The 10 Best Bass Guitars for Kids (2023)
Starting to play an instrument as a kid is fantastic and has many positive effects on children. However, learning to play bass at a young age can be challenging as it is difficult for kids even to hold the instrument. Just for this reason, many brands offer smaller and more compact bass guitars to allow kids to enjoy this instrument right away.
I’m an experienced bass guitarist so I know what’s important when it comes to buying a bass. Bass guitars for kids should be lightweight and small so they can be played with small hands. That is why short-scale and 3/4 size bass guitars are ideal for kids.
My main recommended guitar is the Squier Bullet Bronco. With its comfortable and player-friendly C-shaped neck, short scale length, and lightweight body, this bass is a great option for kids that delivers good sound.
As a second recommended option, I suggest the Ibanez GSRM20. The compact, lightweight body and short scale length of this bass make it perfect for travel and beginners. The dynamic P pickup and fast, slim maple neck delivers a full sound despite its smaller size.
For this guide on the best bass guitars for kids, I took into consideration the size and weight of each bass guitar, making sure they were comfortable and manageable for a child to hold and play. This involved considering the length of the instrument, the thickness of the neck, and the weight of the body.
Bass guitars for kids are slightly smaller than a regular bass, but still have the same sound and feel. They may be smaller, but they definitely pack a punch. Plus, they’re great for small gigs where space is limited.
The Best Bass Guitars for Kids (2023) – At a Glance
Now let’s look at the full list.
1. Squier Bullet Bronco
This is a lightweight bass guitar that weighs about 7 pounds. The Squier Bullet Bronco Bass provides a comfortable playing experience thanks to its light build, letting you enjoy jam sessions without shoulder or back pain.
Pros
- Affordable and great value for money
- Ideal for beginners and those with smaller hands
- Short 30″ scale length for easy playing
- Comfortable “C” shaped neck profile
- Lightweight and slim body
- Solid construction and stays in tune well
Cons
- Original electronics may be subpar, though easily upgradeable
- Not suitable for professional gigging without modifications
The Squier Bullet Bronco combines easy playability and rich, full sound provided by the solid agathis body. The smooth “C”-shaped neck offers a retro feel fit for various techniques, making your bass playing versatile and creative.
The Squier Bullet Bronco Bass is also great value for money, making it an excellent starter bass for beginners and experienced players. Its stylish design isn’t overlooked, featuring a classic black color and a two-tone headstock logo for a sophisticated look.
Specs
- Scale Length: 30”
- Neck Finish: Satin
- Fretboard Material: Maple
- Body Material: Poplar
2. Ibanez GSRM20BS
The Ibanez GSRM20BS is designed for comfort, with a small and lightweight structure that is ideal for those with smaller hands or new to the instrument. Its short scale makes it easier to play, and its reduced size and weight make it convenient for travel and tight spaces. This is a significant advantage for bass fans who want portability without sacrificing performance.
Pros
- Affordable and great value
- Short scale, easy to handle
- Ideal for beginners and those with small hands
- Good tone and sound quality
- Lightweight and compact
Cons
- Slight fret buzz, may require setup/adjustments
- Not as high-quality craftsmanship as more expensive basses
- The neck may be too narrow for some players
The bass guitar’s slim maple neck is a pleasure to play, making it easy for musicians of all skill levels. It has a rosewood fretboard that is known for its warm, rich tones, allowing players to smoothly move between notes and fully express their creativity.
The bass’s versatile magnetic pickup combination is a notable feature, providing both beginners and seasoned players with a wide range of sound options. The powerful P pickup delivers a strong, dynamic tone that works well with any genre or playing style. The stable fixed bridge system keeps the instrument consistent and reliable for any performance.
Specs
- Body Material: Poplar
- Neck Material: Maple
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 28.6 inches
3. G&L Tribute Fallout Short Scale
The G&L Tribute Fallout Short Scale offers a special mix of sound qualities, made from a combination of rosewood, poplar, and maple parts. The poplar body gives a full and echoing tone, while the hard rock maple neck improves sustain. The warm, even sound from the rosewood fretboard adds to the bass’s adaptability and performance.
Pros
- Lightweight at 12 pounds
- Attractive Olympic White color
- Rosewood fretboard for smooth playability
- Humbucker pickup configuration for versatile tones
- Hard Rock Maple neck for stability
Cons
- Stock strings aren’t the best
- Pricey
The short-scale design makes this electric bass easier to play, perfect for beginners or those with smaller hands. I liked the smooth playing experience and the comfortable weight of just 12 pounds, letting players enjoy longer sessions without discomfort.
