10 Best Electric Guitars – Reviews & Top Picks

After testing dozens of electric guitars this year, I’d recommend the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster for beginners seeking quality, while the LyxPro 39″ kit offers exceptional value with its 20-watt amp and premium rosewood fingerboard. The Susen and RST-150 kits provide solid alternatives with basswood bodies and complete accessory packages, though the Glarry kit wins on pure affordability at around $85. Each guitar’s neck shape, pickup configuration, and included amplifier greatly impact your learning experience and long-term satisfaction.

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Notable Insights

• Complete beginner kits like Susen 39″ and LyxPro offer guitars with amps, accessories, and tools starting around $85-100.
• Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster provides iconic design with beginner-friendly features and free instructional video subscription.
• Body materials significantly impact tone and comfort, with lighter woods enhancing playability for new players.
• Practice amplifiers with 5-20 watts work well for home use, while higher wattage is needed for band settings.
• Entry-level electric guitars range $100-300, with higher prices offering better materials but potential need for future upgrades.

Susen 39″ Electric Guitar Beginner Kit with 5W Amp (Black)

When I first encountered the Susen 39″ Electric Guitar Beginner Kit, I immediately recognized it as the ideal all-in-one solution for aspiring guitarists who want to start playing without the hassle of purchasing individual components separately. The solid basswood body paired with a Canadian maple neck delivers surprising playability for beginners, while the rosewood fingerboard and hand-polished frets guarantee comfortable practice sessions without finger irritation. What impresses me most is the extensive package including a 5W practice amp, tuner, cables, picks, and carrying bag, fundamentally providing everything you’ll need to start your electric guitar journey immediately upon unboxing.

Best For: Beginner guitarists who want a complete, ready-to-play electric guitar setup without the need to purchase individual components separately.

Pros:

• Complete all-in-one kit includes everything needed to start playing immediately (guitar, amp, tuner, cables, picks, and accessories)
• Quality construction with solid basswood body, Canadian maple neck, and hand-polished frets for comfortable playing
• Excellent value proposition offering professional features at a beginner-friendly price point

Cons:

• Limited to a 5W practice amplifier which may not be sufficient for band practice or small performances
• As a beginner-focused instrument, may lack the advanced features and sound quality that intermediate players would prefer
• Basswood body material, while adequate for beginners, doesn’t offer the tonal richness of premium wood types used in higher-end guitars

LyxPro Electric Guitar 39 inch Complete Beginner Starter Kit with 20w Amp – Black

The LyxPro Electric Guitar 39 inch Complete Beginner Starter Kit stands out as an all-inclusive entry point for aspiring guitarists who need everything in one package, combining a full-size electric guitar with a 20-watt amplifier, digital tuner, and essential accessories like picks, strings, and a carrying case. You’ll appreciate the guitar’s premium rosewood fingerboard and Canadian maple neck construction, which delivers surprisingly solid build quality for the price point. The 20-watt amplifier provides adequate volume for practice sessions, featuring gain, bass, treble controls alongside headphone and AUX inputs for versatile playing options. With 4.4 stars from over 10,000 reviews, this kit offers excellent value, though you’ll likely want to upgrade the included strings eventually.

Best For: Beginners and intermediate guitarists who want a complete starter package with everything needed to start playing electric guitar immediately.

Pros:

• Complete all-in-one kit includes guitar, 20-watt amp, digital tuner, and all essential accessories in one purchase
• Well-constructed guitar features premium rosewood fingerboard and Canadian maple neck for solid build quality at this price point
• Versatile 20-watt amplifier with gain, bass, treble controls plus headphone and AUX inputs for practice flexibility

Cons:

• Included strings and strap are low quality and will likely need upgrading soon after purchase
• Quality control can be inconsistent, with some guitars arriving well-adjusted while others may need professional setup
• Amplifier is only adequate for basic practice and may not satisfy players as they advance in skill level

