3/4 vs. Full-Size Guitars: Which One Should You Choose? | Zager Guitar
Are you ready to rock out on your guitar? Before you dive into strumming and shredding, there’s one major decision you’ll have to make as a beginner (or even as a pro on the go):
Should you get a 3/4-size guitar or a full-size guitar?
With so many sizes, styles, and options, choosing your first guitar can be overwhelming. But don’t worry—we’ve got your back!
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between 3/4 and full-size guitars, and then show you some of the best options on the market to help you find the perfect match for your style, comfort, and budget.
🆚 What’s the Difference?
Feature | 3/4 Guitar | Full-Size Guitar |
---|---|---|
Size | ~36" x 13" | ~40" x 15" |
Scale Length | 20"–24" | 24" and up |
Weight | Lightweight | Heavier |
String Tension | Lower (easier on fingers, but needs tuning more often) | Higher (more stable tuning) |
Sound | Bright but less full | Rich, warm, and resonant |
Best For | Kids, small hands, travelers, beginners | Most adult players, professionals, studio work |
Price Range | ~$100–$800 | ~$200–$5000+ |
In short:
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3/4 guitars are compact, easy to play, and perfect for younger or smaller players.
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Full-size guitars offer superior sound and performance but can be more challenging for beginners to handle.
🎶 Best 3/4 Acoustic Guitars
1. Zager 3/4 Travel Acoustic Guitar
💸 Price: $795
✅ Great for travelers, high-quality build, custom feel
Don’t let the size fool you—this travel-sized beauty is packed with pro-level features. Crafted with solid wood, custom neck, and a unique bracing system, it delivers tone and playability you'd expect from guitars twice the price.
And with a 100% money-back guarantee, you can try it risk-free!
2. Taylor GS Mini-e Mahogany
💸 Price: $799
✅ Legendary Taylor tone in a smaller body
This isn't just a beginner's guitar—it’s a pro-quality instrument in a smaller frame.
With a mahogany top and onboard electronics, it delivers a warm, rich tone, and lets you plug in when you’re ready to perform.
From the Ebony fretboard to the Sapele body, every detail screams quality.
3. Yamaha JR1 FG 3/4 Acoustic Guitar
💸 Price: $200
✅ Budget-friendly and beginner-approved
The JR1 is a great starter guitar with a Sitka spruce top and a rosewood fretboard. It may lack a bit of low-end punch, but it’s easy to play, durable, and a great first step for young musicians or hobbyists.
4. Gretsch G9520E ‘Gin Rickey’ Acoustic-Electric
💸 Price: $389
✅ Retro vibes, electric sound
This guitar oozes style and personality, with a Smokestack Black finish and a Gretsch Deltoluxe pickup.
It has a strong unplugged tone, but really shines when amplified—perfect for blues, slide guitar, or gigging on a budget.
5. Cordoba Cadete 3/4 Classical Guitar
💸 Price: $389
✅ Nylon strings, classical vibe
If you’re into fingerstyle or want to explore classical guitar, the Cordoba Cadete is a gem. The solid cedar top, mahogany neck, and rosewood fretboard offer warm tones and comfortable playability, ideal for both beginners and experienced players.
🎸 Best Full-Size Acoustic Guitars
1. Zager Pro Series 900CE Acoustic-Electric
💸 Price: $2395
✅ Top-tier tone, pro features, lifetime guarantee
This is a serious instrument for serious players. The custom bracing system, hand-laid abalone inlay, and Fishman Aura electronics give you studio-quality sound on stage or in the studio.
One of the best guitars you can buy under $5K—with a lifetime warranty to back it up.
2. Yamaha FG800
💸 Price: $229
✅ Best beginner full-size acoustic
You won’t find better tone in this price range. With a solid Sitka spruce top, maple fretboard, and reliable build quality, it’s perfect for beginners who want a guitar that will grow with them.
3. Seagull S6 Original
💸 Price: $799
✅ Handmade in Canada, bright tone, great value
This fan-favorite guitar features a solid cedar top with cherry back and sides for a distinct, crisp tone. It’s fantastic for fingerpicking and rhythm playing, and built to last for years.
A great step-up for intermediate players.
🎯 Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Get?
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✅ Go with a 3/4 guitar if you're a beginner, young player, have smaller hands, or need a portable guitar for travel.
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✅ Go with a full-size guitar if you're an adult, want better sound quality, or are planning to perform or record seriously.
🎸 Pro tip: If you're unsure, try them both out at a local music store. Comfort and playability matter more than size labels.
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