5 Best 3/4 Acoustic Guitars (All Budgets)

• Find the best ¾ size acoustic guitar for you
• Options for all budgets
• Choose from steel or nylon string
• Also, check out our post on the best acoustic guitar strings

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¾ sized guitars are becoming an increasingly popular option for many reasons. Some players like their portability, and some choose them because they take up less space at home.

It might be you’re buying a guitar for a child, or perhaps you just have small hands and want something more suitable than a full-size guitar.

Whatever your reason, there are some great options for ¾ size acoustic guitars on the market, and regardless of your budget, you can get an instrument that plays and sounds great.

What Are The Best ¾ Size Acoustic Guitars?

If you’re looking for a great sounding ¾ size acoustic guitar, then the Taylor BT1 Baby is our pick.

The guitar has a great, natural tone, and while it is a little pricier than some other ¾ acoustic guitars on the market, it’s well worth the investment. 

For those looking to pick up a low-cost option, we’d recommend the Fender FA-15. This guitar won’t break the bank but will still get you the great-sounding tone Fender are synonymous with. 

If you’re looking for a nylon string option, then you can’t go wrong with the Yamaha CGS103AII 3/4-Scale Classical for warmth and clarity.

Our full list of the best ¾ acoustic guitars is as follows:

1. Taylor BT1 Baby (Our Pick)
2. Fender FA-15 (Best Budget)
3. Taylor Baby Mahogany BT2e (Best Premium)
4. Yamaha CGS103AII (Best Classical Style)
5. Luna Safari Peace Travel Guitar (Best Travel Guitar)

1. Taylor BT1 Baby (Our Pick)

Overview

When considering purchasing an acoustic guitar, the Taylor name is almost certain to crop up. The BT1 Baby packs a lot for a small guitar with a warm tone that isn’t too ‘boomy’.

The dreadnought-style body has a layered construction that helps withstand damage from temperature and humidity. 

Key Features:

• Solid spruce top
• Maple neck
• Layered walnut back
• 19 Frets

Pros 

• X Bracing
• Walnut back creates a fantastic tone

Cons

• Might be pricey for beginners

Review

The Taylor BT1 Baby is a great option for anyone looking to invest in a ¾ size acoustic guitar.

While it won’t break the bank, it is a bit pricier than other ¾ acoustic guitars on our list, but it is worth it in terms of tone and playability.

The dreadnought-style body provides significant volume, often lacking in smaller guitars, and the combination of woods provides a well-balanced tone.

The BT1 looks the business and could be mistaken for a much higher-end guitar were it not for the ¾ size. The model is promoted as being resistant to humidity and temperature change.

However, delving a little deeper shows some players experiencing problems with the body and neck cracking, so still try to be as careful as possible if you are on the move!

2. Fender FA-15 (Best Budget)

Overview

If you’re thinking of budget guitar brands, Fender might not be the first name that springs to mind. However, the FA-15 would undoubtedly fall into the budget price category.

This guitar offers a lot, as you’d expect from Fender, and shows you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a great sounding ¾ acoustic guitar.

Key Features:

• Nato Neck
• Laminated Agathis top with laminated Sapele back and sides
• Walnut Bridge
• Dreadnought Style

Pros

• Affordable
• Versatile tone

Cons

• May be quiet for some

Review

The Fender FA-15 is a brilliant choice for beginners and seasoned players alike. It’s also a solid option for those who play different genres and styles.

The big plus point is that the price is very low, but considering this is a Fender, you won’t be disappointed in its tone.

Corners have been cut with some materials such as Agathis (an alternative to spruce), but this keeps the costs down without reflecting too much on tone.

It doesn’t have the greatest projection, so keep that in mind, but if you’re looking for a reliable ¾ acoustic guitar that won’t require a bank loan, this is a great option.

3. Taylor Baby Mahogany BT2e (Best Premium)

Overview

Taylor’s Baby Mahogany BT2e is a premium option for ¾ size acoustic guitars, but even so, it comes in at a very reasonable price given what’s included.

If you’re after an electro-acoustic, this is one to consider as the guitar includes Taylor’s ES-B pickup system and an in-built tuner.

Key Features:

• Mahogany top
• Ebony fretboard and bridge
• In-built tuner with LED display

Pros

• Electro-Acoustic
• Warm tone
• Comfortable fretboard
• Left-handed version is available

Cons

• Expensive
• Some players may feel the sound is too ‘boomy’

Review

The second entry for Taylor on our list is the BT2e. It does represent a higher cost than the others on our list, but if you are looking for a premium ¾ guitar, this might be the one for you.