I enjoyed how this bass creates such lovely, clear sounds and looks impressive, perfect for performances. Its powerful and versatile sound creates rich, clear tones, capturing the feeling and emotion of each note. Naturally, the price is a bit steep compared to other competitors.
Specs
- Body Material: Rosewood
- Neck Material: Hard Rock Maple
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration: Humbucker
4. Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet Bass II
The Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet Bass II is a lightweight bass guitar with a basswood body. This beauty produces a well-balanced sound that you’ll enjoy. I’m impressed by its exceptional fit and finish, making it great for long jam sessions and gigs since it won’t weigh you down as you play.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Almost immaculate fit and finish
- Comfortable playability with a shorter scale length
- Versatile bass with an adjustable bridge
- Thundering sound from Gretsch single-coil pickups
Cons
- A slight adjustment to string action is needed
- Not the highest-quality tonewoods
The Junior Jet Bass II has a 30.3-inch scale length, which ensures easy playability and increased comfort for players of all skill levels. This shorter scale is both comfortable and versatile, making it easy for kids or players with smaller hands.
This attractive bass also has a 12-inch radius laurel fretboard with dot markers, adding visual appeal and helping guide your fingers to the correct notes. With 20 medium-sized jumbo frets, this bass is suitable for various music styles.
Specs
- Body Material: Basswood
- Top Material: Maple, Walnut, Basswood
- Scale Length: 30.3 inches
- Pickup Type: Gretsch single-coil bass pickups
5. Ibanez TMB30IV
Discover the convenience of a 30-inch short-scale bass with a range of sound options, perfect for those looking to try new music styles. The Ibanez TMB30IV bass is great for various skill levels and works well for those switching from a classic six-string guitar.
Pros
- Versatile tone options with powerful electronics
- Lightweight and comfortable to play
- A short, 30″ scale is easy on the fingers
- Quick and easy neck for smooth playing
- Impressive sound quality at an entry-level price
Cons
- Slight fret buzz issues
- May require minor setup adjustments
This bass delivers deep sounds thanks to the poplar body and sturdy maple neck, which provide a mix of stability and dynamic tone. The clear P & J pickups bring incredible depth and richness, and the jatoba fretboard adds a pleasant mid-range and bright higher tones.
I was impressed by the outstanding tone and sound quality of this bass. Its ability to produce different sounds sets it apart from other instruments. You have the classic Ibanez design with a reimagined body shape and timeless color choice. The medium-sized frets help improve note accuracy, and a custom Ibanez 2-band EQ offers a variety of tone options.
Specs
- Body and Back Material: Poplar
- Fretboard Material: Jatoba Wood
- Neck Material: Maple
- Pickups: Dynamix PJ Pickups
6. Squier Mini Precision Bass
Made by the renowned Fender, this small precision bass features a dark-toned exterior and a stylish design without sacrificing quality. It has a light poplar wood body and a basswood back, making it both comfortable and visually appealing. The laurel wood fingerboard adds to its high-quality feel, making it popular among musicians.
Pros
- Affordable and great value
- Top-notch neck and body
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good for beginners
- Solid construction
- Versatile sound
Cons
- Hardware and electronics are basic
- Stock strings are low quality
- Needs setup and adjustments
A notable feature of this small bass guitar is its 28.6-inch neck, allowing players of all sizes to easily move around the fretboard. The smooth neck finish enhances the playing experience, and the four-string design is suitable for both beginners and experienced bassists. The fixed bridge system also gives reliable tuning for consistent performance.
Designed for accuracy and flexibility, this mini bass is equipped with a split single-coil Precision Bass pick-up, delivering strong and rich tones. I really like that it’s easy to play and has good sound quality for its price, with sealed die-cast tuners.
Specs
- Scale Length: 28.6
- Tuners: Sealed die-cast
- Body Material: Poplar wood
- Guitar Bridge System: Hardtail Bridge
7. Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass
The slim and light design of the Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass stands out, as it is expertly made from Poplar. Its Lake Placid Blue color makes it a beautiful sight as well as a delight to hear. Its 34-inch scale provides comfort and ease of playing for musicians at any skill level.
