Best Cheap Electric Guitar 2024 - Guitarsite Top Picks
- Raphael
- 3 Comments
The idea of the best cheap electric guitar has changed the past decades. The demand for quality sound has increased significantly in today’s music industry. Still, it doesn’t necessarily mean one must spend a fortune to achieve that. The good news is that there’s a surge of budget-friendly electric guitars flooding the market.
Kramer Baretta Special
The legendary Kramer Baretta Special is an iconic '80s rock guitar still going strong.
Yamaha Pacifica PAC012DLX
The Yamaha PAC012DLX is a versatile, reliable, and affordable electric guitar, ideal for students.
Ibanez Gio GRG121DX
Gives you the fast playability and aggressive tone of a super strat guitar, at a bargain price.
Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe
A budget friendly modern Telecaster with humbuckers and dedicated pickup ontrols
Gretsch G2210 Streamliner Junior
Get the distinct Gretsch sound, build quality, and aesthetics without breaking the bank.
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These cheap electric guitars are music to the ears of both novices and seasoned strummers alike, as they offer a harmonious balance of quality and affordability, making the joy of playing electric guitar accessible to all.
Whether you’re just starting your musical journey with a beginner guitar or looking to add another electric guitar to your collection without breaking the bank, the array of affordable electric guitars and options available strikes the perfect chord. From well-known brands to lesser-known ones, the market offers a variety of cheap electric guitars to choose from.
With features like solid build quality, versatile sound options, and playability, these budget electric guitars are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to enjoy playing music without worrying about their budget.
Best Cheap Electric Guitars - Your Options
Kramer Baretta Special
Best Budget ’80s Rock Guitar
Kramer Baretta Special Electric Guitar
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
The Kramer Baretta Special is an excellent budget electric guitar with a speedy neck, fiery humbuckers, and an understated style that will turn heads. Its raw sound output, thanks to the Alnico V zebra-coil humbucker, is truly impressive.
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Let’s start by talking about its distinctive features. One of the things that sets it apart is its speedy neck, perfect for players who want to shred like a pro. The fiery Alnico Vhumbucker is another standout feature, delivering a sound that’s a cut above cheap ceramic pickups. And don’t forget the seamless pairing of the Strat style body design with an understated style that will turn heads. The single bridge humbucker setup, mahogany body, and maple neck make for a winning combination that’s hard to beat.
Of course, there’s always room for improvement. With such an affordable instrument, it’s very conducive to modding, just like Eddie Van Halen did with his Kramer.
Now, let’s talk about this guitar’s electrifying sound. The Alnico V zebra-coil humbucker packs a knockout punch, delivering in-your-face tones that are perfect for heavy metal and hard rock. But it’s not all about the heavy stuff—you can still achieve clean tones with warmth and resonance from the mahogany.
Who knew a single pickup guitar could rock the guitar world this hard?
On the flip side, the single-pickup setup may limit your tonal options, and the absence of a tone control knob on this model may be a dealbreaker for some. But its simplicity and plug-and-play readiness is sure to make it a favorite guitar in your collection.
In summary, the Kramer Baretta Special is a great guitar worth considering. Its raw sound output, thanks to the Alnico V zebra-coil humbucker, is truly impressive, especially considering its budget-friendly price. And the combination of materials ensures a lightweight and solid playing experience that’s hard to beat.
Pros:
- Raw Sound Output is ideal for rock and metal.
- Lots of fun even for advanced guitar players
- Lightweight body
Cons:
- Limited Tonal Variations due to the single-pickup setup
- No Tone Control Knob
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Mahogany | Neck: Maple |
Neck Profile: Slim | Radius: 12″ |
Fingeraboard: Maple | Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo |
Scale Length: 25.5″ | Nut Width: 1.679″ |
Pickup: Alnico V Zebra Coil Humbucker | Bridge: Kramer Traditional Tremolo |
Controls: 1 x master volume | |
Yamaha Pacifica PAC012DLX
Best Electric Guitar for Beginners
Yamaha Pacifica PAC012DLX Electric Guitar HSS
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
The Yamaha PAC012DLX’s HSS pickup configuration, solid Agathis body, and slim neck profile make it an excellent investment for guitarists of all skill levels.
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While Yamaha offers high end guitars reaching the thousands, they are also one of the best electric guitar brands for budget electric guitars.
Let’s start with its design and build quality if you’re wondering what sets this good cheap electric guitar apart. The Yamaha PAC012DLX boasts a sleek double-cutaway design and is solid-bodied, made from lightweight Agathis tonewood. It comes in various finishes like Black, Metallic Blue, and Metallic Red.
