AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Lefthanded Classical Guitars for Beginner 2026
The top pick is Thomann Classic Guitar 3/4 Lefthand ($122). La Mancha Rubinito LSM/53-L 1/2 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 37 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
This Thomann 3/4 size classical is a surprisingly solid option for beginners or students. The smaller scale makes it comfortable to play, and the maple construction delivers a clean, articulate sound. It's a budget-friendly way to get started with classical guitar, especially for younger or smaller players.
Pros
- Laminated spruce top offers decent projection for the price
- Maple back and sides provide a balanced, clear tone
- 59cm scale ideal for younger learners or smaller hands
Cons
- Laminated construction limits tonal complexity and sustain
- Maple neck and fingerboard can feel a little 'slick' without conditioning
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width45 mm (1.77")
This Thomann 1/2 size left-handed classical is a surprisingly solid starting point. The smaller size makes it really manageable for kids or adults with smaller hands, and the maple back and sides give it a bit more brightness than you might expect. It's a budget-friendly option for beginners wanting to explore classical guitar.
Pros
- 1/2 size ideal for younger or smaller-handed left-handed players.
- Laminated spruce top offers decent projection for an entry-level instrument.
- Maple back and sides provide a relatively bright and clear tone.
Cons
- Laminated construction limits tonal complexity and sustain compared to solid wood.
- Maple fingerboard can feel a bit harder and less comfortable than rosewood.
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$122 now$122€109 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width52 mm (2.05")
- Scale650 mm (25.59")
This Thomann Classic is a fantastic entry point for left-handed classical guitar students. The build is solid for the price, and the Hannabach strings offer a comfortable playing experience. It's a budget-friendly option that delivers a decent tone and will serve beginners well as they develop their skills.
Pros
- Spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and responsive tone.
- Maple back and sides offer a balanced, clear projection.
- Walnut-stained finish adds a touch of visual refinement.
Cons
- Laminated construction limits the tonal complexity compared to solid wood.
- Maple neck might feel a bit stiff for some players' preferences.
40AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$133 now$133€119 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Scale630 mm (24.8")
The La Mancha Rubinito LSM/63-N-L is a fantastic entry-level left-handed classical guitar. It’s a great option for students or anyone looking for a smaller-bodied instrument with decent projection and a pleasant, warm tone – a solid starting point for exploring classical guitar without a huge investment.
Pros
- 7/8 size offers comfortable playability, especially for smaller players or those preferring a more compact instrument.
- Spruce top delivers a surprisingly resonant and clear tone for its price bracket.
- Ovangkol fingerboard provides a smooth playing experience and adds warmth to the overall sound.
Cons
- Mahogany back and sides limit the top-end sparkle, sounding a bit 'woody'.
- Narrow neck (NATO) might feel cramped for players accustomed to wider classical guitar necks.
47AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale470 mm (18.5")
- Frets17 frets
This left-handed guitar uses a spruce top for clarity and mahogany for warmth. The nubone saddle helps smooth out the sound, making it pleasant to play. It is a solid choice for someone who plays classical music but plays with their left hand.
Pros
- Lefthanded design fits players who play with the left hand.
- Spruce top provides a bright and responsive attack.
- Mahogany back and sides add warm, mid-range depth.
Cons
- Natural Matt finish shows wear easily without a glossy coat.
- Weight is not listed, so heaviness is unknown.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$177 now$177€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Scale590 mm (23.23")
- Frets19 frets
This left-handed model suits small players who need a sturdy, affordable option. The spruce top provides a bright voice while the ABS parts add durability. You get a 2-way truss rod for easy setup, making it practical for both beginners and pros.
Pros
- Left-handed design makes playing comfortable for lefties.
- 2-way truss rod allows easy neck adjustments.
- Blackwood Tek fingerboard and bridge offer durable construction.
Cons
- Okoume back and sides may lack resonance of solid wood.
- ABS nut and saddle might feel less smooth than bone.
37AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 22Aug 22$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width47 mm (1.85")
- Weight0.6 kg
This Thomann bundle is a fantastic entry point for left-handed students or beginners exploring classical guitar. The 3/4 size is comfortable, and the included accessories make it a complete and affordable solution. Don't expect a concert-hall sound, but it's a surprisingly capable instrument for the price.
Pros
- 3/4 size makes it ideal for younger or smaller-handed players.
- Laminated spruce top offers decent projection for a budget instrument.
