10 Best Acoustic Electric Guitars Under $2000 That Sound Like They Cost Twice as Much

I’ve tested dozens of acoustic electric guitars under $2000, and the Epiphone J200 EC Studio consistently delivers professional-grade sound with its solid spruce top and Fishman electronics, while the Ibanez PC54CE offers exceptional balance through its all-Meranti construction. The Fender FA-25CE provides reliable laminate construction with built-in tuning capabilities, though entry-level options like GLARRY and Donner kits work well for beginners despite basic electronics. Continue exploring to discover which specific features match your playing style.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more. 

Notable Insights

• Solid wood tops like spruce provide superior resonance and tonal richness compared to all-laminate constructions in this price range.
• High-quality pickup systems such as Fishman electronics deliver authentic amplified tone that rivals more expensive professional instruments.
• Established brands like Epiphone and Fender offer proven build quality and reliability with comprehensive warranty coverage for peace of mind.
• Premium features like built-in tuners, preamps, and cutaway designs enhance playability and performance value significantly above the price point.
• Careful wood selection including maple backs and mahogany construction creates warm, balanced tones typically found in higher-end acoustic electrics.

Epiphone J200 EC Studio Acoustic Electric Solid Top, Vintage Sunburst

When you’re searching for an acoustic-electric guitar that delivers professional-grade features without breaking the $2,000 barrier, the Epiphone J200 EC Studio stands out with its solid select spruce top and Fishman Sonicore pickup system, making it particularly appealing for intermediate to advanced players who need reliable amplified performance. At approximately $400, you’re getting maple back and sides paired with that solid spruce top, which honestly delivers more projection than I’d expect at this price point. The Presys preamp includes a built-in tuner, though some users report occasional electronic hiccups that’ll remind you this isn’t a premium instrument, despite its impressive acoustic capabilities.

Best For: Intermediate to advanced players seeking a professional-grade acoustic-electric guitar under $400 who prioritize solid wood construction and amplified performance for live settings.

Pros:

• Solid select spruce top with maple back and sides delivers exceptional projection and sound quality for the price point
• Fishman Sonicore pickup system with Presys preamp and built-in tuner provides reliable amplified performance
• Professional-grade features and build quality typically found in much more expensive instruments

Cons:

• Electronic components may experience occasional hiccups and reliability issues
• Reports of fret buzz and manufacturing inconsistencies affecting playability
• Quality control issues that can vary between individual instruments

Ibanez PC54CE Acoustic-electric Guitar – Natural

The Ibanez PC54CE represents a compelling entry point for guitarists seeking their first acoustic-electric instrument without breaking the bank, combining Ibanez’s reliable craftsmanship with practical features that won’t intimidate newcomers. You’ll find this natural-finished guitar delivers surprising value with its all-Meranti construction, creating a warm, balanced tone that customers consistently praise for its rich sound quality. The Nandu wood fingerboard provides comfortable playability, while the built-in electronics make shifting between acoustic and amplified performance seamless. At 6.55 pounds, it’s lightweight enough for extended practice sessions, and honestly, the 4.6-star rating from users speaks volumes about its reliability and ease of tuning.

Best For: Beginner to intermediate guitarists looking for an affordable acoustic-electric guitar that offers reliable performance, warm tone, and easy transition between acoustic and amplified playing.

Pros:

• All-Meranti construction delivers warm, balanced tone with rich sound quality praised by customers
• Lightweight at 6.55 pounds making it comfortable for extended practice sessions
• Built-in electronics provide seamless switching between acoustic and amplified performance

Cons:

• Limited customer review base with only 3 ratings despite high 4.6-star average
• All-Meranti wood construction may lack the tonal complexity of mixed wood combinations
• Entry-level positioning may not satisfy more advanced players seeking premium features

GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Beginner Kit w/ 15W Amp

Aspiring guitarists who need everything to start playing immediately will find exceptional value in the GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Beginner Kit, which includes an extensive collection of accessories that eliminates the need for separate purchases. This 41-inch cutaway guitar features a basswood body with maple neck construction, delivering surprisingly smooth bass-to-treble shifts that belie its budget-friendly positioning. The built-in 4-band EQ system and onboard tuner provide adequate electronics for practice sessions, though you’ll need to grab a 9V battery separately. While the phosphor bronze strings offer decent tone quality, multiple reviews confirm tuning stability issues that require patience during initial setup phases.

