Are you looking for a good quality electric guitar but don’t want to spend a lot of money? If so, then you should definitely consider getting a $200 electric guitar.
Editor’s Note:$200 electric guitars are a great option for beginners and experienced players alike. They offer a great balance of quality and affordability, and they can be used for a wide variety of genres.
We’ve done the research and put together this guide to help you find the best $200 electric guitar for your needs. We’ve included guitars from a variety of brands and styles, so you’re sure to find one that’s perfect for you.
Here are some of the key differences between the guitars we reviewed:
| Feature | Guitar A | Guitar B | Guitar C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Solid Body | Semi-Hollow Body | Hollow Body |
| Neck Type | Bolt-On | Set-Neck | Through-Neck |
| Pickups | Single-Coil | Humbucker | P90 |
| Bridge Type | Fixed | Tremolo | Floyd Rose |
Once you’ve considered the key differences between the guitars, you can start to narrow down your choices. Think about what kind of music you want to play, what your budget is, and what your playing style is. Once you’ve answered these questions, you can start to look at specific guitars.
1. Body type
The body type of an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound and feel. Solid body guitars are the most common type, and they are known for their bright, twangy sound. Semi-hollow body guitars have a hollow chamber in the body, which gives them a warmer, more resonant sound. Hollow body guitars have a fully hollow body, which gives them the warmest, most resonant sound.
For a $200 electric guitar, a solid body is the best option. Solid body guitars are more affordable than semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars, and they are also more durable.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body guitars:
| Body Type | Sound | Feel | Price | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solid body | Bright, twangy | Solid, heavy | $200-$500 | High |
| Semi-hollow body | Warm, resonant | Semi-solid, medium weight | $300-$600 | Medium |
| Hollow body | Warm, resonant | Hollow, lightweight | $400-$700 | Low |
2. Neck type
The neck type of an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound, feel, and playability. There are three main types of neck construction: bolt-on, set-neck, and through-neck.
- Bolt-on necks are the most common type of neck construction. They are attached to the body of the guitar with screws or bolts. Bolt-on necks are relatively easy to remove and replace, which makes them a good option for guitarists who want to experiment with different necks.
- Set-necks are glued to the body of the guitar. They are more difficult to remove and replace than bolt-on necks, but they provide a stronger connection between the neck and the body. Set-necks are often used on guitars that are intended to be played at high volumes or with heavy strings.
- Through-necks are a hybrid of bolt-on and set-necks. They are glued to the body of the guitar, but they also extend through the body to the back of the guitar. Through-necks provide the best of both worlds: they are strong and durable like set-necks, but they are also relatively easy to remove and replace like bolt-on necks.
For a $200 electric guitar, a bolt-on neck is the best option. Bolt-on necks are more affordable than set-necks and through-necks, and they are also easier to remove and replace. This makes them a good option for guitarists who are on a budget or who want to be able to experiment with different necks.
3. Pickups
The type of pickups used in an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound, while humbuckers are known for their warmer, more powerful sound. P90 pickups are a hybrid of single-coil and humbuckers, and they offer a unique blend of both sounds.
For a $200 electric guitar, single-coil pickups are the best option. Single-coil pickups are more affordable than humbuckers and P90s, and they are also easier to find. This makes them a good option for guitarists who are on a budget or who want to be able to experiment with different pickups.
Here is a table summarizing the key differences between single-coil, humbucker, and P90 pickups:
| Pickup Type | Sound | Price | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-coil | Bright, twangy | $50-$100 | High |
| Humbucker | Warm, powerful | $100-$150 | Medium |
| P90 | Hybrid of single-coil and humbuckers | $150-$200 | Low |
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right pickups for your $200 electric guitar is to try out a few different guitars and see what sounds best to you.
4. Bridge type
The bridge type of an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound, feel, and playability. There are three main types of bridges: fixed, tremolo, and Floyd Rose.
- Fixed bridges are the most common type of bridge. They are fixed to the body of the guitar and cannot be moved. This makes them very stable and reliable, but it also limits the player’s ability to create vibrato or other pitch effects.
- Tremolo bridges are also known as “floating bridges” because they are not fixed to the body of the guitar. This allows the player to move the bridge back and forth to create vibrato and other pitch effects. Tremolo bridges are more versatile than fixed bridges, but they can also be more difficult to keep in tune.
- Floyd Rose bridges are a type of tremolo bridge that i
s designed to stay in tune even when the player is using extreme pitch effects. Floyd Rose bridges are very popular with metal guitarists, but they can be more difficult to set up and maintain than other types of bridges.
