Searching for an affordable electric guitar? Look no further than electric guitars under $200.
Editor’s Note:Electric guitars under $200 are a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. They offer a great way to learn the basics of playing electric guitar without breaking the bank.
We’ve done the research and dug through the information to put together this guide to help you make the right decision.
Key Differences:
| Feature | Electric Guitar Under $200 | More Expensive Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Typically made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood | Typically made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder |
| Neck | Typically made of maple or rosewood | Typically made of higher-quality woods, such as ebony or rosewood |
| Pickups | Typically single-coil pickups | Typically humbucking pickups |
| Hardware | Typically cheaper hardware, such as tuners and bridges | Typically higher-quality hardware, such as locking tuners and tremolo bridges |
Main Article Topics:
- Benefits of electric guitars under $200
- Things to consider when choosing an electric guitar under $200
- Reviews of the best electric guitars under $200
- Tips for getting the most out of your electric guitar under $200
1. Body
The body of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors that affects the sound of the guitar. The type of wood used for the body can affect the tone, sustain, and resonance of the guitar. Less expensive guitars are typically made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood, which can produce a thinner, brighter sound. More expensive guitars are typically made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder, which can produce a warmer, richer sound.
- Tone: The type of wood used for the body of an electric guitar can affect the tone of the guitar. Less expensive guitars made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood, typically have a thinner, brighter sound. More expensive guitars made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder, typically have a warmer, richer sound.
- Sustain: The type of wood used for the body of an electric guitar can also affect the sustain of the guitar. Less expensive guitars made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood, typically have a shorter sustain. More expensive guitars made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder, typically have a longer sustain.
- Resonance: The type of wood used for the body of an electric guitar can also affect the resonance of the guitar. Less expensive guitars made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood, typically have less resonance. More expensive guitars made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder, typically have more resonance.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, it is important to consider the type of wood used for the body. The type of wood used can affect the sound, sustain, and resonance of the guitar. By choosing the right type of wood, you can find an electric guitar under $200 that sounds great and plays well.
2. Neck
The neck of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors that affects the feel and playability of the guitar. The type of wood used for the neck can affect the feel, weight, and balance of the guitar. It can also affect the sound of the guitar, as the neck can resonate with the strings and body of the guitar.
Less expensive electric guitars typically have necks made of maple or rosewood. These woods are relatively inexpensive and easy to work with, and they produce a bright, clear sound. However, maple and rosewood necks can be more susceptible to warping and bending than necks made of more expensive woods.
More expensive electric guitars typically have necks made of higher-quality woods, such as ebony or rosewood. These woods are more expensive and difficult to work with, but they produce a warmer, richer sound. Ebony and rosewood necks are also more resistant to warping and bending than necks made of maple or rosewood.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, it is important to consider the type of wood used for the neck. The type of wood used can affect the feel, playability, and sound of the guitar. By choosing the right type of wood, you can find an electric guitar under $200 that feels great to play and sounds great.
| Wood | Feel | Playability | Sound | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maple | Bright, clear | Good | Inexpensive | |
| Rosewood | Warm, rich | Good | Inexpensive | |
| Ebony | Warm, rich | Excellent | Expensive | |
| Rosewood | Warm, rich | Excellent | Expensive |
3. Pickups
Pickups are one of the most important components of an electric guitar. They are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal, which is then amplified and sent to the speaker. The type of pickups used in a guitar can have a significant impact on the sound of the guitar.
Less expensive electric guitars typically have single-coil pickups. Single-coil pickups are relatively inexpensive to produce, and they produce a bright, clear sound. However, single-coil pickups are also susceptible to electromagnetic interference, which can cause a buzzing or humming sound. In addition, single-coil pickups have a lower output than humbucking pickups, which can make them less suitable for playing high-gain styles of music.
More expensive electric guitars typically have humbucking pickups. Humbucking pickups are more expensive to produce than single-coil pickups, but they offer several advantages. First, humbucking pickups are not susceptible to electromagnetic interference, so they produce a cleaner sound. Second, humbucking pickups have a higher output than single-coil pickups, which makes them more suitable for playing high-gain styles of music.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, it is important to consider the type of pickups that the guitar has. If you are looking for a guitar that produces a bright, clear sound, then a guitar with single-coil pickups may be a good choice. However, if you are looking for a guitar that produces a cleaner, hi
gher-output sound, then a guitar with humbucking pickups may be a better choice.
