Half Size Guitar

Best Half Size Guitar

Kids love music and they want to play an instrument just like their parents, friends, and favorite artists. But what if the guitar is too big? 1/2 size guitars are made with that in mind. 1/2 size guitars are just the right size for kids, coming in at 1/2 of the scale length of full-sized instruments (most 1/2 size acoustic guitars measure about 20 inches). Not only does this make playing more comfortable; it also makes learning new songs easier because you don’t have to stretch as far across the fretboard. Plus half size guitars often come equipped with scaled down tuners and other accessories that make them just as playable as a full-sized guitar.

There are a number of different brands that make half size guitars, but some of the most popular are Cordoba, Fender, Yamaha, Hohner, and Oscar Shmidt. Let’s have a look at what makes these particular brands so great for kids.

What guitar sizes are good for beginners

Guitar sizes for beginners come in a variety of shapes and sizes. It can be tough to determine which size guitar is best for a beginner, which is why it’s important to understand the different types of guitars and their measurements. Here you can see guitar sizes explained very well.

The smallest and most common guitar size is the 3/4 size guitar. It is recommended for kids ages 7-10, or for anyone under 5’6″. These guitars are typically around 22-24 inches in length and have a shorter scale length than full-sized guitars, making them easier to play.

Next up is the 1/2 size guitar. A half size guitar is recommended for kids ages 5-7, or for anyone under 4’8″. These guitars are around 20 inches in length and have a shorter scale length than full-sized guitars, making them easier to play.

Finally, there’s the full-sized guitar. Full-sized guitars are recommended for kids ages 10 and up, or anyone over 5’6″. These standard sized guitars range between 24-26 inches in length and have a scale length of 25.5 inches, making them the longest and most difficult to play of the three sizes.

So if you’re wondering what size guitar to buy for your child or yourself, consider starting with a 3/4 or half size guitar. You can always upgrade to a full size guitar when your child is older and has grown into their instrument.

Now that you know about the different types of guitar sizes, you’re one step closer to finding the right guitar for you or your child.

What guitar sizes are good for kids

Different kids will have different sized hands that are in proportion to their body. To determine what size guitar is best for your child, you should take the height of your child and subtract 13 inches. This will be the full-size guitar length which can be too big for a lot of children. You could also measure the full spread of your child’s hand at the knuckles to get an idea of what full-sized guitar will work for them. From this measurement, subtract 6 inches. The result would be the full size guitar length which would be ideal for that particular size hand.

Guitar Size Chart for kids guitar - 1/2 size guitar
Guitar Size Chart

In addition to full-sized guitar sizes, another option for kids is a 1/2 size guitar. A full-sized guitar has an overall length of 41 inches, while a 1/2 size guitar has an overall length of 34 inches. This can be a great option for kids who are just starting out on guitar or for kids who have smaller hands.

What are 1/2 sized guitars used for

1/2 sized guitars are not just for children. In fact, they can be used by anyone who wants an instrument that’s easier to play. 1/2 size guitars are often used by beginner guitarists who are just starting out, as well as by guitarists with small hands or who are looking for an instrument that’s easier to transport.

Of course 1/2 size guitars are also great for kids, because they make playing the guitar more comfortable and easier to learn. This is especially true of half size guitars with shorter scale length, which are typically recommended for children.

But what about full-size guitars? Despite being harder to play, full-sized guitars are often preferred by guitarists who want a rich tone. 1/2 size guitars offer half the scale length of full-sized guitars, which means they don’t produce as rich or full of a tone. However half size guitars with longer scale lengths typically come equipped with scaled down tuners and other accessories, making them just as playable as a full-sized guitar.

So if you’re looking for an instrument that’s easy to play and transport, a 1/2 size guitar is a great option. If you’re looking for a full-sized guitar with a rich tone, consider upgrading to a full size guitar when your child is older and has grown into their instrument.

