Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Electric Guitars Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Best Overall
- 2. Best for Beginners
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Most Versatile
- 5. Best Budget
- 6. Best Design
- 7. Best for Beginners
- 8. Best Heavy-Duty
- Electric Guitars Compared Side by Side
- How to Choose Electric Guitars
- How We Reviewed
- Frequently asked questions
- What to look for
If you want the best electric guitar songs for beginners, the DONNER DST-80 is a great choice. This guitar kit includes everything you need to start playing. It comes with a 5W amplifier, a gig bag, and even a digital tuner. For a more budget-friendly option, the Squier by Fender Stratocaster is a solid pick, but it lacks some accessories that the DONNER kit offers.
The main tradeoff for most buyers is the choice between a complete beginner kit and a more traditional guitar setup. This page will provide you with detailed reviews and comparisons to help you make the best choice.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Electric Guitars Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the top electric guitars for beginners. Each option includes essential features to help you start playing.
1. Best Overall
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 an excellent choice for beginners. It comes fully equipped with everything you need to start playing right away. The included 5W amplifier provides good sound for practice sessions. This guitar has a sleek design and is lightweight, making it easy to handle. The kit also offers access to free online lessons, which can be very helpful for new players. Compared to other picks, it includes more accessories that are essential for beginners. While the amplifier is not powerful enough for large venues, it is suitable for home use. Overall, this guitar kit is a fantastic option for those just starting out.
Pros
- Complete beginner’s package with all essential accessories
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Includes a custom 5W amplifier
- Access to free online lessons for new players
Cons
- Amplifier may not be powerful for larger spaces
- Limited tonal options compared to higher-end models
Best for: Complete beginners looking for a full kit. Not ideal for: Players seeking advanced features or sounds.
This kit provides everything you need to start your guitar journey.
2. Best for Beginners
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 Stratocaster is a great choice for beginners as well. It offers a classic design and is known for its quality. This model comes with a padded gig bag, a Frontman 10G amp, and all necessary accessories. The guitar features a comfortable neck and is suitable for various music styles. Compared to the DONNER DST-80, it lacks some accessories, like a digital tuner and extra strings. While it may not have all the extras, it has the backing of Fender’s 75 years of craftsmanship. However, it is heavier than some beginner models, which could be a downside for younger players.
Pros
- Trusted brand with a long history of quality
- Includes essential accessories for beginners
- Classic design suitable for various music styles
- Comfortable neck for easy playability
Cons
- No digital tuner or extra strings included
- Heavier than some other beginner models
Best for: Players who want a classic guitar design. Not ideal for: Those who need an all-in-one beginner kit.
A classic choice that delivers quality and style for new players.
3. Runner-Up
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 another excellent option for beginners. This guitar features H-S-S pickups, which provide many sound options. It has two single-coil pickups and one humbucker, allowing for versatility. The design is sleek, and it is easy to play. When compared to the previous models, it offers more tonal possibilities, making it suitable for different genres. However, it does not come with a complete accessory kit, so some items may need to be purchased separately. This limitation could be a drawback for absolute beginners who need everything in one package.
Pros
- Versatile H-S-S pickup configuration
- Sleek design and comfortable to play
- Good for a variety of musical styles
Cons
- Does not include essential accessories like an amplifier
- May require additional purchases for beginners
Best for: Players seeking a versatile sound experience. Not ideal for: Absolute beginners needing a complete kit.
This guitar offers great sound options for those willing to invest in accessories.
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 is quite similar to the DST-100S, featuring the same H-S-S pickup configuration. The quality and playability match its sibling, making it another solid choice. It provides excellent sound versatility and a sleek look as well. However, like the DST-100S, it does not include an amplifier or other essential accessories. This makes it less suitable for absolute beginners. Those who already have some gear or are willing to invest in extras may find it a great fit. Its design is appealing for those who want a guitar that looks and sounds good.