- Includes gig bag and footrest – a complete starter package.
Cons
- Laminated construction limits tonal complexity and sustain compared to solid wood.
- Maple neck and fingerboard may feel a bit harder than rosewood or ebony.
24AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$144 now$144€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width52 mm (2.05")
- Scale650 mm (25.59")
The La Mancha Granito 32-AB-L is a solid, affordable option for left-handed students or players seeking a reliable classical guitar. The spruce top offers a bright and articulate sound, while the mahogany back provides warmth. It’s a great entry point to classical playing, offering a good balance of quality and value.
Pros
- Spruce top delivers a clear, responsive tone with good projection.
- Mahogany back and sides provide a warm, balanced sonic character.
- Nubone nut and saddle improve sustain and tonal clarity compared to standard plastic.
Cons
- Ovangkol fingerboard can be a bit harder than rosewood, potentially less comfortable for some.
- Factory Savarez strings are serviceable but an upgrade would unlock the guitar's full potential.
42AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$177 now$177€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width52 mm (2.05")
- Scale650 mm (25.59")
- Weight0.6 kg
This Thomann Classic bundle is a great starting point for left-handed classical guitar students or anyone on a tight budget. The build quality is reasonable for the price point, and the included accessories make it a complete package. Don't expect professional-grade sound, but it's a solid, playable instrument for learning the basics.
Pros
- Spruce top offers a surprisingly warm and responsive tone for the price.
- Maple back and sides provide a clear, focused projection.
- Hannabach strings are a decent choice for a beginner's instrument.
Cons
- Laminated spruce top will lack the complexity of solid wood instruments.
- Maple neck and fingerboard can feel a bit harder than rosewood.
25AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width48 mm (1.89")
- Scale530 mm (20.87")
- Frets18 frets
The La Mancha Rubinito is a solid starter classical guitar, especially for younger or smaller students. The build quality is surprisingly good for its price point, and it offers a respectable tone – not the most refined, but certainly usable and encouraging for a beginner. It's a great way to get started with classical guitar without a huge investment.
Pros
- Spruce top provides a surprisingly bright and resonant tone for the price.
- Mahogany back and sides offer a warm, balanced foundation.
- NuBone nut and saddle improve sustain and tuning stability.
Cons
- Ovangkol fingerboard can feel a bit dense and less smooth than rosewood.
- Nato neck, while stable, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or Spanish cedar.
44AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$188 now$188€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 37 lefthanded classical guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
La Mancha Rubinito LSM/59-L 3/4La Mancha44Stable$188€169$188€169Check ↗
- 12
Thomann Classic Guitar 1/2 Left BundleThomann24Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
- 13
Ortega R122-1/2-LOrtega42Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 14
Ibanez FRH10NFRH10NL-BSF LH · Ibanez75Stable$535€480$535€480Check ↗
- 15
Ortega Tour Player FMA Blue LHOrtega · 4 finishes61↓ 18.8%$434€389$434€389Check ↗
- 16
Taylor Academy 12e-NAcademy 12e-N LH · Taylor57Stable$924€829$924€829Check ↗
- 17
Ortega Family Series Pro RCE131SN Slim NeckRCE131SN-L · Ortega54Stable$411€369$411€369Check ↗
- 18
Cordoba C10 Cedar Classical GuitarC10 Cedar Lefthand · Cordoba54Stable$1,560€1,399$1,560€1,399Check ↗
- 19
La Mancha Rubi CM/63-LLa Mancha · 4 finishes53Stable$278€249$278€249Check ↗
- 20
Ortega R20GWN-LOrtega · 2 finishes52Stable$746€669$746€669Check ↗
- 21
Ortega Family Series Pro R131SN Slim NeckR131L · Ortega50Stable$311€279$311€279Check ↗
- 22
Takamine GC5CE Acoustic-Electric Classical GuitarGC5CE-N-LH · Takamine49Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 23
Cordoba C5-L Iberia Classical Left Handed NaturalC5 Lefthand Iberia · Cordoba · 2 finishes48↓ 3.4%$408€366$408€366Check ↗
- 24
Höfner HF15-LHöfner48↓ 16.9%$444€398$444€398Check ↗
- 25
Ortega R18S-LOrtega47Stable$619€555$619€555Check ↗
- 26
Ibanez Sign. Tim Henson TOD10NL LHIbanez47↓ 4.1%$679€609$679€609Check ↗
- 27
Höfner HF13-L ClassicalHöfner · 2 finishes46Stable$400€359$400€359Check ↗
- 28
Ortega RCE138SN-LOrtega45Stable$556€499$556€499Check ↗
- 29
Larry Carlton G5N Natural LHLarry Carlton44Stable$701€629$701€629Check ↗
- 30
Ortega R122L-3/4Ortega42Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 31
La Mancha Granito 32-CEN-AB-LLa Mancha42Stable$266€239$266€239Check ↗
- 32
Höfner HF17-LHöfner42↓ 3.5%$590€529$590€529Check ↗
- 33
Taylor 214ce-N LH Spruce/WalnutTaylor41Stable$1,281€1,149$1,281€1,149Check ↗
- 34
Alhambra 1C HT LH incl. GigbagAlhambra40Stable$512€459$512€459Check ↗
- 35
Alhambra 5P LH incl.Gig BagAlhambra40Stable$1,114€999$1,114€999Check ↗
- 36
Cordoba GK Studio Negra LefthandCordoba39Stable$835€749$835€749Check ↗
- 37
Alhambra 4P LH incl.Gig BagAlhambra35↑ 5.9%$1,002€899$1,002€899Check ↗
Lefthanded Classical Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 47 models we track, not a sample.
