Best Acoustic-Electric Guitars of 2025

Nicole Kim Avatar
Nicole Kim
Last Updated: Jan 13, 2025

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Acoustic-electric guitars are a versatile and popular choice for musicians of all skill levels. These guitars combine the warm and rich sound of an acoustic guitar with the convenience of an electric guitar. With built-in electronics, acoustic-electric guitars can be plugged into an amplifier or sound system for live performances or recording sessions. They also typically have a cutaway design, allowing for easier access to the higher frets. Whether you're a singer-songwriter looking for a guitar to accompany your vocals, or a guitarist looking to expand your sound, an acoustic-electric guitar is a great option.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fender FA-25CE Acoustic Electric Guitar Cover #TOP 1
Fender FA-25CE Acoustic Electric Guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Enya NOVA Go SP1 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle Cover #TOP 2
Enya NOVA Go SP1 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package Cover #TOP 3
Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Acoustic-Electric Guitars

#TOP 1

Fender FA-25CE Acoustic Electric Guitar

0971913032
Sunburst
Full
Fender FA-25CE Acoustic Electric Guitar Cover
Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Built-in Tuner and On-Board Volume and Tone Controls, Comes with Free Lessons, Sunburst

The Fender Acoustic Electric Guitar is an excellent choice for beginners of all ages. Its dreadnought body shape produces a rich bass tone, making it perfect for genres like country and folk. You’ll appreciate the comfortable "C" shaped neck and walnut fingerboard, which make playing enjoyable and effortless. The lightweight all-laminate body ensures portability, so you can practice anywhere. Additionally, the built-in tuner simplifies the tuning process, ensuring your guitar is always ready for a jam session or performance. Plus, you’ll receive a free subscription to Fender Play, giving you access to thousands of instructional videos to enhance your skills.

What We Like
Great value for the money
Built-in tuner and preamp
Good sound quality
Ideal for beginners
Decent build quality
What We Don't Like
Some finish quality issues
Minor setup adjustments needed
#TOP 2

Enya NOVA Go SP1 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle

NOVA GO/BK SP1
Black
Acoustic-Electric
Enya NOVA Go SP1 Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle Cover
Enya NOVA Go SP1 Carbon Fiber Acoustic Electric Guitar with Smart AcousticPlus 35 Inch Travel Acustica Guitarra Starter Bundle Kit of Gig Bag, Strap, Strings, Charging Cable, Instrument Cable(Black)

The Enya SP1 Guitar Bundle is a carbon fiber acoustic-electric guitar that stays stable in various environments, making it perfect for travel and outdoor use. Its SP1 pickup system offers reverb, delay, and fusion effects without the need for extra equipment. When plugged into an amp, it becomes a versatile tool for performances. The solid build and easy playability, along with practical accessories like a gig bag and USB Type-C cable, make it a convenient and enjoyable instrument for guitar enthusiasts.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Lightweight and durable
Easy to play out of the box
Fun onboard effects
Unique aesthetic appeal
What We Don't Like
Effects could be more advanced
Case design may vary
#TOP 3

Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package

21637111
Black
Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package Cover
Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Thinline Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package - Premium Tonewoods - Black

The Ashthorpe Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package is a versatile instrument that delivers incredible sound, making it perfect for both beginners and advanced players. The guitar is constructed with fine hardwood, including X-braced, A-grade Spruce wood for resilience and Basswood for warmth. This combination ensures a responsive and tonally rich sound, whether you're playing softly or strumming with intensity. The thinline cutaway design allows for easy access to the top frets and adds to the overall aesthetic of the guitar. Additionally, the guitar is loaded with upgrades such as an on-board 4-band pickup/EQ, upgraded phosphor bronze strings, and a glossy finish with chrome tuning pegs. With the complete kit, including a gig bag, picks, shoulder strap, and extra strings, the Ashthorpe Acoustic-Electric Guitar Package has everything you need to start playing right away.

