Best Electric Guitars

of December 2024

Best Electric Guitars you can buy today

The electric guitar, a pivotal innovation in modern music, transforms the vibrant energy of string vibrations into rich, amplified sound. Introduced in the 1930s, it became a cornerstone of diverse genres, such as rock, blues, jazz, and metal. Unlike its acoustic counterpart, the electric guitar relies on pickups—magnetic coils that transduce the strings' motion into electrical signals—allowing musicians to experiment with tone through amplifiers and effects pedals. Iconic models, like the Fender Stratocaster and Gibson Les Paul, have shaped the sonic landscapes of countless artists and bands, making the electric guitar an enduring symbol of creative expression and musical revolution.

  • 1
    Ktaxon 39 Inch Electric Guitar, Full Size Solid Body H-H Pickups 6 Strings Beginner Guitar Kit With Gig Bag, Strap, Tremolo Arm, Cable & Picks (Black Back)
    10.0

    Ktaxon 39 Inch Electric Guitar, Full Size Solid Body H-H Pickups 6 Strings Beginner Guitar Kit With Gig Bag, Strap, Tremolo Arm, Cable & Picks (Black Back) best from "Ktaxon"

    Ktaxon

  • 2
    Best Choice Products 39in Full Size Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit w/Case, Strap, 10W Amp, Strings, Pick, Tremolo Bar - Hollywood Blue
    10.0

    Best Choice Products 39in Full Size Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit w/Case, Strap, 10W Amp, Strings, Pick, Tremolo Bar - Hollywood Blue best from "Best Choice Products"

    Best Choice Products

  • 3
    SAYHA Electric Guitar, 39 Inch Solid Full-size Electric Guitar HSS Pickups Starter Kit Includes Amplifier, Bag, Digital Tuner, Strap, String, Cable, Picks(Black)
    9.9

    SAYHA Electric Guitar, 39 Inch Solid Full-size Electric Guitar HSS Pickups Starter Kit Includes Amplifier, Bag, Digital Tuner, Strap, String, Cable, Picks(Black) best from "SAYHA"

    SAYHA

  • 4
    Ibanez GRX 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Transparent Violet Sunburst, Full (GRX70QATVT)
    9.9

    Ibanez GRX 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Transparent Violet Sunburst, Full (GRX70QATVT) best from "Ibanez"

    Ibanez

  • 5
    ZENY 39" Full Size Electric Guitar with Amp, Case and Accessories Pack Beginner Starter Package, Blue Ideal Christmas Thanksgiving Holiday Gift
    9.9

    ZENY 39" Full Size Electric Guitar with Amp, Case and Accessories Pack Beginner Starter Package, Blue Ideal Christmas Thanksgiving Holiday Gift best from "ZENY"

    ZENY

  • 6
    Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit, Beginner Guitar Kit, with 2-Year Warranty, with Padded Gig Bag, Frontman 10G Amp, Guitar Strap, and More, Includes Free Lessons, Black
    9.6

    Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit, Beginner Guitar Kit, with 2-Year Warranty, with Padded Gig Bag, Frontman 10G Amp, Guitar Strap, and More, Includes Free Lessons, Black best from "Fender"

    Fender

  • 7
    Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish
    9.5

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

    Fender

  • 8
    Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit Solid Body Sunburst, Beginner Starter, with Amplifier, Bag, Capo, Strap, String, Tuner, Cable, Picks
    9.4

    Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit Solid Body Sunburst, Beginner Starter, with Amplifier, Bag, Capo, Strap, String, Tuner, Cable, Picks best from "Donner"

    Donner

  • 9
    Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit w/ 5W Amplifier, Strap, Gig Bag, Strings, Picks - Black
    9.4

    Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit w/ 5W Amplifier, Strap, Gig Bag, Strings, Picks - Black best from "Best Choice Products"

    Best Choice Products

  • 10
    Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar, Cherry
    9.1

    Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar, Cherry best from "Epiphone"

    Epiphone

A Guide to Selecting an Electric Guitar

Introduction to the Electric Guitar

The electric guitar is an iconic instrument beloved by musicians across genres. From rock legends to jazz virtuosos, the electric guitar has been at the heart of music innovation since its inception. Whether you're a seasoned player or a newbie looking to begin your musical journey, selecting the right electric guitar can be a pivotal moment. Owning a 6-string electric guitar can provide a unique connection to the music world, influencing your sound and performance capabilities.

