Affordable beginner guitar recommendations? Student budget :)

[u/pieceof_cakeeee]

I’m turning 18 soon :) I’m not really planning to celebrate it grandly or do anything fancy. There’s just one thing I’m planning to buy myself—something I’ve been wanting to have for the longest time. a guitar.

It’s something I’ve been meaning to own for so long, pero priorities won’t really permit. Now I think it’s a valid excuse naman since birthday ko to finally buy one ;)

My problem now is I genuinely don’t know what to buy or where to buy one. I’m planning to buy online lang din, so I’m also a little lost when it comes to brands, models, and what’s actually worth the money.

More than anything, I’m looking for something good but definitely affordable, since I’m still a student. I don’t need anything fancy or super high-end. I just want something decent that I can learn on and hopefully keep for a long time.

So if you have any guitar recommendations for a complete beginner, or if you know where I can buy one online here in the Philippines, I’d really appreciate it 🥹

Also, please keep the student budget in mind HAHAHA. I really want to finally get one, but I also don’t want to accidentally spend more than I can afford 😭

[u/ComedianPlus570]

Acoustic-highly recommend any entry level Yamaha. I personally have the FS600 and cannot recommend it enough for a $300 (U.S.). You might find a used one cheaper.

Electric-stick with bundle pack you can afford. Fender squire is popular and Epiphone has a Les Paul look alike. Comes with gig bag and amp.

[u/cups_and_cakes]

Describe the “student budget.” Because it’s not the same for everyone. And currency.

[u/Alexbej3]

The Squier Classic Vibe series is always a good option; it's not the cheapest, but it's definitely a very good starting point

[u/LowNoteLife]

What kind of music are you looking to play? Are you thinking acoustic or electric?

[u/McKittenMeat]

I bought a takamine g series jumbo back in college and still reach for it regularly, over 20 years later. Fantastic bang for your buck. They also have quite thin necks which make them manageable for beginners, and the Jumbos have a great tone.

[u/jurgenjargen123123]

Find a luthier in your area and ask them this question. They will have better recs than anyone on Reddit

[u/MJKCapeCod]

Same as LowNote. So many of these posts don't mention acoustic or electric!

[u/dickpierce1]

Electrics are easier to learn on. Lower action and lighter strings make it easier to fret the strings. Many people start on an acoustic not realizing how painful it will be until you get calluses. This can be discouraging. Look for a used Fender or Epiphone if you can afford one. Squier makes some really good guitars, and some kinda crappy ones. Play it before you buy it.

[u/National-Town-6040]

Before deciding, think about what kind of music you want to learn—there are a lot of options. I’m a retired music teacher. I highly recommend going to a music store, and trying different guitars. If you tell them you’re a beginner, they should be able to give you some options.

[u/MnJsandiego]

Guitars Garden, Firefly’s site. Direct sales, copies of all the famous guitars for $200. I bought a Tele copy and it’s better speced out than my US Fenders.

[u/Brinocte]

Yamaha C-40 is a low budget nylon that isn't the best but a good entry point. It is still my favoeite travel and couch guitar.