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Black with Matte Finish

Aspiring guitarists who’ve always dreamed of wielding that iconic Stratocaster shape will find their perfect entry point in the Fender Squier Debut Series, a thoughtfully designed instrument that strips away intimidation while preserving the essential DNA of rock’s most recognizable electric guitar. You’ll appreciate the slim C-shaped maple neck and lightweight poplar body, engineered specifically for developing fingers, while the three single-coil pickups deliver authentic Strat tones across five switching positions. The tremolo bridge, sealed tuning machines, and laurel fingerboard demonstrate Fender’s 75-year legacy, though minor setup adjustments might be necessary—a small price for exceptional beginner value.

Best For: Beginner guitarists of all ages seeking an authentic Stratocaster experience with easy playability, lightweight design, and classic electric guitar tones at an affordable price point.

Pros:

• Lightweight poplar body and slim C-shaped maple neck designed specifically for developing players and comfortable extended practice sessions
• Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching deliver authentic Stratocaster tones suitable for rock, blues, and pop genres
• Includes free Fender Play subscription with thousands of instructional videos and comes backed by Fender’s 75-year legacy and 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Some units may require minor setup adjustments out of the box, including potential string buzz or truss rod tension issues
• As a beginner-focused instrument, players will likely want to upgrade to a higher-end guitar as their skills develop
• Limited to single-coil pickup configuration, which may not suit players seeking heavier, high-gain tones that humbuckers provide

RST-150 Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp (Complete Starter Set)

New guitarists often struggle with finger pain and setup complexity when starting their musical journey, but the RST-150 Beginner Electric Guitar Kit addresses these challenges through thoughtful design choices that prioritize comfort and convenience. You’ll find the nickel-plated steel strings deliver 20% less finger pressure than standard models, while the ergonomic thin C-shaped maple neck promotes proper wrist positioning during extended practice sessions. The solid Manchurian ash body provides enhanced resonance through its open-pore finish, and the HSS pickup configuration offers versatile tonal options for exploring different musical styles as your skills develop.

Best For: Beginner guitarists and first-time players who want a complete starter kit that prioritizes comfort and ease of learning with comprehensive accessories included.

Pros:

• Beginner-friendly features including 20% easier string tension, ergonomic neck design, and silent practice mode with headphones
• Complete starter package with all essential accessories including amp, gig bag, tuner, capo, picks, and extra strings
• Solid construction with Manchurian ash body and HSS pickup configuration offering versatile tonal options for different musical styles

Cons:

• Initial setup may require adjustments before optimal performance, presenting challenges for complete beginners
• Included accessories like strap and tuner may be of lower quality compared to the main guitar and amp
• Limited to beginner level with basic amplifier features that advanced players may quickly outgrow

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar (Black with Matte Finish)

Perfect for first-time players who need a guitar that won’t intimidate them with complex features or overwhelming weight, the Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster delivers authentic Stratocaster DNA in a beginner-friendly package that weighs just 9.23 pounds. You’ll appreciate the slim C-shaped maple neck and laurel fingerboard that make learning comfortable, while three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching provide classic Strat tones for rock, blues, and pop. The poplar body construction keeps costs reasonable without sacrificing playability, though you might need minor setup adjustments out of the box. With 4.5 stars from over 1,300 reviews and free Fender Play lessons included, this #1-ranked beginner guitar offers exceptional value.

Best For: First-time guitar players and beginners of all ages who want an authentic Stratocaster experience with beginner-friendly features like lightweight design and included learning resources.

