If you have small hands, playing a regular-sized guitar can be challenging, and you may struggle to reach the frets and play comfortably. Therefore, if you are experiencing these issues, it may be time to consider purchasing a Guitar for Small Hands. The best Guitar for Small Hands can make playing easier and more comfortable, allowing you to play for longer periods without experiencing discomfort or pain.
Finding the best Guitar for Small Hands can be difficult as there are many options, and not everyone is equal. Some guitars may claim to be ideal for small hands but may still be too large or have a neck that is too thick. Therefore, it’s crucial to research and choose a guitar designed for players with small hands.
Fortunately, we have reviewed many Guitar for Small Hands options and can help you select one suited to your needs. By considering factors such as size, shape, and neck width, we can help you choose a guitar that will make playing easier and more comfortable, allowing you to focus on honing your skills and enjoying the music.
Contents
- Top 5 Guitars for Small Hands
- Best Overall: Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar Electric Guitar
- Best Acoustic for Small Hands: Taylor GS Mini-e Solid Koa Top ESB w/Gig Ba
- Best Versatile: Fender Player Mustang Electric Guitar
- Best Budget Guitar: Little Martin LX1RE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
- Best Rock Guitar for Small Hands: Epiphone SG Standard 61 Maestro Vibrola
- Best for Young Guitarists: Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar
- How To Choose The Best Guitar for Small Hands
- Frequently Asked Questions About Guitars for Small Hands
- 1. What is a guitar for small hands?
- 2. What are the benefits of playing the guitar for small hands?
- 3. How do I know if I need a guitar for small hands?
- 4. What should I look for in a guitar for small hands?
- 5. Are there any downsides to playing the guitar for small hands?
- 6. Can I still play a standard guitar with small hands?
- 7. Are guitars for small hands more expensive than standard guitars?
- 8. Can children play guitars with small hands?
Top 5 Guitars for Small Hands
Best Overall: Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar Electric Guitar
For several reasons, the Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS stands out as the best guitar for small hands on the market.
Its compact and ergonomic design caters perfectly to players with smaller hands, ensuring comfortable and effortless playability. This feature alone makes it a top choice for this demographic.
Secondly, the Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS boasts versatile pickups that deliver a wide range of tones. Players can easily switch between the aggressive sound of the humbucking bridge pickup and the crisp clarity of the single-coil neck pickup. This versatility suits various playing styles, from rock to blues, adding to its appeal.
Another significant advantage is its high-quality craftsmanship, ensuring excellent durability and tone stability. Whether you’re a professional musician or a beginner, this guitar’s reliability is an asset.
In summary, the Fender Kurt Cobain Jaguar NOS is ideal for players with smaller hands who seek comfort and versatility in their instrument. It’s worth recommending due to its ergonomic design, versatile pickups, and exceptional build quality.
Pros:
- Compact and ergonomic design
- Versatile pickup configuration
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Iconic design and aesthetic
- Smooth playability
Cons:
- Relatively higher price point
- Heavier than some other models
Best Acoustic for Small Hands: Taylor GS Mini-e Solid Koa Top ESB w/Gig Ba
The Taylor GS Mini-e Koa Acoustic-electric Guitar is the best acoustic guitar for small hands due to its exceptional characteristics.
Its compact Grand Symphony body shape makes it comfortable to hold and play for those with smaller hands, ensuring an enjoyable playing experience.
One of its standout features is the high-quality Koa wood construction. This enhances the guitar’s aesthetics and contributes to a warm and resonant tone. It’s perfect for fingerstyle playing, making it a top choice for acoustic enthusiasts.
This guitar also has an ES-B pickup system, allowing players to amplify their sound easily. Whether performing on stage or recording, this feature provides versatility and convenience.
In conclusion, the Taylor GS Mini-e Koa Acoustic-electric Guitar is superb for individuals with smaller hands who appreciate acoustic tones. It’s highly recommended for its comfortable design, quality tonewoods, and built-in electronics.
