Blog

Best 3/4 acoustic guitars 2024: smaller-bodied guitars for all levels | Guitar World

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works.

From beginner nylon string models to solid electro-acoustic travel guitars, there’s a 3/4 option here for every style of player Hand Instrument

Best 3/4 acoustic guitars 2024: smaller-bodied guitars for all levels | Guitar World

Think 3/4 acoustic guitars are just for kids? Think again – these smaller-bodied powerhouses can go toe-to-toe with the best of them. The best 3/4 acoustic guitars can do almost everything their full-sized counterparts can. Just look at Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift, both worldwide superstars selling out stadiums with their compact acoustics.

Top 3/4 models from brands like Taylor and Martin demonstrate that these diminutive acoustics can hold their own among the giants of the music world. Beyond the global spotlight, 3/4 acoustic guitars suit a variety of players. Whether you're seeking a portable travel companion, a compact couch guitar, or a model that matches a smaller stature, a 3/4 acoustic isn’t just a viable option, it’s an ideal choice for many players.

There’s a huge range range of options currently available, too. Guitar brands have recognized the demand for smaller bodies and have served up a fantastic selection to match. From the aforementioned Martin and Taylor, Yamaha to Fender, the choice has never been greater. And that’s where we come in. We’ve selected options for all budgets to suit your 3/4 acoustic guitar needs. We’ve also included a handy FAQ section on this page to answer all your burning questions.

Taylor Guitars has a reputation as one of the premier acoustic guitar manufacturers in the world, so it’s no surprise to find a Taylor sitting at the top of our list. In our experience, the affectionately named ‘Baby Taylor’ delivers a surprisingly large sound considering its small dimensions.

The JR1 is one of Yamaha’s best-selling 3/4 acoustic guitars thanks to its great specifications and easy playability. Coming with a bunch of accessories it’s a perfect acoustic guitar for beginners as you get everything you need in one box (including a gigbag!).

Initially made famous by Ed Sheeran, the Martin LX1E ‘Little Martin’ is one of the most popular 3/4 acoustic guitars ever made. Having made acoustics for over 180 years, with Martin Guitars comes a time-tested adherence to quality, so you know you’re getting a guitar of the highest order when you purchase.

While not the biggest name on the market, Faith has earned itself an interstellar reputation for producing exceptional quality instruments. The brainchild of renowned luthier Patrick James Eggle, Faith isn’t afraid to explore new frontiers and create unique instruments using lesser-known yet high-quality materials.

The Taylor GS Mini has become something of a modern classic, finding favor with experienced guitarists whilst still being beginner-friendly. There’s no doubt it’s played a large part in the soaring popularity of smaller sized guitars.

Yamaha has a fantastic reputation in the beginner’s market, having given us the now-classic CS range of nylon-strung acoustic guitars. Since then they’ve been a constant in schools and other educational institutions, with many guitarists cutting their teeth on a Yamaha acoustic.

Taylor Guitars has a reputation as one of the premier acoustic guitar manufacturers in the world, so it’s no surprise to find a Taylor sitting at the top of our list. In our experience, the affectionately named ‘Baby Taylor’ delivers a surprisingly large sound considering its small dimensions.

The Taylor BT1 gives you a beautifully comfortable playing experience, with low string action and a small neck heel allowing you great access to the upper registers. Whether you’re playing fingerstyle or using a guitar pick, it reacts brilliantly to the dynamics of your playing.

Best 3/4 acoustic guitars 2024: smaller-bodied guitars for all levels | Guitar World

Kalimba Make no mistake this is a proper Taylor guitar, so the sound is just as full of richness and depth as any of the full-size Taylor models. A tight low end with clear mids and crispness in the highs is matched with great projection, making for one of the best 3/4-sized acoustic guitars money can buy.