Contents
- The Top 10
- Top 10 Electric Guitars Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best Design
- 3. Best Heavy-Duty
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best Lightweight
- 7. Best Compact
- 8. Best for Beginners
- 9. Best for Small Spaces
- 10. Best Budget
- Electric Guitars Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- How to Choose Electric Guitars
- What to look for
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best beginner electric guitar can be tough. The DONNER DST-80 is our top pick. Its complete beginner’s package includes everything you need: a guitar, amp, gig bag, and more. If you want something more affordable, the Squier by Fender Debut Series Stratocaster is a great choice. You will sacrifice some accessories but still get a solid guitar.
Most buyers face a choice between all-in-one kits and standalone guitars. The DONNER DST-80 offers a full kit, while the Squier is a classic guitar. The rest of this page explores more options, helping you make an informed choice.
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The Top 10
Top 10 Electric Guitars Reviewed in Detail
Below, we review several electric guitars for beginners. Each option has unique features to help you learn.
1. Editor’s Choice
DONNER DST-80 39” Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp, SSS Pickups
- [COMPLETE BEGINNER’S PACKAGE] Open the box, and you’re ready to play. This beginner kits includes the DST-80 electric guitar, custom 5W amplifier, durable gig bag, capo, strap, extra strings, digital tuner, amp cable, picks, and access to free online lessons from Donner to help you grow and shine.
- [CUSTOM AMP FOR ANY GROOVE] The custom 5W amp offers Classic and Overdrive settings, plus a 1/8″ auxiliary input to connect with media players or CDs for jamming along. It’s your ultimate sidekick for practice, parties, or performances.
- [CLASSIC TONES, ENDLESS ZONES] With its classic SSS pickup configuration and 5-way switch, this electric guitar delivers bright, dynamic tones—ideal for country, blues, and funk, and perfect for exploring timeless sounds. Tone and volume controls add versatility to match any style, helping you unlock your inner guitar legend.
- [BUILT FOR COMFORT] This beginner electric guitar features an ultra-slim, comfortable C-shaped neck and satin matte finish, plus an easy-to-use circuit system, premium pickguard, and vintage tremolo bridge for a smooth, natural feel.
- [PERFECT FOR ALL, UNIQUE FOR YOU] Whether for kids or adult, beginner or seasoned, this all-inclusive set is the ideal way to kickstart your rock journey. Crafted from premium Manchurian Ash with an open matte finish, each guitar is uniquely beautiful and makes an unforgettable present for any occasion, from Christmas to birthdays.
The DONNER DST-80 is a complete kit designed for beginners. It includes everything from a guitar to an amp and even online lessons. This makes it easy for new players to start learning right away. Compared to the other picks, it offers the most value for those just starting their musical journey. The included accessories, such as a digital tuner and extra strings, also help beginners avoid extra purchases. One limitation is that its design might not appeal to more advanced players in the future.
Pros
- Complete beginner’s kit with essential accessories
- Includes free online lessons to help you learn
- Lightweight design for easy handling
- Custom 5W amplifier for practice
Cons
- Design may not suit advanced players
- Limited color options available
Best for: Beginners needing a complete kit. Not ideal for: Advanced players seeking specific features.
A perfect starting point for anyone looking to play guitar.
2. Best Design
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar Kit, Beginner Guitar Kit, with 2-Year Warranty, with Padded Gig Bag, Frontman 10G Amp, Strap, and…
- One Squier Debut Series Stratocaster electric guitar, Frontman 10G amp, a padded gig bag, a strap, a cable, picks, a guitar stand, and an extra set of strings
- Designed by the most trusted name in guitar and backed by a 75-year legacy of quality and craftsmanship
- This beginner guitar kit is perfect for all ages, and it comes with a free 30-day subscription to Fender Play which includes free lessons to build your skills by playing the songs you love
- Designed for beginners, the Squier Debut Series features the iconic Fender Stratocaster in three signature colors–Black, Dakota Red and 2-Tone Sunburst; this guitar includes a super-comfortable “c” shaped neck, laurel fingerboard and thin, lightweight body for more comfort and playability.
- The Squier Debut Series Strat features three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching that offers a wide range of classic Strat tones
The Squier by Fender Debut Series Stratocaster is our choice for best design. Its classic shape and finish appeal to many guitarists. This model also includes a Frontman 10G amp and accessories, making it a solid beginner kit. The quality of the Squier brand adds to its appeal over other models here. A drawback is that while it offers good sound quality, it lacks some accessories provided in competing options.
Pros
- Classic Stratocaster design with a sleek finish
- Trusted brand with a long history
- Includes quality accessories for beginners
- Good sound with versatility
Cons
- Fewer accessories compared to other kits
- Heavier than some beginner models
Best for: Players who want a stylish guitar. Not ideal for: Those needing a complete accessory package.
A stylish option that balances quality and design.
3. Best Heavy-Duty
Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit
- [H-S-S pickups] Donner electric guitar has two classic Single-coil pickups and one power 203S Humbucker pickup. 5 ways pickup switches and 2-tone & Volume controls for choosing. Suitable for both beginners and professionals.H-S-S pickups are not just perfect for a Texas blues/rock sound, but for other musical styles too
- [Canadian maple neck with “C”shaped profile] Donner DST-100 beginner electric guitar bundle uses purpleheart wood fingerboard, poplar solid body, Canadian maple neck with “C” shaped profile, classic design, comfortable fit
- [22 copper-nickel frets] The 39-inch electric guitar features a pick up selector switch, a volume knob, and two different tone knobs. 22 copper-nickel frets with fret position marks on the neck and top of the fingerboard, and also is smooth and friendly to your hands
- [Complete beginner package] Donner electric guitar set comes with a portable amplifier, 600D quality bag, capo, strap, extra string, digital tuner, amp cable, and picks. Also with online lessons, you can play guitar immediately when you receive them
- [Portable guitar MINI amplifier] The amp comes with an amp cord and has two-tone channels. Easy Control & Little Size & Tube Sound.1/8″ auxiliary input jack for jam-along with media player or CD, 1/8″ headphone output jack for silent practice
The Donner DST-100S is built for players seeking versatility. With H-S-S pickups, it provides a range of sounds suitable for various styles. This feature makes it attractive compared to others that focus on only one sound type. The 5-way pickup switch offers flexibility and control over tone. However, it may be more complicated for absolute beginners due to the extra features.
Pros
- H-S-S pickups for versatile sound options
- 5-way pickup switch for different tones
- Suitable for both beginners and advanced players
- Comfortable neck for easy playability
Cons
- More features might overwhelm new players
- Heavier than similar models
Best for: Players who want versatility in sound. Not ideal for: Absolute beginners who prefer simplicity.
A versatile choice for those ready to explore different sounds.
4. Most Versatile
Donner DST-100B 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit
- [H-S-S pickups] Donner electric guitar has two classic Single-coil pickups and one power 203S Humbucker pickup. 5 ways pickup switches and 2-tone & Volume controls for choosing. Suitable for both beginners and professionals. H-S-S pickups are not just perfect for a Texas blues/rock sound, but for other musical styles too
- [Canadian maple neck with “C”shaped profile] Donner DST-100 beginner electric guitar bundle uses purpleheart wood fingerboard, poplar solid body, Canadian maple neck with “C” shaped profile, classic design, comfortable fit
- [22 copper-nickel frets] The 39-inch electric guitar features a pick up selector switch, a volume knob, and two different tone knobs. 22 copper-nickel frets with fret position marks on the neck and top of the fingerboard, and also is smooth and friendly to your hands
- [Complete beginner package] Donner electric guitar set comes with a portable amplifier, 600D quality bag, capo, strap, extra string, digital tuner, amp cable, and picks. Also with online lessons, you can play guitar immediately when you receive them
- [Portable guitar MINI amplifier] The amp comes with an amp cord and has two-tone channels. Easy Control & Little Size & Tube Sound.1/8″ auxiliary input jack for jam-along with media player or CD, 1/8″ headphone output jack for silent practice
The Donner DST-100B offers similar features to the DST-100S but with some differences. This model also includes H-S-S pickups, allowing for a range of sounds. Its performance is consistent with the other Donner models, making it a reliable choice. While it shares many strengths with the DST-100S, some users might prefer a different color or aesthetic. The main limitation is that it may not be as visually appealing as some competitors.
Pros
- H-S-S pickups provide sound versatility
- Comfortable neck for easy play
- Good for beginners and experienced players
- Affordable option with solid performance
Cons
- Less visually appealing than some options
- May lack unique features found in other brands
Best for: Players looking for a reliable option. Not ideal for: Those who prioritize appearance.
A dependable choice for those who want solid performance.
5. Best Premium
Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, Beginner Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Includes Free Lessons, 2-Color Sunburst with Matte Finish,…
- One Squier Stratocaster electric guitar – a beginner-friendly guitar suitable for players of all ages
- Built with Fender’s renowned guitar-making heritage, the Squier Stratocaster combines quality construction with a legacy of craftsmanship spanning 75 years
- Includes a 30-day Fender Play subscription with access to thousands of instructional videos and lessons, helping beginners develop their skills while learning to play the songs they enjoy at no additional cost
- Designed with beginner-friendly playability in mind, the Squier Stratocaster features a comfortable “C”-shaped neck, laurel fingerboard, and thin, lightweight body for easier handling and comfortable playing
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching provide a versatile range of classic Strat tones, while the tremolo bridge and removable arm enable expressive string-bending effects
The Squier by Fender Stratocaster is known for its classic design and reliable performance. This version stands out with its sunburst finish and is suitable for players of any age. Compared to others, it reflects Fender’s 75-year legacy of quality. The guitar comes with a 30-day subscription for online lessons, enhancing its appeal for new players. However, it does not include as many accessories as some other kits.
Pros
- Classic design with a beautiful finish
- Included lessons to help beginners learn
- Quality construction with a trusted brand
- Versatile for different music styles
Cons
- Fewer accessories than complete kits
- Heavier than other beginner guitars
Best for: Players wanting a classic guitar style. Not ideal for: Those seeking an all-inclusive kit.
An iconic guitar that combines style and function.
6. Best Lightweight
Musicool 39" Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit with Amp for Adult, Black
- BEGINNER-FRIENDLY FULL-SIZE FEEL: This 39-inch electric guitar for beginners features a 648mm (25.5″) scale, C-shaped maple neck, 9.5″ fretboard radius, and smooth Korean-made frets to give adults and students comfortable finger spacing, easier chord changes, and a natural full-size playing feel
- BETTER-EQUIPPED 5W PRACTICE AMP: The rechargeable electric guitar amp delivers up to 6 hours of practice and features Bluetooth 5.0, Clean and Overdrive modes, and Gain, Tone, and Volume controls. Stream backing tracks via Bluetooth or connect an external audio source through the AUX input, shape your sound, and use the headphone output for quiet practice. USB-C charging keeps practice convenient
- VERSATILE HSS ELECTRIC GUITAR: A bridge humbucker, two single-coil pickups, and a 5-way selector give players crisp clean tones, warm blues tones, and fuller pop and rock sounds. Master Volume and dual Tone controls let beginners explore more sounds and playing styles on one guitar as their skills develop
- COMPLETE ELECTRIC GUITAR STARTER KIT: This electric guitar and amp set includes a gig bag, digital tuner, strap, cable, picks, and extra strings—everything beginners need to tune up, plug in, and start practicing right out of the box
- LIGHTWEIGHT SOLID BODY, EASIER TO PLAY: Weighing about 6 lb, the paulownia body helps reduce shoulder and arm fatigue during longer practice sessions, while the maple neck and classic double-cutaway design make the upper frets easier to reach. The gloss black finish gives this solid body electric guitar a clean, classic look
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY FOR PEACE OF MIND: Your Musicool upgraded version electric guitar starter kit is backed by a 1-year warranty and customer support, so beginners can focus on learning and playing with added confidence
The Musicool 39″ Beginner Electric Guitar is designed for adult learners. Its size and feel are suitable for students and adults alike. The C-shaped maple neck provides comfort, making it easier to play. Compared to other beginner models, it offers a full-size feel without being too heavy. However, its sound may not match the quality of more premium models.
Pros
- Full-size feel suitable for adults
- C-shaped neck for comfortable playing
- Good for beginners and students
- Includes essential accessories
Cons
- Sound quality may lack depth
- Less brand recognition compared to others
Best for: Adult beginners needing a full-size guitar. Not ideal for: Younger players or those needing a lighter guitar.
A solid option for adults starting to play guitar.
7. Best Compact
SAYHA Electric Guitar, 39 Inch Solid Full-size Electric Guitar HSS Pickups Starter Kit Includes Amplifier, Bag, Digital Tuner, Strap, String, Cable,…
- High Quality Material: Electric guitar beginner kits comes with Rosewood fingerboard, Canadian Maple neck with “C”shaped profile, Solid basswood body, environmental pickguard, and the frets are polished by hand, which are very round and greatly reduce the damage to your finger.
- S-S-H pickups: Beginner electric guitar set has two classic Single-coil pickups and One Humbucker pickup has strong stability and increased the thickness of the sound. S-S-H pickups is suitable for a Texas blues/rock sound.
- Electric Guitar Kit : The SAYHA 6-String electric guitar has a pickup selector, two tone controls, a volume control, and a whammy bar. The removable whammy bar produces tremolo effects, and the tremolo bridge system allows you to bend the pitch as you play.
- Rechargeable MINI Amplifier: Electric guitar with amp has two tone channels (Clean/Distortion). You can get different tones by adjusting GAIN and TONE, which is more suitable for playing different styles of music. The MINI Amplifier is not restricted by the venue, easy to carry and play anywhere.
- The SAYHA ultimate starter package has full-size guitar & all the parts & equipment that they need to rock straight out the box. A perfect choice for novice & intermediate players. In addition, electric guitar for beginner adults teens has an ergonomic ST design and a striking high-gloss finish, which makes you fondle admiringly.
The SAYHA Electric Guitar kit is another great beginner option. With H-S-S pickups, it offers diverse sound capabilities. The quality materials used, like a rosewood fingerboard and Canadian maple neck, enhance its durability. Compared to others, this model provides good features at an accessible price. One downside is that it might not have the same brand prestige as some well-known names.
Pros
- H-S-S pickups for varied sound
- Quality materials for durability
- Includes complete beginner kit
- Comfortable neck profile
Cons
- Less recognized brand
- Might not deliver the same prestige
Best for: Players wanting a versatile sound. Not ideal for: Those who prefer well-known brands.
A good choice for players seeking a practical starter kit.
8. Best for Beginners
GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar for Music Lover Beginner with 20W Amp and Accessories Pack Guitar Bag (DARK BLUE, 39" Right Handed)
- PERFECT GIFTS: Best choice for yourself or as a gift for your dear friends. A perfect solution for beginners who want to learn to play guitar.
- COMPLETE ACCESSORIES: Come with 1x Electric Guitar, 1 x Amplifier, 1 x Guitar Bag, 1×Shoulder Strap, 2 x Plectrum, 1 x Tremolo Arm , 1 x Connecting Wire, 1 x Spanner Tool. An instrument you can use immediately after opening a package.
- SUPERIOR MATERIAL: The fretboard and face/back Material is made of basswood. This material makes your eletric guitar sound both warm and rock. Strong and durable materials will keep your love for this guitar for many years.
- PORTABLE GUITAR BAG: Equipped with this portable guitar bag, you can take your beloved bass guitar to class, perform, and play music with your band friends.
- COMFORTABLE TOUCH FEELING: Ourourelectric guitar has standard string spacing and smooth neck, which can give you a fantastic touch
The GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar is designed for beginners who want a complete package. It includes a 20W amp and various accessories, making it beginner-friendly. This model stands out for its price and complete kit. However, it may not be as durable or have the same sound quality as higher-end guitars. It’s perfect for those just starting out who do not want to invest heavily.
Pros
- Complete kit with 20W amp
- Good choice for beginners
- Affordable price for full-size guitar
- Includes many useful accessories
Cons
- Sound quality may not be as high
- Durability concerns with lower price
Best for: Those starting and on a budget. Not ideal for: Players looking for high-quality sound.
An affordable option perfect for beginners starting their journey.
9. Best for Small Spaces
Fender Squier Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar, Dakota Red Matte
- One Squier Stratocaster electric guitar – a beginner-friendly guitar suitable for players of all ages
- Built with Fender’s renowned guitar-making heritage, the Squier Stratocaster combines quality construction with a legacy of craftsmanship spanning 75 years
- Includes a 30-day Fender Play subscription with access to thousands of instructional videos and lessons, helping beginners develop their skills while learning to play the songs they enjoy at no additional cost
- Designed with beginner-friendly playability in mind, the Squier Stratocaster features a comfortable “C”-shaped neck, laurel fingerboard, and thin, lightweight body for easier handling and comfortable playing
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching provide a versatile range of classic Strat tones, while the tremolo bridge and removable arm enable expressive string-bending effects
The Squier by Fender Stratocaster in Dakota Red is another excellent choice. This model shares the same reliability and sound as its siblings but offers a unique finish. It is well-suited for players of all ages, emphasizing the brand’s legacy of quality. However, like other Squier models, it may not come with as many accessories as complete kits.
Pros
- Unique Dakota Red matte finish
- Trusted brand with quality craftsmanship
- Good sound suitable for various styles
- Included lessons for beginners
Cons
- Limited accessories included
- Heavier than some beginner models
Best for: Players wanting a striking design. Not ideal for: Those needing an all-inclusive beginner kit.
A stylish option that delivers quality and sound.
10. Best Budget
The Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA is known for its fast neck and beautiful design. It features high-output Infinity R pickups for powerful sound. This option is more focused on performance than beginner friendliness. Compared to others, it’s better suited for players who have some experience. A drawback is that it may not provide the same ease of play as other beginner guitars.
Pros
- Fast, slim maple neck for easy play
- Beautiful quilted maple top for aesthetics
- High-output pickups for strong sound
- Suitable for some advanced techniques
Cons
- Less beginner-friendly than other options
- More difficult for absolute beginners
Best for: Players with some experience. Not ideal for: Complete beginners needing an easy start.
A visually stunning guitar best for those with experience.
Electric Guitars Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows key features of each guitar we reviewed. You can see specs like the type of amp included and the materials used. Beginners should focus on the rows with the best beginner electric guitar.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DONNER DST-80 39” Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp | Editor's Choice | DONNER | $118.99 | Check |
| 2 | Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar… | Best Design | Squier by Fender | $279.99 | Check |
| 3 | Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit | Best Heavy-Duty | Donner | $143.98 | Check |
| 4 | Donner DST-100B 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit | Most Versatile | Donner | $143.99 | Check |
| 5 | Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar | Best Premium | Squier by Fender | $149.99 | Check |
| 6 | Musicool 39" Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit with… | Best Lightweight | Musicool | $106 | Check |
| 7 | SAYHA Electric Guitar | Best Compact | SAYHA | $94.99 | Check |
| 8 | GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar for Music Lover Beginner… | Best for Beginners | GLARRY | $114.99 | Check |
| 9 | Fender Squier Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar | Best for Small Spaces | Squier by Fender | $149.99 | Check |
| 10 | Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA | Best Budget | Hoshino USA | 0 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from various trusted sources, including customer reviews, product listings, and expert recommendations. Over 50 electric guitars were considered for this article. We focused on beginner-friendly options that offer value to new players.
How we built this shortlist
Our shortlist highlights products designed for beginners. We looked for guitars with complete kits, good reviews, and reliable brands. Only electric guitars with essential accessories and solid construction made it onto our list.
What we ruled out and why
Some guitars were dropped due to poor customer feedback or inadequate features for beginners. We excluded products that lacked essential elements like an amplifier or instructional materials, as these are important for new players.
What we did not do
No hands-on testing was performed for these products. We did not conduct lab measurements nor create scores based on subjective experiences. All information is gathered from reliable sources.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated regularly. We plan to review new products and changes in customer feedback every six months. This ensures you get the most current information about beginner electric guitars.
How to Choose Electric Guitars
Consider the kit contents
When choosing a beginner electric guitar, look at what’s included in the kit. A good starter kit should have not just the guitar, but also an amplifier, cables, a strap, and picks. This ensures you have everything you need to start playing right away.
Check the pickup types
Pickups determine the sound of the guitar. Single-coil pickups offer a bright sound, while humbucker pickups are fuller and warmer. For beginners, a guitar with a mix like H-S-S pickups can provide a versatile sound for different music styles.
Look for a comfortable neck
A comfortable neck helps you play longer without straining. Look for a neck with a C-shaped profile, which is easier for most beginners to hold. Also, consider the fretboard radius, as a smaller radius can make it easier to press down strings.
Prioritize weight and size
Weight and size matter for comfort. A lightweight guitar is easier to handle, especially for younger players. Full-size guitars, like 39 inches, are standard for adults. Ensure the guitar fits your size to enjoy playing.
Don’t skip the warranty
A warranty can protect your investment. Look for guitars that offer at least a one-year warranty. This gives you confidence in case of manufacturing defects, ensuring you can focus on learning to play.
What to look for
Materials used
Electric guitars are made from various materials, affecting their sound and playability. Common woods include basswood for the body and maple for the neck. Look for guitars with solid construction for durability and better sound.
Type of amplifier
The amplifier is important for sound output. Many beginner kits include a small practice amp. A 5W or 10W amp is usually enough for practice at home. Ensure the amp has basic controls for adjusting volume and tone.
Pickups and sound
Pickups are the heart of an electric guitar’s sound. Single-coil pickups provide a bright tone, while humbuckers offer a warmer sound. Beginners might benefit from guitars with both types of pickups for versatility.
Included accessories
Look for beginner kits that come with essential accessories. A gig bag protects the guitar, while a tuner helps you stay in tune. Picks, straps, and extra strings can also enhance your learning experience.
Ease of setup
New players should choose guitars that are easy to set up and use. Many beginner kits come with pre-adjusted guitars, meaning you can start playing right out of the box. This saves time and frustration.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best beginner electric guitar?
The best beginner electric guitar is subjective, but many recommend the DONNER DST-80. It offers a complete package and is user-friendly for new players.
How much should I spend on a beginner electric guitar?
Spending between $200 to $500 is common for a good beginner electric guitar. This range usually provides decent quality and essential accessories.
What accessories do I need for a beginner electric guitar?
Essential accessories include an amplifier, gig bag, tuner, picks, and a strap. Some beginner kits include these items, making it easier for new players.
Are Squier guitars good for beginners?
Yes, Squier guitars are often recommended for beginners. They offer quality construction and sound at a more affordable price compared to other brands.
Can I learn guitar with an electric guitar?
Absolutely! Learning on an electric guitar can be easier for some. The lighter strings and lower action can help beginners play more comfortably.
Shopping around? We have 42 more electric guitar guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- NIH noise-induced hearing loss NIDCD (NIH)
- ENERGY STAR televisions ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
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