Best Entry Level Electric Guitar (2024 Update)
For aspiring guitarists looking to buy their first electric guitar, choosing the right entry-level model is crucial to learning and development. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which budget-friendly electric is best for you. When shopping for the ideal beginner electric guitar, there are several key factors to consider.
First, examine your budget constraints. Entry-level electrics can range anywhere from $100 to $500. Setting a spending limit will help narrow your selections. Next, identify the guitar features most essential for a novice guitarist. A fixed bridge provides stable tuning, while a contoured body shape offers comfort during long practice sessions. The number of pickups and controls should be minimal to avoid confusion. Single coil pickups offer crisp, bright tone perfect for clean playing. Finally, test various guitar neck widths and shapes to find one that fits your fretting hand well. Narrower nut widths around 1.68 inches work best for smaller hands. The ideal neck shape balances comfort and playing agility.
Does an affordable entry-level electric guitar with basic features exist to match your budget and needs as a beginning player? Will its design allow you to learn on it comfortably for hours each day? By considering these key factors, you can select a first electric guitar to get you started and progressing on your musical journey.
10 Best Entry Level Electric Guitar
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The product is ideal for musicians seeking a high-quality, versatile electric guitar with a unique finish.
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This product is ideal for musicians who want an electric guitar with a unique design and high-quality sound.
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The product is ideal for beginners who are music enthusiasts and includes a guitar, amp, and accessories pack.
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This product is ideal for kids learning to play electric guitar and includes all necessary accessories like amp, picks, and tuner.
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Ideal for musicians seeking an affordable, quality electric guitar with a transparent finish and versatile sound.
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Ideal for intermediate and professional electric guitar players looking for a solid alder body, tremolo bridge, and bonus accessories.
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The product is ideal for beginners who want a complete guitar package with all necessary accessories and equipment.
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The electric guitar is ideal for professional musicians or enthusiasts seeking a high-quality and versatile instrument.
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This product is ideal for musicians and artists who want a versatile acoustic-electric guitar with a balanced sound.
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The product is ideal for playing electric guitar with a distinct and stunning cobalt blue finish.
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1. Ibanez S Series S521 Electric Guitar Ocean Fade Metallic
Introducing the S521, a sleek and stylish electric guitar that boasts an impressive range of features to satisfy the discerning musician. Crafted with a carefully selected mahogany body and a Wizard III maple neck, this guitar offers the perfect balance of comfort and tone.
The rosewood fretboard is adorned with jumbo frets and offset white dot inlays, making it easy for players to achieve precise finger placement and optimal playability. The fretboard's smooth surface also ensures that the guitar produces a rich and warm tone.
One of the key highlights of the S521 is its Mahogany body, which has been specifically chosen for S Series instruments. This wood is both lightweight and durable, providing players with the perfect combination of comfort and tone. The guitar's weight has been meticulously balanced to ensure that it feels just right in the player's hands.
The Wizard III neck is another standout feature of the S521. Renowned for pioneering the thin and fast neck design, this neck is designed to provide unparalleled comfort, responsiveness, and speed. It's no wonder why players around the world continue to rave about the Wizard III neck.
The S521 is also equipped with Quantum (H) neck and bridge pickups, which deliver a powerful and dynamic tone. The fixed bridge and Cosmo Black hardware add a touch of elegance to the overall design. Please note that the case is sold separately.
2. Jackson Js Series King V Js32, Amaranth Fingerboard, White With Black Bevels Electric Guitar
The Double-locking Tremolo Bridge in White with Black is an essential component for those seeking to enhance their electric guitar's performance. This high-quality bridge is built to last and is perfect for a variety of playing styles.
Crafted from premium poplar wood, the solidbody electric guitar is both durable and lightweight, making it easy to play for extended periods. The Amaranth fingerboard adds a touch of elegance to the guitar's overall appearance while also providing a smooth surface for easy playing.
The guitar is equipped with two humbucking pickups, which provide a rich and powerful sound that is perfect for a variety of music genres. The pickups are designed to reduce unwanted noise and interference, ensuring that your sound is always clean and clear.
The guitar features a maple neck that is both sturdy and comfortable to play. The neck is designed to provide excellent stability and sustain, allowing you to play with confidence and ease.
Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, the Double-locking Tremolo Bridge and solidbody electric guitar are sure to exceed your expectations. With its sleek design, premium materials, and superior craftsmanship, this guitar is a must-have for anyone who takes their music seriously.
3. Glarry Electric Guitar Starter Kit In White
Looking for the perfect gift for a beginner guitar player or for yourself? Look no further than this complete electric guitar package.
This set comes with everything you need to start playing immediately, including an electric guitar, amplifier, guitar bag, shoulder strap, plectrums, tremolo arm, connecting wire, and spanner tool. The guitar itself is made of high-quality basswood, which gives it a warm, rock sound that will last for years to come.
The included portable guitar bag makes it easy to take your guitar with you wherever you go, whether it's to class, your next performance, or just jamming with friends. And with standard string spacing and a smooth neck, this guitar is both comfortable to hold and easy to play.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this electric guitar package is sure to impress. It's the perfect solution for anyone looking to learn to play guitar or to expand their collection. So why wait? Order now and start playing today!
4. Lyxpro Pink Electric Guitar Starter Kit
Introducing the Boys & Girls Beginner Guitar Set – an ultimate starter package that includes all the parts and equipment required to rock straight out of the box. This set is perfect for novice and intermediate players aged 9 to 12 years old.
The package features a real 30-inch electric guitar with the same scale and high-quality materials as an adult's full-size instrument. It includes a premium rosewood fingerboard, Canadian maple neck, volume/tone knobs, and more. This guitar is perfect for children who are learning to play their first chords and songs.
Additionally, the package includes a 20-watt amplifier with a built-in speaker, headphone jack, and AUX input for playing along to music on a phone or MP3 player. The integrated controls include gain, bass, treble, volume, and grind to provide a personalized sound experience.
The digital tuner and accessories are also included in the package. The battery-operated mini clip-on tuner teaches kids to tune their guitar for best sound quality. The kit also comes with six strings, two picks, and a comfortable shoulder strap. The instruction book is also included to help children learn the basics of playing the guitar.
This all-in-one set is perfect for children who are interested in learning the guitar. It is a budding musician's dream, and it makes learning the guitar easy from home, school, or lessons. This set is a perfect present for Christmas, birthdays, and beyond.
5. Ibanez As53tf Electric Guitar, Trans Finish
This guitar is crafted with a Sapele top, back, and sides, which provides a rich and warm tone. The neck is made of Mahogany, ensuring durability and longevity. The fingerboard is bound with Rosewood, which adds a touch of elegance to the aesthetic.
Equipped with two ACH-ST open-coil humbuckers with ceramic magnets, this guitar produces a powerful and balanced sound. The pickup design allows for clarity and versatility, making it suitable for a variety of genres.
With a master volume/tone control, this guitar provides precise adjustments for a personalized sound. Whether you're looking for a mellow tone or a more aggressive sound, this guitar can accommodate your preferences.
6. Donner Seeker Electric Guitar – Pro Player's Choice
The DONNER Seeker series – DST-400 ST electric guitar is a vintage alder electric guitar that boasts of top-notch materials and craftsmanship. It features a clear lacquer finish that gives it a sleek and polished look while providing an excellent feeling and playing enjoyment. The guitar is made of alder wood, a classic wood known for its balanced sound that suits almost any genre.
The guitar is equipped with special Donner HSS pickups made in Korea that have more power output and distortion, allowing for a genre-defying sonic variety. The 5-way switching system creates seven modes-tones, while the push-pull tone knob on the second tone control for coil split yields a convincing single-coil effect. The coil split feature unlocks single-coil tones without any volume loss, resulting in classic guitar sounds with unbelievable clarity.
The solid body electric guitar features an upgraded vintage-style full block pop-in arm two-point tremolo bridge that provides superior tuning stability and ease of adjustment. The pop-in arms can be tightened to your preferred tension for superior tremolo action.
The guitar's AAA Canada maple neck is made in a satin finish, making it smooth and durable. The 22 frets marks on the neck and top of the fingerboard, as well as the D-stamped neck plate edges, provide hours of playing comfort. The vintage-style tuning machines and tuning peg machine heads add to the classic beauty of the guitar, from the string to the bridge. The guitar's vintage and elegant exterior design give it a unique and precious feel.
