Best Other Classical Guitars Under $200 2026

Affordable other classical guitars under $200 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: January 14, 2026 • Next update: January 21, 2026

Harley Benton CG-400CE Thinline BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#1

Harley Benton CG-400CE Thinline BK

Custom Features Experimental Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
• Unique construction and design features
✓ PROS
  • • Distinctive tonal characteristics
  • • Alternative approaches to classical guitar
✗ CONS
  • • May deviate from traditional standards
  • • Uncertain resale value

Harley Benton CG-400CE Thinline BKClassical Guitar with PickupType: Thinline with CutawayTop: SpruceBody: OkumeNeck:...

5.0/5 (21 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Ortega RGL5CE Guitarlele - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#2

Ortega RGL5CE Guitarlele

Experimental Modern Classical Specialty Applications
Key Feature:
• Modern innovations in classical tradition
✓ PROS
  • • Alternative approaches to classical guitar
  • • Unique construction and design features
✗ CONS
  • • Not suitable for all classical styles
  • • May deviate from traditional standards

Ortega RGL5CE GuitaleleGuitaleleCutawayTop: SpruceBack and sides: MahoganyNeck: MahoganyFretboard and bridge: WalnutNut...

5.0/5 (26 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Ortega RQ25 Requinto - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#3

Ortega RQ25 Requinto

Alternative Classical Unique Styles Experimental
Key Feature:
• Modern innovations in classical tradition
✓ PROS
  • • Modern innovations in classical tradition
  • • Unique construction and design features
✗ CONS
  • • Limited availability and selection
  • • Specialized maintenance requirements

Ortega RQ25 RequintoRequino Classical GuitarTop: SpruceBack and sides: SapeleNeck: OkoumeFretboard: WalnutScale: 535...

5.0/5 (48 reviews)
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Ortega RQC25 Requinto - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#4

Ortega RQC25 Requinto

Custom Features Specialty Applications Experimental
Key Feature:
• Distinctive tonal characteristics
✓ PROS
  • • Creative expression possibilities
  • • Unique construction and design features
✗ CONS
  • • Uncertain resale value
  • • Not suitable for all classical styles

Ortega RQC25 RequintoRequino Classical GuitarTop: CedarBack and Sides: SapeleNeck: OkoumFretboard: WalnutScale: 535...

4.9/5 (45 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Cordoba Mini II MH - Professional Music Instrument Photo
#5

Cordoba Mini II MH

Experimental Specialty Applications Unique Styles
Key Feature:
• Creative expression possibilities
✓ PROS
  • • Alternative approaches to classical guitar
  • • Unique construction and design features
✗ CONS
  • • Specialized maintenance requirements
  • • Not suitable for all classical styles

Cordoba Mini II MHMini Classical GuitarTop: MahoganyBack: MahoganySides: MahoganyFretboard: Pau FerroScale: 580 mmNut...

4.8/5 (16 reviews)
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10

How to Choose the Best Other Classical Guitars

Budget Planning

  • • Under $200: Entry-level
  • • $200-$500: Intermediate
  • • $500-$1000: Advanced
  • • $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

  • • Sound clarity & tone
  • • Build materials & finish
  • • Hardware durability
  • • Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

  • • Your musical style
  • • Skill level match
  • • Intended use case
  • • Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.
Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.
Higher-priced other classical guitars typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.
Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.
Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

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