Pros:
- Compact Grand Symphony body shape
- Exceptional Koa wood construction
- ES-B pickup system for easy amplification
- Rich and warm acoustic tones
- Taylor’s renowned craftsmanship
Cons:
- Limited tonal variety compared to larger acoustics
- Slightly higher price point
Best Versatile: Fender Player Mustang Electric Guitar
The Fender Player Mustang 90 is the most versatile option for players with smaller hands. Its short 24″ scale length makes it easy to navigate the fretboard, making it an excellent choice for those with smaller hands.
One of the standout features of this guitar is its P-90 single-coil pickups, known for their distinctive, punchy sound. This pickup configuration allows players to explore genres, from blues to punk, ensuring your sound will always cut through the mix.
Furthermore, the Mustang 90 has a lightweight body, which makes it comfortable to play for extended periods. Whether you’re practicing at home or gigging on stage, its comfort factor is undeniable.
In summary, the Fender Player Mustang 90 is perfect for players with smaller hands who want versatility and comfort. Its P-90 pickups, short scale length, and lightweight design make it an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Short 24″ scale length
- Punchy P-90 single-coil pickups
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Ideal for various music styles
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Limited tonal options compared to some other Fender models
- Limited tonal variety compared to guitars with multiple pickup configurations
Best Budget Guitar: Little Martin LX1RE Acoustic-Electric Guitar
The Martin LX1E Little Martin Acoustic-electric Guitar is the best budget guitar for small hands. Despite its affordability, this instrument boasts a scaled-down design that makes it perfect for players with smaller hands. The value it offers at its price point is remarkable.
One of its outstanding features is the onboard Fishman Sonitone electronics. This allows players to amplify their sound for performances or recording quickly. Its solid Sitka spruce top also contributes to a rich and resonant tone, providing an excellent playing experience.
The Martin LX1E Little Martin is ideal for budget-conscious musicians with smaller hands. It’s highly recommended for its affordability, comfortable design, and quality electronics.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Scaled-down design for small hands
- Fishman Sonitone electronics for easy amplification
- Rich and resonant tone
- Martin’s renowned craftsmanship
Cons:
- Limited tonal variety compared to larger models
- Smaller body sizes may not suit all playing styles
Best Rock Guitar for Small Hands: Epiphone SG Standard 61 Maestro Vibrola
The Gibson SG Standard ’61 is the best rock guitar for small hands. Its slim-taper neck profile and double-cutaway design make it perfect for players with smaller hands who crave a sleek and fast-playing instrument.
One of its standout features is the pair of ’61 Burstbucker humbucking pickups. These pickups deliver powerful, aggressive tones, making them a go-to choice for rock guitarists. The fast and comfortable neck profile also facilitates speedy riffing and soloing, enhancing the overall rock-playing experience.
Additionally, the mahogany body and neck contribute to its sustain and resonance. This guitar is perfect for those who want to rock out with ease.
In conclusion, the Gibson SG Standard ’61 is designed for rock enthusiasts with smaller hands who seek speed and power. It’s recommended for its comfortable design, powerful pickups, and rock-ready build.
Pros:
- Slim-taper neck profile for fast-playing
- ’61 Burstbucker humbucking pickups for aggressive tones
- Double-cutaway design for easy upper fret access
- Iconic rock guitar aesthetics
- Rich sustain and resonance
Cons:
- Heavier compared to some other models
- Higher price point
Best for Young Guitarists: Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar
The Squier Mini Strat is the best guitar for young guitarists with smaller hands. Its 3/4-size design ensures it’s comfortable and manageable for young players just starting their musical journey.
One of its most significant advantages is its lightweight and compact body, perfect for beginners without fully developed hand strength. This design allows young guitarists to explore their musical interests without feeling overwhelmed.
The Mini Strat also features three single-coil pickups that offer a variety of tones, ideal for learners who want to experiment with different styles. Its affordability is another plus point, making it accessible to beginners and their parents.
In summary, the Squier Mini Strat is tailored for young guitarists with smaller hands who want a comfortable and affordable entry into the music world. It’s recommended for its child-friendly design, versatile pickups, and budget-friendly price.
