The Mini Guitar: Choosing the Perfect Travel Guitar in 2023

Mini guitars are an oddity in the guitar world. Although toy-like in size they're a great addition to any guitar collection to keep practicing while on the go or just sitting on the sofa. While there is no formal definition of a mini guitar, it's widely accepted that they have a compact size smaller than traditional guitars and range from truly being a toy to being a travel workhorse for guitarists.  

In the past, mini guitars weren't made to blow minds but companies are now bringing both innovation and quality to more recent variants. In fact, some mini guitars pack so much punch that they've abandoned the typical low price point in order to provide an experience any guitarist would love.

Before we dive into our top picks here are three requisites for any mini guitar:

1. Durability. Mini guitars are going to take a beating so it's important to choose one that is built well and can withstand a few knocks during travel.
2. Tuning Hardware. Many mini guitars take shortcuts with cheap headstock hardware resulting in a guitar that always goes out of tune.
3. Sound. Despite their smaller body, mini guitars can still produce a desirable sound. Look out for quality materials like maple and mahogany bodies as well as rosewood necks even on these pint size instruments.

We spent hours researching and testing various mini guitars from lesser known companies to behemouths like Fender and Taylor. Here are top picks taking into account the best sound quality, playability, and value. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, our guide will help you find the perfect mini guitar for your needs.

Best Mini Guitars of 2023

Whether you're a seasoned musician looking for a travel-friendly option or a beginner starting out, these mini guitars offer a compact and convenient alternative to their full-sized counterparts. We've also made sure to include both mini acoustic guitars as well as mini electric guitars in our picks.

Best Mini Electric Guitar - Blackstar Carry-On Guitar

Blackstar Carry-On Review:

The Carry-On by Blackstar takes our pick for the best mini electric guitar. The body of the guitar is made from a single piece of Okoume wood which has mahogany-like tonal qualities in a light package. Blackstar is more known for their amazing guitar amps but they've packed a punch in this 18 fret mini guitar with a single humbucker pickup that delivers some genuinely pleasing tones.

The Carry-on comes in a variety of colors and has details in the laminate and in-lays that really set it apart at this price point. Not to mention, the accessories included are unmatched with a gig-bag, the amPlug2 FLY Guitar headphone amp that plugs into the line input, and even an a5 notebook and pen to take notes while on the go.

While retailing for $399, at the time of writing this article we were able to find Blackstar's Carry-On travel guitar for just $179! Buy it here

Pros:

• A bargain at <$200 (when available)
• Proper full-width neck makes playing enjoyable
• Humbucker pickup provides a rich smooth tone

Cons:

• Included strings are purposefully thicker than a standard guitar but we'd recommend changing to a lower gauge
• Some folks complain it's a bit slippery to hold when laying on the lap - but this is common with most mini guitars
  

Best Mini Acoustic Guitar - Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag

If you're looking for a compact and lightweight acoustic guitar that's perfect for travel, the Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The unique shape of the guitar makes it easy to fit into small spaces, making it ideal for travel.
• The guitar is lightweight and easy to carry around, making it perfect for taking on the road.
• The guitar comes with a padded carry bag, which makes it easy to transport and protect.

Cons

• The guitar doesn't have the full bass sound of a regular acoustic, but this is to be expected with a small body.
• The sound can be a little hollow, but this is also to be expected with a small body.
• The guitar may not be suitable for those who are used to playing larger guitars.

We were impressed with the Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag. The guitar is easy to play and tune, and the unique contour neck shape makes it comfortable to hold and play. The guitar features a solid spruce top and solid tonewood back and sides, which provide a good balance of tone and projection.

The guitar also features a 24-inch scale length and 15 frets, which makes it easy to play and suitable for a variety of playing styles. The guitar comes with a padded carry bag, which makes it easy to transport and protect.

Overall, we would highly recommend the Martin Steel String Backpacker Travel Guitar with Bag to anyone looking for a compact and lightweight guitar that's perfect for travel. It's easy to play, easy to tune, and comes with a padded carry bag for added convenience.

Best Mini Classical Guitar - Yamaha GL1 Guitalele

If you're looking for a unique and fun instrument, the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is definitely worth considering. We highly recommend this product for its versatility and quality.

Pros

• The guitalele is a unique and fun instrument that combines the size of a baritone ukulele with the playing style of a standard guitar.
• The tuning of the guitalele is pitched up to "A" (or up to a 4th) at A/D/G/C/E/A, which makes it easy to play and learn for guitar players.
• The guitalele comes with a soft case bag, which makes it easy to transport and store.

Cons

• The narrow fretboard may take some time to get used to, especially if you have larger hands.
• The strings may need to be replaced with higher quality ones for optimal sound.
• The guitalele may not be suitable for professional musicians or those looking for a traditional guitar sound.

The Yamaha GL1 Guitalele is a versatile and fun instrument that is perfect for beginners and casual players. Its unique size and tuning make it easy to learn and play, and the included soft case bag makes it easy to transport. The narrow fretboard may take some getting used to, but once you do, you'll be able to play comfortably. The guitalele's sound quality is good, but for optimal sound, you may want to consider replacing the strings with higher quality ones. Overall, we highly recommend the Yamaha GL1 Guitalele for anyone looking for a fun and unique instrument to play.