Despite its higher price, if you consider that a full-size Taylor guitar could set you back upwards of $1,000, it does become more attractive.

The guitar has a warm but punchy tone which suits blues-style players, and the option to plug in and play into a PA or amp will be extremely attractive to many players.

The guitar is also available in a left-handed version, which isn’t all that common to come across with a ¾ size electro-acoustic guitar.

Overall there isn’t much to complain about in terms of tone, although some players may find the warmth a little overpowering.

Die-hard Taylor fans may also find the tone doesn’t quite compete with a full-sized model. Personally, we have no gripes with the sound and feel it packs a lot for a small guitar!

4. Yamaha CGS103AII (Best Classical Guitar)

Overview

The Yamaha CGS103AII is a nylon string guitar that will appeal to experienced players, those who just prefer the nylon string tone, beginners, and children who are starting out.

Key Features:

• Spruce top
• Nato back, sides, and neck
• Classical style
• Nylon strings

Pros

• Great for beginners and children
• Affordable

Cons

• Classical style might not suit all players
• More suited to beginners than experienced players
• Some models don’t have fret dots

Review

The Yamaha CGS103AII makes it to our list for its affordability and great tone. The nylon strings mean the guitar is particularly suited to beginners or children (or anyone who prefers the sound of a classical guitar).

The downside is that this can be a little limiting (don’t expect to get the crisp sound of a strummed, steel string guitar), but for those starting on their journey or anyone wanting that signature nylon string sound, this is a great model to buy.

Of course, the guitar could be a little basic for more experienced players, and even those picking this up as a first guitar to learn on may grow out of it quickly.

But for the affordability and overall tone, this is one to consider if you’re a fan of nylon-strung guitars.

5. Luna Safari Peace Travel Guitar (Best Travel Guitar)

Overview

If you want to make a statement, the Luna Safari Peace Travel Guitar certainly does that!

While the Luna brand isn’t a household name, this guitar certainly offers a lot in terms of tone and clarity. Its unique design sets it apart in a busy crowd, and the price falls within the budget to medium range.

Key Features:

• Satin finished neck
• Mahogany body
• Spruce top
• Laser-etched ‘peace’ art

Pros

• Lightweight
• Great travel guitar
• Unique look

Cons

• Can have issues holding tuning
• The look may not be for everyone

Review

One of the key things many look for in a ¾ acoustic guitar is portability, and one look at the Luna Safari Peace Guitar is enough to tell you that this has the traveling musician in mind.

The original ‘peace’ style design looks great, and combined with the dreadnought style body, this guitar has a very warm tone despite its size and weight.

Some may find the tone lacking, and some users have complained that fret buzz is an issue. However, this guitar was more than worthy of a place on our list due to its uniqueness.

Sure, it may not be perfect, but this guitar has been designed to be transported and played with passion. If you’re after a high-end model to keep in pristine condition, it’s probably not for you.

If you’re looking for something with real character that can accompany you on your travels, we’d say go for it!

FAQs

Are ¾ Size Classical Guitars Easier to Learn On Than Steel String Guitars?

There are pros and cons to each! Typically a classical guitar is a ‘go-to’ option for learning because the nylon strings are easier on the player’s fingertips.

In contrast, a steel string guitar will naturally build up callouses quicker but may cause more discomfort.

Ultimately it’s down to your personal choice. You might prefer the sound of a steel string acoustic, so you’ll probably get more satisfaction from playing one.

If you’re just looking to dip your toe into guitar playing, a classical can be easier to start on and also a little cheaper.

Are ¾ Acoustic Guitars Just For Kids?

Years ago, you might have found that ¾ acoustic guitars were more geared towards children and, as such, were often lacking in sound quality.

Their quality has improved vastly, meaning ¾ size acoustic guitars are suitable for beginners, seasoned players, or anyone looking for a good travel guitar.

Can I Buy A ¾ Size Electric Guitar? 

Yes, you can. We put our pick of the best ¾ size electric guitars together right here. 

A ¾ size electric guitar is a great option if you’re looking for a space saver or an instrument you can travel with. 

Interested in buying a guitar? Check out our guide to the 9 Best Places To Buy Guitars Online (That You Can Trust)!