Of all the instruments, the guitar consistently ranks as one of the most popular. It’s an instrument that’s accessible to people of all ages and skill levels. People are drawn to the guitar because of it’s relatively low cost and easy-to-learn nature.
There are many affordable guitars on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some cheap guitars are poorly made and difficult to play. Others are surprisingly good, offering quality comparable to more expensive models.So, which cheap guitar is the best? It depends on your individual needs and preferences. But here are a few of the best cheap guitars on the market, according to experts and customer reviews.
The Yamaha FG800 is a great choice for beginners. It’s well-made, with a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides. The sound is balanced and clear, with plenty of volume. The neck is comfortable to play, and the action is low, making it easy to fret notes. The Yamaha FG800 is a great value for the price, and it’s a guitar that you can grow with as you progress in your playing. If you’re looking for a cheap guitar that’s both affordable and high-quality, the Yamaha FG800 is a great option.
The Affordable Six-String: Best Cheap Guitars Under $100
The Epiphone Les Paul Special VE
When it comes to cheap electric guitars, the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE is a standout choice. This guitar packs a punch with its classic Les Paul body style, delivering the iconic sound that has made the Les Paul a legend. With its single-coil P-90 pickup, the Special VE produces a bright and twangy tone, perfect for rock, blues, and country music. The mahogany body and rosewood fingerboard provide a comfortable playing experience, while the wraparound bridge adds to the guitar’s vintage charm. For a price under $100, the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE offers an exceptional value for aspiring guitarists looking for a versatile and authentic electric guitar.
Other Top Picks
- Yamaha FG800: A well-rounded acoustic guitar with a full, warm tone. (~$100)
- Squier Affinity Stratocaster: A budget-friendly version of the iconic Strat, delivering the classic single-coil sound. (~$100)
- Ibanez GRX70QA: A sleek and versatile electric guitar with a floating bridge and humbucking pickups. (~$80)
- Dean Vendetta XM: An affordable metal guitar with a striking body shape and high-output pickups. (~$60)
| Brand | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Epiphone | Les Paul Special VE | $99 |
| Yamaha | FG800 | $99 |
| Squier | Affinity Stratocaster | $99 |
| Ibanez | GRX70QA | $79 |
| Dean | Vendetta XM | $59 |
Bang for Your Buck: Guitars That Punch Above Their Price Point
Yamaha Pacifica Series
Yamaha’s Pacifica series offers exceptional value for beginner and intermediate players alike. Featuring comfortable bodies, smooth-playing necks, and versatile electronics, these guitars deliver a surprising level of quality at an affordable price. The Pacifica 112 is a popular choice for beginners, while the Pacifica 212 and 311 cater to more experienced players with upgraded pickups and hardware.
Squier Affinity Series
Squier, a subsidiary of Fender, has long been known for producing high-quality, budget-friendly guitars. The Affinity series offers a wide range of models that are perfect for a variety of playing styles. The Affinity Stratocaster is a classic choice for rock, blues, and many other genres. It features a contoured body, maple neck, and three single-coil pickups that provide a versatile sound. The Affinity Telecaster is another popular option, known for its twangy tone and comfortable playing experience.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Squier Affinity Stratocaster | Alder | Maple | 3 single-coil | $199.99 |
| Squier Affinity Telecaster | Alder | Maple | 2 single-coil | $179.99 |
Epiphone Les Paul Special II
The Epiphone Les Paul Special II is a nod to the iconic Les Paul design, renowned for its warm, rich tone. This particular model features a mahogany body with a maple top, a set mahogany neck, and two humbuckers for a powerful sound. The simplified controls make it easy to dial in the desired tone, while the included hardshell case provides excellent protection.
Beginner’s Best Buy: Entry-Level Guitars for Aspiring Musicians
Affordable Options for Beginners
For those just starting their musical journey, investing in a high-end guitar may not be feasible. Fortunately, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that offer excellent value for money. These entry-level instruments provide a solid foundation for learning the basics of guitar playing without breaking the bank.
Finding Your Perfect Fit
When choosing a beginner’s guitar, consider factors such as body shape, scale length, and playability. For smaller hands, a smaller body shape and shorter scale length may be more comfortable. Electric guitars often have longer scale lengths, which can be more challenging for beginners. Look for guitars with a low action—the distance between the strings and the fretboard—which makes it easier to press down on the strings.