What to look for in a 1/2 size guitar (brand, quality, etc)

There are a few things to look out for when choosing one for kid or beginner. Here are some key things to consider:

  • Check the reviews of the 1/2 size guitar to make sure it’s been well made and that it will last. Brands like Cordoba, Yamaha, Hohner, and Oscar Schmidt offer half size guitars that have quality construction with quality materials.
  • Consider how much space you have in your home – half size guitars come in different shapes and sizes so you want to find one that can fit into your living space
  • Know what you want to play on the guitar. If you’re looking for half sized acoustic guitar, half size electric guitar, or half size classical guitar, make sure to find the right type of 1/2 size guitar
  • Lastly, consider your budget. 1/2 size guitars can range in price from around $50 to $200, so you’ll want to find one that’s affordable for your family.

You can also measure the full spread of your child’s hand at the knuckles to get an idea of what full-sized guitar will work for them. From this measurement, subtract 6 inches. The result would be the full size guitar length which would be ideal for that particular size hand.

FAQs: Buying 1/2 size guitar for children

Q: What size guitar should I buy for my child?

This will depend on your child’s age and height. Generally, a 1/2 size guitar is a great option for children aged 4 to 7. For children aged 8 and up, a full-size guitar may be a better fit.

Q: How do I know what size guitar my child needs?

You can find the perfect guitar size by measuring your child’s height and matching it to the size of a guitar.

Q: What size guitar for a 7 year old?

A half size guitar is the perfect fit for a child aged 4 to 7 years old.

Q: What size guitar for 8 year old?

A full-size guitar may be a better fit for children aged 8 and up.

Q: Is a half size guitar good for older kids too?

Yes, many children who are aged 8 and up find that a half size guitar is the perfect size for them.

Q: How long will half size guitar last?

Most children will be able to play a half size guitar until they are around 11 or 12 years old.

Best 1/2 size guitar for children

Now you know a little bit more about half-size guitars, let’s take a look at five best 1/2 guitars available on the market today.

  • Cordoba Mini II M
  • Yamaha CGS102A
  • HOHNER HAG250P
  • Oscar Schmidt OGHS-A-U
  • ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar

1) Cordoba Mini II M

Cordoba Mini II M is a half size guitar for children. It is perfect for beginners as it is not too big or intimidating, and the smaller size makes it easier to hold and play. The guitar also comes with a built-in strap, which is great for keeping the instrument secure while you are playing.

The sound quality of the Cordoba Mini II M is excellent for a guitar of its size. The strings are well-tuned and provide a good range of notes, making it easy to play a variety of songs. The guitar is also lightweight and easy to transport, which is great for taking it with you on the go.

This guitar has a built-in pickup and preamp, so you can take it with you and play anytime. The guitar also has a built-in tuner, which makes life easier when practicing or performing. The guitar is made with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, so it has a warm tone that’s perfect for beginners.

It’s ideal for children, but it can be used by adults as well. The guitar is just over 24 inches long and has a scale length of 19.75 inches. If you are looking for the best 1/2 size guitar, this is one of your best options. The The Cordoba Mini II M is a great choice for anyone who wants an affordable, lightweight guitar.

Cordoba Mini II M
Cordoba Mini II M

Key Features:

  • Lightweight guitar
  • Travel sized for ease of transport
  • Built in tuner and pickup/preamp

2) Yamaha CGS102A

Yamaha CGS102A is a classical guitar that offers beginners value for money. With good tone and projection, the Yamaha CGS102A is an ideal beginner’s nylon string guitar. The Yamaha CGS102A is a well-crafted classical guitar that is perfect for beginners, but advanced guitarists will also enjoy the playability and tone of this instrument. It has a spruce top with meranti back and sides while it has a natural lacquer finish that brings out the color of the wood. The Yamaha CGS102A is available in three different sizes: full, ¾ and ½ size.

Overall, It’s difficult not to praise an excellent beginner guitar such as this. For a serious young student wanting to build their skill, it’s pretty close to an ideal choice. It’s a top-selling Yamaha model for that very reason.

Yamaha CGS102A
Yamaha CGS102A Classical Guitar

Key Features:

  • Chorus and Delay effects
  • Overdrive option for solos
  • Solid body, die cast machine heads
  • New compact design with an aluminum top panel.

