When it comes to choosing the best entry level electric guitar, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. First, consider your budget. Entry-level electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Editor’s Notes: Choosing the best entry level electric guitar is important because it can make a big difference in your learning experience. A good guitar will be easy to play and will sound good, which will make you more likely to stick with it. On the other hand, a bad guitar can be frustrating to play and will make it difficult to learn.
We’ve done the research and analysis for you, and we’ve put together this guide to the best entry level electric guitars. We’ve considered factors such as price, quality, and features to help you make the best decision for your needs.
Key Differences or Key Takeaways
| Price | $200-$1,000 |
| Quality | Good to excellent |
| Features | Varies depending on model |
Main Article Topics
- What to look for when choosing an entry level electric guitar
- Reviews of the best entry level electric guitars
- Tips for getting started on electric guitar
1. Price
The price of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. Entry-level electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
There are a few things to keep in mind when setting a budget for an entry-level electric guitar. First, consider how much you are willing to spend on a guitar. Second, consider your skill level and what you hope to achieve with the guitar. If you are a beginner, you may not need to spend a lot of money on a guitar. However, if you are more experienced, you may want to invest in a higher quality guitar that will last longer and sound better.
Once you have set a budget, you can start shopping for an entry-level electric guitar. There are many different brands and models of electric guitars available, so it’s important to do your research and find a guitar that is right for you. Consider the factors discussed in the previous section, such as quality, features, and brand. You should also try out different guitars to see which one feels the most comfortable to play.
By following these tips, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget.
Key Insights
- The price of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar.
- Entry-level electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
- It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
- When setting a budget, consider how much you are willing to spend on a guitar and your skill level.
- There are many different brands and models of electric guitars available, so it’s important to do your research and find a guitar that is right for you.
Challenges
- One of the challenges of choosing the best entry level electric guitar is that there are so many different options available.
- It can be difficult to know which guitar is right for you, especially if you are a beginner.
- Another challenge is that electric guitars can be expensive.
- It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Practical Applications
- The information in this article can help you choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget.
- By following the tips in this article, you can avoid overspending and find a guitar that you will enjoy playing for many years to come.
2. Quality
The quality of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. A well-made guitar will be more durable and will sound better than a poorly made guitar. It’s important to choose a guitar that is made from high-quality materials and that is constructed using sound construction methods.
There are a few things to look for when assessing the quality of an electric guitar. First, look at the materials used to make the guitar. The body of the guitar should be made from a solid wood, such as mahogany or alder. The neck should be made from a hardwood, such as maple or rosewood. The fretboard should be made from a durable material, such as ebony or rosewood.
Next, look at the construction methods used to make the guitar. The guitar should be well-assembled and the finish should be smooth and even. The frets should be properly seated and the intonation should be correct.
By choosing a well-made electric guitar, you can ensure that you have a guitar that will last for many years and that will sound great.
Key Insights
- The quality of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar.
- A well-made guitar will be more durable and will sound better than a poorly made guitar.
- It’s important to choose a guitar that is made from high-quality materials and that is constructed using sound construction methods.
Challenges
- One of the challenges of choosing a quality electric guitar is that there are many different options available.
- It can be difficult to know which guitar is right for you, especially if you are a beginner.
- Another challenge is that quality electric guitars can be expensive.
- It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend.
Practical Applications
- The information in this article can help you choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget.
- By following the tips in this article, you can avoid overspending and find a guitar that you will enjoy playing for many years to come.
Table: Quality Factors of Electric Guitars
| Factor | Good | Excellent |
| Body Material | Mahogany | Alder |
| Neck Material | Maple | Rosewood |
| Fretboard Material | Ebony | Rosewood |
| Construction | Well-assembled | Smooth and even finish |
| Frets | Properly seated | Correct intonation |
3. Features
When choosing the best entry level electric guitar, it is important to consider the features that are important to you. Some of the most common features to consider include:
- Pickups: Pickups are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. There are two main types of pickups: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coil pickups are known for their bright, twangy sound, while humbuckers are known for their warmer, fuller sound.
- Bridge: The bridge is responsible for holding the strings in place and transferring their vibrations to the body of the guitar. There are two main types of bridges: fixed and floating. Fixed bridges are more common on entry-level electric guitars, while floating bridges are more common on higher-end guitars.