Median $411 — half of all lefthanded classical guitars here cost less.
median of 46 models · 45 mm (1.77")–52 mm (2.05")
median of 41 models · 560 mm (22.05")–650 mm (25.59")
median of 16 models · 17–22
most common · 13 models
How to choose the best lefthanded classical guitars
Playability (Action & Neck Profile)
This is the biggest deal. High action (string height) will kill your motivation faster than anything. A thinner, more comfortable neck profile is easier on developing finger strength, especially for younger players. Look for something manageable - not too chunky.
Top Wood & Bracing
Solid cedar or spruce tops will give you a warmer, more resonant tone than laminated woods. The bracing pattern affects sustain and projection; a more open bracing pattern generally offers better responsiveness, but can also be less structurally stable on cheaper instruments.
String Spacing & Width
Classical guitars have wider string spacing than steel-string acoustics, which is good for fingerstyle. But a too-wide string spacing can be awkward for smaller hands. This is something you'll feel immediately when you play.
Construction Quality & Finish
We're not expecting perfection at this price point, but consistent fretwork and a decent finish are important. Sharp fret ends or a poorly applied finish will be distracting and uncomfortable. Look for clean lines and consistent glue joints.
Overall Tone (Warmth & Articulation)
A good beginner classical guitar shouldn't sound muddy or overly bright. You want a warm, balanced tone with clear articulation - meaning each note should ring out distinctly, even when playing simple chords. That 'fat midrange honk' is a nice bonus.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're left-handed and want to dive into classical guitar - fantastic choice. Finding a good starter instrument can be tricky, especially when you're not right-handed. We're not talking about just flipping a standard guitar; the bracing patterns, string spacing, and overall feel are built with a certain technique in mind, so getting a properly built lefty classical is essential for a smooth learning curve and avoiding frustration. Let's cut through the noise and find you something that'll actually inspire you to practice.
Don't chase the prettiest headstock. A cheap guitar will cut corners - often in the bracing or the finish - and that'll impact playability and tone. It's better to spend a little more for something with decent action and a comfortable neck.
Buying used can be a good option to stretch your budget, but be prepared to potentially have a setup done - a simple adjustment to the action can make a world of difference.
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 47 lefthanded 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
Are all left-handed classical guitars simply flipped right-handed guitars?
Not entirely. While some are, a properly built left-handed classical will have its bracing pattern and internal construction mirrored to compensate for the different playing direction. A flipped guitar will often sound and feel off.
What's a 'setup' and do I need one?
A setup is adjusting the guitar's action, intonation, and fretwork. Most beginner guitars benefit from a setup; it can dramatically improve playability. It's worth the investment.
What's the difference between cedar and spruce tops?
Cedar generally offers a warmer, more mellow tone, good for softer playing. Spruce is brighter and more responsive, cutting through better in a group setting. Both are excellent choices for beginners.
Can I use steel strings on a classical guitar?
Absolutely not. Classical guitars are built for nylon strings. Steel strings will likely damage the neck and bridge. Don't even think about it.
How important is the brand?
Brand isn't everything. While some brands consistently produce good instruments, a lesser-known brand can still offer a great playing experience. Focus on the feel and sound of the guitar itself, not the logo.