3) HOHNER HAG250P

Hohner guitar history is filled with iconic instruments, and the Hohner HAG250P is no exception. This guitar was designed by master luthier Michael Tobias and is a true work of art. It features an agathis body and mahogany neck, hardwoord fingerboard, black ivoroid binding, and chrome tuners with pearloid keys. The HAG250P produces amazing sound, making it perfect for any musician looking for an outstanding instrument.

Its dimensions are 26″x11″ and it weighs in at just over five pounds. The guitar is easy to hold, with a short fretboard that makes it much easier for kids to grasp the concept of chords.

The half size is ideal for children ages seven and up. Its small size makes it easy for kids to transport, and the short fretboard makes learning chords a breeze. The guitar is also great for traveling. It’s a great choice for musical children who want to bring their guitar on trips with them wherever they go, or parents searching for the perfect first guitar for their child. The HOHNER HAG250P is a great choice for any kid who wants to start learning how to play guitar.

HOHNER HAG250P 1/2 Size Guitar
HOHNER HAG250P

Key Features:

  • Variety of sounds
  • Durable construction
  • Transpose function
  • 250-Piece chromatic set
  • Sturdy build quaility

4) Oscar Schmidt OGHS-A-U

Oscar Schmidt OGHS-A-U ​guitar is a 1/12 guitar size guitar that can be used by children as young as five years old. The guitar’s body, neck and headstock are all made of Linden wood, and the guitar is fitted with two steel strings. The guitar has a natural finish that allows the woodgrain to show through

The guitar is a great choice for beginner guitar players, as the small size makes it easy for kids to hold and learn guitar chords. This guitar is a great gift for children that want to get into guitars and music, but don’t necessarily have the hand or arm size for a full-size guitar.

The Oscar OGHS-A-U guitar also comes with a carrying case, so your child can take the guitar with them wherever they go. It has a mellow sound, and is perfect for playing folk or country music. The guitar also comes with a tuning wrench, so you can keep the guitar in tune. The OGHS-A-U is a great choice for beginner guitar players, and is sure to provide hours of enjoyment for any child that plays it.

Oscar Schmidt OGHSB-A-U half size guitar
Oscar Schmidt OGHSB-A-U Dreadnough Guitar

Key Features:

  • Strings for kids
  • Tuning machine head parts
  • Guitar tuning keys types
  • Strap peg

5) ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar

ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical is the guitar that is perfect for kids. It has adjustable strings to ensure you can get them at just the right tension, and its smaller guitar size will make it easier for small hands to play. This guitar is also great value, because you can get a guitar with high-quality guitar strings and a solid wood guitar for the price of an inferior plastic guitar.

ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar is even easier for kids to hold, because the guitar’s neck is narrower and its guitar body has a smaller footprint. These cool guitars are available in four different colors, so your child can pick the guitar that best suits their personality. The guitar is also lightweight and easy to transport, which is great for kids who love to play guitar on the go.

ADM Guitar is great for kids who are just learning guitar, or it can be a great guitar for experienced guitarists who are looking for a smaller sized guitar. This guitar is perfect for anyone who wants to learn how to play guitar, and it’s a great choice for kids who want to start their musical journey.

ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar - 1/2 Size Guitar
ADM Beginner Acoustic Classical Guitar

Key Features:

  • Guitar sizes for kids
  • Adjustable strings
  • Four different colors
  • Lightweight and easy to transport

Conclusion

So, what makes 1/2 size guitars a great choice for kids? First and foremost, they’re much more affordable than full size guitars. This makes them more accessible for kids who are just starting to experiment with music. If the guitar is too big, the child may feel overwhelmed and discouraged. A 1/2 size guitar is the perfect size for a beginner, allowing them to build confidence and skills without feeling frustrated. Many 1/2 size guitars are also designed for kids, with bright colors and fun designs. This can make learning to play more enjoyable for kids.

Finally, a 1/2 size guitar is perfect for travel. It’s easy to pack up and take with you wherever you go.

Sharing is caring

Related Articles