Best Electric Guitar Brands for Beginners [2023]

Are you ready to embark on your journey to becoming a rockstar? Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience under your belt, choosing the right electric guitar is crucial. With so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect instrument to kickstart your musical career. But fear not! We, the expert team at Guitar Brands™, are here to guide you through the process and help you find the best electric guitar brands for beginners in 2023.

Quick Answer

Looking for a quick answer? Here are our top picks for the best electric guitar brands for beginners in 2023:

1. Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
2. Yamaha Pacifica 112V
3. Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro
4. Ibanez RG450DX
5. PRS SE Standard 24
6. Gibson Les Paul Studio
7. Gretsch G2622 Streamliner

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the details, here are some quick tips and facts to keep in mind when choosing an electric guitar for beginners:

• Budget: Set a budget that suits your needs. You don’t have to break the bank to get a great beginner electric guitar.
• Playability: Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck and low action (string height) for easy playability.
• Versatility: Choose a guitar that can handle a wide range of musical genres, so you can explore different styles as you progress.
• Pickups: Single-coil pickups are great for clean tones, while humbuckers offer a thicker, heavier sound. Consider a guitar with both for versatility.
• Amp: Don’t forget to budget for an amplifier if you don’t already have one. A good amp can greatly enhance your playing experience.

Now, let’s dive deeper into the world of electric guitar brands for beginners and find the perfect match for you.

Background: Choosing the Best Electric Guitar for Beginners

Choosing the right electric guitar as a beginner is crucial for your musical journey. It sets the foundation for your playing style, influences your tone, and can greatly impact your overall experience. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the key factors to consider when making your decision.

When looking for the best electric guitar for beginners, you’ll want to consider factors such as:

• Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on your first electric guitar. Remember, you don’t have to spend a fortune to get a quality instrument.
• Playability: Look for a guitar with a comfortable neck shape and low action (string height) for easy playability.
• Tone: Consider the type of music you want to play and choose a guitar that suits your desired tone. Different woods and pickups can greatly influence the sound.
• Versatility: As a beginner, you’ll likely want a guitar that can handle a wide range of musical genres. Look for a versatile instrument that can grow with you as you progress.
• Brand Reputation: Opt for a reputable brand known for producing quality instruments. Established brands often have better customer support and resale value.

Now that you have a better understanding of what to look for, let’s explore the best electric guitar brands for beginners in 2023.

1. Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

The Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster is a fantastic choice for beginners. It offers the iconic Stratocaster design and sound at an affordable price point. The Affinity Series Stratocaster features a comfortable C-shaped neck, three single-coil pickups, and a synchronized tremolo bridge for added versatility.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Alder
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
• Scale Length: 25.5″
• Pickups: 3x Standard Single-Coil Strat
• Bridge: 6-Saddle Vintage-Style Synchronized Tremolo

Pros:

• Classic Stratocaster design and sound
• Affordable price point
• Comfortable neck for easy playability

Cons:

• Some users may find the stock pickups lacking in tonal versatility

User Review:

“I bought the Squier Affinity Stratocaster as my first electric guitar, and I couldn’t be happier. It’s comfortable to play, sounds great, and the build quality is impressive for the price. Highly recommended for beginners!” – John D.

2. Yamaha Pacifica 112V

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is a versatile and reliable electric guitar that’s perfect for beginners. It offers excellent playability, a comfortable neck, and a range of tones thanks to its HSS pickup configuration. The Pacifica 112V is known for its exceptional build quality and value for money.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Alder
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 25.5″
• Pickups: Alnico V Humbucker x 1, Alnico V Single Coils x 2
• Bridge: Vintage-Style Tremolo with Block Saddle

Pros:

• Versatile HSS pickup configuration
• Excellent build quality
• Comfortable neck for easy playability

Cons:

• Some users may find the tremolo system less stable compared to other models

User Review:

“The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is hands down the best electric guitar for beginners. It’s well-built, plays like a dream, and offers a wide range of tones. I’ve been playing mine for years, and it still impresses me every time.” – Sarah M.

3. Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro

If you’re a fan of classic rock and blues, the Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro is an excellent choice. This iconic guitar offers the timeless Les Paul design and a rich, warm tone. The PlusTop Pro version features a stunning flame maple top and ProBucker pickups for that authentic Les Paul sound.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Mahogany with Flame Maple Top
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
• Scale Length: 24.75″
• Pickups: ProBucker-2 (Neck), ProBucker-3 (Bridge)
• Bridge: LockTone Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar

Pros:

• Classic Les Paul design and tone
• Beautiful flame maple top
• Smooth playability

Cons:

• Some users may find the weight of the guitar a bit heavy

User Review:

“The Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro is an incredible guitar for the price. It looks stunning, sounds amazing, and feels great to play. I’ve been gigging with mine for years, and it never disappoints.” – Mark R.

4. Ibanez RG450DX

If you’re into rock and metal, the Ibanez RG450DX is a beast of a guitar that won’t break the bank. It features a sleek double-cutaway body, a fast-playing Wizard III neck, and powerful Quantum pickups. The RG450DX is built for speed and precision, making it perfect for shredders and heavy riff enthusiasts.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Wizard III Maple
• Fingerboard: Jatoba
• Scale Length: 25.5″
• Pickups: Quantum Humbucker x 2, Quantum Single Coil x 1
• Bridge: Double Locking Tremolo System

Pros:

• Fast and comfortable neck for speedy playing
• Powerful pickups for heavy tones
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• Some users may find the tremolo system a bit tricky to set up and maintain

User Review:

“The Ibanez RG450DX is a metal machine! It’s incredibly fast and responsive, and the pickups deliver crushing tones. I’ve been playing metal for years, and this guitar never disappoints. Highly recommended for aspiring shredders.” – Alex S.

5. PRS SE Standard 24

If you’re looking for a high-quality guitar with exceptional craftsmanship, the PRS SE Standard 24 is a top contender. This guitar offers the renowned PRS build quality and attention to detail at an affordable price. The SE Standard 24 features a comfortable wide-thin maple neck, versatile 85/15 “S” pickups, and a stunning range of finish options.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Maple
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 25″
• Pickups: 85/15 “S” Humbucker x 2
• Bridge: PRS Patented Tremolo, Molded

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and craftsmanship
• Versatile pickup configuration
• Wide range of stunning finish options

Cons:

• Some users may find the tremolo system less stable compared to other models

User Review:

“The PRS SE Standard 24 is an absolute gem. It looks and feels like a high-end guitar, but at a fraction of the price. The tones are incredible, and the playability is unmatched. I couldn’t be happier with my purchase.” – Emily W.

6. Gibson Les Paul Studio

If you’re willing to invest a bit more in your first electric guitar, the Gibson Les Paul Studio is a fantastic choice. This iconic guitar offers the legendary Les Paul tone and playability. The Les Paul Studio features a mahogany body, a comfortable slim-taper neck, and powerful Alnico Classic humbuckers.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany
• Fingerboard: Rosewood
• Scale Length: 24.75″
• Pickups: Alnico Classic Humbucker (Neck), Alnico Classic Plus Humbucker (Bridge)
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with Stopbar

Pros:

• Classic Les Paul tone and playability
• High-quality craftsmanship
• Stunning finish options

Cons:

• The higher price point may be a deterrent for some beginners

User Review:

“The Gibson Les Paul Studio is worth every penny. The tone is incredible, and the build quality is top-notch. It’s a guitar that will inspire you to play and create music. If you’re serious about your guitar playing, this is the one to get.” – Michael B.

7. Gretsch G2622 Streamliner

If you’re looking for a guitar with vintage flair and a unique sound, the Gretsch G2622 Streamliner is a great option. This hollow-body guitar offers a warm and resonant tone, perfect for jazz, blues, and rockabilly. The G2622 Streamliner features Broad’Tron pickups, a comfortable neck, and a Bigsby tremolo for added versatility.

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater

Key Features:

• Body: Laminated Maple
• Neck: Nato
• Fingerboard: Laurel
• Scale Length: 24.75″
• Pickups: Broad’Tron Humbucker x 2
• Bridge: Adjusto-Matic with Secured Laurel Base

Pros:

• Unique vintage-inspired design
• Warm and resonant tone
• Bigsby tremolo for added versatility

Cons:

• Some users may find the hollow-body design prone to feedback at high volumes

User Review:

“The Gretsch G2622 Streamliner is a joy to play. The tone is rich and full, and the build quality is exceptional. It’s a guitar that stands out from the crowd and delivers a unique sound. Highly recommended for those looking for something different.” – David L.

FAQ

What electric guitar is the best for beginners?

The best electric guitar for beginners depends on your personal preferences and budget. However, some popular choices among beginners include the Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster, Yamaha Pacifica 112V, and Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro. These guitars offer excellent playability, versatile tones, and great value for money.

Read more about “What Guitar to Buy for a Beginner? …”

Which guitar is the best for beginners?

The best guitar for beginners ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, we recommend starting with a versatile and affordable option like the Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster or Yamaha Pacifica 112V. These guitars offer a great balance of playability, tone, and value for beginners.

Read more about “Which Guitar Brand is Best for Beginners? …”

What type of electric guitar should I buy first?

As a beginner, it’s generally recommended to start with a solid-body electric guitar. Solid-body guitars are more versatile and easier to handle compared to semi-hollow or hollow-body guitars. They also tend to be more affordable, making them a great choice for beginners.

What is a good cheap starter electric guitar?

If you’re on a tight budget, there are plenty of affordable options that still offer great quality. The Squier Bullet Mustang and Epiphone Les Paul Special II are both excellent choices for beginners on a budget. These guitars offer solid build quality, decent tones, and are perfect for learning the ropes.

Conclusion

Choosing the right electric guitar as a beginner is crucial for your musical journey. After thorough research and analysis, we’ve determined that the Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster, Yamaha Pacifica 112V, Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro, Ibanez RG450DX, PRS SE Standard 24, Gibson Les Paul Studio, and Gretsch G2622 Streamliner are the best electric guitar brands for beginners in 2023.

Each of these guitars offers exceptional playability, versatile tones, and excellent build quality. Whether you’re into rock, blues, metal, or jazz, there’s a guitar on this list that will suit your needs and inspire you to reach new musical heights.

So, what are you waiting for? Pick up one of these fantastic electric guitars and start your musical journey today!

Recommended Links

• Guitar Brands Showcase
• Acoustic Guitars
• Guitar Brand Guides
• Guitar Buying Guide
• What Guitar to Buy for a Beginner? 2023

Reference Links

• Best beginner electric guitars 2023: kickstart your …
• Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
• Yamaha Pacifica 112V
• Epiphone Les Paul Standard PlusTop Pro
• Ibanez RG450DX
• PRS SE Standard 24
• Gibson Les Paul Studio
• Gretsch G2622 Streamliner

✅ CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater