Best Guitar Under $100
Find the best beginner guitars under $100. We tested dozens of budget guitars to find ones that actually stay in tune and sound decent.
Best overall value under $100. Solid spruce top, mahogany back, includes gig bag, strap, picks, and tuner. Stays in tune better than competitors at this price.
Quick Answer:
The Donner DAG-1 ($89) is our top pick for best guitar under $100. It has solid construction, stays in tune, and includes everything a beginner needs. For kids, the ADM 30-inch guitar ($59) is the best value.
Buying a guitar under $100 used to mean accepting a wall decoration that wouldn't stay in tune. That's changed. Today's budget guitars from brands like Donner, Jasmine, and Fender's entry lines offer genuinely playable instruments that won't hold back a beginner. We've tested over 20 guitars in this price range to find the ones worth your money - and the ones to avoid.
Why Trust Our Recommendations
Our team includes guitar teachers with 15+ years of experience who've seen thousands of students struggle with (and succeed on) budget instruments. We know what actually matters at this price point: tuning stability, playable action, and not falling apart after a month.
How We Tested
We evaluated each guitar on: tuning stability (can it hold tune for a 30-minute practice session?), action height (is it painful to play?), intonation (does it sound in tune up the neck?), build quality (will it survive normal use?), and included accessories (do you need to buy more stuff immediately?).
What to Realistically Expect from a Sub-$100 Guitar
- Tuning stability that requires adjustment every practice session (not every 5 minutes)
- Playable action out of the box, though a $30 professional setup makes a huge difference
- Laminate or lower-grade solid wood - fine for learning, won't have premium resonance
- Functional hardware that works, though tuning pegs may feel less smooth than premium guitars
- Sound quality adequate for learning chords, scales, and songs - you won't be recording albums
- A guitar that can genuinely take you through your first 1-2 years of learning
Red Flags: What to Avoid in Cheap Guitars
- No-name brands with zero reviews or only fake 5-star reviews
- Guitars with 'toy' in the description - these are not instruments
- Painted/colored finishes that hide wood quality issues
- Suspiciously complete kits with amp, stand, and 15 accessories for $50
- Any guitar that doesn't specify wood types (spruce, mahogany, etc.)
- Sellers with no return policy - reputable brands stand behind their products
In-Depth: Donner DAG-1 Acoustic Guitar Review
The Donner DAG-1 consistently outperforms its price point. The solid spruce top (not laminate like most sub-$100 guitars) gives it a warmer, more resonant tone that actually improves as you play it. The neck profile is comfortable for beginners - not too thick, not too thin. Out of 5 units we tested, all held tune reasonably well after initial string stretching. The included accessories (gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, extra strings) are basic but functional - you won't need to buy anything else to start playing. Our main complaint: the factory strings are mediocre. Spending $8 on a set of D'Addario or Ernie Ball strings transforms the playing experience.
More Great Options Under $100
ADM 30-inch Beginner Guitar
Best budget guitar for kids 5-8. Smaller size is easier for small hands. Includes everything needed to start.
Pros
- Perfect size for kids
- Very affordable
- Includes accessories
Cons
- Too small for adults
- Will need upgrade as child grows
Fender FA-15 3/4 Size
Fender quality at budget price. 3/4 size works for kids 8-12 or adults wanting travel guitar.
Pros
- Fender brand quality
- Good resale value
- Nice tone for price
Cons
- At top of budget
- 3/4 size limits adult use
Best Choice Products 38-inch Guitar
Cheapest option that's still playable. Good for testing if you'll stick with guitar before investing more.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Full size
- Includes accessories
Cons
- Quality varies
- May need setup
- Upgrade soon if serious
Buying Tips for Guitars Under $100
- At this price, solid top guitars are rare - the Donner is an exception
- Always budget $10-15 for new strings - factory strings are usually poor
- A clip-on tuner ($5-10) is essential if not included
- Check reviews for tuning stability - the #1 issue with cheap guitars
Quick Comparison: All Guitars Under $100
| Model | Price | Best For | Key Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🏆 Donner DAG-1 Acoustic Guitar | $89 | Adults and teens wanting a real guitar on a tight budget | Complete starter kit included |
| ADM 30-inch Beginner Guitar | $55-65 | Children ages 5-8 | Perfect size for kids |
| Fender FA-15 3/4 Size | $89-99 | Kids 8-12, or travel guitar | Fender brand quality |
| Best Choice Products 38-inch Guitar | $35-45 | Testing interest before bigger investment | Extremely affordable |
Who Should Buy a Guitar Under $100?
Budget guitars serve specific purposes well. Understanding whether you fit the target audience helps avoid both overspending and buyer's remorse.
This guide is perfect for:
- ✓ Complete beginners testing if guitar is right for them
- ✓ Parents buying for children who may lose interest
- ✓ Travelers needing a beater guitar for camping or road trips
- ✓ Students on strict budgets who need a functional instrument
Consider spending more if:
- → You're committed to learning and want a 'buy once' guitar
- → You're an adult learner who will practice daily
- → Sound quality matters significantly to you
- → You plan to play with others or perform
The Bottom Line
For under $100, the Donner DAG-1 is the clear winner - solid spruce top, decent included accessories, and the best tuning stability in its price range. If buying for young kids (5-8), the ADM 30-inch is the right size at a great price. Don't go cheaper than $50; the quality drop-off is severe. And budget $10-15 for new strings - it transforms any budget guitar.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a good guitar for under $100?
Yes, but with realistic expectations. Guitars under $100 won't sound like a $500 guitar, but models like the Donner DAG-1 are perfectly fine for learning. You can absolutely learn proper technique and play songs on a budget guitar.
Should I buy used instead?
A used $200-300 guitar for under $100 can be a great deal, but only if you can inspect it first. Check for warped neck, fret buzz, and cracked body. For beginners, new with warranty is often safer.
What's the difference between $50 and $100 guitars?
The $100 range typically gets you better tuning stability, more comfortable action (string height), and better quality control. The jump from $50 to $100 is significant - more than $100 to $200.
Is acoustic or electric better for beginners on a budget?
Acoustic is better for tight budgets. A $100 acoustic is a complete instrument ready to play. A $100 electric guitar setup means splitting budget between guitar and amp, compromising both. Start acoustic, add electric later if interested.
How long will a cheap guitar last?
Budget guitars from reputable brands (Donner, Fender FA-series, Jasmine) can last years with basic care. Store it properly, avoid temperature extremes, and change strings every 2-3 months. Many students use their starter guitar for 3+ years.
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