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A Guide to the Best Budget Electric Guitars in 2024
The best budget guitars cost between $200$ and $1000$. They refrain from incorporating luxury materials and components, choosing to invest in the bits that matter most to a guitarist.
Not definable as budget electric guitars or high-end ones – these are the best value-for-money guitars. Let’s find out which guitars earn the title cream of the crop.
Have you ever fancied 12-string guitars? Check out some of the 12-string guitars that made their mark in history.
Our Top Picks
Choosing the right guitar can be a pivotal decision for any musician. Different guitars have different qualities, but our top picks from the list — the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster, Epiphone SG, and Yamaha Pacifica — stand out for several compelling reasons:
Squier Classic ’50s Stratocaster
Squier guitars, particularly models like the Classic Vibe series, offer an exceptional blend of affordability and quality. They provide beginners and budget-conscious players with the authentic Fender experience, including classic designs and tones.
Epiphone SG
The Epiphone SG brings the iconic Gibson SG’s legendary rock and roll vibe within reach of a broader audience. It’s a versatile instrument that excels in genres ranging from blues and rock to metal, making it a favorite among players looking for a guitar with a rich history and a bold, assertive sound.
Yamaha Pacifica
The Yamaha Pacifica series, particularly the PAC112V, is renowned for its outstanding versatility, playability, and value for money. With its HSS pickup configuration, the Pacifica can navigate from clean and mellow to gritty and aggressive, making it suitable for virtually any genre.
1. Epiphone Les Paul Special-I Limited-Edition Electric Guitar – 200$
This is it if you want a low-cost guitar that shreds a lot. Designed for beginners and players on a budget, this guitar maintains the classic Les Paul aesthetics and tone, albeit with some modifications to keep costs down. This limited-edition model combines classic features with modern touches, making it an attractive option as the best electric guitar.

Key Features
Mahogany Neck with SlimTaper™ Profile
The mahogany neck offers warmth and sustenance, while the SlimTaper™ profile is comfortable for players with smaller hands or those who prefer a thinner neck.
Double-Cutaway Basswood Body
The contoured basswood body balances affordability and good tonal character, making it lightweight and comfortable for playing.
Nickel Hardware
The nickel hardware adds a touch of modern elegance and complements the worn finish.
Pros & Cons of Epiphone Les Paul Special-I Limited-Edition Electric Guitar
Pros
- The guitar produces a robust, warm tone that punches above its weight class for its price range.
- The vintage-style worn finish makes it appealing to players who prefer a guitar with character.
- Compared to traditional Les Paul models, the Special-I is relatively lightweight, making it easier to handle for extended playing sessions.
Cons
- Compared to higher-end Les Pauls, this Epiphone model is a simple guitar with easy construction methods and materials.
2. Ibanez GRX70QA Electric Guitar – 200$

If you are looking at guitars under 500$, this one is the best cheap guitar. Known for its striking appearance and versatile sound capabilities, the GRX70QA is a popular beginner guitar famous for intermediate players who seek the quality and playability Ibanez is known for. I believe it’s one of the best budget guitars on this list.
Key Features
Medium frets
These frets are a good middle ground, offering easy playing for both chording and single-note playing.
T106 tremolo bridge
This bridge allows for whammy bar effects and string bending.
Infinity R humbuckers
These Ibanez-designed passive humbuckers provide high output and distortion, which is ideal for rock and metal music.
Pros & Cons of Ibanez GRX70QA Electric Guitar
Pros
- Visual Appeal.
- One of the best guitars on a budget.
- Versatile enough for various rock and metal tones.
Cons
- Poplar body may not resonate as richly as mahogany or other tonewoods used in more expensive guitars.
3. Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 – 200$
The Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 Electric Guitar is one of the best cheap guitars. It’s a budget-friendly version of the iconic SG model, known for its distinctive shape, rich tone, and history of being played by legendary musicians. This one is one of the best value-for-money guitars in the affordable guitar bracket.