The neck is made of Maple with a satin finish, making it easy to glide smoothly up and down the fretboard. The rosewood fingerboard has 22 medium-jumbo frets and dot inlays, perfect for comfortable playing. The hardware is reliable, with a vintage-style tremolo bridge, die-cast tuning machines, and synthetic bone nut.
Regarding electronics and pickups, the Yamaha PAC012DLX has a humbucker-single-single (HSS) setup, with two single-coil pickups in the neck and middle positions and a humbucker pickup in the bridge position. The five-way pickup selector switch allows maximum tonal options with master volume and tone controls. This guitar produces bright, clear tones from its single-coil pickups and a thick and powerful sound from its bridge humbucker.
Playability is where the Yamaha Pacifica series shines, and the PAC012DLX model is no exception. Its slim neck profile and comfortable body shape make it easy to hold and play for extended periods. Whether a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar is comfortable and easy to play.
So, what are the pros and cons of the Yamaha PAC012DLX model? On the plus side, it’s incredibly comfortable to play, with a flat neck profile and ergonomic body shape. It’s also budget-friendly, offering impressive quality at an affordable price point. On the downside, the guitar features an Agathis body, which is lightweight but not top-tier in tonewood quality. Some users have reported that the tuners could be improved.
All in all, the Yamaha PAC012DLX is an excellent choice for guitarists of all skill levels. It’s versatile, reliable, and affordable, making it a fantastic investment for anyone looking for a quality guitar. Especially coming from a brand known for producing quality instruments.
Pros:
- Very comfortable for beginners and experienced players alike.
- Easy to Play
Cons:
- Not the highest quality tonewood
- Not the best tuners
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Mahogany | Neck: Maple |
Neck Profile: C Shape | Radius: 13.75″ |
Fingeraboard: Rosewood | Frets: 22, Medium |
Scale Length: 25.5″ | Nut Width: 1.614″ |
Pickups: Yamaha Ceramic Single-coils (Neck, Mid) | Pickup: Yamaha Ceramic Humbucker (Bridge) |
Bridge: Vintage Tremolo
| Controls: Volume, Tone, 5-Way Pickup Selector |
Ibanez Gio GRG121DX
Best Budget Super Strat
Ibanez Gio GRG121DX Electric Guitar HH
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
Looking for an affordable and practical electric guitar? The Ibanez GRG121DX from the GIO Series offers solid construction, comfortable playability, versatile sound, and a pocket-friendly price.
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Let’s dive into the details. The body is crafted from mahogany, a durable and solid wood with a flat walnut finish. Its double-cutaway design allows for easy access to higher frets. In contrast, the slim, comfortable bolt-on maple neck, rosewood fingerboard, 24 jumbo frets, and shark tooth inlays add to the guitar’s killer look. With a 25.5-inch scale length, this cheap electric guitar offers better handling for players during practice, jamming, or concerts.
In terms of hardware, the GRG121DX doesn’t have a tremolo bar, which means the strings are attached directly in a fixed hardtail style. This provides stability and minimizes string buzz. The graphite nut keeps the strings in place, while the tuners do a decent job keeping the guitar in tune.
This guitar produces an aggressive sound at both the neck and bridge positions, thanks to the IBZ-6 humbuckers. The humbuckers make it easy to play, especially for beginners and help mitigate string buzzes, even with the fixed hardtail bridge. You can control the humbuckers using the master volume knob, master tone knob, and a three-way pickup selector switch.
The mahogany body emphasizes the lower tone range and provides access to warmer mid-tones. Expect more bass tones while playing with this guitar. The versatile sound allows for various tonal qualities via the 3-way toggle switch.
While the GRG121DX is budget-friendly, it doesn’t sacrifice quality and durability. The guitar feels robust and can withstand regular use. The slim neck profile and jumbo frets make it comfortable to play, especially for those transitioning from cheap acoustic guitars to electric guitars.
However, it’s worth noting that the GRG121DX leans toward the heavier side due to the solid wood construction. Some players may find it less comfortable during long sessions. Additionally, while functional, the tuners and hardware are more basic. Upgrading these components could enhance overall performance. Finally, the mahogany body provides warmth but lacks tonal variety compared to guitars with different wood combinations. If you enjoy dive bombs or tremolo effects, the absence of a tremolo bar might disappoint you.
Overall, the Ibanez GRG121DX makes an excellent choice for beginners and budget-conscious musicians who want a great guitar without breaking the bank. So, what are you waiting for? Get your hands on this guitar and start playing!
