For some, it’s a matter of simplicity and functionality, while for others, it’s about intricate designs and advanced features. This guide showcases what we believe are the best electric guitars available today.
It caters to a broad spectrum of prices, musical styles, and skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, our selection includes options from renowned manufacturers, ensuring quality and a trusted brand reputation.
We understand that the quest for the perfect electric guitar is not just about the instrument’s look or sound. It’s also about how it feels in your hands and responds to your playing style.
In this guide, we will guide you through various choices to help you find the electric guitars that align with your musical aspirations and budget. Our roundup covers a diverse range of instruments. It includes iconic guitar models that have shaped music history, as well as modern designs with high gain capabilities.
Our Top Picks
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Best For Beginners: Squier Bullet Mustang
Among the electric guitars for beginners, the Squier Bullet Mustang stands out for its user-friendly features and stylish design. This guitar is a great choice for new players.
It offers a comfortable playing experience without compromising on quality. Its lightweight body and smooth neck make it ideal for those just starting their musical journey, ensuring an enjoyable and hassle-free learning process.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Basswood
- Neck: Maple, “C” shape
- Scale Length: 24″ (610 mm)
- Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
- Frets: 22 Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: Two Humbuckers
- Bridge: 6 Saddle Modern Hardtail
- Weight: Approximately 5 lbs (2.27 kg)
Who Is It For?
The Squier Bullet Mustang is an excellent choice for those venturing into the world of electric guitars. It’s particularly well-suited for beginners. It offers an easy-to-play neck profile and a shorter scale length.
Its lightweight design makes it an ideal companion for young learners. It also suits players of smaller stature, ensuring comfort during long practice sessions.
The Squier Bullet Mustang is affordable. It’s a great entry-level option for those who are just starting out and are not ready to invest heavily.
Whether you’re exploring rock, pop, or indie genres, this guitar provides a solid foundation for developing your skills and musical expression.
Best For Versatility: Paul Reed Smith SE Custom 24
Among the electric guitars for versatility, the Paul Reed Smith SE Custom 24 stands out. This guitar is celebrated for its superb playability and stunning aesthetics.
It is a favorite among musicians of various genres. Its ability to adapt to different musical styles makes it a top choice for players looking for a versatile instrument.
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany with Maple Top
- Neck: Wide Thin Maple
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 24 Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: PRS 85/15 “S” Bridge & Neck
- Bridge: PRS Patented Tremolo
- Scale Length: 25 Inches
- Weight: Approximately 8.2 lbs
Who Is It For?
The Paul Reed Smith SE Custom 24 is an ideal choice for guitarists. It’s one of the electric guitars that can handle a wide array of musical styles. This guitar is for you whether you’re a gigging musician playing different genres nightly or a studio artist. It can adapt to various soundscapes.
Its versatile sound, combined with a comfortable neck profile, makes it suitable for both fast lead playing and rhythm work. The aesthetic appeal of the PRS SE Custom 24 also makes it a great guitar for those who value the visual aspect of their instrument.
It’s perfect for intermediate to advanced players who want a high-quality, versatile guitar without venturing into the high-end custom shop territory.
Best For Fast Playing: Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection
The Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection is for shredders and speed players. This guitar is a reissue of the classic 1987 model.
Rock and metal guitarists revere it for its fast playability and aggressive tone. It’s a perfect blend of vintage style and modern playability, making it a top choice for players looking to push their limits.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Basswood
- Neck Type: Super Wizard 5pc Maple/Walnut
- Fretboard: Maple with Black Dot Inlay
- Frets: 24 Jumbo
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- Pickups: V8 Bridge Humbucker, S1 Middle Single Coil, V7 Neck Humbucker
- Bridge: Edge Tremolo
- Nut Width: 1.692 inches
Who Is It For?
The Ibanez RG550 Genesis Collection is ideal for guitarists who prioritize speed and precision in their playing.
The Super Wizard neck is designed for lightning-fast playing, making it a favorite among shredders. The versatile pickup configuration allows for a wide range of tones. It can handle heavy riffs and screaming solos, catering to various musical styles.
This guitar is perfect for both stage performances and studio sessions, offering reliability and a high level of control.
Whether you’re an aspiring shredder or a seasoned guitarist looking for a fast and reliable instrument, the RG550 Genesis Collection is a superb choice.