Here is a table that summarizes the key differences between single-coil pickups and humbucking pickups:
| Characteristic | Single-Coil Pickups | Humbucking Pickups |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Sound | Bright, clear | Clean, higher-output |
| Susceptibility to electromagnetic interference | Yes | No |
4. Hardware
The hardware on an electric guitar plays a vital role in the guitar’s overall sound, playability, and durability. Less expensive guitars typically have cheaper hardware, which can affect the guitar’s tuning stability, intonation, and overall feel. More expensive guitars typically have higher-quality hardware, which can provide better tuning stability, intonation, and feel.
- Tuners: Tuners are used to tune the guitar’s strings. Less expensive guitars typically have cheaper tuners, which may not be as accurate or durable as tuners on more expensive guitars. This can make it more difficult to keep the guitar in tune, especially when playing live or in a recording session.
- Bridge: The bridge is used to hold the strings in place and transfer their vibrations to the guitar’s body. Less expensive guitars typically have cheaper bridges, which may not be as well-made or as adjustable as bridges on more expensive guitars. This can affect the guitar’s intonation, which is the accuracy of the notes played at different frets.
- Other components: Other hardware components on an electric guitar include the nut, string trees, and strap buttons. These components may seem small, but they can all affect the guitar’s playability and durability. Less expensive guitars typically have cheaper hardware components, which may not be as well-made or as durable as components on more expensive guitars.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, it is important to consider the quality of the hardware. Cheaper hardware can affect the guitar’s tuning stability, intonation, and overall feel. By choosing a guitar with higher-quality hardware, you can ensure that your guitar will stay in tune, play well, and last for many years to come.
5. Sound
The sound of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a guitar. The sound of a guitar is affected by a variety of factors, including the body, neck, pickups, and hardware. Less expensive guitars typically have a thinner, brighter sound, while more expensive guitars typically have a warmer, richer sound.
The body of the guitar is one of the most important factors that affects the sound of the guitar. The body of the guitar is typically made of wood, and the type of wood used can affect the tone, sustain, and resonance of the guitar. Less expensive guitars are typically made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood, which can produce a thinner, brighter sound. More expensive guitars are typically made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder, which can produce a warmer, richer sound.
The neck of the guitar is also an important factor that affects the sound of the guitar. The neck of the guitar is typically made of wood, and the type of wood used can affect the feel and playability of the guitar. It can also affect the sound of the guitar, as the neck can resonate with the strings and body of the guitar. Less expensive guitars typically have necks made of maple or rosewood, which can produce a brighter, clearer sound. More expensive guitars typically have necks made of higher-quality woods, such as ebony or rosewood, which can produce a warmer, richer sound.
The pickups on a guitar are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal. The type of pickups used can affect the sound of the guitar. Less expensive guitars typically have single-coil pickups, which can produce a brighter, clearer sound. More expensive guitars typically have humbucking pickups, which can produce a warmer, richer sound.
The hardware on a guitar includes the tuners, bridge, and other components. The hardware can affect the sound of the guitar, as it can affect the tuning stability, intonation, and overall feel of the guitar. Less expensive guitars typically have cheaper hardware, which can affect the tuning stability, intonation, and overall feel of the guitar. More expensive guitars typically have higher-quality hardware, which can provide better tuning stability, intonation, and feel.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, it is important to consider the sound of the guitar. The sound of the guitar is affected by a variety of factors, including the body, neck, pickups, and hardware. By considering these factors, you can choose a guitar that has the sound you are looking for.
| Factor | Less Expensive Guitars | More Expensive Guitars |
|---|---|---|
| Body | Typically made of cheaper woods, such as plywood or basswood | Typically made of higher-quality woods, such as mahogany or alder |
| Neck | Typically made of maple or rosewood | Typically made of higher-quality woods, such as ebony or rosewood |
| Pickups | Typically have single-coil pickups | Typically have humbucking pickups |
| Hardware | Typically have cheaper hardware | Typically have higher-quality hardware |
| Sound | Typically have a thinner, brighter sound | Typically have a warmer, richer sound |
6. Playability
Playability is an important factor to consider when choosing an electric guitar under $200. Less expensive guitars may be more difficult to play than more expensive guitars, but this is not always the case. Some less expensive guitars have excellent playability, while some more expensive guitars may be more difficult to play. It is important to try out a guitar before you buy it to make sure that it is comfortable to play.
