Best Guitar for 10 Year Olds
The best guitar for a 10 year old beginner is the Yamaha FG800J (under $300), a full-size acoustic that most 10-year-olds 4'6" and taller can handle; smaller kids should stay with a 3/4 size such as the Yamaha JR1 (under $200). The best electric guitar for a 10 year old is the Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 (under $300), paired with a small practice amp.
Quick Answer:
The best guitar for a 10-year-old is the Yamaha FG800J (under $300) for acoustic - a full-size solid-top guitar most kids this age can handle. For electric, the Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 (under $300) is the top pick. Smaller 10-year-olds should stay with 3/4 size, where the Yamaha JR1 (under $200) is still the best option.
Guitar Size for 10 Year Olds
Recommended Size
3/4 or Full size
Best Type
Any
Price Range
Under $500
Child Height: 4'6" - 5' (137-152 cm)
Scale Length: ~24-25 inches for full-size
Top Picks at a Glance
| Pick | Budget | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Yamaha FG800J Full-Size Acoustic | Under $300 | Average-to-tall 10-year-olds serious about acoustic |
| Epiphone Les Paul 100 (E1) Electric | Under $300 | Kids motivated by rock and pop |
| Yamaha JR1 3/4-Size Acoustic | Under $200 | Smaller 10-year-olds not ready for full size |
Best Guitar Options for 10 Year Olds
Yamaha FG800J Full-Size Acoustic
The updated version of the legendary FG800: solid spruce top, teacher-approved build, and a tone that improves as the wood ages.
Pros
- Solid spruce top
- Teacher standard
- Holds value
Cons
- Full size - check your child's height
- No gig bag included
Epiphone Les Paul 100 (E1) Electric
A real Les Paul at a starter price. Lighter strings are easier on young fingers, and headphone-capable amps keep practice quiet.
Pros
- Real Les Paul design
- Easier on fingers than acoustic
- Huge cool factor
Cons
- Needs an amp and cable
- More gear to manage
Yamaha JR1 3/4-Size Acoustic
The 3/4-size pick for smaller 10-year-olds: a 21-inch scale version of Yamaha's FG, with the same build quality in a body that fits under 4'6".
Pros
- Right size for kids under 4'6"
- Yamaha build quality
- Light and easy to carry
Cons
- Outgrown by the teens
- No kit accessories
Tips for Buying a Guitar for Your 10 Year Old
- Try both 3/4 and full-size guitars to see which feels more comfortable
- At this age, the guitar they're excited about is the guitar they'll practice
- Consider their favorite music when choosing acoustic vs electric
- This is a good age for more serious investment if they're committed
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Shopping for a different age? See the best guitar for 8 year olds, the best guitar for 7 year olds and the best guitar for 6 year olds. Every size is explained in our guitar size chart, and the best guitars under $200 covers full-size picks for kids who are ready.
Related Guides
Sources
- Standard guitar sizing by height - full size from about 4'6"; 3/4 size below that
- Yamaha and Epiphone product specifications - scale length, top wood and body size
- Amazon.com product listings - stock and budget tiers checked in 2026 through the Amazon Creators API; prices change often
Frequently Asked Questions
What guitar should a 10 year old beginner start with, acoustic or electric?
Acoustic if they are unsure or want to sing along, because it is a complete instrument with nothing else to buy. Electric if rock or pop is what motivates them: lighter strings are easier on fingers and a headphone-capable practice amp keeps practice quiet. Either way, choose the guitar they are excited about; at 10, excitement predicts practice better than anything else.
What size guitar for a 10 year old?
Most 10-year-olds (about 4'6" to 5' tall) fit a full-size guitar; a smaller 10 year old is more comfortable on a 3/4 size such as the Yamaha JR1 (under $200). The test: with the guitar on the right thigh, the child should reach the first fret without stretching and strum over the soundhole without hunching.
Should a 10 year old use a full size guitar?
Many 10-year-olds can use a full-size guitar, especially if they're of average height or taller. The key is comfort - if they can reach around the body and fret notes without strain, full-size works.
What's the best first electric guitar for a 10 year old?
The Epiphone Les Paul 100 E1 (under $300) is our top pick for a 10 year old: a real Les Paul body with lighter strings than an acoustic. The Squier Mini Stratocaster (under $200) suits smaller kids and lighter budgets. Stratocasters are lighter and more versatile; Les Pauls have a thicker rock sound. Let your child's musical taste guide the choice.
How much should I spend on a guitar for a 10 year old?
For a committed 10-year-old, $150-$300 gets an instrument that will last through the teenage years. Avoid going too cheap - poor quality guitars are harder to play and can discourage practice.
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