Best 4/4 Size Classical Guitars for Beginner 2026
So, you're diving into the world of classical guitar - awesome! It's a beautiful instrument, but getting started on a 4/4 size can be intimidating. You need a guitar that won't fight you, one that lets you focus on learning technique instead of wrestling with high action and a muddy low-end. Let's break down what to look for in your first classical, because a bad experience early on can be a real turnoff.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 4/4 size classical guitars in 2026 are Startone CG851 4/4 Classical Guitar Set (top pick), Startone Concert Guitar Set 1 English for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton CG200-BK Bundle for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $54–$141, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
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7/10
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10/10
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9/10
Startone CG851 4/4 Classical Guitar Set
by
Startone
Spanish Guitar
Bossa Nova
Academic Study
Key Feature:
This Startone CG851 is a remarkably affordable entry point into classical guitar playing. The basswood body provides a mellow tone, making it forgiving for beginners, while the included accessories get you playing right out of the box. It’s a solid choice for students or anyone wanting to explore classical guitar without a significant investment.
PROS
- • Basswood body offers a surprisingly warm and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Jatoba fingerboard provides a smooth, consistent playing surface.
- • Complete set includes gig bag and stand, excellent value for beginners.
- • Nato neck offers decent stability and a playable profile for the price.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, lacks the projection of more premium tonewoods.
- • Jatoba fingerboard might feel slightly harder than rosewood to some.
- • Millenium stand is basic and not suitable for long-term nitro finishes.
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
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7/10
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10/10
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9/10
Art. 291860
$88
#2
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Startone Concert Guitar Set 1 English
by
Startone
Bossa Nova
Classical
Flamenco
Key Feature:
This Startone set is a surprisingly solid entry point for absolute beginners wanting to learn classical guitar. The included course and tuner make it a complete package, and the basswood construction delivers a gentle, student-friendly tone. It's a budget-friendly option that provides a decent foundation for exploring the world of classical music.
PROS
- • Includes a tuner and beginner's course, great value for the price.
- • Basswood body offers a warmer, more mellow tone than spruce.
- • Jatoba fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and good durability.
- • Nato neck is typically stable and provides a comfortable feel.
CONS
- • Basswood is a softer tonewood; won’t offer the projection of higher-grade woods.
- • Jatoba can be a bit harder than rosewood, potentially less forgiving for beginners.
- • Gig bag not included, a more robust case would be preferable.
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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10/10
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9/10
Art. 245029
$88
#3
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3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG200-BK Bundle
Fingerstyle
Flamenco
Bossa Nova
Key Feature:
The CG200-BK is a remarkable value for absolute beginners or those wanting a spare classical. The basswood body provides a surprisingly pleasant tone, and the included accessories make it instantly playable. Don't expect heirloom quality, but it's a solid starting point for exploring classical guitar at an incredibly affordable price.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a surprisingly warm and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Nato neck offers decent stability and a playable, if basic, feel.
- • Complete accessory pack adds immediate value for beginners or casual players.
- • High-gloss black finish looks surprisingly sharp for a budget-friendly instrument.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit 'slick' and lack the warmth of rosewood.
- • Gig bag is very basic, offering minimal protection from bumps and scrapes.
- • Overall build quality reflects the price point – expect some minor cosmetic imperfections.
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3.1/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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10/10
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9/10
Art. 544080
$94
#4
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2.8/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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5/10
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10/10
Startone CG 851 4/4 Set 1 NT
by
Startone
Flamenco
Spanish Guitar
Classical
Key Feature:
The Startone CG 851 is a fantastic entry point into classical guitar playing. It’s surprisingly well-made for its budget-friendly price, offering a comfortable neck and decent tone – perfect for students or anyone wanting to explore classical music without a huge investment.
PROS
- • Basswood body offers a surprisingly warm, balanced tone for the price.
- • Maple fretboard provides a smooth, fast playing experience, easy for beginners.
- • Included accessories like tuner and picks are a nice bonus for new players.
- • Solid black binding adds a touch of visual refinement, elevates the aesthetic.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, lacks the projection of more premium tonewoods.
- • Maple fretboard can be prone to drying and cracking if not properly humidified.
- • Limited tonal versatility; best suited for traditional classical styles.