Also Great! Martin LXK2 Little Martin Koa Pattern HPL Top with Padded Gig bag

If you're looking for a mini guitar that's easy to carry around and has a great sound, the Martin LXK2 Little Martin Koa Pattern HPL Top with padded gig bag is an excellent option.

Pros

• The "1-style" Sitka spruce bracing gives the guitar a nice, full sound.
• Martin's patented neck mortise makes the guitar incredibly easy to play.
• The C.F. Martin script logo on the headstock is a nice touch.

Cons

• The pattern on the top and back of the guitar can be a bit sloppy.
• Some of the money was clearly put into the neck, rather than the overall construction of the guitar.
• The sound quality isn't quite as good as some of the more expensive options out there.

We've been using the Martin LXK2 Little Martin Koa Pattern HPL Top with Padded Gigbag for a while now, and we're really happy with it. The Sitka spruce bracing gives the guitar a nice, full sound that's perfect for playing a variety of different styles. The patented neck mortise also makes the guitar incredibly easy to play, even for beginners.

One thing we did notice is that the pattern on the top and back of the guitar can be a bit sloppy. It's not a huge deal, but it's definitely something to keep in mind if you're looking for a guitar with a more polished look. Additionally, some of the money was clearly put into the neck, rather than the overall construction of the guitar. While this isn't necessarily a bad thing, it does mean that the sound quality isn't quite as good as some of the more expensive options out there.

Overall, we think the Martin LXK2 Little Martin Koa Pattern HPL Top with Padded Gigbag is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a mini guitar that's easy to carry around and has a great sound. It's not perfect, but it's definitely a great option for anyone who wants a solid, reliable guitar that won't break the bank.

Electric Mini Guitars

Electric mini guitars are a smaller version of traditional electric guitars. They are perfect for players who want a compact and portable instrument that still delivers a great sound. These guitars are also great for kids or beginners who are just starting to learn how to play.

Electric mini guitars come in a variety of shapes and styles, from classic Les Paul designs to modern, futuristic models. They are also available in a range of colors and finishes, so you can choose one that matches your personal style.

One of the advantages of electric mini guitars is their versatility. They can be used in a variety of genres, from rock and metal to jazz and blues. They are also great for playing in small spaces, such as apartments or dorm rooms, where a full-sized guitar may be too loud.

Another benefit of electric mini guitars is their affordability. They are often less expensive than full-sized electric guitars, making them a great option for budget-conscious players.

Overall, electric mini guitars are a great choice for anyone looking for a compact and portable instrument that still delivers a great sound. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, there is an electric mini guitar out there that is perfect for you.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a mini guitar, there are a few things to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs. In this section, we'll go over the key features to look for when shopping for a mini guitar.

Size and Weight

One of the main advantages of a mini guitar is its size and portability. When choosing a mini guitar, make sure to consider its size and weight. A mini guitar should be small enough to be easily transported but not so small that it becomes difficult to play. It should also be lightweight enough to be carried around without causing any discomfort.

Sound Quality

Another important factor to consider when choosing a mini guitar is its sound quality. While mini guitars are generally not as loud as full-sized guitars, they should still produce a good sound. Look for a mini guitar with a solid top, as this will improve the overall sound quality.

Materials

The materials used to make a mini guitar can affect both its sound quality and durability. Look for a mini guitar made with high-quality materials, such as solid wood, to ensure it will last for years to come.

Additional Features

Some mini guitars come with additional features, such as built-in tuners or preamps. While these features can be useful, they can also add to the cost of the guitar. Consider whether these features are necessary for your needs before making a purchase.

In summary, when choosing a mini guitar, consider its size and weight, sound quality, materials, and any additional features it may have. By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a mini guitar that is both portable and produces a great sound.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a miniature guitar called?

A miniature guitar is commonly referred to as a mini guitar or a travel guitar. It is a smaller version of a regular guitar, designed to be more portable and easier to carry around.

Are mini guitars suitable for beginners?

Mini guitars can be suitable for beginners, especially for children or those with smaller hands. They can also be a great option for those who want to practice on-the-go or in smaller spaces.

What is the purpose of a mini guitar?

The purpose of a mini guitar is to provide a more portable and convenient option for guitar players. They are great for traveling, practicing in small spaces, or for those who prefer a smaller instrument.

Do mini guitars produce a different sound?

Mini guitars can produce a slightly different sound compared to regular guitars due to their smaller size. However, the difference is usually not significant enough to affect the overall playing experience.

Where can I find mini guitars for sale?

Mini guitars can be found at music stores, online retailers, and even some department stores. It's important to do your research and read reviews before making a purchase to ensure you are getting a quality instrument.

What is the difference between a mini guitar and a ukulele?

While mini guitars and ukuleles may look similar, they are two different instruments. Mini guitars have six strings and are tuned like a regular guitar, while ukuleles have four strings and are tuned differently. Additionally, the sound produced by each instrument is different.

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