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AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 3/4 Size Classical Guitars for Beginner 2026

The top pick is Startone CG 851 3/4 ($55). Yamaha CGS103A 3/4-Size Classical Nylon String Natural leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 44 models across 15 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 17, 2026

44models in this chart
15brands
$208median price
7price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 3/4 Size Classical Guitars Showing: For Beginner · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Startone CG 851 3/4

    Startone

    Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width45 mm (1.77")
    • Scale580 mm (22.83")
    • BodyBasswood body
    • FingerboardJatoba fingerboard

    This Startone CG 851 3/4 is a genuinely useful instrument for beginners or younger players looking for an affordable entry into classical guitar. The smaller size makes it comfortable to handle, and the basswood body provides a surprisingly pleasant, if somewhat muted, tone. It’s a solid choice for lessons or casual practice, offering a good foundation to build upon.

    Pros

    • Basswood body provides a surprisingly warm and even tonal base.
    • Jatoba fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience, avoiding stickiness.
    • Nato neck provides stability and a comfortable profile for smaller hands.

    Cons

    • Basswood, while warm, lacks the projection of higher-grade tonewoods.
    • Jatoba fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, requires more conditioning.
    57AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs80
    • Maker53
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$55 now
    $55€49 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Ortega Student Series RSTC5M 3/4 Size

    RSTC5M-3/4 · Ortega

    10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width45 mm (1.77")
    • Scale590 mm (23.23")
    • Frets19 frets

    This Ortega RSTC5M-3/4 is a solid choice for beginners and younger students exploring classical guitar. The cedar top delivers a pleasingly warm tone, and the smaller size is very comfortable to hold. It's a budget-friendly option that provides a good foundation for learning the fundamentals.

    Pros

    • Cedar top provides a warm, responsive tone ideal for student learning.
    • Catalpa back and sides offer decent projection for the price point.
    • Walnut fretboard feels surprisingly smooth and comfortable under the fingers.

    Cons

    • Catalpa lacks the tonal complexity of more premium tonewoods like mahogany or rosewood.
    • Nickel machine heads may exhibit some slippage over time, requiring occasional tuning.
    66AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand73
    • Lineup50
    • Price57
    • Specs60
    • Maker91
    ↓ 2.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $146 · Aug 14$143 now
    $143€127 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Fender CN-30 3/4 Nylon

    CN-30 3/4 WN Natural · Fender

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
    • Frets18 frets
    • FingerboardWalnut fingerboard

    This little guitar is perfect for kids or adults with smaller hands. The spruce top sounds nice, but the laminated wood limits deep resonance. It comes with a gig bag, making it ready to go.

    Pros

    • Lightweight 3/4 size ideal for small hands
    • Solid spruce top offers bright tone
    • Mahogany neck provides smooth playability

    Cons

    • Laminated back and sides lack resonance
    • No scale length or string gauge data
    67AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand94
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs60
    • Maker26
    Stablesince Aug 17
    $149 · Aug 17$149 now
    $149€132 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4

    Thomann

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width47 mm (1.85")

    This Thomann 3/4 size classical is a solid starter instrument – good for kids or adults needing a smaller frame. The spruce top delivers a decent projection, and the maple back keeps the tone clear. It's a budget-friendly option that'll get you playing without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    • Laminated spruce top offers a surprisingly bright and responsive tone.
    • Maple back and sides provide a clear, focused sound projection.
    • 47mm nut width is comfortable for smaller hands and beginners.

    Cons

    • Laminated construction limits the overall tonal complexity and resonance.
    • Maple neck and fingerboard can feel a bit harder than rosewood alternatives.
    46AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup79
    • Price50
    • Specs20
    • Maker79
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$123 now
    $123€109 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Ibanez GA2-OAM

    Ibanez

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width44.5 mm (1.75")
    • Scale580 mm (22.83")
    • Frets18 frets

    The Ibanez GA2-OAM is a solid starter classical guitar – it’s surprisingly well-built for its price point. The spruce top gives it a decent amount of brightness, and the smaller size is great for younger players or those who want a more manageable instrument. It's a dependable choice for learning the fundamentals of classical technique.

    Pros

    • Spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and responsive tone for the price.
    • Dovetail neck joint adds stability and a slightly warmer resonance.
    • Walnut fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience, comfortable for beginners.

    Cons

    • Meranti back and sides limit the overall tonal complexity and projection.
    • 18 frets restrict upper register access, suitable for simpler pieces.
    45AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price63
    • Specs60
    • Maker42
    ↓ 4.4%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $128 · Aug 14$123 now
    $123€109 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. La Mancha Romero Granito 32-3/4

    La Mancha

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width45 mm (1.77")

    The La Mancha Romero Granito is a surprisingly well-made 3/4 size classical guitar, offering a good starting point for students or players needing a smaller instrument. The spruce top delivers a clear voice, and the overall build feels solid for the price. It's a fantastic option for young beginners or those who prefer a more compact playing experience.

    Pros

    • Spruce top offers a surprisingly bright and responsive tone.
    • Mahogany back/sides provide warmth and a balanced sonic character.
    • Ovangkol fingerboard adds clarity and durability to the fretwork.

    Cons

    • ABS bindings feel a bit plasticky compared to higher-end wood bindings.
    • Savarez strings are decent but a worthwhile upgrade for serious players.
    42AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs20
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$145 now
    $145€129 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. Yamaha CS40 II

    Yamaha

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Scale580 mm (22.83")

    The CS40 II is a solid starter guitar for younger students or beginners. Its smaller 3/4 size makes it manageable, and the spruce top delivers a surprisingly pleasant tone. It’s a well-built instrument offering a lot of value for the budget-conscious learner.

    Pros

    • Spruce top offers a surprisingly bright and responsive tone for the price.
    • Meranti back and sides provide a warm, balanced foundation.
    • Nato neck offers good stability and a comfortable, consistent feel.

    Cons

    • Meranti back/sides lack the tonal complexity of mahogany or rosewood.
    • CS40 II’s finish is basic, lacking the aesthetic appeal of higher-end models.
    42AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup79
    • Price38
    • Specs20
    • Maker53
    ↑ 4.0%since Aug 14
    $140 · Aug 14$145 now
    $145€129 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Yamaha CGS103A 3/4-Size Classical Nylon String Natural

    CGS103A Classical Guitar · Yamaha

    3 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Scale575 mm (22.64")

    The CGS103A is a solid choice for young beginners or smaller-framed players getting into classical guitar. Yamaha's nailed the ergonomics here, making it comfortable to hold and play. It offers a respectable sound that punches above its weight class – a great way to kickstart a musical journey.

    Pros

    • Spruce top delivers a surprisingly balanced and resonant tone for the price.
    • Nato back and sides offer a mahogany-like warmth and projection.
    • Rosewood fretboard and bridge contribute to sustain and tonal complexity.

    Cons

    • Nato isn't as tonally rich as mahogany; a slight compromise for affordability.
    • The finish, while functional, lacks the depth and refinement of higher-end models.
    43AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand42
    • Lineup50
    • Price52
    • Specs20
    • Maker53
    ↓ 0.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $156 · Aug 14$155 now
    $155€138 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4 Bundle

    Thomann

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Nut width47 mm (1.85")

    This Thomann 3/4 bundle is a fantastic starting point for young students or anyone needing a smaller-bodied classical. The included accessories make it exceptionally convenient, and the maple construction delivers a surprisingly articulate voice for a budget-friendly instrument. It's a solid, playable option without unrealistic expectations.

    Pros

    • Laminated spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and clear tone for the price.
    • Maple back and sides offer a balanced resonance, avoiding excessive bass muddiness.
    • Included accessory pack – gig bag, tuner, and capo – adds genuine value.

    Cons

    • Maple construction, while balanced, lacks the warmth of more premium tonewoods.
    • Nickel-plated machine heads are functional but may feel a bit cheap in operation.
    28AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup79
    • Price50
    • Specs20
    • Maker79
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$141 now
    $141€125 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4 Bundle 3

    Thomann

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Nut width47 mm (1.85")
    • Weight0.6 kg

    This Thomann 3/4 bundle is a fantastic entry point for young students or smaller adults just starting out with classical guitar. The included accessories make it a complete package, and the build is surprisingly solid for the price point. It won't replace a master-level instrument, but it's a reliable and affordable way to begin your classical guitar journey.

    Pros

    • Laminated spruce top offers decent projection for the price.
    • Maple back and sides provide a warm, balanced tone.
    • Includes gig bag and footrest – a complete starter package.

