playing electric guitar

Best Beginner Electric Guitars For Musicians in 2023

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  • Beginner electric guitars to suit all budgets
  • Models to match your music style
  • Styles that will make you feel like a pro

If you’re a beginner who wants to try the electric guitar for the first time, it’s unlikely you’ll want, or even have the funds, to spend thousands on a new musical instrument – and we certainly wouldn’t recommend it!

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to break the bank to get a well-made musical instrument with clarity and depth. There are a great number of electric guitars for beginners out there that can make your first time playing this instrument a dream. The question now is finding the right beginner guitar for you.

WHAT ARE THE BEST BEGINNER ELECTRIC GUITARS?

red electric guitar

When it comes to electric guitars for beginners, our top pick is the Epiphone Les Paul Studio. Les Paul guitars have dominated the music industry for decades, and it’s not hard to see why. This model may be a beginner guitar, but it’ll make you feel like a pro, no matter where you are in your guitar journey.

Our premium option for beginners is the Squier Affinity Strat. This beginner guitar bundle comes with everything you need to get started, including a gig bag, picks, a strap, and more.

You also get an amplifier for ultimate sound control. Our best option for players on a budget is the Epiphone SG Special. This amazing guitar is simple, looks stylish, sounds great, and comes in at just under $200.

  1. Yamaha Pacifica 112V
  2. Epiphone Les Paul Studio
  3. Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster
  4. Squier Bullet Mustang
  5. Epiphone SG Standard
  6. Gretsch G2420 Streamliner
  7. Ibanez Artcore AS53
  8. Epiphone SG-Special
  9. Gretsch G5425
  10. Squier Affinity Strat

1. Yamaha Pacifica 112V

It also features a vintage tremolo bridge with block saddles, which helps you to stay in tune no matter what you’re playing. Strum in style with the knowledge that whatever you play will sound great.

BEST ALL-ROUNDER

Yamaha Pacifica 112V

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V provides everything you need to make the music you want to make.

Why We Love It:
  • Limitless when it comes to genre
  • Smooth and responsive
  • Cool, vintage design

FEATURES

  • Sleek, C-shaped maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for easy playability
  • A trio of versatile pickups for a range of tones
  • Pull/push tone control to shape your tone
  • A lightweight body perfect for emerging players to handle
  • A vintage tremolo bridge with block saddles

REVIEW

Tone and sound are limitless when it comes to this instrument – the trio of versatile pickups will see to that. Whether you’re looking for those clean highs or deep, bone-shaking low ends, this electric guitar can perform all. Experiment with genre and find a style that suits you.

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is designed with ease of use in mind. Budding electric guitar players have nothing to fear from its lightweight alder body. With a sleek, C-shaped maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard, this guitar is responsive and smooth, making both chording and lead-playing effortless.

VERDICT

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V lives up to the Yamaha name by offering amazing sound and perfect playability, no matter the genre you want to explore. Banish the fear of fatigue with every strum.

THIS ELECTRIC GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

We recommend the Yamaha for any beginner electric guitarist who wants to experiment with genre and sound.

2. Epiphone Les Paul Studio

You can’t go wrong with the Epiphone Les Paul Studio.

ICONIC DESIGN

Epiphone Les Paul Studio

This electric guitar may be a beginner guitar, but it’ll certainly make you feel like a pro, no matter your playing level.

Why We Love It:
  • Classic Les Paul style
  • Plays like a beginner guitar – feels like a pro
  • Deep, rich tone

FEATURES

  • Mahogany neck and body for rich depth
  • Tune-o-matic bridge and high-quality guitar tuners
  • Alnico Classic humbuckers for a range of sound
  • Pau ferro fingerboard with trapezoid inlays
  • SlimTaper D neck profile

REVIEW

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio has everything you’d expect in a beginner electric guitar, and yet it feels like a professional model. Its lightweight mahogany body, neck, and maple top are reminiscent of more expensive models used by industry pros.

