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10 Best Electric Guitars 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Yamaha FGX800C Solid Top Cutaway Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Dreadnought

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,454
Fretboard Material

Most important from
1999 reviews

Fretboard Material
The fretboard inlays are small, requiring adjustment to using side dots, but it's a minor inconvenience.

The Yamaha FGX800C is a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that stands out with its solid Sitka spruce top, offering a bright and resonant sound that many players will appreciate. The dreadnought size provides a rich and full-bodied tone, suitable for various musical styles. With its cutaway design, players can enjoy better access to higher frets, which can be particularly beneficial for lead playing or complex fingerstyle arrangements.

The nato back and sides, while not as high-end as some other tonewoods, still provide a warm and balanced sound, complemented by the rosewood fingerboard and bridge that add a touch of smoothness to the playability. The inclusion of a System 66 pickup, along with a 3-band EQ and adjustable mid-range frequency control, offers substantial sound shaping capabilities, making it a solid choice for both live performances and studio recording.

One potential downside could be its nato neck, which may not be as durable or offer the same tonal qualities as more premium neck materials like mahogany. However, the 25.5-inch scale length and adjustable truss rod ensure a comfortable playing experience, accommodating various string tensions and setups. Given its features and reasonable price, the Yamaha FGX800C is well-suited for intermediate players and gigging musicians looking for an affordable yet reliable acoustic-electric guitar. Its solid construction and user-friendly electronics make it a strong contender in its category, though it might not satisfy those seeking top-tier wood craftsmanship or advanced pickup systems. The natural color and design also appeal to traditionalists, completing its profile as a well-rounded instrument with broad appeal.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,454
Fretboard Material

Most important from
1999 reviews

Fretboard Material
The fretboard inlays are small, requiring adjustment to using side dots, but it's a minor inconvenience.
#2

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, 2-Color Sunburst with Matte Finish

Rating
10.0
Neck Profile
Pickups
Bridge Type

Most important from
1068 reviews

Neck Profile
The guitar arrived set to spec with smooth tuners, polished frets, and a comfortable neck shape.
Pickups
It sounds very good unplugged and the pickups are well-aligned, delivering classic Strat tones.
Bridge Type
The tremolo bridge is more for show unless you have the skill to use it properly.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster electric guitar stands out as an excellent choice for beginners seeking a reliable and comfortable instrument. With a lightweight poplar body and a comfortable 'C' shaped maple neck, this guitar is designed to be easy to handle and play. The laurel wood fretboard adds a smooth playing experience and durability.

The 25.5-inch scale length is standard for Stratocasters, ensuring familiar playability for those who may have played other Strat models. This guitar features three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching, allowing for a range of classic Stratocaster tones, from bright and sharp to warm and mellow. The tremolo bridge with a removable arm offers the flexibility for interesting string-bending effects, adding more versatility to your playing style.

The included Fender Play subscription provides access to a plethora of instructional videos, making it easier for beginners to learn and improve their skills. However, it's important to note that this guitar is right-hand oriented and may not be suitable for left-handed players. Additionally, while the poplar body is lightweight and easy to handle, it may not have the same resonance and tonal depth as some other more expensive tonewoods like alder or mahogany. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster offers great value, quality craftsmanship, and helpful learning resources, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking to start their musical journey.

Rating
10.0
Neck Profile
Pickups
Bridge Type

Most important from
1068 reviews

Neck Profile
The guitar arrived set to spec with smooth tuners, polished frets, and a comfortable neck shape.
Pickups
It sounds very good unplugged and the pickups are well-aligned, delivering classic Strat tones.
Bridge Type
The tremolo bridge is more for show unless you have the skill to use it properly.
#3

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit, Beginner Guitar Kit, with 2-Year Warranty, with Padded Gig Bag, Frontman 10G Amp, Strap, and More, Includes Free Lessons, Black

The Fender 6 String Electric Guitar Pack is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of electric guitars. This kit includes everything a new player might need, such as the Squier Debut Series Stratocaster guitar, a Frontman 10G amp, a padded gig bag, and even accessories like a strap, cable, picks, and a guitar stand. The iconic Stratocaster design is comfortable with a 'C' shaped neck and lightweight body, making it easy to play for extended periods, which is a great advantage for beginners.