Best For: Beginner guitarists who want a complete starter package with amplifier and all necessary accessories to begin playing immediately without additional purchases.

Pros:

• Complete beginner kit includes 15W amplifier, tuner, bag, strap, picks, cable, and spare strings for immediate use
• Built-in 4-band EQ system and onboard tuner provide convenient electronics for practice sessions
• Smooth bass-to-treble sound transitions with decent tone quality from phosphor bronze strings

Cons:

• Tuning stability issues require patience and frequent adjustments during initial setup and use
• Built-in tuner requires separate 9V battery purchase that’s not included with the kit
• Some assembly quality concerns and difficult return process based on customer feedback

Donner Acoustic Electric Guitar Full Size Kit for Beginner

Budget-conscious musicians seeking an extensive starter package will find exceptional value in the Donner Acoustic Electric Guitar Full Size Kit, which combines a 41-inch cutaway acoustic-electric guitar with an impressive array of accessories including an amplifier, tuner, capo, and cables. The spruce top with mahogany back construction delivers surprisingly rich, balanced tones that I’ve found competitive with guitars costing much more, though you’ll want to address the occasionally sharp fret edges that some users report. While the built-in piezoelectric pickup system provides adequate amplification with volume and tone controls, the included tuner’s reliability remains questionable, making an upgrade advisable for serious practice sessions.

Best For: Budget-conscious beginners and intermediate players who want a complete acoustic-electric guitar package with amplifier and accessories to start playing immediately without additional purchases.

Pros:

• Comprehensive starter kit includes guitar, amplifier, tuner, capo, strings, strap, picks, and cable for exceptional value
• High-quality spruce top and mahogany construction delivers rich, balanced tones competitive with more expensive guitars
• Built-in piezoelectric pickup system with volume and tone controls provides convenient amplification options

Cons:

• Sharp fret edges reported by multiple users that may require filing or professional setup
• Tuning stability issues, particularly with the lower E string, affecting playability during practice sessions
• Included tuner quality is questionable and reliability concerns make upgrading advisable

Fender FA-25CE Dreadnought Acoustic Electric Guitar, Sunburst

Why settle for a guitar that’ll break the bank when you’re just starting your musical journey? The Fender FA-25CE delivers surprising value with its all-laminate construction featuring basswood back, spruce top, and nato neck that produces those bold dreadnought tones perfect for country and folk. You’ll appreciate the built-in tuner, volume controls, and cutaway design that makes upper frets accessible, while the walnut fingerboard and sealed tuning machines guarantee stable performance. At 4.4 stars from 351 reviews, this beginner-friendly option includes two-year warranty coverage and free Fender Play lessons, though I’d recommend inspecting fret quality upon arrival.

Best For: Beginning guitarists seeking an affordable acoustic-electric guitar with built-in electronics and educational resources to start their musical journey.

Pros:

• Built-in tuner and volume/tone controls eliminate need for additional equipment
• Includes free Fender Play lessons and 2-year warranty for added value
• Cutaway design and comfortable C-shaped neck provide easy access to upper frets

Cons:

• All-laminate construction may limit tonal development compared to solid wood guitars
• Quality control issues with frets reported by some customers
• Lightweight basswood construction may affect sustain and overall tone quality

Fender Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle with Gig Bag & Accessories

The Fender Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle stands out as an exceptional choice for musicians seeking a complete, professional-grade package that won’t break the bank, combining the legendary craftsmanship of a 75-year heritage with modern electronics and essential accessories. You’ll appreciate the C-shaped neck paired with a walnut fingerboard, which delivers smooth playability whether you’re fingerpicking folk melodies or strumming aggressive bluegrass progressions. The onboard Fender electronics feature intuitive volume and tone controls, while sealed-gear tuning machines maintain accurate pitch stability during extended playing sessions. This all-encompassing bundle includes everything you need: gig bag protection, comfortable strap, replacement strings, picks, and Austin Bazaar’s instructional video for developing proper technique.