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2.8/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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5/10
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10/10
Art. 407484
$72
#5
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3.1/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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9/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG200-BK Set 1
Bossa Nova
Fingerstyle
Flamenco
Key Feature:
The CG200-BK is a surprisingly solid entry point into classical guitar playing. The build quality is acceptable for the price, and it delivers a warm, pleasant tone that’s perfect for students or anyone wanting a budget-friendly classical instrument. It's a fantastic value proposition for absolute beginners or casual players.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a warm, mellow tone suitable for classical and fingerstyle.
- • Nato neck offers decent stability and a playable, comfortable feel for beginners.
- • Maple fretboard provides a smooth surface for accurate intonation and easy string bending.
- • Included gig bag and tuner offer excellent value, a complete starter package.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, lacks the projection and complexity of higher-grade tonewoods.
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit 'slick' compared to rosewood or ebony for some players.
- • Hardware and tuners are basic, may need upgrading for serious or advanced playing.
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3.1/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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9/10
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9/10
Art. 461635
$94
#6
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3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
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10/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG200CE-BK Bundle
Bossa Nova
Classical
Academic Study
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton CG200CE-BK is a surprisingly capable starter classical guitar bundle. It’s a fantastic option for absolute beginners or students on a tight budget who want amplified functionality. The EQ is a nice touch for basic performance needs, and the included accessories make it ready to play straight out of the box.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a surprisingly warm and resonant tone for the price.
- • Integrated 4-band EQ allows for basic output shaping and gig-friendly adjustments.
- • Nato neck offers decent stability and a playable feel, typical for this price range.
- • The bundled gig bag and stand offer immediate playability and protection – a real value.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit 'slick' compared to rosewood, impacting grip for some players.
- • Basswood, while warm, lacks the complexity and projection of higher-grade tonewoods.
- • Gig bag is economy-grade; durability is limited, especially with frequent travel.
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3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
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10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538181
$109
#7
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
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8/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG-400CE Thinline BK w/Bag
Spanish Guitar
Academic Study
Flamenco
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton CG-400CE is a fantastic entry point for aspiring classical guitarists or anyone needing a budget-friendly amplified option. The thin body makes it comfortable to play, and the built-in preamp opens up possibilities for live performance or recording. It’s a solid instrument for students and hobbyists who want a decent sound without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Spruce top delivers a surprisingly bright and responsive tone
- • Okume body provides a lightweight feel and decent resonance
- • Carbon-reinforced neck adds stability and reduces unwanted flex
- • Integrated chromatic tuner is a genuinely useful and convenient feature
CONS
- • Okume body, while lightweight, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany
- • Blackwood Tec fretboard might feel slightly less refined than rosewood
- • HB-3T preamp, while functional, won’t rival higher-end acoustic pickups
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3.5/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538187
$131
#8
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3.6/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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9/10
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9/10
Thomann Classic 4/4 Guitar Blac Bundle
by
Thomann
Spanish Guitar
Flamenco
Bossa Nova
Key Feature:
This Thomann Classic bundle is a fantastic option for absolute beginners or students looking for an affordable introduction to classical guitar. The construction is straightforward, resulting in a clear, bright tone that’s easy to learn on, and the included accessories make it a complete, ready-to-play package. Don't expect heirloom quality, but it's a solid starting point.
PROS
- • Laminated spruce top provides a surprisingly bright, responsive initial sound.
- • Maple back and sides offer a clear, focused tone with good projection.
- • Included Hannabach strings are a decent quality, playable right out of the box.
- • Gig bag and clip tuner add real value, making it a complete starter package.
CONS
- • Maple construction limits the warmth and complexity found in solid wood instruments.
- • Cream-colored bindings feel like an afterthought, potentially impacting longevity.
- • Factory setup will almost certainly require adjustment for optimal playability.
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3.6/5
AudioFu Score
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8/10
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9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 344170
$142
#9
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3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG200CE-BK w/Bag
Bossa Nova
Spanish Guitar
Classical
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton CG200CE-BK is a fantastic entry point for aspiring classical guitarists or anyone needing a budget-friendly amplified option. The cutaway provides easy access to higher frets, and while the tone isn't groundbreaking, the EQ allows for some basic tweaking – perfect for students or casual players wanting to experiment with amplification.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a surprisingly warm and balanced tone.
