Best Electric Guitars For Metal (2024 Update)
With heavy metal music comes the need for powerful electric guitars. When searching for the best electric guitar to melt faces with killer riffs and solos, there are several key factors to consider before pulling the trigger.
First and foremost is the type of pickups the guitar has. Humbuckers provide thick, heavy tones perfect for high-gain distortion. Active pickups boost output for even more brutal tones. The right pickups can make a world of difference in achieving that crushing metal sound.
The guitar’s construction is also pivotal. Solid body guitars offer increased sustain and resonance. Neck profile and fretboard radius contribute to fast, fluid playing. Components like bridges and tuning machines should be robust and roadworthy. Essentially, the guitar needs to be a metal machine built for punishment.
What’s your budget? How many frets do you prefer? What look inspires you? Do you crave an axe for recording or gigging? How will you dial in your tone? Asking yourself these questions will help narrow down the choices. With some research, you’ll find your perfect shredding machine.
Now get out there and melt some faces with the best electric guitar for metal that matches your needs and playing style. Let your fiercest riffs ring out loud and proud. There’s a beast of an ax waiting to be unleashed.
10 Best Electric Guitars For Metal
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Ideal for professional guitarists who desire precision, consistency, and durability with a stylish design and added protection from a case.
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2
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The product is ideal for those who want a high-quality electric guitar with a stylish design and great sound.
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3
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This product is ideal for electric guitar players who want a high-quality, signature baritone sound with a sleek, stylish design.
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4
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Ideal for beginner to intermediate guitar players looking for an affordable option with great sound and style.
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5
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The product is ideal for guitar enthusiasts who want to play like Kirk Hammett and need a high-quality electric guitar.
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6
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The product is ideal for professional or amateur guitarists in need of a durable and high-quality electric guitar.
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7
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Ideal for professional and amateur guitar players seeking a high-quality, versatile electric guitar at an affordable price point.
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8
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The product is ideal for heavy metal guitar playing with a sleek black satin design.
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9
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Ideal for electric guitar players looking for high-quality sound, sophisticated design and good value for their money.
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10
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This product is ideal for guitar players who want a high-quality electric guitar designed for precision and endurance.
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1. Esp Ltd Sh-7 Evertune Signature Series Brian "head" Welch Electric Guitar With Case, See Thru Purple
The guitar in question is designed for the renowned seven-string guitarist, Brian "Head" Welch, who is also a founding member of the nu-metal band, Korn. The instrument boasts a unique body style, featuring slightly thinned and streamlined horns that lend a sleek and menacing appearance.
One of the standout features of this guitar is the EverTune constant tension bridge system that ensures excellent tuning and intonation in nearly any conditions. This feature is particularly useful for musicians who demand absolute precision in their playing.
The guitar is equipped with innovative Fishman Fluence Modern Humbucker pickups, with Alnico in the neck and Ceramic in the bridge. These pickups deliver an incredible range of tones, and a push-pull tone pot allows players to access different voicings.
The guitar's neck-thru-body design, along with its flamed maple top in a See Thru Purple finish, provides a comfortable and contoured basswood body that is both visually striking and sonically rich. The instrument employs a three-piece maple neck with a 25.5" scale and an ebony fingerboard that is perfect for fast and precise playing. Additionally, the guitar features glow-in-the-dark side markers that make it easy to see in low-light conditions.
2. Ibanez Rg421 Electric Guitar Pearl Black Fade Metallic
The Wizard III 3-piece Maple neck is a top-of-the-line feature of this product, providing a sturdy and reliable foundation for any playing style. The Mahogany body adds a rich depth to the sound, giving it a warm and full-bodied tone that is sure to impress. The Rosewood fretboard with White dot inlay is not only visually stunning, but also adds a smooth and comfortable playing surface. With the addition of Jumbo frets, players can enjoy a more expressive playing experience, allowing for greater control and precision. The Fixed bridge provides excellent stability and sustain, making it perfect for both beginners and advanced players alike. Overall, this product is a top-performing option for anyone looking to take their playing to the next level.