- Tuners: Tuners are used to keep the guitar in tune. There are two main types of tuners: mechanical and locking. Mechanical tuners are more common on entry-level electric guitars, while locking tuners are more common on higher-end guitars.
By considering the features that are important to you, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Practical Applications
- The information in this article can help you choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
- By following the tips in this article, you can avoid overspending and find a guitar that you will enjoy playing for many years to come.
Table: Features of Electric Guitars
| Feature | Good | Excellent |
| Pickups | Single-coil | Humbucker |
| Bridge | Fixed | Floating |
| Tuners | Mechanical | Locking |
4. Brand
The brand of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. There are many different brands of electric guitars available, each with its own unique sound and feel. Some of the most popular brands include Fender, Gibson, Epiphone, and Squier.
When choosing a brand, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. Do you prefer the bright, twangy sound of a Fender Telecaster, or the warm, full sound of a Gibson Les Paul? Once you have considered your own preferences, you can start to narrow down your choices.
It is also important to consider the reputation of the brand. Some brands are known for their high-quality guitars, while others are known for their more affordable guitars. Do some research online to see what other people have to say about the brand you are considering.
By considering the factors discussed above, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Practical Significance
Choosing the right brand of electric guitar is an important decision. The brand you choose will affect the sound, feel, and playability of your guitar. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Table: Electric Guitar Brands
| Brand | Known For |
|---|---|
| Fender | Bright, twangy sound |
| Gibson | Warm, full sound |
| Epiphone | Affordable guitars |
| Squier | Affordable guitars |
5. Body style
The body style of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. The body style will affect the sound, feel, and weight of the guitar. It is important to choose a body style that you like the look of and that is comfortable to play.
Solid body guitars are the most common type of electric guitar. They have a solid body made of wood, metal, or composite materials. Solid body guitars are known for their bright, twangy sound. They are also relatively lightweight and easy to play.
Semi-hollow body guitars have a hollow body with a solid center block. This gives them a warmer, fuller sound than solid body guitars. Semi-hollow body guitars are also lighter than solid body guitars, but they are more prone to feedback.
Hollow body guitars have a completely hollow body. This gives them a warm, resonant sound. Hollow body guitars are the heaviest type of electric guitar, and they are also the most prone to feedback.
When choosing the body style of an electric guitar, it is important to consider your own personal preferences. Do you prefer the bright, twangy sound of a solid body guitar, the warm, full sound of a semi-hollow body guitar, or the warm, resonant sound of a hollow body guitar? Once you have considered your own preferences, you can start to narrow down your choices.
It is also important to consider the comfort of the guitar. Some body styles are more comfortable to play than others. For example, solid body guitars are typically more comfortable to play than hollow body guitars. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a guitar with a body style that is comfortable to play.
By considering the factors discussed above, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Practical Significance
Choosing the right body style for an electric guitar is an important decision. The body style will affect the sound, feel, and weight of the guitar. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Table: Electric Guitar Body Styles
| Body Style | Sound | Weight | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solid body | Bright, twangy | Lightweight | Comfortable |
| Semi-hollow body | Warm, full | Lighter than solid body | Less comfortable than solid body |
| Hollow body | Warm, resonant | Heavy | Least comfortable |
6. Neck shape
The neck shape of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. The neck shape will affect how the guitar feels in your hand and how easy it is to play. There are many different neck shapes available, so it is important to try out a few different guitars to find one that is comfortable for you.
Some of the most common neck shapes include:
- C-sha
pe: This is the most common neck shape and is found on many entry-level electric guitars. It is a relatively thin and rounded neck that is comfortable to play for most people. - D-shape: This neck shape is thicker and more rounded than a C-shape neck. It is often found on higher-end electric guitars and is preferred by some players for its increased stability and sustain.
- V-shape: This neck shape is thinner and more angular than a C-shape neck. It is often found on metal guitars and is preferred by some players for its fast and aggressive feel.
Ultimately, the best neck shape for you is a matter of personal preference. It is important to try out a few different guitars to find a neck shape that is comfortable for you and that suits your playing style.
Practical Significance
Choosing the right neck shape for an electric guitar is an important decision. The neck shape will affect how the guitar feels in your hand and how easy it is to play. By understanding the different neck shapes available, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs.
