Finding the best electric guitars for beginnerscan be both thrilling and overwhelming, given the vast array of options available.
When choosing your first electric guitar, it’s important to consider factors like scale length and neck profiles, especially if you have smaller hands or are a younger player. Guitars with shorter scale lengths and slimmer necks can be more comfortable for beginners, making it easier to learn basic chords and techniques.
Additionally, the choice between humbucker pickups and single coil pickups can significantly influence the tone and versatility of the guitar, allowing you to experiment with different sounds and styles.
In summary, the best beginner electric guitars are those that match your personal preferences, playing style, and budget, providing a solid foundation for your musical journey. With the right guitar in hand, you’re well on your way to discovering the joys of playing and creating music.
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat is offering a blend of vintage style and modern playability. Its design is inspired by the iconic Stratocasters of the 1950s.
It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate classic aesthetics combined with contemporary features. This guitar is not just an instrument; it’s a gateway to the rich history of rock and roll.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Pine
- Neck Material: Maple
- Neck Shape: “C” Shape
- Scale Length: 25.5″ (64.77 cm)
- Fingerboard Material: Maple
- Frets: 21, Narrow Tall
- Pickups: Fender Designed Alnico Single-Coils
- Controls: Master Volume, Tone 1 (Neck Pickup), Tone 2 (Middle Pickup)
Who Is It For?
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat is an ideal choice for those embarking on their musical journey.
The “C” shaped maple neck and manageable scale length make it particularly well-suited for younger players or those with smaller hands. Thanks to these features, it’s comfortable to play. This guitar is a great fit for enthusiasts of classic rock, blues, and country, offering the versatility to explore a variety of musical genres.
Whether you’re practicing at home, performing at local gigs, or recording in a studio, the Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat provides a reliable and inspiring experience. Its blend of vintage style and modern playability makes it a fantastic choice for both aspiring and seasoned guitarists.
Best Value: Yamaha Pacifica 112V
The electric guitars often blend quality, affordability, and ease of use, and the Yamaha Pacifica 112V stands out in this category. Known for its versatility and excellent build quality, this guitar is a favorite among new players.
Its sleek design and impressive features make it a top choice for those starting their musical journey. It offers a blend of style and substance that’s hard to beat.
Specifications:
- Scale Length: 25.5″ (648mm)
- Body Material: Alder
- Neck Material: Maple
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Alnico V Humbucker (Bridge), Alnico V Single Coils (Middle, Neck)
- Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone with Push/Pull Coil Split
- Hardware: Chrome
Who Is It For?
The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is an ideal choice for those seeking the electric guitars. Its versatility makes it perfect for a wide range of musical styles, from rock and blues to jazz and pop.
The combination of a humbucker and single-coil pickups offers a broad tonal palette, catering to both clean and overdriven sounds. Its comfortable neck and user-friendly setup make it suitable for players of all ages, especially those just starting out.
Whether you’re a young aspiring musician or an adult picking up the guitar for the first time, the Pacifica 112V is a great choice. It has quality, affordability, and is easy to play.
Best Versatility: PRS SE Standard 24
Dive into the world of electric guitars with the PRS SE Standard 24, a top pick among the electric guitars. This guitar is a blend of quality, versatility, and style, making it an ideal choice for those starting their musical journey.
Its sleek design and exceptional playability cater to a wide range of musical aspirations. This ensures a smooth and enjoyable learning experience.
Specifications:
- Scale Length: 25”
- Neck: Maple
- Frets: 24
- Pickups: 85/15 “S”
- Controls: Master Volume, Push/Pull Tone control, 3-way blade pickup switch
- Body: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Hardware: Nickel
Who Is It For?
The PRS SE Standard 24 is the quintessential choice for those embarking on their journey with the electric guitars. Its 25” scale length and 24 frets offer great flexibility, catering to a variety of playing styles and musical genres.
The comfortable maple neck and mahogany body make it a great fit for both younger players and adults. Whether you’re a budding rockstar, a blues enthusiast, or exploring other styles of music, this guitar’s versatile sound and durable build make it a reliable companion.
Its slightly higher price range reflects its quality. This makes it a worthy investment for serious beginners who are committed to honing their craft.
Best Playability: Yamaha Revstar RSE20
Its unique design and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice for those starting their musical journey.
