Key Differences at a Glance
The FS800 and FG800 are essentially siblings in Yamaha’s entrylevel guitar line. Both are built with solid Sitka spruce tops, nato back and sides (a costeffective alternative to mahogany), and rosewood fingerboards. They’re affordable, reliable, and have a sound that punches well above their price.
Here’s where they diverge:
Yamaha FS800: Smaller concertsize body Yamaha FG800: Standard dreadnoughtsize body
That difference in shape impacts how each guitar sounds and feels, and that’s why the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs matter more than you’d think.
Tone & Projection
Body shape affects tone and volume. The FG800, with its dreadnought body, has a deeper, fuller low end. It projects more—nice if you’re playing in a group setting or strumming more aggressively. Think big room, big sound.
The FS800, on the flip side, has a tighter, more focused sound. Midrange tones are clearer and highs ring more sharply. It’s not as loud, but it’s more articulate. Fingerpickers and light strummers usually gravitate toward this one.
Comfort & Playability
The FS800’s smaller concert body means it’s just easier to hold—especially if you’re on the shorter side, have smaller hands, or just prefer something lighter and more compact. It’s a great choice for younger players or anyone prioritizing comfort.
The FG800 is a bit more of a handful. It feels bigger in the lap and under the arm, which can be solid if you like that “traditional” acoustic feel. But if comfort is high on your priority list, the FS800 might be a better fit.
Scale length and nut width are nearly identical between the two, so how they feel under your fingers is very similar. The difference is mostly in the body.
Build Quality
Yamaha keeps build standards high, even at budget prices. Both guitars share:
Solid Sitka spruce top Scalloped Xbracing for strength and resonance Nato/okume back and sides Rosewood fingerboard and bridge Diecast chrome tuners
This means both models are a notch above other starter guitars in terms of tone and durability. Solid tops, especially, age better—with more playing time, the tone actually improves.
These guitars hold tune well, survive daily use, and don’t feel cheap. Yamaha’s noname alternatives struggle to match that.
Aesthetic & Finish
Both guitars are available in a natural gloss finish. The FG800 has a slightly more “classic” look, thanks to its iconic dreadnought shape and traditional black pickguard.
The FS800 leans more modern and minimalist. Slightly slimmerlooking and often more attractive to players aiming for a less bulky aesthetic.
There’s no real functional difference here, but if you’re picking purely based on looks, that could tip the scale.
Price & Value
The kicker? These guitars cost about the same. Despite the different body shapes and sound profiles, retailers price them within $20–30 of each other. You’re really choosing shape and sound preference, not investing more for better parts.
That’s part of the reason the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs comparison is one people keep returning to—it’s less about “which is better” and more about “which fits your style.”
Who Should Buy the FS800?
Go for the FS800 if:
You’re smallerbodied or looking for a lighter, more manageable guitar. You lean toward fingerpicking or light strumming. Bright, focused tone is your thing. You’ll mostly be playing solo or in small settings. Comfort is a big buying factor.
The smaller body excels in clarity and comfort without giving up build quality or tone projection, unless you’re planning to really push airflow.
Who Should Buy the FG800?
The FG800 is the move if:
You want powerful projection for group jams or larger rooms. You’re into rhythm playing and fullthroated strumming. You like a bigger body against your chest—it just feels “right.” You’re chasing that traditional acoustic vibe both in look and feel.
This is a budget dreadnought with the bark of a more expensive guitar. It’s no wonder it’s a goto recommendation for beginners who want something they won’t outgrow quickly.
Final Take: Which One’s for You?
There’s no loser here. It’s all about fit. The Yamaha FS800 and FG800 are both strong contenders under $250 and boast more quality than typical beginner acoustics. But once you factor in the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, you’ll probably know which one’s calling your name.
Concert vs dreadnought. Comfort vs power. Clarity vs warmth.
Figure out your play style, your physical comfort needs, and where you’ll be playing most often—and go from there. Good gear doesn’t have to be complicated. These two make the decision easier by being consistently excellent no matter where you land.