- Neck shape: The neck shape of an electric guitar can affect its playability. Some people prefer a thinner neck, while others prefer a thicker neck. It is important to find a neck shape that is comfortable for you to play.
- Fret size: The fret size of an electric guitar can also affect its playability. Smaller frets are generally easier to play than larger frets. If you have small hands, you may prefer a guitar with smaller frets.
- Action: The action of an electric guitar is the distance between the strings and the fretboard. A lower action makes the guitar easier to play, while a higher action makes the guitar more difficult to play. It is important to find an action that is comfortable for you to play.
By considering the factors that affect playability, you can choose an electric guitar under $200 that is comfortable and easy to play.
Here is a table that summarizes the key factors th
at affect the playability of an electric guitar:
| Factor | Effect on playability |
|---|---|
| Neck shape | A thinner neck is generally easier to play than a thicker neck. |
| Fret size | Smaller frets are generally easier to play than larger frets. |
| Action | A lower action makes the guitar easier to play, while a higher action makes the guitar more difficult to play. |
7. Features
Electric guitars under $200 typically have fewer features than more expensive guitars. However, there are still a number of features that can be found on less expensive guitars, such as tremolo bridges, coil tapping, and kill switches.
- Tremolo bridges: Tremolo bridges allow the player to change the pitch of the strings by moving the bridge back and forth. This can be used to create a variety of effects, such as vibrato and dive bombs.
- Coil tapping: Coil tapping is a wiring technique that allows the player to switch between different pickup configurations. This can be used to create a variety of sounds, from single-coil sounds to humbucking sounds.
- Kill switches: Kill switches are momentary switches that cut off the output of the guitar. This can be used to create a variety of effects, such as staccato and stutter effects.
These are just a few of the features that can be found on electric guitars under $200. By considering the features that are important to you, you can choose a guitar that meets your needs and budget.
8. Brand
When it comes to electric guitars under $200, the brand of the guitar can be an important factor to consider. Less expensive guitars are typically made by lesser-known brands, while more expensive guitars are typically made by well-known brands. This can have a number of implications for the price, quality, and resale value of the guitar.
- Price: The brand of an electric guitar can have a significant impact on the price. Less expensive guitars are typically made by lesser-known brands, which means that they can be sold for a lower price. More expensive guitars are typically made by well-known brands, which means that they can be sold for a higher price.
- Quality: The brand of an electric guitar can also affect the quality of the guitar. Less expensive guitars are typically made with cheaper materials and components, which can result in a lower quality guitar. More expensive guitars are typically made with higher quality materials and components, which can result in a higher quality guitar.
- Resale value: The brand of an electric guitar can also affect the resale value of the guitar. Less expensive guitars typically have a lower resale value, while more expensive guitars typically have a higher resale value. This is because well-known brands are more likely to retain their value over time.
Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy a less expensive guitar from a lesser-known brand or a more expensive guitar from a well-known brand is a personal one. There are pros and cons to both options, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
9. Reviews
When shopping for an electric guitar under $200, it is important to read reviews from other musicians. This can help you to get a better understanding of the quality of the guitar and whether or not it is a good fit for your needs.
- Reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of the guitar.
- Reviews can help you to identify potential problems with the guitar.
- Reviews can help you to compare different guitars and make an informed decision.
- Reviews can help you to find the best electric guitar for your needs and budget.
There are a few things to keep in mind when reading reviews of electric guitars.
- Read reviews from a variety of sources.
- Be critical of the reviews you read.
- Consider the reviewer’s experience level.
- Take the reviews with a grain of salt.
Reading reviews of electric guitars can be a helpful way to make an informed decision about which guitar to buy. By following these tips, you can get the most out of the reviews you read and find the best guitar for your needs.
