Best Acoustic Guitar Under 500 – Great Value Picks

Wood

Over the years, I’ve noticed that many guitarists (myself included) tend to gravitate toward all-solid wood builds. There’s a reason for it, solid woods usually carry sound more efficiently, letting the instrument resonate and breathe in a way laminate simply can’t. That said, solid wood costs more, which is why you won’t see many full-solid builds in this price range. What you can find are some very respectable, solid-top models that give you a noticeable boost in tone and projection without breaking the bank. Don’t expect high-grade Sitka spruce tops here, but there are still some pleasant surprises.

Some brands also make clever use of composite materials, and I’ve seen them work especially well in stage-ready acoustic-electrics and travel guitars. Even boutique builders now use composite or engineered woods in spots like fretboards, and in many cases, you wouldn’t know unless someone told you.

Here’s a quick rundown of common tonewoods you’ll encounter on the best acoustic guitar models:

• Spruce – A go-to top wood for its balanced, all-round tone. Works well with just about any back and side pairing.
• Cedar – Warmer and softer than spruce with less projection, often found on guitars designed for Fingerstyle players.
• Mahogany – Dense, warm, and focused. Traditionally used for backs and sides, but all-mahogany builds have become very popular in the budget range.
• Sapele – Similar to mahogany but with a touch more brightness, adding what Taylor calls “top-end shimmer.”
• Maple – Bright, with strong projection, though as a top wood it can be mid-heavy for some tastes.
• Koa – Hawaiian koa is dense, mid-forward, and ages into a warmer tone. Mostly seen on high-end guitars, but you might find laminate versions here.
• Rosewood – Warm with rich overtones, often used on backs, sides, and fingerboards. Adds depth to spruce tops but is more expensive.

If you want to dig into how wood choice really affects tone, Tapping Tonewoods by Dana Bourgeois is a fantastic read from a master luthier’s perspective.

Shape and Size

Guitar body shape has a bigger impact on tone and feel than many beginners realize. Smaller-bodied instruments like Concert or Parlor models bring out the mids and highs, making them favorites for fingerstyle players or younger musicians who need something more comfortable. A Parlor guitar in particular is perfect for couch playing and casual songwriting sessions.

On the other end, a jumbo body will give you room-filling bass and volume that works beautifully for bold strumming. Grand Auditorium designs blend the best of both worlds, while the classic dreadnought remains the workhorse, loud, balanced, and versatile. If you’re curious about how different sizes affect comfort and tone, our Guitar Sizes guide is worth checking out.

Action / String Height

String height, or Guitar Action, can make or break how an instrument feels. Low action is easier on the fingers and great for fast runs, tapping, and hammer-ons, which is why beginners and electric guitar converts often prefer it. Higher action can be better for aggressive strumming because it reduces fret buzz.

Unfortunately, most manufacturers don’t list action measurements in their specs, so you may need to tweak your setup after purchase. If you’re handy, this guide from Guitar Player is a solid resource. If not, a local tech or luthier can dial it in for you.

Nut Width

Nut width controls how far apart the strings are. A wider nut feels roomier for players with larger hands or those used to classical guitar necks. Narrower widths suit players coming from electric. If you’ve been playing one type of guitar for a while, stick close to what you know for a smoother transition.

Scale Length

Scale length, measured between the nut and saddle, affects tension, tone, and feel. Longer scales tend to sound brighter and need a bit more finger strength. Stewart MacDonald offers a great breakdown of the math here, while Guitar Player covers how it impacts real-world playability. The number of guitar frets also comes into play with certain designs.

Strap Buttons

Not every guitar comes with both strap buttons. If you plan to stand and play, check product photos carefully. Adding one isn’t hard or expensive, but it’s nice when they’re already in place.

Finish and Aesthetics

Looks aren’t everything, but let’s be honest, they matter. A guitar you enjoy looking at is a guitar you’ll reach for more often. Just remember to properly clean your guitar if you want that finish to stay fresh.

What is the Best Acoustic Guitar for Beginners?

If you’re just starting out, your guitar should be comfortable, inspiring, and fit your budget. It might be a steel-string, a classical guitar, or something in between, but it definitely shouldn’t be something like a Square Neck Resonator unless you’re going for a very specific style. For more beginner-friendly picks, see our Guide to Beginner Acoustic Guitars.