Pros:
- 3/4-size design for young players
- Lightweight and comfortable to hold
- Versatile single-coil pickups
- Affordable for beginners
- Ideal for learning and practice
Cons:
- Limited tonal range compared to more prominent guitars
- They may need an upgrade as young players advance
How To Choose The Best Guitar for Small Hands
Finding the right guitar can be challenging if you have smaller hands. A guitar that is too big for your hands can be uncomfortable to play, making it difficult to reach the strings and frets. The best guitar for small hands will fit comfortably, allowing you to play quickly and improve your technique.
To help you choose the best guitar for small hands, here are eight key factors to consider:
1. Scale length
Scale length is the distance between the nut and the guitar’s bridge. Shorter scale lengths can be more comfortable for players with smaller hands, as they require less stretch to reach the notes. Look for guitars with a scale length of 24 inches or less.
2. Neck width and shape
A guitar with a narrow neck can be easier for small hands to grip, while a thinner neck profile can reduce the amount of hand strain. Look for neck widths of 1.65 inches or less at the nut, and consider a C-shaped neck profile for added comfort.
3. Body size and shape
Smaller-bodied guitars can be more comfortable for players with smaller hands, as they are easier to hold and play. Consider a parlor or concert-style guitar, which is both smaller in size.
4. Action
Action refers to the distance between the strings and frets. A lower action can make playing easier for small-handed players, requiring less pressure to hold the strings down. Look for a low-action guitar, or have a guitar technician adjust the action.
5. Fret size and spacing
Smaller frets and tighter fret spacing can make playing more accessible for small hands. Look for guitars with smaller frets and closer fret spacing, or consider having a guitar technician replace the frets with smaller ones.
6. Weight
A heavy guitar can be uncomfortable for players with smaller hands to hold and play. Look for a guitar with a lightweight body, or consider a travel guitar that is designed for portability.
7. Sound
The guitar’s sound is important, as it can affect your motivation to practice and play. Look for a guitar that produces a sound you enjoy and inspires you to keep playing.
8. Price
Price is an important consideration when choosing a guitar for small hands. Look for a guitar that fits your budget and meets your size and sound requirements.
In conclusion, finding the best guitar for small hands can be challenging. Still, by considering factors such as scale length, neck width and shape, body size and shape, action, fret size and spacing, weight, sound, and price, you can find a guitar that is comfortable to play and inspires you to improve your skills.
Frequently Asked Questions About Guitars for Small Hands
If you’re a guitar player with small hands, you might have questions about finding the right guitar. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about guitars for small hands to help you make an informed decision.
1. What is a guitar for small hands?
A guitar for small hands is a guitar that is specifically designed for players with smaller hands. These guitars typically have a smaller neck profile and a shorter scale length, which makes them easier to play for those with smaller hands.
2. What are the benefits of playing the guitar for small hands?
Playing a guitar designed for small hands can make it easier for players to reach all of the notes on the fretboard and perform complex chord shapes. This can lead to improved technique, faster progress, and greater enjoyment of playing.
3. How do I know if I need a guitar for small hands?
If you struggle to reach certain chords or notes on a standard guitar due to the size of your hands, you may benefit from a guitar for small hands. It’s worth trying out a few guitars to see which feels most comfortable for you.
4. What should I look for in a guitar for small hands?
When choosing a guitar for small hands, looking for a smaller neck profile and shorter scale length is essential. You may also want to consider a guitar with a smaller body size, as this can make it easier to play for extended periods.
5. Are there any downsides to playing the guitar for small hands?
The main downside of playing the guitar for small hands is that the smaller size may affect the guitar’s tone. However, this can be mitigated by choosing a high-quality guitar designed explicitly for small hands.
6. Can I still play a standard guitar with small hands?
Yes, it is still possible to play a standard guitar if you have small hands. However, you may find reaching specific notes or chords more challenging and developing the proper techniques more difficult.
7. Are guitars for small hands more expensive than standard guitars?
Not necessarily. While some guitars for small hands may be more expensive due to the specialized design, many affordable options are also available.
8. Can children play guitars with small hands?
Yes, children can play guitars with small hands. It may be easier for children to learn on a guitar designed for smaller hands and bodies.
In conclusion, finding the right guitar for small hands can be challenging, but it’s important to consider your needs and preferences when choosing a guitar. With some research and experimentation, you can find the perfect guitar to help you reach your musical goals.