The mahogany woods ensure you’ll experience a vibrant tone that’s clear and full, no matter the chords you’re strumming. The maple veneer top is not only stylish – it ensures that the treble will come through clearly. The SlimTaper D neck profile also fits comfortably in the palm of your hand so that any beginner can play with ease.

This model features Alnico Classic humbuckers to give you a range of sound. Experiment with all different types of genres, from velvety smooth jazz to cool, heart-pounding rock. There are also push/pull volume and tone pots that offer different tonal textures, so you can discover the sound that’s perfect for you. If you, like many green-fingered beginners, are discovering your style, this is a fantastic guitar to help you find it.

VERDICT

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is the perfect model for any budding guitarist, and it shouldn’t come as a surprise as to why. As a trusted brand, Les Paul has been making professional-level guitars for years as a trusted brand.

THIS ELECTRIC GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

This is the best beginner’s electric guitar for those who want professional-level quality. Get a guitar that’ll last through the years.

3. Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster

Looking for a beginner electric guitar with a vintage feel? The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster may be for you. With a great look, a great feel, and an even greater sound, this is one of the best beginner electric guitars for a beginner who wants to play in style.

CLASSIC VIBE

Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster

Don’t let the budget price of this guitar put you off. The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster may have a low price point, but it comes with professional features you simply won’t find on other guitars.

Why We Love It:
  • Iconic Stratocaster style
  • Budget-friendly
  • Comfortable playing

FEATURES

  • Slim C-shaped neck for easy playability
  • The iconic ’50s Stratocaster body shape
  • Stratocaster ’50s’ 1.65″ bone nut
  • Vintage sunburst design
  • Three single-coil pickups

REVIEW

Get the iconic Fender Stratocaster sound and style with this beautiful guitar. This Squier Classic Vibe model is an updated version of the last, meaning it comes with many awesome revisions to take your guitar playing to the next level.

With a trio of alnico single coils, you can really capture the amazing sound you’ve been looking for. This guitar also features a 5-way blade switch that will let you experiment with a range of tones to help you find your sound.

The neck and fretboard feature a 1.65″ bone nut, which takes this guitar from budget-friendly to professional-level, providing exceptional sustain and performance. Speaking of the neck, the classic C-shape design is comfortable and slim, which is perfect for beginners as they get used to playing.

The two-color brown sunburst design will make you feel cool and stylish, no matter your playing level.

VERDICT

With its slim neck profile, an iconic sound, and friendly budget, the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster is ideal for any beginner guitarist.

THIS ELECTRIC GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

If you’re looking for a modern model with a vintage theme, this might be the best beginner electric guitar for you.

4. Squier Bullet Mustang

The Squier Bullet Mustang is a no-nonsense model with a cool style and amazing sound. No matter where you’re playing guitar, you’re sure to get plenty of attention.

THE INDIE KING

Squier Bullet Mustang

From Kurt Cobain to Lee Ranaldo, the Mustang guitar is a firm favorite for many popular and established musicians, and it’s not hard to see why.

Why We Love It:
  • Lightweight and comfortable
  • No-nonsense playability
  • Fender Play Lessons

FEATURES

  • 2 humbucking pickups for delicious tone
  • C-shaped maple neck with an Indian laurel fingerboard
  • 24-inch scale length, perfect for smaller hands
  • Sealed die-cast tuners for effortless tuning
  • Vintage offset shape to draw the eye

REVIEW

With its lightweight body shape, this is one of the best electric guitars for beginners. Whether you’re rocking out on stage or practicing in your garage, experience limited fatigue. That’s right – this means you can play for hours. However, don’t count the Squier Bullet Mustang out if you’re not a beginner – the features on this model ensure this guitar sounds like a professional-grade model.

Looking for a clear, authoritative tone? The guitar’s dual humbuckers pack a punch and deliver powerful midranges. They also ensure you don’t get that hum that often comes with single coils.

