Best Nylon-String Guitars of 2025

Nicole Kim Avatar
Nicole Kim
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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Nylon-string guitars, also known as classical guitars, are a popular choice for musicians who want a softer, more mellow sound. These guitars have nylon strings instead of steel strings, which produce a warmer tone and are easier on the fingers. Nylon-string guitars are typically used in classical, flamenco, and bossa nova music, but can also be used for folk and popular music. They come in a variety of sizes, from full-size to small-scale, making them a versatile option for musicians of all ages and skill levels. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, a nylon-string guitar is a great choice for anyone looking to add a touch of elegance to their music.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Fender FA-25N Acoustic Guitar Cover #TOP 1
Fender FA-25N Acoustic Guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Yamaha NTX1 NT Acoustic-electric guitar Cover #TOP 2
Yamaha NTX1 NT Acoustic-electric guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Cordoba C5 CD Classical Nylon String Guitar Cover #TOP 3
Cordoba C5 CD Classical Nylon String Guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Nylon-String Guitars

#TOP 1

Fender FA-25N Acoustic Guitar

0971940021
Natural - 3/4 Size
Fender FA-25N Acoustic Guitar Cover
Fender FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Perfect Beginner Guitar for Kids that is Easy on Fingers, Includes Free Lessons, Natural

The Fender Beginner Nylon Guitar is a 3/4 size acoustic guitar suitable for both kids and adults. With a 75-year legacy of quality, this guitar offers the sound and style of Fender's iconic guitars tailored for beginners. You'll receive a free Fender Play subscription with instructional videos to enhance your skills. Its smaller size makes it ideal for children and beginners, providing ease of learning and playability. The open-gear tuning machine ensures accurate tuning, while the soft nylon strings and smooth walnut bridge offer a gentle introduction to playing.

What We Like
Affordable price
Good for beginners
Rich tone
Lightweight and travel-friendly
Easy to tune
What We Don't Like
Poor fret finishing
Minor neck adjustments needed
#TOP 2

Yamaha NTX1 NT Acoustic-electric guitar

NTX1 NT
Natural
Yamaha NTX1 NT Acoustic-electric guitar Cover
Yamaha NTX1 NT Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon-String Classical Guitar, Natural

The Yamaha NTX1 NT Acoustic-electric guitar has a modern look and comfortable feel that's perfect for both electric and steel-string players. It features an advanced preamp and pickup system with an onboard tuner, solid spruce top, hardtail bridge, and combination pickup configuration. This guitar is designed for right-handed players and falls under the category of Classical & Nylon-String Guitars.

What We Like
Well-balanced tone
Easy to play
Great craftsmanship
Attractive design
Good value for price
What We Don't Like
Minor cosmetic issues
Basic pickup system

Cordoba C5 CD Classical Nylon String Guitar

Withouth Gig Bag
Natural
Classical
Cordoba C5 CD Classical Nylon String Guitar Cover
Cordoba C5 CD Classical Acoustic Nylon String Guitar, Iberia Series

The Cordoba C5 CD is an entry-level classical guitar ideal for aspiring guitarists who want the warm sound of nylon strings and comfortable playability. This lightweight model is built with a solid Cedar top and Mahogany back and sides that produce a clear, powerful tone with beautiful sustain. Beginners will appreciate the lightweight and easy-to-play nylon strings, while the 52mm nut width and high-tension Savarez Cristal Corum strings make it perfect for experienced players. The natural wood color and grain create a unique appearance, which may vary from the product shown here.

What We Like
Incredible sound for the price
Excellent build quality
Suitable for all experience levels
Beautiful wood and finish
Great intonation and sustain
What We Don't Like
Setup could be improved
Standard neck coating
#TOP 4

ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar Kit

adm
JA101-BL
Blue
ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar Kit Cover
ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar 30 Inch Nylon Strings Wooden Guitar Bundle Kit for Kid Boy Girl Student Youth Guitarra Online Lessons with Gig Bag, Strap, Tuner, Extra Strings, Picks,Blue

The ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar Kit is a 30-inch guitar made of laminated basswood with a maple rosewood fingerboard and bridge. It features a clean, amazing sound with an arched back for longer sustain and fuller sound. The kit includes everything a budding musician needs, including a case, picks, shoulder strap, digital E-tuner, extra replacement strings, and one month of free lessons. This guitar is a great starting instrument for beginners and students and makes for a perfect gift for young players.