Table: Electric Guitar Neck Shapes
| Neck Shape | Description | Commonly Found On |
|---|---|---|
| C-shape | Thin and rounded | Entry-level electric guitars |
| D-shape | Thicker and more rounded than a C-shape neck | Higher-end electric guitars |
| V-shape | Thinner and more angular than a C-shape neck | Metal guitars |
7. Scale length
The scale length of an electric guitar is an important factor to consider when choosing the best entry level electric guitar. The scale length will affect the tension of the strings and the overall playability of the guitar. It is important to choose a scale length that is comfortable for you and that suits your playing style.
- Comfort: The scale length of an electric guitar will affect how comfortable it is to play. A shorter scale length will make the strings feel looser and easier to bend, while a longer scale length will make the strings feel tighter and more difficult to bend. It is important to choose a scale length that feels comfortable for you.
- Playability: The scale length of an electric guitar will also affect the playability of the guitar. A shorter scale length will make the guitar easier to play for beginners, while a longer scale length will make the guitar more difficult to play. It is important to choose a scale length that suits your playing style.
- Tone: The scale length of an electric guitar will also affect the tone of the guitar. A shorter scale length will produce a warmer, rounder tone, while a longer scale length will produce a brighter, more articulate tone. It is important to choose a scale length that produces the tone you want.
Ultimately, the best scale length for you is a matter of personal preference. It is important to try out a few different guitars with different scale lengths to find one that is comfortable for you and that suits your playing style.
8. Electronics
The electronics of an electric guitar are an important part of the instrument’s overall sound. The pickups, which are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, have a major impact on the guitar’s tone. The preamp, which boosts the signal from the pickups, also plays a role in shaping the guitar’s sound. And the output jack, which connects the guitar to an amplifier, can also affect the sound quality.
When choosing the best entry level electric guitar, it is important to consider the electronics of the instrument. If you are looking for a guitar with a bright, twangy sound, you will want to choose a guitar with single-coil pickups. If you are looking for a guitar with a warm, full sound, you will want to choose a guitar with humbucker pickups. And if you are looking for a guitar with a versatile sound, you will want to choose a guitar with both single-coil and humbucker pickups.
It is also important to consider the quality of the electronics in an electric guitar. Cheap electronics can produce a thin, weak sound. High-quality electronics, on the other hand, can produce a rich, full sound. If you are serious about playing electric guitar, it is worth investing in a guitar with high-quality electronics.
The following are some examples of the best entry level electric guitars with high-quality electronics:
- Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster
- Epiphone Les Paul Special II
- Yamaha Pacifica 012
- Ibanez GRX20
- Schecter C-1
These guitars all feature high-quality pickups, preamps, and output jacks. They are also all relatively affordable, making them a great option for beginners and experienced players alike.
The electronics of an electric guitar are an important part of the instrument’s overall sound. By choosing a guitar with high-quality electronics, you can ensure that you get the sound you want.
Table: Electronics and Electric Guitar Sound
| Electronic Component | Effect on Sound |
|---|---|
| Pickups | Converts the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. |
| Preamp | Boosts the signal from the pickups. |
| Output Jack | Connects the guitar to an amplifier. |
9. Accessories
Accessories are an essential part of any electric guitar setup. They can help you protect your guitar from damage, make it more comfortable to play, and improve your overall playing experience. When choosing accessories for your electric guitar, it is important to consider the quality of the materials used and the construction of the accessory. You should also consider your own personal preferences and playing style.
One of the most important accessories for an electric guitar is a case. A good case will protect your guitar from scratches, dents, and other damage. It will also provide a safe and secure place to store your guitar when you are not playing it. There are many different types of cases available, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Another important accessory for an electric guitar is a strap. A strap will help you keep your guitar in place while you are playing. It will also make it more comfortable to play for long periods of time. There are many different types of straps available, so you can choose one that is comfortable and stylish.
Picks are also an essential accessory for electric guitar players. Picks are used to pluck the strings of the guitar. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that is comfortable for you and that produces the sound you want. It is important to choose a pick that is made from a high-quality material, such as nylon or celluloid.
By choosing high-quality accessories for your electric guitar, you can protect your investment and improve your playing experience.
Key Insights
- Accessories are an essential part of any electric guitar setup.
- Accessories can help you protect your guitar from damage, make it more comfortable to play, and improve your overall playing experience.
- When choosing accessories for your electric guitar, it is important to consider the quality of the materials used and the construction of the accessory.