Key features
Controls Knobs
Simple yet effective, the guitar has a master volume and master tone control, along with a 3-way pickup selector switch, allowing for easy tonal adjustments.
Rosewood fingerboard with 22 medium jumbo frets
The rosewood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable, and the medium jumbo frets are ideal for fast playing.
Pros & Cons of Epiphone SG Special Satin E1
Pros
- The blend of the neck and middle creates a beautiful modern Strat-like mix.
- Fantastic entry-level guitar.
- Versatile pickups
- Reliable hardware
- Available in any guitar store.
Cons
- May not be the best choice for clean tones
4. Yamaha PAC012DLX Electric Guitar – 220$

Yamaha PAC012DLX Pacifica Series HSS Deluxe Electric Guitar is one of the best cheap electric guitars 2024 for Aspiring Players. The Yamaha PAC012DLX Pacifica Series HSS Deluxe Electric Guitar in Vintage Sunburst is designed for aspiring musicians seeking a versatile, comfortable, and well-made instrument. It is one of the best value guitars on the market for money.
It boasts a classic HSS pickup configuration, a comfortable neck profile, and features that enhance playability and tone shaping.
Key features
Lightweight Agathis body
Offers good resonance while remaining comfortable for extended playing sessions.
C-shaped maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
Provides a familiar and comfortable playing experience.
HSS pickup configuration
It features a bridge humbucker for powerful tones and single coils in the middle and neck positions for brighter chime sounds.
Pros & Cons of Yamaha PAC012DLX
Pros
- The PAC112V offers features and quality often found in more expensive guitars, making it fantastic value for money.
- Thanks to its HSS pickup configuration and coil tap function, this guitar can cover various genres, from jazz and blues to rock and metal.
- The Old Violin Sunburst finish, combined with the quality construction, gives this guitar a premium look and feel.
Cons
- May not have the same level of detail or premium materials as more expensive models.
5. Yamaha PAC112V Electric Guitar – 330$

Yamaha is one of the best guitar brands in the guitar world. The PAC112V exemplifies this reputation just as well. It’s excellent for beginner and intermediate guitarists seeking a versatile, well-made, and budget-friendly instrument. It boasts classic features alongside modern touches, making it a compelling option for various playing styles.
Key Features
Maple Neck and Rosewood Fingerboard
The bolt-on maple neck and a rosewood fingerboard offer a smooth playing experience. The neck’s profile and the fingerboard’s radius are designed to accommodate both rhythm and lead guitar work comfortably.
Vintage-Style Tremolo
The PAC112V features a vintage-style tremolo bridge, allowing for expressive vibrato effects while maintaining tuning stability.
Quality Hardware
Yamaha’s attention to detail extends to the PAC112V’s hardware, including reliable die-cast tuners and a block saddle for enhanced sustain and intonation.
Pros & Cons of Yamaha PAC112V Electric Guitar
Pros
- Suitable for various genres, from rock and blues to pop and country.
- Thanks to The lightweight alder body and C-shaped maple neck, the guitar feels comfortable for extended sessions.
- The H-S-S pickup configuration and coil-split functionality offer a diverse sonic palette.
Cons
- While offering bright and clear tones, the single-coil pickups may introduce some noise, particularly in high-gain settings, which is familiar with this type of pickup.
- The vintage-style vibrato bridge may not be suitable for extreme whammy bar effects.
If you plan to buy any of these guitars, you need to store them properly, so we suggest you check out our list of appropriate guitar stands.
6. Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster Electric Guitar – 430$
The Squier Classic Vibe 50s Jazzmaster is outstanding as an offset guitar. It pays homage to the iconic Fender Stratocasters of the 1950s. This great guitar is part of Squier’s Classic Vibe series, which has been highly praised for its ability to blend vintage aesthetics with modern playability.

Key features
Vintage-Inspired Design
This vintage guitar features a design reminiscent of the 1950s Stratocasters, including a vintage-tint gloss neck finish and a classic body shape that has become synonymous with the Stratocaster name.
Alnico Single-Coil Pickups
It is equipped with three single-coil pickups that deliver the bright, clear tones characteristic of ’50s Stratocasters, suitable for various music genres.
Maple Neck and Fingerboard
The guitar features a maple neck and fingerboard, contributing to its bright tone and smooth playability.
Versatility
The ML3 Pro Modern features a five-way pickup selector switch, allowing players to access various tonal options, making it a versatile instrument for different musical genres.
Vintage-Style Hardware
From the tuning machines to the synchronized tremolo bridge, the Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster hardware is designed to replicate the look and feel of vintage instruments.
Remember that these elements will influence the instrument’s tone before it’s further shaped by the amp or effects pedals.
Pros & Cons of Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster
Pros
- Compared to its Fender counterpart, the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster offers excellent value for money.
- The guitar’s classic looks and finishes add a touch of nostalgia and timeless style.
- Despite its budget-friendly price, the guitar benefits from Squier’s commitment to quality, with solid construction and reliable hardware.
Cons
- While decent, some players might find the stock pickups lacking in refinement and may desire an upgrade for a more premium sound.
7. Ibanez Steve Vai Signature JEMJR – 499$
The Ibanez Steve Vai Signature JEMJR is a budget-friendly iteration of the iconic JEM series, designed in collaboration with virtuoso guitarist Steve Vai. Despite its more affordable price point, it maintains many features and design elements that make the JEM series legendary.