What We Like
Great for beginners
Good sound quality for price
Includes helpful accessories
Short learning curve
What We Don't Like
Some tuning issues
High action for beginners
#TOP 5

WINZZ 4/4 Classical Guitar Kit

AC309
Glossy Brown
WINZZ 4/4 Classical Guitar Kit Cover
WINZZ 4/4 Classical Guitar, 39 Inch Full Size Nylon String Guitar for Beginner Adults, Full Classic Guitar Kit with Free Lessons, Gig Bag, Footstool, Capo, Tuner, Hanger and Strap (Glossy Brown)

The WINZZ Classical Guitar is a complete package designed for beginners. It includes everything you need to start playing right away, such as a gig bag, tuner, capo, and more. You'll also receive one month of free lessons to guide you on your musical journey. Crafted from high-quality materials, this guitar produces a bright and balanced sound, enhancing your overall experience. Its elegant design makes it suitable for various occasions, whether you're practicing at home or performing on stage.

What We Like
Beautiful design
Great sound quality
Includes accessories
Good for beginners
Excellent value for price
What We Don't Like
Minor issues for beginners
#TOP 6

Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar

C40II
Full Size
Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar Cover
Yamaha 6 String Beginner Scale Classical Guitar, Natural Finish, Right Handed, Full Size (C40II)

The Yamaha C40II Classical Guitar is a great choice for beginner guitarists. It features a spruce top, meranti back and sides, and a rosewood fingerboard and bridge. The gloss finish gives it a great look and the strings are low tension for easy playing. Customer reviews praise its build quality, intonation, and tone. However, some customers have reported issues with the action being too high and the bottom seam cracking.

What We Like
Excellent sound quality
Great value for money
Sturdy and well-built
Suitable for beginners and pros
Comfortable playability
What We Don't Like
Slightly high action
No truss rod
#TOP 7

TARIO Silent Classical Guitar

GA-100-C
Natural Wood
TARIO Silent Classical Guitar Cover
TARIO Electronic Classical Portable Guitar SILENT GUITAR Classic Nylon String Travel Portable Guitars solid spruce top Okoume body

The TARIO Portable Guitar is designed for musicians seeking convenience without sacrificing sound quality. It features a solid spruce top that enhances tone and resonance, making your playing experience richer. The Okoume body adds durability while keeping the guitar lightweight, perfect for travel. With a 2-band EQ pickup configuration, you can easily adjust your sound to suit various settings, allowing for versatility whether you’re practicing or performing. Plus, the right-hand orientation caters to most players, ensuring comfortable playability. This guitar is an ideal companion for both beginners and experienced musicians alike.

What We Like
Beautiful neck design
High-quality build
Great for silent practice
Comfortable playability
Includes nice gig bag
What We Don't Like
Minor balance issues
Volume knob placement

Vangoa Classical Guitar

Premium VC-2
Red Cedar
Full
Vangoa Classical Guitar Cover
Classical Guitar Full Size 4/4 Spanish Style Classical Guitarra, 39 Inch Nylon Strings Guitar Ideal for Beginner Adults, Solid Cedar Top, by Vangoa

The Vangoa 39" Classical Set is the perfect entry-level guitar for beginner adults. It comes with everything you need to start your music journey right away, including a full-size classical guitar, tuner, strap, capo, cleaning cloth, manual, pick set, spare strings, accessory pouch, and pedal. The premium cedar top and sapele side and back woods produce a bright and clear sound, while the soft nylon strings and smooth fretboard provide a comfortable playing experience. The C-shaped neck and guitar tuner make tuning more accurate and convenient. With its elegant design and vintage engraved headstock, this classical guitar is not only a great instrument but also a beautiful piece of art. Whether you're soloing, teaching, performing, or practicing at home, the Vangoa 39" Classical Set is the ideal choice for you.

