Which Guitar Does Taylor Swift Use? 🎸 Discover Her Top 7 Picks (2025)

Ever wondered what guitar fuels Taylor Swift’s chart-topping hits and electrifying live shows? Spoiler alert: it’s not just one! From sparkling Taylors that shine as brightly as her personality to vintage Gibsons that add a rockstar edge, Taylor’s guitar collection is as diverse and dynamic as her music career. In this article, we unravel the mystery behind her favorite six-strings, explore her signature models, and reveal how her guitar choices shape her sound and stage presence.

Did you know Taylor owns over 100 guitars? Some are custom-made masterpieces adorned with Swarovski crystals, while others are travel-sized workhorses perfect for songwriting on the go. Curious about whether she ever plays classical nylon-string guitars? Or which electric guitar powers her pop anthems? Stick around—we’ve got all the juicy details straight from the experts at Guitar Brands™.

Key Takeaways

  • Taylor Swift’s guitar arsenal is dominated by Taylor Guitars and Gibson models, reflecting her versatile musical style from country roots to pop-rock stadium anthems.
  • Her signature Taylor Swift Baby Taylor is designed to inspire young players and fans alike.
  • The Taylor GS6 and GS Mini are iconic for their bright tone and stage presence, often customized with dazzling crystal embellishments.
  • For electric vibes, Taylor favors Gibson Les Pauls, known for their powerful sustain and classic rock tone.
  • Despite rumors, Taylor rarely uses classical nylon-string guitars, preferring the bright, cutting sound of steel-string acoustics.
  • Her guitar choices directly influence her songwriting mood and live performance energy, making each instrument a vital creative partner.

Ready to play like Taylor? Check out the best places to find her favorite guitars and their budget-friendly alternatives in our detailed buyer’s guide later in the article!

Table of Contents

Alright, let’s tune up and dive into the six-string world of a songwriting titan. You’ve asked, “Which guitar does Taylor Swift use?” and, let me tell you, that’s like asking a chef about their favorite spice—there isn’t just one! Here at Guitar Brands™, we’ve spent countless hours dissecting the tones, styles, and sheer visual splendor of Tay-Tay’s arsenal. So, grab a coffee, get comfortable, and let’s unpack the story behind the guitars that have launched a thousand hits.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts About Taylor Swift’s Guitars

For those who want the highlight reel, here are the essential, rapid-fire facts about Taylor’s guitar collection.

  • A Tale of Two Brands: Her loyalty is primarily split between two giants: Taylor Guitars (no relation, just a happy coincidence!) and Gibson.
  • More Than a Hundred! Believe it or not, Taylor Swift owns over 100 different guitars. Many are heavily customized, making them one-of-a-kind treasures.
  • Acoustic at Heart: While she shreds on electrics, her core identity is tied to the steel-string acoustic guitar. It’s her primary tool for songwriting and intimate performances.
  • Signature Model: Yes, she has her own signature guitar! The Taylor Swift Baby Taylor (TS-BT) is a 3/4 size travel acoustic she co-designed with Taylor Guitars to inspire young songwriters.
  • Bling is the Thing: From her early days, Taylor has loved a sparkly guitar. Her famous Swarovski crystal-adorned Taylor GS6 was a hallmark of the Fearless era, a tradition she’s continued with a crystal-studded Gibson J-180 on the Eras Tour.
  • Not a Classical Player: You’re unlikely to see her performing with a classical nylon-string guitar; their mellow, soft tone doesn’t quite fit her country and pop-rock sound.

🎸 The Evolution of Taylor Swift’s Signature Guitar Style

Every guitarist’s journey is a story, and Taylor’s is a blockbuster. She received her first guitar at age eight, but the magic really started when a computer repairman taught her a few chords around age 12. From that moment, a guitar was rarely out of her hands.

Her early career was defined by the bright, articulate sound of Taylor acoustics, which perfectly complemented her country storytelling. Think of the “Our Song” music video, where her bedazzled Taylor GS6 became almost as iconic as the song itself. This era cemented her image as the girl-next-door with a guitar and a story to tell.

