Do you want to learn guitar or are you looking for the right instrument for your child? One of the most common questions at the beginning is: "What guitar size do I actually need?"
Choosing the right scale length (the length of the vibrating strings) is crucial for playing comfort and learning success. If the guitar is too large, the hand cramps; if it is too small, clean fretting is difficult. In this guide from Dany's Music Shop, we show you how to find the ideal instrument in two simple steps.
Step 1: Body height as a guide (scale length table)
The player's body height is the most important first indicator. In the following table, you can see which scale length usually suits which body height:
Guidelines for Guitar Sizes
| Guitar Size | Body Height (approx.) | Age (approx.) |
| 1/4 | 100 cm – 115 cm | 4 – 6 Years |
| 1/2 | 115 cm – 135 cm | 6 – 9 Years |
| 3/4 | 135 cm – 150 cm | 9 – 12 Years |
| 7/8 | 150 cm – 160 cm | 11 – 13 Years |
| 4/4 (Standard) | from 160 cm | from 13 Years / Adults |
Step 2: The "Elbow Test" – How to measure individually
Since not only body height, but also arm and hand span are important, there is a proven trick from experts: the elbow test.
How to perform the test:
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Hold the guitar and place your forearm parallel to the guitar neck.
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Your elbow rests at the base of the neck/body.
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Now look at your wrist: The wrist bone should ideally be between the first and second fret.
The result:
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If the wrist is higher (towards the headstock)? The guitar is too big.
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If it's lower? The guitar is too small.
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Do you hit exactly the area between fret 1 and 2? Congratulations – that's your instrument!