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10 Best Electric Guitars For Beginners 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, 2-Color Sunburst with Matte Finish

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,318
Neck Profile
Pickups

Most important from
1243 reviews

Neck Profile
The neck is beautifully made with smooth frets and a nicely set low action straight from the factory.
Pickups
The pickups sound great, and the guitar's components, like the tuners and knobs, function well, enhancing the overall experience.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster is a great choice for beginners, boasting the trusted Fender quality and a 2-year warranty. The body is made of poplar wood, which is both durable and lightweight, making it comfortable for all ages to hold and play. The neck features a comfortable 'C' shape and is made of maple with a laurel fingerboard, enhancing playability for new musicians. The 25.5-inch scale length is standard for Stratocasters and offers a familiar feel to aspiring guitarists.

Equipped with three single-coil pickups and a 5-way switch, this guitar allows for a variety of classic Strat tones – perfect for exploring different sounds and styles. The tremolo bridge with a removable arm adds versatility for string-bending effects, which can be exciting for beginners experimenting with their sound. Additionally, the inclusion of free lessons through Fender Play is a fantastic resource for those just starting out, allowing them to learn at their own pace and build skills by playing songs they enjoy.

However, the guitar's weight of nearly 10 pounds might be a bit heavy for younger players or those not used to holding a guitar for extended periods. Despite this, the Squier Debut Series Stratocaster offers an affordable and feature-rich option for anyone looking to begin their guitar journey.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,318
Neck Profile
Pickups

Most important from
1243 reviews

Neck Profile
The neck is beautifully made with smooth frets and a nicely set low action straight from the factory.
Pickups
The pickups sound great, and the guitar's components, like the tuners and knobs, function well, enhancing the overall experience.
#2

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit, Beginner Guitar Kit, with 2-Year Warranty, with Padded Gig Bag, Frontman 10G Amp, Strap, and More, Includes Free Lessons, Black

The Fender 6 String Electric Guitar Pack is a fantastic choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of electric guitar. This complete kit includes a Squier Debut Series Stratocaster, a Frontman 10G amplifier, and essential accessories like a padded gig bag, strap, cable, picks, and a guitar stand, making it a convenient all-in-one solution. One of its standout features is the comfortable 'C' shaped neck and lightweight body, which enhances playability for new players. Additionally, the three single-coil pickups allow for a variety of classic Strat tones, perfect for experimenting with different sounds.

A major plus is the included subscription to Fender Play, which provides free lessons tailored to help users learn their favorite songs and develop their skills. The quality of the instrument is backed by Fender's long-standing reputation, and it comes with a 2-year warranty, which reassures buyers about its durability.

There are some considerations for potential users. The guitar's scale length of 25.5 inches might feel a bit lengthy for very young players or those with smaller hands, which could affect comfort. While the SSS pickup configuration is versatile, some advanced players may eventually seek guitars with humbucker pickups for a stronger sound. Additionally, while the amp works fine for practice, it may not be sufficient for larger performances. In terms of weight, the package is relatively heavy at 29.3 pounds, which might be cumbersome for some beginners. But for those looking for a solid entry into electric guitar playing, this package offers an excellent balance of quality, affordability, and support for learning, making it a highly recommended option for both kids and adults.

#3

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, Black with Matte Finish

Rating
9.9
Neck Profile
Bridge Type

Most important from
1243 reviews

Neck Profile
The guitar is beautifully crafted with a comfortable neck shape and a satin finish that feels great and doesn't show finger grease.
Bridge Type
The tremolo bridge works well for light use, but mastering its use on a Stratocaster requires skill and can be challenging for beginners.

The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster is designed specifically for beginners, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out. The guitar features a comfortable 'C'-shaped neck and a lightweight poplar body, which enhances playability and reduces strain during practice sessions. At 9.92 pounds, it’s relatively manageable for most players, including younger ones.

The 25.5-inch scale length is standard for Stratocasters and provides a familiar feel for those learning to play. The three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching offer a versatile range of tones, allowing beginners to explore various sounds from rock to blues. Additionally, the tremolo bridge with a removable arm adds an element of fun for experimenting with string-bending effects, which can be exciting for new players.

A significant advantage is the inclusion of free lessons through a subscription to Fender Play, which can significantly aid in skill development and keep beginners motivated. The guitar's black matte finish gives it a sleek, modern look, adding to its appeal. The poplar wood used for both the body and back is durable. The Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster stands out as a robust, beginner-friendly electric guitar that provides excellent value with the backing of Fender's trusted legacy and a two-year warranty.

Rating
9.9
Neck Profile
Bridge Type

Most important from
1243 reviews

Neck Profile
The guitar is beautifully crafted with a comfortable neck shape and a satin finish that feels great and doesn't show finger grease.
Bridge Type
The tremolo bridge works well for light use, but mastering its use on a Stratocaster requires skill and can be challenging for beginners.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Guitars For Beginners

Choosing the right electric guitar as a beginner can be an exciting yet overwhelming experience. The key is to find a guitar that feels comfortable, sounds good, and inspires you to play. Understanding the different specifications and how they affect the guitar's playability and sound will help you make an informed decision. Here are some key specs to consider when picking an electric guitar for beginners.
Body TypeThe body type of an electric guitar affects its weight, comfort, and sound. There are three main types: solid body, semi-hollow body, and hollow body. Solid body guitars are the most common and versatile, making them a great choice for beginners. They are less prone to feedback and are suitable for a wide range of music styles. Semi-hollow and hollow body guitars have a warmer tone and are often used in jazz and blues, but they can be more prone to feedback. Choose a body type that feels comfortable to hold and suits the style of music you want to play.
Neck ProfileThe neck profile refers to the shape and thickness of the guitar's neck. Common profiles include C-shaped, U-shaped, and V-shaped. A C-shaped neck is generally the most comfortable for beginners as it is thinner and easier to grip. U-shaped necks are thicker and may be better for players with larger hands, while V-shaped necks have a distinct ridge that some players find comfortable. Try different neck profiles to see which one feels the best in your hand and allows you to play comfortably.
Scale LengthThe scale length is the distance between the guitar's nut and the bridge. It affects the tension of the strings and the overall feel of the guitar. Common scale lengths are 24.75 inches and 25.5 inches. A shorter scale length (24.75 inches) results in less string tension, making it easier to bend notes and play with less finger strength. A longer scale length (25.5 inches) has more string tension, which can provide a brighter tone and more sustain. Beginners may find a shorter scale length more comfortable to play, especially if they have smaller hands.
PickupsPickups are the devices that capture the sound of the strings and convert it into an electrical signal. There are two main types: single-coil and humbucker. Single-coil pickups produce a bright, clear tone and are often used in genres like rock, blues, and country. Humbucker pickups have a thicker, warmer sound and are commonly used in rock and metal. Some guitars come with a combination of both types, offering more versatility. Consider the type of music you want to play and choose pickups that match that style.
Bridge TypeThe bridge of an electric guitar affects tuning stability and the ability to perform certain techniques. There are two main types: fixed bridge and tremolo bridge. A fixed bridge is simpler and provides better tuning stability, making it a good choice for beginners. A tremolo bridge allows you to change the pitch of the strings using a whammy bar, but it can be more challenging to keep in tune. If you are just starting out, a fixed bridge may be the best option as it requires less maintenance and adjustment.
WeightThe weight of the guitar can affect your comfort, especially during long practice sessions. Electric guitars can vary significantly in weight, with some being quite heavy and others more lightweight. A lighter guitar is generally easier to handle and more comfortable for beginners, especially younger players or those with smaller frames. Try holding and playing different guitars to find one that feels comfortable for you.

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