🎸 Guitar Brands Ranked: The Ultimate Top 15 List for 2025


Video: THE WORST (AND BEST) IMPORT GUITAR BRANDS!!








Ever wondered which guitar brands truly reign supreme in 2025? Whether you’re a bedroom beginner dreaming of your first Strat, a seasoned shredder chasing that perfect scream, or an acoustic aficionado craving rich, warm tones, the world of guitar brands can feel like a jungle. We’ve all been there—wandering aisles, overwhelmed by logos and specs, wondering: Which brand will actually make me sound like a rockstar? 🤔

Here’s a little secret from our Guitar Brands™ team: it’s not just about the brand name, but how the guitar feels, sounds, and inspires you to play. In this comprehensive guide, we ranked the top 15 guitar brands based on craftsmanship, tone, playability, innovation, and value. From Fender’s timeless classics to boutique builders crafting one-of-a-kind masterpieces, we’ve got you covered. And stick around—we’ll bust some myths, explore boutique options, and help you pick the perfect axe for your style and budget.

Ready to find your sonic soulmate? Let’s dive in!


Key Takeaways

  • Fender and Gibson dominate the electric guitar world with iconic designs and legendary tones.
  • Martin and Taylor lead the acoustic pack, combining heritage with modern innovation.
  • Boutique brands offer unique craftsmanship but come with premium prices and wait times.
  • Playability and personal tone preference trump brand hype—try before you buy!
  • Budget-friendly brands like Squier, Epiphone, and Yamaha provide excellent value for beginners and intermediates.
  • Metalheads will love Ibanez, ESP, and Jackson for their aggressive tones and fast necks.

👉 Shop top brands now:


Table of Contents


Alright, let’s dive into the world of guitar brands! 🎸 We’re going to explore the iconic names, the up-and-comers, and everything in between. Get ready to have your mind blown! 🤯

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts for Guitar Brand Enthusiasts

Before we shred into the details, here are some quick nuggets of wisdom for all you guitar aficionados:

  • Brand isn’t everything: While a reputable brand often indicates quality, don’t underestimate lesser-known or boutique brands. They might just surprise you! 😉
  • Playability is paramount: A guitar that feels good in your hands is more likely to be played. Always prioritize comfort. ✅
  • Tone is subjective: What sounds amazing to one person might not appeal to another. Trust your ears! 👂
  • Used guitars can be a steal: Don’t shy away from the used market. You can often find high-quality instruments at a fraction of the price. 💰
  • Maintenance matters: No matter the brand, regular maintenance will keep your guitar sounding its best. 🧰

🎸 The Legacy of Licks: A Brief History of Iconic Guitar Brands

Let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore the origins of some of the most influential guitar brands. These companies have shaped the sound of music for generations.

  • Fender: Founded by Leo Fender in the 1940s, Fender revolutionized the guitar world with the Telecaster and Stratocaster. These guitars became the weapons of choice for countless musicians across genres. Search Fender on Amazon | Fender Official Website
  • Gibson: Since the late 1800s, Gibson has been synonymous with quality and innovation. From archtop jazz guitars to the iconic Les Paul, Gibson has consistently pushed the boundaries of guitar design. Search Gibson on Amazon | Gibson Official Website
  • Martin & Co.: Christian Frederick Martin Sr. founded Martin in 1833. Martin is the acoustic standard-bearer. Known for high-quality acoustic guitars and attention to detail, using fine materials like solid spruce tops and rare tonewoods. Search Martin on Amazon | Martin Official Website
  • PRS Guitars: Founded in 1985 by Paul Reed Smith, PRS quickly gained a reputation for its stunning craftsmanship and versatile designs. PRS guitars are known for their exceptional playability and rich, complex tones. Search PRS on Amazon | PRS Official Website

🔍 Our Expert Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Guitar Brands

So, how did we decide which guitar brands deserve a spot on our list? It wasn’t easy, but we took a comprehensive approach, considering several key factors:

  • Quality and Craftsmanship: We looked at the materials used, the attention to detail in construction, and the overall build quality of the guitars.
  • Innovation and Design: We considered brands that have pushed the boundaries of guitar design and introduced new technologies.
  • Tone and Sound: We evaluated the tonal characteristics of each brand’s guitars, considering their versatility and suitability for different genres.
  • Playability and Comfort: We assessed how comfortable the guitars are to play, considering factors like neck profile, fretboard radius, and overall ergonomics.
  • Brand Reputation and Legacy: We took into account the brand’s history, its reputation among musicians, and its overall impact on the guitar world.
  • Value for Money: We considered the price point of each brand’s guitars and whether they offer good value for the money.

