What is the best electric guitar in 2021? With so many different models and brands on the market, it can be tough to know where to start. But don’t worry, we’ve done the research for you. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the best electric guitars on the market today.
Editor’s Notes:Finding the best electric guitar in 2021 is not a walk in the park. But don’t worry! We understand your struggle and that’s why we put together this best electric guitar 2021 guide to help you make the right decision.
We’ve analyzed the market, dug through the reviews, and talked to the experts. And we’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect electric guitar for your needs.
Key Differences
| Feature | Best Electric Guitar 2021 |
|---|---|
| Body Type | Solid body |
| Neck Type | Bolt-on |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ |
| Pickups | 2 humbuckers |
| Bridge | Tune-o-matic |
Main Article Topics
- The Different Types of Electric Guitars
- How to Choose the Right Electric Guitar
- The Best Electric Guitars for Beginners
- The Best Electric Guitars for Intermediate Players
- The Best Electric Guitars for Advanced Players
1. Body type
The body type of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors that affects its sound. Solid body guitars have a solid body, which gives them a brighter, more focused sound. Semi-hollow body guitars have a hollow body with a solid center block, which gives them a warmer, more resonant sound. Hollow body guitars have a completely hollow body, which gives them the warmest, most resonant sound.
The weight of an electric guitar is also affected by its body type. Solid body guitars are typically heavier than semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars. This is because solid body guitars have more wood in their construction. The weight of a guitar can affect its playability, so it’s important to choose a guitar that is comfortable for you to play.
The balance of an electric guitar is also affected by its body type. Solid body guitars are typically more balanced than semi-hollow body and hollow body guitars. This is because solid body guitars have a more evenly distributed weight. The balance of a guitar can affect its playability, so it’s important to choose a guitar that is well-balanced.
When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it’s important to consider the body type. The body type of a guitar will affect its sound, weight, and balance. By understanding the different body types, you can choose the guitar that is right for you.
| Body Type | Tone | Weight | Balance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid body | Bright, focused | Heavy | Good |
| Semi-hollow body | Warm, resonant | Medium | Good |
| Hollow body | Warm, resonant | Light | Poor |
2. Neck type
The neck type of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best electric guitar in 2021. The neck type can affect the guitar’s playability, tone, and sustain.
Bolt-on necks are the most common type of neck found on electric guitars. They are relatively easy to build and repair, and they offer a bright, twangy sound. Set-neck necks are glued into the body of the guitar, and they offer a warmer, more resonant sound. Neck-through necks are the most expensive type of neck, but they offer the best sustain and playability.
When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the neck type. The neck type can affect the guitar’s playability, tone, and sustain. By understanding the different neck types, you can choose the guitar that is right for you.
| Neck Type | Playability | Tone | Sustain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bolt-on | Good | Bright, twangy | Good |
| Set-neck | Good | Warm, resonant | Very good |
| Neck-through | Excellent | Warm, resonant | Excellent |
3. Scale length
The scale length of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best electric guitar in 2021. The scale length can affect the guitar’s playability, tone, and sustain.
- Tonal Impact: Scale length plays a crucial role in shaping the guitar’s tone. Longer scale lengths typically produce a brighter, tighter sound, while shorter scale lengths offer a warmer, rounder tone. This difference is due to the increased string tension on longer scale lengths, which results in a snappier attack and more pronounced harmonics.
- Playability: The scale length also affects the guitar’s playability. Longer scale lengths can be more challenging to play, especially for players with smaller hands. This is because the increased string tension requires more effort to fret and bend the strings. Conversely, shorter scale lengths are easier to play, making them a good choice for beginners or players with smaller hands.
- Sustain: The scale length can also affect the guitar’s sustain. Longer scale lengths typically have better sustain than shorter scale lengths. This is because the increased string tension on longer scale lengths helps the strings to vibrate for a longer period of time.
