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10 Best Inexpensive Electric Guitars 2025 in the United States

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#1

Winner

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 a solid choice for beginners looking for an affordable electric guitar setup. This kit includes not only the Squier Debut Series Stratocaster but also essential accessories like an amp, gig bag, strap, cable, and more, making it a great all-in-one solution. The guitar’s comfortable 'C' shaped neck and lightweight poplar body enhance playability, which is particularly beneficial for newcomers. With three single-coil pickups and a 5-way switch, players can explore a variety of classic tones, catering to diverse musical styles.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. Though it’s designed for beginners, the quality of the included amp (Frontman 10G) may not satisfy more experienced players, as it tends to lack depth and richness in sound. Additionally, while the build materials like poplar and laurel are adequate for entry-level instruments, they might not match the resonance and tonal quality of higher-end guitars. Some users may also find the tremolo bridge challenging to use without proper setup or experience.

The inclusion of a free subscription to Fender Play is an excellent perk, providing valuable lessons and resources for honing skills, which can be especially encouraging for beginners. This guitar pack caters well to kids and adults just starting their guitar journey, offering a comprehensive setup at an accessible price. However, those looking for professional-level sound and features may need to consider investing in a higher-end model in the future.

#2

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

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is an excellent choice for beginners looking for an affordable and reliable instrument. One of its standout features is its comfortable 'C' shaped neck and lightweight body, making it easier for new players to handle. The guitar is built with quality materials, such as a laurel fingerboard and poplar body, ensuring durability while still being light enough for extended play sessions.

In terms of sound, the three single-coil pickups with a 5-way switch provide a versatile range of classic Strat tones, perfect for experimenting with different musical styles. The tremolo bridge adds extra fun, allowing for creative string-bending effects that can inspire players to explore more advanced techniques as they progress.

A significant advantage of this guitar is the inclusion of a free subscription to Fender Play. This resource offers thousands of instructional videos tailored for beginners, making it easier to learn and develop skills at your own pace. For anyone just starting out, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster is a well-rounded instrument that provides comfort, versatility, and valuable learning resources, making it a solid investment in your musical journey.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Neck Profile
The neck is comfortable and the frets are highly polished, making it a pleasure to play.
Pickups
The pickups sound great and provide a classic Strat tone that many players appreciate.
#3

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard

The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of electric guitars. Its thin and lightweight poplar body makes it easy to handle, especially for beginners or those who play for extended periods. The 3-color sunburst finish adds a classic look, and the laurel wood fretboard provides a smooth playing experience, complemented by the comfortable 'C'-shaped neck made of maple. This neck profile is particularly beginner-friendly, offering a balance between comfort and speed.

The guitar features three Squier single-coil pickups arranged in an S-S-S configuration, which offers a versatile range of tones suitable for various music genres, from rock to blues. The 2-point tremolo bridge allows for expressive playing techniques, although it may require some tuning stability management for more vigorous use. The sealed die-cast tuning machines with split shafts ensure reasonable tuning stability and ease of string changes.

With a scale length of 25.5 inches, the guitar provides a familiar feel for those accustomed to Fender Stratocasters. While the nickel steel strings are durable, some players might prefer swapping them out for a different set to better suit their playing style. The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster combines essential features and decent build quality, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate players looking for a reliable and affordable instrument.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Body Type
The lightweight body is comfortable to handle and adds a nice vibrancy to playing.
Neck Profile
The neck is incredibly smooth and easy to play on, with perfectly polished frets and no sharp edges.
Pickups
Even though the pickups are a bit hot, they work fine and can be upgraded later if needed.
Bridge Type
The bridge is well-made and allows for easy intonation adjustments, enhancing overall playability.

Buying Guide for the Best Inexpensive Electric Guitars

Choosing an inexpensive electric guitar can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially if you're just starting out or looking for a budget-friendly option. The key is to find a guitar that suits your playing style, feels comfortable, and sounds good to you. Here are some important specifications to consider when making your choice.
Body TypeThe body type of an electric guitar affects its sound and playability. 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 versatile for various music genres. Semi-hollow and hollow body guitars have a warmer tone and are often preferred for jazz, blues, and rockabilly. If you're a beginner, a solid body guitar is a safe and versatile choice.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar's neck. Common profiles include C-shaped, U-shaped, and V-shaped. A C-shaped neck is rounded and comfortable for most players, making it a good choice for beginners. U-shaped necks are thicker and may be preferred by players with larger hands, while V-shaped necks have a more pronounced ridge and can be comfortable for thumb-over playing styles. Choose a neck profile that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your playing style.
PickupsPickups are the electronic components that capture the sound of the strings and convert it into an electrical signal. There are two main types: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear tone and are often used in genres like rock, blues, and country. Humbuckers have a thicker, warmer sound and are great for heavier music styles like metal and hard rock. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose pickups that match that sound.
Scale LengthScale length is the distance between the guitar's nut and the bridge. Common scale lengths are 24.75 inches and 25.5 inches. A shorter scale length (24.75 inches) results in lower string tension, making the strings easier to bend and play, which can be beneficial for beginners. A longer scale length (25.5 inches) provides a tighter feel and can enhance clarity and brightness in the guitar's tone. Choose a scale length that feels comfortable and suits your playing style.
Fretboard MaterialThe fretboard material can affect the feel and tone of the guitar. Common materials include rosewood, maple, and ebony. Rosewood fretboards are smooth and warm-sounding, making them a popular choice for many players. Maple fretboards have a brighter tone and a slick feel, while ebony fretboards are dense and provide a fast, smooth playing surface with a balanced tone. Consider the feel and sound you prefer when choosing a fretboard material.
Bridge TypeThe bridge type can influence the guitar's tuning stability and playability. There are two main types: fixed bridges and tremolo bridges. Fixed bridges provide better tuning stability and are easier to maintain, making them a good choice for beginners. Tremolo bridges allow you to create pitch variations and vibrato effects but can be more challenging to set up and keep in tune. If you're just starting out, a fixed bridge is a practical and reliable option.

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