The 10 BEST Apps to Learn Guitar in 2025

By Riffhard Staff

If you’re looking to up your guitar game in 2025, there’s no shortage of apps to help you do just that. Whether you’re a metalhead itching to nail those blistering solos or a newbie trying to strum your first chord, technology is here to lend a hand. With so many options, it can be hard to know where to start. Don’t worry—I’ve rounded up the ten best apps for learning guitar this year. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of each app and what makes it a cut above the rest.

Fender Play: The Classic Choice

Fender Play has been a go-to for many aspiring guitarists. It offers a structured curriculum that takes you from zero to hero in a variety of styles, including metal. The app’s user-friendly interface and bite-sized lessons make it easy to jump in, whether you’ve got five minutes or an hour to spare. Plus, the emphasis on learning popular songs keeps things engaging.

Fender Play isn’t just for beginners. Intermediate players will find plenty of nuggets to chew on, too. The app includes lessons on more advanced techniques like hammer-ons, pull-offs, and even some basic shredding. If you’re a fan of structure and need that extra push, Fender Play might be your jam. You can even track your progress, which feels oddly satisfying—kind of like leveling up in a video game.

While Fender Play covers a wide range of styles, their metal offerings are worth mentioning. While it doesn’t get as intricate as some other apps, it provides a solid foundation for those starting their metal journey. Think of it as your gateway into the heavier side of guitar playing. On the downside, some might find the lack of focus on specialized techniques like sweep picking a bit limiting. But for most, it’s a great place to start.

Yousician: Your Personal Guitar Coach

If gamification is your thing, Yousician might be right up your alley. This app turns learning into a game, complete with levels, challenges, and leaderboards. It’s like Guitar Hero, but with a real guitar in your hands. The interactive aspect makes practice sessions fly by.

What sets Yousician apart is its ability to listen to your playing and provide real-time feedback. It’s like having a personal coach right in your pocket. The app covers a broad range of genres, including metal, and offers lessons for both electric and acoustic guitar. It’s perfect for those who thrive on immediate feedback and want to see tangible progress.

Yousician also offers a range of exercises designed to improve your technique. You can work on your picking speed, strumming patterns, and even delve into some rhythm guitar exercises that are crucial for metal. However, if you’re looking for in-depth tutorials on advanced metal techniques, you might find it lacking. Yet, for those early in their journey, it provides a fun and engaging way to learn.

ArtistWorks: Learn from the Best

ArtistWorks takes a unique approach by offering lessons taught by world-renowned guitarists. Imagine learning a riff directly from your favorite artist—pretty cool, right? This app offers a wide range of genres and styles, including a solid selection of metal tutorials.

One of the standout features of ArtistWorks is its video exchange platform. You can submit videos of your playing and get personalized feedback from your instructor. It’s like having a virtual masterclass at your fingertips. The quality of instruction is top-notch, and the feedback is tailored to your specific needs, making it invaluable for players seeking to refine their technique.

While ArtistWorks might not have the same gamified experience as some of the other apps, it makes up for it with depth and quality. The focus here is on learning from the best, which makes it perfect for those who are serious about their craft. It might not be the cheapest option out there, but the personalized feedback alone is worth the investment for many.

Guitar Tricks: Variety is the Spice of Life

Guitar Tricks has been around for a while, and it’s easy to see why it’s a favorite among guitarists. With over 11,000 lessons, there’s something for everyone, whether you’re into blues, rock, or metal. The app offers a structured learning path that helps you develop your skills progressively.

One of the app’s highlights is its song library. You can learn to play a wide variety of songs, which is a great way to keep practice sessions interesting. The lessons are easy to follow, with video demonstrations and step-by-step instructions. It’s like having a personal tutor who never gets tired of your questions.

Metal enthusiasts will appreciate the app’s dedicated metal section. While it might not be as specialized as some other platforms, it offers a solid foundation in the genre. You’ll find lessons on power chords, palm muting, and even some basic metal solos. It’s a great starting point for those looking to dip their toes into the metal world.

Ultimate Guitar: More Than Just Tabs

Many guitarists know Ultimate Guitar for its extensive tab library. But did you know it also offers a range of lessons? The app has evolved over the years to include a variety of learning resources, making it a one-stop-shop for guitarists of all levels.

The app’s standout feature is its interactive tabs. You can slow down the tempo, loop sections, and even see a visual representation of finger placement on the fretboard. It’s an excellent tool for breaking down complex riffs and solos, especially in genres like metal where precision is key.

While Ultimate Guitar might not have the structured lessons of some other apps, it shines in its versatility. You can learn songs, explore new techniques, and even take part in the app’s community challenges. It’s perfect for self-directed learners who want to take control of their learning journey.

Riffhard: The Metalhead’s Choice

For those who live and breathe metal, Riffhard is the ultimate destination. Unlike other platforms, Riffhard focuses exclusively on modern metal genres like metalcore, deathcore, and djent. It’s taught by some of the best in the business, including Dean Lamb of Archspire and Aaron Marshall of Intervals.

What sets Riffhard apart is its emphasis on rhythm guitar techniques. While many other platforms focus on lead guitar, Riffhard dives deep into the intricacies of rhythm playing. The lessons cover everything from picking and riffing to songwriting and more. Plus, with over 150 video lessons, there’s plenty to explore.

Riffhard’s interactive player allows you to adjust the tempo of video lessons, making it easier to follow along at your own pace. You’ll also find downloadable tabs and Guitar Pro files for all the lessons. If you’re serious about mastering metal guitar, Riffhard is a game-changer. And with the Shredule—a bi-weekly lesson plan curated from the lesson library—you’ll never run out of material to work on.

JustinGuitar: The Friendly Tutor

JustinGuitar is like having a mate who’s a guitar whiz. It’s approachable and easy to navigate, making it a favorite among beginners. The app offers a mix of structured lessons and song tutorials, covering everything from basic chords to soloing.

What makes JustinGuitar stand out is its focus on building solid foundations. The lessons are designed to help you develop good habits from the get-go. It’s perfect for those who are just starting out and want to make sure they’re on the right track.

The app also includes a variety of practice routines and exercises, making it easier to incorporate what you’ve learned into your playing. While it might not have the advanced metal techniques some players are looking for, it’s a fantastic resource for those new to the guitar. Plus, the community is incredibly supportive, offering a great place to connect with other learners.

TrueFire: Expand Your Horizons

TrueFire offers a vast library of lessons across multiple genres, including metal. It’s known for its high-quality video lessons and expert instructors. The app’s interactive features make it easy to follow along with lessons and practice at your own pace.

One of the app’s strengths is its focus on creativity. You’ll find lessons that encourage you to experiment and develop your own style. It’s perfect for those who want to break out of the mold and try something new.

TrueFire also offers a range of practice tools, including a metronome and backing tracks. These tools are invaluable for honing your timing and improvisation skills. While it might not be as metal-focused as Riffhard, it offers a wealth of resources for those looking to broaden their musical horizons.

JamPlay: Live Lessons and More

JamPlay is a robust platform offering live lessons, video courses, and a community forum. It’s perfect for those who thrive on interaction and want to learn from real-time feedback. The app covers a wide range of styles, including metal, and offers lessons for both electric and acoustic guitar.

One of JamPlay’s standout features is its live lessons. You can join in on live sessions and interact with instructors and other students. It’s a great way to get instant feedback and connect with fellow guitarists.

The app also offers a variety of courses designed to take you from beginner to advanced. You’ll find lessons on everything from basic chords to advanced soloing techniques. While it might not have the same depth of metal content as Riffhard, it’s a fantastic resource for those looking to expand their skills in various genres.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it—ten of the best apps to learn guitar in 2025. Each offers something unique, whether it’s real-time feedback, a focus on metal, or lessons from world-renowned guitarists. Whatever your style or skill level, there’s an app out there for you. And when it comes to mastering the art of metal guitar, Riffhard stands out with its specialized focus and top-notch instructors. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, these apps have you covered.

Other posts you might like