As her music evolved, so did her guitar rack. The transition to pop with albums like Red and 1989 saw her embracing electric guitars. Suddenly, the Gibson Les Paul became a staple, adding a rock-and-roll edge to her stage presence. She wasn’t just a songwriter anymore; she was a stadium-commanding rockstar. This ability to blend genres and eras makes her a modern icon, much like the legends we discuss in our guide to What Brands Made the 80s Guitars? 🎸 Top 7 Icons Revealed (2025).

The folklore and evermore eras brought a return to her roots, with vintage and folk-inspired instruments like a 1959 Silvertone 604 taking the spotlight, reflecting the albums’ intimate, woody tones. Now, on the monumental Eras Tour, we see the full tapestry of her career, with a different guitar for nearly every musical chapter. It’s a masterclass in using an instrument to define an era.

1. Taylor’s Taylors: The Acoustic Beauties She Swears By

It feels like destiny, doesn’t it? A superstar named Taylor building her career on the impeccable craftsmanship of Taylor Guitars. Her relationship with the brand started when she was just a teenager and has remained a cornerstone of her sound. As highlighted in a CBS8 interview with the company, while she plays various brands, Taylor guitars have a special “personality” that helps draw out her songs.

Taylor 614ce: The Classic Workhorse

Feature Rating (1-10)
Sound & Tone 9/10
Playability 10/10
Stage Presence 8/10
Versatility 9/10

The Taylor 614ce Grand Auditorium is a quintessential Taylor Swift guitar. She famously used a custom Borrego Red model during her B-stage performances on the Red tour.

  • Why We Love It: The Grand Auditorium shape is Taylor’s signature for a reason. It’s the Swiss Army knife of acoustic guitars—big enough to deliver powerful strumming, yet contoured enough for delicate fingerpicking. The maple back and sides give it a bright, focused tone that cuts through a mix, perfect for a solo performer in a massive stadium.
  • Features & Benefits:
    • âś… Expression System® Electronics: Taylor’s onboard pickup system is legendary for producing a natural, warm amplified tone.
    • âś… Venetian Cutaway: Allows for easy access to the upper frets, which is great for more complex lead lines.
    • âś… Exceptional Playability: Taylor necks are famously comfortable, making them a dream to play for hours on end.
  • The Downside:
    • ❌ Price Point: As a premium, American-made instrument, it’s a significant investment.

👉 Shop Taylor 614ce on:

Taylor GS6 and GS Mini: Compact Powerhouses

Remember that sparkly guitar from the “Our Song” video? That was a Taylor GS6 Grand Symphony that she and her family famously adorned with Swarovski crystals. The Grand Symphony body shape is a bit larger and more powerful than the Grand Auditorium, with a deep, piano-like bass.

For those of us without a stadium crew, the Taylor GS Mini is a fantastic alternative. It captures the rich voice of the Grand Symphony in a scaled-down, travel-friendly package. It’s one of the most popular models in our Acoustic Guitars showcase for its incredible volume and tone for its size.

Then there’s the Taylor Swift Baby Taylor (TS-BT). Released in 2009, this 3/4-size dreadnought is based on the guitar she used for songwriting on the tour bus in her early days. With her “Love, Love, Love” rosette design, it’s an inspiring instrument for beginners and a perfect travel guitar for seasoned players.

👉 Shop these models on:

Custom Taylor Models Made for Swift

Taylor’s collection includes some incredibly rare and custom-built Taylor guitars.

  • The “Living Jewels” Koi Guitar: A stunning Taylor Grand Symphony featuring an intricate koi fish inlay. This guitar, reportedly a gift for her 18th birthday, made a prominent appearance during the Speak Now tour and has been seen again on the Eras Tour.
  • Taylor Presentation Series PS-24ce: This is arguably her most sentimental and visually stunning acoustic. Used during the acoustic set of the Eras Tour, this custom model features a body made of gorgeous flamed koa wood and a custom “Taylor Swift” inlay on the fingerboard.

2. The Gibson Eras: Electric and Acoustic Gems

As Taylor’s sound grew, so did her love for the legendary growl and warmth of Gibson guitars. From jumbo acoustics to iconic solid-body electrics, Gibson has been her brand of choice for making a bold statement.

Gibson J-180: The Vintage Vibe

Feature Rating (1-10)
Sound & Tone 9/10
Playability 8/10
Stage Presence 10/10
Versatility 7/10

The Gibson J-180 has become a modern-day Swift staple, especially on the Eras Tour. Known for its comfortable, thinner body and iconic star inlays on the fretboard, it’s a guitar with history. She uses several custom versions, including powder blue and pink models for the Lover set and a dazzling, crystal-covered version for the Fearless era.

