Electric guitar...

There is a distinct difference between an electric guitar and an acoustic. I fully advocate learning on an acoustic as well, you will be playing chord shapes, and doing runs and breaks within those shapes. With an electric, you will probably be playing mostly bar chords, which is ok, but lead work is in the runs and chord shape, and lots of acoustic lead work will transfer right over to an electric.
I actually went to a music shop today that's close by my house and inform them of my cheap Amazon guitar that is on its way and I'll need to take it there for them to put it into tune for me.
I did pick up a guitar there and like the song jukebox hero it felt good in my hand LOL... I do like the idea of the thinner strings being easier to hold.. and while I hear what you're saying I really don't know anything about guitars or what you're saying.. but I reckon that will be the fun of it the learning...