What We Like
Good sound quality
Comfortable thin body
Budget-friendly price
Easy to play for beginners
Includes extra strings
What We Don't Like
Minor fret finishing issues
Basic accessories quality
#TOP 4

Yamaha APX600 BL Acoustic-Electric Guitar

APX600 BL
Black
Thin Body
Yamaha APX600 BL Acoustic-Electric Guitar Cover
Yamaha APX600 BL Thin Body Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Black

The Yamaha APX600 BL Thin Body Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a great choice for electric guitarists who want to play acoustic on stage. It features a unique under-saddle piezo pickup, the Yamaha proprietary SRT transducer, a natural tone, and feedback rejection and mix-friendly sound. It has a thin-line cutaway body design for exceptional playability, a 25" scale length and narrower string spacing for enhanced comfort, and a new scalloped bracing pattern for increased bass response. It also has an abalone sound hole rosette and a stage-focused pickup system for shaping your sound in the mix.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Well-built and solid
Built-in tuner
Thin body design
Good value for money
What We Don't Like
Action may be too high
Neck may feel narrow
#TOP 5

Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Guitar

FGX800C
Natural
Dreadnought
Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Guitar Cover
Yamaha FGX800C Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Dreadnought

The Yamaha FGX800C Acoustic-Electric Guitar has a solid Sitka Spruce top, Nato back & sides, Rosewood fingerboard & bridge, and diecast tuners. It features System 66, which includes an under-saddle piezo pickup with a 3-band EQ, an adjustable mid-range frequency control, and a chromatic tuner for sound customization. Additionally, this guitar comes with an adjustable truss rod to help maintain proper neck alignment over time.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Well-built and durable
Comfortable to play
Good value for money
Suitable for all skill levels
What We Don't Like
Bridge spacing may feel cramped
Factory strings may need replacement

Fender Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle

AUS-0971190231-COMBO-DLX-CPL
Natural
Fender Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle Cover
Fender Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Natural Bundle with Gig Bag, Strap, Strings, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Instructional Video

The Fender Dreadnought Guitar is a perfect choice for beginners of all ages. Its dreadnought body shape delivers a rich bass tone, making it ideal for country, folk, and bluegrass music. You'll appreciate the comfortable "C"-shaped neck and walnut fingerboard that allow for easy playability, ensuring you can focus on learning and enjoying music. The reliable sealed-gear tuning machines keep your guitar in tune, while the walnut bridge enhances the overall sound quality. With this guitar, you can experience a blend of quality craftsmanship and modern features.

What We Like
Great quality for the price
Fun to play
Good sound quality
Beautiful sunburst color
Includes nice gig bag
What We Don't Like
Minor cosmetic flaws
Possible shipping issues
#TOP 7

Donner Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit

Retro
41 Inch
Donner Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit Cover
Donner Acoustic Electric Guitar Full Size Kit for Beginner Intermediate with Amplifier Capo Pick Tuner Strings Strap - 41 Inch

The Donner Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Kit is a 41-inch dreadnought body guitar with a slim body design and spruce top that can produce rich and bright sound. It has a built-in passive guitar pickup with Volume/Tone control, allowing for amplified use. The kit includes a Donner exclusive sound amplifier, tuner, capo, and other accessories, making it an all-in-one set for acoustic-electric guitar users. The classic all-wood cutaway gloss body design and high-precision polishing process also offer comfortable feel and exquisite workmanship.

What We Like
Great value for beginners
Good sound quality
Includes amplifier and accessories
Well-packaged for shipment
Comfortable neck for playing
What We Don't Like
Flimsy guitar case
Customer service response issues
#TOP 8

Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle

0961590221 FGPAC2
All Mahogany
CD-60SCE
Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle Cover
Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar - All Mahogany Bundle with Hard Case, Tuner, Instrument Cable, Strap, Strings, Picks, Polishing Cloth and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD

The Fender CD-60SCE Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle includes everything you need to start playing immediately. This all-mahogany guitar has a single-cutaway dreadnought body style, a Fishman Classic Design pickup/preamp, and a solid spruce top with scalloped "X"-bracing. The mahogany back and sides, easy-to-play neck with rolled fingerboard edges make it ideal for beginners. The bundle comes with a hard case, clip-on tuner, strap, picks, and an instructional DVD.