The Revstar RSE20 has eye-catching aesthetics and exceptional playability. It is sure to inspire and excite any budding guitarist.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Chambered Mahogany
- Neck Material: 3-Piece Mahogany
- Scale Length: 24.75” (628.6mm)
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22, Jumbo
- Pickups: 2x YGD-designed VH3 covered humbuckers
- Controls: 3-way lever pickup selector, volume, and tone
- Finish Options: Multiple, including Neon Yellow, Black, Red Copper
Who Is It For?
The Yamaha Revstar RSE20 is an excellent choice for beginners looking for the electric guitars. Its comfortable neck and easy playability make it perfect for those just starting out. It helps them develop their skills without the frustration of a difficult-to-play instrument.
The versatile sound range suits various musical genres. It goes from clean to gritty, making it ideal for exploratory musicians keen on finding their unique style.
Additionally, its aesthetic appeal is a big plus for younger players. It also attracts those drawn to visually striking instruments.
Whether you’re a teenager picking up the guitar for the first time or an adult fulfilling a lifelong dream of playing, the Revstar RSE20 offers a rewarding and enjoyable playing experience.
Best Budget: Squier Bullet Mustang
The Squier Bullet Mustang is offering a blend of style, comfort, and performance. Its lightweight design and user-friendly features make it an ideal choice.
It’s for those embarking on their musical journey. This guitar not only looks cool but is also crafted to ease the learning curve for new players, making it a popular choice.
Specifications:
- Scale Length: 24” (610mm)
- Body Material: Lightweight Poplar
- Neck: “C”-shaped Maple
- Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
- Frets: 22 Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: Dual Humbucking
- Bridge: Hardtail with String-Through-Body
- Weight: Approximately 5 lbs 14 oz
Who Is It For?
The Squier Bullet Mustang is an excellent choice for those seeking their first foray into the world of electric guitars. It’s especially good for younger players or those with smaller hands. This is thanks to its shorter scale length and comfortable neck profile.
This guitar is a fantastic option for anyone looking for the electric guitars without breaking the bank. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle and play for extended periods, ideal for practice sessions.
Whether you’re a budding rockstar, a garage band enthusiast, or just exploring your musical talents, the Squier Bullet Mustang offers a solid foundation to develop your skills.
The electric guitar is cheap and has simple but good features. It’s great for beginners who want to find the electric guitars. It provides a no-frills approach to learning.
Best For Metal: Epiphone Les Paul Studio
For those seeking the electric guitars, especially in the realm of metal music, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio stands out as a top contender.
Its robust build and rich, powerful sound make it an ideal choice for beginners eager to dive into the world of heavy riffs and shredding solos.
This guitar combines quality and affordability, making it a go-to for aspiring metal guitarists.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Mahogany
- Top: Maple Veneer
- Neck: Mahogany
- Fingerboard: Pao Ferro
- Scale Length: 24.75 inches
- Pickups: Zebra-Coil Ceramic Humbuckers
- Controls: Volume and Tone
- Bridge: LockTone Tune-O-Matic
Who Is It For?
The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is a perfect match for beginners who are passionate about metal and hard rock genres. Its humbucker pickups deliver the high-output, crunchy tones essential for these styles of music.
The guitar’s 24.75-inch scale length and comfortable neck profile make it a great choice for players. They want to master fast-paced solos and power chords with ease. It’s a great option for anyone looking for the electric guitars.
As their skills advance, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio remains a reliable instrument. It also offers enough quality and versatility. It’s ideal for players who want a guitar that can grow with them, offering the quality and sound of more expensive models without breaking the bank.
Are electric guitars beginner friendly?
Absolutely, the best electric guitars for beginners can be very beginner-friendly. They generally have thinner necks and lighter strings, making them easier to play than acoustic guitars. When searching for the electric guitars, look for ones with a comfortable neck and body shape, as well as good build quality to ensure a positive learning experience. The right guitar will feel comfortable in your hands, encouraging you to practice more.
Is it OK to learn electric guitar first?
Starting with an electric guitar is perfectly fine. They are often easier on the fingers due to lighter strings and lower action, making them a great choice for beginners. Plus, they’re versatile, suitable for many music genres. Remember, the electric guitars should offer playability and quality to keep you motivated. Whichever you choose, the key is consistent practice and enjoying the learning process.
