10 Best Cheap Bass Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Yamaha TRBX304 CAR 4-String Electric Bass Guitar is an attractive and affordable option for bassists seeking a solid and versatile instrument. With a body made of solid mahogany, it promises a rich and warm tonal quality. The five-piece maple and mahogany neck enhances durability and playability, making it suitable for extended playing sessions.

This bass features active electronics and a performance EQ switch, allowing players to easily switch between different playing styles such as slap, pick, flat, finger, or solo, adding to its versatility. The individual adjustable bridge system helps maintain precise intonation and string height adjustments, catering to different playing preferences. Weighing 4.2 kilograms, it is relatively comfortable to handle and play, though it might feel a bit heavy for those used to lighter instruments.

On the downside, the use of laminated and solid wood for the body might not appeal to purists who prefer a fully solid wood construction. Additionally, the necessity of a 9V battery for active electronics means keeping spares handy. The Candy Apple Red color gives it a striking appearance, making it stand out visually. This bass guitar is a strong contender for beginner to intermediate players looking for quality on a budget.

The Fender 4 String bass-guitar-package in 3-Color Sunburst offers a comprehensive starter kit for beginners. The Squier Affinity Series Precision bass guitar included in the pack is known for its lightweight poplar body and slim 'C' shaped neck, making it comfortable for extended play sessions. The PJ pickup configuration adds versatility, allowing players to experiment with different sounds and styles.

This package also includes a padded gig bag, Rumble 15 bass amp, guitar strap, and a 10-inch cable, making it a convenient all-in-one solution for new players. Additionally, the free 3-month subscription to Fender Play offers valuable learning resources for beginners.

The bass guitar features a fixed bridge, which tends to be more stable and requires less maintenance than other bridge types. While some might prefer higher quality woods for richer tones, the neck made of poplar may not be as durable as harder woods used in more expensive models. With a 2-year limited warranty, Fender promises reliability in construction, but the manual operation mode might be less appealing to those seeking advanced features. Despite these minor drawbacks, this package is a solid choice for those looking to start their bass guitar journey without breaking the bank.

The Fender Squier Affinity Precision Bass PJ is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable bass guitar that comes with everything you need to get started. Its body is made from poplar, which keeps it lightweight and easy to handle, especially for beginners. The maple neck has a slim, comfortable 'C' shape which makes playing easier for smaller hands, and the Indian laurel fingerboard adds a smooth feel under your fingers. The bass features a PJ pickup setup—a split single-coil Precision Bass pickup at the neck and a single-coil Jazz Bass pickup at the bridge—giving you a versatile sound that can cover a range of music styles from punchy rock to smoother jazz tones. It has 20 frets and a 4-saddle standard bridge, which is solid for tuning stability and basic playability.

The bundle includes a Fender Rumble 15 amplifier, cable, gig bag, tuner, strap, and an instructional DVD, making it very convenient as a starter pack. Some might find the poplar body less resonant compared to higher-end woods, and the amp provided is quite basic, suited mainly for practicing at home. For those seeking a reliable, budget-friendly bass with a solid starter kit, this Fender Squier bundle is a smart pick, especially for beginners ready to explore different bass tones.