🏆 Our Definitive Ranking: The Top 15 Guitar Brands That Rock Your World

Alright, drum roll please! 🥁 Here are our top 15 guitar brands, ranked for your viewing (and playing) pleasure:

1. Fender: The Sound of Innovation

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 10
Tone 9
Playability 9
Build Quality 8
Value 9

Fender, founded by Leo Fender, is often called “The King of Electric Guitars” https://breakthroughguitar.com/top-ten-most-popular-guitar-brands/. The Stratocaster and Telecaster are legendary models that have shaped the sound of rock, blues, and countless other genres. Fender guitars are known for their bright, clear tones and comfortable playability. The Squier line offers affordable options for beginners.

  • Pros: Iconic designs, versatile tones, wide range of models. ✅
  • Cons: Some players find the vintage-style hardware less reliable. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Fender Official Website

2. Gibson: The Legend Lives On

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 9
Tone 10
Playability 8
Build Quality 8
Value 8

Gibson has been crafting guitars since the late 1800s, and their instruments have become synonymous with rock and blues. The Les Paul and SG are iconic models known for their warm, powerful tones and sustain. Gibson guitars are a favorite among legendary musicians like Jimmy Page and Slash.

  • Pros: Classic designs, rich tones, legendary status. ✅
  • Cons: Can be expensive, quality control issues have been reported. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Gibson Official Website

3. PRS Guitars: Artistry Meets Performance

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 9
Tone 9
Playability 10
Build Quality 10
Value 8

PRS Guitars, founded by Paul Reed Smith in 1985, is known for high-caliber guitars [https://slashgear.com/1408785/major-electric-guitar-brands-ranked/]. PRS guitars are known for their stunning craftsmanship, exceptional playability, and versatile tones. The Custom 24 is a flagship model that has become a favorite among professional musicians.

  • Pros: Exquisite craftsmanship, versatile tones, comfortable playability. ✅
  • Cons: Can be expensive, some players find the aesthetic too modern. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | PRS Official Website

4. Martin & Co.: Acoustic Heritage Unmatched

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 10
Tone 10
Playability 9
Build Quality 10
Value 8

Martin is the acoustic standard-bearer [https://breakthroughguitar.com/top-ten-most-popular-guitar-brands/]. Known for high-quality acoustic guitars and attention to detail, using fine materials like solid spruce tops and rare tonewoods. The D-28 is a legendary model that has been played by countless musicians across genres.

  • Pros: Rich, resonant tones, exceptional craftsmanship, legendary status. ✅
  • Cons: Can be expensive, some players find the traditional designs too conservative. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Martin Official Website

5. Taylor Guitars: Modern Acoustic Excellence

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 9
Tone 9
Playability 10
Build Quality 9
Value 8

Taylor Guitars is known for modern technology and innovative design [https://breakthroughguitar.com/top-ten-most-popular-guitar-brands/]. Taylor guitars are known for their bright, clear tones and exceptional playability. The Grand Auditorium is a flagship model that has become a favorite among singer-songwriters.

  • Pros: Bright, clear tones, exceptional playability, innovative designs. ✅
  • Cons: Some players find the tone too sterile, can be expensive. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Taylor Official Website

6. Ibanez: Shredding the Boundaries

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 10
Tone 9
Playability 10
Build Quality 8
Value 9

Ibanez is tailor-made for shredders [https://breakthroughguitar.com/top-ten-most-popular-guitar-brands/]. Ibanez guitars are known for their thin, fast necks and high-output pickups. The RG and JEM series are popular among metal and rock guitarists.

  • Pros: Fast necks, high-output pickups, innovative designs. ✅
  • Cons: Some players find the tone too aggressive, build quality can vary. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Ibanez Official Website

7. Yamaha: Versatility for Every Musician

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 7
Functionality 9
Tone 8
Playability 9
Build Quality 9
Value 10

Yamaha offers value for money and consistency across models [https://slashgear.com/1408785/major-electric-guitar-brands-ranked/]. Yamaha guitars are known for their reliability and affordability. The Pacifica series is a popular choice for beginners.

  • Pros: Affordable, reliable, versatile. ✅
  • Cons: Designs can be bland, tone lacks character. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Yamaha Official Website

8. Epiphone: Accessible Icons

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 8
Tone 8
Playability 8
Build Quality 7
Value 9

Epiphone is Gibson’s Budget-Friendly Little Brother [https://breakthroughguitar.com/top-ten-most-popular-guitar-brands/]. Epiphone guitars offer affordable versions of classic Gibson designs. The Les Paul and SG models are popular choices for beginners and intermediate players.

