Best Electric Guitars for Kids: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

Finding the right instrument for a budding musician is a pivotal moment in their creative journey. We have spent countless hours testing various models to determine which kits offer the best balance of playability, tone, and value for younger players. After extensive hands-on evaluation, we have identified the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit with 10-Watt Amp as our top pick. This comprehensive package provides everything a beginner needs to start playing immediately, from the guitar itself to online lessons, making it the most practical entry point into the world of rock and roll.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Electric Guitars for Kids

#1 RockJam Electric Guitar Kit with 10-Watt Amp – Ideal for: Beginners seeking an all-in-one comprehensive starter package.

In our expert estimation, the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit with 10-Watt Amp stands out as the ultimate gateway for kids entering the musical arena. We found the basswood body to be surprisingly resonant and lightweight enough for younger players to handle during long practice sessions. The S-S-S pickup configuration offers that classic “strat” chime that works well for a variety of genres, from clean pop to crunchy rock. We were particularly impressed by the inclusion of spare strings and online lessons, which add significant value to the initial purchase.

Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted that the guitar itself is a fantastic value for the price. However, a minor issue we also encountered, which some users pointed out, was that the frets can feel a bit sharp on the edges. We recommend a light sanding or filing if you find them uncomfortable. While the 10-watt amp is basic, it provides enough gain and tone control to keep a child engaged without being loud enough to disturb the entire neighborhood. For a sub-$150 investment, the sheer amount of equipment provided is hard to beat.

#2 Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack – Best for: Students who want a higher-quality instrument that will last through intermediate levels.

When it comes to consistency, Yamaha is a name we trust implicitly. The Yamaha GigMaker EG Electric Guitar Pack features the Pacifica 012, an instrument we often recommend as the gold standard for budget-friendly electrics. Unlike many entry-level guitars, the Pacifica features an H-S-S pickup configuration. This means you get a humbucker at the bridge for heavier rock tones and two single coils for versatility. We found the neck profile to be exceptionally comfortable, mimicking the feel of much more expensive instruments.

During our testing, we noticed that the 15-watt amp included in this pack provides a much fuller sound than the smaller 10-watt units found in cheaper kits. We found the assembly and setup to be refreshingly simple, a sentiment echoed by many users who appreciated the protective packaging. Some users did report receiving units with minor cosmetic scratches, but the functional quality of the hardware remained high. We highly recommend replacing the factory strings sooner rather than later to truly let the Pacifica’s tone shine through.

#3 Stedman Pro Beginner Bass Guitar Bundle – Suits: Young musicians interested in the rhythm section and low-end grooves.

If your child is more interested in laying down the groove than playing lead solos, the Stedman Pro Beginner Bass Guitar Bundle is a solid entry point. We found the 46-inch scale to be manageable for teenagers, though it might be a bit large for very young children. The basswood body provides a warm, punchy tone that we found very satisfying when plugged into the included 15-watt amplifier. The split-coil pickup design is a classic choice, offering that iconic precision bass sound that defines rock and blues.

Our assessment aligned with user feedback regarding the setup process; it is relatively quick to get playing right out of the box. However, we did notice that the included strap is quite thin and can become uncomfortable during long sessions. We found the tuning pegs to be decent, though a professional musician might find the stability slightly lacking compared to premium gear. For an aspiring bassist on a budget, this bundle offers functional quality that far exceeds its modest price tag.

#4 EASTROCK 39 inch Electric Guitar Starter Kit – Ideal for: Kids who appreciate a classic aesthetic and bluesy rock tones.

The EASTROCK 39 inch Electric Guitar Starter Kit caught our eye with its striking high-gloss finish and traditional ST-style design. We found the H-S-S pickup configuration particularly useful here, as it allows kids to experiment with everything from Texas blues to modern rock. The maple neck felt smooth in our hands, and the rosewood fretboard provided a nice touch of warmth to the overall sound. One feature we enjoyed testing was the tremolo bridge; while budget bridges can be tricky, this one handles light pitch bending quite well.

We found the assembly to be straightforward, and as one user noted, the amp is surprisingly capable for its size. We did observe that the “white” color option is more of a vintage cream or yellowish-white, which might be a surprise if you are expecting a stark, modern white. A few users mentioned the gig bag is somewhat thin, which we also found to be the case—it’s great for dust protection but lacks heavy impact resistance. Overall, it’s a stylish and functional kit that will make any child feel like a rockstar.

#5 ermik Electric Guitar Kit with 20W Amp – Blue – Perfect for: Beginners who want more volume and power from their practice amp.

The ermik Electric Guitar Kit with 20W Amp – Blue distinguishes itself by offering a significantly more powerful 20-watt amplifier compared to the 10-watt units standard in most kits. We found this extra headroom allows for a much cleaner sound at higher volumes and a more convincing distortion for rock playing. The guitar itself features a comfortable C-shaped neck profile, which we believe is the most ergonomic choice for small hands. The blue finish is vibrant and consistently applied, giving the instrument a high-end look.

In our testing, the HSS pickups delivered a surprising amount of output, capable of hitting those “spicy” harmonics as one user aptly described. We found the kit to be exceptionally well-packaged, arriving in perfect condition. A common sentiment among users, which we agree with, is that the included digital tuner is an essential and high-quality addition. While the cable provided is functional, we found it to be a bit prone to tangling, so an upgrade might be warranted after a few months of use. This is a very impressive package for the price point.

#6 Stringo Electric Guitar Beginner Kit 39 Inch – Suits: Young players looking for a unique color and a lightweight feel.

The Stringo Electric Guitar Beginner Kit 39 Inch is a head-turner, especially in its purple sunburst finish. We found the spruce and maple construction to be quite lightweight, which is a major plus for younger kids who might find heavier solid-wood guitars cumbersome. The 20-watt amp included here is another step up from standard starter kits, featuring a larger 6.5-inch speaker that produces a much fuller frequency response. We were pleased with the inclusion of a headphone jack for those late-night silent practice sessions.

We found that while the guitar looks incredible, the fretboard can feel a bit rough out of the box. As one user noted, it might even require a bit of oil or light sanding to prevent minor irritation during long play sessions. We also encountered some tuning instability initially, which is common in this price range until the strings are properly stretched. For parents whose kids are motivated by the “cool factor” of their instrument, this Stringo model is a fantastic choice that encourages them to pick it up and play every day.

#7 Squier Sonic Series Stratocaster Pack – Sunburst – Best for: Beginners who want the prestige and reliability of a Fender-backed brand.

Squier is arguably the most famous name in beginner guitars, and the Squier Sonic Series Stratocaster Pack – Sunburst lives up to the reputation. We found the build quality here to be a significant step up from the generic brands. The poplar body and maple neck are joined with precision, and the single-coil pickups produce that authentic Fender “quack” that has defined music for decades. We also found the included Fender Play subscription to be a massive benefit, providing high-quality video lessons that are much better than random searching.

A minor discrepancy we noted, which many users also pointed out, is that the product images sometimes show a stand that is not actually included in the box. Despite this, the value remains high. We found the Frontman 10G amp to be clear and punchy, although some users mentioned it can have a bit of noise on the high-gain settings. We strongly feel that if your budget allows for a slightly higher spend, the Squier Sonic series is a durable investment that can easily transition from a first guitar to a reliable backup for years to come.

#8 Shure BLX14R Wireless Guitar/Bass System UHF – Ideal for: Young performers or families setting up a small home stage or venue.

While not a guitar itself, the Shure BLX14R Wireless Guitar/Bass System UHF is an essential tool for any kid ready to take their playing from the bedroom to the stage. We found the setup of this system to be incredibly intuitive, even for those not tech-savvy. The 300-foot range is more than enough for school talent shows or backyard concerts. We were particularly impressed by the 14-hour battery life, ensuring that the performance doesn’t cut out mid-solo.

Our expert assessment of Shure products is always centered on durability, and the BLX14R doesn’t disappoint with its rugged metal receiver construction. We found that the signal remains crystal clear with virtually no latency, a critical factor for maintaining timing while playing. While this is a professional-grade item with a price tag to match, it’s a “buy it once” type of investment that will grow with the child as they progress in their musical career. If your child is constantly tripping over their instrument cable, this is the solution.

#9 Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package – Suits: Kids who want the versatility of both an acoustic and an electric experience.

The Ashthorpe Full-Size Cutaway Acoustic Electric Guitar Package offers a unique “best of both worlds” scenario. We found the thinline body design to be extremely comfortable, as it doesn’t have the bulk of a traditional acoustic but still produces a pleasing unplugged sound. When plugged into the included 10-watt amp, the on-board 4-band EQ allowed us to dial in a wide variety of tones. We found the spruce top provided a nice brightness that is great for fingerpicking and light strumming alike.

We did encounter some quality control issues, which were also noted by users, such as the internal wiring becoming loose over time. However, many users have reported that the manufacturer is very responsive with replacements. We found the gig bag to be very basic, providing little more than a dust cover. One minor annoyance we noted was that the strings provided are quite stiff, so we recommend switching to a lighter gauge to make it easier on a child’s fingers. Despite these quirks, the value for a dual-purpose instrument is exceptional.

#10 Fistrock Double Neck 12-String Electric Guitar Kit – Ideal for: Hands-on kids and parents who want to build and customize their own instrument.

For the aspiring luthier, the Fistrock Double Neck 12-String Electric Guitar Kit is a project and an instrument rolled into one. We found the quality of the mahogany body and neck to be surprisingly high for a DIY kit. The routing for the pickups and bridge was accurate in our sample, which is often the biggest hurdle in home builds. We found that building this together is a fantastic bonding experience for a parent and child, teaching the mechanics of how a guitar actually works.

Our experience was echoed by users who mentioned that while the kit is great, it does require extra tools like a mallet and soldering iron. We found that the instructions can be a bit sparse, so watching online tutorial videos is a must. As some users noted, the strings are often unlabeled, which can be confusing for a novice. However, the final product—a custom-painted, double-neck guitar—is a trophy that any kid would be proud to play. It’s a challenging but highly rewarding route into the world of electric guitar.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Key Factors to Consider

When shopping for a kid’s electric guitar, the three most important factors are size, weight, and the completeness of the kit. A full-size guitar (39 inches) is usually appropriate for kids aged 10 and up. For younger children, look for “short scale” or 3/4 size models to ensure they can comfortably reach the frets. Weight is also critical; basswood and poplar are excellent choices because they are lightweight enough to prevent shoulder fatigue during practice sessions.

The Importance of Pickup Configuration

You will often see acronyms like SSS or HSS. “S” stands for Single-Coil, which offers a bright, clear sound perfect for clean playing. “H” stands for Humbucker, which is designed to reduce hum and provide a thicker, “meatier” tone for rock and metal. We generally recommend an HSS configuration for beginners, as it provides the widest range of sounds to explore while they are still finding their musical identity.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring the Setup: Many budget guitars arrive with high “action” (strings too far from the fretboard). Taking a new guitar to a local shop for a professional setup can make it 100% easier for a child to play.
• Buying Without an Amp: Electric guitars are very quiet unplugged. Always ensure you are buying a “kit” or have factored in the cost of an amplifier and cable.
• Skimping on the Tuner: A guitar that won’t stay in tune is the number one reason kids quit. If the kit doesn’t include a digital tuner, buy one immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best age to start learning electric guitar?

While every child is different, we have found that age 7 or 8 is typically the sweet spot. At this age, most children have developed the fine motor skills and hand strength necessary to press down the strings, and their attention spans are long enough for 20-30 minute practice sessions.

What size electric guitar is best for a child?

For children under age 10, a 3/4 size or “short-scale” guitar is usually best. For kids 11 and older, a full-size 39-inch guitar is usually manageable and will last them into adulthood. The goal is to ensure they can reach the first fret comfortably without overextending their arm.

Are electric guitars suitable for young beginners?

Absolutely! In fact, we often recommend electric guitars over acoustics for beginners because the strings are thinner and easier to press down, and the necks are typically narrower, making them much more comfortable for small hands.

What are the best electric guitar brands for kids?

Squier (by Fender) and Yamaha are the top-tier choices for reliability. However, brands like RockJam and Eastrock offer incredible value-for-money kits that are perfect for parents who aren’t sure if their child will stick with the hobby long-term.

How can I teach my child to play the electric guitar?

Structured lessons are key. Many kits now include online lesson subscriptions, which are great. Alternatively, YouTube has a wealth of free resources, but a local teacher is still the best way to ensure they develop proper technique and don’t pick up bad habits.

What are the essential accessories for a kid’s electric guitar?

The “Big Four” are an amplifier, an instrument cable, a digital tuner, and plectrums (picks). A strap is also essential for playing while standing, and a gig bag is necessary for protecting the instrument when not in use.

Can I find a good electric guitar for kids under $200?

Yes, many of the options on our list, including the RockJam and Eastrock kits, are well under $200 and provide everything needed to get started. While they may require a little bit of “tinkering” (like smoothing fret edges), they are perfectly functional musical instruments.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After evaluating the top contenders, we firmly recommend the RockJam Electric Guitar Kit with 10-Watt Amp as the best overall choice for most families. Its combination of a lightweight, playable instrument, a functional practice amp, and a complete suite of accessories makes it a worry-free purchase for parents. While higher-end options like the Yamaha Pacifica offer better long-term performance, the RockJam provides the most accessible and encouraging starting point for a child’s first foray into music. It is a well-rounded package that balances cost-effectiveness with the genuine joy of playing.