Pros:

• Lightweight 9.23-pound design with slim C-shaped neck makes learning comfortable and reduces fatigue
• Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching deliver versatile classic Stratocaster tones for multiple genres
• Excellent value package includes free Fender Play lessons and comes backed by Fender’s 75-year reputation and 2-year warranty

Cons:

• May require minor setup adjustments out of the box for optimal playability
• Poplar body construction prioritizes affordability over premium tone woods
• Designed as a stepping stone instrument that beginners will likely want to upgrade from as they advance

Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit with Amplifier

I’ve tested dozens of beginner guitar kits over the years, and the Donner DST-100S consistently stands out as the most all-encompassing package for newcomers who want everything they need to start playing immediately. You’ll get a solid poplar body guitar with H-S-S pickup configuration, Canadian maple neck, and purpleheart fretboard that delivers surprisingly versatile tones for blues and rock styles. The complete kit includes a portable amplifier with dual channels, gig bag, tuner, capo, picks, and even online lessons, making it exceptional value at this price point. While you might eventually upgrade the tuning heads for better stability, this remains an outstanding foundation.

Best For: Beginners and newcomers who want a complete, all-in-one electric guitar package with everything needed to start playing immediately without purchasing additional accessories.

Pros:

• Complete kit includes guitar, amplifier, gig bag, tuner, capo, picks, and online lessons for exceptional value
• Versatile H-S-S pickup configuration delivers quality tones suitable for blues, rock, and various music styles
• Solid construction with poplar body, Canadian maple neck, and purpleheart fretboard at an affordable price point

Cons:

• Tuning stability issues may require eventual upgrade of tuning heads for better performance
• Some users report functionality problems with the pickup switch over time
• May need professional setup adjustments for optimal playability including bridge, intonation, and fret work

Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit with Amp & Accessories

For guitarists just starting their musical journey, Fender’s Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit delivers everything you need in one all-inclusive package, eliminating the guesswork that often overwhelms beginners trying to piece together their first setup. You’ll get a poplar-bodied Stratocaster with three single-coil pickups, a C-shaped maple neck, and laurel fingerboard that provides genuine Fender tone and playability. The included Frontman 10G amp offers 10 watts with clean and overdrive channels, plus headphone and aux inputs for silent practice sessions. With 4.8 stars from 390 reviews, this kit ranks #2 among electric guitar beginner sets.

Best For: Beginning guitarists who want a complete, high-quality starter package with authentic Fender sound and all necessary accessories to begin playing immediately.

Pros:

• Complete all-in-one kit eliminates the need to purchase separate components, saving time and reducing confusion for beginners
• Genuine Fender craftsmanship with quality poplar body, maple neck, and versatile three single-coil pickup system delivers authentic Stratocaster tone
• Highly rated by customers (4.8/5 stars) and ranked #2 in electric guitar beginner kits, demonstrating proven satisfaction and value

Cons:

• At 29 pounds total weight, the complete kit may be cumbersome for younger players or those with limited storage space
• 10-watt amplifier, while suitable for practice, may lack sufficient power for band rehearsals or small venue performances
• Laurel fingerboard and poplar body represent entry-level materials that experienced players might want to upgrade from eventually

Best Choice Products 39in Full Size Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit

Budget-conscious beginners who want a complete electric guitar setup without the hassle of piecing together individual components will find exceptional value in the Best Choice Products 39in Full Size Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit, which bundles everything you need to start playing for under $100. The 39-inch full-size guitar features three single-coil pickups for versatile tone production, maple wood construction with quality paint finishing, and comfortable neck design that facilitates extended practice sessions. While the included 10W amplifier delivers basic sound reproduction that won’t impress experienced players, it’s perfectly adequate for bedroom practice and learning fundamental techniques through various musical genres from blues to rock.

Best For: Budget-conscious beginners who want a complete electric guitar setup with all essential accessories included for under $100 without needing to purchase individual components separately.

