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10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.8 score

Fender FA-25N 3/4 Size Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Perfect Beginner Guitar for Kids that is Easy on Fingers, Includes 3 Months of Free Lessons, Natural

The Fender 6 String Acoustic Guitar, specifically the FA-25N 3/4 Size model, is a great choice for beginners looking to learn the guitar. Its smaller, 3/4-size body makes it particularly suitable for children and those with smaller hands, making it easier to handle and play. The nylon strings are gentle on the fingers, which is a plus for new players, and the 'C' shaped neck design enhances playability. With a solid reputation for quality craftsmanship from Fender, this guitar promises durability and reliability, backed by a 2-year limited warranty.

#2
9.6 score

Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural

The Fender CN-60S Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar is a solid choice for both beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable nylon-string guitar. One of its standout features is the solid spruce top, which provides a bright and resonant sound, paired with a laminated mahogany back and sides that enhance its warmth. The scale length of 25.3 inches is comfortable for most players, making it easier to reach the frets without straining. The 12-inch fingerboard radius is quite user-friendly, particularly for those transitioning from steel-string guitars.

Rating
9.6
Body Size and Shape

Most important from
1812 reviews

Body Size and Shape
The smaller size is convenient and might be especially good for young students.
#3
9.3 score

Ibanez TOD10N Tim Henson Signature Nylon-string Acoustic-electric Guitar - Black

The Ibanez TOD10N Tim Henson Signature Nylon Acoustic-electric Guitar stands out with its sleek black finish and quality craftsmanship. With a spruce top, sapele back and sides, and a walnut fingerboard, it's designed for rich sound and durability. The nyatoh neck ensures a comfortable playing experience, and the fixed bridge system adds to its stability.

Rating
9.3
Body Size and Shape
Electronics

Most important from
54 reviews

Body Size and Shape
It's a fun instrument to play, with a size that feels just right and offers good value.
Electronics
The built-in tuner was a pleasant surprise, adding to the guitar's comfort and ease of play.

Top 10 Best Nylon String Guitars 2025 in the United States

Fender CN-140SCE Thinline Concert Nylon String Acoustic Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Black, with Case

Body Size and Shape: Thinline Concert
Top Wood: Cedar
Scale Length: 25.3
Bracing Pattern: Classical fan bracing
Electronics: Fishman Classic Design pickup/preamp

Cordoba Mini II M, Mahogany, Small Body, Nylon String Guitar

Body Size and Shape: 1/2 size body
Top Wood: Mahogany
Neck Width: 1.875 inches
Scale Length: 22.875 inches
Electronics: None

Takamine GC5-NAT Classical Guitar, Natural

Body Size and Shape: medium
Top Wood: Spruce
Scale Length: 25.6 Inches
Bracing Pattern: fan-braced

Ibanez GA5TCE Classical Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Body Size and Shape: Thin line body
Top Wood: Spruce
Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
Electronics: Piezo pickup system
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Buying Guide for the Best Nylon String Guitars

Choosing the right nylon-string guitar can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know what to look for. Nylon-string guitars, also known as classical guitars, are known for their warm, mellow tones and are often used in classical, flamenco, and folk music. When selecting a nylon-string guitar, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you find the best fit for your playing style and needs.
Body Size and ShapeThe body size and shape of a nylon-string guitar affect its sound and playability. Smaller bodies, like parlor or concert sizes, produce a more focused and intimate sound, making them ideal for fingerstyle playing and smaller hands. Larger bodies, such as grand concert or dreadnought, offer a fuller, louder sound with more bass response, suitable for strumming and louder performances. Choose a body size that feels comfortable to hold and suits your playing style.
Top WoodThe top wood, or soundboard, of a nylon-string guitar significantly influences its tone. Common choices include spruce and cedar. Spruce tops provide a bright, clear sound with good projection, making them versatile for various playing styles. Cedar tops offer a warmer, more resonant tone with a quicker response, ideal for fingerstyle and classical music. Consider the type of music you play and the sound you prefer when selecting the top wood.
Neck WidthThe neck width of a nylon-string guitar affects playability, especially for fingerstyle techniques. Classical guitars typically have wider necks (around 2 inches at the nut), which provide more space between strings, making it easier to play complex fingerings. Some crossover or hybrid models have narrower necks (closer to 1.8 inches), which can be more comfortable for players transitioning from steel-string guitars. Choose a neck width that feels comfortable for your hand size and playing style.
Scale LengthThe scale length is the distance between the nut and the saddle, affecting string tension and playability. Standard scale lengths for nylon-string guitars range from 25.5 to 26 inches. Longer scale lengths provide more string tension, resulting in a brighter tone and more volume, but can be harder to play. Shorter scale lengths offer less tension, making the guitar easier to play, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. Consider your comfort and the sound you prefer when choosing the scale length.
Bracing PatternThe bracing pattern inside the guitar's body supports the top wood and influences the instrument's tone and projection. Traditional fan bracing is common in classical guitars, providing a warm, balanced tone with good sustain. Lattice bracing offers more volume and a brighter sound, often preferred by modern classical guitarists. Choose a bracing pattern that complements your playing style and desired sound.
ElectronicsIf you plan to perform or record with your nylon-string guitar, consider a model with built-in electronics. These systems typically include a pickup and preamp, allowing you to amplify your sound without losing the guitar's natural tone. Look for features like onboard tuners and EQ controls for added convenience. If you primarily play acoustically, electronics may not be necessary, but they can be a valuable addition for versatility.

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