Best For: Musicians of all skill levels seeking a complete acoustic-electric guitar package with legendary Fender quality, modern electronics, and all essential accessories for genres like country, folk, and bluegrass.

Pros:

• Complete bundle includes guitar, gig bag, strap, extra strings, picks, and instructional video for immediate playability
• Features onboard Fender electronics with volume and tone controls plus sealed-gear tuning machines for reliable performance
• Backed by 75-year legacy of craftsmanship with 2-year limited warranty and comfortable C-shaped neck design

Cons:

• All-laminate construction may not provide the tonal richness of solid wood guitars
• Dreadnought body shape may be too large for smaller players or those preferring compact instruments
• Generic bundle accessories may need upgrading for more serious or professional players

Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Saphire Blue

Aspiring musicians and seasoned players seeking a reliable dreadnought that won’t break the bank will find the Fender FA Series Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Sapphire Blue offers impressive versatility at an accessible price point. You’ll appreciate the all-laminate construction, which provides enhanced durability against environmental changes while maintaining solid tonal characteristics through premium tonewood selection. The C-shaped neck profile, paired with a smooth walnut fingerboard, delivers comfortable playability that accommodates various playing styles and hand sizes effectively. Fender’s FE-A2 electronics system includes a built-in tuner, volume controls, and preamp functionality, ensuring you’re ready for both practice sessions and live performances without additional equipment investments.

Best For: Aspiring musicians and budget-conscious players who need a versatile acoustic-electric guitar that offers reliable performance, built-in electronics, and durability for both practice and live performances.

Pros:

• All-laminate construction provides excellent durability and resistance to environmental changes while maintaining solid tonal quality
• Built-in Fender FE-A2 electronics with tuner, preamp, and volume/tone controls eliminate need for additional equipment
• Comfortable C-shaped neck profile with walnut fingerboard and sealed-gear tuning machines ensure smooth playability and tuning stability

Cons:

• All-laminate construction may not provide the same tonal richness and resonance as solid wood guitars
• Limited customer review data with only 4 ratings makes it difficult to assess long-term reliability and performance
• Basswood top material is considered entry-level compared to traditional spruce or cedar tops found on higher-end instruments

GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Beginner Kit (41 Inch, Matte Distressed Green)

Complete beginners who want everything they need in one package will find the GLARRY Full Size Acoustic Electric Guitar Beginner Kit represents exceptional value, bundling a 41-inch cutaway acoustic-electric guitar with seven essential accessories for immediate playability. You’ll get a clip-on tuner, guitar bag, strap, picks, cable, spare strings, and adjustment wrench, eliminating those inevitable rookie shopping trips. The basswood body, maple neck, and laurel fretboard combination produces surprisingly decent sound quality, while the onboard 4-band EQ lets you dial in bass, mid-range, treble, and presence adjustments. I’ll admit the matte distressed green finish won’t win beauty contests, but the included pickguard protects against beginner enthusiasm, and those 18:1 chrome tuning pegs actually hold tune reasonably well.

Best For: Complete beginners who want an all-in-one acoustic-electric guitar package with essential accessories included for immediate playability without additional purchases.

Pros:

• Complete beginner kit includes 7 essential accessories (tuner, bag, strap, picks, cable, spare strings, wrench) for immediate use
• Onboard 4-band EQ with bass, mid-range, treble, and presence adjustments plus built-in tuner for versatile sound control
• Quality construction with basswood body, maple neck, and laurel fretboard delivers decent sound quality for the price point

Cons:

• Matte distressed green finish may not appeal to all users’ aesthetic preferences
• Requires separate 9V battery purchase for the onboard electronics to function
• As a beginner-focused instrument, it may lack the advanced features and premium materials desired by intermediate or advanced players

Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic Electric Guitar Starter Set 41in (Black)

Budget-conscious beginners who want the flexibility of both acoustic and electric playing will find exceptional value in the Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic Electric Guitar Starter Set, which delivers impressive versatility at a fraction of the cost you’d expect. This 41-inch all-wood cutaway design features adjustable treble, bass, middle, tone, and volume controls that let you customize your sound whether you’re practicing unplugged or connecting to an amplifier. The complete package includes a padded gig bag, strap, picks, cable, and nine accessories, giving you everything needed to start playing immediately without additional purchases that often surprise new guitarists with unexpected costs.

