Embarking on your musical journey with the right guitar can be a defining moment in your life. Fortunately, the quality and affordability of beginner electric guitars have significantly improved over the years. In 2024, the variety of options for first-time players is vast, but not all guitars are created equal. Drawing from extensive experience and comprehensive reviews, we’ve curated a list of the best beginner guitars that cater to various styles and preferences.
1. Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster
The best beginner electric guitar overall
Specifications:
- Body: Pine
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 25.5″
- Fingerboard: Maple
- Frets: 21
- Pickups: Fender Designed Alnico Single Coils
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Budget-friendly
- Variety of finishes
Cons:
- There are cheaper models available
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster stands out as the top choice for beginners. It offers great build quality and sound at a reasonable price. While slightly pricier than some models, its superior setup and durability make it a worthwhile investment.
2. Yamaha Pacifica 112V
The best beginner electric guitar for small budgets
Specifications:
- Body: Alder
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 25.5″
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Alnico V Humbucker and Single Coils
Pros:
- Highly playable
- Good range of features
- Affordable
Cons:
- Some finishes may not appeal to everyone
The Yamaha Pacifica 112V, a Strat-style guitar, offers exceptional playability and build quality, surpassing its modest price tag. It provides a wide range of tones, suitable for various musical styles.
3. PRS SE Standard 24
The most versatile choice under $600
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 25”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 24
- Pickups: 2x 85/15 “S”
Pros:
- Flawless finish options
- Rock-solid reliability
- Coil-splits for added tone versatility
Cons:
- It might make you crave a pricier PRS
The PRS SE Standard 24 is an exceptional model for those seeking versatility and quality at an affordable price. Its 24-fret neck and coil-split capabilities offer a wide tonal range, making it a standout in its category.
4. Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20
A powerful workhorse for the modern guitar player
Specifications:
- Body: Chambered mahogany
- Neck: 3-piece mahogany
- Scale: 24.75”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: YGD-designed VH3 humbuckers
Pros:
- Resonant body
- Great playing neck
- Excellent value
Cons:
- Not the most versatile
The Yamaha Revstar Element RSE20 is an ideal first guitar that promises longevity. Its chambered mahogany body and hot vintage-toned pickups offer a unique playing experience.
5. Squier Bullet Mustang
The best beginner electric guitar for kids
Specifications:
- Body: Basswood
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 24″
- Fingerboard: Laurel
- Frets:
22
- Pickups: Squier humbuckers
Pros:
- Ideal for smaller hands
- Incredibly affordable
- Rich, fat tones
Cons:
- Feels a bit cheap
The Squier Bullet Mustang is a fantastic choice for young or smaller players. Its reduced scale size and affordable price make it a great entry point for budding guitarists. Despite its budget-friendly tag, it offers robust playability and sound quality.
6. Epiphone Les Paul Studio
An affordable version of the stripped-back classic
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Scale: 24.75”
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo
- Pickups: Alnico Classic Humbuckers
Pros:
- Ideal for rock and metal genres
- Powerful pickups
- Smooth playability
Cons:
- A bit heavy for younger players
The Epiphone Les Paul Studio is an excellent entry-level electric guitar, especially for those inclined towards rock and metal music. It delivers a wide range of tones, from clean to heavy overdrive, backed by sturdy construction.
7. Gretsch G2420 Streamliner
Big sounds and iconic looks for an entry-level-friendly price
Specifications:
- Body: Maple
- Neck: Nato
- Scale: 24.75″
- Fingerboard: Laurel
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Broad’Tron BT-2S humbuckers
Pros:
- Vibrant tone
- Gorgeous aesthetics
- Solid hardware
Cons:
- May be too large for kids
- No left-handed version
The Gretsch G2420 Streamliner, with its hollow-body design, is perfect for country, folk, and jazz enthusiasts. It offers a distinct tonal character and expressive vibrancy, ideal for those seeking a unique playing experience.
8. Epiphone SG Standard
The best beginner electric guitar for Angus Young fans
Specifications:
- Body: Mahogany
- Neck: Mahogany
- Scale: 24.75″
- Fingerboard: Pau Ferro
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Epiphone Alnico Classic PRO
Pros:
- Versatile performance
- Rock-ready tones
- Eye-catching design
Cons:
- Limited to rock-oriented styles
The Epiphone SG Standard is a fantastic choice for those inspired by rock legends. It offers excellent playability, access to higher frets, and a distinctive appearance that stands out from the crowd.
9. Squier Sonic Stratocaster HT H
A great beginner guitar for punk rock lovers
Specifications:
- Body: Poplar
- Neck: Maple
- Scale: 25.5″ (64.77 cm)
- Fingerboard: Maple
- Frets: 21
- Pickups: Ceramic Humbucker
Pros:
- Unbeatable price point
- Excellent playability
- Simple to use
Cons:
- Limited tonal variety
The Squier Sonic Stratocaster HT H, with its single humbucker and hardtail bridge, is perfect for fans of punk rock and power chords. Its straightforward design and comfortable neck profile make it an ideal choice for beginners.
10. Epiphone ES-335 Semi-Hollowbody
**Lose yourself in the vintage vibes
of this classic semi-hollowbody**
Specifications:
- Body: Maple
- Neck: Mahogany
- Scale: 24.75”
- Fingerboard: Rosewood
- Frets: 22
- Pickups: Alnico Classic PRO
Pros:
- Warm, vintage tones
- High playability
- Great for blues, country, and rock
Cons:
- Large body might be challenging for younger players
The Epiphone ES-335 Semi-Hollowbody blends timeless design with modern craftsmanship. This guitar is particularly appealing for its warm tones and sustain, ideal for genres like blues and rock. While its size may be intimidating for smaller players, it offers a comfortable playing experience for most.
Conclusion: The year 2024 presents an exciting array of beginner guitars, each with its unique strengths. Whether you’re inspired by classic rock, jazz, metal, or punk, there’s an instrument on this list to start your musical journey. Remember, the best guitar is the one that feels right in your hands and inspires you to play. Happy strumming!