For a $200 electric guitar, a fixed bridge is the best option. Fixed bridges are more affordable than tremolo and Floyd Rose bridges, and they are also easier to keep in tune. This makes them a good option for guitarists who are on a budget or who want a guitar that is easy to play and maintain.
5. Scale length
The scale length of an electric guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. It has a significant impact on the sound, feel, and playability of the guitar. Guitars with shorter scale lengths have a brighter, twangier sound, while guitars with longer scale lengths have a warmer, more resonant sound. Guitars with shorter scale lengths are also easier to play, making them a good choice for beginners.
- 24.75 inches: This is the most common scale length for electric guitars. It offers a good balance of sound, feel, and playability.
- 25.5 inches: This scale length is slightly longer than 24.75 inches, and it produces a warmer, more resonant sound. Guitars with 25.5-inch scale lengths are often used for jazz and blues.
- 27 inches: This is the longest scale length commonly used for electric guitars. It produces the warmest, most resonant sound. Guitars with 27-inch scale lengths are often used for heavy metal and rock.
When choosing a scale length for a $200 electric guitar, it is important to consider the type of music you want to play. If you want to play rock or metal, then a guitar with a longer scale length (25.5 inches or 27 inches) would be a good choice. If you want to play jazz or blues, then a guitar with a shorter scale length (24.75 inches) would be a better choice.
6. Fretboard Radius
The fretboard radius of an electric guitar is the curvature of the fretboard from side to side. It is measured in inches, and it has a significant impact on the feel and playability of the guitar.
- 9.5 inches: This is the most common fretboard radius for electric guitars. It offers a good balance of comfort and playability. Guitars with a 9.5-inch fretboard radius are suitable for a wide range of playing styles.
- 12 inches: This fretboard radius is slightly flatter than a 9.5-inch radius. It is often used on guitars that are designed for shredding or other fast-paced playing styles. Guitars with a 12-inch fretboard radius can be more difficult to play for beginners, but they can offer greater speed and accuracy for experienced players.
- 16 inches: This fretboard radius is the flattest of the three options. It is often used on guitars that are designed for jazz or blues. Guitars with a 16-inch fretboard radius can be more comfortable to play for players with large hands, and they can also produce a warmer, more mellow sound.
When choosing a fretboard radius for a $200 electric guitar, it is important to consider the type of music you want to play and your playing style. If you are a beginner, then a guitar with a 9.5-inch fretboard radius would be a good choice. If you are an experienced player who wants to play fast-paced music, then a guitar with a 12-inch fretboard radius would be a better choice. And if you are a jazz or blues player, then a guitar with a 16-inch fretboard radius would be a good option.
7. Number of Frets
The number of frets on an electric guitar has a significant impact on its sound, feel, and playability. Guitars with more frets have a wider range of notes available, which can be useful for playing complex solos or chords. However, guitars with more frets can also be more difficult to play, especially for beginners.
- 21 frets: This is the most common number of frets on a $200 electric guitar. It offers a good balance of range and playability, making it a good choice for a wide range of players.
- 22 frets: Guitars with 22 frets have one more fret than guitars with 21 frets, which gives them a slightly wider range of notes. This can be useful for playing complex solos or chords, but it can also make the guitar more difficult to play, especially for beginners.
- 24 frets: Guitars with 24 frets have three more frets than guitars with 21 frets, which gives them a much wider range of notes. This can be useful for playing complex solos or chords, but it can also make the guitar more difficult to play, especially for beginners.
When choosing the number of frets on a $200 electric guitar, it is important to consider your playing style and the type of music you want to play. If you are a beginner, then a guitar with 21 frets would be a good choice. If you are an experienced player who wants to play complex solos or chords, then a guitar with 22 or 24 frets would be a better choice.
8. Hardware
The hardware on a $200 electric guitar is an important consideration, as it can affect the guitar’s appearance, durability, and playability. The three most common hardware colors are chrome, black, and gold.
- Chrome is a classic hardware color that is often used on guitars of all types. It is a versatile color that can match any finish, and it is relatively easy to clean and maintain.
- Black is another popular hardware color, especially on guitars with a dark finish. It is a more understated color than chrome, and it can give the guitar a more modern look.
- Gold is a less common hardware color, but it can be a good choice for guitars with a vintage or classic look. It is a more expensive color than chrome or black, and it can be more difficult to clean and maintain.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right hardware color for your $200 electric guitar is to consider the guitar’s finish and your personal preferences.
9. Weight
The weight of a $200 electric guitar is an important consideration, as it can affect the guitar’s comfort, playability, and sound. Guitars that are too heavy can be uncomfortable to play for long periods of time, and they can also be more difficult to control. Guitars that are too light can feel flimsy and lack sustain.