When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the scale length. The scale length can affect the guitar’s playability, tone, and sustain. By understanding the different scale lengths, you can choose the guitar that is right for you.
4. Pickups
The pickups on an electric guitar play a vital role in determining the overall sound of the instrument. The type of pickups used can affect the guitar’s tone, output, and even its playability. When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the type of pickups that are installed.
Single-coil pickups are the most common type of pickup found on electric guitar
s. They are relatively inexpensive to produce and they offer a bright, twangy sound. Single-coil pickups are often used in guitars that are designed for country, rock, and blues music.
Humbucker pickups are a type of dual-coil pickup that is designed to cancel out the hum that is often associated with single-coil pickups. Humbuckers offer a warmer, more powerful sound than single-coil pickups. They are often used in guitars that are designed for heavy rock, metal, and jazz music.
The type of pickups that are installed on an electric guitar can have a significant impact on the overall sound of the instrument. When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the type of music that you play and the sound that you are trying to achieve.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between single-coil and humbucker pickups:
| Pickup Type | Tone | Output | Playability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single-coil | Bright, twangy | Low | Good |
| Humbucker | Warm, powerful | High | Good |
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right pickups for your electric guitar is to try out different guitars and see what sounds best to you. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best pickups for you will depend on your personal preferences.
5. Bridge
The bridge on an electric guitar is an important part of the instrument that affects its sound, playability, and tuning stability. When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the type of bridge that is installed.
- Fixed Bridges: Fixed bridges are the most common type of bridge found on electric guitars. They are typically made of metal and are fixed in place on the body of the guitar. Fixed bridges offer good tuning stability and intonation, and they are relatively easy to maintain.
- Floating Bridges: Floating bridges are a type of bridge that is not fixed in place on the body of the guitar. Instead, they are held in place by the tension of the strings. Floating bridges allow for a wider range of adjustment than fixed bridges, and they can be used to create unique sounds and effects. However, floating bridges can be more difficult to set up and maintain than fixed bridges.
- Tone and Sustain: The type of bridge that is installed on an electric guitar can affect the tone and sustain of the instrument. Fixed bridges typically produce a brighter, more articulate sound, while floating bridges can produce a warmer, more resonant sound. Fixed bridges also tend to provide better sustain than floating bridges.
- Playability: The type of bridge that is installed on an electric guitar can also affect the playability of the instrument. Fixed bridges are typically easier to play than floating bridges, as they do not require as much adjustment. Floating bridges can be more difficult to play, but they can also allow for a wider range of playing techniques.
Ultimately, the best way to choose the right bridge for your electric guitar is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best bridge for you will depend on your personal preferences.
6. Electronics
The electronics on an electric guitar are an important part of the instrument that can affect its tone and versatility. The most common types of electronics are passive and active.
Passive electronics are the most common type of electronics found on electric guitars. They are relatively simple and inexpensive to produce, and they offer a wide range of tones. Passive electronics are typically used in guitars that are designed for traditional genres of music, such as blues, rock, and country.
Active electronics are a type of electronics that use a preamp to boost the signal from the pickups. This results in a hotter, more powerful sound. Active electronics are often used in guitars that are designed for heavier genres of music, such as metal and hard rock.
The type of electronics that are installed on an electric guitar can have a significant impact on the overall sound of the instrument. When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the type of music that you play and the sound that you are trying to achieve.
Passive electronics offer a wide range of tones, making them a good choice for guitarists who want a versatile instrument. Active electronics provide a hotter, more powerful sound, making them a good choice for guitarists who want a guitar that can handle heavier genres of music.
| Electronics Type | Tone | Versatility | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passive | Wide range of tones | Very versatile | Relatively inexpensive |
| Active | Hotter, more powerful sound | Less versatile | More expensive |
7. Hardware
When considering the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to examine the quality of its hardware. The hardware includes the tuners, knobs, and switches, and these components play a crucial role in the guitar’s overall performance and longevity.