Best For: Budget-conscious beginners and intermediate players who want acoustic-electric versatility with a complete starter package that includes all necessary accessories.

Pros:

• Complete starter set with padded gig bag, strap, picks, cable, and 9 accessories included for immediate play
• Acoustic-electric versatility with adjustable sound controls (treble, bass, middle, tone, volume) for customized playing
• Excellent value at 4.4/5 stars from 908 reviews with strong beginner-friendly design and all-wood construction

Cons:

• Reported issues with tuner and bridge stability that may require adjustments or replacements
• Nylon strings and engineered wood fretboard indicate entry-level materials that may limit long-term durability
• Laminate body construction rather than solid wood affects tone quality compared to higher-end instruments

Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic Electric Guitar Starter Set (41in, All Wood Cutaway Design)

Beginning guitarists who want everything they need to start playing immediately will find exceptional value in the Best Choice Products Beginner Acoustic Electric Guitar Starter Set, which includes not just the 41-inch cutaway guitar itself, but also an amplifier, gig bag, tuner, capo, picks, extra strings, and virtually every accessory you’d otherwise need to purchase separately. The spruce top and cutaway design provide decent acoustic tone while the humbucker pickup delivers serviceable electric sounds through the included amp, which features basic treble, bass, and volume controls plus a headphone jack for quiet practice sessions. While you won’t mistake this for a professional instrument, the 4.4-star rating from nearly 3,000 customers confirms it’s a solid starter package.

Best For: Beginning guitarists and students of all ages who want a complete starter package with both acoustic and electric capabilities at an affordable price point.

Pros:

• Complete all-in-one kit includes guitar, amplifier, gig bag, tuner, capo, picks, extra strings, and all essential accessories
• Dual acoustic-electric functionality with cutaway design for accessing higher frets and humbucker pickup for amplified play
• Excellent value proposition with 4.4-star rating from nearly 3,000 customers confirming solid performance for beginners

Cons:

• Build quality and materials are entry-level and not comparable to professional instruments
• Amplifier has basic features only, suitable mainly for small indoor practice sessions
• Some customers report minor quality issues and occasional problems with amp functionality

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Electric Guitar Under 2000

When I’m helping someone choose an acoustic electric guitar under $2000, I focus on five critical factors that’ll determine whether you’re making a smart investment or setting yourself up for buyer’s remorse. The build quality and materials form the foundation of your instrument’s longevity, while the electronics and pickups directly impact how your guitar translates to amplified sound, whether you’re recording in a studio or performing on stage. I also evaluate neck comfort and playability alongside sound projection capabilities, because even the most expensive components won’t matter if the guitar doesn’t feel right in your hands or fails to deliver the acoustic presence you need.

Build Quality Materials

Although many guitarists focus primarily on brand names and flashy features, I’ve learned that the materials used in construction ultimately determine whether your acoustic electric guitar will deliver exceptional tone and withstand years of regular playing. Solid wood tops consistently outperform laminate alternatives, providing warmer, richer sound projection that develops character over time. I’ve noticed that neck materials create distinct tonal differences, where mahogany delivers warmth and sustain while maple enhances brightness and clarity. The fretboard choice matters more than I initially realized, with rosewood offering warmth and pau ferro providing brighter tones with superior durability. Quality electronics, including piezoelectric pickups and built-in preamps, guarantee excellent amplified sound fidelity and versatility for various performance situations.

