November 2023

Acoustic Guitars: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of acoustic guitars rankings posted by key online experts, as of November 2023.

Summary

On 7 Nov 2023, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 102 acoustic guitar endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

74 acoustic guitars were endorsed in total, only 13 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 7 Nov 2023, Yamaha FG800 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed acoustic guitar with 6 expert endorsements. 2 experts out of 6 recommended it as the '#1 acoustic guitar' this month.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking acoustic guitars start at $64.99 (Best Choice Products SKY119) and go up to $5999 (Taylor Builder’s Edition K14ce). Median acoustic guitar costs $559 (Washburn Woodline O12SE).
$64.99
$5999

At a glance - November Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Acoustic Guitar
Six String Acoustic
Guitar Chalk
GuitarPlayer
The Strategist
Music Radar
KBonet
Guitar World
Music Grotto
Old Time Music
Music Critic
1
- $230
Yamaha FG800
The Yamaha FG800 is a highly regarded full-sized dreadnought acoustic guitar known for its powerful sound projection, comfortable playability, exceptional sound quality, and solid construction.
6
3
1
-
-
-
3
16
-
1
2
- $599
Taylor GS Mini
The Taylor GS Mini is a highly versatile and durable guitar that offers excellent sound quality in a compact and portable design, making it a popular choice for travelers and musicians of all skill levels.
1
2
3
-
3
-
4
3
-
-
3
- Check price
Fender CD 60S
The Fender CD 60S acoustic guitar is highly praised for its comfortable playability, impressive sound quality, and durable construction, making it a reliable and budget-friendly option for musicians of all levels.
-
-
-
-
4
-
1
1
-
-
4
- $499
Martin LX1E Little Martin
The Martin LX1E Little Martin is a highly portable and comfortable acoustic guitar with impressive sound quality and durability, making it a great choice for travelers and musicians of all levels.
-
-
-
1
-
-
6
8
-
3
5
- Check price
Seagull S6 Original
The Seagull S6 Original is a highly praised dreadnought-size acoustic guitar known for its exceptional comfort, playability, sound quality, and durability, making it suitable for guitarists of all levels and musical needs.
-
4
-
-
-
-
8
-
4
7
6
- $549
Epiphone EJ-200SCE
The Epiphone EJ-200SCE is a jumbo-sized acoustic guitar known for its powerful sound, comfortable playing experience, and versatility.
-
-
-
-
5
-
-
6
6
-
7
- $169
Epiphone DR-100
The Epiphone DR-100 is a highly recommended acoustic guitar known for its well-balanced sound, comfortable playability, and portability, making it suitable for various musical styles and ideal for beginners and experienced players alike.
-
-
-
-
-
-
7
17
-
6
8
- $449
Epiphone Hummingbird PRO
The Epiphone Hummingbird PRO is a highly regarded and versatile acoustic guitar that offers comfort, playability, and a pleasing sound quality, making it suitable for various musical styles.
-
-
-
-
-
-
2
-
5
-
13
- $949
Martin Road Series D-10E
-
7
-
-
-
3
-
-
-
-
14
- $189
Gretsch Jim Dandy G9500
The Gretsch Jim Dandy G9500 is a compact and comfortable parlor-sized guitar with impressive sound quality and durability, making it a great option for musicians of all skill levels.
-
-
-
2
10
-
-
-
-
-
15
- $499
Martin Junior DJR-10
The Martin Junior DJR-10 acoustic guitar is a smaller-sized instrument with a dreadnought body shape, known for its powerful and balanced sound projection, making it a versatile and comfortable choice for beginners, players with small hands, and frequent travelers.
-
-
-
6
11
-
-
-
-
-
16
+1 $3199
Martin D-28
The Martin D-28 is a versatile and high-quality dreadnought acoustic guitar known for its powerful sound projection, exceptional sound quality, and comfortable playability.
-
-
14
-
-
-
-
7
-
-
17
+1 Check price
Gibson Hummingbird Original
The Gibson Hummingbird Original is a highly recommended acoustic guitar known for its excellent bass response, well-balanced tone, and exceptional sound quality, making it a versatile option for musicians of all styles.
-
-
12
-
12
-
-
-
-
-

