Choosing the right electric guitar as a beginner can feel overwhelming. The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster stands out for its exceptional quality among entry-level guitars. This article breaks down the top 10 best electric guitars that are perfect for beginners, detailing what makes each one a great choice.

Dive in and discover your first six-string friend!

Key Takeaways

• The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster is highly recommended for beginners due to its superior craftsmanship, which rivals more expensive models, and rich tone.
• Beginner – friendly features to look for in an electric guitar include versatility across genres, quality pickups for clear sound, comfortable neck profile, solid construction, and reliable tuning hardware.
• Yamaha offers the Pacifica 112V model that is well-regarded for its playability and reliability while providing newcomers with a budget-friendly option known for durability.
• Epiphone provides beginner models like the Les Paul Studio and SG Standard which are praised for their warm tones ideal for rock and blues as well as being accessible without compromising quality.
• Accessories such as a good amplifier, durable cables, picks suited to your style of play, an accurate tuner, and a comfortable strap are essential gear that will enhance your experience as you learn on your new electric guitar.

Top 10 Best Electric Guitars for Beginners

From Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster to Epiphone SG Standard, these top 10 electric guitars for beginners offer quality and value. Each model is beginner-friendly and designed to provide an easy learning experience for novice players.

Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster

The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster offers a premium experience, stepping above the usual entry-level electric guitars. Its design echoes the iconic Fender Stratocasters of the 1950s, favored by many budding guitarists for their timeless look and sound.

With quality craftsmanship that rivals more expensive models, this beginner-friendly electric guitar brings a rich tone and comfortable playability to those just starting out. The smooth neck and easy action make it simple for new players to form chords and navigate the fretboard.

Embrace rock ‘n’ roll history with this introductory electric guitar that doesn’t skimp on authentic vibe or sound. The three single-coil pickups give you a variety of tones to explore, from crisp highs to warm mids, making it versatile enough for any style you’re eager to dive into.

As an affordable option in the Fender Squier line-up, the ’50s Strat is perfect for newcomers wanting reliable performance without breaking the bank.

Yamaha Pacifica 112V

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is a versatile and well-built electric guitar that is highly recommended for beginners. With its quality construction and affordable price, the PAC112V offers new players the perfect combination of playability and reliability.

Featuring a comfortable neck profile, smooth tremolo system, and high-quality pickups, this guitar provides a wide range of tones suitable for various music genres. The Yamaha Pacifica 112V stands out as an excellent entry-level electric guitar option for those just starting out on their musical journey.

Moving forward to “PRS SE Standard 24-08“, let’s delve into another great option for beginner electric guitars.

PRS SE Standard 24-08

The PRS SE Standard 24-08 is a popular choice for beginner electric guitarists due to its quality and playability. It offers comfortable playability and a professional feel, making it suitable for new players as well as more experienced musicians.

This model is often praised for its versatile sound and reliable performance, providing an excellent option for those just starting out in their musical journey. With its combination of quality construction and affordable price, the PRS SE Standard 24-08 stands out as an excellent entry-level electric guitar that aspiring guitarists should consider.

Next up: “Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Left-Handed”

Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Left-Handed

The Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Left-Handed is a suitable choice for left-handed beginners due to its comfortable playability and classic design. This guitar features a solid body construction, providing a rich, resonant tone that is perfect for various playing styles.

With its dual single-coil pickups, the Squier Affinity Series Telecaster delivers clear, bright tones ideal for beginners looking to explore different genres. The affordable price point of this left-handed electric guitar makes it an attractive option for novice players seeking quality and value in their first instrument.

Aspiring left-handed guitarists will appreciate the smooth-playing neck and versatile sound of the Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Left-Handed, making it an excellent entry-level electric guitar option.

Squier Bullet Mustang

The Squier Bullet Mustang is a popular choice for beginner electric guitarists due to its compact size and comfortable playability. With a lightweight body, it’s easy to handle for novice players.

The dual humbucking pickups deliver a versatile sound, making it suitable for various music styles. The 24″ scale length and C-shaped neck provide a smooth playing experience, perfect for those just starting out on their musical journey.

As an entry-level electric guitar option, the Squier Bullet Mustang presents excellent value without compromising on quality. Its affordable price tag makes it an accessible choice for new players looking for an easy-to-use electric guitar that provides great sound and comfort while learning the ropes of playing the instrument.

Epiphone Les Paul Studio

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is a popular choice among beginners for its classic design and versatile sound. With its mahogany body and pair of Alnico Classic humbucker pickups, the guitar delivers warm, rich tones suitable for various music genres such as rock and blues.