Pros:
- Great Playability
- Versatile Sound
- Stable Tuning
Cons:
- Basic Hardware
- No Tremolo System
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Okoume | Neck: Maple |
Neck Profile: GRG | Radius: 15.75″ |
Fingeraboard: Purpleheart | Frets: 24, Jumbo |
Scale Length: 25.5″ | Nut Width: 1.692″ |
Neck Pickup: IBZ-6 Humbucker | Bridge Pickup: IBZ-6 Humbucker |
Bridge: Ibanez F106 Fixed Bridge
| Controls: Volume, Tone, 3-Way Pickup Switch |
Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe
Best Budget Telecaster
Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe Electric Guitar
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
The Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe is a budget-friendly guitar that delivers satisfactory tones and feels great to play. With the potential for modifications, it could become a true player’s guitar.
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First, let’s discuss the features. The Telecaster Deluxe has a Poplar body with a glossy poly finish and is available in three gorgeous colors: Burgundy Mist, Black, and Charcoal Frost Metallic. The neck is a classic C-shape Maple with either an Indian Laurel or Maple fretboard, and it has 21 frets with a Medium Jumbo design and dot inlays. The electronics include dual Ceramic Squier humbuckers, separate volume and tone controls, and a 3-way selector switch.
Now, let’s talk about the sound. While not mind-blowing, the Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe delivers a decent sonic punch. Clean tones are pleasant, and the neck pickup can produce smooth, buttery lead tones. Fingerpicked playing benefits from the darker pickups, creating a rich tone. Overdrive and distortion bring these Squier humbuckers to life, making them suitable for rock, blues, and related genres.
Next up is the action, fit, and finish. The feel of the Affinity Telecaster Deluxe is improved compared to previous Squier models. The neck is round, smooth, and familiar to any Fender player. The fretwork is nice, with minimal fret buzz. Overall, it’s an above-average-feeling instrument that could become a workhorse with a few DIY mods.
When it comes to reliability and durability, Squier has built this guitar to be rock solid. The thick poly finish ensures durability, even if it won’t relic gracefully. Strap buttons, tuners, and bridge are reliable and functional.
Now, let’s talk about the pros and cons. On the positive side, the Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe is budget-friendly, making it an excellent choice for beginners or those on a tight budget. It retains the iconic Telecaster shape, which appeals to fans of vintage aesthetics.
While not mind-blowing, the dual Ceramic Squier humbuckers deliver satisfactory tones. This is typical for cheap guitars. The neck shape is comfortable and familiar, especially for players accustomed to Fender-style guitars. Compared to previous Squier models, the Affinity Telecaster Deluxe feels better in terms of fit and finish.
Conversely, the dual humbuckers limit tonal options compared to traditional Telecasters with single-coil pickups. The stock guitar pickups can sound muddy when overdriven. While functional, the stock tuners and bridge could benefit from upgrades.
The Squier Affinity Telecaster Deluxe is a fun, affordable, and potentially mod-friendly guitar that plays like a true player’s guitar. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, this guitar is worth considering. Remember that with a few modifications, this guitar can truly shine!
If you can extend your budget, you can go for the Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster model, which is a step up in overall quality and tone.
Pros:
- Classic Telecaster design
- Neck shape is comfortable and familiar
- Above-average build quality
Cons:
- Stock tuners and bridge could benefit from upgrades.
- Muddy pickups
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Poplar | Neck: Maple |
Neck Profile: C Shape | Radius: 9.5″ |
Fingeraboard: Laurel | Frets: 21 |
Scale Length: 25.5″ | Nut Width: 1.65″ |
Neck Pickup: Fender Ceramic Humbucker | Bridge Pickup: Fender Ceramic Humbucker |
Bridge: 6-Saddle String-thru Body
| Controls: 2 x Volume, 2 x Tone, 3-Way Pickup Selector |
Gretsch G2210 Streamliner Junior Jet Club
Best Budget Guitar for Mods
Gretsch G2210 Streamliner Junior Jet Club Electric Guitar HH
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
The Gretsch G2210 Streamliner Junior Jet Club guitar has a unique appearance and minimalist controls. Its Broad’Tron humbuckers offer a bright, punchy tone perfect for genres like punk and power-pop.
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The G2210 takes a minimalist approach, thanks to its flat-fronted body and wraparound ‘lightning’ tailpiece. But that’s not all – its minimalist controls also make it stand out. With just a master volume, master tone, and a three-way toggle pickup selector, you’ll get a wide range of sounds from this guitar.
