Build & Design Quality
The first box to check with any acoustic is build quality. Both the FS800 and FG800 share a lot under the hood. You’re getting a solid Sitka spruce top on both, paired with nato (eastern mahogany) back and sides. Yamaha doesn’t cut corners on materials—even when they’re offering budgetfriendly models—so that base quality is consistent here.
The big difference is size. The FG800 sticks with a classic dreadnought body—a favorite for its volume and punch. Meanwhile, the FS800 has a concert body, which is slightly smaller and more balanced in tone. The FS is slimmer, making it easier to hold and play, especially for younger players or anyone who prefers a compact fit.
Both guitars come with a scalloped bracing pattern introduced in Yamaha’s 800 series, which enhances tone and projection without sacrificing durability. It’s a simple but powerful design tweak that gives both instruments rich bass and articulate highs.
Tone & Acoustics
Here’s where the guitars start to show individuality. The dreadnought FG800 is going to deliver more lowend warmth and sustain. This makes it ideal for strumming and full chord work. So if you’re backing vocals or leading a singalong, the FG will fill the room better.
On the flip side, the FS800 leans toward clarity and midrange precision. Its tighter, more focused tone appeals to fingerstyle players and those layering in melodic lines. It’s not about lacking volume, but the FS800 aims for note separation and nuance, not projection.
Again, both guitars benefit from Yamaha’s refined bracing design, giving even entry models surprising warmth and depth.
Playability
This category often gets overlooked, but playability can make or break your experience with a guitar. The necks on both models are nearly identical—narrow enough for quick chord changes but with enough mass to feel grounded. They both use a standard 25inch scale length, so there’s no awkward transition between them.
The concertbodied FS800 wins slightly in terms of comfort—mainly due to its smaller footprint and thinner waist. If you’re playing while seated or have a smaller frame, this can translate into way less fatigue during long practice sessions.
The FG800, being larger, is bulkier. It might feel more substantial or even unwieldy for beginners, but that’s part of the dreadnought charm. Bigger body equals bigger sound—but also bigger adjustment period.
Value for Money
The cool thing is this: you’re not going to lose either way. Both the FS800 and FG800 are priced aggressively under $250, and they punch way above their weight class. Yamaha has done a great job avoiding that “cheap guitar feel” in these models.
You’ll find consistent tuning stability, a clean fretboard, even fret edges, and hardware that holds up. These are beginnerfriendly instruments that also serve well into intermediate skill levels. Pros even recommend them as travel or backup guitars because of their reliability.
But if value is measured not just in dollars but in “fit,” then comparing yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs becomes more relevant. The FS800 offers comfort, clarity, and compact design. The FG800 offers lowend power, projection, and classic size. Same price bracket—different users.
Best Use Cases
Still on the fence? Here’s a direct pitch for each:
Yamaha FS800: Great for smaller players, fingerstyle enthusiasts, and those looking for balance and clarity. It’s also ideal for students rehearsing in confined, quieter spaces. Yamaha FG800: Ideal for strummers, singersongwriters, and anyone wanting tracks to resonate with fat lows and broad dynamics. Great for jam sessions, busking, and open mic nights.
Summary: Why the Specs Matter
At first glance, it’s easy to assume these two guitars must be nearly identical—same series, same manufacturer, nearly the same materials. But understanding the subtle differences between body size, sound profile, and application makes a huge impact.
In our breakdown of yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs, the takeaway is clear: these are both excellent guitars with slightly different missions. The FS800 gives you precision and comfort in a compact package. The FG800 offers fullness and tradition in a louder box.
The winner isn’t universal—it’s personal. Pick based on how you play, where you play, and what kind of sound you crave. Either way, you’re getting an acoustic guitar that delivers durability, tonal quality, and undeniable value.