Pros
- Quality pickups with good sound
- Attractive Fender design
- Lightweight body
- Slim “C”-shaped neck profile
- Good for beginners and seasoned players
Cons
- Stock strings need replacing
- Needs setup and adjustments
This bass guitar ensures comfort and control with its slim “C”-shaped Maple neck and Laurel fingerboard. What I appreciated about this bass guitar was its excellent sound for a reasonable price. The PJ pickup layout, with a Squier split single-coil P Bass at the neck and a single-coil J Bass at the bridge, combines classic and modern bass-playing styles.
This creative design allows for various tones, fitting many music genres. The solid 4-saddle bass bridge adds to this instrument’s great sound and appearance. Overall, it adds up to a well-rounded and excellent choice for kid bassists.
Specs
- Body Material: Poplar
- Neck Material: Maple
- Fretboard: Laurel
- Scale Length: 34”
8. Oscar Schmidt OB25‑B 3/4 Size Bass
Made of sturdy alder wood, this bass guitar provides a rich tone and long-lasting durability. Its excellent construction maintains a consistent, pleasant resonance, making it an ideal addition to any musician’s collection. The quality materials enhance the playing experience and the aesthetics of the instrument.
Pros
- Great for kids and small hands
- Lightweight
- Solid wood body
- Tonal flexibility
- Chrome die-cast tuners
Cons
- Not for larger hands
- Limited string gauge options
Featuring a dual pickup design, the sound flexibility and diversity of the Oscar Schmidt OB25‑B are unbeatable. Easily adjust the mix of low-end power and mid-range clarity for various musical styles. The ‘H’ pickup configuration offers even more tone options, adapting to each player’s unique style.
Keeping the player in mind, this bass comes in a four-string version suitable for most bassists and genres. The sleek size and light weight make it perfect for performers of all ages, allowing easy handling and reduced fatigue during long practices or concerts.
Specs
- Body Material: Alder
- Color: Chrome
- Pickup Configuration: Split (H)
- Tuners: Die-cast Chrome
9. Epiphone SG Bass E1
The Epiphone SG Bass E1 stands out for its striking Cherry Red color and iconic SG design. Its chrome fittings add to the visual appeal while also increasing durability, creating a beautiful, functional instrument.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Good sound quality for the price
- Attractive, classic Epiphone SG shape
- Carved mahogany body and bolted neck
- Easy to play, especially for beginners
- Short scale length suitable for smaller hands
Cons
- Limited tonal variation due to single pickup
- Stock strings need to be replaced
- Has a slight fret buzz
A well-made mahogany body greatly affects sound quality, and this bass guitar delivers rich, deep tones perfect for versatile playing. Its rosewood fingerboard also makes it very enjoyable to play. Its 30.5-inch scale and secure mahogany neck make it easier for beginners or those with smaller hands to handle.
The dot markers on the fretboard and the 3-point bridge help with finger positioning, tuning, and string height adjustments, ensuring a pleasant playing experience for all skill levels. I appreciate that it’s affordable and short-scaled, making it suitable for beginners or those on a budget.
Specs
- Body and Neck Material: Mahogany
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- Scale Length: 30.5 inches
- Pickup Configuration: Single SideWinder Humbucker
10. Yamaha TRBX174
With a beautiful mahogany body, the Yamaha TRBX174 provides amazing tone quality and ensures it lasts a long time. The mahogany wood produces deep, warm sounds, giving a strong tone foundation for any bassist, whether they’re a beginner or an experienced pro.
Pros
- Great value for the money
- Excellent tone
- Well-built and durable
- Good for beginners and experienced players
- Visually appealing, various color options
Cons
- May need some adjustments to sound and play optimally
- A slight string buzz is prevalent
The TRBX174 model offers unique, exotic wood tops for those who want something different, making each bass look special. With a lot of options to choose from, these beautiful choices make the instrument a stunning centerpiece for any musician’s collection.
This lightweight, four-string bass weighs around 7 pounds, making it very comfortable for long playing sessions. It has a slim maple neck and a rosewood fretboard, which allows easy playability so musicians like me can focus on our music without any problems. This bass is a perfect combination of style and substance, and it’s affordable too.
Specs
- Body Material: Mahogany
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- String Material: Alloy Steel
- Scale Length: 34″
Key Features and Qualities to Look for in a Bass Guitar for Kids
When looking for a suitable bass guitar for kids, it is important to go over some key features like size, weight, scale length, and other crucial factors that make a good beginner bass. For smaller-hand players and beginners, there are a lot of options available that can suffice.
Size and scale length
Size and scale length are crucial factors to consider when choosing a bass guitar for a kid, as they directly affect the comfort and playability of the instrument. Short-scale bass guitars, like the Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet Bass II and the Ibanez GSRM20BS, typically have a scale length between 28 and 32 inches, making them more accessible for smaller hands and shorter arms.