This guitar features a 24-inch scale length, which makes it perfect for smaller hands. So if your child wants to learn to play, this is a great model for them. The sealed die-cast tuners are also beginner-friendly, helping you to tune with ease and get the beautiful sound you’ve been after.

Not to mention, when purchasing this model, you also get access to Fender Play Lessons, an e-platform that can teach you the skills you need to be able to play.

VERDICT

When it comes to the best beginner electric guitars, you can’t go wrong with the Squier Bullet Mustang. This popular guitar is made for ease of use, no matter where you are on your guitar-playing journey.

THIS ELECTRIC GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

If your forte is indie or alternative music (or even underground rock), this is one of the best electric guitars for you.

5. Epiphone SG Standard

The Epiphone SG Standard is from the Inspired by Gibson collection. With its high-quality hardware and shape, this guitar mirrors the distinctive Gibson Les Paul design, bringing you the tone and sound you need to recreate any genre and style of music.

FOR THOSE WHO ROCK

Epiphone SG Standard

Famous names like The Who, Black Sabbath, and AC/DC used Gibson’s guitars to power their music, and it’s not difficult to see why.

Why We Love It:
  • Inspired by Gibson Collection
  • Distinctive design and sound
  • Comfortable with easy tuning

FEATURES

  • Mahogany body provides excellent sound with rich tone and depth
  • Indian laurel fingerboard for clarity
  • SlimTaper mahogany neck
  • LockTone ABR Tune-o-matic bridge
  • Epiphone deluxe tuners for effortless tuning
  • SG profile and “batwing” pickguard

REVIEW

This model, in particular, is designed to take your sound to the next level. The SG Standard takes everything that makes the SG great and has only improved on it from there, delivering excellent sound with amazing depth. This is all thanks to the solid mahogany neck and body, designed to provide that rich, warm tone to your music. This versatile guitar also features an Indian laurel fingerboard, offering you the spice and punch you need in your highs and overtones.

This classic humbucker isn’t just built for rock; the high-quality hardware and electronics mean you can use it to make sweet music, no matter the genre you like to play – from heart-thumping metal to smooth, velvety jazz.

This electric guitar also sits at a comfortable weight. So if you’re not used to playing electric yet, it’s a great model to help you get used to it. Not only that – but it also comes with a LockTone ABR Tune-o-matic bridge and Epiphone deluxe tuners to make the tuning process effortless. All you have to do is focus on your music.

VERDICT

One look at the Epiphone SG Standard, and you’ll see that this beginner electric guitar is built with quality and performance in mind.

THIS IS PERFECT FOR

This is one of the best electric guitars for both beginners and professionals. Purchase this now at the start of your journey and watch it take you through your entire music career.

6. Gretsch G2420 Streamliner

The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is one of the best electric guitars for beginners simply because it plays like a dream. And, for the price, you can’t get much better than that.

For Casual Players

Gretsch G2420 Streamliner

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Why We Love It:
  • Play right out of the box
  • Vibrant, luxurious sound
  • Classic Gretsch features

FEATURES

  • An arched maple top and basswood body for rich sound
  • Anchored Adjustomatic bridge
  • Dual-coil pickups for great sustain
  • Neo-Classic “Thumbnail” fretboard inlays
  • “G” Arrow Knobs
  • Master Tone control, Master Volume, 3-way pickup selector

REVIEW

When it comes to sound quality, Gretsch never lets us down. The basswood body of this guitar, combined with the arched maple wood top, helps to create that classic humbucker tone.

Get the vibrant sustain, clarity, and luxurious tone you’d expect to see on pricier models with this cheaper electric guitar. It’s all down to the dual-coil pickups, stop tailpiece, and anchored “adjustomatic” bridge. Control the sound you want with the master volume, master tone control, and 3-way pickup selector.

With features like “G” arrow knobs, neo-classic “thumbnail” fretboard inlays, and more, this electric guitar has everything you need to pick up and play right out of the box.

VERDICT

The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is a perfect choice for anyone picking up their first electric guitar. With a rich tone and smooth playability, it makes learning this instrument a breeze. All you have to do is pick it up and go.

