🥇 Best Acoustic Guitars Under 500 Dollars | List of Top 10

With its lively tone, the best acoustic guitar under 500 makes you feel like a genuine player. Hello, this brief essay will examine the finest acoustic guitar under $500. As we increase our spending plan categories, we’ll look at some of the best 500$ guitars used by intermediate to pro guitar players. Before this post, we wrote additional articles about the best acoustic guitars under $100, $200, $300, and $400. Below, we cover $400–$500 guitars.

The greatest guitars in this range were chosen based on wood quality, sound quality, appearance, and real customer reviews and ratings. I visited nearby guitar shops and tried and tested all the guitars to choose these top guitars for you. Trying guitars and choosing one is difficult. These guitars have great sound, finishing, and wood. As said, I have played almost every guitar on my website and have visited numerous other sites and read articles about them.

10 Best Guitars Under 500 Dollars

In this section of the write-up, we have made a fast checklist of the top 10 best acoustic guitars under 500 for you. We have connected an Amazon page link of each of these guitars for you to see the current rate, or even more consumer reviews, there on your own.

Now, without more ado, let’s go through a quick list:

1-Taylor GS Mini-e Limited Black Limba ESB

The Taylor GS Mini-e Limited Black Limba ESB is an exceptional choice for guitarists seeking portability without sacrificing premium tone. Its compact body makes it ideal for travel, while the Black Limba wood provides warm resonance and distinctive aesthetics. Equipped with Taylor’s ESB electronics, it delivers a rich amplified sound, perfect for live performances or studio sessions. The smooth playability and clear projection make it suitable for beginners and professionals alike. Adding to its value, the included gig bag ensures protection and convenience on the go. If you’re searching for a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that blends style, comfort, and sound quality, this limited Taylor GS Mini-e is a top-tier option worth investing in.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Black Limba wood
• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Neck: Tropical mahogany
• Electronics: Taylor ES-B pickup system
• Scale length: 23.5 inches

Pros:

• Compact size with big, full sound projection
• Premium build quality at a mid-range price
• Onboard electronics with a tuner for easy live performance
• Comes with a padded gig bag for portability

Cons:

• A smaller body may not suit players seeking deep bass resonance

2-Seagull S6 Original Guitar Limited Version

The Seagull S6 Original is a legendary model loved by guitarists for its incredible tone and craftsmanship. Built with pressure-tested cedar on top and wild cherry back and sides, it offers a balanced, warm, and articulate sound ideal for strumming or fingerstyle. Its dreadnought body ensures excellent projection, while the comfortable neck design makes extended playing easier. Made in Canada, the S6 stands out for its durability and eco-friendly wood sourcing. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a long-term instrument or an intermediate player upgrading your collection, the Seagull S6 Original provides outstanding value in the mid-range acoustic market. With reliability, rich tone, and timeless design, this guitar is a true workhorse for every player.

Technical Specifications:

• Top: Solid cedar
• Back & sides: Wild cherry
• Neck: Silver leaf maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Made in Canada

Pros:

• Warm, rich tone with excellent sustain
• Handcrafted build with a solid cedar top
• Comfortable neck design for smooth playability
• Exceptional value for under $500

Cons:

• No onboard electronics for live amplification

3-Martin LX1E Acoustic Electric Guitar

The Martin LX1E Little Martin is a compact acoustic-electric guitar designed for players seeking portability with authentic Martin quality. Featuring a solid Sitka spruce top and mahogany HPL back and sides, it produces a surprisingly full tone despite its smaller size. Its Fishman Sonitone electronics ensure a natural amplified sound, making it a great choice for live settings. Comfortable and lightweight, the LX1E is perfect for travel, practice, or younger players with smaller hands. Martin’s craftsmanship ensures reliability and consistent performance, while the included gig bag makes transportation easy. With its blend of portability, premium build, and versatile sound, the Little Martin is one of the best small-body guitars available for serious players on the move.

Technical Specifications:

• Top: Solid Sitka spruce
• Back & sides: Mahogany HPL
• Neck: Rust birch laminate
• Electronics: Fishman Sonitone pickup
• Scale length: 23 inches

Pros:

• Portable size, perfect for travel or small hands
• Martin’s signature tone in a compact design
• Fishman Electronics provides clear amplified sound
• Durable high-pressure laminate construction

Cons:

• Smaller body limits volume and bass response

4-Cordoba C5 CE Iberia Collection Acoustic Electric Classical Guitar

The Cordoba C5-CE from the Iberia Series is a superb classical acoustic-electric guitar that blends traditional craftsmanship with modern performance. Featuring a solid Canadian cedar top and mahogany back and sides, it produces a warm, rich tone ideal for classical, Latin, and fingerstyle music. The cutaway design allows for easy access to higher frets, while the Fishman Isys+ electronics deliver clear, balanced amplification. Comfortable nylon strings and Cordoba’s expert setup make it suitable for beginners and advanced players alike. This model stands out for its playability, aesthetic elegance, and stage-ready sound. Whether you’re performing live, recording, or practicing, the Cordoba C5-CE offers an inspiring playing experience and excellent value in the world of classical guitars.