What We Like
Quality sound and acoustics
Great value bundle
Beautiful design and finish
Low action, easy to play
Durable hard case included
What We Don't Like
Minor setup issues noted
Inaccurate product description
#TOP 9

Yamaha 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar

APXT2 BL
Black
3/4-size
Yamaha 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar Cover
Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar - Black

The Yamaha APXT2 3/4-Size Acoustic-Electric Guitar in black is perfect for smaller players or those who travel frequently. It features a spruce top and rosewood fingerboard and bridge, providing a rich and balanced sound. The System 68 Pick-Up allows you to amplify your sound for performances or recording. The included gig bag makes it easy to transport and protect your guitar. The bridge pins are made of black ABS, adding a sleek touch to the design.

What We Like
Lightweight and portable
Impressive sound quality
Beautiful craftsmanship
Built-in tuner
Easy for beginners
What We Don't Like
Tuning pegs could be better
Somewhat tinny unplugged sound
#TOP 10

Ktaxon 41in Acoustic-Electric Guitar

KT-CUTAWAY G-0456
Full
Ktaxon 41in Acoustic-Electric Guitar Cover
Ktaxon 41in Acoustic-Electric Guitar, 6 String Cutaway Guitar with EQ-7545R Bass Preamp with Four-Band EQ, Unique Round-back Design, Fantastic Touch, Accurate Tune and Unmatched Sound (Red)

Ktaxon Guitar features a round-back design for fabulous sound, allowing clear and bright tones. The smooth fretboard provides a fantastic touch, making playing comfortable. Its tuning knob ensures accurate pitch adjustment, maintaining tone quality. With an adjustable neck design, you can easily customize the curvature for a comfortable playing position. The unique cutaway shape enables access to high notes effortlessly. This guitar is a versatile option for musicians seeking quality sound and comfort.

What We Like
Great sound quality
Attractive appearance
Good playability
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Requires professional setup
Inconsistent electronics quality
Buying Guide Image

Basic Information to Help You Figure out the Best Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Understanding Acoustic-Electric Guitars

Acoustic-electric guitars, also known as electro-acoustic guitars, are a type of guitar that can be played acoustically or amplified through an external sound system or amplifier. This makes them a versatile choice for musicians who want the option to play both acoustically and electrically.

Consider Your Playing Style

When choosing an acoustic-electric guitar, it's important to consider your playing style. If you primarily play acoustically and only occasionally plug in, you may want to prioritize the acoustic sound of the guitar. On the other hand, if you plan on using the electric capabilities of the guitar more frequently, you may want to prioritize the electric sound.

Body Shape and Size

Another factor to consider is the body shape and size of the guitar. The shape and size of the body can affect the sound of the guitar, so it's important to choose a guitar that feels comfortable to play and produces the sound you want.

Pickup and Preamp System

A pickup is a transducer that converts the vibrations of the guitar's strings into an electrical signal. An acoustic-electric guitar will typically have at least one pickup, and some models may have multiple pickups. The type of pickup and its placement on the guitar can affect the sound, so it's important to try out different guitars and experiment with the pickup settings to find the sound you like.

The preamp system is the electronics that amplify the signal from the pickup and shape the sound of the guitar. Some preamp systems have more control over the sound than others, so it's important to consider the features of the preamp system when choosing an acoustic-electric guitar.

Price and Brand

Of course, price and brand are also important factors to consider when choosing an acoustic-electric guitar. There are many brands and models to choose from, and the price can range from affordable to very expensive. It's important to set a budget and research the options within your price range to find a guitar that suits your needs and preferences.