Pros
- Similar versatile H-S-S pickup design
- Sleek appearance and comfortable playability
- Good for various music genres
Cons
- Lacks essential accessories for beginners
- Extra purchases may be needed for a complete setup
Best for: Players wanting a stylish, versatile guitar. Not ideal for: Beginners needing a full kit with accessories.
A stylish option for those ready to invest in their musical journey.
5. Best Budget
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 Debut Series Stratocaster offers a solid entry point into electric guitar playing. This model has a padded gig bag and a Frontman 10G amp, which makes it a practical choice. The build quality is reliable, backed by Fender’s reputation. Compared to other beginner models, it emphasizes playability with its comfortable neck. However, it may feel heavier for younger kids or those looking for a lightweight option. The included accessories are basic but sufficient for getting started. This guitar would suit players looking for guidance from a reputable brand.
Pros
- Includes a padded gig bag and Frontman 10G amp
- Reliable build quality from Fender
- Comfortable neck for ease of play
Cons
- Heavier than some beginner guitars
- Basic accessories may not be enough for all players
Best for: New players wanting a reliable guitar from a trusted brand. Not ideal for: Those needing a lightweight option.
This guitar sets a strong foundation for any beginner.
6. Best Design
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 Starter Kit is a well-rounded option. It includes a 5W amplifier and comes with a gig bag and accessories. The C-shaped maple neck makes it comfortable for beginners. This guitar is slightly bigger, which can be good for adults but may not suit younger players. Compared to other options, it strikes a balance between quality and affordability. However, its sound may be less dynamic than models with better pickups. For beginners, it provides essential tools to start learning without unnecessary complexity.
Pros
- Includes a comfortable C-shaped maple neck
- Complete kit with a 5W amplifier and accessories
- Good balance between quality and affordability
Cons
- Sound may not be as dynamic as higher-end models
- Bigger size might not suit younger players
Best for: Adults starting their guitar journey. Not ideal for: Younger players needing a smaller instrument.
A solid kit for adults seeking a beginner guitar experience.
7. Best for Beginners
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 is a solid choice for beginners as well. It features H-S-S pickups, allowing for various sound options. The materials used are durable, with a rosewood fingerboard and a solid basswood body. This guitar is comfortable to play and designed for ease of use. Compared to others, it offers a good balance of quality and price, but it lacks some of the additional accessories that other kits provide. This could be an issue for beginners who prefer an all-in-one solution. Overall, this model is a great fit for those looking to explore different sounds.
Pros
- Durable materials including rosewood and basswood
- H-S-S pickups for versatile sound options
- Comfortable design for ease of play
Cons
- Fewer accessories included than some beginner kits
- May require purchasing additional items
Best for: Players interested in exploring different sounds. Not ideal for: Beginners needing a full accessory kit.
A versatile option for those ready to experiment with sound.
8. Best Heavy-Duty
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 music lovers who are new to playing. It comes with a 20W amp and all the necessary accessories for beginners. This makes it an appealing choice for those wanting a complete setup. The guitar has a sleek design and feels good to play. However, it may not deliver the same sound quality as more expensive models. While ideal for learning, those with more experience may find it lacking. Still, for beginners, this guitar provides a straightforward entry into playing electric guitar.
Pros
- Complete kit with a 20W amplifier and accessories
- Sleek design suitable for beginners
- Good starter option for learning
Cons
- Sound quality may not satisfy experienced players
- Limited tonal options compared to higher-end models
Best for: Beginners wanting a complete set to start playing. Not ideal for: Advanced players seeking high-quality sound.
A straightforward choice for those beginning their electric guitar adventure.
Electric Guitars Compared Side by Side
This table compares the top picks in our best electric guitar songs for beginners list. The columns show key features like included accessories, amp type, and design. Beginners should look at the first few rows for the best options.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DONNER DST-80 39” Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp | Best Overall | DONNER | $118.99 | Check |
| 2 | Fender Squier Debut Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar… | Best for Beginners | Squier by Fender | $279.99 | Check |
| 3 | Donner DST-100S 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit | Runner-Up | 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 Budget | Squier by Fender | $149.99 | Check |
| 6 | Musicool 39" Beginner Electric Guitar Starter Kit with… | Best Design | Musicool | $106 | Check |
| 7 | SAYHA Electric Guitar | Best for Beginners | SAYHA | $94.99 | Check |
| 8 | GLARRY Full Size Electric Guitar for Music Lover Beginner… | Best Heavy-Duty | GLARRY | $114.99 | Check |
| 9 | Fender Squier Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar | — | Squier by Fender | $149.99 | Check |
| 10 | Ibanez GIO Series GRX70QA | — | Hoshino USA | 0 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Electric Guitars
Guitar Size
Most beginner electric guitars are 39 inches long. This size fits most adults and teens well. If you are younger, consider a smaller model, typically around 36 inches. Always check the scale length too. A standard scale length is about 25.5 inches.
Pickup Type
The type of pickups affects your sound. Single-coil pickups give a bright, clear tone, while humbuckers provide a thicker sound. Beginners may prefer guitars with both types. This combination lets you explore different sounds.
Included Accessories
A good guitar kit should have more than just the guitar. Look for kits that include an amplifier, gig bag, strap, and tuner. Many beginner kits also come with extra strings and picks. These items help you start playing immediately.
Material Quality
Electric guitars are made from various materials. Basswood is common for beginner guitars due to its lighter weight and good sound. Maple necks add durability and comfort. Get a guitar that feels good in your hands.
Warranty and Support
A warranty can give you confidence. Look for guitars with at least a one-year warranty. Some brands offer 2-year warranties and free online lessons. This support can help you grow as a player.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from official product descriptions and reputable music gear websites. This included user reviews and ratings from online retailers. We looked at over 30 different electric guitars.
How we built this shortlist
The shortlist was based on beginner-friendly features, overall quality, and included accessories. We focused on guitars that have good ratings and are popular among new players. Only those with high user satisfaction made the cut.
What we ruled out and why
Models lacking essential accessories were removed from consideration. We also excluded guitars with poor user feedback or low-quality materials. Each option had to meet specific criteria to be included.
What we did not do
No products were physically tested by hand. We did not perform lab measurements or create arbitrary scores. Our focus was on gathering reliable data to present honest comparisons.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly to include the latest models and trends. We will review new data and user feedback regularly. Our goal is to keep the information current and relevant.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best electric guitar songs for beginners?
Some popular songs for beginners include “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple and “Wonderwall” by Oasis. These songs use simple chords and are easy to learn.
Do I need an amplifier for my electric guitar?
Yes, an amplifier is essential for electric guitars. It boosts the sound and allows you to play with more volume.
Can beginners use any electric guitar?
Not all electric guitars are suitable for beginners. Look for kits designed for new players, which include essential accessories and support.
How do I choose the right electric guitar?
Consider the size, pickup type, and included accessories. A good beginner guitar should feel comfortable and come with items that help you start playing.
Are electric guitars heavier than acoustic guitars?
Electric guitars can be heavier due to their materials and hardware. However, many beginner models are designed to be lightweight and easy to handle.
What to look for
Sound Quality
Sound quality is important for an electric guitar. The pickups play a significant role in how your guitar sounds. Single-coil pickups offer clarity, while humbuckers provide a fuller tone. Choose a guitar that fits the sound you want.
Portability
Portability is essential for beginners. Look for guitars that come with a gig bag. A lightweight guitar is easier to carry around for practice or lessons. Make sure it’s easy to transport.
Versatility of Sound
A versatile guitar allows you to play different music styles. Some models have various pickup configurations, like H-S-S. This setup gives you the flexibility to explore different genres easily.
Build Quality
The build quality affects durability. A well-constructed guitar will last longer and withstand regular use. Look for solid body materials and a sturdy neck for better performance.
Learning Resources
Many beginner guitar kits include online lessons. These resources can help you develop your skills. Check if the kit offers additional support or subscriptions to learning platforms.
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:
- MedlinePlus hearing MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine
- NIH noise-induced hearing loss NIDCD (NIH)
About the author
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