3. Bb-600 Baritone Electric Guitar With Case
The Ben Burnley Signature guitar by ESP is a top-of-the-line model designed in collaboration with the founder of Breaking Benjamin himself. This guitar is a versatile masterpiece that boasts a number of impressive features. One of the key features of this guitar is the pair of high-quality magnetic pickups that consist of a Seymour Duncan '59 and JB set. The resulting sound is rich and well-balanced, making it perfect for a wide variety of playing styles.
In addition to the magnetic pickups, the Ben Burnley Signature guitar also comes equipped with a Graph Tech Ghost-Loaded Resomax NV bridge and tailpiece. This allows for an integrated piezo pickup, which offers even more sound options. With two output jacks, players can choose to route the signal from the standard pickups to one amp and the piezo pickup to another, providing unparalleled flexibility.
The Eclipse body style of the Ben Burnley Signature guitar is set-thru baritone, measuring 27" in scale. This means that the guitar can be downtuned without sacrificing ideal string tension, making it perfect for players who like to experiment with different tunings. The body is made from high-quality mahogany and is topped with quilted maple, giving it a stunning See Thru Black Sunburst Satin finish.
The guitar also features a thin U-shaped three-piece maple neck, providing a comfortable playing feel for players of all skill levels. This neck is designed to feel smooth and natural in the hand, making it easy to play for long periods of time without experiencing discomfort.
4. Esp Ltd Mh-203qm Electric Guitar, See Thru Blue
The ESP LTD M-200 is a stunning guitar that combines the best features of the Horizon and M Series. It boasts a sleek and aggressive design that will appeal to any musician looking for a high-performance instrument at an affordable price point.
The M-200 features a beautiful quilted maple top in See Thru Blue finish that gives it a unique and eye-catching appearance. The arched top of the ESP Horizon has been incorporated into the design to create a comfortable playing experience, while the aggressive styling elements of the M Series give it a bold and modern look.
One of the standout features of the M-200 is its versatile pickup configuration. The H/S/S setup allows for a wide range of tonal options, making it suitable for a variety of music genres. Whether you're playing heavy metal, country, or anything in between, this guitar has you covered.
The M-200 has been constructed with a bolt-on mahogany body and a maple neck fingerboard with 24 XJ frets. This combination of tonewoods provides a balanced and dynamic sound that is ideal for both rhythm and lead playing. The Floyd Rose tremolo system ensures that you can dive bomb and shred with confidence, knowing that your tuning will remain stable.
5. Esp Ltd Kh-602 Signature Series Kirk Hammett Electric Guitar With Case, Black
The ESP LTD KH-602 is a professional-grade guitar that offers nearly everything found in its higher-end cousin, the ESP KH-2, at a more affordable price point for musicians. Built with quality craftsmanship, this guitar features neck-thru-body construction, an alder body, and a 3 pc. extra-thin U-shaped maple neck for comfortable playing.
The pau ferro fingerboard boasts 24 extra-jumbo frets and Kirk Hammett's skull-and-bones inlays, providing a unique aesthetic while also allowing for smooth and precise playing. The Floyd Rose bridge and set of EMG Kirk Hammett Bone Breaker Signature pickups further enhance the guitar's sound and performance, making it a powerful instrument for professional recording and live performances.
Whether you're a seasoned musician or a serious player of intense music, the ESP LTD KH-602 is designed to meet your needs. Its superior construction and components ensure a powerful sound that can stand up to the most demanding performances. Overall, this guitar is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality instrument that offers exceptional value for its price.
6. Esp Ltd Ex-200 Electric Guitar, Black
The electric guitar being discussed boasts a set-neck construction, which allows for easy access to the highest frets. It is designed with ESP humbucker pickups and a TOM-style bridge and tailpiece, providing a dynamic and customizable sound. The guitar's body is made of mahogany and features an eye-catching, aggressive style. The neck is constructed with 3 pieces of maple and includes a roasted jatoba fingerboard and 22 XJ frets.
For those who are always on the go, the guitar can be safely transported in the ESP EX Form Fit hard case (sold separately).
7. Schecter Omen Extreme-6 Electric Guitar – Vintage Sunburst
Introducing the Solidbody Electric Guitar, a masterpiece crafted for musicians and guitar enthusiasts who crave top-notch sound quality and superior playability. With a sleek and stylish mahogany body, this guitar is built to last and will make a statement both on stage and in the studio.
Equipped with two humbucking pickups, the Solidbody Electric Guitar delivers a rich and dynamic sound that will captivate any audience. The vintage sunburst finish adds a touch of nostalgia to the overall aesthetic of the guitar, making it a true classic.
The rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth and comfortable playing experience, while the maple neck and top provide a stable and sturdy foundation that will withstand years of use. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, the Solidbody Electric Guitar is the perfect instrument for anyone who demands the best in sound quality and performance.
In addition to its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, the Solidbody Electric Guitar is also highly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of musical genres. From blues and jazz to rock and metal, this guitar can handle it all with ease.
8. Esp Ltd Ec-Black Metal Electric Guitar, Black Satin
This instrument boasts exceptional build quality that rivals ESP's LTD Deluxe "1000 Series". Its dark and edgy design features a sleek all-black finish, components, and hardware. The guitar is equipped with a single premium pickup and Macassar ebony fingerboards with no inlays. Additionally, the side markers glow in the dark, which is a unique and practical feature.
The guitar's body is based on the popular single-cutaway ESP Eclipse shape, accented with a black metal LTD logo on the headstock. The set-thru construction provides smooth access to the highest frets at 24.75” scale, making it a great choice for lead guitarists.
The standout feature of this instrument is the Seymour Duncan “Blackened” Black Winter pickup, which is mounted directly to the body. This pickup delivers a powerful, aggressive tone that's perfect for heavy metal and hard rock genres. The guitar also includes LTD locking tuners that help maintain tuning stability, even during intense playing sessions.
9. Esp Ltd Iron Cross James Hetfield Signature Electric Guitar With Case, Snow White
The ESP LTD JH-600 guitar is a tribute to James Hetfield, the renowned frontman of Metallica and a highly respected rhythm guitarist. This guitar is designed based on James' custom design, with set-neck construction to provide stability and smooth access to the highest frets.
The guitar features a mahogany body with a maple cap, which delivers a warm and rich tone. The 3-piece mahogany neck with ebony fingerboard and 22 XJ frets with an Iron Cross inlay offer excellent playability and a comfortable grip. The Iron Cross inlay adds a touch of style and uniqueness to the guitar.
The JH-600 is powered by James' own EMG JH SET active pickups, which are specifically designed to deliver the signature Metallica sound. These pickups offer high output and a wide range of tones, making it an ideal guitar for heavy metal and hard rock music.
The TonePros locking TOM bridge and tailpiece provide excellent tuning stability and sustain, ensuring that the guitar stays in tune even during intense performances. This feature is particularly useful for guitarists who like to use heavy strings or perform aggressive playing styles.
To ensure the safety of the guitar during transport, the JH-600 comes with an ESP EC form-fit guitar hard case. This case is designed to fit the guitar perfectly and protect it from scratches, bumps, and other types of damage.
10. Esp Ltd Gh-600 Signature Series Gary Holt Electric Guitar With Case, Black
This electric guitar is the ultimate choice for guitarists who want to unleash their most aggressive and powerful playing. Designed by Gary Holt of Slayer and Exodus, this guitar boasts top-of-the-line features that cater to even the most extreme playing styles.
Equipped with an EMG 89R neck pickup and an EMG 81 bridge pickup, this guitar delivers a powerful and versatile sound that can handle any genre. The volume knob pull switch allows for easy coil splitting, providing even more tonal options.
The set-thru neck design ensures exceptional stability and effortless access to the highest frets, allowing for smooth and unhindered playing. The glossy black finish is accentuated by striking red binding on the body, neck, and headstock, making it a standout piece in any collection.
This guitar also features a Floyd Rose tremolo and Grover tuners, ensuring optimal tuning stability and accuracy. The 3 pc. mahogany neck and body, based on the ESP Eclipse, provide a solid and durable foundation for the most intense playing.
Best Electric Guitars For Metal FAQs
Are certain brands of electric guitars better suited for metal than others?
Yes, certain brands of electric guitars are better suited for metal than others. This is because metal requires a specific type of sound and tone that not all electric guitars can produce. Generally, guitars with humbucking pickups are preferred for metal music as they produce a thicker and more powerful sound than single-coil pickups. Some popular brands of electric guitars that are known for their suitability for metal music include Jackson, ESP, Ibanez, and Schecter. These brands offer guitars with features such as extended range, high-output pickups, and fast necks that are favored by metal guitarists. Additionally, the quality of the materials used in the construction of the guitar also plays a significant role in its suitability for metal. Guitars made from high-quality woods such as mahogany, ebony, and maple are preferred for their durability and ability to produce the desired tone.
Can I play both rhythm and lead guitar on the same electric guitar for metal?
Yes, you can definitely play both rhythm and lead guitar on the same electric guitar for metal. In fact, many metal guitarists switch between the two roles within the same song or even within the same riff.
To play rhythm guitar in metal, you will typically use power chords or full chords to create the foundation of the song. This involves playing multiple strings at once to create a heavy, distorted sound. On the other hand, lead guitar in metal involves playing single notes and often incorporates techniques like shredding, tapping, and sweep picking.
Many metal guitarists use a combination of both techniques to create a dynamic and captivating sound. For example, you may play rhythm guitar during the verse of a song and then switch to lead guitar for the chorus or a guitar solo.
Ultimately, the key to playing both rhythm and lead guitar on the same electric guitar for metal is to practice both techniques separately and then integrate them together seamlessly within your playing.
Do I need a guitar with a tremolo system for playing metal?
While a guitar with a tremolo system, also known as a whammy bar, can add some unique tonal and stylistic options to your playing, it is not necessarily required for playing metal. Many metal guitarists do use tremolo systems to create dive bombs and other effects, but there are also plenty of metal guitarists who do not use tremolo systems at all. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use a tremolo system comes down to personal preference and the specific type of metal you are playing. Some subgenres of metal may rely heavily on tremolo techniques, while others may not use them at all. If you are new to playing guitar or are unsure if a tremolo system is right for you, it may be best to start with a standard fixed bridge guitar and explore different playing techniques before making a decision on whether or not to invest in a guitar with a tremolo system.
Should I choose a guitar with active or passive pickups for playing metal?
When it comes to playing metal music, the choice between active or passive pickups largely depends on personal preference and the style of metal you play. Active pickups tend to have a higher output and a more compressed sound, making them ideal for modern metal styles with heavy distortion and fast playing. They also have a built-in preamp, which can provide a boost to the signal and make it easier to achieve a consistent tone. However, active pickups require a battery to power the preamp, which can be a drawback if you forget to replace it or the battery dies during a performance.
On the other hand, passive pickups tend to have a more natural and dynamic sound, making them better suited for classic metal styles with more emphasis on tone and nuance. They don't require a battery, so you can rely on them more consistently. However, they may not provide as much output as active pickups, which can be a disadvantage if you need to cut through a dense mix or play with a lot of gain.
Ultimately, the choice between active and passive pickups for playing metal comes down to your personal preference and the specific sound you're looking for. It's a good idea to try out both types of pickups and see which one feels and sounds best to you.
Should I choose a solid body or semi-hollow body electric guitar for playing metal?
When it comes to choosing an electric guitar for playing metal, the decision between a solid body or semi-hollow body guitar can be a tough one. Both types of guitars have their own unique qualities that can impact your playing style and the sound you produce.
Solid body guitars are generally the go-to choice for metal players due to their ability to produce a heavy, aggressive tone with plenty of sustain. They also tend to have a faster attack and more defined sound compared to semi-hollow body guitars. Solid body guitars are also more durable and less susceptible to feedback, making them ideal for high-volume performances.
On the other hand, semi-hollow body guitars have a warmer, more rounded tone that can add depth and complexity to your sound. They also tend to be more versatile, allowing you to play a wider range of styles beyond just metal. However, they may be more prone to feedback and can be less durable than solid body guitars.
Ultimately, the choice between a solid body or semi-hollow body guitar for playing metal comes down to personal preference and playing style. If you prioritize a heavy, aggressive tone and durability, a solid body guitar may be the better choice. If you value versatility and a warmer, more nuanced tone, a semi-hollow body guitar may be the way to go.
What are the top electric guitars for playing metal music?
When it comes to playing metal music, electric guitars that can handle high-gain and fast playing are essential. Here are some of the top electric guitars for playing metal music:
1. Jackson Soloist: This guitar is a popular choice for metal guitarists due to its fast and comfortable neck, high-output pickups and sleek design.
2. Ibanez RG Series: Known for their thin and fast necks, these guitars are perfect for shredding and playing fast-paced metal riffs.
3. Gibson Les Paul: This classic guitar is a versatile option for playing metal music, offering a thick and heavy sound that can handle distortion and high-gain.
4. ESP LTD EC-1000: This guitar features active pickups which provide a high-output, perfect for playing metal music. It also has a comfortable neck and sleek design.
5. Schecter Hellraiser: This guitar is designed for metal players, featuring EMG pickups and a mahogany body for a thick and heavy sound.
Ultimately, the best electric guitar for playing metal music depends on personal preference and playing style. It’s important to consider factors such as the guitar’s pickups, neck shape and overall sound when making a purchase.
What features should I look for in an electric guitar for metal?
When it comes to playing metal on an electric guitar, there are a few key features to consider. Firstly, you'll want to look for a guitar with a solid body, such as a mahogany or alder, as this will provide a good foundation for the heavy distortion and low tunings commonly used in metal. You'll also want to consider the type of pickups on the guitar. Humbuckers are generally preferred for metal as they provide a thicker, fuller sound with less noise and interference. Additionally, a guitar with a fast and comfortable neck will allow you to play the fast and intricate riffs often found in metal music with ease. Look for a neck with a flat radius and a slim profile. Finally, consider the hardware on the guitar. A locking tremolo system or fixed bridge will help keep the guitar in tune even with heavy use of the whammy bar. Overall, make sure to choose a guitar that feels comfortable and suits your playing style, as this will help you achieve the best possible tone and performance.
What is the best electric guitar for playing extreme metal genres like death metal and black metal?
When it comes to playing extreme metal genres such as death and black metal, it's important to have an electric guitar that can handle the heavy, aggressive playing style and provide the necessary tonal characteristics. One of the most popular choices for this type of music is the "Superstrat" style guitar, which typically features a lightweight body, thin neck, and high-output pickups.
Some popular options for electric guitars suited for playing extreme metal are the Ibanez RG series, the Jackson Soloist or Rhoads models, and the ESP/LTD M and MH series. These guitars typically have a fast and comfortable neck, with humbucking pickups that can deliver the aggressive and high-gain tones needed for extreme metal.
Ultimately, the best electric guitar for playing extreme metal will depend on personal preference and playing style. It's important to try out different guitars and find one that feels comfortable and sounds great for the specific type of extreme metal you want to play.
What is the best scale length for an electric guitar for playing metal?
When it comes to playing metal on an electric guitar, the scale length can make a big difference in terms of tone and playability. Generally speaking, a longer scale length is better suited for playing metal due to its tighter and more focused sound. The most common scale length for electric guitars is 25.5 inches, which is used by many popular metal guitarists. However, some metal players prefer even longer scale lengths, such as 26.5 inches or even 27 inches, for even more tension and clarity in their playing.
That being said, it's important to note that scale length is not the only factor that affects a guitar's tone and playability. Other factors such as pickups, tuning, and string gauge can also play a significant role. Ultimately, the best scale length for playing metal on an electric guitar will depend on personal preference and playing style, so it's important to experiment and find what works best for you.
What is the best type of neck for playing metal on an electric guitar?
When it comes to playing metal on an electric guitar, the type of neck that is best suited for the task depends on personal preference and playing style. However, many metal guitarists prefer a neck with a flat radius and thin profile for fast and precise playing. A neck with a flat radius allows for lower action, which can make it easier to play fast, intricate riffs and solos. Similarly, a thin profile neck can be more comfortable for playing for extended periods of time. Some guitarists also prefer a neck with a satin or unfinished feel, as it can reduce hand fatigue and allow for faster movement along the fretboard. Ultimately, the best neck for playing metal on an electric guitar is one that feels comfortable and allows for the player to achieve their desired tone and playing style.