The ideal weight for a $200 electric guitar is between 7 and 9 pounds. This weight range provides a good balance of comfort, playability, and sound. Guitars that are 5 pounds or less are typically considered to be too light, while guitars that are 9 pounds or more are typically considered to be too heavy.
The weight of a guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the body type, the neck type
, the hardware, and the pickups. Solid body guitars are typically heavier than semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars. Guitars with set necks are typically heavier than guitars with bolt-on necks. Guitars with heavy hardware and pickups are typically heavier than guitars with lighter hardware and pickups.
When choosing a $200 electric guitar, it is important to consider the weight of the guitar and how it will affect your comfort, playability, and sound. If you are unsure about the weight of a particular guitar, you can always ask to try it out before you buy it.
Here is a table summarizing the key points discussed above:
| Weight | Comfort | Playability | Sound |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 pounds or less | Uncomfortable to play for long periods of time | Difficult to control | Lacks sustain |
| 7 to 9 pounds | Comfortable to play for long periods of time | Easy to control | Good balance of sustain and resonance |
| 9 pounds or more | Uncomfortable to play for long periods of time | Difficult to control | Too much sustain and resonance |
10. Price
The price of a 200 dollar electric guitar is a significant factor to consider when choosing an instrument. While there are many guitars available at this price point, not all of them are created equal. It is important to do your research and compare different models before making a decision.
- Quality: The quality of a 200 dollar electric guitar can vary greatly depending on the brand, materials, and construction. Some guitars are made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, while others are made with cheaper materials and construction. It is important to read reviews and compare different models before making a decision.
- Features: The features of a 200 dollar electric guitar can also vary greatly. Some guitars come with a variety of features, such as different pickups, bridge types, and neck shapes. Others come with fewer features. It is important to consider what features are important to you before making a decision.
- Sound: The sound of a 200 dollar electric guitar can also vary greatly. Some guitars have a bright, twangy sound, while others have a warm, mellow sound. It is important to listen to different guitars before making a decision.
- Playability: The playability of a 200 dollar electric guitar is also an important factor to consider. Some guitars are easy to play, while others are more difficult. It is important to find a guitar that is comfortable to play and that you enjoy playing.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a 200 dollar electric guitar is to try out different models and see what you like. There are many great guitars available at this price point, so you are sure to find one that is perfect for you.
FAQs About 200 Dollar Electric Guitars
This comprehensive FAQ section addresses common concerns and misconceptions associated with 200 dollar electric guitars, providing clear and informative answers to guide your decision-making process.
Question 1: Are 200 dollar electric guitars any good?
Yes, there are many excellent 200 dollar electric guitars available. While they may not have all the features or quality of more expensive models, they offer a great balance of affordability, quality, and playability for beginner and intermediate players.
Question 2: What are the key factors to consider when choosing a 200 dollar electric guitar?
When selecting a 200 dollar electric guitar, consider factors such as body type, neck type, pickups, bridge type, fretboard radius, number of frets, hardware, weight, and price. Each of these factors influences the guitar’s sound, feel, and playability.
Question 3: Are there any specific brands or models of 200 dollar electric guitars that are recommended?
Several reputable brands offer high-quality 200 dollar electric guitars. Some popular and reliable options include Squier, Epiphone, Yamaha, and Ibanez. Specific models to consider include the Squier Affinity Stratocaster, Epiphone Les Paul Special II, Yamaha Pacifica Series, and Ibanez GRX20.
Question 4: Can 200 dollar electric guitars be used for professional playing?
While 200 dollar electric guitars are suitable for practice and recreational playing, they may not be the ideal choice for professional musicians. Professional guitarists typically require instruments with higher quality components, more advanced features, and greater durability.
Question 5: Is it better to buy a used or new 200 dollar electric guitar?
Both new and used 200 dollar electric guitars have advantages and disadvantages. New guitars offer the peace of mind of being in pristine condition and come with a warranty. Used guitars may be available at a lower price and may have been professionally set up or upgraded.
Question 6: Where is the best place to buy a 200 dollar electric guitar?
You can purchase 200 dollar electric guitars from various sources, including online retailers, music stores, and pawn shops. It’s recommended to compare prices and read reviews from other customers before making a decision.
In summary, 200 dollar electric guitars provide an excellent starting point for aspiring guitarists. By considering the key factors and exploring different brands and models, you can find an instrument that meets your needs and allows you to embark on your musical journey with confidence.
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Tips for Choosing a 200 Dollar Electric Guitar
Selecting a 200 dollar electric guitar requires careful consideration and research. Here are some essential tips to guide your decision-making process:
