The Differences Between Acoustic and Electric Guitars
If you want to pick up a new hobby of playing guitar, one of the first questions you’ll need to ask yourself is if you want to play acoustic guitar or electric guitar. There are many differences between the two, and benefits to each. Read on to learn all about the differences between the two instruments.
The Benefits of Electric Guitars
Electric guitars are known for the big part they play in the world of Rock N’ Roll. Here are some of the benefits of choosing an electric guitar.
- Volume levels- If you’re just beginning your journey of learning guitar, odds are it won’t sound great at first. But unlike acoustic guitars, you can turn down an electric guitar, or plug in your headphones.
- Versatility- You have a lot more options with the electric guitar when it comes to sound production. The creativity flows easily with electric guitars.
The Benefits of Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars are known as classic instruments, great for all types of music. Here are some of the benefits of acoustic guitars.
- Cost- Acoustic guitars range heavily in price. But unlike electric guitars, none of them require an amplifier (and amps can get pretty costly) so they’re more likely to be cheaper than electric guitars.
- Simplicity- Acoustic guitars allow you to focus on one thing and one thing only- the strings. Learning to play an electric guitar requires you to think about distortion, pedals, a volume knob, and your strings.
- Ability to travel- Acoustic guitars can go anywhere you go without much hassle. As long as you have a good case, you’ll be fine to travel anywhere you want with it.
Main Differences Between Acoustic and Electric Guitars
Below is a chart describing the main differences you will encounter between acoustic and electric guitars.
| Acoustic guitars | Electric guitars |
| Body- the body of an acoustic guitar is wide and bulky. | Body- the body of an electric guitar is thin and petite. |
| Accessories- The only accessories required for an acoustic guitar are a pick and a tuner. | Accessories- Electric guitars require several accessories such as an amp, cables, and pedals. |
| Price- a beginner acoustic guitar will start at around $150. | Price- a beginner electric guitar will start at around $300, plus the price of the accessories. |
Similarities Between Electric and Acoustic Guitars
Though there are many differences between the two, there are some similarities that you should know about.
- Both types of guitars will have 6 strings.
- Both types of guitars have necks that are divided into sections referred to as “frets”.
- Both types of guitars have a similar body shape.
When you decide to learn how to play guitar, the first step is choosing between an acoustic guitar or electric guitar. There are many differences between the two, and depending on what type of music you are wanting to play, one is probably going to be a better fit than the other. Hopefully, you learned a little bit more about the differences and similarities between acoustic and electric guitar today.
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