Types of Guitars – Which Guitar Is Right for You?

Thinking about learning guitar but not sure which kind to get? There are several different types of guitars, and each has its own feel, sound and strengths. This guide walks through the most common ones so you can find the guitar that fits you and the music you love.

Acoustic guitar (steel-string)

The steel-string acoustic is the classic singalong guitar you hear in pop, folk, country and singer-songwriter music. The steel strings give a bright, full and powerful sound that carries well without an amplifier. It's a popular first choice for beginners who want to sing and accompany themselves.

• Sound: bright, clear and powerful
• Great for: pop, folk, country, accompaniment and singing
• Good to know: steel strings can feel hard on the fingertips at first

Classical guitar (nylon-string)

The classical guitar has nylon strings, a wider neck and a softer, warmer tone. The nylon strings are gentler on your fingertips, which makes it a comfortable choice for many children and beginners. It's used in classical, flamenco and Latin music, but it's also perfect for learning the basics in any style.

• Sound: soft and warm
• Great for: classical, flamenco, Latin and beginners
• Good to know: wider neck and gentler strings

Electric guitar

The electric guitar has a thinner body and needs an amplifier to be heard properly. The strings usually sit lower and are easier to press down, which many players find comfortable. With different effects and settings you can get everything from clean, clear tones to powerful distortion – perfect for rock, blues, metal and funk.

• Sound: versatile – from clean to distorted
• Great for: rock, blues, metal, funk and pop
• Good to know: needs an amplifier (and a cable and a pick)

Bass guitar

The bass guitar is the guitar's bigger relative, with four thicker strings and a longer neck. It plays the deep low notes that tie together the rhythm and harmony in a band. If you love groove and being the heartbeat of the band, bass might be exactly right for you – and bassists are always in demand.

• Sound: deep and rhythmic
• Great for: every band genre – rock, pop, funk, jazz
• Good to know: read more about our bass guitar lessons in Helsinki

Which guitar is right for you?

There's no single right answer – the best choice depends on the music you love and how the guitar feels in your hands. A few simple guidelines:

• Want to sing and accompany yourself? Start with an acoustic guitar.
• A child or complete beginner? A classical nylon-string guitar is gentle and easy to start on.
• Dreaming of rock, blues or metal? The electric guitar is the way to go.
• Love groove and rhythm? Try the bass.

Once you've settled on a type, the next step is finding a good one – try a few in a shop and pay attention to how each guitar feels in your hands before you buy.

And the best way to find out what suits you? Playing. With us you can start with guitar lessons in Helsinki – for both children and adults, at all levels. If you have questions about which guitar fits you, just get in touch and we'll help you on your way.