Best Guitar for 8 Year Olds

Quick Answer:

The best guitar for an 8-year-old is typically a 3/4 size acoustic or electric guitar. Most 8-year-olds have the hand size and coordination to handle steel strings and can choose between acoustic and electric based on preference.

Guitar Size for 8 Year Olds

Recommended Size

3/4 size

Best Type

Acoustic, Classical, or Electric

Price Range

$80-$200

Child Height: 4'3" - 4'9" (130-145 cm)

Scale Length: ~23 inches

Best Guitar Options for 8 Year Olds

Top Pick

Donner DAG-1C 3/4 Acoustic Bundle

$70-$100

A complete bundle with guitar, bag, tuner, strap, and picks. Everything needed to start playing.

Best for: Value-conscious families

Pros

Complete bundle
Great value
Everything included
Good beginner quality

Cons

May need minor setup
Generic brand

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Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric

$150-$200

A real Fender Stratocaster, sized for kids. Perfect for 8-year-olds who dream of playing electric guitar.

Best for: Kids who want electric guitar

Pros

Real Fender brand
Authentic Strat tone
Sized for kids
Very cool

Cons

Needs amp (sold separately)
Electric setup needed

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Tips for Buying a Guitar for Your 8 Year Old

This is a great age to consider electric guitar if that's what excites them
Look for a guitar that stays in tune well - it's crucial for enjoyable practice
Consider a basic guitar amp and cable if going electric (~$50 extra)
Learning apps like Yousician can supplement lessons

Ready to Start Learning?

Once you have the right guitar, consider online lessons to accelerate learning:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can an 8 year old play a full size guitar?

Most 8-year-olds are more comfortable with a 3/4 size guitar. Exceptionally tall children (over 5 feet) may handle a full-size, but proper fit is important for developing good technique.

What's the best electric guitar for an 8 year old?

The Squier Mini Stratocaster is the top choice - it's a real Fender product sized for kids. The Epiphone Les Paul Junior is another excellent option with a different sound.

How long does it take an 8 year old to learn guitar?

With regular practice, an 8-year-old can learn basic chords in a few weeks and play simple songs in 1-2 months. Becoming 'good' takes 1-2 years of consistent practice.