Key features
Steve Vai’s Signature Design
Like its higher-end JEM counterparts, the JEMJR retains the instantly recognizable “Monkey Grip” handle in the body and the “Lion’s Claw” routing beneath the tremolo bridge.
Wizard III Neck
The JEMJR features a slim and fast Wizard III maple neck, which makes it exceptionally playable and perfect for Vai’s intricate playing style.
HSH Pickup Configuration
Equipped with Ibanez’s Quantum pickups, this guitar offers a versatile tonal palette, from clear and crisp single-coil sounds to powerful humbucking tones.
Double-Locking Tremolo System
The double-locking tremolo bridge ensures precise tuning stability even during aggressive dive bombs and whammy bar antics.
Vibrant Finishes
It has various striking finishes, including White, Pink, and Yellow, showcasing Steve Vai’s flamboyant aesthetic.
Affordability
The JEMJR allows players of various skill levels to own a piece of the Steve Vai legacy without the high price tag associated with many signature models.
Pros and Cons of The Ibanez Steve Vai Signature JEMJR
Pros
- One of the most affordable signature guitars
- Locking nut and bridge
- Combination of ceramic and alnico pickups
- Tremolo bridge
Cons
- Not suitable for thick gauge strings
- The long 25.5” scale length may not be to everyone’s liking
8. ESP LTD TE-200 – 500$
The ESP LTD TE-200 is a budget-friendly electric guitar with a classic design and modern features. Priced around $500, it is part of ESP’s LTD series, known for delivering quality instruments at affordable prices.

Key features
Classic Design
The TE-200 boasts a timeless single-cutaway design reminiscent of vintage “T-style” guitars, which are known for their bright and articulate tones.
Seymour Duncan Pickups
The model is equipped with a set of high-quality Seymour Duncan humbuckers. It provides a versatile tonal range, from crisp cleans to powerful overdriven tones.
Comfortable Playability
The guitar features a bolt-on maple neck, a comfortable “U” shape profile, and a 24-fret fingerboard, ensuring smooth and effortless playability.
Tune-O-Matic Bridge
The Tune-O-Matic bridge and stop tailpiece contribute to excellent sustain and precise intonation. Consequently, there is rock-solid tuning stability.
Variety of Finishes
The TE-200 comes in various finishes, including classic sunburst and solid colors.
Pros and Cons of The ESP LTD TE-200
Pros
- Best pickups available for models at this price range
- Stable tuning and intonation
- Thin U Neck contour
Cons
- Fixed bridge and bolt-on neck
9. Epiphone Les Paul Studio – 550$
The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is undoubtedly one of the best budget guitars ever. A versatile electric guitar model is known for its affordability and quality craftsmanship. This guitar maintains the timeless design and powerful tones that have made the Les Paul a legendary instrument.

Key features
Classic Les Paul Design
The Les Paul Studio features the iconic single-cutaway body shape with a mahogany and carved maple top. The body is bordered.
Alnico Humbuckers
Equipped with Alnico Classic Pro humbuckers and ceramic single-coil pickups, it produces a wide range of tones, from warm and mellow to fat and robust, suitable for various musical styles.
SlimTaper Neck Profile
The mahogany neck with a SlimTaper “D” profile ensures a comfortable and fast-playing experience, making it accessible to players of all levels.
Affordable Price
It’s one of the best metal guitars you can buy cheaply.
Variety of Finishes
The guitar is available in attractive finishes, allowing players to choose a style that suits their preferences.
Pros and Cons of The Epiphone Les Paul Studio
Pros
- Easily navigable SlimTaper neck
- Rich tone and sustain
- Great pickups for the price point
Cons
- Heavier in weight than similar-shaped models
10. Epiphone Les Paul Pro IV – 550$
The Epiphone Les Paul Traditional Pro IV is a limited-edition electric guitar that captures the essence of the iconic Les Paul design with some modern upgrades. It’s an excellent option for guitarists who want a versatile and well-made instrument at a more affordable price.