- • Nato neck provides decent stability and a playable feel.
- • Integrated 4-band EQ offers basic output shaping for amplified use.
- • Gig bag provides adequate protection and portability for beginners.
CONS
- • Basswood construction lacks the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit slick for some players’ preferences.
- • Pickup system is basic and won't rival higher-end acoustic-electric systems.
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3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
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7/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538177
$109
#10
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3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Thomann C-404 NT Set
by
Thomann
Flamenco
Academic Study
Fingerstyle
Key Feature:
The Thomann C-404 NT Set is a surprisingly solid entry-level classical guitar. The spruce top gives it a bright voice, while the okoume provides a touch of warmth. This is an excellent choice for absolute beginners or students looking for an affordable and complete package to start their classical guitar journey.
PROS
- • European spruce top offers a bright, clear fundamental tone.
- • Okoume back and sides provide warmth and balanced projection.
- • Hannabach 815 HT strings deliver a pleasant, responsive feel.
- • Includes gig bag, tuner, and footrest – a great starter package.
CONS
- • Okoume is a softer wood, potentially susceptible to dings and scratches.
- • Blackwood fingerboard might feel slightly less refined than rosewood.
- • The 'C' neck profile isn't universally preferred; may feel thick to some.
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 413396
$109
#11
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2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
10/10
Startone CG 851 4/4
by
Startone
Fingerstyle
Academic Study
Flamenco
Key Feature:
This Startone CG 851 is a solid, budget-friendly option for absolute beginners or students just starting out with classical guitar. It’s surprisingly playable, offering a decent tone without breaking the bank. It's a great way to get acquainted with the instrument without a significant investment.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a warm, mellow tone suitable for classical pieces.
- • Jatoba fingerboard offers a surprisingly smooth playing experience for the price.
- • Nato neck is stable and comfortable, facilitating easier chord transitions.
- • 650mm scale length feels familiar to many classical guitar players.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while warm, lacks the projection of higher-grade woods.
- • Jatoba fingerboard can feel slightly dry and may benefit from occasional oiling.
- • Basic nylon strings will likely be the first upgrade for serious students.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 187423
$55
#12
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Thomann C-404 BLK Set
by
Thomann
Classical
Fingerstyle
Flamenco
Key Feature:
The C-404 BLK is a surprisingly capable student-level classical guitar. The spruce top gives it a decent brightness, and the overall build is solid for the budget. It's a fantastic option for absolute beginners or students who need a reliable and affordable instrument to learn on.
PROS
- • European spruce top provides a bright, clear fundamental tone
- • Okoume back and sides offer warmth and good projection for the price
- • Blackwood fingerboard and bridge contribute to a respectable sustain
- • Includes gig bag, tuner, and footrest – excellent starter package
CONS
- • Okoume can be a bit 'woody' sounding compared to mahogany or rosewood
- • Factory Hannabach strings are decent, but an upgrade is recommended
- • Black finish might show fingerprints and scuffs easily
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
5/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 480477
$97
#13
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3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG300CE NT Bundle
Bossa Nova
Academic Study
Classical
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton CG300CE NT bundle is a fantastic entry point for absolute beginners or students on a tight budget. The spruce top offers a surprisingly good sound, and the included gig bag and stand make it a complete package. It’s a solid, playable instrument that punches well above its weight class.
PROS
- • Spruce top provides a surprisingly resonant and clear tone for the price.
- • Agathis back and sides offer decent projection and warmth, a budget-friendly alternative.
- • Built-in pickup system enables basic amplification, useful for practice or small gigs.
- • Gig bag and stand included add significant value to the overall package.
CONS
- • Agathis back and sides lack the tonal complexity of mahogany or rosewood.
- • Roseacer fretboard, while playable, might feel slightly less refined than ebony.
- • Cutaway design compromises some upper bout resonance and structural integrity.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538195
$122
#14
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Thomann Classic 4/4 Guitar Bundle
by
Thomann
Classical
Bossa Nova
Fingerstyle
Key Feature:
This Thomann Classic bundle is a fantastic starting point for absolute beginners wanting to explore classical guitar. The build quality is respectable for the price, and the included accessories make it a truly complete package. Don't expect a concert-hall tone, but it's a solid, playable instrument for learning the basics.
