Student Flutes

Usually closed hole, C foot, silver plated

If made properly, a beginner flute can be easy to play even if fingers are not positioned perfectly. C foot actually allows for a more open sound, and you basically never even need B foot, but it has become a standard that more advanced flutes have it.

Price range for a decent one would be from $500 to $1000

Rental prices are usually between $25 and $35

Best to buy from a reputable dealer rather than eBay or Amazon

Which one to buy?

Major handmade professional brands offer introductory flutes, and if you can pay the price, they are usually reliable. If you are looking for a cheap flute, make sure there is some guarantee that it's well adjusted and tested, and the shop has flute technicians who can maintain it. There are rent-to-own flutes out there, and that's a low risk option.