Technical Specifications:

• Top: Solid Canadian cedar
• Back & sides: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
• Electronics: Fishman Isys+ pickup system
• Style: Nylon string classical with cutaway

Pros:

• Authentic nylon string tone with warmth and clarity
• Comfortable cutaway design for easy upper-fret access
• Reliable Fishman electronics for live performance
• Ideal for classical, flamenco, or Latin styles

Cons:

• Not suitable for steel-string players seeking bright tones

5-Epiphone J-200 EC Studio

The Epiphone EJ-200SCE is a modern take on the iconic “Jumbo” guitar design, offering powerful projection and versatility. Built with a solid spruce top and select maple body, it delivers a bold, resonant tone that’s perfect for strumming and vocal accompaniment. Its cutaway body allows access to upper frets, while the Shadow preamp system ensures excellent amplified sound control. With its striking natural finish, ornate pickguard, and elegant mustache bridge, this guitar combines style and performance. The EJ-200SCE is particularly popular among singer-songwriters and stage performers who need both volume and clarity. Offering professional features at an accessible price, this Epiphone is one of the best large-bodied acoustic-electric guitars in its class.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Super jumbo with select maple back & sides
• Top: Solid spruce
• Neck: Maple with rosewood fingerboard
• Electronics: Shadow eSonic-II stereo pickup system
• Style: Jumbo cutaway

Pros:

• Bold, powerful projection with jumbo body design
• Gorgeous aesthetics inspired by Gibson’s J-200
• Dual pickup system for versatile live sound
• Excellent sustain and tonal range

Cons:

• A larger body may feel bulky for beginners

6-Bristol BD-16 Dreadnaught Acoustic Guitar

The Bristol BD-116 BD-16 is an excellent dreadnought acoustic guitar that combines affordability and quality, making it one of the best beginner acoustic guitars on the market. Its spruce top with mahogany back and sides delivers a warm, balanced tone that works for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. The smooth neck and carefully finished frets ensure comfortable playability for beginners and hobbyists. The included hardshell case adds reliable protection, perfect for travel, lessons, or casual gigs. With durable construction, classic design, and professional-quality sound, the BD-116 offers exceptional value for those seeking an affordable solid top guitar that grows with your skills.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Dreadnought, laminate spruce top, mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
• Scale Length: 25.5 inches
• Includes: Hardshell case, chrome tuning machines
• Strings: Factory-installed steel strings

Pros:

• Full, resonant dreadnought tone suitable for strumming and fingerpicking
• Affordable for beginners while maintaining decent build quality
• Comes with a protective hardshell case
• Easy-to-play neck for new guitarists

Cons:

• Laminated top reduces tonal richness compared to solid-top guitars

7-Fender CD-60S Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar

The Bristol BD-116 BD-16 is an excellent dreadnought acoustic guitar that combines affordability and quality, making it one of the best beginner acoustic guitars on the market. Its spruce top with mahogany back and sides delivers a warm, balanced tone that works for both strumming and fingerstyle playing. The smooth neck and carefully finished frets ensure comfortable playability for beginners and hobbyists. The included hardshell case adds reliable protection, perfect for travel, lessons, or casual gigs. With durable construction, classic design, and professional-quality sound, the BD-116 offers exceptional value for those seeking an affordable solid top guitar that grows with your skills.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Dreadnought, solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Mahogany with rolled fingerboard edges
• Scale Length: 25.3 inches
• Bundle Includes: Hard case, tuner, strap, extra strings, picks, instructional DVD, polishing cloth

Pros:

• Solid spruce top enhances resonance and clarity
• Comfortable neck with easy action for beginners
• Comprehensive bundle includes accessories for learning and maintenance
• Reliable Fender craftsmanship ensures consistent sound quality

Cons:

• Some players find the factory setup slightly high and may require adjustment

8-Takamine 6 String Acoustic Guitar

The Takamine GD20-NS is a premium solid top acoustic guitar perfect for intermediate and advanced players seeking rich, articulate sound. Its solid cedar top and mahogany back and sides produce warm, expressive tones ideal for fingerstyle, strumming, and accompaniment. The satin-finish neck ensures smooth playability for extended sessions, while the natural finish highlights its high-quality craftsmanship. This best acoustic guitar for serious players offers professional-quality tone at a reasonable price, making it ideal for recording, live performance, and songwriting. Combining elegant design, durable construction, and versatile sound, the GD20-NS is a reliable choice for those wanting a high-performing solid top acoustic guitar.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Dreadnought, solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Mahogany with rosewood fingerboard
• Scale Length: 25.5 inches
• Finish: Natural gloss
• Hardware: Chrome die-cast tuners

Pros:

• Warm, balanced tone suitable for a variety of genres
• Solid spruce top improves projection and resonance
• Smooth fretboard and comfortable neck profile
• Durable Takamine construction

Cons:

