Getting the right size matters: comfort, posture, finger reach, motivation.
Buying your child their first guitar is one of those magical moments. But then you look online and discover a jungle of sizes: ½, ¾, full size, mini, electric, acoustic… suddenly, the “simple gift” turns into a puzzle. The good news? Once you know the basics, choosing the right size is easy—and it makes a huge difference in how much your child enjoys learning.
At Musicmaker, we’ve been helping families in Dublin find the perfect first guitar since the 1980s. Let’s break it down.
Musicmaker has the guitars you need.
Why Guitar Size Matters
A guitar that’s too big feels like wrestling a sofa. A guitar that’s too small can feel toy-like and frustrating. The sweet spot is an instrument that lets your child sit comfortably, reach the frets without straining, and strum naturally. If they feel good playing, they’ll want to play more—and that’s half the battle won.
A Quick Guide to Guitar Sizes
Most children start with either a ½ size, a ¾ size, or a full-size guitar. Here’s how parents usually decide:
- ½ Size – Best for kids around 5–7 years old. Compact, lightweight, and easy for small arms to hug.
- ¾ Size – The most popular option, typically perfect for 8–11 year olds. Big enough to sound great, small enough to handle without a struggle.
- Full Size (4/4) – Once your child hits their early teens or is tall for their age, a full-size guitar is the way to go. This is the “grown-up” size they’ll eventually need anyway.
Every child is different, of course. Height, arm length, and hand span can be more important than age. The best test is always seeing them hold the guitar—do they look comfortable, or like they’re disappearing behind it?
No one wants to see this face....
Acoustic, Electric, or Nylon-String?
Here’s the other big decision: what type of guitar to choose.
- Nylon-string classical guitars are the gentlest on little fingers. They have a mellow sound, softer strings, and they’re forgiving for beginners. Browse them Here.
- Steel-string acoustics sound brighter and louder, but the strings can be tougher on fingers starting out. Body size also matters—smaller “parlour” style acoustics are often better for kids than the big dreadnoughts. Browse them Here.
- Electric guitars are surprisingly child-friendly: slimmer bodies, thinner necks, and lighter strings. The only catch is you’ll need an amp and cable, but kids who dream of playing rock riffs will love them. Browse them Here.
Our Favourite Picks for Kids
Here are some of the instruments we keep coming back to at Musicmaker when parents ask what to buy. They’re tried, tested, and guaranteed to put a grin on your child’s face.
The mm Linden Classical Guitar Packs - available in a range of sizes.
Musicmaker Linden Classical Guitar Packs (½, ¾ and full size)
These packs are our most popular choice for young beginners because they take the stress out of starting. Each comes with a linden-wood classical guitar, a padded gig bag, strap, and a tuner—everything your child needs to get going from day one. The ½ size is ideal for very young starters around 5–7 years old, while the ¾ is our best seller for kids aged 8–11. Once your child grows taller or enters their teens, the full-size pack is ready and waiting. Affordable, reliable, and no missing accessories—parents love them.
The Epiphone E-1. A beautiful, full size nylon string guitar for beginners
Epiphone E-1 Nylon (Full Size)
Epiphone designed this with beginners in mind, but it’s a world apart from “cheap starter guitars.” The E-1 has a slightly slimmer body depth, making it easier to hold, and nylon strings that are kinder on fingertips. The neck is shaped for comfort, and the build quality is excellent for the price. While it’s a full-size guitar, it’s a brilliant option for older kids or teens ready for something more serious than an entry-level pack. It’s also a great investment because it’ll last them years without feeling like a “starter only” instrument.
Jet Guitars never fail to impress - the Jet JS-300 Mini is no different.
JET JS-300 Mini Electric (¾ Size)
The Jet Mini is a little powerhouse. With a shorter scale length and smaller body, it’s built specifically for younger players who dream of plugging in and rocking out. It’s not heavy, the neck is easy to grip, and the design looks every bit as cool as a full-size electric. Kids love that it feels like a “real” guitar, not a toy. When they eventually outgrow it, moving up to the standard JS-300 is seamless—same vibe, just bigger.
Each of these guitars has its place. If you want a simple, complete package for a younger child, the Linden packs are unbeatable. If your child is older and ready for a longer-term instrument, the Epiphone E-1 is a gem. And if it’s all about electric fun from the start, the Jet JS-300 Mini delivers in spades.
Tips for Parents
- Bring your child into the shop if you can—trying a guitar in person is the best way to know it fits.
- Don’t worry too much about “future proofing.” A guitar that fits now is always better than one they’ll “grow into.”
- Accessories matter: a tuner, strap, and gig bag will make the whole experience smoother.
- If you’re gifting lessons as well (a fantastic idea), make sure the guitar is set up and ready to play from day one.
Roughly speaking. If possible, it's always best to pop in to Musicmaker for advice in person though.
FAQ
Q. Can a child play a full-size guitar from the start?
A. Sometimes, but usually it’s uncomfortable. Unless your child is quite tall, a smaller guitar will help them enjoy learning more
Q. Are nylon strings always better for beginners?
A. Not always, but they’re definitely easier on young fingers. Steel strings are fine too—just expect a short “ouch” phase as fingertips toughen up.
Q. When should we move up a size?
A. If your child looks cramped, has trouble reaching chords, or their strumming arm feels awkward, it’s time to upgrade. Most kids outgrow a ½ size in a couple of years, and a ¾ can last until they’re ready for a full-size.
Q. What’s the best guitar to buy as a gift?
A. A pack that includes the guitar, bag, and tuner is always a winner. Pair it with a voucher for lessons, and you’ve given a gift that could last a lifetime.
Final Word
Choosing your child’s first guitar doesn’t need to be complicated. Start with the right size, pick a type that suits their personality, and focus on comfort and playability. From our Linden packs to the Epiphone E-1 and the JET JS-300 Mini, we’ve got instruments here at Musicmaker that will make their first steps into music inspiring and fun.
Check out all our Acoustic Guitars HERE.
Check out all our Electric Guitars HERE.
