As a musician or a budding guitar enthusiast, you might have wondered, Best Short Scale Electric Guitar?” This comprehensive review aims to answer that question by delving into the specifics of the top eight short-scale electric guitars available in 2023.
In this article, we’ll detail each model’s unique features, specifications, and benefits, helping you make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and playing style.
You’ll learn:
- The technical specifications and distinctive features of each guitar that contribute to their sound, playability, and overall performance.
- Detailed reviews based on expert assessments, allowing you to understand how each guitar fares in real-world conditions.
- Recommendations for specific user types, identifying which guitar is perfect for various needs, whether you’re a beginner, have smaller hands or are a traveling professional.
Each model reviewed here excels in its own unique way. The best one for you will depend on your specific requirements.
The Best Short Scale Electric Guitars in 2023
- Fender Mustang 90 – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MustP90AN–fender-player-mustang-90-aged-natural
- Ibanez miKro – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/GSRM20BWK–ibanez-gsrm20bwk-mikro-weathered-black
- Fender Duo-Sonic – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DuoSonPDS–fender-player-duo-sonic-desert-sand
- Jackson JS Dinky Minion – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/JS1XDMB–jackson-dinky-minion-js1x-black
- Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/EGSVCHVCH–epiphone-sg-special-ve-cherry
- Squier Mini Strat – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/StratMiniDR–squier-mini-strat-electric-guitar-dakota-red-with-laurel-fingerboard
- Epiphone Power Players Les Paul – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/LPPowerPLR–epiphone-power-players-les-paul-electric-guitar-lava-red
- Ibanez GRGM 6 – https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/GRGM21MBLT–ibanez-gio-grgm21m-blue-burst
Whether you’re looking for a bright, clear tone, a guitar that’s easy to travel with, or one that’s ideal for rock and roll, this review is designed to guide you through your purchasing decision.
1. Fender Mustang 90
The Fender Mustang 90, with its Alder body and "C"-shaped neck, is a classic short-scale guitar that promises a punchy tone. Its 24-inch scale length is perfect for those who prefer a compact and comfortable design, while the two Mustang MP90 pickups deliver a full and powerful sound.
- Excellent build quality
- Comfortable short-scale length
- Powerful, punchy tone
Why someone should buy: This guitar offers an exceptional playing experience, blending modern features and the original Mustang’s retro style. It’s ideal for those seeking a versatile instrument adept at crunching rhythms and soaring leads.
Technical Features:
- Alder body
- Maple neck
- 24-inch scale
- Maple fingerboard
- Two Mustang MP90 pickups
Review:
The Fender Mustang 90 is a standout short-scale electric guitar that delivers aesthetics and performance. The alder body offers a robust resonance, and the “C”-shaped neck ensures smooth playability.
It boasts two Mustang MP90 pickups, providing a well-loved, punchy, vibrant tone.
Verdict:
This Fender Mustang 90 is a fantastic pick for those looking for a reliable short-scale electric guitar that delivers sound, playability, and style.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Both beginner and experienced guitarists who prefer a compact design and versatile sound.
2. Ibanez Mikro
This small-scale guitar packs a powerful punch with its rich tones and robust sound. It features a poplar body, GRGM neck, and a Jatoba fretboard that provides stability and a bright tonal character.
- Compact neck width
- Compact neck width
- Comfortable neck
Why someone should buy: The miKro is designed for comfort and ease of playability, making it an excellent choice for beginners, young players, or those with smaller hands.
Technical Features:
- GRGM maple neck
- Poplar body
- Jatoba fretboard
- 24 frets
- F106 bridge
- Infinity R neck and bridge pickups
Review:
The Ibanez miKro is a well-built short-scale guitar that does not compromise sound quality. Its poplar body and maple neck create a balanced tonal output, while the Infinity R pickups ensure an accurate and dynamic sound. It’s user-friendly with easy string height adjustments and maintains tonal clarity even under heavy settings.
Verdict:
The Ibanez miKro is an excellent choice for those seeking a compact guitar that delivers big on sound and functionality.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Young learners, beginners, and players with smaller hands who are after a rich and versatile sound.
3. Fender Duo-Sonic
The Fender Duo-Sonic is a short-scale electric guitar that uniquely blends vintage looks and modern playability. Its 24-inch scale length and "C"-shaped maple neck ensure a comfortable playing experience, while its two pickups offer versatile tonal options.
- Iconic Fender design
- Versatile tonal options
- Comfortable playability
Why someone should buy: The Fender Duo-Sonic is a perfect fit for those who crave authentic Fender tones in a accessible, player-friendly size.
Technical Features:
- Scale Length: 24″
- Neck Material: Maple
- Single-coil neck pickup
- Humbucking bridge pickup with coil-split capability
- Six-saddle string-through-body hardtail Strat® bridge
Review:
The Fender Duo-Sonic is a versatile instrument with a wide array of tonal possibilities, thanks to its single-coil neck pickup and humbucking bridge pickup. Its comfortable “C”-shaped neck and 24-inch scale length make it a pleasure to play, while the six-saddle hardtail Strat® bridge adds tuning stability and sustain.