What We Like
Beautiful finish
Good sound quality
Includes useful accessories
Lightweight and easy to play
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
High action at 12th fret
Minor blemishes on guitar
#TOP 9

Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural CD Crossover Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar

99-750-0070
Natural Cedar
Full
Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural CD Crossover Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar Cover
Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural CD Crossover Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar, Fusion Series

The Cordoba Fusion 12 Natural CD Crossover Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Nylon String Guitar is an entry-level crossover guitar with a comfortable, slim steel-string style neck and your choice of solid Canadian cedar top or European spruce top paired with mahogany back and sides. With 12 frets to the body, the bridge sits further back on the soundboard, where resonance is optimized for a large sound with long sustains. The guitar also features hand inlaid wooden rosette, 3 ply maple and ebony top purfling, and a high gloss polyurethane finish.

What We Like
Comfortable neck width
Beautiful sound quality
Great fit and finish
Easy to play
Inexpensive for quality
What We Don't Like
Slightly high action setup
Non-protected shipping box
#TOP 10

Yamaha CGS103AII Classical Guitar

CGS103AII
Natural
3/4 Size
Yamaha CGS103AII Classical Guitar Cover
Yamaha Student Series CGS103AII Classical Guitar, Natural

The Yamaha Student Series CGS103AII Classical Guitar is a great choice for those looking for an affordable, quality instrument. It features a spruce top, meranti back and sides, rosewood fingerboard and bridge, and a natural finish. The smaller size makes it easy to play and perfect for those with smaller hands. Customers praise its sound quality, light weight, and overall playability. However, some have experienced shipping issues.

What We Like
Fantastic sound quality
Great playability
Compact size for smaller hands
Affordable pricing
Beautiful design
What We Don't Like
Some minor finish imperfections
Plastic tuning knobs
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Choosing the Right Nylon-String Guitars

Overview

Choosing a nylon-string guitar can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, such as size, shape, price, and sound quality. To help you make the right choice, we’ve compiled this guide to nylon-string guitars. We’ll look at the types of guitars available, the features of each type, and what to look for when buying one. By the end of this guide, you should be armed with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision.

Types of Nylon-String Guitars

Nylon-string guitars come in many different shapes and sizes, from the traditional Spanish classical to a small parlor guitar. Here’s a look at the different types available.

Classical Guitars

The classical guitar is the most popular type of nylon-string guitar. It’s the type most often used in classical music and flamenco. It has a wide neck, a flat back, and usually has six strings. It has a bright, warm tone and is often used for fingerpicking.

Flamenco Guitars

Flamenco guitars are similar to classical guitars, but they’re more heavily braced for a louder sound. They have a more aggressive tone, with a lot of attack and sustain. They’re great for playing fast passages and intricate rhythms.

Acoustic Guitars

Acoustic guitars are similar to classical guitars, but they’re made with a thinner body and a narrower neck. They have a bright, punchy sound that’s well-suited for a variety of genres.

Parlor Guitars

Parlor guitars are small-bodied guitars with a short scale length. They produce a warm, mellow tone and are great for fingerpicking. They’re perfect for guitarists who want a more intimate sound.

Features to Consider

When shopping for a nylon-string guitar, there are several features you should keep in mind. Here are the most important ones.

Scale Length

The scale length of a guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. Longer scale lengths produce more sustain and volume, while shorter scale lengths produce a warmer, mellower tone.

Neck Profile

The neck profile of a guitar is the shape of the neck. A wider neck is easier to play, while a narrower neck is better for faster playing.

Body Size

The size of the guitar’s body affects its sound. Smaller bodies produce a more focused sound, while larger bodies produce a fuller sound.

Materials

Nylon-string guitars are made from a variety of materials, such as solid woods, laminated woods, and composite materials. Solid woods produce a richer, more resonant tone, while laminated woods are more affordable.

What to Look for When Buying a Nylon-String Guitar

When shopping for a nylon-string guitar, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Budget

The most important factor when buying a guitar is your budget. Nylon-string guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Figure out how much you can spend and look for guitars in that price range.

Playability

The playability of a guitar is important. Make sure the guitar feels comfortable in your hands and is easy to play. Try a few different guitars to find the one that feels best.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of a guitar is important. Listen to a few different guitars to get an idea of the tone they produce. Look for a guitar that has a bright, warm tone and good sustain.

Quality

Make sure the guitar is well-made. Look for a guitar with good craftsmanship and good attention to detail.

Conclusion

Choosing a nylon-string guitar can be a daunting task. But with this guide, you should be armed with the knowledge you need to make an informed decision. Consider the types available, the features to look for, and your budget. With a little research, you should be able to find the perfect nylon-string guitar for you.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a nylon string guitar easier to play?

Yes, nylon string guitars are generally easier to play, especially for beginners or those concerned with finger pain. Nylon strings have a softer and gentler feel on the fingers, making them more comfortable to play.

2. Are nylon guitar strings harder to play?

No, nylon guitar strings are actually easier to play compared to steel strings. Nylon strings are softer and more gentle on the fingers, making them a preferred choice for beginners.

3. Why nylon string guitar is better?

Nylon string guitars are often preferred for classical, jazz, and bossa nova styles because of their lighter attack and mellower sound. The nylon strings create a softer and more flexible tone, offering a unique sound for these genres.

4. Is it OK to put nylon strings on an acoustic guitar?

Yes, you can put nylon strings on an acoustic guitar. However, it may cause tuning instability and the strings will be closer together, making it harder to play. Adjustments to the truss rod may be necessary to compensate for the lower tension of nylon strings, and it's important to use ball-end nylon strings for this purpose.

5. What are the disadvantages of nylon-string guitars?

One disadvantage of nylon-string guitars is that they require frequent tuning as the nylon strings are more affected by heat and can come loose easily. Additionally, nylon strings wear more quickly when using a hard pick, so fingerstyle playing or using a soft plastic plectrum is generally preferred.

6. Can you use a pick with nylon strings?

Yes, it is possible to use a pick with nylon strings. However, nylon strings are softer and wear more quickly compared to steel strings, so using a soft plastic plectrum is recommended. Picking nylon strings may reduce their lifespan compared to fingerpicking.

7. What are the least painful guitar strings?

Nylon strings are considered the least painful guitar strings to play. They have a soft feel and produce warm, mellow tones. Nylon strings are often the preferred choice for classical, flamenco, folk, and jazz guitarists.

8. Do nylon string guitars need a truss rod?

In general, acoustic guitars with metal strings have a truss rod to handle the higher tension. Classical guitars, which usually have nylon strings, typically do not require a truss rod since the tension is lower. Therefore, nylon string guitars usually do not need a truss rod.

Editor's Notes

During our nylon-string guitar research, we found 24 nylon-string guitar products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 27,741 customer reviews through our big data system to write the nylon-string guitars list. We found that most customers choose nylon-string guitars with an average price of $252.47.

The nylon-string guitars are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of nylon-string guitars, including Fender, YAMAHA, Cordoba, adm, WINZZ. 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.

Nylon-String Guitars Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Fender YAMAHA Cordoba adm WINZZ Yamaha TARIO Vangoa Cordoba Yamaha
Back Material Sapele Wood Nato Wood Mahogany Basswood Sapele Wood Meranti Okoume Wood sapele Mahogany Meranti
Body Material Sapele Nato Wood Basswood Sapele Meranti Spruce Cedar Mahogany Meranti
String Material Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon plastic Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon
Top Material Agathis Wood Spruce Wood Cedar Basswood Sapele Wood Spruce Spruce Wood Cedar Cedar Wood Spruce
Neck Material Type Nato Wood Spruce Wood Mahogany Nato Wood Nato Wood Nato Okoume Wood Mahogany Mahogany Nato
Number of Strings 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6 6
Guitar Bridge System Fixed Hard Tail Hard Tail Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed Fixed
Top Material Type Agathis Wood Spruce Wood Cedar Basswood Sapele Wood Spruce Spruce Wood Cedar Cedar Wood Spruce
Back Material Type Sapele Wood Nato Wood Mahogany Basswood Sapele Wood Meranti Okoume Wood sapele Mahogany Meranti
String Material Type Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon plastic Nylon Nylon Nylon Nylon
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 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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