Choosing between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar can be tricky. Both look similar, but they work in different ways. An acoustic guitar makes sound naturally, while an acoustic-electric can be plugged into an amp for more volume.
If you love the warm, rich sound of a classic acoustic, you might not need extra electronics. But if you want to perform on stage or experiment with effects, an acoustic-electric is a great option.
In this guide, I’ll break down the differences, pros and cons, and which one suits you best. Whether you’re a beginner or looking for an upgrade, this will help you decide the right guitar for your playing style and needs.
Differences Between Acoustic and Acoustic-Electric Guitars
Acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars might look the same, but they have some key differences. The biggest one? The main difference between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar is the built-in electronics.
Acoustic guitars rely solely on their hollow bodies to project sound, while acoustic-electric guitars have pickups and preamps that allow them to be amplified without external microphones. This makes them more useful for stage performance and recording.
Sound Production and Tone
An acoustic guitar produces sound through acoustic resonance. When you strum the strings, the vibration travels through the bridge into the body wood, where the sound bounces around.
Then the hollow body makes the sound louder and escapes through the sound hole. This creates a natural tone, which changes based on the wood type, bracing, and body shape.
An acoustic-electric guitar works the same way but includes electronic amplification. The pickups inside the guitar capture string vibrations and convert them into an electric signal. This lets you plug into an amp or PA system, making it easier to control your volume and tone.
Sound Quality
Acoustic guitars sound warm and natural. The type of wood affects the tone – some sound bright, others deep. This is why no two acoustic guitars sound exactly the same.
These acoustic guitar sound differences come from factors like body wood, bracing, and string type.
Acoustic-electric guitars also sound like regular acoustics when unplugged. But when amplified, the sound can change depending on the pickup and amp settings.
Some players think electronics change the natural tone, while others say high-quality pickups make no difference. Either way, you can adjust the sound to fit different styles.
Volume and Tone Control
With a regular acoustic, you can’t control the volume or tone. The only way to get louder is to strum harder or use a mic. The sound is shaped by the neck profile, action, and your playing technique. Some players use a capo or different tuning to change the tone.
Acoustic-electric guitars give you more control. You can adjust volume and tone with built-in knobs. Some even have equalizers to tweak the sound. You can also add effects like reverb or chorus.
The amplified sound makes it great for live settings, while a pure acoustic might struggle to be heard over other instruments.
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Playability and Versatility
Both guitars feel the same in your hands, but an acoustic-electric is often designed for easier playability. Many models have a cutaway body, letting you reach higher frets easily. Some have lower action, so you don’t have to press as hard on the strings.
Acoustic guitars are great for playing unplugged, whether you’re at home, jamming with friends, or writing songs. They shine in folk, country, and classical music.
Acoustic-electric guitars are built for stage performance and recording. They work well in different music styles, from pop and rock to jazz. In a recording studio, they’re easier to connect to recording equipment.
You can play them like a regular acoustic at home, then plug them in for a show. This makes them better for musicians who want flexibility.
Portability and Convenience
A plain acoustic guitar is simple. You don’t need anything extra – no cables, no amps – just pick it up and play. You can take them anywhere without worrying about extra gear.
Acoustic-electric guitars are still portable, but they need an amp and cables if you want the amplified sound. Some models are slightly heavier because of the electronics inside.
If you travel a lot and want to keep things simple, an acoustic might be a better choice.
Cost
Acoustic guitars come in different price ranges. You can find good beginner models for under $200, while high-end models go for thousands.
Acoustic-electric guitars are usually more expensive because of the built-in electronics. Basic ones start at around $200-$300, and top-tier models can be over $2,000.
Maintenance
Acoustic guitars need basic care—changing strings, keeping the body clean, and storing them properly.
Acoustic-electric guitars need the same care, but you also have to check the electronics. Some use batteries for the preamp, so you’ll need to replace them when they run out.
Pros & Cons of Each Type
| Feature | Acoustic Guitar | Acoustic-Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Richer, more natural tone | Can sound slightly thinner when amplified |
| Portability | No electronics, lighter | Slightly heavier due to pickup, preamp, output jack, etc. |
| Amplification | Requires an external mic or pickup | Built-in pickup allows easy amplification |
| Versatility | Limited in volume control | More control over tone and volume |
| Best For | Pure acoustic playing, recording with a mic | Performing live, connecting to effects and amps |
Who Should Choose Which?
Picking between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar depends on how and where you want to play. Both are great, but one might suit you better than the other.
For Beginners
If you’re just starting, either type will work. Acoustic guitars are simple—no buttons, no wires, just pure sound. You can focus on learning chords and strumming without worrying about amplifiers or batteries.
Acoustic-electric guitars, however, give you more options. If you plan to play with a band or perform later, having built-in electronics can be helpful.
For Home Players & Casual Musicians
If you mostly play at home or with friends, a regular acoustic guitar is a great choice. It sounds full and natural without needing an amp. Plus, it’s usually cheaper and requires no extra equipment. You can always use a clip-on pickup or a microphone if you ever need amplification.
For Live Performers
If you plan to perform on stage, an acoustic-electric guitar is the better choice. It can be plugged into an amp or a sound system, making it easier to be heard in a big room. You also get volume and tone controls, so you can adjust your sound without needing extra microphones.
For Recording
Acoustic guitars sound best when recorded with a microphone. They capture a richer, more natural tone. However, acoustic-electric guitars are more convenient for recording because you can plug them directly into a recording device or an audio interface.
Final Choice
If you want simplicity and natural tone, go for an acoustic guitar. If you think you’ll perform on stage or record music or need amplification and more control over your sound, an acoustic-electric gives you more options.
Related Article: If you're still unsure which type of guitar to start with, check out our article on 'Acoustic vs Classical Guitar' for a more in-depth comparison between these two popular acoustic guitar styles.
Cost Considerations
The price of a guitar depends on its quality, materials, durability and features. Acoustic and acoustic-electric guitars come in different price ranges, so here’s what you can expect at each level.
Budget ($100 – $300): If you’re a beginner, you’ll find many affordable and entry-level options in this range. These guitars are typically made with laminated wood, which may not offer the same depth of tone as solid wood but is still suitable for practice and learning.
Some brands also provide starter kits that include an amplifier, strap, and cable for acoustic-electric models, making it easier to get started. While these budget-friendly guitars serve as great beginner instruments, they may not retain their resale value like higher-end models.
Mid-Range ($300 – $800): These guitars have better wood quality, improved sound, and a more comfortable feel. Acoustic-electric guitars in this range usually have better pickups and preamps, meaning they sound clearer when plugged in.
The durability of these guitars is also better, making them a solid long-term choice. Brands like Fender, Ibanez, and Takamine offer solid options here.
Premium ($800 and Up): High-end guitars are made with solid wood, giving them a fuller tone. Acoustic-electric models in this range have advanced electronics, offering more control over tone.
Many professional musicians prefer these guitars because of their superior craftsmanship and lasting value. Brands like Martin, Gibson, and Taylor dominate this level, making guitars that sound amazing both unplugged and amplified.
A well-maintained high-end guitar can also have strong resale value, especially if it’s from a reputable brand.
If you’re just starting, a budget or mid-range model is a great choice. If you’re serious about playing, investing in a higher-quality guitar will be worth it in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you play an acoustic-electric guitar without plugging it in?
Yes, you can play an acoustic-electric guitar without plugging it in. It functions like a regular acoustic guitar, producing sound acoustically through its hollow body. However, plugging it in amplifies the sound and allows for tone adjustments.
Is an electric acoustic guitar easier to play?
An acoustic-electric guitar is not necessarily easier to play than a regular acoustic guitar. The playability depends on factors like string gauge, neck shape, and action height. Many acoustic-electric guitars have lower action and thinner necks, making them more comfortable for some players.
Can I turn my acoustic guitar into an acoustic-electric?
Yes, you can turn an acoustic guitar into an acoustic-electric by installing a pickup system. Common options include soundhole pickups, piezo pickups, and internal microphone systems. These pickups capture vibrations and convert them into an electrical signal for amplification.
Related Article: If you are thinking bout installing a pickup and looking for some suggestions, just check out the detailed review of the best acoustic guitar pickups.
Final Words
Choosing between an acoustic and an acoustic-electric guitar depends on how you want to play. If you love a natural sound and plan to play at home or in small gatherings, an acoustic guitar is perfect. If you want to perform on stage or record with ease, an acoustic-electric gives you more options.
When I started, I played an acoustic because it was simple and didn’t need extra gear. Later, when I wanted to play with a band, an acoustic-electric made things easier.
Think about your needs before deciding. The best guitar is the one that fits your style and goals. Whether you choose an acoustic or an acoustic-electric, the most important thing is to keep playing and enjoying music.
Thomas M., the founder of Guitar Top Review, boasts 15+ years of guitar experience and was a church band member in L.A. Transitioning from piano to acoustic guitar, his first love remains his Taylor GS Mini. Alongside like-minded hobbyist friends, he launched the site, driven by a deep love for music that transcends professional boundaries.