The guitar features three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching, providing a variety of classic tones suitable for different music styles. Plus, the included subscription to Fender Play offers excellent online lessons, making it even easier for beginners to learn and practice at their own pace.

There are a few points to consider. While the guitar is well-built and sounds good for its price, some advanced players might find its components and sound quality somewhat limited compared to higher-end models. Additionally, the amp, while functional, may not be powerful enough for larger settings or performances. The weight of the package (29.3 pounds) might also be cumbersome for younger players or those looking for portability.

Despite these drawbacks, the Fender 6 String Electric Guitar Pack stands out in the beginner electric guitar kit category, making it an appealing option for both kids and adults who are just starting their musical journey.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Guitars

Choosing the right electric guitar can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience, especially with the wide variety of options available. The key to finding the perfect guitar is understanding your own needs and preferences, and then matching those with the specifications of the guitar. Here are some important specs to consider when shopping for an electric guitar, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Body TypeThe body type of an electric guitar affects its sound, weight, and comfort. There are three main types: solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. Solid body guitars are the most common and are known for their sustain and resistance to feedback, making them ideal for rock and metal. Semi-hollow body guitars offer a balance between the solid and hollow bodies, providing a warmer tone suitable for blues and jazz. Hollow body guitars have a rich, resonant sound but are more prone to feedback, making them great for jazz and clean tones. Choose a body type based on the genre of music you play and your comfort preferences.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar neck, which affects playability and comfort. Common profiles include C-shaped, U-shaped, and V-shaped. C-shaped necks are rounded and comfortable for most players, making them versatile. U-shaped necks are thicker and provide a solid grip, preferred by players with larger hands. V-shaped necks have a distinct ridge and are favored by players who like to rest their thumb on the back of the neck. Consider your hand size and playing style when choosing a neck profile.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance between the guitar's nut and the bridge, affecting string tension and tone. Common scale lengths are 24.75 inches (short scale) and 25.5 inches (long scale). Shorter scales have less string tension, making them easier to play and producing a warmer tone, suitable for blues and classic rock. Longer scales have more tension, resulting in a brighter tone and better note definition, ideal for genres like metal and modern rock. Choose a scale length that feels comfortable and suits your musical style.
PickupsPickups are the devices that capture the guitar's sound and convert it into an electrical signal. The two main types are single-coil and humbucker pickups. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear tone with a bit of a twang, making them great for genres like country, blues, and classic rock. Humbuckers have a thicker, warmer sound with higher output, reducing noise and feedback, perfect for rock, metal, and jazz. Some guitars come with a combination of both, offering versatility. Choose pickups based on the sound you prefer and the music you play.
Bridge TypeThe bridge type affects the guitar's tuning stability and the ability to perform certain techniques. There are two main types: fixed bridges and tremolo bridges. Fixed bridges offer better tuning stability and sustain, making them ideal for beginners and players who prefer a straightforward setup. Tremolo bridges allow for pitch bending and vibrato effects, adding expressiveness to your playing, but they can be more challenging to maintain. Choose a bridge type based on your playing style and maintenance preferences.
TonewoodsTonewoods refer to the types of wood used in the construction of the guitar, influencing its tone and resonance. Common tonewoods include alder, ash, mahogany, and maple. Alder and ash are often used for their balanced tone and good sustain, suitable for a variety of genres. Mahogany provides a warm, rich sound with excellent sustain, ideal for blues and rock. Maple is known for its bright, clear tone and is often used for necks and fingerboards. Consider the tonal characteristics of each wood and how they align with your musical preferences.
Fretboard MaterialThe fretboard material affects the feel and tone of the guitar. Common materials include rosewood, maple, and ebony. Rosewood fretboards have a warm, smooth feel and a slightly darker tone, making them popular for a wide range of genres. Maple fretboards offer a bright, snappy tone and a smooth playing surface, preferred by players who like a fast neck. Ebony fretboards are dense and smooth, providing a bright, articulate tone with excellent durability. Choose a fretboard material that feels comfortable and complements your playing style.

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