Top Budget-Friendly Guitars for Beginners
To help you find the best budget guitar for your needs, we’ve compiled a list of highly recommended options:
| Guitar | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Yamaha F310 | $150-$250 | – Dreadnought body shape for rich, full sound – Spruce top for bright, resonant tone – Nato back and sides for durability |
| Squier Affinity Stratocaster | $200-$350 | – Classic Stratocaster design with 3 single-coil pickups – Alder body for balanced tone – Maple neck for smooth playability |
| Ibanez GRX70QA | $250-$400 | – Super Strat body shape for versatility – HSH pickup configuration for a wide range of tones – Tremolo bridge for expressive playing – Mahogany body for warm, rich sound |
The Budget-Friendly Strat: S-Style Electric Guitars on a Shoestring
4. Entry-Level Wonders: Affordable Strats Under $300
For the ultimate budget-minded novice or casual enthusiast, there are S-style guitars available at an astonishingly low price point. These instruments may not boast the bells and whistles of their more expensive counterparts, but they are surprisingly capable and offer a genuine Strat experience without breaking the bank. Below is a table showcasing some exceptional options at this price range:
| Brand | Model | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Glarry | GST Electric Guitar | $129-$199 |
| SX | SSC-57 | $149-$249 |
| Rogue | LX200S | $169-$299 |
| Zenith | Z-ST20 | $199-$279 |
| First Act | ME310 | $249-$299 |
While these guitars may have some limitations compared to higher-end models, they are excellent starting points for beginners or those seeking an affordable S-style companion without sacrificing fundamental playability and classic Strat tone.
The Acoustic Advantage: Affordable Acoustic Guitars for Singers and Songwriters
Acoustic guitars are a versatile and budget-friendly option for singer-songwriters who prioritize sound quality and affordability.
Affordable Acoustic Options
Here are some top-rated acoustic guitars for under $300:
| Guitar Model | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Yamaha FG800 | $220-$270 |
| Epiphone DR-100 | $190-$240 |
| Fender CD-60S | $200-$250 |
Benefits of Acoustic Guitars
Acoustic guitars offer several advantages:
- Natural Sound: They produce a warm and resonant sound without the need for amplification.
- Portability: Their smaller size and weight make them easy to carry around.
- Affordability: Acoustic guitars are generally more affordable than electric guitars.
Tips for Choosing the Right Acoustic Guitar
Consider the following when choosing an acoustic guitar:
- Body Shape: Dreadnought and concert bodies provide a balanced sound, while parlor bodies are smaller and more comfortable for smaller players.
- Tonewoods: Spruce produces a bright and articulate sound, while mahogany offers a warmer and mellower tone.
- Playability: The guitar should feel comfortable to hold and play, with a low action and smooth fretwork.
The Best Acoustic Guitar Under $300
The Yamaha FG800 stands out as the best acoustic guitar under $300 for its exceptional sound quality, affordability, and durability. Its spruce top and mahogany back and sides deliver a rich and balanced tone, and its solid construction ensures longevity.
Classic Tone on a Budget: Cheap Les Paul-Style Electric Guitars
The Les Paul is one of the most iconic electric guitars ever made, but it can also be one of the most expensive. If you’re on a budget, there are a few great options available that can give you that classic Les Paul tone without breaking the bank.
Epiphone Les Paul Standard
The Epiphone Les Paul Standard is one of the most popular budget Les Paul-style guitars on the market. It features a mahogany body and neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The Standard also has a solid build quality and a great sound that is very close to the real thing.
Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Telecaster
The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Telecaster is another great option for a budget Les Paul-style guitar. It features an alder body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two single-coil pickups. The Classic Vibe ’50s Telecaster has a great vintage vibe and a sound that is perfect for blues, country, and rock.
Glarry GIT-LP
The Glarry GIT-LP is a great option for a budget Les Paul-style guitar. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The GIT-LP also has a solid build quality and a great sound that is very close to the real thing.
Eastcoast E-LP6
The Eastcoast E-LP6 is another great option for a budget Les Paul-style guitar. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The E-LP6 also has a solid build quality and a great sound that is very close to the real thing.
Vintage V100 Les Paul
The Vintage V100 Les Paul is a great option for a budget Les Paul-style guitar. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The V100 Les Paul also has a solid build quality and a great sound that is very close to the real thing.
ESP LTD EC-256
The ESP LTD EC-256 is a great option for a budget Les Paul-style guitar. It features a mahogany body, a maple neck, a rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The EC-256 also has a solid build quality and a great sound that is very close to the real thing.
| Model | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Epiphone Les Paul Standard | $599 | Mahogany body and neck, rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups |
| Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Telecaster | $399 | Alder body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, two single-coil pickups |
| Glarry GIT-LP | $299 | Mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups |
| Eastcoast E-LP6 | $349 | Mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups |
| Vintage V100 Les Paul | $399 | Mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups |
| ESP LTD EC-256 | $499 | Mahogany body, maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, two humbucking pickups |
The Rhythm Machine: Affordable Bass Guitars for Grooving
Yamaha TRBX174
Yamaha’s TRBX174 is an excellent value for beginners and intermediate players. The body is made from mahogany and topped with flame maple, giving it a classic aesthetic. It’s equipped with a pair of ceramic pickups that produce a warm and punchy tone.
Squier Affinity Jazz Bass
The Squier Affinity Jazz Bass is a budget-friendly option that delivers the classic Fender Jazz Bass sound. Its lightweight body is made from poplar, and the maple neck has a comfortable “C” profile. The single-coil pickups provide a bright and versatile tone.
Ibanez GIO GSR200
The Ibanez GIO GSR200 is a sleek and modern-looking bass that offers great playability. Its body is made from poplar and features a double-cutaway design for easy access to higher frets. The Dynamix P and J pickups provide a wide range of tones.
ESP LTD B-205SM
The ESP LTD B-205SM is a five-string bass that offers exceptional versatility. Its alder body and maple neck provide a solid foundation for the Seymour Duncan Designed pickups, which deliver a wide range of tones from warm lows to crisp highs.
Schecter Omen Extreme-4
The Schecter Omen Extreme-4 is a striking bass with a sleek body and a lightning-fast maple neck. It’s equipped with EMG pickups that produce a powerful and aggressive tone, perfect for metal and hard rock.
Glarry GXB600
The Glarry GXB600 is an excellent option for beginners who want a great-sounding and affordable bass. Its body is made from basswood, and the maple neck has a comfortable “C” profile. The passive pickups provide a warm and punchy tone.
Sire V3
The Sire V3 is a premium bass that offers exceptional value for the money. Its body is made from lightweight swamp ash and topped with a beautiful quilt maple veneer. The Marcus Super-Jazz pickups provide a wide range of vintage and modern tones.
| Feature | Sire V3 |
|---|---|
| Body | Lightweight swamp ash with quilt maple veneer |
| Neck | Roasted maple with a “C” profile |
| Pickups | Marcus Super-Jazz pickups |
| Electronics | Active 3-band EQ |
Shredding on the Cheap: Bullet-Style Electric Guitars for Metal and Rock
Squier by Fender Bullet Mustang HH
The Squier by Fender Bullet Mustang HH is a great choice for beginners looking for a versatile guitar that won’t break the bank. It features a comfortable body shape, dual humbucking pickups for a powerful sound, and a tremolo bridge for expressive playing.
Epiphone SG Special VE
The Epiphone SG Special VE is a classic rock guitar that delivers great value at a budget-friendly price. It has a lightweight mahogany body, a fast-playing neck, and a pair of P-90 pickups that provide a punchy and articulate tone.
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS11
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS11 is ideal for metal players seeking a high-performance guitar at an affordable price. It boasts a streamlined body, a lightning-fast maple neck with a compound radius, and dual humbucking pickups that deliver a massive and aggressive sound.
Ibanez GRX70QA
The Ibanez GRX70QA is a superstrat-style guitar that offers excellent playability and a wide range of tones. It features a poplar body, a Wizard III neck, and an HSS pickup configuration that provides everything from classic single-coil twang to heavy humbucking power.
