The main places to buy a guitar
You can buy a guitar from a music store, a general retailer, online marketplaces, or a private seller. Each route has different prices, return policies, and chances to play the instrument before you buy. A music store lets you hold and test guitars in person; online retailers often have lower prices but you cannot hear the sound before it arrives; used marketplaces and private sellers offer older or discounted models but require you to inspect the condition yourself.
The choice depends on whether you want to play before buying, how much you want to spend, and whether you need the guitar quickly. A beginner might start at a music store to get information and try different sizes. Someone replacing a stolen guitar might order online for speed. A budget-conscious player might search used listings for a deal.
Key Takeaways
- Music stores let you play guitars before buying and offer staff information, but typically charge more than online retailers.
- Online retailers like Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, and Amazon have lower prices and wider selection, but you cannot test the sound or feel before delivery.
- Used marketplaces including Reverb, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist offer lower prices but require you to inspect condition and verify the seller.
- Big-box retailers like Walmart and Target stock beginner models at low prices but offer limited selection and less informed guidance than music stores.
- Private sellers through local classifieds or word-of-mouth often have the lowest prices but no return protection if something is wrong with the guitar.
Music stores: playing before you buy
A local or regional music store is the only place where you can hold the guitar, play it, and hear how it sounds before paying. Staff can answer questions about size, string gauge, and setup. They can also show you how to hold the instrument and help you pick a model that fits your hands and budget.
Music stores typically charge more than online retailers for the same model because they have rent, staff, and inventory costs. They may also have a limited selection compared to large online sites. However, many offer in-store repairs, string replacement, and lessons, which can be worth the higher price if you are new to guitar.
To find a music store near you, search "guitar shop near me" or "music store [your city]" online. Call ahead to confirm they have the type and price range you want in stock, since smaller stores may not carry every model.
Online retailers: lower prices and wider choice
Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, Thomann, and zZounds are the largest online music retailers in North America. They stock thousands of models from budget beginner guitars to high-end instruments, usually at prices 10 to 20 percent lower than music stores. Most offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount and have return windows of 30 to 45 days if the guitar does not meet your expectations.
Amazon also sells guitars from multiple sellers, though quality and return policies vary by seller. Check the seller rating and read reviews from other buyers before ordering. General retailers like Walmart and Target stock a small range of beginner and mid-range acoustic and electric guitars online, often at competitive prices.
The main drawback of buying online is that you cannot play the guitar before it arrives. You are relying on product photos, descriptions, and reviews from other buyers. If the sound or feel is not what you expected, you will need to return it, which takes time and shipping costs money even if the retailer covers the return label.
Used marketplaces: lower cost, higher risk
Reverb is the largest online marketplace for used and vintage guitars. It connects buyers and sellers worldwide, offers buyer protection if a guitar does not match the listing, and handles payment so you do not send money directly to a stranger. Reverb charges a seller fee, so prices are usually fair but not the absolute lowest.
eBay also has a large used guitar section with auction and fixed-price listings. Buyer protection is available if the item does not arrive or does not match the description, but you are responsible for inspecting the guitar after it arrives. Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist connect you with local sellers, which means you can inspect the guitar in person before paying and avoid shipping costs. However, these platforms offer no buyer protection, so you are trusting the seller's honesty about the condition.
When buying used, ask the seller for photos of the neck, frets, body, and headstock. Ask whether the guitar has been repaired, refinished, or had the neck reset. If you are not experienced enough to spot damage, consider paying a local music store to inspect the guitar before you complete the purchase.
Big-box retailers: budget beginner models
Walmart, Target, and Best Buy stock a small selection of beginner acoustic and electric guitars, usually priced between $80 and $300. These are entry-level models designed for someone trying guitar for the first time. The guitars are often house brands or budget lines from larger manufacturers.
The advantage is low price and the ability to return the guitar to a nearby store if you change your mind. The disadvantage is limited selection, no informed staff to help you choose, and no in-store testing in most locations. If you are buying for a child or want to try guitar without spending much, a big-box retailer can work. If you are serious about learning, a music store or online retailer will give you better options.
Private sellers and local classifieds
Buying from a private seller through word-of-mouth, local bulletin boards, or community groups often yields the lowest price because the seller has no overhead. You can inspect the guitar in person and negotiate the price. However, you have no return protection if the guitar has hidden damage or does not work as described.
Before meeting a private seller, ask for photos and a description of any damage, repairs, or modifications. Ask how long they have owned the guitar and why they are selling. If possible, bring someone who plays guitar to the meeting so they can test it. Meet in a public place and bring cash if that is what the seller requests.
What to compare across sellers
Price is important, but it is not the only factor. Compare the return policy: music stores and online retailers usually offer 30 to 45 days to return; used marketplaces like Reverb offer buyer protection; private sellers offer none. Compare shipping cost and time: online retailers may offer free shipping but take a week to arrive; local sellers have no shipping cost and you get the guitar when ready.
Compare warranty: new guitars from retailers usually come with a manufacturer's warranty covering defects; used guitars rarely do. Compare selection: music stores have what is in stock; online retailers have thousands of models; used marketplaces have what other people are selling that day. Compare the chance to play before buying: only music stores and private sellers offer this.
A beginner with a tight budget might buy a used guitar from a private seller or Reverb, inspect it in person or ask the seller detailed questions, and save money. A beginner who wants guidance and a return option might buy from a music store. Someone who knows exactly what model they want might order online for the lowest price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe to buy a guitar online?
Yes, if you buy from an established retailer like Sweetwater, Musician's Friend, or Reverb. These sites have return policies and buyer protection. Avoid sellers with no reviews or ratings. Read the return policy before you order so you know what to do if the guitar does not meet your expectations.
What should I look for when buying a used guitar?
Check the neck for cracks or warping by sighting down it from the headstock. Look at the frets for deep wear or corrosion. Inspect the body for cracks, dents, or water damage. Play each string to make sure it sounds clear and the tuning pegs turn smoothly. Ask the seller about repairs or modifications.
Can I return a guitar if I change my mind?
Most online retailers and music stores allow returns within 30 to 45 days if the guitar is in resalable condition. Used marketplaces like Reverb have return policies but may charge a restocking fee. Private sellers and Craigslist have no return protection, so inspect carefully before you pay.
Is a cheaper guitar from a big-box store okay for a beginner?
A budget guitar can work for a beginner trying guitar for the first time, but a slightly more expensive model from a music store or online retailer will usually play and sound better, which makes learning easier. Spending $150 to $250 instead of $80 often makes a big difference in how the guitar feels and sounds.
Should I buy new or used?
New guitars come with a warranty and are may provide to be in good condition. Used guitars cost less but require you to inspect them carefully or pay someone to do it. If you are new to guitar, a new beginner model from a music store or online retailer is usually the safer choice.