The Difference Between Acoustic and Classical Guitar – Which Should You Learn?

1. What Is a Classical Guitar?

The classical guitar, often referred to as the nylon-string guitar, is one of the oldest types of guitars still in use today. Its origins date back to the 18th century and are rooted in European classical and flamenco traditions.

Key Characteristics:

• Strings: Uses nylon strings (with the lower three strings wound with metal)

• Neck Width: Wider fingerboard (typically around 2 inches or 52 mm)

• Neck Joint: Usually a 12-fret neck (meaning the neck joins the body at the 12th fret)

• Body Shape: Smaller and lighter body compared to most steel-string acoustic guitars

• Bracing: Uses fan bracing under the soundboard

• Tone: Warm, mellow, and soft

Classical guitars are usually played fingerstyle (plucking the strings with fingertips or fingernails), which allows for dynamic expression and intricate melodies.

2. What Is an Acoustic Guitar?

The term "acoustic guitar" typically refers to the steel-string acoustic guitar, which became popular in American folk, country, pop, and rock music.

Key Characteristics:

• Strings: Uses steel strings, which produce a louder and brighter sound

• Neck Width: Narrower fingerboard (usually around 1.7 inches or 43-45 mm)

• Neck Joint: Commonly a 14-fret neck (joins body at the 14th fret)

• Body Shape: Available in various sizes (dreadnought, concert, jumbo)

• Bracing: X-bracing under the soundboard for structural strength

• Tone: Bright, crisp, louder, and more percussive

Steel-string acoustic guitars are mostly played using a pick (plectrum) or fingerpicking techniques, depending on the musical style.

3. Structural Differences Explained

Let’s examine how these guitars differ structurally and how that impacts the playing experience.

a. Strings and Tension

• Classical Guitar: Nylon strings have lower tension, making them easier to press down. This reduces finger fatigue, especially for beginners.

• Acoustic Guitar: Steel strings have higher tension and are harder on the fingers, especially during the early stages of learning.

Impact:
Nylon strings are softer and more forgiving, making classical guitars ideal for children or beginners with sensitive fingers.

b. Neck and Fingerboard

• Classical Guitar: Wider neck makes it easier to play single-note melodies and complex chord shapes without muting strings unintentionally.

• Acoustic Guitar: Narrower neck is better suited for strumming and chords using standard pop and rock progressions.

Impact:
Wider necks may be more challenging for players with smaller hands but allow better finger separation for classical or fingerstyle techniques.

c. Body Size

• Classical Guitar: Lighter and smaller, more comfortable to hold, especially when seated.

• Acoustic Guitar: Can be bulkier, particularly in dreadnought or jumbo sizes, which may feel awkward for young players.

Impact:
The body size affects comfort, projection, and playing posture. For small children or petite adults, a 3/4 classical guitar may be ideal.

4. Sound Comparison

Classical Guitar Sound:

• Soft, mellow, and warm

• Ideal for melodic lines and harmonic richness

• Well-suited for solo performances and classical repertoire

Genres Best Suited:

• Classical music

• Flamenco

• Latin music

• Bossa nova

Acoustic Guitar Sound:

• Bright, sharp, louder

• Better for rhythmic strumming and chords

• Ideal for ensemble settings and singing along

Genres Best Suited:

• Folk

• Country

• Pop

• Indie

• Rock (unplugged styles)

5. Playing Techniques

Classical Guitar Techniques:

• Fingerstyle is the dominant technique.

• Requires precision in finger placement and right-hand coordination.

• Encourages disciplined posture and hand position.

• Often played seated with a footstool or guitar support for correct positioning.

Acoustic Guitar Techniques:

• Offers more flexibility—can be played fingerstyle or with a pick.

• Easier for casual strumming, chord progressions, and accompaniment.

• Common techniques include flatpicking, palm muting, and percussive strums.

Impact:
If you’re aiming to master traditional technique and music reading, classical guitar provides a solid foundation. For those who want to accompany singing or play rhythm guitar, the acoustic guitar is a more practical choice.

