Play what you actually want to play. The advice to "start on acoustic" is mostly wrong.
The Myth You Should Ignore
"Start on acoustic because it builds finger strength and makes electric easier later."
This is repeated constantly and it's mostly wrong. Acoustic does build calluses faster — but it also has higher action, heavier strings, and more physical resistance. For a lot of beginners, that means more pain, slower progress, and quitting before they get anywhere. If you want to play electric, start electric.
We've watched enough beginners come through the shop to know: the ones who start on the guitar they actually wanted to play are the ones who stick with it.
The Real Question
What music do you actually want to play?
- Rock, blues, metal, funk, pop with a band — start electric
- Folk, singer-songwriter, country, fingerpicking — start acoustic
- Classical or fingerstyle — start classical (nylon string)
- Not sure yet — start acoustic. It's a little more versatile for figuring out what you like.
Practical Differences
- Electric — easier to play physically (lower action, lighter strings), requires an amp, more gear to manage, better for styles with distortion or effects
- Acoustic — no amp needed, more portable, harder on fingers initially, better for unplugged playing and open chord styles
Cost Comparison
A decent beginner electric setup (guitar + amp) runs $300–$500 new. A decent beginner acoustic runs $200–$400. Used gear in both categories can cut those numbers significantly — and often plays better than new at the same price point. See our Used Guitar Buying Checklist before you shop.
We carry both new and used electrics and acoustics at the shop. Everything on the floor has been looked at — if something needs a setup to be worth selling, we do it first. Stop in and play both before you decide. That's the only way to know.
What Actually Matters More Than Either Choice
The condition of the guitar. A poorly set up acoustic or electric will fight you regardless of which type it is. High action, tuning instability, and fret issues make learning harder than it needs to be. If you're buying used especially, it's worth getting the guitar looked at before you decide it's not for you. Do I Need a Guitar Setup covers what to check.
Bottom Line
Play what you want to play. Don't let anyone talk you into a guitar type that doesn't match your goals — motivation is the most important factor in whether you stick with it. And if you're not sure, come in and try both. We're not going to push you toward anything that isn't right for you.
Paul's Guitar Hideout is located at The Shirt Factory in Glens Falls, NY. Use the Cooper Street entrance and take the stairs up. If you need assistance, give us a call and we'll come down.
The Shirt Factory
71 Lawrence St., Suite 201B, 2nd Floor
Glens Falls, NY 12801
Wednesday–Sunday, 12–5pm
(518) 217-8695 · info@paulsguitarhideout.com