One of the best things about this guitar is its Broad’Tron humbuckers. They offer a bright, punchy tone perfect for genres like punk and strumming chords for power-pop. And let’s talk about the build quality – it’s fantastic! The Vintage White gloss finish, superb fret dressing, and overall craftsmanship are top-notch.
When it comes to sound and playability, you won’t be disappointed. The G2210 offers a unique character brighter than a set-neck Les Paul Special. It won’t sustain like a Les Paul, but the extra jangle and twang make it stand out.
Of course, like any other guitar, the G2210 has pros and cons. On the one hand, it has a distinctive design, impressive build quality, and upgrade potential. On the other hand, it’s not a vintage reproduction and faces tough competition from different brands in the same price range.
Overall, the G2210 Streamliner Junior Jet Club is a comfortable, lightweight guitar with a unique character. If you’re looking for a guitar with a distinctive look and bright tone, this might be the one for you! It’s one of the best budget electric guitars for classic tones.
Pros:
- Distinctive Design
- Quality Build
- Bright Tone
- Upgrade Potential
Cons:
- Not a vintage reproduction
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Nato | Neck: Nato |
Neck Profile: Thin U | Radius: 12″ |
Fingeraboard: Laurel | Frets: 22, Medium Jumbo Nickel |
Scale Length: 24.75″ | Nut Width: 1.685″ |
Neck Pickup: Broad’Tron Humbucker | Bridge Pickup: Broad’Tron Humbucker |
Bridge: Compensated Wrap-Around Bridge
| Controls: Volume, Tone, 3-Way Pickup Selector |
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster FMT HSS
Budget Stratocaster HSS Configuration
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster FMT HSS Electric Guitar
Guitarsite Expert Opinion
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster FMT HSS is an attractive and versatile guitar at a great price. It’s a solid choice for anyone looking for a quality electric guitar without breaking the bank.
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Let’s start with the looks and finish because this does not look like a cheap guitar. The Sienna Sunburst finish is simply stunning, and the flame maple top adds a touch of class and sophistication that sets it apart from other guitars in its price range. It’s definitely one of the best-looking options in the Affinity series, and it’s sure to turn heads whenever you take it out for a jam.
But it’s not just about looks—this guitar also delivers when it comes to tonal versatility. Instead of three single coil pickups, the HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) pickup configuration provides a wide range of tones, making it suitable for playing everything from blues to rock to metal. The humbucker gives you that thick, robust sound perfect for heavy riffs. At the same time, the ceramic single coil pickups retain that classic Strat sparkle that’s ideal for more melodic playing.
And let’s not forget about playability. The neck is incredibly smooth and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for beginners and intermediate players alike. If you’re just starting out, this guitar will help you transition smoothly from a beginner level to a more advanced one.
Of course, we can’t forget about value for money. Squier offers excellent value with this model, making it affordable for anyone who wants a quality guitar without breaking the bank. However, there are a couple of minor drawbacks to keep in mind – some users report that the tremolo arm isn’t well-seated, and the flame pattern on some models is subtle.
All in all, though, the Squier Affinity Stratocaster FMT HSS is a solid choice for anyone who wants a great budget electric guitar. With its versatile pickup configuration, fast playing neck, and budget-friendly price tag, it’s worth considering if you’re in the market for a budget instrument that looks on par with expensive guitars.
Pros:
- Classic Strat aesthetic
- Versatile tones
- Smooth neck feel
Cons:
- Tremolo arm may get loose
Specifications: | |
|---|---|
Body: Poplar | Neck: Maple |
Neck Profile: C Shape | Radius: 9.5″ |
Fingeraboard: Laurel | Frets: 21, Medium Jumbo |
Scale Length: 25.5″ | Nut Width: 1.65″ |
Neck/Mid Pickup: Fender Ceramic Single-Coil | Bridge Pickup: Fender Ceramic Humbucker |
Bridge: 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo with Block Saddles
| Controls: 1 x Volume, 2 x Tone, 5-way blade pickup switch |
Things to Consider in Choosing the Best Multi-Effects Pedal
Several essential factors must be remembered when shopping for a budget-friendly electric guitar under $300. Let’s explore these considerations to help you make an informed choice:
Build Quality and Materials:
When searching for a cheap electric guitar within a reasonable price range, it’s important to prioritize a solid build. Fortunately, even at this price point, it’s possible to find cheap guitars made from decent materials. When selecting the right guitar, it’s essential to consider the type of body wood used. Mahogany, basswood, and poplar are common choices for budget guitars.