• Slightly pricier compared to other options on this list

9-Yamaha Storia III Acoustic Guitar

The Yamaha Storia III is a stylish, solid top acoustic guitar that appeals to beginners and casual players who want beauty and sound in one instrument. Its solid mahogany top and mahogany back and sides produce warm, balanced tones perfect for folk, pop, and soft rock. The chocolate brown finish with gold accents makes it an eye-catching piece for home or stage. Comfortable slim neck design and lightweight body make this guitar beginner-friendly, while the passive pickup allows easy amplification for performances. Combining elegance, excellent tone, and affordable solid top guitar quality, the Storia III is a standout option for those looking for a versatile and visually striking acoustic guitar.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Concert-sized, solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides
• Neck: Nato with rosewood fingerboard
• Scale Length: 24.8 inches
• Finish: Chocolate brown gloss
• Strings: Steel

Pros:

• Compact concert body ideal for smaller hands or travel
• Solid spruce top ensures bright, clear tone
• Lightweight and easy to handle for beginners
• Elegant finish and build quality

Cons:

• Less volume and bass compared to dreadnought models

10-Yamaha FS800 Acoustic Guitar 

The Yamaha FS800 is a compact concert-size solid top acoustic guitar designed for players seeking comfort and excellent tone. Its solid Sitka spruce top produces bright, clear highs and balanced mids, while the nato/okume back and sides ensure durable projection. The smaller body makes it perfect for beginners, women, or anyone preferring a lightweight guitar that’s easy to hold. Despite its size, it delivers impressive volume for practice, small gigs, or recording. Known as one of the best beginner acoustic guitars with a solid top, the FS800 combines Yamaha’s trusted craftsmanship, reliable tuning stability, and affordability, making it a versatile and high-quality instrument for learners and casual performers alike.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Concert, solid spruce top, nato/okoume back and sides
• Neck: Nato with rosewood fingerboard
• Scale Length: 25 inches
• Finish: Natural gloss
• Strings: Steel, factory-installed

Pros:

• Excellent, solid-top tone at an affordable price
• Comfortable small body design for beginners or smaller players
• Durable Yamaha craftsmanship ensures long-term reliability
• Balanced sound with good projection for its size

Cons:

• Not as loud as dreadnought guitars

Best Acoustic Guitars Under $500: Buying Advice

What’s the right combination of quality and price? It can be difficult to find a guitar that has all of your desired features at an affordable price, but fear not! We have compiled this list based on extensive research into acoustic guitars under $500.

I’ve found some models offer more than others, so read about them below:

Acoustic guitar size

The first and most crucial factor to consider when choosing your next guitar is body size. The tone it produces will be impacted by how big or small you need, so make sure that type is something for which you’re willing to compromise if necessary! There’s also Auditorium guitars (which were designed specifically with female players in mind), Classical guitars – commonly associated with classical music composers like Mozart; Parlour-sized instruments are smaller than jumbo models but still provide enough room up top, whereas the player can keep their hands from getting cramped during long practice sessions.

As a beginner, you might want to go for something comfortable and surprisingly lightweight. For older learners or someone who already has experience with guitars, the tone of your instrument should be an important consideration in choosing one – especially if sound quality is what matters most!

For younger players, we suggest going for acoustic guitars so as not to put too much strain on yourself when learning how to play them comfortably; likewise, bigger instruments can create louder sounds than smaller ones do. As far as deciding between those, bear that in mind when choosing your new guitar.

Laminate/ solid top

If you’re thinking about buying a guitar, the terms laminate top and solid may be new to you. What’s their difference?

A laminate is made up of multiple layers that are glued or pressed together so they can easily take pressure from playing without cracking, as an acoustic does, while still being lightweight enough for younger players who might not have strong hands yet. A single piece of wood (typically cedar) will go into making most types, including maple woods–which offer even more treble sounds than other types due in part because these come mostly thanks to pure saponins found within the wood, commonly known as “cedar oils.”This ensures a rich, full-bodied sound and increased volume.

The laminate top, on the other hand, is made from multiple pieces of wood glued together to form this soundboard, which results in an uncomplicated tone that isn’t as harmonically rich and full-sounding compared with a solid guitar’s voice.

This idea has been used for centuries by luthiers like Epiphone, who make budget guitars, but today you can find various models featuring their versions with either spruce or cedar tops; both costing less than $350! The Martin LX1e features one such high-quality design while still maintaining affordability: its sides are constructed out of High-Pressure Laminate (HPL), so what does it take? A beautiful, deep red color finish paired nicely against the natural Mahogany back & neck.

CONCLUSION

Currently, if you have experienced the whole post, then you must have one of our leading 10 choices. Allow us to recognize which one you like the most and also why? Well, if you ask me, then I would recommend you to choose the Epiphone EJ 200SCE. I own an Epiphone, and these guitars are the very best!! You can likewise make up your mind after going through the real consumer reviews online. Also, allow us to recognize if you think some other great guitar is available that can be included in this list of the top 10 ideal guitars under 500. You can refer to many of our products on the homepage: thewytches.com

Related articles:

• Best acoustic guitar under $100
• Best acoustic guitar under $400