Verdict:
Fender Duo-Sonic is a winning choice for any player seeking a versatile short-scale guitar with an authentic Fender feel and tone.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Players seeking a vintage look with modern features and a wide range of tonal options.
4. Jackson JS Dinky Minion
This short-scale guitar doesn't compromise on the heavy sound Jackson guitars are known for. Designed with a solid poplar body, this guitar delivers rich resonance, while the speedy maple neck ensures excellent playability
- Great for metal genres
- Compact and travel-friendly
- Powerful sound
Why someone should buy: The Dinky Minion is perfect for metal enthusiasts with small hands or those who want a travel-friendly guitar that still rocks.
Technical Features:
- Poplar body
- Maple neck
- 24 frets
- Two Jackson high-output humbuckers
- String-through-body
- Hard tail bridge
Review:
The Jackson JS Dinky Minion is a small guitar with a big sound. Its poplar body and high-output Jackson humbuckers deliver a tone full of power and resonance, perfect for classic rock and metal genres.
The neck, with its 24 jumbo frets, provides a fast playing experience.
Verdict:
This is a fantastic option for those who desire the heavy sound and the slick feel of a Jackson in a smaller, more manageable size.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Younger players, metal enthusiasts, and anyone needing a travel-friendly guitar without compromising on a robust sound.
5. Epiphone SG Special Satin E1
The Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 offers the classic SG tone and style at a fraction of the cost. This guitar, featuring a poplar body mated with an Okoume neck and rosewood fretboard, delivers a rich, midrange-heavy tone that SG guitars are known for.
- An affordable option for SG fans
- Classic SG tone and style
- Good for beginners
Why someone should buy: The SG Special Satin E1 is a perfect choice for beginners or players on a budget who still want that classic SG sound and feel.
Technical Features:
- Poplar body
- Okoume neck
- Rosewood fretboard
- Epiphone humbuckers
- Worn Vintage Edition finish
Review:
The Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 perfectly blends affordability and classic SG style. Its poplar body, along with Epiphone humbuckers, provides a thick, midrange-rich tone characteristic of SG guitars.
Additionally, its worn Vintage Edition finish adds a vintage aesthetic to its overall look. So if you’re looking for something with a classic style, this is the guitar for you.
Verdict:
The Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 offers excellent value for money, making it a smart choice for beginners or players on a budget.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Beginners, budget-conscious players, and those who appreciate the classic SG tone and style.
6. Squier Mini Stratocaster
The Squier Mini Stratocaster packs the iconic Strat design and sound into a smaller, more manageable size. With its poplar body, neck, and three single-coil pickups, this guitar delivers the clear, crisp tone that Stratocasters are known for.
- Iconic Stratocaster design in a smaller size
- Clear, crisp tone
- Good for beginners and players with smaller hands
Why someone should buy: The Mini Strat is an excellent choice for young beginners or players with smaller hands who want that classic Stratocaster experience.
Technical Features:
- Poplar body
- Maple neck
- Indian Laurel fretboard
- Three single-coil pickups
- Hardtail bridge
Review:
The Squier Mini Stratocaster delivers an authentic Stratocaster experience in a smaller, more manageable size. Its poplar body and three single-coil pickups provide a crisp, clear, dynamically responsive tone. The maple “C” shaped neck and Indian Laurel fretboard offer a comfortable playing experience, especially for those with smaller hands.
Verdict:
The Squier Mini Stratocaster is an excellent guitar for beginners, smaller-handed players, and Stratocaster fans looking for a smaller, travel-friendly instrument.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Beginners, players with smaller hands, and Stratocaster enthusiasts.
7. Epiphone Power Players Les Paul
The Epiphone Power Players Les Paul combines classic Les Paul sound and feel with a shorter scale length and smaller body. Ideal for younger players, those with smaller hands, or anyone needing a reliable travel guitar.
- Classic Les Paul sound and feel
- Smaller size for ease of play
- Solid package for beginners
Why someone should buy: The Power Players Les Paul offers a mahogany body and neck with an Indian laurel fretboard that produces a warm and rich tone.
Technical Features:
- Mahogany body
- Mahogany body
- Indian Laurel fretboard
- 700T and 650R humbuckers
- SlimTaper “D” neck profile
Review:
The Epiphone Power Players Les Paul delivers the classic Les Paul experience in a smaller, more manageable size. The combination of a mahogany body and neck, along with 700T and 650R humbuckers, produces a rich, warm tone characteristic of Les Paul guitars.
The smaller size and shorter scale length make it a more accessible option for beginners or those with smaller hands.
Verdict:
The Epiphone Power Players Les Paul is an excellent entry point for beginners or smaller-handed players wanting to experience the classic Les Paul tone and feel.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Young players, those with smaller hands, and anyone who wants a portable guitar with a classic Les Paul sound.
8. Ibanez GRGM 6
The Ibanez GRGM 6 is a high-output tone beast in a small package. With its basswood body, maple neck, and Infinity R humbuckers, this guitar delivers a range of savage tones that remain clear even under heavy settings.
