I’m planning to buy a guitar when I get my tax return. But since I don’t know anything about playing guitar yet, I’m not sure if I should go for an acoustic or electric guitar. I love metal music, so I feel like I need an electric to play the songs I enjoy. But on the other hand, acoustic seems more versatile. Which one is easier to learn? Is there a big difference in difficulty? What are the pros and cons of each? Any advice would be helpful. Thanks!
Electric guitars are definitely more versatile, especially if you’re into metal. You’ll need an electric to get those pinch harmonics. I’d recommend a Squier Strat, they’re affordable (about $100) and great for beginners.
@Reeve
I agree, the Squier Strat is a good choice. Also, if you’re aiming for metal, I’d suggest looking for one with a humbucker in the bridge. It’ll give you a better tone for that style.
Electric is way more versatile than acoustic. You can get an electric to sound like an acoustic with the right settings, and you can also make it sound however you like with pedals. Plus, it’s way quieter, which is helpful if you’re practicing in an apartment late at night. In terms of difficulty, there’s not much of a difference.
Pick the one that’s going to get you playing more. If you’re drawn to electric, go for it. Electric guitars are a lot of fun and will keep you interested!
Since you’re into metal, you’ll definitely want an electric. You’ll regret not having one with humbuckers when you’re trying to play metal riffs.
Morgan said:
Since you’re into metal, you’ll definitely want an electric. You’ll regret not having one with humbuckers when you’re trying to play metal riffs.
100% agree! The music you love will guide what kind of guitar you need. I’ve run a music lesson studio for over 15 years, and I always recommend getting the guitar that suits your favorite style of music. If you love metal, get an electric with a humbucker for the best experience.
Electric is easier, but you’ll need more equipment (like an amp). Acoustic is cheaper and simpler, but the strings are harder to press. If you’re looking to play metal, electric is the way to go.
I learned on an acoustic, and it made a big difference for my finger strength. It’s tough to go back to acoustic after learning on an electric. You can learn basic chords on an electric, but the action on an acoustic is a lot harder. Here’s a video that shows you how to play metal on both electric and acoustic: [Link]
Like others said, if you’re into metal, get an electric with humbuckers (Les Paul is a great choice). Neither one is really harder than the other, they’re just meant for different styles. Acoustic is tougher for bending and playing metal, though. Once you learn, switching between them is easy.
I’d say start with acoustic. It’s harder to play, but once you get used to it, switching to electric will be much easier. But honestly, just get the guitar that excites you. If you’re not motivated to play it, you won’t improve no matter what type you get.
If you want to play metal, get an electric. If you want acoustic music, go for an acoustic. If you get an electric, don’t forget to budget for an amp!
Pick the guitar that’s more suited to the kind of music you want to play or enjoy listening to.
Get the guitar that will get you more excited to play. Each has its pros and cons, but there’s no right or wrong answer.
I learned on acoustic and still play both. Electric is easier on your fingers, though. The only downside is you’ll need to get an amp for it, and it’s less portable than an acoustic. If you’re planning to practice at home a lot, though, it’s a good choice.
I’ve heard that if you can only afford one guitar, electric is the better choice, though I can’t remember exactly why.
Electric. Don’t bother with acoustic until your fingers have developed some calluses.
They’re different instruments, and you can’t get a metal sound from an acoustic. You’ll have a harder time with bends, palm mutes, and other techniques on an acoustic. If you want to play metal, an electric is the way to go. If you already have an acoustic, it’s fine to start there, but you’ll want an electric eventually for metal. For an electric, make sure to get one with at least one humbucker pickup (preferably in the bridge position). Don’t forget to budget for an amp, as that’s where the sound comes from. Also, avoid preset settings like ‘Master of Puppets’—learn how to dial in your tone by adjusting the gain, EQ, and effects yourself.
The idea that you should start on acoustic was mostly pushed by older folks, but it’s not really necessary if you’re drawn to electric music. Electric guitars are easier to play and generally more fun to learn on.