PROS
- • Laminated spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and clear initial tone.
- • Maple back and sides offer a balanced warmth and sustain, avoiding muddiness.
- • Hannabich 815HT strings are a decent quality nylon string set for a beginner.
- • The included accessory pack (gig bag, tuner, capo) adds significant value for the price.
CONS
- • Maple fretboard can feel a bit harder and less smooth than rosewood for some players.
- • Lamination limits the resonance and complexity of the overall tone compared to solid wood.
- • Nickel-plated machine heads may exhibit some slop and require occasional tuning.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 558180
$142
#15
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Harley Benton CG300CE NT w/Bag
Fingerstyle
Academic Study
Bossa Nova
Key Feature:
This CG300CE NT is a surprisingly capable classical guitar for the budget-conscious student or casual player. The spruce top gives it a decent amount of sparkle, and the cutaway makes playing higher notes easier. It's a great entry point into classical, or a decent practice guitar for someone who wants basic amplification.
PROS
- • Spruce top provides surprisingly bright, clear projection for the price.
- • Agathis back and sides offer a warm, full tone – decent for its class.
- • Cutaway allows comfortable access to higher frets – a nice bonus.
- • Built-in pickup system enables basic amplification for performance or recording.
CONS
- • Agathis, while warm, lacks the tonal complexity of mahogany or rosewood.
- • Roseacer fretboard may feel slightly less polished than ebony or richer hardwoods.
- • High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and may feel a bit plasticky.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
7/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 538194
$122
How to Choose the Best 4/4 Size Classical Guitars
1
Action
This is critical. High action (string height) makes it brutally difficult to fret notes cleanly, especially for smaller hands. Look for something manageable - around 2.5mm to 3mm at the 12th fret is a good starting point. A slightly higher action can be adjusted, a ridiculously high one is a dealbreaker.
2
Neck Profile
A thinner, more comfortable neck profile will be easier to navigate, especially as you're developing finger strength and dexterity. Chunky necks can feel like you're wrestling a tree trunk - not ideal when you're trying to nail a simple scale.
3
Sound Projection & Articulation
You want a guitar that responds well to a light touch. A muddy, boomy tone will mask your mistakes and make it hard to hear individual notes. A cleaner, more articulate sound will make learning easier and more rewarding. It doesn't need to be concert-hall quality, just clear.
4
Construction Quality
Check for consistent fretwork - no sharp edges or buzzing. Look at the finish - it should be smooth and even, with no obvious imperfections. These are signs of a well-built instrument that will last. Sloppy construction means frustration down the line.
5
Tonewoods (to a degree)
While exotic woods sound great, for a beginner, the combination of woods is more important than the species itself. Spruce tops generally offer good projection, while mahogany or cedar backs and sides tend to be warmer. Don't get hung up on "expensive" woods - focus on a balanced sound.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'best sounding' guitar - chase the most playable one. Cheap guitars often compensate for poor construction with thicker strings, which exacerbates the high action problem. A slightly more expensive guitar with a comfortable neck and lower action will be a better investment. Seriously, a setup from a good luthier can transform a decent guitar into a joy to play, but that's an extra cost to factor in.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 4/4 size classical guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Spruce tends to be brighter and more responsive, good for projection. Cedar is warmer and more mellow, often preferred for its immediate feel. Neither is inherently 'better,' it's a matter of preference.
Ideally, play before you buy. A local shop allows you to try different models and get a setup. Online is fine if you're on a tight budget, but be prepared to potentially need a setup after it arrives.
Lighter gauge strings are easier on the fingers, a huge plus for beginners. Heavier strings offer more volume and projection, but require more finger strength. Start light, you can always move up later.
A tiny bit of buzz is normal, especially on the lower frets. Excessive buzzing indicates fretwork issues that need addressing. Don't buy a guitar that buzzes excessively.
A full 4/4 size is standard and generally best for developing proper technique. However, if you're struggling significantly, a slightly shorter scale length (still a 4/4 size, just with a different neck construction) might be worth exploring.