The DST-400 electric guitar kit is a professional special electronic guitar that draws from years of creative experience. It is a creation launched by Donner to accompany guitarists, working players, and advanced learners at any stage. The kit comes with a 10ft AWG24 oxygen-free copper center conductor guitar cable to connect the amplifier and an electric guitar bag made of 600D waterproof nylon oxford fabric. It is an ideal choice that allows you to have the ultimate enjoyment that comes from professional instruments.
7. Sunburst Starter Kit – Electric Guitar Bundle
Looking for the perfect guitar set for novice or intermediate players? Look no further than this Complete Guitar Set, which includes everything you need to rock straight out of the box.
This set features a 39 inch electric guitar with high-quality materials such as a premium rosewood fingerboard, Canadian maple neck, and S-S-S pickups. The guitar also includes volume and tone knobs, providing the perfect balance of control and sound quality.
The package also includes a 20 watt amplifier with a built-in speaker, headphone jack, and AUX input for playing along to music on your phone or MP3 player. The integrated controls include gain, bass, treble, volume, and grind, ensuring that you can customize your sound to your exact specifications.
To help you tune your guitar for the best sound quality, the set includes a battery-operated mini clip-on tuner and an instruction book. In addition, you'll receive six steel strings, two picks, and a comfortable shoulder strap to make your playing experience as enjoyable as possible.
This all-in-one set is the perfect choice for anyone looking to learn the guitar. From home to school to lessons, this set has everything you need to get started. It makes a great gift for Christmas, birthdays, or any other occasion where you want to give the gift of beautiful music.
8. Virgo Classic Electric Guitar With Roasted Maple
Introducing the MUSI VirgoClassic electric guitar, a perfect blend of classic and modern design. This guitar was created to retain the essence of a classic guitar, while incorporating user-friendly features for optimal performance in any studio or live setting. With its sharp and snappy sound, this guitar is perfect for any rock or blues enthusiast.
The guitar features a roasted maple neck with a caramel finish that provides exceptional stability and a stunning appearance. To ensure superior sound quality, the body is made of carefully selected mahogany wood, renowned for its sonic properties and lightweight construction.
In addition, the MUSI VirgoClassic electric guitar is equipped with hand-polished stainless steel frets that offer unmatched durability and a smooth playing surface for easy bends. The frets are also rounded and hand-dressed for an optimal playing experience.
The guitar has a unique Slim C compound neck profile and a 9.5” to 12” compound fingerboard radius, providing excellent playability for both chording and soloing. Adjusting the guitar neck is a breeze, thanks to the two-action wheel located at the bottom of the neck.
The MUSI Locking Special tuners are another standout feature of this guitar. They make string changes effortless and keep the instrument in tune, even during intense playing sessions. The guitar also boasts a bone nut, which is a harder natural material favored by many luthiers for its sustain and natural lubricating properties.
9. Taylor Academy Series Academy 10e Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Natural
The Taylor A10 Dreadnought 15/16th-Scale acoustic-electric guitar is a testament to the passion of Taylor Guitars in improving the playing experience for guitarists. The top wood is made of solid Sitka Spruce, while the back and sides are comprised of layered Sapele. The Academy Series Bracing pattern contributes to the guitar's sturdy build, with a matte 2.0 Varnish finish.
This right-handed guitar features a Taylor Standard Profile neck shape, with a nut width of 1.69 inches (43 mm). The fingerboard is crafted from genuine African Ebony, while the neck wood is made of Saplele. The instrument has 20 frets and a scale length of 24.87 inches, with a matte 2.0 Varnish finish.
Taylor Guitars is a passionate company that strives to expose more players to the joys of music-making, as evidenced by their Academy Series. The Academy 10e Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a part of this series, designed to support the development of entry-level guitar players. Taylor believes that beginners should have access to the best-playing guitar possible, and that's what they've provided with the Academy Series.
With its sturdy build and high-quality components, the Taylor A10 Dreadnought 15/16th-Scale acoustic-electric guitar is a great choice for both novice and experienced guitarists.
10. Esp Ltd Ec-256fm Electric Guitar, Cobalt Blue
Looking for an affordable guitar that packs a punch? Look no further than this popular option with many similarities to some of the most highly-regarded guitars in history.
Crafted with a comfortable Mahogany body and 3 pc. neck, this guitar is built to last. The roasted jatoba fingerboard and flamed maple top add a touch of elegance to its design.
But don't let its good looks fool you. This guitar also boasts covered passive pickups, set-neck construction, and 22XJ frets. These features work together to provide a high-quality sound that will impress even the most discerning musicians.
This guitar is versatile, too. It's at home on blues, classic rock, hard rock, progressive rock, fusion, and much more. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, this guitar is sure to please.
Best Entry Level Electric Guitar FAQs
Are there any specific types of music genres that an entry level electric guitar is best suited for?
When it comes to choosing an electric guitar for an entry-level player, there are many different music genres that can be played on it. However, some genres may be more suited for certain types of electric guitars than others. For example, if you’re into heavy metal or hard rock, you may want to consider an electric guitar that has humbucker pickups and a solid body, as this can give you the sharp, powerful sound that is characteristic of these genres.
On the other hand, if you are interested in blues or jazz, you may want to consider a semi-hollow body guitar. These types of guitars typically have a warmer, more mellow sound that is well-suited for these genres. Additionally, if you are interested in playing country or folk music, you may want to consider an electric guitar that has a single-coil pickup, as this can give you a bright, twangy sound that is characteristic of these genres.
Ultimately, the type of music you want to play will determine which type of electric guitar is best suited for you. It’s important to try out different types of guitars and experiment with different sounds to find the one that feels and sounds right for you.
Do I need to buy an amplifier along with an entry level electric guitar?
It depends on your specific needs and preferences. An entry-level electric guitar typically comes with a built-in preamp, which allows you to plug it directly into an amplifier or audio interface. However, the sound you get from the guitar's built-in preamp may not be as satisfactory as with a separate amplifier. If you plan on playing your guitar in a live setting or recording music, then investing in a separate amplifier may be a good idea.
Additionally, amplifiers come in various sizes and types, each offering a different sound and level of power. For practice sessions at home, a small practice amp may suffice, whereas for live performances or recording, a larger amp with more power may be necessary. It's important to do research and try out different amps to find the one that best suits your needs and budget.
Ultimately, whether or not you need to buy an amplifier along with your entry-level electric guitar depends on the sound quality you want and how you plan on using your guitar.
How many pickups should an entry level electric guitar have?
An entry level electric guitar usually comes with either one or two pickups. A pickup is a device that converts the vibrations of the guitar strings into electrical signals that can be amplified and heard through an amplifier.
A single pickup guitar is often considered simpler and more straightforward to play, making it a great choice for beginners who are still getting used to the instrument. On the other hand, a guitar with two pickups provides more tonal options, allowing players to experiment with different sounds and styles.
Ultimately, the number of pickups on an entry level electric guitar depends on the player's personal preference and the style of music they want to play. It's important to try out different guitars and pickups to see what works best for you and your playing style.
Should I go for a guitar with a whammy bar or without one?
Whether you should go for a guitar with a whammy bar or without one depends on your personal preferences and the type of music you want to play. A whammy bar, also known as a tremolo arm, allows you to alter the pitch of the strings by raising or lowering the bridge. This effect can be used to create vibrato, dive bombs, and other unique sounds.
If you are interested in playing genres such as rock, metal, or blues, a whammy bar may be a useful tool to have in your arsenal. However, if you primarily play acoustic or folk music, you may not need a whammy bar at all.
It's also important to consider the potential downsides of a whammy bar. It can be difficult to keep a guitar in tune when using the tremolo arm extensively, and it may require more maintenance than a guitar without a whammy bar.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to go for a guitar with a whammy bar or without one should be based on your playing style, musical preferences, and personal preferences. Be sure to try out a few different guitars with and without whammy bars before making your final decision.
What are the best entry level electric guitars for beginners?
For beginners, choosing the right electric guitar is crucial. It can make the learning process easier and more enjoyable. There are many entry-level electric guitars available that are suitable for beginners. Some of the best options include the Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster, Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012DLX, Epiphone Les Paul Special II, and Ibanez RG450DX.