Try Before You Buy

It's always a good idea to try out a guitar before you buy it. This will give you a chance to see how the guitar feels and sounds, and to make sure it's the right choice for you. Many music stores have a selection of acoustic-electric guitars that you can try out, so take advantage of this opportunity and try out as many guitars as you can.

Conclusion

Choosing the right acoustic-electric guitar can be a challenging decision, but it's worth taking the time to find the right one for your needs and preferences. Consider your playing style, the body shape and size, the pickup and preamp system, the price and brand, and try out the guitar before you make your decision. With a little research and experimentation, you can find the perfect acoustic-electric guitar for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are electric acoustic guitars easier to play?

Electric acoustic guitars can be easier to play for beginners because they often have thinner necks and smaller overall sizes compared to traditional acoustic guitars. The smaller size and thinner neck can make it slightly easier to learn and play the guitar.

2. Do acoustic electric guitars sound like acoustic?

Yes, acoustic electric guitars sound like traditional acoustic guitars when unplugged. The main difference is that acoustic-electric guitars have a pickup system that allows you to plug them into an amplifier to increase volume and modify the tone. When not plugged in, they produce the same sound as regular acoustic guitars.

3. Can you play an acoustic-electric guitar without plugging it in?

Yes, you can play an acoustic-electric guitar without plugging it into an amplifier. When unplugged, an acoustic-electric guitar functions and sounds just like a standard acoustic guitar. It is not necessary to have the guitar connected to an amp for it to be played.

4. Do you need an acoustic amp for an acoustic-electric guitar?

To fully utilize the features of an acoustic-electric guitar, it is recommended to use an acoustic guitar amplifier. While you can use a regular electric guitar amp, using an amp specifically designed for acoustic guitars can enhance the sonic output and provide better sound quality for your instrument.

Editor's Notes

During our acoustic-electric guitar research, we found 24 acoustic-electric guitar products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 48,078 customer reviews through our big data system to write the acoustic-electric guitars list. We found that most customers choose acoustic-electric guitars with an average price of $248.95.

The acoustic-electric guitars are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of acoustic-electric guitars, including Fender, enya, Ashthorpe, YAMAHA, Donner. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Nicole Kim Avatar

Nicole Kim has been a music teacher and a private piano instructor for six years now. She is a very talented musician who plays piano to a high standard and won several awards in international piano competitions. Lately, she has been sharing her music expertise online, giving incredible tips on how to select the right musical instruments.

Acoustic-Electric Guitars Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Fender enya Ashthorpe YAMAHA YAMAHA Fender Donner Fender Yamaha Ktaxon
Body Material Basswood Carbon Fiber Metal Mahogany Mahogany Basswood Spruce, Mahogany Wood Mahogany Meranti Rosewood, Metal
Color Sunburst Black Black Black Natural Natural Retro All Mahogany Black Red
Top Material Type Spruce Wood Carbon Fiber spruce Spruce Spruce Wood Spruce Wood Spruce Wood Mahogany Wood, Spruce Wood Spruce Wood Spruce
Back Material Type Laminated Basswood Carbon Fiber Basswood Mahogany Nato/Okoume Laminated Basswood Mahogany Mahogany Wood Rosewood Basswood
String Material Type Bronze Phosphor Bronze Phosphor Bronze Nickel Phosphor Bronze Bronze Phosphor Bronze Phosphor Bronze Phosphor Bronze Alloy Steel
Hand Orientation Right Right Right Right Right Right Right Right Right Right
Guitar Pickup Configuration S SP1 Combination - Piezo S piezoelectric Piezo piezo Piezoelectric
Neck Material Type Nato Wood Carbon Fiber Okoume Wood Mahogany Nato Wood Nato Wood Mahogany Mahogany Nato/Mahogany -
Guitar Bridge System Fixed Fixed Adjustable Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed - Adjustable Tune-O-Matic
Back Material Laminated Basswood Carbon Fiber Basswood Mahogany - Laminated Basswood Mahogany - Rosewood Basswood
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
Where to Buy