  • Pros: Affordable, classic designs, good value. ✅
  • Cons: Build quality can be inconsistent, tone lacks the depth of Gibson models. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Epiphone Official Website

9. Squier: Your First Step to Stardom

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 7
Tone 7
Playability 8
Build Quality 7
Value 10

Squier is the affordable brand of Fender. Squier guitars offer affordable versions of classic Fender designs. The Stratocaster and Telecaster models are popular choices for beginners.

  • Pros: Very affordable, classic designs, great for beginners. ✅
  • Cons: Build quality can be inconsistent, tone lacks the depth of Fender models. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Squier Official Website

10. Jackson: Metal’s Sharp Edge

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 9
Tone 9
Playability 9
Build Quality 8
Value 8

Jackson is known for association with hard rock and heavy metal [https://slashgear.com/1408785/major-electric-guitar-brands-ranked/]. Jackson guitars are known for their aggressive designs and high-performance features. The Dinky and Rhoads models are popular among metal guitarists.

  • Pros: Aggressive designs, high-performance features, great for metal. ✅
  • Cons: Not versatile, build quality can vary. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Jackson Official Website

11. Schecter Guitar Research: Dark Tones and Modern Playability

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 9
Tone 9
Playability 9
Build Quality 8
Value 9

Schecter guitars are known for their dark tones and modern playability. The C-1 and Hellraiser models are popular among metal and hard rock guitarists.

  • Pros: Dark tones, modern playability, great value. ✅
  • Cons: Designs can be generic, build quality can vary. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Schecter Official Website

12. ESP Guitars: Forged in Fire, Built for Metal

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 9
Functionality 9
Tone 10
Playability 9
Build Quality 9
Value 8

ESP guitars lean towards the heavier end of the music spectrum [https://www.guitarworld.com/features/best-guitar-brands]. ESP guitars are known for their high-quality construction and aggressive tones. The Eclipse and Horizon models are popular among metal and hard rock guitarists.

  • Pros: High-quality construction, aggressive tones, great for metal. ✅
  • Cons: Can be expensive, not versatile. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | ESP Official Website

13. Gretsch: The Sound of Americana & Rockabilly

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 8
Tone 9
Playability 8
Build Quality 8
Value 8

Gretsch is known for high-end piercing sparkle, bellowing mid-range, and rich, warm lows [https://www.guitarworld.com/features/best-guitar-brands]. Gretsch guitars are known for their unique designs and distinctive tones. The ** hollow bodies** are popular among rockabilly and country guitarists.

  • Pros: Unique designs, distinctive tones, great for rockabilly and country. ✅
  • Cons: Can be difficult to play, feedback issues. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Gretsch Official Website

14. Rickenbacker: Distinctive Looks, Iconic Jangle

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 10
Functionality 8
Tone 9
Playability 8
Build Quality 8
Value 7

Rickenbacker is known for unique styles and shapes [https://slashgear.com/1408785/major-electric-guitar-brands-ranked/]. Rickenbacker guitars are known for their distinctive looks and jangly tones. The 330 and 360 models are popular among rock and indie guitarists.

  • Pros: Unique looks, jangly tones, iconic status. ✅
  • Cons: Can be expensive, difficult to play, limited versatility. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Rickenbacker Official Website

15. Godin Guitars: Canadian Craftsmanship & Innovation

Feature Rating (1-10)
Design 8
Functionality 9
Tone 8
Playability 9
Build Quality 9
Value 9

Godin Guitars manufactures instruments under Godin, Norman, Art & Lutherie, Simon and Patrick, La Patrie and Seagull [https://www.guitarworld.com/features/best-guitar-brands]. Godin guitars are known for their Canadian craftsmanship and innovative designs. The Session and Summit models are popular among versatile guitarists.

  • Pros: Canadian craftsmanship, innovative designs, great value. ✅
  • Cons: Designs can be bland, tone lacks character. ❌

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Guitar Center | Sweetwater | Godin Official Website

✨ Beyond the Behemoths: Exploring Boutique & Custom Guitar Builders

While the big brands dominate the market, there’s a whole world of boutique and custom guitar builders out there. These smaller companies often offer exceptional craftsmanship and unique designs. Some popular boutique brands include:

  • Suhr: Known for their high-performance guitars and meticulous attention to detail.
  • Mayones: Renowned for their stunning craftsmanship and innovative designs.
  • Kiesel: Offers custom-built guitars with a wide range of options.
  • Fano: Known for their vintage-inspired designs and relic finishes.
  • Collings: Renowned for their exceptional acoustic guitars.
  • Novo: Offers unique and quirky designs with a focus on playability.