Key features
Classic Les Paul Design
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard Pro IV maintains the iconic Les Paul silhouette, known for its single-cutaway body that looks timeless and provides easy access to the upper frets.
Body & Top
Constructed with Epiphone Les Paul’s unique design, the guitar contributes to the guitar’s sustain and rich, warm tones, complemented by a maple veneer top for added clarity and resonance.
ProBucker Pickups
Equipped with Epiphone’s ProBucker pickups, which aim to replicate the vintage Gibson PAF (Patent Applied For) humbucker sound, offering a range of tones from warm and mellow to bright and aggressive.
Coil-Tapping Capability
A standout feature is the coil-tapping function, which allows players to split the humbucker pickups into single coil pickups with a simple push/pull control, vastly increasing the guitar’s tonal versatility. Also, full-size pickups are easy to replace.
Looking for Guitar cables, a tube amp, or a guitar stand? Check out our list of must-have guitar accessories for every guitarist here!
Pros and Cons of The Epiphone Les Paul Pro IV
Pros
- Offers many features typically found on higher-end guitars at a more affordable price.
- The mahogany body, Alnico Classic pickups, and traditional design deliver the warm, rich sound Les Pauls is known for.
- Thanks to its Alnico Classic PRO™ pickups and coil-tapping feature, this guitar can cover various genres, from blues and jazz to rock and metal.
Cons
- Like most Les Paul models, it can be heavier, which might not be comfortable for all players during extended playing sessions.
- While generally well set up from the factory, some units may require additional setup for optimal playability, a common aspect of more budget-friendly instruments.
- Being a limited-edition model, finding one might be challenging depending on stock and location.
11. ESP LTD EC-256FM – 600$
The ESP LTD EC-256FM is a versatile, well-crafted electric guitar known for its outstanding features. Its balanced blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance caters to a wide range of players.

Key features
Build Quality
The EC-256FM boasts a solid mahogany body and a set-in mahogany neck, contributing to its warm and resonant tone.
Flamed Maple Top
Its eye-catching flamed maple top enhances the guitar’s appearance and adds a touch of brightness to the sound.
Pickups
Equipped with ESP-designed LH-150 humbuckers, this guitar delivers a powerful, articulate tone suitable for various music genres. Regarding adaptability, this pickup will allow you to cover much ground.
Hardware
It features high-quality hardware, including a TOM bridge and tailpiece, and reliable tuning stability with ESP-designed tuners.
Playability
The EC-256FM offers comfortable playability with its thin U-shaped neck profile and a 22-fret rosewood fingerboard.
Aesthetic Appeal
Its classic single-cutaway design, abalone inlays, and elegant finish options make it an attractive instrument on stage.
Versatility
Whether you’re into rock, blues, even metal, or any other genre, the EC-256FM guitar is an excellent option for all these genres.
Pros and Cons of The ESP LTD EC-256FM
Pros
- Sturdy mahogany body and neck
- 24.75” scale length
- Comfortable Thin U-neck contour
Cons
- ESP Humbuckers that don’t deliver the clearest of tones
12. PRS SE STANDARD 24 – 750$

The PRS SE Standard 24 is a popular electric guitar known for its accessibility, impressive build quality, and versatile tonal capabilities. As part of the PRS SE (Student Edition) series, it offers musicians a chance to own a reliable and high-quality instrument without breaking the bank among the best budget guitars.
Key features
Design
It features a classic double-cutaway design with a solid mahogany body, contributing to its resonant and warm tone.
Pickups
Equipped with PRS-designed 85/15 “S” humbuckers, it delivers a broad spectrum of sounds, from sweet and straightforward to powerful and dynamic.
Playability
The comfortable wide-fat set maple neck and 24 frets on a rosewood or ebony fingerboard offer easy playability. The tremolo bridge completes the package.
Versatility
With a 3-way pickup selector and dual volume and tone controls, the SE Standard 24 offers a wide range of tonal options, ideal for various musical genres.
Finishes
PRS offers a variety of finishes like Vintage Cherry or Translucent Blue to cater to individual aesthetics.
Pros and Cons of PRS SE STANDARD 24
Pros
- All mahogany body construction
- Wide-fat neck shapes
- Cheaper than the almost identical SE Custom 24
- 24 Frets in all its full glory
Cons
- Lower nut quality than the SE Custom series
- Visually less aesthetic than SE Customs
13. Fender Player Telecaster – 800$
The Fender Player Telecaster is a classic and beloved electric guitar in Fender’s lineup, renowned for its iconic design, timeless sound, and affordability. It’s a modern interpretation of the legendary Telecaster, maintaining its legendary reputation while offering some contemporary upgrades.