  • Why We Love It: The J-180 has a balanced, powerful sound that’s perfect for her blend of pop and folk. Mat Koehler, Gibson’s Vice President of Product, notes that Taylor favors a J-180 with a long scale length, which “adds power and presence to be able to cut through a mix.” It’s the perfect balance of style, comfort, and projection for her.
  • Features & Benefits:
    • âś… Iconic Aesthetics: The star inlays and classic shape are instantly recognizable.
    • âś… Comfortable Body: Thinner than a super jumbo like the J-200, making it easier to handle on stage.
    • âś… Rich, Balanced Tone: Delivers that classic Gibson acoustic warmth.
  • The Downside:
    • ❌ Hard to Find: Gibson doesn’t currently produce the J-180 as a standard model, making them rare on the used market. The closest modern equivalent is often considered the Gibson J-200 or the more accessible Epiphone J-180 LS.

👉 Shop alternatives on:

Gibson Les Paul: Rocking the Electric Stage

When Taylor plugs in, she often reaches for a Gibson Les Paul. Her red-sparkle Les Paul was a fiery centerpiece of the Red and Speak Now tours. It’s a guitar that screams rock and roll.

  • Why We Love It: Is there anything more iconic than a Les Paul? Its thick, powerful tone and incredible sustain are legendary. Taylor’s choice of a Les Paul, often highly customized with a diamante finish, shows she’s not afraid to step into the role of a lead guitarist and command the stage.
  • Features & Benefits:
    • âś… Massive Tone: The combination of a mahogany body and humbucking pickups delivers a sound that can go from warm and smooth to a snarling roar.
    • âś… Endless Sustain: Notes ring out for days, perfect for powerful solos and melodic lines.
    • âś… Timeless Design: It’s a true classic that looks at home on any stage.
  • The Downside:
    • ❌ Heavy: The solid mahogany body can be a workout for your shoulder during a three-hour show!

👉 Shop Gibson Les Paul on:

3. Does Taylor Swift Play Classical Nylon String Guitar? Exploring Her Nylon-String Choices

We see this question pop up a lot, and it’s a great one! The short answer is: not really. Taylor Swift is known almost exclusively for playing steel-string acoustic guitars.

So, what’s the difference, and why does it matter?

Steel-String Acoustic Classical Nylon-String
Sound: Bright, crisp, loud, metallic Sound: Mellow, warm, soft, round
Feel: Higher string tension, narrower neck Feel: Lower string tension, wider neck
Best for: Strumming, flatpicking, folk, country, pop, rock Best for: Fingerstyle, classical, flamenco, bossa nova

Taylor’s entire musical catalog is built on the powerful, ringing sound of steel strings. That bright tone is what allows her guitar to cut through a full band and fill an arena. While she may have occasionally used a nylon-string guitar in the studio for a specific texture, it is not a part of her core sound or live performances. Her songwriting style, which blends rhythmic strumming with melodic hooks, is perfectly suited to the dynamic response of a steel-string guitar.

4. Signature Picks and Accessories: What Gear Completes Taylor’s Sound?

A guitar is only part of the equation! The right accessories are crucial for tone, comfort, and style.

  • Guitar Picks: Taylor is known to use custom guitar picks, often featuring album logos or her own image. During the Eras Tour, she’s been known to throw her picks into the crowd for lucky fans to catch. While her exact gauge is a closely guarded secret, many artists playing similar styles opt for a medium-gauge pick for a good balance of strumming flexibility and single-note attack. You can often find official Taylor Swift guitar picks on her merchandise store or fan resale sites.
  • Straps: A comfortable strap is a must. Taylor Guitars makes a special Taylor Swift Guitar Strap, which is a great pairing for her signature Baby Taylor.
  • Capos: Like any great singer-songwriter, she frequently uses a capo to change keys easily. She has often been seen using a Kyser Quick-Change Capo, a reliable and easy-to-use industry standard.
  • Practice Amps: For songwriting and quiet practice, Taylor has been seen using compact desktop amps like the Yamaha THR series. These little amps are fantastic for getting great tone at low volumes.