These guitars are more expensive and may have long wait times [https://www.guitarworld.com/features/best-guitar-brands].

Should you buy from a boutique guitar brand instead? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a truly unique instrument with exceptional craftsmanship, a boutique brand might be the way to go. However, be prepared to pay a premium and wait for your guitar to be built.

🤔 Choosing Your Axe: Key Factors When Selecting a Guitar Brand

Choosing the right guitar brand can feel overwhelming, but don’t fret! Here are some key factors to consider:

Your Playing Style & Genre

Are you a shredder, a bluesman, or a singer-songwriter? Different brands cater to different playing styles and genres. For example, Ibanez is popular among metal guitarists, while Martin is a favorite among acoustic players.

Budget & Value Proposition

How much are you willing to spend on a guitar? Some brands offer excellent value for money, while others are more expensive. Consider your budget and what you’re looking for in a guitar.

Ergonomics & Playability

A guitar that feels good in your hands is more likely to be played. Consider factors like neck profile, fretboard radius, and overall ergonomics.

Tone & Electronics

What kind of tone are you looking for? Different brands use different woods, pickups, and electronics, which can significantly impact the sound of the guitar.

Build Quality & Materials

A well-built guitar will last for years and sound better over time. Consider the materials used and the overall construction quality of the guitar.

Brand Reputation & Resale Value

A reputable brand will hold its value better over time. Consider the brand’s history, its reputation among musicians, and its overall impact on the guitar world.

🎸 Guitar Types & Their Brand Sweet Spots: Electric, Acoustic, Bass & More

Let’s break down the different types of guitars and which brands excel in each category:

Electric Guitars: The Rock & Roll Heartbeat

  • Fender: Versatile and iconic, Fender is a great choice for a wide range of genres.
  • Gibson: Known for their warm, powerful tones, Gibson is a favorite among rock and blues players.
  • Ibanez: With their thin, fast necks and high-output pickups, Ibanez guitars are perfect for shredders.
  • PRS: PRS guitars offer exceptional playability and versatile tones, making them a great choice for professional musicians.

Acoustic Guitars: Unplugged Perfection

  • Martin: Martin is the acoustic standard-bearer, known for their rich, resonant tones.
  • Taylor: Taylor guitars offer bright, clear tones and exceptional playability, making them a great choice for singer-songwriters.
  • Yamaha: Yamaha acoustic guitars are reliable and affordable, making them a great choice for beginners.

Bass Guitars: The Low-End Foundation

  • Fender: The Precision Bass and Jazz Bass are legendary models that have shaped the sound of countless genres.
  • Ibanez: Ibanez bass guitars are known for their fast necks and versatile electronics.
  • Music Man: Music Man bass guitars are known for their powerful tones and exceptional playability.

Classical & Nylon String Guitars: Timeless Elegance

  • Cordoba: Cordoba guitars are known for their traditional designs and warm, mellow tones.
  • Yamaha: Yamaha classical guitars are reliable and affordable, making them a great choice for beginners.

🛠️ The Lifespan of Your Luthier’s Art: Maintenance, Value, and Longevity

No matter which guitar brand you choose, regular maintenance is essential to keep your instrument sounding its best. Here are some tips:

  • Clean your guitar regularly: Wipe down the body and neck after each playing session to remove dirt and grime.
  • Change your strings regularly: Old strings sound dull and lifeless. Replace them every few months, or more often if you play frequently.
  • Adjust the action: The action is the height of the strings above the fretboard. Adjust it to your liking for optimal playability.
  • Keep your guitar humidified: Wood instruments are sensitive to humidity. Use a humidifier to keep your guitar from drying out.
  • Store your guitar properly: Store your guitar in a case when you’re not playing it to protect it from damage.

🤯 Busted! Common Myths & Misconceptions About Guitar Brands

Let’s debunk some common myths about guitar brands:

  • Myth: Expensive guitars always sound better. ❌
    • Reality: While expensive guitars often have better materials and craftsmanship, tone is subjective. A cheaper guitar can sound just as good to some players. ✅
  • Myth: You need an expensive guitar to be a good player. ❌
    • Reality: Skill comes from practice, not from the price tag of your guitar. ✅
  • Myth: All guitars from a certain brand sound the same. ❌
    • Reality: Different models from the same brand can have very different tonal characteristics. ✅

🎯 Our Expert Picks: Top Guitar Brands for Every Player & Budget

Okay, let’s get specific. Here are our top guitar brand recommendations for different types of players:

Best for Beginners

  • Squier: Affordable and reliable, Squier guitars are a great choice for beginners.
  • Yamaha: Yamaha guitars offer excellent value for money and are known for their playability.

