

1. Recuerdos de la Alhambra (Francisco Tárrega) played by Ana Vidovic - Classical


2. Autumn Leaves (Joseph Kosma) played by Yenne Lee - Classical and jazz hybrid

3. Wave (Antonio Carlos Jobim) played by Yenne Lee - Bossa Nova


Acoustic Guitar

1. Ed Sheeran- Perfect


2. Simon & Garfunkel - Mrs. Robinson


3. Hozier- Cherry Wine

4. Tommy Emmanuel - Angelina (Fingerstyle)


Which one should you buy?

Get a classical guitar if…

…You enjoy a warm, soft sound and/or prefer playing solo.

…You like classical music, jazz, Bossa Nova, Latin, or flamenco.

…You want to learn how to play instrumental versions of your favorite songs from any genre, including pop.

…You want to become proficient at reading music using staff notation.

…You are buying a guitar for your child. The nylon strings are gentler on children’s fingers. (For ages 7 and below, I recommend a 1/2 size guitar; for ages 8-12, a 3/4 size guitar.)

Classical guitar recommendations for beginners:

(Prices as of February 2025)

(I recommend starting with a lower-end model priced around 150- 500 USD. Every guitar is slightly different in body size, neck width, etc. As you get better at playing the guitar, you will get a better sense of what you should look for in your next guitar.)

Get an acoustic guitar if…

…You want to accompany your singing or play in a band in the style of rock, folk, country, or pop music.

…You appreciate the bright, powerful sound of steel strings.

…You want to learn fingerstyle playing.

…You plan to teach yourself. There are more online resources available for acoustic guitar players.

Acoustic guitar recommendations for beginners:

(Prices as of February 2025)

Final Thoughts

Since classical and acoustic guitars share the same tuning, transitioning between them is not difficult. If you can play one, you can easily learn to play the other. If you are still unsure which guitar to buy, go with the sound you like the best. The right sound will inspire you to practice more, helping you learn faster. As you improve and discover the type of music you enjoy playing the most, you can always add the other type of guitar (or even an electric guitar) to your collection.

Lastly, I highly recommend starting your guitar journey with a teacher even if it’s just for the first few weeks. The habits you form in the beginning will significantly impact your overall learning experience. By learning proper form, technique, and practice methods, you’ll enjoy playing more and set yourself on a path to becoming a better musician. Please reach out to us if you are interested in our online beginner group guitar lessons by clicking here!

Yenne Lee