6. Ease of Learning

Classical Guitar Pros:

• Softer nylon strings are easier on the fingers.

• Encourages solid foundational technique.

• Great for young learners or beginners.

Acoustic Guitar Pros:

• More versatile for various genres.

• Popular for self-learning via online videos and tutorials.

• Great for quick progress in pop or rock songs.

Challenges:

• Classical: Demands a higher level of precision and discipline early on.

• Acoustic: Steel strings may hurt the fingertips initially, which can discourage beginners.

Verdict:
For children under 10, or those with no musical background, starting with classical guitar can be easier. Adults may prefer the acoustic guitar for its familiarity and genre versatility.

7. Educational Pathways

Classical Guitar:

• Formal training is often rooted in graded syllabi (like Trinity College London, ABRSM, or Royal Conservatory of Music).

• Strong emphasis on sight-reading, technique, and interpretation.

• Ideal for those pursuing music as a serious study or academic subject.

Acoustic Guitar:

• More open-ended and self-paced.

• Many informal resources online and offline.

• Focus on rhythm, strumming patterns, and song-based learning.

Verdict:
Classical guitar suits students aiming for music certifications or careers. Acoustic guitar is great for hobbyists and singer-songwriters.

8. Cost Considerations

Classical Guitar:

• Entry-level models are generally cheaper.

• Nylon strings are less expensive and need less frequent replacement.

• Doesn’t require many accessories.
  

Acoustic Guitar:

• Slightly higher in price for good-quality models.

• Steel strings need more frequent changing.

• Often requires accessories like a pick, capo, strap, etc.

Verdict:
Classical guitars are often the more affordable starting option, especially for young learners.

9. Performance and Ensemble Opportunities

Classical Guitar:

• Solo performance is the norm.

• Limited opportunities in bands unless pursuing specific classical or world music ensembles.

• Great for music competitions and school performances.
  

Acoustic Guitar:

• Highly adaptable to group settings—bands, duets, jam sessions.

• Easy to accompany vocals and play along with other instruments.

• Popular in open mics, cafes, and worship services.

Verdict:
If you're looking to join a band or play in social settings, the acoustic guitar offers more flexibility.

10. Transition Between the Two

Many students wonder if they can switch between classical and acoustic guitars later on. The answer is yes, but the transition requires some adjustment.

From Classical to Acoustic:

• You’ll need to get used to narrower necks and steel strings.

• Strumming technique and use of a pick might feel unfamiliar.

• Advantage: Fingerstyle skills transfer well.

From Acoustic to Classical:

• Wider neck and hand positioning may require adaptation.

• Reading notation and following classical form might be challenging.

• Advantage: Familiarity with chords and rhythm helps.

Tip:
If you're undecided, start with a hybrid model—some guitars are built to accommodate both playing styles with moderate features.

11. For Parents: Which Is Best for Your Child?

As a parent, choosing the right instrument can mean the difference between a short-term hobby and a lifelong passion.

Choose Classical Guitar if:

• Your child is below 10 years old

• You want them to follow a structured music education

• You prefer a soft tone and want to avoid finger pain

• You’re aiming for music exams and certifications

Choose Acoustic Guitar if:

• Your child is above 10 and interested in pop, rock, or folk music

• They want to sing and play guitar simultaneously

• You’re looking for informal, song-based learning

• You want them to join school bands or social groups

Pro Tip:
At Three Stars Music Academy, we offer trial classes where your child can experience both types before committing.

12. Common Myths and Misconceptions

Myth 1: Acoustic guitar is harder to learn than classical.

Fact:
Both have their own challenges. Classical is technique-heavy; acoustic can be tough on the fingers initially.

Myth 2: Classical guitars are only for classical music.

Fact:
While they’re ideal for classical music, many Latin, jazz, and even folk musicians use nylon-string guitars creatively.

Myth 3: You must start with classical before acoustic.

Fact:
Not necessarily. Your musical goals should guide the decision, not rigid rules.