5. How Taylor’s Guitar Choices Influence Her Songwriting and Performance

Do you ever wonder if a different guitar can pull a different song out of you? Absolutely! Taylor herself has touched on this, and the team at Taylor Guitars noted that “every guitar has its own personality and it draws out different music, different songs, different ideas.”

  • The Intimate Songwriter: When you see Taylor with a smaller-bodied acoustic like the Taylor GS Mini or her Baby Taylor, you can almost feel the intimacy of the songwriting process. These guitars are like a personal journal, perfect for crafting the heartfelt lyrics and delicate melodies of songs like “All Too Well” or “cardigan.”
  • The Stadium Rocker: When she straps on a Gibson Les Paul, her entire stage persona shifts. The heavier guitar and its powerful sound command a different kind of performance—one filled with rock-and-roll swagger, power stances, and electrifying energy. It’s the perfect instrument for anthems like “State of Grace” or “The Story of Us.”
  • The Storyteller: A classic jumbo or dreadnought acoustic like the Gibson J-180 or Hummingbird is the ultimate storyteller’s tool. Its big, open sound is the perfect canvas for painting the vivid narratives found in her country and folk songs. It’s a guitar that invites you to gather ’round and listen to a story.

Her choice of guitar is never random; it’s a deliberate artistic decision that shapes the sound, the song, and the show.

6. Where to Find and Buy Guitars Like Taylor Swift’s: A Buyer’s Guide

Feeling inspired? We don’t blame you! Getting a guitar like Taylor’s is more achievable than you might think. Here at Guitar Brands™, our Guitar Buying Guide is packed with tips, but here’s a quick rundown for aspiring Swifties.

For the Acoustic Sound:

  • The Real Deal: If you want the authentic sound, a Taylor Grand Auditorium (like the 214ce or 314ce) or a Gibson J-45 or Hummingbird is the way to go.
  • Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
    • Taylor GS Mini or Baby Taylor: These offer genuine Taylor tone at a more accessible price point.
    • Epiphone: As Gibson’s sister brand, Epiphone makes excellent, authorized versions of the J-200, J-45, and Hummingbird that deliver amazing value.
    • Seagull or Yamaha: These brands are known for producing high-quality acoustic guitars that are fantastic for singer-songwriters.

For the Electric Vibe:

  • The Real Deal: A Gibson Les Paul Studio or Tribute will get you that classic humbucker roar.
  • Budget-Friendly Alternatives:
    • An Epiphone Les Paul Standard is an incredible guitar for the money and is the most popular choice for players wanting the Les Paul experience without the Gibson price tag.

No matter your budget, the key is to find a guitar that feels good in your hands and inspires you to write your own songs.

7. Celebrity Guitarists and Their Taylor Swift Guitar Inspirations

Taylor’s influence extends far beyond her fans; she has inspired a new generation of artists to pick up a guitar and write from the heart.

  • Olivia Rodrigo: Often seen with acoustic guitars, Rodrigo’s blend of intimate songwriting and pop-rock anthems shares a clear lineage with Taylor’s musical journey.
  • Phoebe Bridgers: While known for her unique Danelectro baritone, Bridgers’ introspective, lyric-focused songwriting on acoustic guitar resonates with the style Taylor championed in her folk-leaning eras.
  • Conan Gray: A self-professed Swiftie, Conan Gray often writes and performs on Taylor acoustic guitars, citing her as a primary inspiration for his narrative songwriting style.

Taylor Swift has made the guitar cool again for a mainstream audience. She proved that you don’t need to be a technical shredder to be an influential guitarist. What matters is the song, the story, and the passion you put into playing it. She has solidified the guitar’s place as the ultimate tool for personal expression in modern music.

Conclusion: Which Guitar Does Taylor Swift Use? The Final Verdict

So, which guitar does Taylor Swift use? The answer is delightfully multifaceted, just like her career. From the shimmering sparkle of her Swarovski-studded Taylor GS6 to the vintage warmth of the Gibson J-180, and the rock-solid power of the Gibson Les Paul, Taylor’s guitar collection is a vibrant tapestry reflecting every chapter of her musical journey.