THIS GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

This is one of the best beginner electric guitars for casual players. If you want to get started with an electric guitar but don’t have a lot of time to practice, you’ll need something quick and simple for when you finally pick it up. This is the one.

7. Ibanez Artcore AS53

The Ibanez Artcore AS53 is the best beginner electric guitar if you’re looking for a hollowbody guitar but you’re apprehensive about purchasing because of the size. We get it – big guitars can be uncomfortable to play, especially for beginners. However, the Ibanez Artcore AS53 provides a combination of sound and comfort in one package.

Cool Modern Sound

Ibanez Artcore AS53

The nyatoh neck and walnut fretboard are comfortable under your fingers, letting you rock out with ease.

Why We Love It:
  • Hollowbody guitar design
  • Suits all music genres
  • Perfect budget guitar

FEATURES

  • Infinity R pickups for balanced tone
  • Sapele back, top, and sides for a warm tone
  • Semi-hollowbody for flexibility of genre
  •  Undersized body for comfort
  • Comfortable nyatoh neck and walnut fretboard

REVIEW

It’s true that guitarists (especially budding guitarists) tend to avoid hollowbody guitars simply because of their size. However, the AS53 is a semi-hollowbody, which means it provides that amazing hollowbody tone you’re craving but will still be comfortable to play.

One of the best things about hollowbody guitars is that they can be used to play in a range of music genres. From rock to jazz and even country, it’s never been easier to find your sound with this beginner electric guitar.

This guitar’s pickups ensure you get the well-balanced, warm, and rich tonal complexity you deserve. These Infinity R pickups also reduce feedback, which is something that’s all too common with hollowbody guitars. So all you have to do is sit back, relax, and play.

VERDICT

This is one of the best budget guitars if you’re looking for that amazing hollowbody guitar depth at a reasonable price. It’s especially great if you want to play guitar with more of a modern sound.

THIS GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

On the hunt for a classic, hollowbody guitar on a budget? This is the best option for you.

8. Epiphone SG-Special

With deep, rich sound and a vintage style you’ll love to show off, the Epiphone SG-Special is one of the best budget guitars for beginners. It really goes the extra mile to prove you don’t have to spend a lot to get high-quality.

Best Budget Option

Epiphone SG-Special

The tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece ensure your intonation is spot on. Other electric guitar features include a standard 24.75-inch SG scale length, 22 medium jumbo frets, and a SlimTaper D profile for easy playability.

Why We Love It:
  • Vintage-worn style
  • Amazing price for quality
  • Classic rock tone

FEATURES

  • Master volume and master tone controls
  • SlimTaper D profile neck
  • Tune-o-matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece
  • Open-coil humbuckers that feature ceramic magnets
  • Clarity and depth comparable to more expensive models

REVIEW

Don’t let the budget price of this beginner’s guitar put you off. In fact, it plays and feels just like more expensive, professional models. This is due to the construction of this guitar’s body. Poplar encourages balanced tone and richness, helping you play with all the depth you need to bang out those classic rock sounds.

However, the standout feature that makes this guitar so popular is the vintage-worn finish. Guitarists, old and new, can all appreciate a well-worn guitar. It’ll give you, and everyone around you, the feeling that this guitar has been loved and played for years. So even if you’re just finding your feet with your first guitar, you’ll feel like a seasoned pro.

In terms of hardware, this guitar comes with open-coil humbuckers that feature ceramic magnets, giving you the warm, punchy midrange you need, whether you’re playing as part of a group or rocking out a solo.

Speaking of easy playability, the controls include a master tone and volume, and a 3-way pickup selector, giving you easy access to the sound you need.

And did we mention that you can also order this guitar with a hard case? This means you can play on the go – your new guitar will always be protected, no matter where your music takes you.

VERDICT

There’s so much to love about the Epiphone SG-Special. From its vintage look and sound to its amazing price, it’s one of the best beginner guitars on the market.