- You should also consider your own personal preferences and playing style.
Table: Accessories for Electric Guitars
| Accessory | Purpose | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Case | Protects the guitar from damage | Provides a safe and secure place to store the guitar |
| Strap | Keeps the guitar in place while playing | Makes it more comfortable to play for long periods of time |
| Picks | Used to pluck the strings of the guitar | Come in a variety of shapes and sizes to produce different sounds |
FAQs About Best Entry Level Electric Guitar
Choosing the best entry level electric guitar can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. 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 entry level electric guitar?
There are several important factors to consider when choosing an entry level electric guitar, including price, quality, features, brand, body style, neck shape, scale length, electronics, and accessories.
Question 2: How much should I spend on my first electric guitar?
Entry-level electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend. Consider your skill level and what you hope to achieve with the guitar when setting a budget.
Question 3: What are some good brands of entry level electric guitars?
There are many reputable brands of entry level electric guitars available, including Fender, Gibson, Epiphone, and Squier. When choosing a brand, it is important to consider your own personal preferences and playing style.
Question 4: What are the different types of electric guitar body styles?
Electric guitars come in a variety of body styles, including solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. Solid body guitars are the most common type of electric guitar and are known for their bright, twangy sound. Semi-hollow body guitars have a hollow body with a solid center block, which gives them a warmer, fuller sound. Hollow body guitars have a completely hollow body, which gives them a warm, resonant sound.
Question 5: What is the difference between a C-shape and a D-shape neck?
The neck shape of an electric guitar will affect how it feels to play. C-shape necks are the most common neck shape and are found on many entry-level electric guitars. They are a relatively thin and rounded neck that is comfortable to play for most people. D-shape necks are thicker and more rounded than C-shape necks. They are often found on higher-end electric guitars and are preferred by some players for their increased stability and sustain.
Question 6: What is the best scale length for an entry level electric guitar?
The scale length of an electric guitar is the distance between the nut and the bridge. A shorter scale length will make the strings feel looser and easier to bend, while a longer scale length will make the strings feel tighter and more difficult to bend. It is important to choose a scale length that is comfortable for you and that suits your playing style.
We hope this FAQ has helped you learn more about entry level electric guitars. If you have any other questions, please feel free to contact us.
Transition to the next article section: Choosing the right electric guitar can be a challenging task, but it is also an exciting one. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget.
Tips for Choosing the Best Entry Level Electric Guitar
Choosing the best entry level electric guitar can be a daunting task, but it is also an exciting one. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and budget.
Tip 1: Set a budget.
Entry-level electric guitars can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping so that you don’t overspend. Consider your skill level and what you hope to achieve with the guitar when setting a budget.
Tip 2: Consider your playing style.
Different guitars are suited to different playing styles. If you are a beginner, you may want to choose a guitar that is easy to play and has a versatile sound. If you are more experienced, you may want to choose a guitar that is more suited to your specific playing style.
Tip 3: Try out different guitars.
The best way to choose an electric guitar is to try out different models and see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best to you. Bring a friend or family member with you to help you make a decision.
Tip 4: Read reviews.
Once you have tried out a few different guitars, read reviews from other users to get their opinions on the guitars you are considering. This can help you make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you are not sure which electric guitar to choose, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or music teacher. They can help you choose a guitar that is right for your needs and budget.
Summary of Key Takeaways
- Set a budget before you start shopping.
- Consider your playing style when choosing a guitar.
- Try out different guitars to find one that feels comfortable and sounds good to you.
- Read reviews from other users to get their opinions on the guitars you are considering.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or music teacher.
Transition to the Conclusion
Choosing the best entry level electric guitar can be a challenging task, but it is also an exciting one. By following these tips, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and budget.
Conclusion
Choosing the best entry level electric guitar can be a daunting task, but it is also an exciting one. By considering the factors discussed in this article, you can choose the right guitar for your needs and budget.
When choosing an entry level electric guitar, it is important to consider the price, quality, features, brand, body style, neck shape, scale length, electronics, and accessories. It is also important to try out different guitars and read reviews from other users. By following these tips, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget.
The electric guitar is a versatile and expressive instrument that can be used to play a wide variety of musical genres. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced player, choosing the right electric guitar is essential to your playing experience. By following the tips in this article, you can choose the best entry level electric guitar for your needs and budget and start your journey to becoming a great guitarist.