Positives:
✅ Versatility: Taylor’s choice of guitars—from intimate travel-sized Taylors to full-bodied Gibsons—allows her to adapt her sound effortlessly across genres and venues.
âś… Signature Style: Her collaboration with Taylor Guitars has produced instruments that are both visually stunning and sonically rich, perfectly tailored to her songwriting needs.
✅ Stage Presence: Each guitar is a statement piece, whether it’s the dazzling crystal-covered J-180 or the fiery red Les Paul, enhancing her performance charisma.

Negatives:
❌ Availability: Some of her custom or discontinued models, like the J-180, can be difficult to find or expensive for the average player.
❌ Weight: Gibson electrics like the Les Paul can be heavy, which might not suit every player’s comfort level.

Our Recommendation: If you want to capture the essence of Taylor Swift’s sound without breaking the bank, start with a Taylor GS Mini or a Taylor 214ce for acoustic tones, and consider the Epiphone Les Paul Standard for electric vibes. These models offer the closest blend of playability, tone, and style that Taylor herself favors.

And remember, the guitar is just a tool—what really makes Taylor’s music magical is her storytelling and passion. So, pick up a guitar that inspires you, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll write the next big hit.

Ready to get your hands on a guitar like Taylor’s? Here are some top picks and resources to explore:

FAQ: Your Burning Questions About Taylor Swift’s Guitars Answered

What brand of guitar does Taylor Swift prefer for live performances?

Taylor Swift predominantly prefers Taylor Guitars for her live acoustic performances, especially models like the Taylor 614ce and the Taylor GS6. These guitars offer a perfect balance of projection, comfort, and tonal clarity that suits her dynamic stage presence. For electric sets, she often chooses Gibson Les Pauls, which provide the powerful, sustained tone needed for rock-infused performances.

Does Taylor Swift use acoustic or electric guitars predominantly?

Taylor Swift is primarily known for her steel-string acoustic guitars, which form the backbone of her songwriting and live shows. However, she incorporates electric guitars like the Gibson Les Paul during pop and rock-oriented performances, especially on tours supporting albums like Red and 1989. The acoustic guitar remains her signature instrument, though.

Which guitar model is Taylor Swift’s signature instrument?

Her signature guitar is the Taylor Swift Baby Taylor (TS-BT), a 3/4 size acoustic designed in collaboration with Taylor Guitars. It features a solid Sitka spruce top, sapele laminate back and sides, and a custom “Love, Love, Love” rosette. This model is aimed at inspiring young musicians and fans alike.

How has Taylor Swift’s choice of guitar evolved over the years?

Taylor’s guitar choices have evolved alongside her musical style. Starting with smaller, travel-sized Taylors during her country beginnings, she moved to larger-bodied acoustics like the Taylor 614ce and Gibson J-180 as her sound matured. The introduction of electric guitars like the Gibson Les Paul marked her pop-rock phase. Recently, she has embraced vintage and folk-inspired guitars to match the intimate vibe of albums like folklore.

What features make Taylor Swift’s favorite guitar unique?

Taylor’s favorite guitars often feature custom aesthetic appointments such as Swarovski crystal embellishments, unique inlays (like koi fish on the “Living Jewels” Taylor), and personalized finishes. Sonically, she favors guitars with balanced tone, excellent projection, and comfortable playability, such as the Grand Auditorium body shape and Taylor’s Expression System pickups.

Where can I buy a guitar similar to the one Taylor Swift uses?

You can find similar guitars at major music retailers like Sweetwater, Guitar Center, and Amazon. For Taylors, models like the Taylor GS Mini or Taylor 214ce offer a close approximation of her sound and feel. For Gibson-style guitars, the Epiphone J-200 or Epiphone Les Paul Standard are excellent budget-friendly alternatives.

How does Taylor Swift customize her guitars for different songs?

Taylor’s guitars are often customized with unique finishes, inlays, and electronics to suit the mood of specific tours or albums. For example, her crystal-covered GS6 was perfect for the Fearless era’s sparkle, while the flamed koa PS-24ce matches the warmth and intimacy of the Red and Eras tours. She also switches between different body shapes and pickups to achieve the desired tone for each song.

That wraps up our deep dive into Taylor Swift’s guitar world! Whether you’re a fan, a player, or just guitar-curious, we hope this guide has struck the right chord. Now, what are you waiting for? Time to find your own signature sound! 🎶

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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