; ; ;
#3 $139.99 Fender CD 60S
#7 $169 Epiphone DR-100
#14 $189 Gretsch Jim Dandy G9500
#1 $229.99 Yamaha FG800
#8 $449 Epiphone Hummingbird PRO
#4 $499 Martin LX1E Little Martin
#15 $499 Martin Junior DJR-10
#6 $549 Epiphone EJ-200SCE
#2 $599 Taylor GS Mini
#13 $949 Martin Road Series D-10E
#16 $3199 Martin D-28

We ranked Yamaha FG800 #1 in November 2023 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
  • Out of those, 2 experts ranked Yamaha FG800 as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Six String Acoustic

Go to ranking

Guitar Chalk

Fantastic price point
Solid Spruce top
Maple fretboard
Guitar looks and plays like a mid-range acoustic

Strings will need changed
Tone can sound a bit thin depending on the type of music you're into

Go to ranking

GuitarPlayer

Yamaha’s budget acoustic delivers tone beyond its call of duty

Solid spruce top a real treat at this price
Blends well with vocals
Deep, rich tone

Lacks any added extras

Go to ranking

Guitar World

A best-seller at the budget end of the best beginners acoustic guitar market

Great sound for the money
Good build quality
Low price

No electronics

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Affordable Solid Wood Option

The solid spruce top is rare for this price range
Scalloped bracing for durability
Excellent range of tones

The action might be a little high
Doesn't typically come with any accessories

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Our Recommendation

Comfortable to play
Sound offers clarity and punch
Made from materials found in higher-end products
Great price

Go to ranking

We ranked Taylor GS Mini #2 in November 2023 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Taylor GS Mini as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Six String Acoustic

Go to ranking

Guitar Chalk

Tonewood combinations look great (especially Koa)
Tone is both bright and warm at the same time
Sounds great for melodic, fingerpicking styles
Price point is awesome for a solid top Taylor acoustic
ES-B pickup/preamp system is a nice addition

None

Go to ranking

GuitarPlayer

Probably one of the best non-full size acoustic guitars out there

Bold, punchy tone
Good pickup system
Perfect for travelling

Shorter scale might take some getting used to

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best acoustic guitar for travelling

+Amazing playability
+Incredible build quality
+Full sounding despite the size

Cedar-topped and nylon-stringed versions would be nice

Go to ranking

Guitar World

High-end versatility and tonal quality at an entry-level price

High quality tone
Extremely versatile sounds
Wonderful build quality

Doesn’t have the volume of a full size

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Best Small Bodied Guitar

Compact symphony body is accessible for smaller body types
True, clear highs
Excellent playability

Laminate back and sides
No nylon version (a Symphony standard)

Go to ranking

Methodology: combine opinions of key experts

Identify Experts

We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend acoustic guitars.

Capture Rankings

For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of acoustic guitars, it must be updated in the last 9 months.

Aggregate Rankings

We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking

Experts chosen for November 2023 ranking

We ranked Fender CD 60S #3 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
  • Out of those, 2 experts ranked Fender CD 60S as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Music Radar

One of the best acoustic guitars under $200 right now

Superb value for money
Nice low action out the box
Excellent tonal balance

Glossy finish may put some players off

Go to ranking

Guitar World

The best acoustic guitar for beginners seeking a big brand name

Balanced sound
Stays in tune
Entry-level price

Individual looks may put some off

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Beginner's Guitar

Solid wood top for tonal clarity
Rolled fretboard edge is easy for beginners to guitar to use.
Affordable guitar without sacrificing playability

Laminate back and sides
The classic dreadnought body is a little bulky

Go to ranking

We ranked Martin LX1E Little Martin #4 in November 2023 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Martin LX1E Little Martin as #1.
Critic endorsements:
The Strategist

Best overall acoustic guitar for beginners

Go to ranking

Guitar World

Versatility and stellar sound in a pint-sized package

Excellent build quality
Great volume for the size
Electro tonal variety

May be too small for adult befinners
Higher end of beginner price range

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Best Travel Acoustic

Easy to travel with
Entry-level Martin option
Durable construction

Doesn't suit larger hands
May not have the range of tones of higher-end Martins

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Best Value

Easy to carry around.
Rich tone and resonance for a great performance.
Big gig bag that allows protection.

