10 Best Electric Guitars 2025 in the United States

The Fender Squier Stratocaster in Surf Green offers a classic Stratocaster design that's well-suited for beginners and aspiring guitarists. Its lightweight poplar body makes it comfortable to play, especially during extended sessions, while the slim 'C'-shaped maple neck provides an ergonomic grip for easy handling. The tremolo bridge is ideal for those who enjoy expressive playing with pitch bends, although it may require frequent tuning adjustments from time to time. The S-S-S pickup configuration delivers a versatile range of classic Stratocaster tones, suitable for a variety of music genres but might lack the punch needed for high-gain styles. The laurel wood fretboard adds a smooth feel under the fingers, enhancing playability.

The guitar bundle includes useful accessories such as an amplifier, gig bag, cable, strap, picks, and an instructional video, making it a comprehensive starter pack. This makes it particularly appealing for beginners who want an all-in-one package. However, more seasoned players might find the included amplifier a bit basic for advanced needs.

In terms of materials, the poplar body and laurel fingerboard are budget-friendly choices that keep the costs down without sacrificing too much on quality. Its surf green color adds a visually appealing touch, setting it apart with a vintage vibe. Weighing under 9 pounds, it’s relatively easy to handle and transport. While it ranks well in popularity and customer satisfaction, more experienced guitarists might desire higher-end components and more tonal options. Nevertheless, this guitar serves as an excellent entry point into the world of electric guitars, providing the essential features needed to get started.

The ESP LTD Snakebyte Signature is a solid choice for players looking for a guitar built for heavy, powerful rhythm playing, inspired by James Hetfield of Metallica. It features a mahogany body and three-piece mahogany neck, which offer a warm, rich tone and good sustain—qualities that suit rock and metal styles well. The 24.75" scale length is comfortable for most hands, promoting easier string bending and a familiar feel for many players. The ebony fingerboard with 22 extra-jumbo frets provides a smooth surface and allows for fast, precise playing.

Equipped with James Hetfield's EMG JH SET active pickups, the guitar delivers high output and clarity, ideal for aggressive riffs and tight distortion. The TonePros locking Tune-O-Matic bridge helps keep the guitar in tune, even during intense playing. The guitar is relatively heavy at 25 pounds, which might be tiring for some during long sessions. It comes with a case and is available in two finishes, including a left-handed version, which is a nice touch.

This model fits players who prioritize durability, strong rhythm tones, and stage presence, though it may be less suited for beginners due to its specialized setup and weight.

The Squier by Fender Electric Guitar Kit, Affinity Series Stratocaster, is an attractive choice for beginners or casual players looking for an all-in-one package. It includes not only the guitar but also essential accessories like a gig bag, strap, cable, and a Frontman 15G amp, which is a nice touch for those starting out. The guitar sports a basswood body with a slim 'C' shaped maple neck, known for its comfort and ease of play, making it suitable for longer playing sessions.

The HSS pickup configuration provides versatility, allowing for a range of tones from clean to more rock-oriented sounds. However, the single-coil pickups in the middle and neck positions might not satisfy those looking for a more aggressive tone. This setup is ideal for genres like blues, pop, and rock, but may not fit heavy metal enthusiasts.

With a 25.5-inch scale length, the Affinity Stratocaster maintains a familiar feel that is common among electric guitars, making it easy for players transitioning from other models. The use of laurel wood for the fretboard and stainless steel strings also adds to the durability and playability of the instrument. The inclusion of a 2-year limited warranty underscores Fender's commitment to quality, providing peace of mind to users. However, the guitar's body material, basswood, is lighter and may not resonate as richly as higher-end woods like alder or mahogany, potentially affecting tonal depth.

While the kit offers a lot of value, serious players might find themselves outgrowing the amp and possibly the guitar as they seek higher quality sound and more advanced features. Nonetheless, given its price point and target audience, it stands as a solid starter pack with a reputable brand backing it.