- High-output tones in a small package
- Great for heavy music genres
- Ideal for travel and younger players
Why someone should buy: Its smaller size and shorter scale length make it perfect for younger players, smaller hands, or traveling musicians.
Technical Features:
- Basswood body
- Maple neck
- Maple fingerboard
- Infinity R humbuckers
- 22.2″ scale
Review:
The Ibanez GRGM 6 is a compact guitar that doesn’t compromise tonal power. This instrument, with its basswood body and maple fretboard, and neck, offers a clear and well-rounded tone.
The Infinity R humbuckers ensure a range of high-output tones that retain clarity even under heavy settings. The guitar’s size and 22.2″ scale length make it highly accessible for younger players or those with smaller hands. In short, this guitar plays like a dream.
Verdict:
For those seeking a small-scale guitar that can still pack a punch, the Ibanez GRGM 6 is a fantastic option. Its build and features cater well to heavy music genres.
This Guitar is Perfect For:
Young players, those with smaller hands, musicians on the move, and anyone seeking a compact guitar for heavy music genres.
Short Scale Electric Guitar Buyer’s Guide
When buying a short-scale guitar, several factors come into play. You want to make sure that you choose a guitar that not only fits your physical needs but also your musical style and preferences. This comprehensive buyer’s guide will cover important aspects to consider before making your purchase.
Scale Length
First and foremost, consider the scale length of the guitar. This is the distance from the bridge to the nut. Unlike traditional and classic guitars, short-scale guitars typically have a scale length between 22 to 24.75 inches. The shorter the scale length, the less string tension, making the guitar easier to play. This is particularly beneficial for those with smaller hands or those just starting on the guitar.
Neck Profile
The neck profile, or shape, can greatly impact the playability and comfort of the guitar. Common neck profiles include the “C,” “V,” and “U” shapes, each offering a different feel.
For example, the “C” shape is comfortable for most players due to its rounded design. Choosing a guitar with a neck profile that feels comfortable in your hand is essential.
Tonewoods
The materials used to construct a guitar greatly influence the guitar’s tone. For example, alder, commonly used in Fender guitars, provides a balanced tone with rich lows and crisp highs.
Mahogany, used in many Gibson models, delivers a warm, rich tone with excellent sustain. The choice of tonewood depends on the kind of sound you prefer.
Pickups
Pickups play a significant role in shaping the sound of an electric model. There are two main types of pickups: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, clear tone, while humbuckers offer a warmer, fuller sound. Some guitars combine both, providing a wide range of tonal options.
A few options on our list contain two single-coil pickups.
Hardware
Consider the quality and type of hardware on the guitar. This includes the tuning machines, bridge, and nut. High-quality hardware not only ensures the durability of the guitar but also impacts playability and tuning stability.
Most electric guitars will feature a Master tone control, and some may have additional controls as well or even in-built tuners for solid tuning stability.
Aesthetics and Finish
While it might not affect the sound, the look and finish of a guitar can be a significant deciding factor for many people. Whether it’s a classic sunburst finish or a vibrant solid color, you’ll want a guitar that appeals to you visually.
Price and Value for Money
Lastly, consider the price and whether the guitar offers value for money. A higher price doesn’t always equate to a better guitar, and an affordable price doesn’t mean a poorly made instrument. Some affordable models offer excellent quality and performance. Remember, a mini guitar is likely to be cheaper but still offers the same tonal versatility that full-sized guitars are known for.
Ensure to balance your budget with your requirements and preferences. Go for trusted electric guitar brands.
Best Short Scale Electric Guitars: Frequently Asked Questions
What are short-scale guitars good for?
Short-scale guitars are excellent for a variety of situations.
Their shorter neck length makes playing easier, especially for beginners or those with smaller hands. This reduction in scale length reduces the string tension, allowing for easier chord formations and less finger strength required.
Additionally, short-scale guitars tend to have a warmer, thicker tone that is often preferred in genres like blues and rock.
Which electric guitars have the shortest scale length?
Among the models we’ve reviewed, the Jackson JS Dinky Minion and the Ibanez GRGM 6, both with a 22.2-inch length, are the mini guitars with the shortest length. However, it’s important to remember that while shorter scale lengths can enhance playability, they also affect the instrument’s tone and resonance.
Do short-scale guitars need special strings?
While short-scale electric guitars can be fitted with standard strings, some players prefer to use strings specifically designed for these instruments. This is because the lower string tension on a short-scale guitar can sometimes lead to a looser feel and decreased volume.
Using strings made for short-scale guitars can help counterbalance this by providing a higher tension that improves the feel and sound.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best short-scale electric guitar is a highly personal decision that depends on your unique requirements, preferences, and budget. This guide has provided you with a thorough understanding of what to look for in a short-scale instrument, as well as some excellent options available in the market today.
Remember, a guitar is an extension of your musical voice, so select an instrument that resonates with you. No matter which model you pick, it should motivate you to pick it up and play, fostering your love for music and furthering your skills as a guitarist.
Happy playing!