Finding the perfect electric guitar can be both challenging and exhilarating. The term 'best' holds different meanings for different individuals, adding a subjective element to the task. However, in this comprehensive guide, we aim to navigate through this complexity and present you with our expert selection of the finest electric guitars available today.Our roundup features options catering to a wide price range, ensuring there's something for everyone, from budget-friendly models to premium offerings. Whether you prefer a straightforward and practical instrument or one adorned with intricate designs and advanced features, we've got you covered.Each guitar in our selection is crafted by reputable manufacturers known for their exceptional quality and reliability. We've also included a helpful buying advice section to assist you in making an informed decision. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, our guide will steer you towards finding the perfect electric guitar to suit your needs and preferences.Ready to explore our top picks for the best electric guitars on the market? Dive into our detailed reviews below, and use our price comparison tool to secure the best deal on your new instrument.
Best Electric Guitars 2024: Top Picks for Every Playing Style, and Budget
Fender Vintera II Tele
Vibe is a concept that's often difficult to define precisely. It encompasses the elusive quality that imbues a guitar with a particular mood or sense of coolness. While numerous guitars could potentially embody this vibe, one standout choice is the exceptional Fender Vintera '60s Telecaster Modified, which we absolutely adore. The Vintera seamlessly merges the classic Telecaster layout with innovative modifications and an abundance of that sought-after vibe.Beneath its standard alder body lies a range of unique pickup options. A special four-way switch enables the use of single-coil pickups in series, while the S-1 switch on the volume knob allows for phase inversion, providing a plethora of versatile tones to explore.
✅ Consider buying if you seek a Telecaster with diverse tonal options: This guitar boasts a wide array of tones, thanks to its unique pickup configurations allowing for series mode and phase control.
Squier Bullet Mustang
When selecting an electric guitar for a child, several factors must be taken into consideration. The guitar should be lightweight to accommodate smaller shoulders comfortably. It should be easy to play for small hands, featuring a neck size suitable for young players. Additionally, its appearance matters significantly because, at that age, aesthetics often outweigh its tonal versatility.While there are dedicated mini versions of standard guitars available, we've opted for a full-sized, well-equipped, and affordable option: the Squier Bullet Mustang. This guitar features a slightly reduced scale length, coupled with a basswood body, making it easily manageable for young players. Importantly, its double humbuckers ensure it can deliver performance comparable to most adult guitars. It stands out as one of the most impressive Squier guitars we've encountered, making it a top choice for beginner electric guitars on the market.
✅ Consider buying if you're a beginner on a budget: The Squier Bullet Mustang delivers excellent build quality and playability, making it one of the top guitars in its price range.
PRS SE Custom 24
For many enthusiasts, the Custom 24 epitomizes PRS design excellence, and the beauty of exceptional guitar design is its versatility across various price ranges. Enter the SE Custom 24, a stunning instrument that stands out as our top choice for the best electric guitar under $1,000.Featuring a Wide Thin neck profile, this guitar strikes a perfect balance between comfort and speed, while its flame maple veneer exudes a blend of opulence and flair. Every aspect of its design seems meticulously crafted to achieve a harmonious equilibrium.The SE Custom 24 line offers additional options like the visually striking Burled Ash and the premium 35th Anniversary models. Regardless of your selection, you'll enjoy a super-stable vibrato system, a bridge pickup capable of delivering a wide spectrum of tones from gritty southern rock to heavy metal, and neck humbucker tones tailor-made for blues, rock, and dynamic chord progressions. With coil-tapping functionality, you unlock a multitude of sonic possibilities, from country twang to funky rhythms and beyond.
✅ Buy if you seek versatility: The PRS Custom 24 stands out as the epitome of versatility among electric guitars. With its ability to deliver everything from aggressive hard rock tones to pristine cleans, it covers a vast sonic landscape.
ESP LTD EC-1000
The Jackson American Series Soloist SL3 not only secures the top spot for the finest shred guitar available today but also stands as one of the standout models in Jackson's current lineup.In our glowing 5-star review, we lauded this shred-focused guitar for its exceptional build quality and remarkable playability, noting, "When playing the American Series Soloist, one can unmistakably discern 40 years of guitar-making expertise and refinement, elevating it above the original model."For those in search of a premium instrument meticulously crafted for shredding prowess, we wholeheartedly recommend exploring this extraordinary Jackson model.
✅ Consider buying if you prioritize ultra-fast playability: The Soloist SL3's ultra-rigid neck and flat fingerboard profile make it ideal for executing lightning-fast shred licks.
Jackson American Series Soloist SL3
When it comes to selecting the ultimate guitars for metal, our top recommendation goes to the ESP LTD EC-1000. This remarkable metal instrument not only delivers exceptional value for money but also boasts coveted features and unparalleled playability.With a set of Fishman's Modern Fluence humbuckers, the LTD EC-1000 is equipped to handle various styles of metal effortlessly. Whether delving into thrash, doom, death metal, or '80s power metal, this budget-friendly option from ESP rises to the challenge admirably.We've found the thin-U neck to offer exceptional playability, complemented by the extra-jumbo frets and 13.8" radius, providing an ideal playing surface for executing large bends and fast legato licks.
✅ Consider buying if you seek a high-value metal guitar: The EC1000 is a popular choice among players for a reason – it offers exceptional value.
Epiphone LP Special
At axegeniuspro, our passion for the raw, gritty sound of a P-90 pickup runs deep. There's an undeniable allure to its rugged growl and sparkling highs that never fails to captivate us. That's why we couldn't resist including a P-90-equipped guitar in our lineup of the best electric guitars.Our pick for this category is none other than the Epiphone Les Paul Special, hailed as the top electric guitar under $500, and rightfully so. Adorned in the iconic Gibson TV Yellow finish and boasting a robust '50s neck profile, this guitar channels the timeless appeal of vintage instruments, offering exceptional playability, style, and tone – all at an incredibly affordable price point.
✅ Purchase if you're seeking a guitar for punk: With its straightforward design and aggressive pickups, the Les Paul Special has solidified its place in punk rock lore.
❌ Avoid if you're budget-conscious: Since this guitar is crafted in the USA, it comes with a higher price tag. While there are more budget-friendly options available in the Jackson catalog, opting for those may entail sacrificing certain features.
❌ Avoid if you prefer a traditional single-cut design: If you're after vintage tones akin to LP-style guitars, you might want to explore options from Epiphone or Gibson instead of this unconventional model.
❌ Avoid if you prioritize noise reduction: While we adore P-90 pickups, their inherent noise may not suit everyone's preferences. Opting for a humbucker-equipped guitar might be a quieter alternative for some players.
❌ Avoid if you're aiming for heavy tones: Although this guitar offers remarkable tonal versatility, it may not deliver the punch required for heavier musical styles.
❌ Avoid if you're not a beginner: While it's a solid guitar, it may lack the advanced features and capabilities desired by intermediate and advanced players.
❌ Avoid if you prefer narrower necks: While the Wide Thin neck profile is favored by many for its comfort and speed, it may not suit those who prefer a narrower neck profile.