Key features
Timeless Telecaster Design
The Player Telecaster features an instantly recognizable single-cutaway solid body shape. It offers a comfortable playing experience and the vintage aesthetic that has made the Telecaster famous.
Alnico Pickups
Equipped with a pair of Player Series Alnico 5 single-coil pickups, it delivers the signature Telecaster sound, known for its twangy and bright tones.
Modern “C” Shape Neck
The modern “C” shape maple neck with a 22-fret fingerboard ensures comfortable and smooth playability, perfect for a wide range of playing styles.
Top-Loading Bridge
The Telecaster’s traditional top-loading bridge and strings-through-body design contribute to its classic tone and sustain.
Variety of Finishes
The Player Telecaster is available in various finishes, from classic butterscotch and sunburst to modern and vibrant solid colors, allowing players to choose a style that suits their personality.
Pros and Cons of The Fender Player Telecaster
Pros
- Hand-crafted traditional tele body shape
- Modern C-shaped neck for extra playability
- Block steel bridge to enhance tone
Cons
- The differing fret number from vintage tele may not be liked by everyone
14. Epiphone Les Paul Custom – 800$
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom is a more affordable rendition of the iconic Gibson Les Paul Custom, allowing musicians to own a remarkable instrument without the premium price.

Key features
Iconic Les Paul Design
The Les Paul Custom features a well-known single-cutaway body shape, a mahogany body, and a maple top, offering a rich and sustainable tone.
Alnico Humbuckers
Equipped with Alnico Classic Pro humbuckers, this guitar delivers powerful, warm tones, perfect for rock, blues, and more. The bridge humbucker will surprise some; it’s hefty without being too mid-range heavy. While the coil-split sounds a little bland when played clean, with a distortion boost, it’s a pretty handy, nasty, and wiry rhythm voice.
SlimTaper Neck Profile
The mahogany neck with a SlimTaper “D” profile ensures comfortable playability and is suitable for various playing styles.
Bound Body and Neck
The Les Paul Custom is adorned with elegant binding on the body, neck, and headstock, adding a touch of sophistication to its appearance.
Finish
The Alpine White or Ebony finish, gold hardware, and ebony fretboard exude a timeless and striking visual appeal.
Pros and Cons of The Epiphone Les Paul Custom
Pros
- Great pickups for thick tones
- Flashy hardware finish
- Comes with a removable pickguard
Cons
- Wide 43mm nut might not be for everyone
15. Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 – 850$
The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20 is a part of Yamaha’s Revstar series, known for its unique blend of vintage aesthetics, modern features, and high-quality craftsmanship. This guitar is designed to appeal to players seeking a classic rock ‘n’ roll vibe with a contemporary touch.

Key features
Distinctive Design
The Revstar series showcases a bold and unconventional design inspired by vintage cafe racer motorcycles, which gives the guitar a standout and edgy appearance.
Body Construction
The RSS20 features a solid mahogany body that delivers a warm and resonant tone, with a maple top for added visual appeal.
Set-In Neck
The mahogany neck is set into the body for enhanced sustain and resonance. It’s shaped for comfortable playability, making it well-suited for various playing styles.
Humbucking Pickups
Equipped with two custom-designed Alnico V humbucking pickups, the RSS20 delivers a versatile range of tones, from warm and smooth to rich and powerful, making it ideal for rock, blues, and more.
TonePros AVT-II Bridge
This bridge ensures accurate intonation and excellent tuning stability, vital for precise performance.
Pros and Cons of The Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20
Pros
- Versatility in tone options due to the pickup nature
- Unique body shape that stands out
- Durable set-in neck
Cons
- May not go with everyone’s visual aesthetics
Conclusion
The lineup of budget guitars is impressive, proving you don’t need to splash loads of cash to get a quality instrument. From the versatile Yamaha PAC112V, rocking Squier vibes, to the Epiphone specials, there’s a guitar for every taste among the best electric guitars.
Finding the best cheap guitar for life is tough, but with so many popular guitars, it’s essential not to compromise on quality. Just focus on how the guitar feels to play and how flawlessly it plays. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a new addition without breaking the bank, these models prove that great guitars are accessible to everyone.
Best Budget Guitar FAQs
Any of the ones listed in the article can be, depending on your needs and preferences.
Acoustic guitars are more suited to complete beginners than electric guitars.
It’s perfectly fine to start learning on a low-end guitar. Higher-priced guitars are more focused on tones, there is not too big a gap in playability.
Yes, it is possible to learn the basics in two months. You can learn to strum chords and sing along in that timeframe. However, learning the instrument well is a never-ending journey.
The choice for the best budget guitar is up to you to make. Go through the list, and find the one that strikes the perfect balance between the features you want and your budget. No choice is a bad one there.
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