- Durability: The hardware on an electric guitar is subject to wear and tear, especially during live performances or frequent use. High-quality hardware, such as sturdy tuners and robust knobs, can withstand the rigors of regular playing, ensuring the guitar remains in tune and functions smoothly over time.
- Playability: The hardware also affects the playability of the guitar. Smooth-operating tuners allow for quick and precise tuning adjustments, while well-designed knobs and switches facilitate easy control over volume, tone, and pickup selection. This enhances the player’s comfort and ability to express themselves musically.
- Aesthetics: The hardware can contribute to the overall aesthetic appeal of the guitar. Stylish knobs, elegant switches, and intricate tuners can complement the guitar’s design and enhance its visual appeal.
- Value: High-quality hardware can increase the value of the guitar, making it a worthwhile investment for both professional musicians and collectors. Durable and reliable hardware ensures the guitar retains its functionality and desirability over the years.
In summary, when selecting the best electric guitar in 2021, it is essential to consider the quality of the hardware. Durable, playable, and aesthetically pleasing hardware enhances the guitar’s performance, longevity, and overall value.
8. Finish
When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the finish. The finish can affect the guitar’s appearance, durability, and even its sound.
When choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it is important to consider the finish. The finish can affect the guitar’s appearance, durability, and even its sound. By understanding the different types of finishes, you can choose the guitar that is right for you.
9. Price
When it comes to choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, it’s important to consider your budget. Electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. The price of a guitar will depend on the brand, model, and features. For example, guitars from popular brands like Fender and Gibson will typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. Similarly, guitars with more features, such as multiple pickups and a tremolo bridge, will typically cost more than guitars with fewer features.
It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping for an electric guitar. This will help you narrow down your choices and focus on guitars that are within your price range. It’s also important to remember that the price of a guitar is not always an indicator of quality. There are many affordable electric guitars that offer excellent quality and performance.
If you’re not sure how much you want to spend on an electric guitar, it’s a good idea to start by looking at guitars in the $500 to $1000 price range. This price range offers a wide variety of guitars from different brands and with different features. Once you’ve had a chance to look at some guitars in this price range, you can start to narrow down your choices and decide how much you’re willing to spend.
Choosing the best electric guitar in 2021 is a matter of personal preference. There is no right or wrong answer. The best guitar for you is the one that fits your budget, playing style, and musical taste.
Key Insights:
- The price of an electric guitar can vary depending on the brand, model, and features.
- It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping for an electric guitar.
- The price of a guitar is not always an indicator of quality.
- There are many affordable electric guitars that offer excellent quality and performance.
- The best electric guitar for you is the one that fits your budget, playing style, and musical taste.
| Price Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Under $500 |
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| $500 to $1000 |
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| $1000 to $2000 |
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| Over $2000 |
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10. Brand
When it comes to choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, the brand is an important factor to consider. Different brands have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the best brand for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Some of the most popular electric guitar brands include Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, and PRS. These brands have a long history of producing high-quality guitars, and they offer a wide range of models to choose from. Fender is known for its classic designs, such as the Stratocaster and Telecaster. Gibson is known for its iconic Les Paul and SG models. Ibanez is known for its innovative designs and high-performance guitars. PRS is known for its high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail.
When choosing a brand, it is important to consider your playing style and the type of music you play. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a more affordable brand, such as Squier or Epiphone. If you are a more experienced player, you may want to invest in a higher-quality brand, such as Fender or Gibson.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a brand is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best brand for you is the one that meets your individual needs and preferences.
Key Insights:
- The brand of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best electric guitar in 2021.
- Different brands have their own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the best brand for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Some of the most popular electric guitar brands include Fender, Gibson, Ibanez, and PRS.
- When choosing a brand, it is important to consider your playing style and the type of music you play.
- The best way to choose a brand is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you.