The Squier by Fender Affinity Stratocaster is a great option for beginners, offering a classic design and versatile sound. The Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012DLX is another popular choice, known for its excellent playability and value for money. The Epiphone Les Paul Special II is a great option for those who want a classic rock sound, while the Ibanez RG450DX is perfect for those who prefer heavier styles of music.
When choosing an electric guitar, it's important to consider your personal preferences and the type of music you want to play. It's also a good idea to try out different guitars before making a purchase, if possible, to find the one that feels most comfortable and suits your playing style.
What brands make the best entry level electric guitars?
When it comes to buying an entry level electric guitar, there are several brands that offer great options for beginners. One of the most popular brands is Squier, which is a subsidiary of Fender. Squier guitars are known for their affordability and quality, making them a great choice for beginners. Another great option is Epiphone, which offers budget-friendly versions of popular Gibson models. Yamaha also offers great entry level electric guitars that have received positive reviews from beginners and experienced players alike. Additionally, Ibanez and Jackson offer affordable electric guitars that are perfect for beginners who want to play metal or rock music. Ultimately, the best brand for an entry level electric guitar will depend on personal preferences and budget. It is recommended to try out different brands and models before making a final decision.
What features should I look for in an entry level electric guitar?
When looking for an entry level electric guitar, there are a few key features that you should consider. First and foremost, you should look for a guitar that is comfortable to play, with a body shape and size that suits your preferences. You should also consider the type of wood used in the guitar's construction, as this can affect the tone and overall sound quality. In addition, look for a guitar with a good set of pickups, as these will have a significant impact on the guitar's sound. Single coil pickups are great for clean tones, while humbuckers are better for heavier distortion. Other features to consider include the guitar's bridge design, tuning stability, and overall build quality. It's also important to find a guitar that fits your budget, as there are many great options available at a range of price points. Ultimately, the best electric guitar for you will depend on your individual preferences and playing style, so be sure to try out a few different models before making a final decision.
What is the difference between a solid body and a semi-hollow body entry level electric guitar?
Solid body and semi-hollow body electric guitars are two popular types of electric guitars that differ in their construction and sound. A solid body electric guitar is made entirely of solid wood, which makes it more durable and capable of producing a brighter, more focused tone. Solid body guitars are commonly used in genres like rock, heavy metal, and punk.
On the other hand, a semi-hollow body guitar has a solid center block with hollow wings on either side. This design provides a warmer, fuller tone that is ideal for jazz, blues, and other mellow styles. Semi-hollow body guitars are also typically lighter and more resonant than solid body guitars, which can make them easier to play for longer periods.
In terms of entry-level options, both solid body and semi-hollow body guitars are available and can be found at similar price points. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and the style of music the player is interested in pursuing.
What is the ideal neck width for an entry level electric guitar?
The ideal neck width for an entry level electric guitar can vary based on personal preference and playing style. However, a general range for neck width on entry level electric guitars is between 1.65 inches (42mm) and 1.75 inches (44.5mm) at the nut. This allows for comfortable playing for beginners who may have smaller hands or are still developing their playing technique.
It's important to note that neck shape and profile can also play a role in the overall comfort and playability of an entry level electric guitar. A thinner neck profile, such as a "C" shape, can be easier for beginners to navigate. Ultimately, it's best to try out different neck widths and shapes in person to determine what feels most comfortable and suits your playing style.
Some popular entry level electric guitars with neck widths within this range include the Squier Affinity Stratocaster and the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE.
What is the price range for a good entry level electric guitar?
The price range for a good entry level electric guitar varies depending on the brand, model, and features. Generally, you can find a decent entry level electric guitar for around $150 to $300. However, if you are looking for a higher quality instrument with more advanced features, the price can go up to $500 or more. It's important to keep in mind that the price of an electric guitar is not always indicative of its quality, and you can often find great deals on used guitars or lesser-known brands. When shopping for an entry level electric guitar, it's important to consider factors such as playability, tone, and durability, as well as your own personal preferences and playing style. It's also a good idea to consult with a knowledgeable salesperson or experienced guitarist to help guide you in your decision.