The slim-tapered neck profile provides comfortable playability for new players, while the quality hardware ensures reliable performance. As an entry-level electric guitar option, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio offers a balance between affordability and high-quality construction, making it an ideal choice for those just starting out on their musical journey.

Known as one of the best electric guitars for newcomers, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio features a timeless aesthetic combined with functional attributes that cater to beginners’ needs.

Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20

The Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 is a solid choice for beginners seeking an electric guitar with timeless style and versatile playability. With its sleek design and high-quality construction, this Yamaha model offers a beginner-friendly experience without compromising on performance.

The RSE20 features a comfortable neck profile, making it easy for new players to get accustomed to fretting chords and soloing. Its dynamic tone makes it suitable for various music genres, while the durable hardware ensures reliability during practice sessions and performances.

With its well-rounded attributes, the Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 stands out as an excellent option for novice guitarists looking to embark on their musical journey.

Gretsch G2420 Streamliner

The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner offers a classic design and versatile sound, making it a top choice for beginners. With its hollow body and Broad’Tron pickups, this guitar delivers warm tones ideal for various music genres.

Its comfortable playability and smooth fretboard make it easy for new players to learn on. The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is an entry-level electric guitar that combines quality construction with affordability, earning praise from both beginners and experienced musicians alike.

The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner is known for its vintage appeal, offering a stylish yet straightforward option for novice guitarists. This beginner-friendly electric guitar provides excellent value by delivering rich tones at an accessible price point.

Epiphone SG Standard

Transitioning from the versatile Gretsch G2420 Streamliner, the Epiphone SG Standard offers a classic, no-nonsense design that makes it a great choice for beginner electric guitarists.

With its solid mahogany body and neck, this entry-level electric guitar provides a warm and resonant tone, ideal for rock and heavy metal styles. The powerful humbucking pickups deliver a punchy sound that easily cuts through the mix, while the slim-taper neck profile ensures comfortable playability for novice players.

The Epiphone SG Standard also features an iconic double-cutaway design, giving beginners easy access to the upper frets for soloing and lead playing.

Squier Sonic Stratocaster HT H

Transitioning from the Epiphone SG Standard to the Squier Sonic Stratocaster HT H, this specific model is ideal for beginners seeking a quality instrument that provides excellent value.

Boasting a stylish design and versatile sound options, the Squier Sonic Stratocaster features a lightweight body that facilitates comfortable playing. With its smooth fretboard and well-built hardware, this guitar ensures an enjoyable experience for new players as they explore different music styles and techniques.

Equipped with single-coil pickups, the Squier Sonic Stratocaster delivers clear and distinct tones suitable for diverse musical genres. Its user-friendly controls make it easy for beginners to experiment with various sounds while honing their skills.

Buying Advice for Beginner Electric Guitars

When looking for a beginner electric guitar, consider the body shape and wood, understand pickups and hardware, and factor in budget considerations to find the best option for your needs – read on to discover more helpful tips!

What to look for in a beginner electric guitar

When choosing a beginner electric guitar, consider the following factors:

1. Versatility: Look for a guitar that can handle various music genres and styles, offering flexibility as your skills grow.
2. Quality pickups: Opt for a guitar with high-quality pickups that produce clear and balanced tones, enhancing your playing experience.
3. Comfortable neck: Seek a guitar with a comfortable neck profile that suits your hand size, allowing for easier fretting and chord changes.
4. Solid construction: Choose a well-built guitar with durable materials to ensure longevity and stability as you learn and progress.
5. Affordability: Consider your budget and look for an electric guitar that offers good value for its price while meeting your beginner needs.
6. Brand reputation: Research reputable brands known for producing reliable and beginner-friendly electric guitars to make an informed choice.
7. Playability: Test the instrument’s playability to ensure it feels comfortable in your hands and is easy to control when learning new techniques.

The importance of guitar body shape and wood

The guitar body shape and wood type play a crucial role in determining the instrument’s tone and resonance. Different body shapes, such as solid or semi-hollow, can impact the sound produced by the electric guitar.

Additionally, the choice of wood, whether it be mahogany, alder, or ash, contributes to the overall tonal characteristics of the instrument. Understanding these elements allows beginners to select an electric guitar that aligns with their preferred sound profile and playing style.

Quality woods like mahogany are known for producing warm tones with good sustain, making them suitable for various music genres. On the other hand, alder is revered for its balanced and resonant qualities while ash offers bright tones with excellent clarity and definition.

Understanding pickups and hardware

Moving on from the importance of guitar body shape and wood, it’s crucial for beginner electric guitar players to understand pickups and hardware. Pickups are vital components that capture the strings’ vibrations and convert them into electrical signals, which are then sent to an amplifier.

Different types of pickups, such as single-coil and humbucker pickups, produce varying tones, allowing beginners to experiment with different sound qualities. Additionally, familiarizing oneself with hardware components like bridges, tuners, and knobs is essential for maintaining and adjusting the instrument for optimal playability.

When choosing a beginner electric guitar, consider the type of pickup configuration that suits your preferred music genre or playing style. For instance, single-coil pickups offer clear and bright tones ideal for genres like pop or blues, while humbuckers deliver warmer and fuller sounds suitable for rock or metal styles.

Recommended brands for beginner electric guitars

When choosing a beginner electric guitar, consider these recommended brands:

1. Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster – Praised for its premium experience and better-than-entry-level quality.
2. Yamaha Pacifica 112V – Known for its versatility, reliability, and affordability, making it a popular choice for new guitarists.
3. PRS SE Standard 24-08 – With comfortable playability and professional feel, it is suitable for beginners and experienced players alike.
4. Rivolta – Offers high-quality instruments recommended for beginners.
5. Danelectro – Provides unique retro aesthetic and beginner-friendly electric guitars.

Budget considerations

When considering budget, it’s essential to weigh the quality and features of beginner electric guitars. Look for models such as the Yamaha Pacifica 112V or Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster, which offer a good balance between affordability and performance.

Keep in mind that investing in a slightly higher-priced instrument can lead to better durability, sound quality, and overall playing experience. Keep an eye out for deals from trusted brands like Epiphone and Yamaha to find entry-level electric guitars that fit within your budget without sacrificing quality.

Beginner Guitar Gear Essentials

Make sure to have essential gear like an amplifier, picks, cables, tuner, and guitar strap to accompany your beginner electric guitar. To find out more about the best electric guitars for beginners and how to get started with playing the guitar, continue reading.

Amplifier

When choosing an amplifier for your beginner electric guitar, consider the type of music you want to play. Look for a basic practice amp with simple controls and a headphone output for private practice sessions.

The Yamaha THR5A is an excellent choice, providing versatile sound options suitable for various musical genres. Additionally, the Fender Champion 20 offers great tone and versatility at an affordable price, making it ideal for beginners exploring different styles of music.

For gigging or jamming with other musicians in the future, consider investing in a larger combo amp or a separate head and speaker cabinet. Brands like Orange and Marshall offer reliable options that can grow with you as your skills progress.

Picks

When it comes to playing the electric guitar, having the right picks is essential for achieving the desired sound and playability. The type of pick you choose can significantly impact your overall performance and tone.

Beginners often find that lighter gauge picks (typically between 0.60mm to 0.73mm) are easier to handle, while providing a more forgiving playing experience. As skills progress, experimenting with different materials like nylon, celluloid, or even felt picks can further enhance versatility in tone production.

Selecting the right pick also depends on individual playing style and genre preferences. For instance, heavier gauge picks (around 1mm) produce a brighter sound and are favored by rock and metal players due to their ability to deliver robust attack and precision strumming.

Cables

When setting up your beginner electric guitar, it’s essential to invest in high-quality cables. Good cables ensure that the sound from your guitar reaches the amplifier without interference or quality loss.

Look for durable shielded cables with good connectors to prevent signal loss and noise interference during practice or performances. Additionally, reliable cables will help you achieve a clear and consistent sound, making your learning experience more enjoyable and effective.

Now let’s move on to the next important element for your beginner electric guitar setup – “Tuner”.

Tuner

When it comes to essential gear for beginner electric guitar players, a tuner is a must-have. Keeping your instrument in tune is crucial for developing good playing habits and enjoying the sound of your guitar.

A clip-on tuner, such as those made by brands like Snark or KLIQ, easily attaches to the headstock of the guitar and provides visual feedback to help you tune accurately. Tuners are an affordable investment that will ensure your guitar sounds its best every time you play, making them an indispensable accessory for beginners.

Understanding how to use a tuner effectively can significantly improve the quality of your practice sessions and performances alike. By investing in a reliable tuner early on, beginner electric guitarists can develop their ear for pitch while creating a solid foundation for their musical journey.

Guitar strap

When choosing a guitar strap, consider the material, width, and length for comfort and support during long practice sessions or performances. Look for adjustable options to ensure the perfect fit.

Leather and nylon are durable choices that provide excellent support. Additionally, padded straps can help distribute the weight of the guitar evenly across your shoulder for added comfort during extended playing sessions.

Consider adding locks or buttons to secure your instrument safely while performing.

Resources for Beginner Guitar Lessons

Find the best online lessons, newsletter subscriptions, and additional buying guides to help you kickstart your guitar journey. Ready to start playing? Keep reading for our final recommendation!

Online lessons

Beginner guitarists can take advantage of a wide range of online lessons tailored to their skill level and learning pace. These resources provide interactive tutorials, video demonstrations, and personalized feedback to help new players develop fundamental techniques and build confidence in their abilities.

With the accessibility of online platforms, aspiring musicians can easily access structured lesson plans, chord diagrams, and play-along tracks right from the comfort of their homes, making it convenient for them to learn at their own convenience.

Engaging with online lessons also allows beginners to explore various musical styles and genres while gaining insight into music theory, scales, and improvisation. Additionally, these digital resources offer an opportunity for novice electric guitarists to connect with a community of fellow learners through forums and live Q&A sessions hosted by experienced instructors or established musicians.

Embracing digital learning tools enables beginners to expand their knowledge base and hone essential skills necessary for mastering the electric guitar.

Newsletter subscriptions

Subscribe to reliable newsletters for beginner electric guitar lessons, gear recommendations, and industry updates. Stay informed about new releases from top electric guitar brands.

Get access to exclusive discounts and offers on entry-level electric guitars and essential accessories. Keep up with the latest trends in guitar playing and expand your knowledge with helpful tips and techniques tailored for novice players.

Stay connected to the beginner guitar community through informative content delivered straight to your inbox.

Get regular updates on recommended beginner electric guitars, basic gear essentials, and resources for online lessons. Delve into in-depth buying guides and testing processes for entry-level electric guitars.

Additional buying guides

Transition from the previous heading, “Newsletter subscriptions,” to the next heading, “Additional buying guides.”

When considering additional buying guides for beginner electric guitars, it’s important to focus on factors such as guitar body shape and wood type. Understanding the significance of pickups and hardware can help in making an informed decision.

It is also essential to consider recommended brands that offer quality instruments suitable for beginners while keeping budget considerations in mind.

The importance of focusing on guitar body shape and wood type should not be overlooked when selecting a beginner-friendly electric guitar. Additionally, understanding pickups and hardware will assist in choosing an instrument that suits individual preferences.

Testing process for beginner electric guitars

Transitioning from selecting the right guitar to the testing process is crucial for beginners. Testing electric guitars involves assessing their playability, sound quality, and overall feel.

It’s important to check if the guitar feels comfortable and easy to hold, especially for long practice sessions.

When testing beginner electric guitars, pay close attention to the fretboard and how well your fingers move across it. Check for any buzzing or sharp edges on the frets, as these can affect playability.

Conclusion with final recommendation

After considering the top 10 entry-level electric guitars for beginners, it is evident that the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster stands out as a premium option, providing high-quality features and playability.

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V also proves to be a versatile and reliable choice due to its quality and affordability. Additionally, PRS SE Custom 24 garners praise for its comfortable playability and professional feel, making it suitable for both novice players and more experienced musicians.

With these options in mind, beginners can confidently make their selection based on their preferences and budget constraints.

FAQs

1. What makes an electric guitar best for beginners?

An entry-level electric guitar is best for beginners because it’s designed to be easy to use, with simple features and comfortable playability perfect for those just starting out.

2. Can you recommend some beginner-friendly electric guitar options?

Sure! Look for guitars labeled as “starter” or “introductory” electric guitars; these models are often basic, novice-friendly and come with recommendations to guide new players.

3. Do I need any special accessories when buying my first electric guitar?

Yes, besides the guitar itself, you should consider getting a few essential accessories like a guitar amplifier, picks, and maybe even extra strings to keep your practice sessions going strong.

4. Are there specific brands known for producing good entry-level electric guitars?

Indeed, several brands have built a reputation for offering quality beginner electric guitar options which are specifically tailored for learners and amateurs.

5. What should I look for in a basic electric guitar if I’m a complete novice?

As someone completely new to playing the instrument, focus on finding an easy-to-use electric guitar that feels comfortable in your hands and doesn’t overwhelm you with too many complex features.