THIS GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

Looking for a model with more of a vintage style? Then this is the best electric guitar for you. Other electric guitars for beginners may sound great, but they don’t look as good as this one – trust us.

9. Gretsch G5425 Streamliner

Sometimes you want the best of both worlds. The Gretsch G5425 Streamliner is one of the best beginner electric guitars if you’re looking for something that offers both modern and vintage style tones.

Ultimate Comfort

Gretsch G5425 Streamliner

The best thing about Gretsch guitars is that they’re always built with the player in mind, and the G5425 Streamliner is no exception.

Why We Love It:
  • Perfect starter bundle
  • 5G guitar amplifier
  • Strat style guitar

FEATURES

  • Hollowbody style provides rich sound
  • Full-size, single-cutaway body for comfort
  • Thin “U” neck profile for easy chording
  • Features two Broad’Tron humbuckers

REVIEW

Designed for comfort, this model features a thin “U” neck profile that makes chording comfortable, no matter what song you’re playing. Its full-sized single-cutaway body shape is comfortable to hold, letting you practice for hours without the fatigue that sometimes comes with other guitars.

With modern electronics and a vintage look, you can rock in style. Whether you’re interested in playing smooth jazz or hard rock, the G5425 can accommodate, delivering a range of tones suitable for all types of genres. This guitar features two custom-wound Broad’Tron humbucking pickups that provide beautifully balanced highs, mids, and lows.

But perhaps the best thing about this electric guitar is its look. Complete with F-holes and a splash of color, you won’t just sound great – you’ll also look good when playing, no matter your skill level.

VERDICT

This is one of the best beginner electric guitars if you’re looking for something modern with a vintage feel. With a rich tone (thanks to the hollowbody design), powerful depth, and a comfortable body shape, you can play for hours without feeling fatigued – making it the perfect choice if you’re just getting started.

THIS GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

Those looking for a combination of modern and vintage vibes will love the Gretsch G5425 Streamliner. You really get the best of both worlds with this guitar.

10. Squier Affinity Strat

If you’re looking for a guitar bundle to get you started, the Squier Affinity Strat is the best model for you. Complete with a gig bag, guitar cable, strap, and access to a Fender Play subscription, this is one of the best beginner electric guitar deals on the market. It has everything you need to get started right out of the box.

Our Premium Option

Squier Affinity Strat

Shaping your tone and finding your style has never been easier, thanks to the two single coil pickups (including a bridge and neck pickup), a 5-way pickup switch, and a humbucker.

Why We Love It:
  • Perfect starter bundle
  • 5G guitar amplifier
  • Strat style guitar

FEATURES

  • Stunning maple neck and laurel fingerboard
  • Two single-coil pickups and a 5-way pickup switch
  • Fender Frontman 15G guitar amplifier
  • Access to Fender Play, a hub of online lessons
  • Included bag, strap, guitar picks, and cable

REVIEW

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster is the perfect model if you’re looking for a bundle to get you started. Fender’s guitars are always fantastically made with quality in mind, and this one is no exception. With a stunning maple neck and laurel fingerboard, you can play with ease (and without the fear of fatigue!)

When you order this guitar, you also get a stylish Fender Frontman 15G guitar amplifier to give you the power and crunch you crave. Adjust the gain control to experience a wide range of effects, from distortion or overdrive. This amp also features treble, bass, and volume controls.

Worried about waking up the neighbors? Don’t be! There are also headphone jacks and an auxiliary input so that you can practice for hours without disturbing a soul.

Like with other Fender guitars, purchasing this model will also give you access to Fender Play, an online platform made up of hundreds of lessons and resources you can use to teach yourself the guitar – from basic guitar techniques to more complex playing options. With step-by-step videos, progress tracking, and a fun and friendly community, you can learn to play with support.

VERDICT

If you’re purchasing your first guitar, you should definitely consider getting a bundle to go with it. This one has everything you need to get started, including online lessons to sink your teeth into. The guitar itself is of excellent quality. Even if you purchase new guitars down the line, it’ll remain one of your favorite electric guitars.

