10 Best Electric Guitars 2025 in the United States

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.

The Fender Squier Stratocaster Daphne Blue bundle is a great choice for beginners or hobbyists looking for a classic electric guitar setup. It carries the iconic Stratocaster design known for its versatile, bright sound thanks to its three single-coil pickups (S-S-S configuration). The poplar body keeps the guitar light and comfortable to hold during long practice sessions, while the maple neck with a slim 'C'-shaped profile offers an easy grip, especially for new players. The laurel wood fretboard provides a smooth playing surface, although it's slightly less common than rosewood or maple, which doesn’t affect playability much.

It features a vintage-style tremolo bridge, allowing some expressive pitch effects, though it may require occasional tuning adjustments if used heavily. The bundle stands out by including useful extras like a Fender Frontman 10G amplifier, cable, gig bag, strap, picks, and an instructional video — everything a beginner needs to start playing right away.

While poplar wood is a budget-friendly tonewood that doesn't offer as rich a sound as pricier woods, and the included amplifier is basic, suitable mainly for practice rather than performance, the Squier brand is known for affordability and decent quality. This package delivers excellent value and serves as a well-rounded introduction to electric guitar playing.

The Yamaha APX600 BL is a thin-body acoustic-electric guitar designed for right-handed players, offering a unique blend of comfort and performance. Its thin-line cutaway body design enhances playability, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize comfort, especially during extended playing sessions. With a 25-inch scale length and narrower string spacing, the APX600 BL caters to guitarists seeking ease of play, especially useful for beginners or those with smaller hands.

Constructed with quality tonewoods, the guitar features a spruce top and mahogany back and sides. This combination provides a balanced sound with a bit of warmth and clarity. The rosewood fretboard complements the overall build, offering a smooth playing surface.

The guitar is equipped with a stage-focused pickup system that allows players to shape their sound effectively, making it suitable for live performances. However, it's important to note that the fixed bridge system may not cater to those looking for more versatile tuning options found in some electric guitars with tremolo bridges.

A noteworthy feature is the newly designed scalloped bracing pattern aimed at enhancing bass response. This is a plus for players looking for improved low-end tones compared to typical thin-bodied guitars. The abalone sound hole rosette adds a touch of visual appeal, making the guitar attractive both in sound and aesthetics.

The Yamaha APX600 BL is a solid choice for players looking for a stylish, comfortable, and performance-ready acoustic-electric guitar, particularly suitable for beginners and intermediate players who perform live.