Each type of wood has unique tonal properties, so it’s worth researching which type would best suit the sound you’re after.
In addition to the body wood, paying attention to the neck construction is crucial. Bolt-on necks are a common choice and offer the benefit of easier maintenance and adjustments compared to other neck designs.
By considering both the body wood and neck construction, you can find a guitar that fits your budget and meets your playing needs.
Playability and Neck Profile:
The neck shape of a guitar is a crucial factor that affects the instrument’s playability and overall feel. Several common profiles are available in the market, and each has specific characteristics that cater to different playing styles and genres.
One of the most popular neck shapes is the C-shaped profile, known for its exceptional comfort and versatility. This profile suits most playing styles and is often preferred for guitarists who play different genres.
Another common profile is the Thin D-shaped profile, ideal for rock and metal genres. The D-shape offers a flatter, thinner feel, allowing guitarists to easily play fast and intricate solos.
The U-shaped profile is another popular choice. It is chunkier and great for blues and rhythm playing. This profile offers a more substantial grip, making playing intricate chord progressions and fingerstyle techniques easier.
Testing how the neck feels in your hand is essential to ensure it suits your playing style. Each profile has its unique feel, and choosing the one that feels comfortable to you is essential. The neck shape can significantly impact your playing experience, so selecting the right one that suits your playing style and preferences is crucial.
Pickups and Electronics
When it comes to budget guitars, it’s important to remember that they typically come with cheap pickups. While these pickups may not be extraordinary, they can still produce decent sound quality.
However, if you’re looking for a specific tone, it’s important to pay attention to the type of pickups the guitar has. If you’re after a thicker, warmer tone, you should look for guitars that come with humbucker pickups.
Conversely, if you prefer a brighter sound, a guitar with single-coil pickups would be a better choice.
Additionally, it’s worth checking whether the guitar has a coil-splitting feature, as this can provide added versatility by allowing you to switch between single-coil and humbucker sounds. Most versatile guitars have an HSS (humbucker-single-single) pickup configuration.
Hardware and Tuning Stability
When inspecting a new guitar, paying attention to the quality of the tuners, bridge, and nut is important. This is because good hardware can significantly improve the instrument’s tuning stability.
Tuners that are well-made and function properly will allow the guitar to stay in tune for longer periods.
The bridge and nut are also important as they play a vital role in the guitar’s intonation. A high-quality bridge and nut will ensure the guitar’s intonation is accurate and critical for producing clear and in-tune notes.
It’s also worth noting that choosing between a fixed bridge and a tremolo system is a personal preference. However, a fixed bridge such as a hardtail or wraparound is generally considered easier to maintain and more stable than a tremolo system.
This is because a fixed bridge is simpler in design and does not require the same level of maintenance as a tremolo system. A tremolo system can be more complex to set up and maintain. Still, it does offer additional features such as vibrato and dive bombs.
Aesthetics and Finish
While the aesthetics of the instrument don’t necessarily affect its playability, the best electric guitars are pleasing to look at.
Every individual has a unique style and taste, so it’s essential to choose a guitar that resonates with your personal preferences.
You may want to consider various factors, such as the instrument’s color, shape, and overall look, before purchasing. Extending your budget a bit more will open up your options to more shapes, including offset guitars, semi-hollow guitars, full hollow body guitars, and others.
The color of the guitar can significantly impact your mood and personality, while the shape and overall look of the instrument can reflect your artistic sense.
So, it’s always a good idea to take your time and choose a guitar that not only sounds good but also looks good and feels right in your hands.
Conclusion
The instruments that made it to this best cheap electric guitar selection for 2024 are made with quality materials using modern precision production. This results in good playability, tone, and reliability – all while keeping the cost minimum.
These exceptional guitars are a testament to the fact that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get quality. It doesn’t matter if you’re starting out or if you’re an experienced musician; there are a plethora of options available that won’t put a strain on your wallet.
Raphael Pulgar
Lead Author
Alexander Briones
Contributor: Editor and Supplemental Writing
3 thoughts on “Best Cheap Electric Guitars for 2024 – Guitarsite Results”
Do you carry G.S. Wyllie stomp boxes?
Thanks,
Marty
We don’t actually sell anything ourselves – if you want to buy any of the products you see reviewed on our site then we recommend you go to Sweetwater, zZounds, Amazon.com etc.
We do however have G.S.Wyllie listed in our directory guitar equipment makers at https://www.guitarsite.com/database/Makers/rec/4334/
THANKS!