THIS GUITAR IS PERFECT FOR

This guitar is recommended for complete beginners. If you need a bag, strap, and lessons, this is undoubtedly the best beginner’s electric guitar for you.

FAQS and Buying Guide

playing bass

Which brands make the best beginner electric guitars?

With a sea of guitar brands and options on the market, the process of buying your first electric guitar might seem a little daunting – especially if you’re a complete beginner and you’ve never picked up an instrument in your life.

If you’re looking for your first electric guitar and are unsure which brand to go with, there are a few things you need to consider. The first is quality. Beginner guitars should come with the quality you need to start playing without breaking the bank. You might be tempted to spend a lot of money on a more expensive guitar with many new and cool features, but that might be a mistake – especially if you’re just dipping your toe into the world of electric guitars.

On the other hand, you don’t want to spend too little. Wasting money on a cheap, poor-sounding guitar that will fall apart in a couple of weeks is no good. You’ll either end up spending more money on a better model, or you’ll just give up and decide electric guitars aren’t for you.

Fender makes some of the best beginner electric guitars. As a popular name that’s been known in the industry for decades now, they’re a brand you can trust to deliver the quality you deserve at a great price. Not to mention, when you purchase a Fender guitar, most models come with a subscription to Fender Play, an online learning platform where you can teach yourself to play the electric guitar through step-by-step lessons.

Gretsch and Ibanez guitars also offer high-quality beginner electric guitars at reasonable rates.

playing guitar.

How much should you spend on a beginner electric guitar?

You should expect to spend between $200 to $800 dollars on a beginner electric guitar, but you’ll most likely find a decent one within the $200 – $500 range.

Our list includes a model that’s just below $200. However, we wouldn’t recommend looking at models below $150 simply because they’re unlikely to be good quality. The best beginner electric guitars should be affordable but made from quality components to ensure you get the sound you deserve.

If you’re ever in doubt, stick to well-known brands like Gretsch, Ibanez, and Fender, as you know you’ll be getting good quality models.

What is the easiest electric guitar for beginners?

One of the easiest electric guitars for beginners is the Gretsch G2420 Streamliner. This model plays like an absolute dream. Despite its budget price, it features the rich tone and sound depth you’d expect on a pricier model. It’s so easy to get started with this guitar – you can play it right out of the box.

We’d also recommend any model by Fender (such as the Squier Bullet Mustang, the Squier Classic Vibe, or the Squier Affinity Strat). These electric guitars come with access to Fender Play, Fender’s online platform for lessons. If you’re looking for the best electric guitars for beginners but have no idea how to start playing, getting access to an online platform is the best way to learn. It’ll give you step-by-step instructions and teach you all the guitar tricks you’ll need to impress.

Any of the guitars on our list are perfect for beginners.

electric guitar

Should a beginner start with an electric guitar?

Electric guitars are a great option for beginners, mostly because they have thinner necks and lighter guitar strings, requiring less hand strength. Any budding guitar player knows the pain of getting started – hand fatigue, wrist pain, and finger calluses are all consequences of picking up this type of instrument.

With electric guitars, the grip is easier, the reach is shorter, and your hands will suffer less as a result. Electric guitars are also great for people with small hands for this very reason. So if you have a child who wants to learn to play the guitar, why not go electric?

One concern you might have when starting with the electric guitar is noise. But it’s actually much easier to control the noise with an electric guitar as opposed to an acoustic guitar. This is because electric models feature volume control, letting you adjust the noise to suit you. On the other hand, you can crank up that volume when you need to.

Regardless of which type of guitar is easier, it’s always best to go with the instrument you want to play. Don’t focus on how difficult or easy it is to learn; if you’re determined to learn to play, it’ll be much easier to stick to a practice schedule. So if you want to become an acoustic guitar pro, go for it! Or if you want to rock out on the electric guitar like Brian May, go for that instead.

Just browse our best beginner electric guitar recommendations to get started.