LTD EC-256
The LTD EC-256 is a Les Paul-style guitar that delivers exceptional versatility and value for money. It has a mahogany body, a mahogany set neck, and a pair of EMG humbucking pickups that offer clarity, power, and sustain.
Schecter Omen Extreme-6
The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is an aggressive guitar designed for hard rock and metal players. It features a basswood body, a maple neck with a thin C shape, and a pair of EMG humbucking pickups that provide a tight and punchy sound.
Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012
The Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 is a well-rounded guitar that suits a variety of genres. It boasts an alder body, a maple neck, and a trio of single-coil pickups that deliver a bright and versatile tone.
Squier Bullet Mustang HH Features:
| Body | Poplar |
|---|---|
| Neck | Maple |
| Fingerboard | Indian Laurel |
| Pickups | Dual humbuckers |
| Bridge | Fixed |
| Hardware | Black |
Semi-Hollow Charm: Budget-Friendly Guitars for Jazz and Blues
Semi-hollow body guitars offer a unique blend of electric and acoustic tones, making them ideal for jazz, blues, and other genres that require both warmth and clarity.
Despite their reputation for being expensive, there are many budget-friendly semi-hollow guitars available that can provide excellent sound and playability without breaking the bank.
Here are some of the best cheap semi-hollow guitars on the market:
Epiphone Casino
The Epiphone Casino is a classic semi-hollow guitar that has been used by countless musicians over the years, including The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and David Bowie.
The Casino features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two P-90 pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone.
The Casino is a versatile guitar that can be used for a wide range of genres, from jazz to rock.
Gretsch Electromatic G5420T
The Gretsch Electromatic G5420T is a semi-hollow guitar with a unique and stylish design.
It features a chambered mahogany body with a maple top, a maple neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two Black Top Filter’Tron pickups, which provide a bright and twangy tone.
The G5420T is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a distinctive sound.
Ibanez AS73
The Ibanez AS73 is a semi-hollow guitar with a modern design and sound.
It features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two Super 58 Custom pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of output.
The AS73 is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a modern sound.
Hagstrom Viking Deluxe 12
The Hagstrom Viking Deluxe 12 is a semi-hollow 12-string guitar with a unique and beautiful sound.
It features a laminated mahogany body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two P-90 pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of chime and jangle.
The Viking Deluxe 12 is a great choice for players who want a unique and versatile 12-string guitar.
Guild Starfire I SC
The Guild Starfire I SC is a semi-hollow guitar with a classic design and sound.
It features a laminated mahogany body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two LB-1 Little Bucker pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of twang and bite.
The Starfire I SC is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a classic sound.
Epiphone Dot
The Epiphone Dot is a classic semi-hollow guitar that has been used by countless musicians over the years, including John Lee Hooker, B.B. King, and Eric Clapton.
The Dot features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two P-90 pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone.
The Dot is a versatile guitar that can be used for a wide range of genres, from jazz to blues to rock.
Sheraton II Pro
The Sheraton II Pro is a semi-hollow guitar with a unique and stylish design.
It features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two BurstBucker pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of output.
The Sheraton II Pro is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a modern sound.
Washburn HB-30
The Washburn HB-30 is a semi-hollow guitar with a classic design and sound.
It features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two P-90 pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of twang and bite.
The HB-30 is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a classic sound.
D’Angelico Premier Fulton
The D’Angelico Premier Fulton is a semi-hollow guitar with a unique and beautiful sound.
It features a laminated maple body with a spruce top, a mahogany neck, and a rosewood fingerboard.
It is equipped with two Seymour Duncan P-90 pickups, which provide a warm and clear tone with plenty of chime and jangle.
The Premier Fulton is a great choice for players who want a versatile guitar with a unique and beautiful sound.
| Model | Body | Neck | Pickups | Controls | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epiphone Casino | Laminated maple body with a spruce top | Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard | Two P-90 pickups | Two volume controls, two tone controls, and a three-way pickup selector switch | $499 |
| Gretsch Electromatic G5420T | Chambered mahogany body with a maple top | Maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard | Two Black Top Filter’Tron pickups | Two volume controls, two tone controls, and a three-way pickup selector switch | $599 |
| Ibanez AS73 | Laminated maple body with a spruce top | Mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard | Two Super 58 Custom pickups | Two volume controls, two tone controls, and a three-way pickup selector switch | $549 |
1. Yamaha FS800 Small Body Acoustic Guitar
A compact and budget-friendly option for travelers, the Yamaha FS800 features a solid spruce top that delivers a bright and resonant sound. Its smaller body size makes it easy to handle and comfortable to carry.
