Ever since, the guitar community has been consumed with the Telecaster vs Stratocaster debate. It’s nearly impossible to say which guitar is better, as both sides have solid arguments.

However, we can zoom in on individual features and help you decide which one is better for you specifically. For example, the Strat vs. Tele sound quality, style, build quality, and price range are significant categories well worth exploring.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster: The Difference in Tone, Sound, Body and Electronics

* Excluding special models and custom shop instruments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Telecaster and Stratocaster

It’s not easy pitting two iconic guitars against each other and looking for a winner.

The task of categorizing them becomes even more difficult considering that both models are produced by sister companies – Fender and Squier.

Overall, Fender branded Strats and Teles cover the premium options, while the Squier brand covers the affordable yet still well-made guitars for everyone.

These categorizations and target marketing can confuse first-time buyers or guitar enthusiasts looking for their next investment.

That’s why, in order to fully understand the appeal of each style, the questions about differences are well worth examining.

What’s the Difference Between Telecaster and Stratocaster Guitars?

There’s no doubt that, for most of us, both the Stratocaster and Telecaster are beautiful, visually appealing guitars.

But the first impression starts with the body. Typically, both are made from alder, which provides excellent bite and tonal resonance.

Of course we know that other common body woods were utilized early on such as pine for the Telecaster, and swamp ash for Stratocaster bodies.

However, the shapes of the bodies are intentionally different. It’s easy to identify a Stratocaster by simply focusing on the upper part of the guitar’s body.

Additionally, when looking at the Strat and Tele tonewoods, the necks are both usually maple with either a maple or rosewood fingerboard option.

The differences being both visual and plying surface: maple is light in color with a clearcoat – in other words you’re playing on a painted surface, whereas rosewood is darker and unfinished.

Body Styles

A Stratocaster features a kind of a ‘horn’ or an ‘ear’ double cutaway with the deeper cut on the treble side allowing players easier access to higher registers.

The original Strats were also designed to be much more comfortable through the use of a tummy cut and well-rounded contours.

In comparison, the Telecaster is also easily recognizable with it’s single-cutaway and harder body contours.

Electronics

Additionally in the Strat vs. Tele neck tonewood comparison, both usually feature maple. But the difference is again stark when we compare the electronics.

The Telecaster has one tone, one volume control, and a 3-way switch, whereas the Stratocaster has one volume and two-tone controls and a 5-way switch.

Finally, the guitars have different headstocks, with Stratocaster featuring a notably larger design, which many believe gives the guitar the sustain and tone players know all about.

Which Is Better – Telecaster or Stratocaster?

The most accurate answer to this question is – it depends on who you ask and your own tastes. Many rock, jazz, and country legends would passionately argue for either of the two.

When it comes to Telecaster vs. Stratocaster sound, personal preference will play the deciding role. Hence, it’s essential to try the guitar before you buy it.

Furthermore, it’s also possible that some guitarists will adore how a Telecaster feels but will prefer the sound of Stratocaster, and vice versa.

Squier Affinity Stratocaster

If you’re a beginner, the Affinity Strat might be the best option. It has a thinner neck, and the double-cutaway improves the playability. In contrast, more experienced players will know exactly how to make the most of a guitar like Classic Vibe Telecaster.

Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster

Do Telecasters and Stratocasters Sound Different?

Seasoned guitarists will recognize the difference in sound between Telecaster and Stratocaster easily. But, generally speaking, Strats offer more tone flexibility.

Originally designed for utility and serviceability, the Telecaster is somewhat more simplistic in terms of sound.

However, it has that classic “Tele twang” which has made it a favorite among rock and blues guitarists for decades.

Designed as an evolution of the Fender’s electric guitar offerings, the Stratocaster offered more tonal flexibility with its 3 pickups and creative circuit controls.

It also features a familiar tremolo bridge which allows the player to create a distinctive vibrato effect by changing the string tension.

It’s worth noting that the Stratocaster’s original electronics design has essentially remained unchanged since the 60’s and still used in regular production.

While this is a testament to its longevity, the development of the Superstrat by Ibanez was the solution to the limitations felt by guitar players that wanted an instrument more suited to modern music trends.

Regardless, both the Telecaster and Stratocaster offer incredible sonic versatility, especially in the right hands.

In fact, there are many who would testify that both instruments are perfect and fully capable of covering virtually any musical style.

Which Is More Versatile – Strat or Tele?

Both the Strat and Tele are made from traditional electric guitar materials. Their tones, while individually distinct, are not drastically different between the two, especially when compared to a humbucker-driven Les Paul.

The overall versatility of a guitar is more apparent when we consider controls and the number of pickups on each instrument.

As mentioned, the Stratocaster has three pickups, whereas the Telecaster only has two. Naturally therefor, the Strat allows the more possibilities when it comes to range.

On the other hand, the Telecaster is widely used by pros across all music genres from John 5 to Brad Paisley – the trick is being skillful enough to pull what you want out of the Tele.

Should I Buy a Strat or a Tele?

As individual guitars, another one of the main reasons both models have such impressive longevity is that, despite their similarities, each has something the other doesn’t.

Stylistically, some players prefer the relatively punchy tones produced by the Stratocaster, others relish in the simplicity of the Telecaster.

With so many factory-offered model variations available, you can essentially pick the specifications that work for you.

And when you consider aftermarket parts for upgrades (such as pickups), there are endless options for players.

Whether you’re considering a Bullet vs. Affinity model, or a Telecaster vs. Stratocaster Classic Vibe, start with reliable research. Then the choice is totally up to you.

Is a Telecaster Good for Beginners?

If your motivation is simplicity in design, a Telecaster will certainly fit the bill. But this simplicity, compared to other models, comes at the cost of flexibility for a beginner guitarist.

Still, mastering it will prepare you well for any guitar you might pick up after that. Being a “workingman’s guitar” they’re low maintenance and don’t require expensive repairs.

The Strat on the other hand tends to offer the style and design that excites a novice player. They’re also considered to be more comfortable, sonically flexible and therefore, more suitable for beginners.

Whether you choose a Stratocaster or Telecaster, or a different guitar entirely, the Fender brand is well rounded in its ability to serve new guitar players through the help of Fender Play lessons and user-friendly guitar apps.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster: History, Style and Players

If you want front row seats to a fierce debate, simply ask the guitar community which is better, Strat or Tele?

Those who find the styles a little old-school or behind the times might find the argument a little strange. Both guitars come from essentially the same company, and have plenty of similarities.

Perhaps the Telecaster vs Stratocaster discussion is more about the musical genres they first represented in the historical sense?

Good question, let’s find out digging down a little further.

The History

The internet is full of extremely detailed information on the origins of the Fender brand and its impact on the evolution of the electric guitar.

Still, for the purposes of this article, it’s worth looking at the underpinnings as to how we got here – discussing the virtues and shortcomings of Telecaster vs Stratocaster.

Early Years

Leo Fender started working on the nascent Telecaster in 1949 in California. A year later, the Esquire was introduced to the music scene. It was the first mass-produced and commercially successful electric guitar.

Initially, the guitar was named Broadcaster, but it needed to be renamed due to a trademark conflict with Gretsch.

Oddly enough, to meet production demands the model stayed unnamed for a while and was simply labeled ‘No-caster.’

In 1951, the prefix ‘Tele’ was applied as a way to take advantage of the rise of television.

Indeed, the Telecaster has an impressive history, but what about Stratocaster?.

Fender thought of improving the Telecaster but ended up creating an entirely new model.

Finally, in 1954, the developing guitar was fitted with an extra pickup, more contours and thus, an entirely different vibrato equipped model called the Stratocaster was introduced.

Ease of Use

Whether you’re a first-time buyer, adding to your collection, or simply looking for your next instrument, it’s natural to wonder about the practical use of each instrument.

There are plenty of dedicated opinions on both sides of the discussion, but let’s look at a few facts.

First, the Telecaster is an overall simpler guitar. While this could be considered more restrictive or unforgiving to some, others admire this simplicity and welcome the challenge to gain diversity from it.

Which side of the Tele coin are you on?

Second, Strats are generally more comfortable, and more versatile sonically. But the vibrato (sometimes called the trem) system can be a tuning headache for some – especially beginners.

It’s important to note that early models of both instruments featured a 7 1/4″ fretboard radius which, while designed to be more comfortable in the hand, usually meant the strings had to be set a little higher to avoid “fretting out”.

In other words, a little less playable if you’re big on bending strings in the upper register.

Modern models of Teles and Strats feature a somewhat flatter 9 1/2″ or 10″ radius depending on the specific model and country of origin.

Musical Style

What if you’re a rock musician, which guitar is better suited for you?

According to many, the Telecaster is a guitar that can handle almost anything. As music has evolved, it’s often the go-to choice for country, blues, rock, and in more recent decades, heavy metal guitarists.

Historically speaking, the Stratocaster’s tones and design were a better fit for emerging rock and roll. Still, it was happily adopted by blues players, pop artists, R’n’B musicians and eventually, accepted into the heavy metal world as well.

Ultimately, whether one model is more prominent in a specific music style doesn’t matter – a skilled guitarist can make any tone with any guitar. As they say, “it’s all in the hands”.

Yet for many of us, our sense of which one is better can be directly linked to those we consider our guitar heroes.

You can even compare Les Paul vs. Strat or even Telecaster vs. Les Paul debates here. Depending on your influences, a Gibson or Epiphone Les Paul is another versatile option for guitarists across all musical styles.

Telecaster vs. Stratocaster Pros and Cons

Well Known Artists

Of course, finding famous guitar players in all genres that use both Telecaster and Stratocaster is not difficult.

The following list is just a fraction of the incredibly talented players you’ll find in the music industry.

Famous Telecaster Players

A few famous Telecaster players include:

Famous Stratocaster Players

Just a few notable Stratocaster players include:

As you can see, this brief list of recognizable players of Stratocasters and Telecasters is impressive – which proves our point that even though each model has a strong following, they’re both exceptional guitars.

The post Telecaster vs Stratocaster: Which Is The Better Fender Guitar? first appeared on GuitarNiche.

7 Best Electric Guitars for Kids Compared:

Guitar	Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Editor’s Pick! Squier Stratocaster Pack Three pickup configuration for tone simplicity		(4.9)	$$
#2 Best Budget Model Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X 22.5” scale length – ideal for small hands		(4.5)	$
#3 Best Premium Pack Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS pickup configuration for playing diversity		(4.6)	$$$
#4 Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Comes with a clip-on tuner		(3.9)	$$$
#5 Loog Pro Three-string simplicity		(3.6)	$$
#6 Ibanez Gio GRX70QA HSH pickup configuration for top genre versatility		(4.8)	$$
#7 Squier Bullet Mustang Incredibly resilient and stable		(4.1)	$$

We hope you find this article helpful, informative and unbiased. Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

There are more benefits to playing the guitar other than simply mastering an instrument. Some are social, while others revolve around the discipline of technical achievement.

This is what makes the guitar an excellent gift for your kid.

Of course, the price ballpark here isn’t thousands of dollars, meaning that you’re looking for the best electric guitar for kids, not adults.

However, bear in mind that most of the models on our list aren’t “kids’ guitars;” they’re simply guitars that are better suited for kids and beginners.

Top Electric Guitars for Kids Reviewed

1. Squier Stratocaster Pack

A classic-looking Stratocaster beginner’s pack from Squier.

A Traditional Stratocaster Pack

The typical Fender-built Stratocaster guitar has a SSS (three single coil) pickup configuration, which is fantastic for getting funky tones.

This Stratocaster Pack from Squier replicates its parent Fender guitar’s famous look, feel, and tone.

An affordable package that includes a kid’s electric guitar and amp, a gig bag, cable, picks, and some basic tools you need for this guitar’s setup.

Highlights

The Fender Frontman 10G amp that’s included here offers a range of brilliant crunch tones.

There’s a quick button that toggles between clean and crunch that allows your kid to adjust the gain level.

This is a fantastic for letting your child learn about the dynamics of electric guitar playing.

The guitar comes equipped with the typical tremolo bridge that will introduce your kid to the dynamic world of the whammy bar.

Squier Stratocaster Pack Features

• Lightweight body made of poplar is perfect for kids, plus it brings out a superb tone
• Custom-voiced overdrive from the Fender 10G amp
• Synchronized Tremolo bridge for whammy style of playing
• Included strap, picks, gig bag, cable, and setup tools
• Maple neck and rosewood fretboard for tonal stability

A Variety of Features at a Low Price

For a remarkably low price, you get a cool-looking beginner’s Squier Stratocaster, a solid amp, and various other features.

The SSS pickup configuration allows your kid to get introduced to the world of electric guitar gradually.

This is a truly classic beginner guitar package that offers a decent starter instrument with various simple tonal properties.

No Tuner

A clip-on tuner would be a nice addition to the package. It’s important that kids learn about guitar tuning from the get-go.

Fortunately, there are various smartphone tuner apps available out there.

Squier Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Squier Stratocaster Packs from Fender >>

2. Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X

A serious-looking rock/metal guitar for kids from Jackson.

A Future Metalhead’s Ax

Jackson is a popular name, especially in heavier music. And the JS1X is as cheap as a Jackson model gets.

Although this guitar is aimed at the young future metalheads, don’t be surprised if you end up liking it yourself.

The default color of this model is Gloss Black, but Bright Blue, Neon Orange, and Ferrari Red are options that may appeal more to your kids.

Potent Humbuckers and No Whammy

You can use this guitar for various genres, but it’s primarily aimed at heavier music styles.

The two high-output Jackson humbucker pickups work wonders for heavily distorted sounds.

It comes with a fixed bridge, so your kid won’t be able to do any whammy bar tricks that compromise tuning – simplicity is definitely desired here.

Play this guitar through a decent amp, and you’ll be surprised at how good it sounds.

Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Features

• Poplar body with a maple top for tonal balance
• 5” scale is ideal for small hands
• Fixed bridge for tuning stability and overall setup simplicity
• Four color options to appeal to everyone’s taste
• Graphite reinforcement truss rods for even more stability

Small Hands Love It

Normally, Jackson guitars feature a 25.5” scale used on many instruments such as Fender Guitars.

Nevertheless, a regular scale length might not be ideal for the young ones. The JS1X has a 22.5” scale, which is just perfect for small hands.

This shorter scale length makes the strings a little more flexible and easier on fresh fingers.

Furthermore, we’re talking about a relatively cheap, straightforward guitar that’s more than decent enough for talent shows and similar children’s performances.

Large Hands Do Not Love It

As time passes, your kid’s going to grow past the unusually short 22.5” scale. This model will last them a few years, but they’ll probably grow out of it. Fortunately, the price is perfectly fitting.

Jackson Dinky Minion in Review

3. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

Another Squier Stratocaster offering – but with a lot more oomph!

Similar to the previous Strat Pack, this is a quick-start guitar beginner’s pack from Fender’s daughter company, Squier.

Unpack, Plug In, and Play

The familiar Stratocaster look is known far and wide across the world. Many of the greats adore this model.

The Affinity Series Stratocaster is a great choice with a range of diversity. Inside the package, you get a strap, cable, gig bag, picks, and the Fender Frontman 15G amp.

In other words, your kid gets everything they need to get started right away.

Comfort and Diversity

Comfort is hugely important when it comes to beginner guitars. We’re talking about a complex and a fairly hard instrument to play here.

After all, making it easy for your kid to get started with it is the right way to go.

Thanks to the crisp maple neck and the fretboard made out of laurel hardwood, the player gets a ton of smoothness and ease of playing.

Diversity is another cool thing about the Affinity Series. With the HSS (humbucker, single, single) pickup configuration, you get to rock out with heavier music.

The super versatile pickup combination also lets you have fun with jazz, funk, and any other style you, or should we say, your kid, prefers.

Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Features

• Poplar body brings rock-solid tone to the table
• HSS pickup configuration for maximum playing diversity
• 5-way blade selector for tone shaping variety
• A bunch of features inside the package to get you started
• Vintage-style tremolo

Undeniable Comfort

Expect unexpected comfort from this model. In fact, you might feel sort of jealous that you didn’t get the chance to own this guitar as a kid yourself.

With most guitar purchases, you get a guitar, and then you have to go out of your way and find various other features necessary to get your kid started.

With the Affinity Series, you get everything you need, including an upgrade, in a single package.

Pricey

Although the price point is low compared to more professional-level guitars, the Affinity Series is the most expensive option.

Nevertheless, when put against other products on this list. It does bring a lot of quality to the table.

Affinity Strat Pack in Review

View the Latest Affinty Series Models >>

4. Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack

Beginner’s pack from Gibson’s daughter company, Epiphone.

The Good Old Les Paul

Back in the day, there were two claimants to the throne of the best guitar in the world: Les Paul and Stratocaster.

The Les Paul model remains very recognizable. This from Epiphone also comes with a 10-watt amp, gig bag, cable, strap, picks, and a clip-on tuner.

A Simple Tuner Means a Lot

Unlike strat-style guitars, Les Pauls are more about that fat, rock/metal sound. This is why this Epiphone features two humbuckers in its pickup configuration.

The neck build is fairly standard – maple with a rosewood fretboard. This gives it a solid, balanced tone.

Also available in a Vintage Sunburst finish, the guitar itself is surprisingly good for the price, it’s also about all the additional things you get inside the package.

It may not seem like much, but the included clip-on tuner is incredibly useful for your kid’s ear development.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack Features

• Every piece of equipment your kid needs to start playing immediately
• 10-watt amp with clean and crunch settings
• Solidbody build – among the most popular design options
• Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
• One volume knob, one tone knob, and a 3-position switch – simplicity is king

HH Simplicity

If your kid is into rock-style music, the double humbucker setup is the best pickup configuration for them. This configuration is very straightforward.

The same goes for the included 10-watt amp. You get two channels – clean and crunch – and some basic amp options. Nothing too complicated.

Although it’s not the most affordable kids beginner electric guitar option, it offers everything you need to get started.

Your Kid Might Not Be Into Rock

If your kid’s into heavier music, this is a good place to start. But it can turn out to be less than ideal for a kids’ first guitar.

Epiphone Les Paul Pack in Review

5. Loog Pro

A real beginner’s three-string guitar from Loog, specifically aimed at kids.

A Kid’s Guitar That’s Not a Toy

You can always get a standard guitar and have your kid learn how to play it. But Loog is a manufacturer that’s specifically oriented toward youngsters.

To avoid any off-putting string confusion, this model has only three strings.

The idea here was to make a kid’s guitar that isn’t a toy. Although the string spacing is smaller and the neck is thinner, the feel of it is very much like on a real grown-up guitar.

Simplicity is King

The body here is made out of solid wood, and the maple neck brings out the classic trebly quality.

Control-wise, things are very straightforward – a single volume knob (no tone knob), a single-coil pickup, and an input jack. Simplicity is key when it comes to an absolute newbie guitar.

Loog Pro Features

• Lightweight, stable basswood body for tuning stability and solid resonance
• Low string action for ease of playing while learning
• Three real guitar strings to keep things simple but replicate the feel of a real guitar
• Fantastic sound and excellent intonation from the single-coil pickup
• Maple neck and fretboard for crispy spunkiness

Arguably the Best Kid’s Beginner Solution

Simply put, there isn’t a better way to get used to the feel of a guitar than playing a real guitar made for kids’ hands.

The bridge system is adjustable, which is fantastic for ideal comfort.

This instrument’s price is also appealing, especially when you consider the fact that a regular beginner’s guitar will set you back about the same.

Only Three Strings

Although the three strings feel and work the same as on a regular guitar, we’re still talking about three strings.

Some kids may find the transition from three to the traditional six strings a bit confusing.

Loog Pro in Review

6. Ibanez Gio GRX70QA

An affordable and versatile shredder-style guitar from Ibanez’s Gio line.

Overview

Ibanez’s Gio is a well-known affordable line of electric guitars. The GRX70QA is among the cheaper Gio options, which makes it ideal for kids.

This guitar is far from top-notch, but offers a ton of versatility. Plus, the finish looks simply fantastic.

Highlights

The HSH (humbucker-single-humbucker) pickup configuration makes this Ibanez very versatile.

You can get a very heavy lead tone from the bridge pickup, but the warmth of the neck humbucker for clean tones is not to be understated.

If you like the tonal properties of a single pickup, there is one available in the middle position.

Like most Ibanez guitars, this one puts an emphasis on the neck. It’s very comfortable, and the hand glides across it – amazing playability for the price.

Ibanez Gio GRX70QA Features

• Basswood body for tuning stability and light weight
• Maple neck for crisp, trebly tones
• Purpleheart fretboard works perfectly with the maple neck
• Solid FAT 6 tremolo bridge with a whammy bar
• 3 Powersound pickups

A Breathtakingly Good-Looking Beginner’s Guitar

The Gio GRX70QA from Ibanez definitely doesn’t look like a kids’ model. This is because it wasn’t primarily intended for youths.

Electric guitar practice starts with a comfortable guitar, and the Ibanez Gio GRX70QA is remarkably playable for its price.

Is it only for beginners? No. Is it a recommended electric guitar for beginners? Absolutely. And don’t forget its breathtaking looks.

Pickups Not Perfect

For a beginner, the pickups sound just fine. But given that the build quality of this model is more than decent, you may end up desiring a better pickup set.

The thing is, a set of solid pickups is likely to cost more than the original price of the guitar.

Ibanez Gio in Review

7. Squier Bullet Mustang HH

A cheap HH-configuration guitar from Squier.

An Indie Kid’s Guitar

It’s difficult to imagine the indie, underground, and alternative scenes without the popular Mustang guitar shape.

Well, here it is – a beginner’s Squier guitar with the popular Mustang shape and feel.

Yes, you get only two humbucker pickups, but this only means straightforward playing simplicity.

Your kid will rock out with the bridge pickup and enjoy the deep, resonant tones of the neck humbucker on clean settings.

Solid Workhorse

At 24 inches of scale length, this guitar’s neck is compact and a perfect fit for smaller kids’ hands.

Thanks to the dual humbucker configuration, expect a midrange-oriented tone. This guitar is quite the workhorse – a resilient and stable model.

Considering that kids aren’t exactly careful with their things, this means a lot.

Squier Bullet Mustang HH Features

• This is a no-nonsense, straightforward workhorse guitar
• Lightweight basswood body offers setup stability
• Smaller hands will greatly benefit from the 24” scale length
• Crunchy, hot, rock tone
• Soft laurel fretboard simply feels great

Brilliant Resilience

Kids aren’t careful. They will break things. This affordable guitar is very tough and, although dents and scratches may occur, the playing quality is unlikely to be affected by wear and tear.

The Squire Bullet Mustang is a perfect model for heavier tones. The 24” scale length is a true gift for smaller hands.

There are shorter-scale guitars on this list, but the 24” will prepare your kid for moving on to longer scales down the line.

Too Sturdy?

The sturdy build does come at a price. This guitar might feel a bit too stiff for some. This boils down to personal preference, though.

Squier Bullet Mustang in Review

Best First Electric Guitar For Kids Buyer’s Guide

The guitars that you’ll find on this list all make for great choices for the young ones.

Whether you’re a guitar player yourself or not, you should know what to look for when buying a guitar for your kid. They’ll undoubtedly have no idea where to start themselves.

With this in mind, here’s a buyer’s guide that will help you better understand the world of kids’ guitar playing.

What is the Best Age to Start Learning Guitar?

Ask any guitar player about the perfect age to get into guitar playing, and they’ll say “as soon as possible.”

Unlike the piano, for example, guitar playing does involve brute force, to an extent (fretting notes is not easy for beginners).

Buy your kid a guitar too soon, and they might end up being put off by this struggle.

Many top-of-the-line guitar players first picked up their instrument of choice in their teenage years. So, the age of 13 is optimal. It all boils down to knowing your kid, though.

Some will benefit from starting out as early as age seven, while others won’t pick up the instrument until they’re 17.

In any case, pushing your kid into guitar playing is not the way to go. Even if you get them a guitar early on, they might end up picking it up later in life.

What Guitar Should I Buy for a Beginner Child?

If you are a guitar player yourself, you probably have a small old amp lying around somewhere.

In this case, you don’t need to get them a beginner guitar package with an included amp and other guitar essentials.

If you don’t have any guitar-related equipment at home though, focus on getting them the best electric guitar starter kit that you think will fit them.

Get the best electric guitar starter kit that fits them, and your budget.

You can get them a guitar separately and buy them a cheap amp, but this will set you back quite a bit more.

The starter kits are usually the best idea; the included equipment is more than decent enough for young beginners.

Are Electric Guitars Worth It?

We tend to underestimate the importance of having a hobby. What’s great about music is that it can grow into a passion, leading to a profession that your child will love and cherish.

However, even if it forever remains a hobby, the value that playing the electric guitar brings to the table is immense.

In fact, even if they completely drop the instrument after a few years, the guitar can do wonders for your child’s motor development.

As opposed to acoustic guitars, electric guitars require much less brute force for playing. Starting with one of the mentioned is usually preferable to getting an acoustic model.

Therefor, yes, buying an electric guitar for your kid is definitely worth it, especially considering that the outlined models are very cheap.

How Big is a Junior Guitar?

Junior guitars tend to be a quarter, a half, or three quarters of the regular guitar size.

Most guitars on this list aren’t considered “junior” guitars, although some feature shorter scale lengths.

This is because we think that starting out with a normal-sized guitar is generally preferable – let your kid grow into it instead of out of it.

We have included the Loog Pro model, which is much more compact than the other models on the list and features three strings.

If you want your kid to start out with a non-adult model, why not introduce them to fewer strings as well, to avoid confusion.

Still, we think that your kid will have an easier time adjusting to the world of guitars if they have an instrument that has realistic proportions.

Can You Make a Cheap Electric Guitar Sound Good?

Go ahead and ask any guitarist out there if this is possible. In all likelihood, they will answer with a “yes.”

While acoustic guitars produce their sound, well, acoustically, electric guitars rely on electronics to reproduce sound.

Naturally, the wood quality, the overall build, the pickups, and other components each have a role here.

Even the cheapest electric guitar can sound good with a good setup, and some practice.

However, as long as you have a good amp, you can make pretty much any guitar sound at least decent.

In fact, learning how to set the tone on a cheap guitar will help develop your ear for this.

Additionally, not only can you make a cheap guitar sound good, but it’s even preferable to starting off with an expensive model. For your kids, $300 is the recommended ceiling.

How Much Does a Good Quality Electric Guitar Cost?

Most guitarists would answer, “depends.” And it truly does depend on many factors.

But, as a rule of thumb, the $1,000 ballpark is a reasonably certain range for a high quality electric guitar. With most products, you’re looking for quality.

Do not look at quality guitars when browsing the models for your kid. We don’t just say this for the sake of your budget, but for your kid’s guitar learning process, as explained above.

In reality, you can find production model and boutique guitars that go as far up as $3,000 or much more.

And then, you’ll see a famous musician rocking a $600 workhorse on the stage. There is absolutely no need to go overboard with your kid’s first model.

What is the Best Electric Guitar for Beginners?

The best electric guitar for a beginner is the one they like to observe while it’s played.

In truth, there is no way to tell whether your kid will find a perfect match on their own.

Taking them to the guitar store and having an employee play each model for your kid is the best way to have them choose their first instrument.

See what they like the most – unless you really want them to go with a junior-style guitar. In that case, we recommend the above-mentioned Loog Pro.

Who Wins Top Seat For The Best Electric Guitar For Kids?

Although we’ve reviewed many quality guitars, we’re going to have to go with a guitar-amp-essentials pack here.

The Squier Stratocaster Pack offers the most comprehensive set of extra features. The triple pickup combo is perfect for a beginner, and the included amp will help your kid learn how to dial in their tone.

With the Squier Stratocaster Pack, your kid has a chance to start learning electric guitar basics, from its playing aspects to the technicalities and tone.

This is why we think that the Squier Stratocaster Pack is the best electric guitar for kids.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Stratocaster Pack!

What Do Squier Stratocaster Pack Owners Think? >>

The post Best Electric Guitar for Kids (7 Exceptional Instruments) first appeared on GuitarNiche.

Fender and Squier: How Do Their Guitars Differ?

🎸 Fender, and its sub-brand Squier, currently rank as the top-selling guitars in the world.

In fact, Fender reported the highest number of sales ever in just 9 months in 2020.

However, while the two have one big thing in common, massive sales numbers, many people are more interested in their differences.

If you’ve been wondering about Squier vs Fender, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s dig into some comparisons and distinctions to help you learn about two of the most legendary guitar brands out there.

FAQs & Common Questions

With Fender and Squier offering so many of the same products, it is natural to have questions about the differences between the two. Maybe you want to know about how the spec sheet difference impacts price?

Or what’s the difference between the Strat vs Tele within both brands? Let’s jump into some frequently asked questions with detailed answers below.

Is Squier As Good As Fender?

The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as some might make you seem. With obvious price differences, most associate Fender’s premium price tag and reputation as the superior guitar and bass line.

The same question could also be asked of Epiphone and Gibson. In contrast, Epiphone is still very much thought of as an affordable brand, while Gibson, compared to Fender, has seemed to price itself out of the reach of many players into what is perceived as elitist territory.

Still, Squier has upped its game to the point where some of the high end Squier guitars are just as studio and stage ready, if not more, than some low end Fender products. At the end of the day, it will all come down to what you’re looking for in a guitar.

There are multiple factors that influence a player’s choice of instrument. Everything from historical identity, rarity, or price point, down to a simple choice of color.

If you want a truly robust instrument, a perfectly set up guitar that’s been gone over with a fine tooth comb, Fender products are better.

On the other hand, if you want a perfectly functioning, sweet sounding guitar that won’t break the bank, Squier may actually be better.

What’s The Difference Between A Squier And A Fender?

The two biggest differences between the two brands are the price points and countries of origin. Squier is meant to be the affordable line of Fender guitars, meaning you can get a Tele, Strat, or P-Bass that is made overseas to cut costs.

Additionally, it comes down to the details that go into making a better instrument. Fender branded instruments will have better quality woods, hardware, electronics, and more man-hour time put into finishing processes.

When you first pick up a guitar, there is no mistaking an instrument that’s had the extra time put into the small things that elevate it – the human touch. But it has to be paid for!

Which Squier Is The Best?

Just like Fender, Squier’s best guitar comes down to a Strat vs Tele faceoff. Squier’s highest quality line is the Classic Vibe series, which recreates popular historical Fender models for less than $500.

For the money, the Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Telecaster is widely considered one of the best affordable guitars on the market, not just the best Squier.

Check out this side by side demo of a Tele vs Strat from the ‘50s Classic Vibe Series to decide for yourself.

Additional awesome Squier guitars include:

• Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster
• Squier Contemporary Telecaster
• Squier Affinity Jazzmaster
• Squier Paranormal Cyclone

Are Squier Bullet Strats Any Good?

Plain and simple, YES! Squier Bullet Strats are an incredibly affordable option for beginners or DIY guitar modders. They even come as part of a beginner package with accessories like an amplifier, strap, and guitar cable.

Why Are Squier Guitars Bad?

Generally speaking, Squier guitars are not bad at all. In fact, they are often underrated because they lack name brand pickups or hardware.

Their overseas origins also tend to lead to assumptions about the quality. Squiers are not perfect guitars, but Squier guitars are by no means bad and offer supreme value for the money.

Is Epiphone Better Than Squier?

Another tough question, especially because Epiphone and Squier make such different products despite the similar price point.

Ultimately, no Epiphone is not better than Squier, especially when you consider Squier and Fender have sold more guitars than any other company from 2015-2020.

But Squier makes affordable Fender designs, so if you are looking for a Strat, Tele, or Jaguar Squier is a better bet than Epiphone!

Breaking Down Fender Vs Squier: What We Looked For

We’re not here to tell you which brand is superior to the other. In fact, we want to shed light on how wonderful all these products are depending on your needs.

Whether you are considering a Signature model Jazzmaster, Mexican vs American Strat, or are interested in a Classic Vibe Squier, there is a guitar for everyone here. Here are a few key differences to consider.

Price Difference

It’s not uncommon for the price of a guitar to be the main driving force behind a purchase. Everyone wants to get the most guitar for the money.

However, sometimes cost doesn’t equate to overall quality, so it is important to understand why the prices are different.

Fender

Fender guitars cost more because of where they are produced. Paying the factory workers in the US and Mexican factories simply costs more than it does overseas in Asian countries.

While there is certainly a price difference attributed to the upgraded features and parts in Fender guitars, most of the price difference comes from the labor associated with building guitars in North America.

Squier

As stated above, it is just so much more affordable to mass produce guitars overseas. Squier guitars also feature overseas made copies of things like Fender pickups, tuners, and bridges which cost less to produce separate from the already cheap assembly.

Sound Quality 

The way an individual guitar sounds is often subjective, with each musical genre and player having their own definition. Squier vs Fender guitars certainly sound different, even if both have generally impressive sound quality.

Other than the natural qualities of the tonewoods and quality of the hardware, the most important sonic factor is the pickups. They’re the engine behind the sound.

Moreover, one of the first places a guitar manufacturer will cut costs is in the electronics. Whether it’s a Squier or a Fender, the quality of the electronics can make or break your sound.

Fender

Fender is known for pioneering so many iconic electric guitar sounds. When comparing Strat vs Tele pickups, Fender has a strong reputation for reproducing their signature tones in every guitar, be it Mexican or Fender. The sound quality is undoubtedly high.

Squier

Squier’s whole mission is really to clone those Fender sounds and tones and bring them in a more accessible package. But can you cut production costs and still maintain an authentic vintage-stlye tones?

They certainly succeed in doing that, especially with the Squier Classic Vibe series. In our humble opinion, they sound eerily similar to original Fender guitars. So much so that it hardly warrants replacing the pickups.

Even when you put the Squier Bullet vs Affinity lines up against each other, the distinct Fender sound is there.

Build Quality

Overseas production quality has drastically increased in the past decade. This has been a net positive for consumers like you and me, who can get better products without having to dig deeper into our pockets.

Fender

Fender very well may be the industry leader in build quality. Even Mexican Fender products are known to last a lifetime.

And on the off chance they don’t, Fender’s modular guitar design makes it easy and affordable to swap parts in and out for upgrades or repairs. But if Fender is on the headstock, you can expect top notch build quality.

Squier

Squier is no slouch when it comes to build quality either, with drastic improvements from past decades. Many Squier guitars come out of the box ready to go, with smooth action and sweet pickups.

Quality control certainly lags behind Fender a bit, but really it should be on the dealer to make sure that you don’t get a lemon or beat up instrument.

Pros and Cons of Each Make

Fender Guitars

Squier Guitars

Which Brand Is Right For You?

Ultimately, Squiers are beloved by beginner players because they are an affordable way to learn guitar. Squier guitars even come with a free trial of Fender Play, their proprietary online guitar instruction program.

If you are a beginner or want to start learning guitar, Squier may be right for you.

Now, if you are a player who has progressed through lessons, upgrading to a Mexican or American Fender could be the right choice for you. The smoother playability and reliable tuning make Fenders a tad more stage or studio ready.

The post Fender vs Squier – Which One Is Better? first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

An Affordable Version of Leo Fender’s First Guitar, How Does the Affinity Tele Stack Up?

The Squier Affinity Telecaster at a glance:

Squier Affinity Telecaster Guitar

Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Overview

Squier’s take on Fender’s classic Telecaster design is one of the most popular and highly rated sub-$200 electric guitars. Used through many genres such as blues, rockabilly, classic rock, and country, you can’t go wrong with a Tele.

These guitars are adored by both beginners and pros for their ability to cheaply recreate that classic Fender Telecaster sound.

One of the Most Versatile and Iconic Guitars of All Time

Much like Squier’s SA-150 Acoustic guitar, the Affinity Telecaster is all about bringing Fender’s premium sound to a more accessible price point. The Telecaster is an iconic electric guitar used by giants such as Jimmy Page, Prince, and Chrissie Hynde.

Famous for its sparkling clean tones and warm overdriven sounds, the Tele gets much of its sound from the brass plate holding the bridge pickup. Equally suited for beginners and pros, Squier’s Affinity Telecaster will not disappoint Fender fans.

Who is the Squier Affinity Series Telecaster for?

Coming in just below $200, most would assume that the Squier Affinity Series Telecaster is a beginner level instrument. While the guitar is certainly a superb option for those looking for their first electric, it shouldn’t be discounted by veterans.

The Affinity Series blends classic Fender tone with comfortable, simplified features. The two single coil pickups can be easily controlled by a 3-way selector switch and a volume and tone pot.

This simple two knob set up certainly makes controlling your tone far easier on beginners right out of the box. The versatility of the guitar also makes it a top choice for players of all levels. You can go from sparkling clean country and pop sounds to overdriven rock riffs in no time, without ever being boxed in.

What Can You Expect In The Box?

Check Squier Affinity Telecaster Availability Here! >>

The Squier Affinity Series Telecaster is available in a number of packages from different vendors. You can purchase the guitar by itself, or as part of a beginner’s pack where accessories come included.

With the package deal comes nice extras like guitar picks, a strap, clip-on tuner, and gig bag. All of these accessories can greatly help new guitarists keep their guitar in top shape when practicing or taking it out of the house.

It is worth noting that getting one of these packages will add a few extra dollars, taking the guitar north of $200 total.

Squier Affinity Telecaster Features

The Squier Affinity Telecaster has quite a few distinct, quality features. The two single coil pickups provide a diverse palette of sounds. Warmer and bassier tones coming from the neck, and brighter, “spank” from the bridge.

The 3-way selector switch lets you use each independently, or both in parallel, providing great sonic options. The Alder body is lightweight and comfortable to play sitting down or standing up. The neck is made of Maple, with either Maple or Indian Laurel fretboards available.

21 frets and dot inlays adorn the C-shaped neck, with the comfortable horn carve providing easy access to higher frets. The top loaded Telecaster bridge is paired with chrome tuners that provide great tuning stability, especially at this price point.

Plus, the bridge has six individual saddles for each string, making intonation adjustments easy for each string. While the pickups sound great, beginners should be warned that single coil pickups are susceptible to electrical interference.

This means that when played through an amplifier, there may be some hum or buzz produced by the guitar.

Tons of Color Options

The Affinity Tele is also available in a virtual rainbow of colorful finishes:

Squier by Fender Affinity Series Telecaster...

Squier by Fender Affinity Telecaster Beginner...

Squier by Fender Affinity Telecaster Electric...

Squier by Fender Affinity Series Telecaster...

See all available Affinity Tele finishes here! >>

Affinity Highlights

• Great, reliable tuning stability
• Diverse tones from all 3 pickup configurations
• Classic recreation of iconic Telecaster
• Comfortable, C-shaped neck for beginners
• Can come with needed accessories

Pros and Cons

Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Guitar Review

Are Squier Affinity Telecaster Owners Happy? >>

See, and Hear It in Action

Squier’s Affinity Telecaster should be ready right out of the box, especially if you get it as part of a beginner pack! Widely regarded as one of the best cheap guitars ever made, check out this great demo of all the Affinity Tele can do for you!

Other Affordable Electrics to Try

There has never been as many great cheap guitars for young players as there is right now. While it is easier than ever to find great guitars under $200, it also is harder to sift through the many great options.

If you’re looking for another classic Fender design, Squier’s Affinity Series Stratocaster might be for you. Just like the Tele here, the Affinity Strat is tried and true recreation of the three pickup Stratocaster, arguably the most iconic electric guitar of all time.

At an equally affordable price tag, you’ll find even more tonal diversity in the Stratocaster. Plus, it’s also sold as part of great beginner packages by many common retailers, making it student friendly.

Squier by Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster...

Epiphone Les Paul-100, Heritage Cherryburst

Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA - Transparent Black...

Sick of hearing about Fender and Gibson? Ibanez has just the guitar for you! Check out their GRX70, a “super-Strat”-styled guitar that mixes modern features with stunning finish options.

For players who want to pursue more technical styles of music such as fusion, metal, or Steve Vai-inspired madness, look no further. The GRX70 adds a unique HSH pickup diagram and dive-bomb ready tremolo system to a sub-$200 shredding machine.

Final Thoughts: Is the Squier Affinity Telecaster Worth Buying?

The Squier Affinity Series Telecaster has got to be one of the best values on the market. For players inspired by vintage sounds and styles, the Affinity Telecaster is one of the best affordable options.

Capable of taking you from The Rolling Stones to Rage Against The Machine, the Affinity Tele is packed with great features. The comfortable neck, tuning stability, and broad number of finish options more than compensates for any flaws.

Even though the fret edges may be a bit rough and the pickups can be noisey, you won’t find many better guitars for under $200. And for pros, this is a superb guitar to purchase and customize or modify to your preferred specs!

What are Affinity Telecaster Customers Saying? >>

The post Squier Affinity Series Telecaster Review [Electric Guitar by Fender] first appeared on GuitarNiche.

We certainly hope you benefit from the information we provide in this article! Just so you know, we may receive compensation if you use the links on this page. If you do, thank you so much!

Find the Best Electric Guitar to Start With!

Great Beginner Electric Guitars at a Glance:

Rank	Feature Image	Rating	Relative Price
#1 Best Beginner Guitar Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack		(4.7)	$$$
#2 Best Budget Package LyxPro Electric Guitar Complete Beginner Starter kit		(4.4)	$$
#3 Best for Hard Rock Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package		(4.4)	$$$
#4 Best Vintage Starter Pack Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar Starter Package		(3.9)	$$
#5 Best Standalone Instrument Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar		(4.4)	$$$

Purchasing your very first electric guitar, either for yourself or for your child, can be very exciting. It can also get a little confusing if you’re not familiar with some of the terminologies, or simply don’t know what to look for.

Luckily for you, seeking out the best electric guitar for beginners has resulted in a few good choices available in today’s market, coming in a variety of prices to fit various budgets.

In Review: The Top 5 Electric Guitars for Beginners

1. Overall Best Beginner Guitar: Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack

Best balance of build quality, playability, sound versatility and reputation.

AFFINITY SERIES STRATOCASTER HSS PACK (371824009)

You don’t necessarily have to spend a lot of money to have the look and feel of a Fender Stratocaster. In fact, you can get a low-end version of this guitar, and it is made by Fender, so you know it is going to be a quality instrument, even if it is inexpensive.

The Fender Squier was introduced to the world in 1982, and is mainly produced overseas, at factories that are mainly located in China and other parts of Asia. They are able to manufacture these guitars with cost-efficient materials, and bring the savings to you.

This is a bundle package, so not only do you get the Squier Affinity guitar, you also get everything needed, including virtual lessons, to jump right in and start playing. All the student needs to do is tune it up and it is ready to play, right out of the box.

Read What Squier Starter Strat Pack Customers are Saying >>

Key Features

• This bundle package comes with the Squier electric guitar, and all of the necessary accessories. The bundle includes the guitar, a 15G practice amp, instrument cable, shoulder strap, and extra guitar picks
• This guitar has a lightweight body making it a great choice. It has one humbucking pickup and two single-coil pickups, which provide a broad range of sounds plus that classic Stratocaster tone
• The Squier Affinity Stratocaster has a master volume control and a master tone control, with chrome finish hardware. The tuning machines are standard die-cast, and there is a three-ply, white pick guard

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Pack Review

What Do Squier Affinity Strat Owners Think? >>

Summary

Most kids would love to start out on a real Strat, but this is just way too much money to spend on a beginner. The Squier Affinity Strat Starter Pack is the ideal compromise, because you still get the Fender quality, and the Strat style, without the regular Strat price.

This bundle package is a great deal, with everything the student needs, and it is a guitar that they can learn and grow with.

2. Best Budget Package: LyxPro Electric Guitar with 20w Amp Package

Offers the most complete range of included accessories.

LyxPro 39 inch Electric Guitar Kit Bundle with 20w Amplifier, All Accessories, Digital Clip On Tuner, Six Strings, Two Picks, Tremolo Bar, Shoulder Strap, Case Bag Starter kit Full Size - Red

Let’s face it. One of the coolest guitars on the planet is the Fender Stratocaster, but who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a guitar for a kid who is just starting out, and might not even stay interested in playing?

Get them a great little guitar that looks just like a Strat, but comes in a bundle kit that costs less than $200? That guitar is the LyxPro electric guitar, and it comes in a bundle package with everything they need to open the box and start playing.

This is a full-size, 39-inch electric guitar that is ideal for both beginner and intermediate players, so it is a guitar that is going to grow with your young learner. It has a solid wood body, with a neck made from Canadian maple and a rosewood fretboard.

Check LyxPro Electric Guitar Customer Reviews >>

Key Features

• This guitar has S-S-S pickups, along with a one-way tremolo and a pickup switch. It also has separate volume and tone controls. All of the controls are laid out as they are on a Strat, so they are familiar and easy to reach and manipulate
• The bundle package includes the full-size, 39-inche electric LyxPro electric guitar, a 20-watt amplifier, a digital clip-on tuner, two picks, a set of extra strings, a shoulder strap, a tremolo bar, and a gig bag
• The 20-watt amp is great for beginners. It is just loud enough for them to be able to practice, and not so loud that it is going to drive everyone in the house crazy. It offers a quality sound, which is important for ear training

LyxPro Electric Guitar with 20w Amp Review

What Do LyxPro Customers Think? >>

Summary

It isn’t often that we find a guitar that we have no complaints about, especially one in this price range, but this is one of those rarities.

We like pretty much everything about this guitar. As far as the price goes, this bundle package is costlier than others we are looking at today, but when you consider the quality of the instrument and accessories, you really are getting a pretty great deal.

3. Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package

For heavier rock tones, this is the package for you.

Epiphone has been creating innovative guitar designs for the past century and they are well known for producing fine crafted instruments.

This Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Package is known for the great sound quality, which it produces due to the open-coil humbucker and the solid wood body. This produces a great quality of sound without buzz, whether you use it for clean tones or on overdrive.

It may be more expensive than the others listed here but it offers a better quality guitar with additional useful accessories that beginners will certainly use. It is the best electric guitar for beginners who are really picky with the sound quality that their guitar produces.

It is a less expensive alternative that is great for beginners to practice on before they upgrade into the more expensive Fender or Gibson guitars.

The complete package contains the guitar, an amp, a guitar cable, a tuner, picks, gig bag, and a clip-on tuner. It comes in various colors to suit your preference and it is also available in different game configurations for compatibility to your game console.

Click Here to Check Epiphone Les Paul Player Package Availability >>

Key Features

• The player package includes a Les Paul Special-II LTD guitar
• The guitar has two classic humbucker pickups
• The package includes a 10-watt amp, 10’ guitar cable, gig bag, guitar strap, picks, and clip-on tuner
• Solid wood guitar body and mahogany neck
• Fretboard is made from rosewood
• Right-handed guitar
• Has the Les Paul signature to easily identify it as a great quality guitar

Epiphone Les Paul Guitar Player Pack Review

Are Epiphone Customers Happy? >>

Summary

The Epiphone Les Paul certainly offers up strong tones and great playability backed by a top brand name manufacturer. For more information on the guitar itself, read our full review here.

4. Best Vintage Style Starter Package: Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar

Classic Gibson style priced for entry level beginners.

Maestro by Gibson Electric Guitar Starter Package, Vintage Sunburst

Everyone wants to play a Gibson or a Fender guitar, but many people think that they can’t have a quality guitar from either of these manufacturers without having to spend a ton of money. If this is what you’ve been thinking, it’s time to think again.

Both manufacturers offer some great quality, low-end guitars, including the Maestro by Gibson. This electric guitar comes with a starter package, so you have everything you need to start playing right away.

This is a cutaway guitar that’s similar in design to the early Les Paul body style Gibson guitars that are so sought-after. The classic design lets you play comfortably, both while sitting and standing, and it offers an ideal tone for anyone who wants to play rock and roll.

Read What Maestro Customers are Saying >>

Key Features

• The Maestro by Gibson has a Linden wood body, along with a solid maple neck and rosewood fingerboard with dot inlays, making it look as great as it sounds. You will love the classic sunburst pattern that is common in Gibson guitars
• This guitar has a 24.75-inch scale length. This means that there is a lot less tension on the strings, so you don’t have to press on the strings as hard as you would with other guitars. This is great for beginners who haven’t toughened up their fingertips yet
• The tailpiece on this guitar is a traditional, wrap-around design that allows you to enjoy extra sustain, and the precision tuners are die-cast, so the guitar is going to stay in tune longer than other cheap guitars

Maestro Electric Guitar Starter Pack Review

Do Maestro Customers Like the Guitar? >>

Summary

If you really want to play on a Gibson guitar, it is definitely within your reach with the Maestro. This starter package has everything you need to begin learning and playing right away, including a lesson DVD that will help you to get started.

You can buy this guitar for much less than it’s upper-priced counterparts, so you don’t have to spend a lot of money before you decide if you are going to continue learning and playing.

5. Best Standalone Beginner Guitar: Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar

If want to start with learning heavier modern tunes, this guitar is your best choice.

Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA - Transparent Black Sunburst

An affordable take on the many high performance models from the Ibanez company, the GRX70 is an aesthetically pleasing and fun to play guitar.

The Ibanez GRX70 is a guitar designed for beginners and veterans alike who prioritize playability and modern styling above vintage specs.

Known for its fast neck and versatile Humbucker-Single-Humbucker configuration, you can coax a lot of sounds from the GRX70.

Like most guitars in this price range, Ibanez does its best to provide a quality product at a more affordable price. Much like their prized and pricey Joe Satriani and Steve Vai signatures, the GRX70 is all about performance.

This guitar is definitely more to the shred or metal side of the guitar world, but is comfortable and versatile thanks to the fast neck. While the GRX70 isn’t perfect, it should inspire the next wave of lead guitarists and is a great value.

Click Here to Check Davison Guitars Availability >>

Key Features

• Very versatile HSH pickup configuration
• Sports a thin, fast modern neck
• Dive bomb-ready whammy bar
• Can come paired with practice amp
• Ultra affordable guitar for what it is
• Consistently great reviews

Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar Review

What Do Ibanez GRX70 Guitar Owners Think? >>

Summary

For a standalone beginner electric guitar, the Ibanez GRX70 represent a superior deal.

If you’re into the heavier side of guitar music, the neck and whammy bar are built for shredding, and the Powersound pickups provide a good bit of tonal versatility.

Having a comfortable neck is one of the most important features in a beginner guitar, and the GRX70 excels in that department.

For more info, read our complete Ibanez GRX70 Electric Guitar review.

Things to Keep in Mind When Buying a Beginner Electric Guitar

Considering the wide range of manufacturers, styles, and options available to those who want to start with a good electric guitar, the choices can be overwhelming and intimidating.

When shopping for the best option that ticks all the boxes for you personally, here are a few key points you should consider:

Budget

First, you should set a budget for the guitar you are purchasing. Just be careful about guitars that seem to be overly cheap. The market is flooded with inferior instruments that we classify as GSOs – Guitar Shaped Objects.

They may not be of the good quality and you can end up wasting your money with them. It is important to also see the quality of the guitar in relation to the price.

Brand

Another thing to consider is the brand. This can help determine whether a guitar is a great choice or not. Most brands that produce professional grade guitar models for performers will also have sub-brands that are targeted towards the entry level beginners.

For example; Gibson use the Epiphone name, Fender uses the Squier name and so on for the lower cost versions of their best guitar designs.

Style

It is also important to consider how you are going to use the guitar. Are you just purchasing a guitar for a game or do you want to really play music with it? You should also think about the certain genre that you are going to play and match your guitar with it.

Our Top 3 Choices for Beginner Electric Guitars:

Best Beginner Electric

AFFINITY SERIES STRATOCASTER HSS PACK (371824009)

Best Budget Package

LyxPro 39 inch Electric Guitar Kit Bundle with 20w...

Best Hard Rock Guitar

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Ebony

Final Verdict on Choosing the Best Electric Guitar For Beginners

Of all the five guitar sets reviewed here, our favourite pick is the Squier Affinity Starter Strat Pack is the best electric guitar for beginners who are looking for a longer lasting guitar made by a reputable manufacturer.

Although it may be a little bit more expensive than some of the others, the quality is that much better.

It also comes with a great set of accessories that beginners will find useful and essential. It’s a great step in purchasing a guitar and learning how to play it. With a good quality brand, you can also expect a good quality product.

EDITOR’S PICK

Squier Affinity Stratocaster Beginner Pack

What Do Squier Affinity Strat Pack Owners Think? >>

The post Best Electric Guitar For Beginners (How To Start Rocking Right) first appeared on GuitarNiche.