Best For Playability: Fender Vintera 60s
Among the electric guitars for playability, the Fender Vintera ’60s Telecaster Modified stands out. This guitar, with its retro vibe and modern playability, is a perfect blend of past and present.
It’s designed for guitarists who appreciate the classic look and feel but demand contemporary performance. Its versatility makes it a top choice for players looking to express themselves across various musical genres.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Alder
- Neck Shape: ’60s “C”
- Scale Length: 25.5″ (64.77 cm)
- Fingerboard Material: Pau Ferro
- Frets: 21 Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: Two Hot ‘60s Tele Single-Coil
- Bridge: 3-Saddle American Vintage Strings-Through-Body Tele with Chrome Barrel Saddles
- Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone
Who Is It For?
The Fender Vintera ’60s Telecaster Modified is ideal for guitar enthusiasts. Yet, it has the functionality and versatility of modern instruments. It’s perfect for players who play a variety of musical styles, from blues and country to rock and indie.
The guitar’s comfortable neck profile and medium jumbo frets make it a great choice for both rhythm and lead playing. It offers ease of playability that’s essential for long practice sessions or performances.
Are you a gigging musician looking for a reliable and versatile instrument? Or are you a hobbyist who values quality and tradition? The Fender Vintera ’60s Telecaster Modified is a superb choice. It balances classic charm with contemporary demands.
Best For Heavy Tones: Charvel Pro-Mod DK22
The Charvel Pro-Mod DK22 stands out as one of the electric guitars for those seeking a blend of modern playability and classic aesthetics.
This guitar is a powerhouse, designed for guitarists who demand versatility and precision in their instrument. Its sleek design and high-quality construction make it a top choice for players.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Alder
- Neck Material: Caramelized Maple
- Fingerboard Radius: 12″-16″ Compound Radius
- Frets: 22 Jumbo
- Pickups: Seymour Duncan Custom Flat Strat SSL-6 Single-Coil
- Bridge: Gotoh Custom 510 Tremolo
- Controls: Volume, Tone (with No-Load Tone Control)
- Switching: 5-Way Blade Switch
Who Is It For?
The Charvel Pro-Mod DK22 is a dream for guitarists who crave a high output and dynamic range in their playing. It’s perfect for those who play a variety of musical styles, from blistering solos to rhythm parts with clarity and punch.
The fast neck profile and compound radius make it ideal for players who value speed and comfort. Whether you’re a gigging musician needing a reliable and versatile instrument, or a studio player looking for a guitar that can cover a wide sonic territory, the DK22 is a great guitar.
Its high-quality Seymour Duncan pickups and robust hardware make it a top choice among the electric guitars. It’s for players who demand the best in tone and playability.
Best For Rock & Blues: Squier Classic Vibe 60s
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s is especially for rock and blues. This guitar stands out because it combines vintage style with modern playability.
It captures the essence of the ’60s with its aesthetic appeal and rich, articulate sound. It’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate the classic vibe but desire contemporary reliability and performance.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Alder
- Neck Material: Maple
- Neck Shape: “C” Shape
- Scale Length: 25.5″ (648 mm)
- Fingerboard Material: Indian Laurel
- Frets: 21 Narrow Tall
- Pickups: Fender Designed Alnico Single-Coil
- Bridge: 6-Saddle Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo
Who Is It For?
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s is a dream come true for those who yearn for the golden era of rock and blues. It’s perfect for players who seek a guitar that delivers the nostalgic tones reminiscent of the 1960s. Yet, they want an instrument that can handle the demands of modern playing.
Whether you’re a beginner drawn to the classic rock sounds or a seasoned player looking for a reliable backup guitar that doesn’t compromise on tone, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s is your go-to choice.
Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of musical styles. It offers a warm, articulate sound that can cut through any mix. This makes it an excellent choice for gigging musicians and hobbyists alike.
Best Style: Gretsch G5222
This guitar, with its sleek design and robust build, captures the essence of rock ‘n’ roll spirit. It’s not just an instrument; it’s a statement piece that resonates with the soul of music.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Mahogany
- Body Finish: Gloss
- Scale Length: 24.6″ (625 mm)
- Neck Material: Mahogany
- Fingerboard Material: Laurel
- Number of Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo
- Nut Width: 1.685″ (42.8 mm)
- Pickups: Black Top Broad’Tron Humbuckers
Who Is It For?
The Gretsch G5222 is an ideal choice for those who love classic rock. It’s perfect for musicians who appreciate the rich, warm tones that mahogany bodies offer.
Those who desire a guitar that stands out on stage love its stylish gloss finish and distinctive body shape. The medium jumbo frets and comfortable neck profile make it suitable for players of various skill levels, from intermediate to professional.
Whether you’re jamming at home, recording in a studio, or performing live, the Gretsch G5222 offers a blend of aesthetic appeal and sonic versatility. This makes it a great fit for rock, blues, and even jazz enthusiasts. Its robust build quality ensures it’s a reliable companion for your musical journey.
It resonates with those who value both tradition and quality in their musical instruments.
Best from Epiphone: Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s
Among the electric guitars, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s stands out for its blend of classic design and modern craftsmanship. This guitar has a rich sound and comfortable playability.
It appeals to both beginners and experienced players. It’s a testament to Epiphone’s commitment to quality, offering a piece of music history without breaking the bank.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Mahogany
- Top: AA Flamed Maple
- Neck: Mahogany, Slim Taper 60s C
- Scale Length: 24.75″
- Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
- Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: ProBucker™ Humbuckers
- Nut: Graph Tech®
Who Is It For?
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard 60s is ideal for those who appreciate the iconic guitar tones and aesthetics of the classic Gibson Les Paul. However, they are looking for a more accessible option.
It’s perfect for guitarists who play a variety of musical styles, from blues and rock to even jazz, thanks to its versatile sound. The mahogany body and ProBucker™ humbuckers deliver a warm, rich tone that’s ideal for both rhythm and lead playing.
The medium jumbo frets and comfortable neck profile make it easy to play, suitable for both beginners and experienced players.
Best Lightweight: Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One
The Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One stands out among the electric guitars for those seeking a blend of modern design and classic rock sound.
With its unique aesthetics and versatile tone, it’s a top choice for guitarists who want to make a statement both visually and sonically.
Specifications:
- Body Material: Alder
- Neck Material: Roasted Maple
- Scale Length: 25.5″
- Fret Count: 22
- Pickup Configuration: Dual Railhammer Billy Corgan Z-One Humbuckers
- Bridge Type: Wilkinson WVS50 IIK Tremolo
- Nut Material: Boneite
- Weight: Approximately 7.75 lbs
Who Is It For?
The Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One is an ideal choice for guitarists. It stands out in the realm of the electric guitars. It’s perfect for players who value both aesthetics and versatility in their instrument.
The guitar’s modern design and reliable hardware make it suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from rock to indie, and even jazz. Its lightweight and comfortable playability appeal to both gigging musicians and studio artists.
The unique tone of the Railhammer Billy Corgan Z-One pickups offers a rich and dynamic sound palette, making it a great fit for creative guitarists who like to explore different genres and sounds.
Whether you’re performing on stage or recording in a studio, the Reverend Billy Corgan Z-One is designed to inspire and elevate your musical expression.
Does guitar size matter?
When shopping for the electric guitars, size does matter, but it’s more about comfort and playability than sound. Electric guitars come in various sizes and shapes, so it’s important to find one that feels right in your hands.
A guitar that’s too large or small can be challenging to play. The key is to try different sizes to see which one fits your body and playing style. This way, you’ll enjoy playing more and avoid any unnecessary strain on your hands or posture.
How much should I spend on an electric guitar?
The amount to spend on an electric guitar varies based on your needs and budget. You don’t need to break the bank to get one of the best electric guitars. For beginners, a modestly priced guitar is a smart choice, as it allows you to learn without a huge investment.
Intermediate and advanced players might consider higher-end models for better quality and features. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always mean a better guitar, so it’s wise to shop around and try different guitars within your budget.
What I Wish I Knew Before I Got The Electric Guitar?
- Playability Over Price: Don’t focus solely on the price. A guitar’s playability and comfort are more important.
- Sound Matters: The electric guitars offer a range of sounds. Know what sound you’re looking for and choose a guitar that delivers it.
- Maintenance and Upkeep: Understand the maintenance required. Good guitars need care to stay in top condition.
- Invest in Accessories: Invest in quality accessories like amps and pedals, as they greatly enhance the guitar’s performance.
- Future Needs: Consider how the guitar will serve your future needs. The electric guitars should grow with you as your skills advance.
- Seek Advice: Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced players. Their insights can guide you to the electric guitars for your specific needs.