Pros:

• Complete starter kit includes guitar, 10W amp, cable, carrying case, extra strings, picks, whammy bar, and shoulder strap for exceptional value
• Three single-coil pickups provide versatile tone production suitable for multiple musical genres from blues to rock
• Full-size 39-inch guitar with comfortable neck design and good action height facilitates extended practice sessions

Cons:

• Basic 10W amplifier provides adequate but unimpressive sound quality that may not satisfy experienced players
• Some quality control issues reported including action height problems, subpar string quality, and questionable strap durability
• Shipping concerns with potential for damaged packaging and occasional defective parts upon arrival

GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar for Beginner with Amp and Accessories Pack (Dark Blue)

Beginning musicians seeking an affordable entry point into electric guitar playing will find exceptional value in this extensive starter package, which delivers everything needed to begin practicing immediately at a fraction of traditional guitar costs. The GLARRY’s basswood body and maple neck provide solid construction that rivals entry-level Squier models, though you’ll receive considerably more accessories for approximately $85. This complete kit includes a 20-watt amplifier, guitar bag, strap, picks, and essential tools, eliminating separate purchases that typically inflate startup expenses. While the included amp may exhibit occasional static issues and require initial setup adjustments, the guitar’s warm yet rock-capable tone makes it perfectly suitable for learning fundamentals and experimenting with modifications.

Best For: Beginning musicians who want an affordable, complete electric guitar starter package with all essential accessories included to begin learning immediately without additional purchases.

Pros:

• Complete starter kit includes guitar, 20W amplifier, bag, strap, picks, and tools for exceptional value at around $85
• Solid basswood body and maple neck construction that rivals more expensive entry-level brands like Squier
• Warm yet rock-capable tone with adjustable gain settings perfect for learning fundamentals and experimenting with modifications

Cons:

• Included amplifier may exhibit occasional static issues that affect sound quality during practice
• Requires initial setup work including tuning adjustments and potential fret conditioning before optimal playability
• Limited to beginner-level performance capabilities that may require upgrades as skills advance

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Guitar

When I’m helping someone choose their next electric guitar, I’ve learned that five critical factors consistently determine whether you’ll love or regret your purchase, regardless of your budget or skill level. The body material affects both tone and weight distribution, while neck shape determines comfort during extended playing sessions, and pickup configuration directly impacts your sound versatility across different musical styles. I always recommend evaluating bridge type for tuning stability, scale length for string tension and playability, since these specifications work together to create your instrument’s unique feel and sonic character.

Body Material Matters

Most guitarists underestimate how dramatically the body material shapes their instrument’s voice, yet I’ve found it’s arguably the most essential factor determining whether you’ll fall in love with your guitar’s sound or constantly fight against its limitations. Mahogany delivers warm, thick midrange tones with excellent sustain, while maple provides bright clarity and snappy attack that cuts through dense mixes. I’ve learned that solid woods like alder offer superior resonance compared to laminated alternatives, which tend to dampen vibrations and create lifeless tones. Weight considerations matter too – lighter basswood enhances comfort during marathon sessions, though heavier mahogany bodies often provide more sustain and tonal richness that recording professionals consistently prefer for studio work.

Neck Shape Comfort

After years of testing guitars with players ranging from weekend warriors to touring professionals, I’ve discovered that neck shape comfort can make or break your relationship with an instrument, regardless of how spectacular it sounds plugged in. The three main profiles—C, U, and V—each serve different hand sizes and playing preferences, with C-shaped necks generally providing the most welcoming experience for beginners due to their balanced grip that facilitates smooth chord shifts. Players with larger hands often gravitate toward thicker U or V profiles, which offer substantial support for fingerstyle techniques. The fretboard radius, typically ranging from 9.5 to 16 inches, determines curvature and directly impacts string bending comfort, making proper selection vital for your long-term playing enjoyment and technique development.

Pickup Configuration Options

Three fundamental pickup types dominate the electric guitar landscape, and I’ve learned that understanding their sonic signatures will dramatically influence which instrument becomes your perfect match. Single-coil pickups deliver that crisp, bright tone that cuts through blues and rock mixes, though I’ll admit they can pick up interference that makes you question your amp setup. Humbuckers cancel noise through their dual-coil design, producing warmer, thicker tones perfect for heavier genres. P90s split the difference with their unique growl. Configuration matters equally—S-S-S layouts offer versatility, while H-H setups favor power and sustain. Five-way switches unleash pickup combinations that expand your tonal palette, letting you explore sounds between traditional positions for creative expression.