10. Price
The price of an electric guitar is one of the most important factors to consider when purchasing one. Electric guitars under $200 are a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. While they may not have all the features or the same level of quality as more expensive guitars, they can still be a great way to learn to play the guitar without breaking the bank.
There are a number of factors that can affect the price of an electric guitar, including the brand, the materials used, the construction, and the features. Brand name guitars typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. Guitars made with higher quality materials, such as mahogany or alder, also tend to cost more than guitars made with cheaper materials, such as plywood or basswood. The construction of the guitar can also affect the price, with guitars that are hand-crafted typically costing more than guitars that are mass-produced.
The features of a guitar can also affect the price. Guitars with more features, such as tremolo bridges, coil tapping, and kill switches, typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. Ultimately, the price of an electric guitar is determined by a number of factors. By understanding the factors that affect the price, you can make an informed decision about which guitar is right for you.
| Factor | Effect on price |
|---|---|
| Brand | Brand name guitars typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. |
| Materials | Guitars made with higher quality materials, such as mahogany or alder, also tend to cost more than guitars made with cheaper materials, such as plywood or basswood. |
| Construction | Guitars that are hand-crafted typically costing more than guitars that are mass-produced. |
| Features | Guitars with more features, such as tremolo bridges, coil tapping, and kill switches, typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. |
11. Value
When it comes to electric guitars under $200, the concept of value is particularly important. While these guitars may not have the same level of quality or features as more expensive guitars,
they can still be a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. Here are a few key factors that contribute to the value of an electric guitar under $200:
- Quality: The quality of an electric guitar is determined by a number of factors, including the materials used, the construction, and the workmanship. Less expensive guitars may not be made with the same high-quality materials or construction as more expensive guitars, but they can still be well-made and durable.
- Brand: The brand of an electric guitar can also affect its value. Guitars from well-known brands typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. However, there are a number of lesser-known brands that make great guitars at affordable prices.
- Features: The features of an electric guitar can also affect its value. Guitars with more features, such as tremolo bridges, coil tapping, and kill switches, typically cost more than guitars with fewer features. However, it is important to remember that not all features are essential, and some features may not be worth the extra cost.
Ultimately, the value of an electric guitar is determined by the individual buyer. Some buyers may be willing to pay more for a guitar with a well-known brand name or a particular set of features. Others may be more concerned with getting a good quality guitar at an affordable price. Regardless of your budget or needs, there are a number of great electric guitars under $200 that offer excellent value for the money.
12. Investment
Many people see learning to play an instrument as a great investment. With a little effort and dedication, you can have a new skill that not only brings joy and fulfillment but can actually help you earn money. However, getting started with a new instrument requires an up-front investment.
- Cost: One of the most important things to consider when purchasing an electric guitar is the cost. Less expensive guitars may not be as good of an investment as more expensive guitars, but they can still be a good way to get started. If you are serious about learning to play guitar, it is important to invest in a good quality guitar that will last for many years.
- Features: Electric guitars come with a variety of features, such as different types of pickups, bridges, and necks. It is important to consider the features that are important to you when choosing a guitar. If you are not sure what features you need, it is a good idea to talk to a guitar teacher or experienced guitarist.
- Brand: The brand of an electric guitar can also affect its value. Guitars from well-known brands typically cost more than guitars from lesser-known brands. However, there are a number of lesser-known brands that make great guitars at affordable prices.
- Resale value: If you are planning on selling your electric guitar in the future, it is important to consider the resale value. Guitars from well-known brands typically have a higher resale value than guitars from lesser-known brands.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy an electric guitar is a personal one. However, if you are serious about learning to play guitar, it is important to invest in a good quality guitar that will last for many years. By considering the factors discussed above, you can make an informed decision about which electric guitar is right for you.
FAQs about Electric Guitars Under $200
Electric guitars under $200 are a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. They offer a great way to learn the basics of playing electric guitar without breaking the bank. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for an electric guitar under $200.
Question 1: What are the key factors to consider when choosing an electric guitar under $200?
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, there are several key factors to consider, including the body, neck, pickups, hardware, sound, playability, features, brand, reviews, price, value, and investment potential. It is important to weigh each of these factors carefully to find the best guitar for your needs.
Question 2: Are electric guitars under $200 good for beginners?
Electric guitars under $200 can be a great option for beginners. They are typically more affordable than more expensive guitars, and they offer a great way to learn the basics of playing electric guitar. However, it is important to keep in mind that less expensive guitars may not have the same level of quality or features as more expensive guitars.
Question 3: What are some of the best electric guitars under $200?
There are a number of great electric guitars under $200 available on the market. Some of the most popular options include the Squier Affinity Stratocaster, the Epiphone SG Special, and the Yamaha Pacifica 012. These guitars offer a good balance of quality, features, and affordability.
Question 4: How can I get the most out of my electric guitar under $200?
There are a few things you can do to get the most out of your electric guitar under $200. First, it is important to find a guitar that is comfortable to play and that you enjoy playing. You should also take the time to learn how to play the guitar properly. This will help you to improve your skills and get the most out of your instrument.
Question 5: What are some tips for buying an electric guitar under $200?
When buying an electric guitar under $200, there are a few tips you should keep in mind. First, it is important to set a budget and stick to it. You should also do your research and compare different guitars before making a decision. It is also a good idea to read reviews from other musicians to get their insights on different guitars.
Question 6: What are some of the common mistakes to avoid when buying an electric guitar under $200?
There are a few common mistakes to avoid when buying an electric guitar under $200. First, it is important to avoid buying a guitar that is too cheap. You should also avoid buying a guitar that is not comfortable to play. Finally, it is important to avoid buying a guitar that does not have the features you need.
By following these tips, you can find a great electric guitar under $200 that will meet your needs and help you to learn to play the guitar.
Summary: Electric guitars under $200 can be a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. By considering the factors discussed above, you can choose an electric guitar that is right for you and get the most out of your investment.
Transition to the next article section: Now that you know what to look for when buying an electric guitar under $200, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. With a little research, you can find a great guitar that will help you to learn to play and enjoy music for years to come.
Tips for Buying an Electric Guitar Under $200
Buying an electric guitar under $200 can be a great way to get started playing guitar without breaking the bank. However, there are a few things you should keep in mind when shopping for a guitar in this price range.
Tip 1: Set a budget and stick to it.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of buying a new guitar, but it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. This will help you avoid overspending and ensure that you can afford the guitar you choose.
Tip 2: Do y
our research.
Before you start shopping for a guitar, take some time to do your research and learn about the different types of guitars available. This will help you narrow down your choices and find a guitar that’s right for your needs.
Tip 3: Read reviews from other musicians.
One of the best ways to learn about a particular guitar is to read reviews from other musicians. This can give you valuable insights into the guitar’s sound, playability, and overall quality.
Tip 4: Consider your playing style.
When choosing a guitar, it’s important to consider your playing style. If you’re a beginner, you may want to choose a guitar with a thinner neck and a lighter body. If you’re a more experienced player, you may prefer a guitar with a thicker neck and a heavier body.
Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
If you’re not sure which guitar to choose, don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend, family member, or guitar teacher. They can give you their recommendations and help you find the perfect guitar for your needs.
Summary: By following these tips, you can find a great electric guitar under $200 that will meet your needs and help you learn to play the guitar.
Transition to the article’s conclusion: Now that you know what to look for when buying an electric guitar under $200, you can start shopping for the perfect guitar for you. With a little research, you can find a great guitar that will help you to learn to play and enjoy music for years to come.
Conclusion
Electric guitars under $200 are a great option for beginners and budget-minded musicians. They offer a great way to learn the basics of playing electric guitar without breaking the bank. However, it is important to keep in mind that less expensive guitars may not have the same level of quality or features as more expensive guitars.
When choosing an electric guitar under $200, there are a number of factors to consider, including the body, neck, pickups, hardware, sound, playability, features, brand, reviews, price, value, and investment potential. By considering these factors carefully, you can choose an electric guitar that is right for your needs and get the most out of your investment.
If you are serious about learning to play guitar, it is important to invest in a good quality guitar that will last for many years. However, if you are just starting out, an electric guitar under $200 can be a great way to get started.