This allows children to easily reach and play all the frets without straining their hands and wrists, encouraging proper playing technique and preventing potential injury.
3/4 Size Bass Guitars
A 3/4 size bass guitar is a regular bass guitar downsized to 3/4 of its regular size. So it is actually a mini bass guitar. The proportions are all the same, but as it is smaller and lighter, it is easier to handle by small hands and bodies.
Short Scale Bass Guitars
A short-scale bass guitar is defined by its shortened neck and string length. The body remains the same, but as the neck is smaller, the frets are closer to each other. This leads to a bass guitar that is easier to handle with smaller hands.
Weight and comfort
Weight and comfort should be a top priority when searching for the perfect bass guitar for kids. A lightweight instrument, like the Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet Bass II, enables younger players to hold and play the bass with ease, minimizing the strain on their shoulders and back. The shorter scale length, as seen in the Ibanez TMB30IV, offers added comfort, especially for smaller hands or individuals with limited reach.
Quality and durability
When considering a bass guitar for kids, it’s crucial to focus on the quality and durability of the instrument. A well-made, sturdy bass will not only make it easier for beginners to learn, but it will also withstand the test of time, especially with younger players who may be more prone to accidents or rough handling.
Take, for example, the Gretsch G2220 Junior Jet Bass II and the Squier Mini Precision Bass – both of these models have been built with quality materials like basswood and maple, ensuring longevity and excellent sound.
Price and value for money
Price and value for money should always be a top consideration when purchasing a bass guitar for kids, as you want to ensure that you are investing in a dependable, high-quality instrument without breaking the bank.
Buyers Guide
Electric vs. Acoustic Bass Guitars
Electric bass guitars are more comfortable due to their slim neck design and lighter weight, making them the preferred choice for kids. Acoustic basses, on the other hand, offer a different experience with a distinct natural sound, best used for specific genres and unplugged performances.
Understanding Hardware and Pickups
Hardware and pickups, like those in G&L Tribute Fallout Short Scale Bass Guitar, can significantly alter the sound and playability of a bass guitar. Research and compare options to ensure the right choice for your child’s preferences and musical goals.
Ease of Playability
Setup and action are crucial in ensuring comfort and ease of playability. Epiphone SG Bass E1, for example, has a well-balanced design and a fully adjustable bridge, offering a smooth playing experience.
Learning to Play: Resources and Tips
Choose the best learning materials, and online lessons (tutorials), and enroll in lessons with a qualified instructor to support your child’s musical development. Instruments such as the Squier Affinity Series Precision Bass PJ grant access to the Fender Play app which is an excellent resource for beginners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do kids need an amplifier for their bass guitar?
Generally, yes, especially for electric bass guitars. Since electric bass guitars have a significantly lower natural volume, a bass amp is the way to go. For practice purposes, it is important for your child to hear their playing clearly.
What’s the difference between 4- and 5-string basses?
A 5-string bass has an added lower B string, providing a broader range of notes. However, 4-string basses are more comfortable for children starting.
Is it ever too late for a child to learn?
No, it’s never too late to begin learning an instrument! Learning to play an instrument from a young age is beneficial for several reasons like improving motor function, discipline, and having fun above all else.
What is the appropriate size for a bass guitar for kids?
The size of the bass guitar must be proportional to the kid’s height and arm length. A 3/4 size bass guitar is best for kids between the ages of 7-13.
Should I get a fretted or fretless bass guitar for a child?
Fretted bass guitars are more popular among kids because they are easier to learn, play and handle. Fretless bass guitars are for more experienced players because it requires a lot of muscle memory and a lot of general knowledge of the fretboard.
What is the average cost of a bass guitar for kids?
You can get a decent beginner bass guitar for kids for around $100 to $300. However, the price range will depend on the brand, quality, and material used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there’s never been a better time to get your young musician started on bass! With so many amazing options available, it’s easy to find a bass that’s age-appropriate, easy to play, and most importantly, fun!
My main recommended bass is the Squier Bullet Bronco. For kids, it is a great option due to its lightweight design, short scale length, and player-friendly C-shaped neck. Plus, it is really affordable!
If you’re looking for a second option, I highly recommend the Ibanez GSRM20BS. Its shorter 28.6″ scale and dynamic P pickups make it another great choice for kids or anyone with smaller hands. And don’t be fooled by its smaller size – this bass is made to the same high standards as its full-sized counterparts.
