Body Shape and Size
The most obvious difference? Shape.
The Yamaha FG800 features a traditional dreadnought body. That means it’s bigger, louder, and delivers more lowend—ideal for strumming and open chords. If you like a fullbodied sound that can fill a room, the FG800’s your guy.
The FS800, on the other hand, has a concertsize body. It’s smaller, lighter, and more comfortable for smaller frames or people who value mobility. It leans more into midrange clarity and is great for fingerpicking and light strumming.
So it’s simple: go FG800 if you want booming volume, and FS800 if you want comfort and precision.
Tonewood and Construction
Here’s where things start to mirror.
Both models use a solid Sitka spruce top—hard to find at this price. It adds crisp highs and dynamic response. For the back and sides, Yamaha uses nato, a hardwood similar to mahogany. You’re getting richness without the cost of solid mahogany.
The neck material is also nato, with a satin finish for easy, fast movement. Both guitars have rosewood fingerboards and bridges. Sturdy, responsive, and reliable.
Differences? None in wood. Yamaha kept it consistent—so it’s shape and size that do the heavy lifting on tone variation.
Sound Comparison
Let’s talk tone: the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs may seem close on paper, but to the ear, they serve different flavors.
FG800: Bigger body = louder sound. The lows are stronger and the volume can push through a mix or hold its own in a jam. This is more suited for rhythm guitar players or singersongwriters who want warmth and volume.
FS800: Smaller body = more detail. You’ll notice clearer highs and a more balanced midrange. Ideal for fingerstyle players or those recording in small rooms. Think intimate clarity over campfire roar.
Neck Width and Playability
Both guitars have a 1.69inch (43mm) nut width, which is pretty standard. The neck profile is slim but not too skinny. It’s made for comfort, whether you’re a total newbie or a casual intermediate.
The FS800’s smaller body might feel easier to cradle, especially for kids or folks who don’t want to wrestle a dreadnought.
Bottom line: both play well straight from the box. Yamaha’s factory setup is solid, with decent action and smooth frets.
Aesthetics
Honestly, there’s nothing flashy going on—and that’s a good thing.
Both guitars rock a natural finish with minimal decoration. You get black binding and a simple blackandwhite rosette. No fancy inlays, no glossy flamboyance. It’s all intentional—Yamaha wants you to focus on tone and function over bling.
That said, the clean design fits any situation: bedroom practice, onstage playing, or hanging on the wall.
Price and Value
Here’s a win: both guitars are usually in the same ballpark—roughly $200–$250 depending on dealers and any bundles. Given the solid top and Yamaha reliability, that’s a strong return on a low investment.
You’re getting more than a beginner guitar. These can carry you through years of use without needing “the next level” upgrade unless you’re chasing boutique builds or pickups.
Pros and Cons At a Glance
Yamaha FG800 Pros:
Bigger sound thanks to dreadnought body Great projection and bass Ideal for strummers and singersongwriters
Yamaha FG800 Cons:
Less comfortable for smaller players Can sound boomy in smaller rooms
Yamaha FS800 Pros:
Comfortable for all hand sizes Balanced tone with great midrange clarity Ideal for fingerpicking and quiet playing
Yamaha FS800 Cons:
Less projection for large spaces Slightly less bass response
Final Verdict
Choosing between these two isn’t about which is better—it’s about what fits you.
If you’re looking to strum and sing out loud, go FG800. If you’re after balance and comfort, FS800 is the smarter play.
The yin and yang in the yamaha fs800 vs yamaha fg800 acoustic guitar specs game really boils down to body size and sound preference. Same price, similar materials, different experiences.
Remember this: you’re not making a bad choice here.
Just an informed one.