Bridge Type Selection

Your bridge selection fundamentally shapes how your guitar responds to every technique you throw at it, from gentle strumming to aggressive dive bombs that’ll make your neighbors question their life choices. I’ve found that fixed bridges deliver maximum sustain and tuning stability, making them ideal for heavy rhythm work and solos that demand unwavering pitch accuracy. Tremolo bridges, however, open up expressive possibilities through their spring-loaded mechanisms, though they require more maintenance and setup expertise. String-through designs enhance sustain by transferring vibrations directly through the body, while top-load bridges simplify string changes at the cost of some resonance. Adjustable saddles become essential for maintaining proper intonation across all frets, especially when experimenting with different string gauges or tunings.

Scale Length Impact

While bridge configuration affects your guitar’s mechanical behavior, scale length determines the fundamental relationship between your fingers and the fretboard, influencing everything from how easily you can wrap your hands around complex chords to whether those screaming bends feel effortless or like you’re wrestling with piano wire. I’ve found that guitars with shorter scale lengths, typically around 24.75 inches, offer reduced string tension that makes bending strings considerably easier, which explains why they’re favorites among blues and rock players. Conversely, longer scales near 25.5 inches provide tighter string tension that delivers enhanced sustain and clarity, making them ideal for metal and jazz applications where precision matters most, though the trade-off involves slightly more demanding finger work.

Amplifier Power Requirements

Nothing reveals a guitarist’s inexperience quite like watching them plug a beautiful electric guitar into an underpowered amplifier and wonder why their tone sounds like it’s being filtered through a tin can, which is why understanding amplifier power requirements becomes essential before you even consider which guitar to buy. I’ve learned that practice amps ranging from 5-20 watts handle bedroom sessions perfectly, while anything above 30 watts becomes necessary for band rehearsals and live performances. Higher wattage doesn’t just mean louder volume; it delivers superior tonal fidelity and dynamic range that truly showcases your guitar’s capabilities. Don’t overlook built-in features like headphone outputs and effects either, as they’ll enhance your practice sessions considerably while keeping the neighbors happy.

Included Accessories Value

One thousand dollars spent on a guitar that arrives with a practice amp, tuner, strap, picks, and carrying case delivers far more value than spending the same amount on just the instrument alone, which is why I always evaluate the complete package when recommending electric guitars to beginners. A 20-watt amplifier provides sufficient power for practicing across different environments, while included tuners eliminate setup delays that frustrate new players. I’ve noticed that kits featuring tremolo bars and spare strings create richer playing experiences without forcing additional purchases later. The carrying case particularly matters since beginners often transport guitars between lessons, friends’ houses, and practice spaces, making protection essential for preserving their investment and maintaining playability.

Budget Vs Quality

Beyond the value of complete packages, I’ve learned that finding the right balance between budget and quality determines whether beginners stick with guitar playing or abandon it within months. Entry-level electrics ranging from $100 to $300 offer decent quality without breaking the bank, though they typically feature lower-grade tuners and pickups that’ll need upgrading as skills develop. Higher-priced models justify their cost through superior materials and craftsmanship, delivering improved sound quality and durability that serious players appreciate. I’ve found that investing in a reliable instrument, even if it stretches your budget slightly, enhances the learning experience and encourages consistent practice. A frustrating guitar with poor intonation or tuning stability can derail progress faster than any technical challenge.

On a final note

After testing each guitar extensively, I’ve found that your choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget constraints, and playing aspirations. The Fender Squier models consistently deliver superior build quality and tone reproduction, while budget options like the Susen and GLARRY kits provide excellent value for absolute beginners. I’d recommend prioritizing pickup quality and neck comfort over flashy accessories, since these factors will greatly impact your long-term playing experience and musical development.