Informative Table:
| Brand | Strengths | Weaknesses |
|---|---|---|
| Fender | Classic designs, high-quality construction, wide range of models | Can be expensive, some models may be too traditional for some players |
| Gibson | Iconic designs, high-quality construction, legendary tone | Can be expensive, some models may be too heavy for some players |
| Ibanez | Innovative designs, high-performance guitars, wide range of models | Some models may be too modern for some players, can be expensive |
| PRS | High-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, unique designs | Can be expensive, some models may be too niche for some players |
11. Model
When it comes to choosing the best electric guitar in 2021, the model is an important factor to consider. Different models have their own unique features and sound, and the best model for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Some of the most popular electric guitar models include the Fender Stratocaster, the Gibson Les Paul, the Ibanez RG, and the PRS Custom 24. These models are all known for their excellent quality and performance, and they offer a wide range of features and sounds to choose from.
When choosing a model, it is important to consider your playing style and the type of music you play. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a more versatile model, such as the Fender Stratocaster or the Gibson Les Paul. If you are a more experienced player, you may want to choose a model that is more specialized for your playing style, such as the Ibanez RG or the PRS Custom 24.
Ultimately, the best way to choose a model is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best model for you is the one that meets your individual needs and preferences.
Key Insights:
- The model of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best electric guitar in 2021.
- Different models have their own unique features and sound, and the best model for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
- Some of the most popular electric guitar models include the Fender Stratocaster, the Gibson Les Paul, the Ibanez RG, and the PRS Custom 24.
- When choosing a model, it is important to consider your playing style and the type of music you play.
- The best way to choose a model is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best to you.
Informative Table:
| Model | Features | Sound |
|---|---|---|
| Fender Stratocaster | Single-coil pickups, bolt-on neck, tremolo bridge | Bright, twangy sound |
| Gibson Les Paul | Humbucker pickups, set-neck, tune-o-matic bridge | Warm, thick sound |
| Ibanez RG | Humbucker pickups, bolt-on neck, Floyd Rose bridge | Aggressive, high-output sound |
| PRS Custom 24 | Humbucker and single-coil pickups, set-neck, tremolo bridge | Versatile sound, suitable for a wide range of genres |
12. Reviews
Reading reviews of different electric guitars before you make a purchase is a great way to get an idea of the guitar’s quality, playability, and sound. This is especially important if you are buying a guitar online or from a store where you cannot try it out before you buy it.
Reviews can give you valuable insights into the guitar’s construction, materials, and overall performance. They can also help you identify any potential problems or issues with the guitar. By reading reviews, you can make an informed decision about whether or not the guitar is right for you.
When reading reviews, it is important to keep in mind that everyone has different opinions and preferences. What one person loves, another person may hate. It is also important to consider the source of the review. Is it from a reputable website or magazine? Or is it from a random person on the internet? Once you have read a few reviews, you should be able to get a good idea of the overall consensus about the guitar.
Reading reviews is just one part of the research process when buying an electric guitar. You should also try out the guitar in person if possible. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the guitar and see how it sounds. By doing your research and reading reviews, you can make sure that you choose the best electric guitar for your needs.
Key Insights:
- Reading reviews of different electric guitars before you make a purchase can help you get an idea of the guitar’s quality, playability, and sound.
- Reviews can give you valuable insights into the guitar’s construction, materials, and overall performance.
- It is important to keep in mind that everyone has different opinions and preferences when reading reviews.
- You should also try out the guitar in person if possible before making a purchase.
Practical Significance:
- By reading reviews, you can make an informed decision about whether or not the guitar is right for you.
- Reading reviews can help you avoid buying a guitar that you are not happy with.
- Reading reviews can help you get the best possible guitar for your money.
FAQs on the Best Electric Guitar 2021
Finding the best electric guitar in 2021 can be an overwhelming task. With so many different brands, models, and features to choose from, it’s easy to get lost in the details. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about electric guitars.
Question 1: What are the most important factors to consider when choosing an electric guitar?