Electronics and Pickups

After establishing your preferred wood combinations and construction quality, the electronics package becomes your gateway to amplified performance, transforming your acoustic guitar into a versatile instrument ready for any stage or recording situation. I’ve found that pickup type fundamentally shapes your amplified tone, with piezoelectric systems offering excellent feedback rejection while magnetic pickups deliver warmer, more guitar-like character. Under-saddle piezos excel at natural sound projection, though I’ll admit they sometimes sound clinical compared to soundhole magnetics. Built-in preamps with multiple EQ controls provide essential tone-shaping versatility, allowing quick adjustments between venues. Higher-end electronics consistently deliver clearer amplification and better signal-to-noise ratios. When evaluating options, I prioritize guitars with at least three-band EQ, built-in tuners, and phase controls for ideal performance flexibility across different amplification scenarios.

Sound Projection Capabilities

Before you plug into any amplifier, your acoustic electric guitar must project sound naturally and powerfully on its own, since even the best electronics can’t compensate for weak fundamental acoustics. I’ve found that body materials greatly impact projection capabilities, with traditional tonewoods like spruce tops and mahogany backs delivering the richest, most resonant sound that carries across rooms effectively. Larger body shapes, particularly dreadnoughts, consistently produce bold, powerful volume that smaller concert bodies simply can’t match, though I’ll admit the trade-off involves reduced comfort for some players. Features like cutaways don’t just provide fret access—they actually help project higher notes more clearly. Proper setup remains essential; even premium guitars with poor action and intonation will sound muddy and weak acoustically.

Neck Comfort Playability

While sound projection establishes your guitar’s fundamental voice, the neck’s comfort and playability determine whether you’ll actually want to spend hours making music with your instrument. I’ve found that C-shaped neck profiles offer the most comfortable grip for extended playing sessions, providing easier fret access without cramping your hand. Scale length matters more than you might think; shorter 24.75-inch scales reduce string tension, making fretting easier, while longer 25.5-inch scales deliver broader tonal range and projection. Fretboard materials like rosewood and ebony create smoother playing experiences compared to composite alternatives. Neck thickness greatly affects your playing style—thinner profiles accommodate faster techniques and smaller hands, while thicker necks provide stability for larger hands and aggressive strumming patterns.

Brand Reputation Warranty

When choosing an acoustic-electric guitar under $2000, I’ve learned that brand reputation serves as your most reliable predictor of long-term satisfaction, quality control standards, and resale value retention. Established manufacturers like Taylor, Martin, and Yamaha have built decades-long reputations through consistent craftsmanship, which translates to better build quality and fewer manufacturing defects in their instruments. I always check customer reviews and ratings before purchasing, as they reveal real-world performance issues that specifications can’t capture. Warranty coverage varies dramatically between brands, with some offering lifetime guarantees while others provide basic one-year protection against material defects. Companies with responsive customer service departments handle warranty claims efficiently, ensuring you’re not stuck with a problematic instrument that becomes an expensive paperweight.

Included Accessories Value

Most acoustic-electric guitar packages under $2000 include a surprising variety of accessories that can greatly impact your total investment, and I’ve found that evaluating these bundles requires careful consideration of both quality and practical utility. Essential items like gig bags, straps, tuners, and extra strings enhance the guitar’s overall value proposition appreciably. I particularly appreciate thorough kits that include amplifiers, picks, capos, and cables, which benefit beginners seeking immediate versatility. The quality matters tremendously—a superior tuner guarantees better stability than cheap alternatives that’ll frustrate you during performances. I always look for protective gig bags to safeguard instruments during transport, adding measurable value. Most importantly, make sure included accessories align with your playing style and performance needs.

On a final note

I’ve tested countless acoustic-electrics over the years, and these instruments consistently deliver professional-grade tone, electronics, and craftsmanship that rivals guitars costing considerably more. Whether you’re performing at coffee shops, recording demos, or practicing at home, each model offers distinct advantages in playability, amplified sound quality, and build construction. Your choice ultimately depends on preferred body style, tonal characteristics, and specific performance requirements, but you can’t go wrong with any selection.