If you’re looking to master the guitar from the comfort of your own home, the choices for online learning platforms are almost overwhelming. Two of the most popular options on the market are Guitar Tricks and Jamorama. But which one aligns with your goals, learning style, and budget? This detailed comparison breaks down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your musical future.
Whether you’re a beginner hoping to strum your first chord or someone looking to refine your skills, this guide will help you decide between these two platforms by comparing their standout features, user experience, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which program suits you best.
What is Guitar Tricks?
Guitar Tricks is a comprehensive online learning platform for guitarists of all skill levels. Established in 1998, it’s one of the most trusted and established resources in the online guitar learning community.
1. What Makes Guitar Tricks Stand Out?
Guitar Tricks has a reputation for being highly effective for beginners. Its intuitive design ensures that even those with zero experience can feel confident with their guitar from the first lesson. Its standout feature? The Core Learning System, a guided program designed to take absolute beginners step by step through the essentials.
It’s packed with lessons spanning a variety of genres—from rock and blues to pop and country—so you’re not stuck learning one style. Famous for offering structured, easy-to-follow lessons, Guitar Tricks makes learning straightforward without being overwhelming.
2. What Are the Features of Guitar Tricks?
- Core Learning System: A step-by-step method for absolute beginners.
- Genre-Specific Lessons: Options for rock, blues, country, jazz, metal, and more.
- Massive Song Library: Over 1,000 licensed songs from artists like The Beatles, Nirvana, and Ed Sheeran.
- Interactive Tools: Chord charts, scale finders, and jam tracks to practice alongside lessons.
- Professional Teachers: All teachers are vetted professionals who combine teaching expertise with performance experience.
3. What Are the Pros and Cons of Guitar Tricks?
Pros:
- Perfect for beginners with its structured approach.
- A vast library of famous songs to learn.
- High-quality video production ensures clear visuals and audio.
- Lessons from a variety of instructors, giving you diverse teaching styles.
Cons:
- Less engaging for advanced players compared to total beginners.
- Slightly higher price tag compared to some competitors.
What is Jamorama?
Jamorama is another great platform for learning guitar, but it caters primarily to beginners and hobbyists who want a more relaxed, self-paced approach. It first gained popularity for its affordability and simplicity, especially for casual learners.
1. What Makes Jamorama Stand Out?
Jamorama is all about making learning fun and pressure-free. Where Guitar Tricks offers structure, Jamorama focuses on flexibility. Its standout feature is its focus on play-based learning—using exercises, games, and play-along tracks to make practice enjoyable rather than tedious.
If you want to learn at your own pace without committing to a formal structure, this platform might appeal to you.
2. What Are the Features of Jamorama?
- Play-Based Learning: Games and exercises to keep learning lighthearted and fun.
- Downloadable Lessons: Access lessons offline, making it convenient for those without consistent internet access.
- Play-Along Tracks: Jam with custom backing tracks to simulate playing with a live band.
- Bonus Resources: Includes lessons on music theory, ear training, and rhythm.
- Community Access: Engage with a community of like-minded learners.
3. What Are the Pros and Cons of Jamorama?
Pros:
- Affordable for budget-conscious learners.
- Fun, game-like approach to learning.
- Great for beginners looking for a less intense structure.
- Offline access to lessons.
Cons:
- Limited advanced content for intermediate and experienced players.
- Does not have a comprehensive song library like Guitar Tricks.
- Lacks the professional polish and production quality of competitors.
Comparison of Guitar Tricks and Jamorama
Now that we’ve covered the basics of both platforms, how do they compare across key factors?
1. Price
Jamorama is the more cost-effective option, with one-time payment plans as low as $70 for lifetime access. Guitar Tricks, on the other hand, charges $19.95 per month or $179.99 annually. While Guitar Tricks is pricier, the breadth and depth of its content justify the cost for serious learners.
Verdict: Choose Jamorama if budget is your main concern. Opt for Guitar Tricks if you want more value from a larger content library.
2. Lesson Quality
Guitar Tricks excels with high-quality video lessons, professional instructors, and structured learning paths. Jamorama’s lessons are more casual and engaging but lack the polished professionalism that Guitar Tricks offers.
Verdict: Guitar Tricks wins for depth and structured learning.
3. User Interface
Guitar Tricks has an intuitive, beginner-friendly website and mobile app, but some users have noted its interface could feel slightly dated. Jamorama, while simple and easy to use, also feels minimal compared to the robust interface of Guitar Tricks.
Verdict: Guitar Tricks takes this one with its comprehensive and user-friendly design.
4. Additional Features
Guitar Tricks offers interactive tools like chord charts, scale finders, and a massive song library, which significantly enhance the learning experience. On the other hand, Jamorama’s play-based learning and downloadable lessons cater better to hobbyists or those wanting more laid-back practice.
Verdict: Guitar Tricks is ideal for students seeking diverse tools and resources, while Jamorama suits casual learners.
Which One Should You Choose?
When deciding between these two platforms, it’s important to consider your specific needs, goals, and preferences.
1. What Are Your Goals as a Guitar Learner?
Are you looking to seriously commit to learning guitar with the guidance of professional instructors? Or are you a hobbyist who just wants to have fun and improve casually? If you’re aiming for structured progress, Guitar Tricks is ideal. If you want something fun and flexible, go with Jamorama.
2. What Is Your Budget?
Jamorama is notably more affordable, making it the better option for those on a tight budget. Guitar Tricks, although more expensive, packs in features and resources that justify its cost.
3. Which Program Aligns Better With Your Learning Style?
If you thrive on structure and enjoy tracking your progress through a step-by-step plan, Guitar Tricks is the clear winner. If you prefer relaxed, gamified learning at your own pace, Jamorama might be the better fit.
4. Final Verdict
For most beginners serious about learning guitar, Guitar Tricks is the better investment. Its Core Learning System, vast song library, and high-quality lessons make it a top choice for anyone ready to take the leap into mastering the guitar. However, if you’re looking for a fun, casual, and budget-friendly platform, Jamorama is a great alternative.
Ultimately, the best choice is the one that aligns most closely with your goals and budget. Happy strumming!
