Nylon vs Steel-String Guitars for Beginners — A Parent’s Guide




There comes a moment in every musical household when someone — usually the smallest member — says those magic words:

“I want to learn guitar.”

And that’s when the real questions begin.

Do you start with nylon strings or steel strings? Which guitar size fits best? What actually makes a beginner instrument “easy” to play? And how do you avoid spending a fortune before you even know if they’ll stick with it?

Breathe easy — we’ve got you. The team at Musicmaker Dublin have been helping new guitarists (and slightly bewildered parents) find their first instruments for over forty years.

So, let’s cut through the confusion and dive into the great beginner debate: nylon vs steel strings — what’s the difference, who should play which, and which packs give the best start.


The Quick Answer

Nylon-string guitars (also called classical guitars) are softer on little fingers and easier to fret. They’re perfect for younger beginners, those interested in classical or folk, or anyone who wants a gentler start.

Steel-string guitars have a brighter, louder sound and a slimmer neck — great for pop, rock, and singer-songwriter styles. They can feel tougher at first, but they’re the sound most people recognise when they think “guitar.”




Nylon-String Guitars — Gentle on the Hands, Big on Comfort

Why Choose Nylon

Nylon strings are thicker, smoother, and more forgiving on fingertips. The wider neck spacing helps beginners learn proper finger placement, and the overall tension is lower — so chords don’t feel like finger wrestling.

These guitars are quieter, warmer, and a little more relaxed. They encourage clean technique and are perfect for first lessons, home practice, and school music programmes.


Great Nylon Options at Musicmaker

Musicmaker Linden Guitar Packs (½ & ¾ Sizes)

Designed specifically for young beginners, these packs are the ideal first step into the world of music. Each includes a Linden classical guitar, soft gig bag, strap and tuner — everything needed to start learning straight away.

The smaller body size makes them comfortable for children, while the nylon strings keep the experience fun and pain-free. They’re light, well-built, and great value — a top pick for first-time players.

More details HERE.

Encore 4/4 Classical Guitar Outfit

For older beginners or adults who want a full-size classical experience, the Encore 4/4 Nylon Guitar Outfit is perfect. It features a warm, mellow tone, comfortable action, and traditional styling, plus all the accessories needed to start playing.

Available in Natural and Blue finishes, it’s a timeless instrument that’s gentle on the hands but full of rich, beautiful tone — ideal for lessons or quiet practice at home.

More details HERE.



Pop in and check out the mm Linden Packs and the Encore 4/4 Packs in Musicmaker now.


Steel-String Guitars — Bright, Bold & Ready for Anything

Why Choose Steel

Steel strings give that crisp, ringing sound you hear on pop, folk, and rock records. They’re louder, more expressive, and cut through mixes beautifully.

They do require a little more finger strength at first, but that’s part of the process — players usually adjust within a couple of weeks. Once the callouses come in, it’s all smooth sailing (and plenty of strumming).

Steel-strings also have slimmer necks, which smaller hands often find easier for chord changes once technique improves.


Great Steel-String Options at Musicmaker

Nashville ¾ Scale Guitar Pack – Natural

Compact, comfortable, and full of tone, the Nashville ¾ Pack is a favourite among young players ready for a steel-string experience.

It includes:

¾-sized Nashville guitar — perfect for smaller players or travel.

Bag, strap, and tuner — everything needed to start strumming straight out of the box.

Despite its smaller size, it delivers proper steel-string sparkle and punch. It’s a great next step for anyone moving up from nylon or starting fresh with a bit of grit in their sound.

More details HERE.

MM Vintage Statesboro Complete Promo Pack

For teens or adults starting strong, this pack is unbeatable value and full of character. The Vintage Statesboro series captures everything players love about classic acoustics — warmth, depth, and that unmistakable vintage edge.

Choose between two stunning models:

The pack also includes:

  • Musicmaker Picks – Set of 5: For experimenting with tone, attack, and feel.

It’s everything a beginner or returning player could ask for — gorgeous looks, reliable accessories, and true vintage-inspired tone. The Statesboro Promo Pack is proof that your first “proper” guitar can sound and feel like a lifelong companion.

More details HERE.



Perfect starter guitars -  The Nashville Pack and the mm Vintage Statesboro Packs.


Musicmaker’s Honest Advice

If your child is under 10 or brand new to playing, start with a nylon-string pack like the Linden series — the softer feel keeps things encouraging and fun.

If they’re a little older (10+), into pop or rock, or determined to “sound like Ed Sheeran,” go with a steel-string, such as the Nashville ¾ or Vintage Statesboro Pack.

And don’t worry — there’s no wrong choice. The skills learned on one transfer perfectly to the other. The goal is to start, to play, and to fall in love with making music.


Why Buy at Musicmaker Dublin

  • Expert guidance: Our team can help size guitars correctly and explain everything in person.
  • Try before you buy: Sit down, strum, and feel the difference between nylon and steel.
  • Set up and ready: Every beginner guitar is checked and adjusted before it leaves the shop.
  • Trusted for generations: Musicmaker’s been matching Dubliners with their first instruments since the early 1980s.

Whether you’re raising the next guitar hero or just looking for a joyful hobby, we’ll help you find a guitar that feels good, sounds great, and keeps the learning fun.


Quick Buying Checklist for Parents

Before you head into Musicmaker, here are a few simple things to keep in mind when choosing your child’s first guitar:

  • Check the size: Guitars come in ½, ¾, and full-size models. Smaller hands do better on smaller bodies — we’ll help measure and match the right fit.
  • Feel the neck: Comfort is key. A neck that’s too wide or heavy can make early lessons frustrating.
  • Think about strings: Nylon is gentle and soft for little beginners; steel brings that modern, bright pop sound older kids love.
  • Bring them along: Let your child hold a few options. The best guitar is the one that makes them want to pick it up again tomorrow.
  • Don’t overthink it: Every great player started with a simple, affordable guitar. What matters most is enthusiasm and support — and maybe a few encouraging words after the first F chord battle!



We have a few guitars for your perusal.


Final Word

Choosing between nylon and steel isn’t about right or wrong — it’s about comfort, curiosity, and confidence. Nylon offers gentleness and ease; steel brings energy and excitement. Both open the same door: the joy of making music.

Visit Musicmaker Dublin, explore the Linden, Encore, Nashville, and Vintage Statesboro packs, and let our team help you find the perfect match. Because the right first guitar isn’t just an instrument — it’s the start of a lifelong rhythm.



Check out all our current Acoustic Guitars Here.



Got any questions about these guitars? About other guitars? About the origins of the guitar and its position in the universe?

Get in touch via the Intercom button below, we are always happy to help out.