Best Beginner Electric Guitar (Top 10 & Rated)

Ever thought about strumming like the legends, from Hendrix to Clapton, while kick-starting your own musical legacy? Choosing the ideal first ‘axe’ is crucial on this journey.

Welcome to our expertly curated collection of the best beginner electric guitars. They’re high-quality, easy to play, and won’t require you to break the bank. So, stop dreaming and start rocking – the stage is all yours!

Best Beginner Electric Guitar – By Category

Which Brands Make The Best Beginner Electric Guitars?

Yamaha: Known for its extensive range of musical instruments, Yamaha is highly reputable in the guitar community. The Yamaha Pacifica 112V is particularly appreciated among beginners for its versatility and 5-way pick-up system.

It’s a testament to Yamaha’s consistency in providing high-quality instruments with excellent playability. Yamaha is also known for its remote teaching availability, making it easier for beginners to learn and improve their skills.

Yamaha Pacifica guitars are famous for their unbeatable quality, unique design, and humbucking pickup for versatile tones.

Squier: Squier is a brand owned by the renowned guitar company Fender. It offers more affordable versions of Fender’s classic guitar models.

Squier guitars, like the Bullet Mustang, Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster, Affinity Stratocaster, and Affinity Telecaster, are often recommended to beginners.

These models cover a wide range of tones suitable for various genres and have an excellent build quality that makes them a joy to play.

Epiphone: Epiphone is another brand owned by a prominent guitar company, Gibson. Epiphone offers more budget-friendly versions of many Gibson models like the Gibson les paul.

Models like the Les Paul Studio and Les Paul Studio LT provide the iconic Les Paul sound and feel at a more accessible price point.

The Epiphone SG Standard also offers the aggressive tones that the Gibson SG is known for.

Gretsch: Gretsch is known for producing guitars with unique designs and distinctive tones. Models like the Gretsch G2420 Streamliner and G5425 Electromatic Jet Club are known for their high-quality craftsmanship and affordability.

They offer a warm, rich sound that’s great for genres like jazz, blues, and rockabilly.

Ibanez: Ibanez guitars are known for their sleek designs, playability, and versatility. The Ibanez Artcore AS53 and RG421 Electric Guitar are notable beginner options from the brand.

The Artcore series is known for its semi-hollow body guitars that produce a warm, resonant tone suitable for jazz and blues.

On the other hand, the RG series is known for its aggressive tone and fast playability, making it suitable for genres like rock and metal.

How Much Should You Spend On a Beginner Electric Guitar?

When setting a budget for your first electric guitar, a reasonable range is between £150 and £500.

A beginner-friendly guitar, such as the Yamaha Pacifica 112V, can be picked up for about £150. If you’re able to invest a little more, more premium options like the PRS SE series can cost close to £500.

When deciding how much dosh to part with for a beginner’s electric guitar, don’t be blinded by the price of the guitar alone. It’s vital to take stock of what accompanies the instrument.

These accessories often include a gig bag or case for transportation and storage, a guitar stand, a strap for playing while standing, picks for strumming, extra strings for when the inevitable string snap occurs, a digital tuner for keeping your guitar in pitch-perfect condition, and a practice amp to start cranking out those chords.

A prime example of this is the Display4top Full-Size Electric Guitar which is just over £100 and comes as a beginner super kit, including everything you need to get started on your journey.

Should a Beginner Start With An Electric Guitar?

Absolutely! Picking up an electric guitar as a beginner has its unique advantages, a fact I can vouch for from my personal experience of strumming strings for the past 15 years. I began my musical journey with a classical guitar, a decision rooted in its gentler, lighter strings that reduced finger discomfort.

While calluses naturally develop over time, making your fingers more resilient, starting with an electric guitar eases this process and reduces initial discomfort.

It’s not just about comfort either – the lighter strings and slimmer neck of an electric guitar often make it more accessible and manageable for beginners.

Looking back, I reckon choosing an electric guitar as your first instrument could pave the way for a more effortless and less discomforting road to guitar mastery, particularly during those crucial early learning stages.

Best Beginner Electric Guitar (Top 10)

1. Ibanez GIO SA Series GSA60

If you’re on the hunt for a fantastic electric guitar, look no further than the Ibanez GIO SA Series GSA60-WNF in Walnut Flat. This beauty is a real game-changer, suitable for guitarists of all levels. Ibanez is a brand known for their top-notch quality, and this guitar lives up to its reputation.

What I absolutely love about the GSA60-WNF is how comfortable it is to play. The contoured body made from Okoume tone wood and the smooth maple neck makes it a breeze to strum away for hours without any discomfort.

The guitar not only feels great but also looks incredible. With its stylish chrome hardware and eye-catching bound Purpleheart fretboard with white dot inlays, it’s sure to turn heads on stage.

And let’s not forget about the sound! The H-S-S pickup configuration and synchronized tremolo system give you incredible versatility to explore different genres and tones. Very good guitar and one of the best electric guitars you can buy.

2. Fender Squier by Stratocaster Beginner Guitar Pack

If you’re just starting out on your musical adventure, let me tell you, the Fender Squier Stratocaster Beginner Guitar Pack is an absolute game-changer. Trust me, I’ve been there too, and this pack has everything you need to dive right into playing.

The pack also includes the Squier Frontman 10G amplifier, so you can crank up the volume and let your sound roar. Whether you want to jam along to your favourite tracks or practice quietly with headphones, this amp has got your back.

And guess what?

They didn’t stop there. They’ve thrown in a padded gig bag, strap, guitar cable, and picks, so you’re all set to hit the stage or rock out in your bedroom.

Oh, and did I mention? You’ll also get a free 3-month subscription to Fender Play. Exceptional guitar and brand and another great choice for the best electric guitars available in the uk.

3. Yamaha Pacifica 112V Electric Guitar

The Yamaha Pacifica 112V electric guitar is a fantastic choice for both beginners and advanced guitar players. With its versatile 5-way pick-up system, it delivers an excellent sound that suits various music styles.

The Pacifica 112V boasts solid construction and reliable electronics, making it a standard choice among guitar enthusiasts. Its volume and tone controls, 5-way switch, and vintage tremolo offer great versatility for creative exploration.

With its solid construction, reliable electronics, and attention to detail, the Pacifica 112V exemplifies Yamaha’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Whether you’re strumming gentle chords or unleashing blazing solos, this guitar delivers exceptional sound and responsiveness.

4. Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT

This guitar has a place in my heart and is one of the first guitars I bought in my first years of learning the guitar. Exceptional good value for money and Epiphone is a perfect guitar for beginners! This guitar can be used from beginners all the way to professionals.

Despite the high-quality features, the Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT maintains an affordable price point. This makes it a valuable choice for beginners and casual players, but it also has plenty to offer more experienced musicians. That being said, some players may find the need for minor modifications or upgrades over time, which is not uncommon for guitars in this price range. Incredible guitar and another great choice for the best electric guitars on the market.

5. RockJam RJ20WAR2 Electric Guitar Superkit

The RockJam RJ20WAR2 Full Size Electric Guitar Superkit is an excellent choice for beginners looking to dive into the world of electric guitar playing. This comprehensive kit provides everything you need to get started right away.

The full-size black electric guitar features a solid basswood body and comes with spare strings, guitar picks, and a strap, ensuring you have all the essentials.

The five-way pickup selector switch, three single coil pickups, and tone and volume controls offer versatility in finding your desired sound.

The included 20-watt amplifier with an overdrive boost function delivers ample power for practice sessions, and the headphone output allows for silent practice.

The digital clip-on guitar tuner ensures accurate tuning, and the guitar bag provides convenience for travel. While the kit may not cater to advanced or professional guitarists, it offers great value and functionality for beginners.

6. Display4top Electric Guitar Beginner Super Kit

The Display4top Full-Size Electric Guitar Beginner Super Kit is an excellent package for aspiring guitarists. It comes with everything you need to start playing right away, including a 20 Watt amplifier, guitar stand, bag, pick, strap, spare strings, tuner, case, and cable.

Overall, the Display4top Full-Size Electric Guitar Beginner Super Kit offers great value for its comprehensive set of accessories and solid construction, making it an ideal choice for beginners.

7. Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 50s Stratocaster

The Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 50’s Stratocaster is an impressive tribute to the iconic guitars of yesteryears, offering authentic, vintage-style looks with a modern playing feel. The body, made of pine, coupled with the maple neck and fretboard, gives the guitar a robust and resonant tone.

The neck’s vintage-tint gloss finish adds to the overall allure of the instrument. With its throwback style and versatile tones, this guitar is a fantastic addition whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned guitar player. Available in different colours, the 2-Colour Sunburst model particularly stands out for its retro look.

8. Ibanez GAX30-TCR GIO AX Series Electric Guitar

The Ibanez GAX30-TCR GIO AX Series Electric Guitar in Transparent Cherry Red is an impressive blend of affordability and craftsmanship, perfectly designed for both novice and intermediate guitarists. Ibanez, a well-established name in the industry, doesn’t compromise on quality and playability, and this is palpable in every detail of the GAX30 model.

Complemented by the jatoba fretboard known for its durability and superior tonal qualities. A significant feature is the neck made of maple, which ensures smooth transitions between notes and chords, complemented by the jatoba fretboard known for its durability and superior tonal qualities.

The ‘H’ pickup configuration makes the GAX30 versatile and well-suited to a range of music genres. The alloy steel strings, known for their durability and bright tone, add to the overall value of this model. For the right-handed guitar player, this guitar offers a comfortable playing experience, enhanced by the ergonomic design.

9. Gretsch Guitars G2420 Streamliner Phantom

If there is one guitar that truly embodies the perfect marriage of vintage aesthetics and modern technology, it is the Gretsch Guitars G2420 Streamliner the most expensive guitars on the list. With its sleek Phantom Metallic finish and the iconic jazz shape, this hollow-body electric guitar is a visual treat, sure to draw attention whether on stage or in the studio.

Where this guitar truly shines is in its sound. The Gretsch Streamliner G2420 is equipped with the newly developed Broad’Tron BT-2S pickups. These deliver a sound that is not only powerful but also incredibly clear. Whether you’re playing clean or overdriven tones, the guitar’s response is impressive, and the tonal versatility makes it suitable for a wide variety of musical genres.

10. Donner 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit

Donner’s DST-100L electric guitar kit is a fantastic all-in-one beginner package that delivers significant value for its price point. The guitar itself is visually stunning, with its Purple Sapphire Blue finish, it’s sure to make an impression. But the guitar isn’t just about looks; it delivers on performance as well.

Constructed with a Canadian maple neck with a comfortable “C” shaped profile, a solid poplar body, and a purpleheart wood fingerboard, this guitar is a delight to play. It also boasts 22 copper-nickel frets with fret position marks, which are great features for beginners. The one-way tremolo allows for some interesting effects and further expands your tonal options.

Best Way To Learn How To Play Guitar As A Beginner?

Starting to play the guitar can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, practice, and patience, you can begin your musical journey smoothly. Here’s the best way to start learning guitar as a beginner:

Get the Basics Right: Understand the guitar parts, learn the string order and names, and know how to hold the guitar and the pick correctly. Before looking for guitar lessons its best to get the basics right.

I learnt how to play guitar on my own by looking at youtube videos, this was to save money, my favourite YouTubers for learning guitar are Andy Crowley and Marty Music.

Tuning: Learn to tune your guitar either manually or using an electronic tuner. A well-tuned guitar not only sounds better, but it also aids in ear training.

Learn Basic Chords: Start by learning basic chords, like C, D, G, and E minor. It’s crucial to place your fingers close to the frets for clean chords. Master major and minor chords and familiarize yourself with guitar TABs and chord diagrams on Ultimate Guitar, this website has been around since I started in 2008.

Practice Techniques: Practice efficient movements and shared finger patterns to improve chord changes. Finger soreness is common in the beginning, but it’ll fade with practice.

Learn Strumming Techniques: Strumming techniques are key, including downstrokes and upstrokes. Mastering strumming, chord transitions, and scales take time and practice.

Play Songs: As you become more comfortable with chords and strumming, start learning to play simple songs. Playing songs helps you apply techniques, teaches song structure, and makes practising enjoyable.

Develop Your Ear: Try to pick up songs by ear. This can enhance your ability to identify notes, patterns, and chords.

Regular Practice: Consistency is key in learning guitar. Establish a regular practice schedule and stick to it. Use resources like Fender Play or Guitar Lessons by Guitar Tricks app for structured, bite-sized lessons that you can follow at your own pace.

Patience and Dedication: It’s important to be patient with your progress and dedicated to practising regularly. Remember, learning guitar is a fun and rewarding journey.

Many beginners either get frustrated or lose interest so its important to keep going even through the hard times as a beginner.

Ideal Learning Environment: Find the right guitar for you and create a conducive learning environment to enhance your practice sessions