When choosing an electric guitar, there are several key factors to consider, including the body type, neck type, scale length, pickups, bridge, electronics, hardware, finish, price, brand, and model. Each of these factors can affect the guitar’s sound, playability, and overall quality.
Question 2: What is the best body type for an electric guitar?
The best body type for an electric guitar depends on the player’s individual preferences. The three most common body types are solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. Solid body guitars are known for their bright, focused sound, while semi-hollow body guitars offer a warmer, more resonant sound. Hollow body guitars produce the warmest, most resonant sound.
Question 3: What is the difference between a bolt-on neck and a set-neck?
A bolt-on neck is attached to the body of the guitar with screws, while a set-neck is glued in place. Bolt-on necks are easier to remove and replace, while set-necks typically provide a more stable and resonant sound.
Question 4: What is the ideal scale length for an electric guitar?
The scale length of an electric guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. The most common scale lengths are 24.75 inches and 25.5 inches. Longer scale lengths produce a brighter, tighter sound, while shorter scale lengths produce a warmer, rounder sound.
Question 5: What are the different types of pickups used in electric guitars?
The two most common types of pickups used in electric guitars are single-coil pickups and humbucker pickups. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, twangy sound, while humbucker pickups produce a warmer, more powerful sound.
Question 6: What are the advantages and disadvantages of fixed bridges and floating bridges?
Fixed bridges are more stable and provide better tuning stability, while floating bridges allow for a wider range of adjustment and can be used to create unique sounds and effects.
By understanding the answers to these FAQs, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the best electric guitar for your needs.
Transition to the next article section:
Now that you have a better understanding of the key factors t
o consider when choosing an electric guitar, you can start narrowing down your options and finding the perfect guitar for you.
Tips for Choosing the Best Electric Guitar in 2021
Finding the best electric guitar in 2021 can be a daunting task. With so many different brands, models, and features to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. However, by following a few simple tips, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Tip 1: Consider Your Playing Style and Musical Goals
The first step in choosing an electric guitar is to consider your playing style and musical goals. What kind of music do you want to play? Do you want a guitar that is versatile enough to handle a variety of genres, or do you want a guitar that is specifically designed for a particular style of music? Once you have a good understanding of your playing style and musical goals, you can start to narrow down your options.
Tip 2: Set a Budget
Electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you do not overspend. Once you have a budget, you can start to look at guitars that are within your price range.
Tip 3: Do Your Research
There are a wealth of resources available online and in print that can help you learn more about electric guitars. Read reviews, watch videos, and talk to other guitar players to get their insights. The more you know about electric guitars, the better equipped you will be to make an informed decision.
Tip 4: Try Out Different Guitars
The best way to find the right electric guitar for you is to try out different guitars and see what feels and sounds best. Visit a local guitar store and try out as many different guitars as you can. Pay attention to the guitar’s weight, balance, and neck shape. Also, be sure to play the guitar through a variety of amplifiers to get a sense of its sound.
Tip 5: Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If you are not sure which electric guitar is right for you, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Talk to a guitar teacher, a salesperson at a local guitar store, or another experienced guitar player. They can help you narrow down your options and find the perfect guitar for your needs.
By following these tips, you can find the best electric guitar in 2021 for your needs and playing style.
Conclusion:
Choosing the best electric guitar in 2021 is a personal decision that depends on a variety of factors. By considering your playing style, musical goals, budget, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect guitar that will help you reach your musical goals.
Conclusion
The search for the best electric guitar in 2021 is a journey of exploration and discovery. By understanding the key factors that influence an electric guitar’s sound, playability, and overall quality, you can make an informed decision that will help you find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, there is an electric guitar out there that will help you reach your musical goals. Take the time to explore your options, try out different guitars, and talk to other guitar players. With a little research and effort, you can find the best electric guitar in 2021 for your unique playing style and musical aspirations.