    Cons

    • Laminated construction limits the instrument's potential for nuanced tone.
    • Maple neck and fingerboard may feel a bit harder than rosewood.
    26AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs40
    • Maker79
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$141 now
    $141€125 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 44 3/4 size classical guitars

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Ortega Family Series R121 3/4 SizeR121-3/4 NT · Ortega · 2 finishes
    Index 78Stable
    78
    Stable$208€185
    $208€185Check ↗
  2. 12
    Ortega Family Series R122 3/4 SizeR122-3/4 · Ortega
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$213€189
    $213€189Check ↗
  3. 13
    Ortega Family Series R221 3/4 SizeR221-3/4 BK · Ortega
    Index 66Stable
    66
    Stable$287€255
    $287€255Check ↗
  4. 14
    Ortega RST5M-3/4OCOrtega · 2 finishes
    Index 56Stable
    56
    Stable$174€155
    $174€155Check ↗
  5. 15
    La Mancha Rubinito CM59La Mancha · 2 finishes
    Index 51Stable
    51
    Stable$231€205
    $231€205Check ↗
  6. 16
    Cordoba Cadete 3/4-Size Classical NaturalCadete 3/4 Classical Iberia · Cordoba
    Index 51↑ 8.1%
    51
    ↑ 8.1%$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  7. 17
    Ortega R122G-3/4Ortega
    Index 50↑ 2.1%
    50
    ↑ 2.1%$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  8. 18
    Höfner HF-13-3/4Höfner · 2 finishes
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  9. 19
    Ortega RCE125SBK-3/4Ortega
    Index 48↓ 7.5%
    48
    ↓ 7.5%$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  10. 20
    Gewa Pro Arte GC75AGewa · 2 finishes
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$223€198
    $223€198Check ↗
  11. 21
    Ortega RCE125-3/4Ortega
    Index 47↓ 6.4%
    47
    ↓ 6.4%$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  12. 22
    La Mancha Granito 33-N-MB-3/4La Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$168€149
    $168€149Check ↗
  13. 23
    La Mancha Rubinito LSM59La Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$177€157
    $177€157Check ↗
  14. 24
    La Mancha Rubi CM/59-NLa Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  15. 25
    La Mancha Rubi CM/59La Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$272€242
    $272€242Check ↗
  16. 26
    La Mancha Rubi SMX/59La Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$314€279
    $314€279Check ↗
  17. 27
    La Mancha Rubi S / 59La Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$332€295
    $332€295Check ↗
  18. 28
    La Mancha Rubi CM/59 3/4 Armrest EditionLa Mancha
    Index 45Stable
    45
    Stable$336€299
    $336€299Check ↗
  19. 29
    Alhambra 1C HT 3/4 incl. GigbagAlhambra
    Index 44Stable
    44
    Stable$438€389
    $438€389Check ↗
  20. 30
    Cordoba Protege C1M 3/4Cordoba
    Index 43Stable
    43
    Stable$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗
  21. 31
    Gewa Pro Natura Silver 3/4 MapleGewa
    Index 43↓ 5.3%
    43
    ↓ 5.3%$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗
  22. 32
    Manuel Rodriguez E-57Manuel Rodriguez
    Index 43Stable
    43
    Stable$280€249
    $280€249Check ↗
  23. 33
    Ibanez GA5TCE3Q-AMIbanez
    Index 43Stable
    43
    Stable$287€255
    $287€255Check ↗
  24. 34
    Manuel Rodriguez T-57Manuel Rodriguez
    Index 43Stable
    43
    Stable$325€289
    $325€289Check ↗
  25. 35
    Caballero by Manuel Rodriguez Principio CA-PM 3/4Caballero by Manuel Rodriguez
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$204€181
    $204€181Check ↗
  26. 36
    Alhambra 3C 3/4 Cadete NT incl.Gig BagAlhambra
    Index 40↑ 2.5%
    40
    ↑ 2.5%$599€532
    $599€532Check ↗
  27. 37
    Alhambra 1C HT 3/4 incl. Gigbag BundleAlhambra
    Index 28Stable
    28
    Stable$444€395
    $444€395Check ↗
  28. 38
    La Mancha Granito 33-N-MB-3/4 BundleLa Mancha
    Index 27Stable
    27
    Stable$189€168
    $189€168Check ↗
  29. 39
    La Mancha Rubi CM/59 BundleLa Mancha
    Index 27Stable
    27
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  30. 40
    Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4 Blac BundleThomann
    Index 26Stable
    26
    Stable$168€149
    $168€149Check ↗
  31. 41
    Pro Natura Silver 3/4 Maple BundlePro Natura
    Index 26↓ 5.9%
    26
    ↓ 5.9%$235€209
    $235€209Check ↗
  32. 42
    La Mancha Romero Granito 32-3/4 BundleLa Mancha
    Index 25Stable
    25
    Stable$167€148
    $167€148Check ↗
  33. 43
    Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4 BK BundleThomann
    Index 24Stable
    24
    Stable$165€147
    $165€147Check ↗
  34. 44
    Hamaril Acoustic Guitar Set 2Hamaril
    Index 23Stable
    23
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗

3/4 Size Classical Guitars by the numbers

Measured across all 54 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $208 — half of all 3/4 size classical guitars here cost less.

3
9
12
18
8
3
1
<$100$100–150$150–200$200–300$300–400$400–500$500+
Nut width46 mm (1.81")

median of 48 models · 45 mm (1.77")–49 mm (1.93")

Scale590 mm (23.23")

median of 40 models · 570 mm (22.44")–610 mm (24.02")

Frets18

median of 17 models · 18–19

Fingerboardwalnut, rosewood

most common · 9 models

How to choose the best 3/4 size classical guitars

Action

This is HUGE for beginners. High action (the string height above the frets) makes it a wrestling match to play. Look for something manageable - a little higher than a steel-string electric, but definitely not a mile off the fretboard. Too high, and you'll develop bad habits trying to force notes.

Neck Profile

A thinner, more comfortable neck profile is your friend. Wider necks are traditional on classical guitars, but a slightly more modern, comfortable shape will make it easier to build finger strength and dexterity. Think about how it feels in your hand - no point in a 'traditional' neck if it hurts.

Top Wood

Solid cedar tops are common on entry-level guitars, and they offer a warm, relatively forgiving tone - good for practicing scales and working on your vibrato. Spruce tops tend to be a bit brighter and more responsive, but can also highlight sloppy technique, so it's a trade-off. Cedar is generally the safer bet for a beginner.

Bracing Pattern

The bracing (the wooden struts inside the guitar) influences the tone and projection. Simpler bracing patterns are common on budget instruments. While fancy bracing can enhance the sound, it's not a priority for learning - consistent playability is more important.

Overall Build Quality

Look for clean fretwork - no sharp edges or buzzing. Even on a budget guitar, sloppy construction will make learning harder. Check the finish too - a rough finish can snag your hand and make it uncomfortable to play.

Buying guide

So, you're looking at a 3/4 size classical guitar? Smart move. It's the sweet spot for a lot of younger players, or those who just find a full-size a little unwieldy. Getting the right one can make all the difference between a frustrating struggle and actually enjoying the learning process, so let's break down what to look for. This isn't about flashy features; it's about a guitar that'll help you build good habits and actually learn to play.

Don't get lured in by flashy aesthetics or promises of 'professional' tone for a low price. These guitars are built to a budget, and corners will be cut somewhere. Prioritize playability above all else - a comfortable action and a decent neck profile are worth more than a fancy headstock.

Spending a bit more for a guitar that feels good in your hands and stays in tune will pay off big time in the long run.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 54 3/4 size classical guitars from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

  • Demand40%

    How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.

  • Lineup20%

    How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.

  • Price15%

    Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.

  • Specs15%

    How completely the maker documents it.

  • Maker10%

    How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

What's the difference between a 3/4 size and a smaller size guitar?

3/4 size is generally the sweet spot for players roughly 4' to 5' tall. Smaller sizes (1/2, 1/4) are for even younger or smaller players, but can feel cramped and sometimes lack projection. It's worth trying a few different sizes to see what feels best.

Can I use a 3/4 size guitar for gigs?

Probably not. While it's playable, a full-size guitar will generally have more volume and projection needed for performance. It's really for practice and learning, not cutting through a band rehearsal or gig.

What about nylon strings? Do I need special ones?

Standard nylon strings are fine to start with. Some beginner packs include softer strings, which can be gentler on your fingers when you're just starting out. Just don't go for super-cheap, thin strings - they'll sound floppy and won't develop good finger strength.

Is it worth getting a setup?

Absolutely. Even a new guitar often benefits from a professional setup - adjusting the action, intonation, and ensuring the frets are level. It'll make a world of difference in playability.

I'm an adult, is a 3/4 size guitar still right for me?

Definitely! If you find a full-size guitar too large or uncomfortable, a 3/4 size can be a great option. Comfort is key to consistent practice.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 57Startone CG 851 3/4 · $55€49
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