Go to ranking

We ranked Seagull S6 Original #5 in November 2023 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Guitar Chalk

Solid Cedar top
Wild Cherry for the back and sides makes for a unique tone
Maple fretboard
Great price point
Pickup & preamp version available

None for the price

Go to ranking

Guitar World

Premium quality in a guitar that’s built to last

Optimum build quality
Sweet and versatile sound
Good for fingerpicking

No electronics onboard

Go to ranking

Old Time Music

Well-made with very good materials and fittings.
A rich, warm cedar top sound.

It might be rather large for young beginners.

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Reliable for live performances.
Easy and comfortable to use, especially for beginners.

Go to ranking

We ranked Epiphone EJ-200SCE #6 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Music Radar

The best acoustic guitar on a budget for plugged-in performance

Good price for a solid top
Massive jumbo tones
Eye-catching J-200 styling

The large size isn't for everyone

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Best Budget Jumbo

Internal hardware punches up
Jumbo bodied acoustic with booming low end
Well suited for rhythm players

Loses some clarity on the high end
The large body is harder for some people to play

Go to ranking

Old Time Music

Plenty of style and swagger, it has the look.
A great sounding guitar that has a nice easy playing action.

The purists may not like the cutaway that’s been added.

Go to ranking

We ranked Epiphone DR-100 #7 in November 2023 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Guitar World

Good build quality and surprising tone is yours for a low,low price

Good build quality
Easy player
Can’t go wrong for just over $100

Not the most exciting beginner guitar

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Most Potential Upgrades

An affordable option for beginners
Responds well to customization
Holds tuning exceptionally well for a guitar of its class

Carries a huge logo across the bridge
Brighter tone than comparable guitar bodies

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Dot markers that make playing more convenient.
Consistent performance.
Durable and convenient to carry around.

Go to ranking

We ranked Epiphone Hummingbird PRO #8 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Guitar World

The best acoustic guitar for beginners who want heritage pedigree

Excellent sound
Versatile pre-amp
Easy player

-The large body may not suit smaller players

Go to ranking

Old Time Music

Great sound, well made with good materials.
Good pickup and preamp and effective tone controls.

No onboard tuner.

Go to ranking

We ranked Martin Road Series D-10E #9 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Guitar Chalk

Solid top, back and sides
Spruce bracing
Fishman Sonitone preamp/pickup system
Warm tone, ideal for strumming
Includes a hardshell case

Laminate Sapele isn't particularly exciting

Go to ranking

KBonet

Best Budget Buy

Chrome hardware for durability
Sapele body provides the warm sound you need
Saves you money for the hardshell case
The sound is rich and remains balanced

A bit heavy

Go to ranking

We ranked Gretsch Jim Dandy G9500 #10 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
The Strategist

Best less-expensive small-body acoustic guitar for beginners

Go to ranking

Music Radar

A brilliant, low-cost guitar for sofa strumming

Superb value for money
Comfortable playability
Great for beginners

Fretboard can feel cramped
Not the loudest

Go to ranking

We ranked Martin Junior DJR-10 #11 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
The Strategist

Best smaller-bodied,solid-wood acoustic guitar for beginners

Go to ranking

Music Radar

When it comes to the best acoustic guitars, we love this dreadnought

Punchy mid-range tones
Classic Martin sound
Smaller body is comfy

Lacks depth of a full-sized dread

Go to ranking

We ranked Martin D-28 #12 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
GuitarPlayer

Grab your very own ‘golden era’ Martin without needing a second mortgage

One of the most iconic acoustics of all time
Adirondack spruce is highly sought after
Still cheaper than a genuine ‘30s D-28

Price is still pretty eye-watering
The vintage sound isn't for everyone

Go to ranking

Music Grotto

Best Dreadnought

Aged top that retains a wide range of notes
Little high end features with Martin's minimalist design
Quick response

The newer design loses some of Martin's signature sonic tones
High-end investment

Go to ranking

We ranked Gibson Hummingbird Original #13 in November 2023 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best acoustic guitars” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
GuitarPlayer

An iconic, inspirational square-shoulder dread’

Sounds absolutely massive
Spruce & mahogany is a dream combination
Heritage Cherry Sunburst in particular looks dreamy

Huge sound comes at the expense of comfort
Not everyone likes the look

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The iconic Gibson songbird, loved by folk, rock and country players

Structurally fantastic
Practically sonically faultless
LR Baggs electronics capture unplugged tone impeccably

The colour might not be to everyone’s taste

Go to ranking