With so many options on the market, it can feel daunting to find the perfect match. Factors such as budget, style, and skill level need consideration. This guide aims to ease the decision-making process by providing insights into the different aspects and features of an electric guitar, culminating in your ideal music companion.

Best Electric Guitar Brands

Choosing a guitar from a reputable brand can ensure quality and reliability. Some of the best-known brands have stood the test of time, offering models that cater to both advanced players and beginners. Notable brands include:

  • Fender: Renowned for its classic designs, Fender offers guitars known for their excellent playability and sound.
  • Gibson: Famous for the Les Paul model, Gibson guitars are synonymous with rock and blues.
  • Ibanez: Preferred by many metal and rock enthusiasts, Ibanez delivers sleek designs and fast necks.
  • Yamaha: Known for producing versatile and affordable instruments suitable for beginners.

Other brands worth noting include PRS, ESP, and Epiphone, each offering unique styles and features that may align with your musical needs and preferences.

Features of an Electric Guitar

The myriad features of an electric guitar can influence your playing experience dramatically. When shopping for a guitar, consider the following attributes:

  • Body Style: The three main body styles—solid, semi-hollow, and hollow—affect the sound and feel of the guitar.
  • Pickups: The type of pickups (single-coil, humbucker, or P90) is critical in determining tone quality and character.
  • Neck: The neck profile, scale length, and fretboard material can influence playability.
  • Bridge Type: Whether fixed or tremolo, the bridge affects sustain and tuning stability.

The choice of features ultimately should align with your musical style and comfort. Testing guitars with different configurations at a local store or through video reviews can be highly beneficial.

Most Important Factors to Consider When Buying Electric Guitar

When deciding on the right instrument, consider these vital criteria:

  • Budget: Determine a price range that aligns with your financial capacity and stick to it.
  • Playability: Ensure the guitar is comfortable to play, with a neck that fits your hand well.
  • Sound: Choose a guitar whose tonal quality resonates with your preferred music style.
  • Accessories: Consider purchasing an electric guitar with amplifier and other accessories like a tuner, case, strap, and cables.

The decision process can take time, and that's perfectly fine. It's crucial to choose a guitar that you feel excited to pick up and play every day.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Electric Guitar

Understanding the upsides and potential downsides can steer your decision-making. Here are some points to consider:

Advantages:

  • Wide range of tones suitable for various music genres.
  • Ability to play at loud volumes with an electric guitar with amplifier.
  • Endless customization and modification options.

Disadvantages:

  • Often requires additional equipment like amplifiers and effects pedals.
  • Can be more complex for novices compared to an acoustic guitar.
  • May incur higher maintenance costs.

Despite the potential challenges, the versatility and expressive potential of an electric guitar make it a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Conclusion on Electric Guitar

Selecting the right electric guitar is an exciting yet complex decision. By evaluating brands, features, personal preferences, and key criteria, you'll be better equipped to find a guitar that meets your needs and unlocks your creative potential. Whether you're leaning towards a 6-string electric guitar or seeking an electric guitar for beginners, this guide aims to be your compass in making a choice you’ll be thrilled about. Remember, the right guitar is an extension of your own musical voice, so take the time to find the one that truly resonates with you.

Mark Thompson avatar
Mark Thompson

Content writer & Product reviewer

Mark is the go-to guy for all things rugged and active on our site. With expertise in Sports & Outdoors, Musical Instruments, and Automotive, Mark brings a practical and hands-on approach to his writing. His passion for adventure and gear is evident in his detailed reviews and recommendations, whether he’s covering the latest outdoor equipment, the best musical instruments, or must-have automotive tools. Mark’s straightforward style and deep knowledge help readers make smart choices for their next adventure, tune-up, or jam session.

Buy Now Guide Newsletter

Get exclusive articles, recommendations, shopping tips, and sales alerts.

* By submitting your email address you agree to our Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy