3/4 Size Acoustic Guitar Vs Full-Size

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Standard-sized guitars, aka larger guitars, and three-quarter models differ in many areas, all resulting from the obvious size differential.
• Full-size guitars stay in tune longer when compared to smaller models, due to string tension.
• Three-quarter guitars are good for beginners, as they are easier to play and make for good travel guitars. Classical guitars with nylon strings and electric guitars are also available as smaller models. 

If you are new to the world of folk strumming, you may want to compare three-quarter-size acoustic guitars vs full-size models. The best guitars, after all, ship in a wide variety of sizes to suit different playing styles, and many are acoustic guitars. So what are the main differences between these two types, and which is the best for you? Keep reading to find out.

Differences Between 3/4 Guitars and Full-Size Guitars

The big and obvious difference here is the size if you are looking for the best children’s guitar sizes. This makes the smaller guitars easier to play if you are looking to avoid those dreaded guitar fingers. Smaller acoustics also tend to be on the cheaper side if you are looking for the best acoustic guitar under $300, in addition to being more portable.

Here are more differences between these two popular types of acoustic guitars so you can make an informed purchase decision.

Tuning

Unfortunately, one downside to smaller acoustics is that they fall out of tune quicker when compared to full-size guitars. This is due to low string tension and an overall looser feel with regard to the strings. So if you are new to playing or tuning, you may want to choose a full-size guitar to limit the number of times you have to tune. However, there is something to be said for learning and getting good at the process.

Sound

Full-size guitars are going to project more when playing, offering a more even sound with plenty of bass, treble, and mid-range. Three-quarter size guitars, on the other hand, will offer a somewhat limited sound range, as some of the bass will be reduced. Expect plenty of treble and mid-range to make up for it. Neither sound is bad, per se, as many players actually prefer three-quarter acoustics for their unique sound palette.

Portability and Travel

Smaller guitars, by their very nature, are easier to travel with like the one in our Martin LXM review. Some three-quarter guitars can even fit inside luggage, so you can stow them in an airplane’s upper cabin without having to use an additional carry-on. The same goes for car travel, train travel, and bus travel. Three-quarter guitars are so small, as a matter of fact, that you can actually play them in the car, though not while driving.

Three-Quarter vs Full-Size Guitar FAQs

Is it easier to play three-quarter guitars?

It is easier to play due to the decreased string tension of small-scale guitars. This makes them a good beginner guitar when compared to a full-size acoustic guitar, though starting easy does have its drawbacks later on.

What is the size of a full-size guitar? 

When it comes to guitar sizes, there are no actual metrics for a full-size guitar, as they feature multiple body depths, shorter scales, larger scales, different-sized upper frets, and more. All you need to know is that they are larger than three-quarter designs and offer a louder sound, particularly when equipped with steel strings. 

Should you buy a full-sized guitar for your child? 

Full-sized guitars, even electric guitars or classical guitars with nylon strings, are harder to play than three-quarter models, but this is not necessarily a bad thing. Choosing a type of guitar that is harder to play at first leads to increased expertise later on. 

STAT:

“A full-size guitar has a scale length that is longer than 24 inches, whereas the scale length on 1 a ¾ guitar is between 20 and 24 inches.” (source)

TIP: No matter which you choose, maintain and clean your guitar regularly to ensure a decent lifespan.

Sources:

https://guitarspace.org/acoustic-guitars/3-4-guitar-vs-full-size/

https://www.pmtonline.co.uk/blog/2010/10/14/what-guitar-size-should-i-buy/

https://dacapomusic.ca/child-guitar-sizes/

https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=214506

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/search.php?s=3%2F4+size+guitar