2. Fender Squier Mini Stratocaster Electric Guitar
Perfect for road trippers who prefer electric guitars, the Squier Mini Stratocaster offers classic Strat tones in a scaled-down size. Its dual single-coil pickups and vintage-style tremolo bridge provide a versatile range of sounds.
3. Ibanez GRX40 Electric Guitar
With its sleek design and ergonomic body, the Ibanez GRX40 is a great choice for backpackers and travelers who need a dependable electric axe. Its high-output humbuckers deliver a powerful and crunchy tone.
4. Epiphone Les Paul Special VE Electric Guitar
Known for its iconic look and classic rock sound, the Epiphone Les Paul Special VE is a budget-friendly option that captures the essence of the legendary Les Paul. Its P-90 pickup provides a warm and punchy tone.
5. Martin LX1 Little Martin Acoustic Guitar
A true travel companion, the Martin LX1 is a compact and lightweight acoustic guitar with a surprisingly full sound. It’s perfect for strumming around campfires or on the beach.
6. Taylor GS Mini Mahogany Acoustic Guitar
Boasting a beautiful tone and comfortable playability, the Taylor GS Mini Mahogany offers a compact size that’s ideal for travelers. Its solid mahogany top and back produce a warm and balanced sound.
7. Cordoba Mini II Classical Guitar
If you’re a classical guitar enthusiast, the Cordoba Mini II is a fantastic travel-friendly option. Its smaller size and nylon strings make it easy to transport and play.
8. Kala KA-15S Mahogany Soprano Ukulele
For a portable and cheerful instrument, the Kala KA-15S is a highly-rated soprano ukulele. Its mahogany construction provides a sweet and resonant sound, perfect for beachside serenades or campsite sing-alongs.
9. Recording King Dirty 30s Series 7 Acoustic Guitar
With its vintage charm and distinctive sound, the Recording King Dirty 30s Series 7 is a popular choice among travelers who appreciate history and character in their guitars.
10. Luna Vista Deer Acoustic Guitar
Combining affordability with eye-catching aesthetics, the Luna Vista Deer Acoustic Guitar features a unique deer-shaped soundhole and a solid cedar top. Its warm and mellow tone is perfect for campfire sing-alongs.
| Guitar | Body Type | Strings | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha FS800 | Acoustic, Small Body | 6 Strings | $250 |
| Fender Mini Stratocaster | Electric | 6 Strings | $199 |
| Ibanez GRX40 | Electric | 6 Strings | $249 |
| Epiphone Les Paul Special VE | Electric | 6 Strings | $199 |
| Martin LX1 | Acoustic, Small Body | 6 Strings | $299 |
| Taylor GS Mini Mahogany | Acoustic, Small Body | 6 Strings | $599 |
| Cordoba Mini II | Classical | 6 Strings | $199 |
| Kala KA-15S | Ukulele, Soprano | 4 Strings | $69 |
| Recording King Dirty 30s | Acoustic | 6 Strings | $399 |
| Luna Vista Deer | Acoustic | 6 Strings | $249 |
The Best Cheap Guitar: A Guide
When it comes to finding the best cheap guitar, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you need to decide what type of guitar you want. There are three main types of guitars: acoustic, electric, and bass. Acoustic guitars are the most common and are typically used for folk, country, and bluegrass music. Electric guitars are used for rock, blues, and jazz music. Bass guitars are used for funk, soul, and reggae music.
Once you know what type of guitar you want, you need to set a budget. Cheap guitars can range in price from $100 to $500. If you’re on a tight budget, you can find a decent guitar for around $200. However, if you’re willing to spend a little more, you can get a guitar that will last you for years.
Finally, you need to do your research. There are a lot of different guitar brands and models on the market, so it’s important to do your research before you buy. Read reviews, talk to other guitarists, and try out different guitars before you make a decision.