Best for Intermediate Players

  • Epiphone: Epiphone guitars offer affordable versions of classic Gibson designs.
  • Ibanez: Ibanez guitars are known for their fast necks and versatile electronics.

Best for Professionals

  • Fender: Fender guitars are versatile and iconic, making them a great choice for professional musicians.
  • Gibson: Gibson guitars are known for their warm, powerful tones and legendary status.
  • PRS: PRS guitars offer exceptional playability and versatile tones, making them a great choice for professional musicians.

Best for Specific Genres (e.g., Metal, Blues, Jazz)

  • Metal: Ibanez, ESP, Jackson, Schecter
  • Blues: Fender, Gibson
  • Jazz: Gibson, Gretsch

🎉 Conclusion: Your Guitar Journey Starts Here!

Whew! That was quite the ride through the world of guitar brands, wasn’t it? From the iconic Fender Stratocaster to the boutique marvels of Suhr and Mayones, we’ve covered the spectrum of what makes a guitar brand truly stand out. Whether you’re a beginner hunting for your first axe or a seasoned pro chasing that perfect tone, knowing the strengths and quirks of each brand empowers you to make an informed choice.

To recap:

  • Fender and Gibson remain the titans for electric guitars, delivering legendary tones and timeless designs.
  • Martin and Taylor dominate the acoustic realm with heritage and innovation.
  • PRS strikes a beautiful balance between artistry and performance.
  • Brands like Ibanez, ESP, and Jackson cater to shredders and metalheads with lightning-fast necks and aggressive tones.
  • Don’t overlook boutique builders if you crave a unique, handcrafted instrument — but be ready for a premium price and wait time.

Remember our quick tip: playability and comfort trump brand hype every time. Your perfect guitar is the one that feels like an extension of your soul. So, try before you buy, trust your ears, and don’t be afraid to explore beyond the mainstream.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, it’s time to pick up that guitar and start making magic! 🎶✨


👉 Shop the Legendary Brands:

Must-Read Books on Guitar Mastery:

  • “The Guitar Handbook” by Ralph Denyer — A classic guide covering everything from basics to advanced techniques. Amazon Link
  • “Guitar Player Repair Guide” by Dan Erlewine — Essential for understanding guitar maintenance and setup. Amazon Link
  • “The Art of Guitar” by William Bay — Dive into guitar history and iconic players. Amazon Link

❓ FAQ: Your Burning Guitar Brand Questions Answered

What are the top acoustic guitar brands for beginners?

Martin, Taylor, and Yamaha top the list for beginners. Yamaha’s affordable models like the FG series offer great playability and durability, perfect for those just starting out. Martin and Taylor provide excellent tone and craftsmanship but tend to be pricier. For beginners on a budget, Yamaha or entry-level Taylor models strike a great balance between quality and cost.

How do I choose the best electric guitar brand for my music style?

Your music style heavily influences your choice:

  • Blues/Rock: Fender Stratocasters and Gibson Les Pauls are classic choices.
  • Metal/Hard Rock: Ibanez, ESP, Jackson, and Schecter deliver aggressive tones and fast necks.
  • Jazz: Gibson hollow bodies and Gretsch guitars offer warm, rich tones.
  • Pop/Indie: Fender and PRS provide versatile tones suitable for multiple genres.

Try to play guitars from these brands in your style to find what feels and sounds right.

Brands like Fender, Gibson, PRS, Martin, and Taylor dominate professional stages worldwide. Legendary players such as Eric Clapton (Fender), Slash (Gibson), and John Mayer (PRS) endorse these brands. Boutique brands like Suhr and Collings are also favored by pros seeking custom craftsmanship.

Are expensive guitar brands always better than affordable ones for intermediate players?

Not necessarily. While expensive guitars often use premium materials and craftsmanship, many affordable brands like Epiphone, Squier, and Yamaha offer excellent quality and playability for intermediate players. The key is to find a guitar that feels comfortable and inspires you to play, regardless of price.

How important is brand reputation when buying a guitar?

Brand reputation can indicate quality and resale value, but it’s not the only factor. Some lesser-known or boutique brands offer exceptional instruments that rival big names. Always test the guitar yourself and consider reviews and expert opinions.

Can I find good guitars in the used market?

Absolutely! Many players find high-quality used guitars at great prices. Just be sure to inspect the instrument thoroughly or buy from reputable sellers.



Ready to find your perfect guitar? Check out our Guitar Buying Guide and Guitar Brands Showcase for more expert insights and reviews. Rock on! 🤘

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 227

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *