This is our review of the best electric guitar under $300.
We think Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 is the best overall choice in the budget range. It’s the best deal for your hard earned money backed by a trusted brand.
However, we know like us you too want to explore few more alternatives. Navigating the vast electric guitar market can be overwhelming, with countless brands and models to choose from.
Thanks to advancements in technology and fierce competition among manufacturers, you can actually find budget-friendly electric guitars that not only sound great but also feel and look fantastic.
And you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve done the hard work for you and selected 8 gems covering a wide spectrum of body shapes, tonewoods, pickup configuration and musical styles. We hope you’ll find the perfect one to wake up the neighbors!
Let’s dive in…
8 Best Electric Guitars Under $300
- Squier by Fender, Stratocaster Affinity Series (Best Budget)
- Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 (Best Overall)
- Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster (Best Telecaster)
- Ibanez 6-String Solid Body (GRX70AQATEB) (Best HSH Configuration)
- Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 (Best Les Paul Alternative)
- Ibanez AX Series Electric Guitar (Best Gibson SG Series Alternative)
- Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 (Best for Metal Heads)
- WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar (Best Semi-hollow)
Best Electric Guitars Under $300 Reviewed
Opinion on what is the best electric guitar for your budget is subjective. Drawing from our own firsthand encounters, extensive research, and insights from customers, we’ve curated a list of 8 value for money budget electric guitars under $300. Hope you find the one to wake up the neighbors! 😉
Squier by Fender Electric Guitar, Stratocaster Affinity Series
A stylish and budget-friendly choice for those looking to own a Fender Stratocaster without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable for playing
- Reliable chrome die-cast tuning machines
- 7 Color Choices
Cons
- Slightly thinner body than standard Stratocaster
- Neck finish may not be preferred by all
First off, the Squier by Fender Electric Guitar is a fantastic entry point into Fender’s Stratocaster lineup. Keeping its iconic design and versatile tone, this guitar delivers an authentic experience while staying within the budget range. It is ideal for aspiring musicians looking to practice and refine their skills with an instrument that is synonymous with rock and blues music.
When it comes to playability, the guitar sports a lightweight poplar body and a comfortable, slim “”C”” shaped neck profile. This design aspect ensures that you can practice or perform without unnecessary strain on your body. You might appreciate the trade-off of a slightly thinner body, as it provides increased comfort in long playing sessions.
One vital aspect of an electric guitar is maintaining proper tuning stability, and the Squier by Fender has reliable chrome die-cast tuning machines. With sealed die-casting and split shafts, these tuners can keep your guitar in tune with ease during practice and performances alike.
However, the guitar’s slightly thinner body may not be suitable for all guitar players. Those who prefer the traditional Stratocaster feel might be disappointed here. Also, the neck’s satin finish, while smooth, may not be preferred by players who like gloss-finished necks.
The few imperfections can be seen as compromises made to keep the price under $300, but overall, it’s an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned players alike in the budget category.
Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar
The Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable electric guitar with solid features and build quality.
Pros
- Agathis body provides a durable and lightweight construction
- Maple bolt-on neck offers excellent playability and stability
- 5-position switch allows versatility in tone
Cons
- Requires frequent tuning initially during break-in period
- Tremolo system may not be suitable for advanced players
The Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 Electric Guitar is another budget friendly choice among strat shape fans. The Agathis body provides both durability and a lightweight feel, making it comfortable to play for extended periods.
One of the feature we liked is how Yamaha simplified on Fender’s original 3-knob tone control design to 2-knobs. The single knob for tone control manages to do a fairly good job for each pickup combination enabling you to explore a variety of tones for your unique playing style.
In this budget range, we advise players to have reasonable expectations from the tremolo systems. Going overboard using the tremolo arm will most certainly knock the guitar’s tuning off. In fact, we don’t use the tremolo arm at all.
Nevertheless, the overall package from Yamaha offers excellent value and quality for those seeking an entry-level electric guitar.
Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster
The Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster offers excellent quality and versatility at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Wide range of tones from two single-coil pickups
- 6 Saddle bridge for better intonation along each string
- Comfortable neck and quality construction
Cons
- Single coil pickup noise and feedback on higher volumes
- Volume and tone a little less responsive
The Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster is an inviting choice for beginners starting out.
Keeping with tradition Fender expectedly has gone with an Alder for body over Maple for neck and fingerboard.
With this unique combination over two single-coil pickups with a 3-way pickup selector, players can expect a selection of versatile tones perfect for genres form blues, rock or country.
In terms of comfort, the Telecaster’s neck allows for effortless playing, making it ideal for extended practice sessions. The guitar’s overall build quality is impressive, with solid hardware and construction to ensure durability.
However, we expected slightly better quality single-coil pickups which makes the guitar fall short of the classic Tele experience. Also, some users have reported minor issues with volume and tone knob responsiveness to adjustments.
Despite these drawbacks, the Fender Squier Affinity Telecaster still offers an excellent balance of quality, versatility, and affordability, making it a top choice for those seeking the best electric guitar under 300.
Ibanez 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar
This Ibanez electric guitar is perfect for those seeking an affordable, stylish, and quality instrument to begin or continue their musical journey.
Pros
- Fast, slim Maple neck
- Gorgeous quilted Maple art grain top
- Powerful Infinity R pickups
- 5 Color options with a guitar strap
Cons
- Not suitable for those seeking a heavy, metal sound
- Beginner-friendly, but may be limiting for advanced players
- Some may find the body material less durable than high-end guitars
The Ibanez 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar stands out with its transparent burst finish look and quilted Maple art grain top. With a slim Maple neck, this guitar offers comfort and ease of play, ideal for those starting their musical journey or those looking for a more straightforward playing experience.
Featuring high-output Infinity R pickups, this Ibanez guitar provides a powerful and versatile sound that can adapt to various music styles. However, it may not be the top choice for those seeking an intense, heavy metal sound, as its tonal qualities lean more towards a brighter and punchy range.
While beautifully designed and comfortable to play, this Ibanez electric guitar may not provide the same durability or craftsmanship found in higher-end models due to its more affordable body materials. That being said, its quality and playability still offer a fantastic experience considering this price range.
For those beginners looking to jump straight into punchy power chords, we are confident you’ll be more than pleased with this stylish, comfortable and versatile offer from Ibanez that’ll suit your wallet just right.
Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1
Pros
- Well-crafted mahogany body
- Quality 700T Humbucker pickups
- Smooth rosewood fretboard
Cons
- A pick guard would’ve been nice
- Nickel strings may not be for everyone
This is probably the closest you’ll get to feeling a Les Paul in your hands on a budget. No wonder it is Epiphone’s most popular model in the market.
Just holding a Les Paul will make you want to play more – guaranteed.
As an aspiring guitarist, you’ll appreciate the Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1’s beautiful gloss finish offered in 3 color variants over a mahogany body. The 24.75-inch scale length over a classic compact body and surprisingly light weight provides for overall playing comfort, perfect for longer sessions on a stage.
The 700T (bridge) and 650R (neck) Humbucker pickups give the guitar a rich and powerful sound that sets it apart from other electric guitars in its price range. The guitar’s rosewood fretboard is not only visually appealing but also offers a smooth playing experience. With its Tune-O-Matic bridge system, you can expect stable tuning and easy adjustments as needed.
The Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 is an excellent choice if you’re searching for an affordable, top-quality guitar under $300. Its combination of attractive design, outstanding pick-ups, and comfortable playability make it a wise investment for your musical journey.
Ibanez AX 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar
We found something for our Les Paul fans for a budget, now there’s a no reason to disappoint our Gibson SG fans. Ibanez AX Series is our choice for Gibson SG fans looking for a budget alternative.
Pros
- Beveled Body for added comfort
- AX Maple neck for smooth playability
- 2 Volume / 2 Tone controls for sound customization
Cons
- Fret edges might require some filing
- Bridge pickup may not be adjustable vertically
The AX series, first introduced in 1998 has been popular among Ibanez fans. The AX comes with a lightweight, thin beveled body, over a maple AX neck offering smooth playing experience that is perfect for beginners and experienced players alike.
Classic Elite humbuckers are passive pickups known for their versatility and warmth. Expect a moderate output level with a focus on clarity and midrange presence. These pickups are suitable for a wide range of genres, from rock and blues to jazz and beyond. The ceramic magnets in these pickups may provide a slightly hotter and more aggressive sound compared to other pickup types, which can be great for overdriven tones.
The bridge pickup may not be vertically adjustable, limiting your ability to fine-tune your sound. Some users have also experienced quality control issues, which is worth considering when making your decision.
For those looking for standard HH configuration but don’t want to go for a Les Paul or a Jackson, the Ibanez AX Series offers an excellent budget alternative offering versatile sound selection with playing comfort ideal for beginner practice sessions.
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22
You absolutely can go metal on a budget! The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 Satin Black is an outstanding choice for anyone looking for an affordable electric guitar with great performance capabilities.
Pros
- 24 Frets
- Compound Radius Neck
- Solid construction and appealing design
Cons
- May require initial adjustments and setup
- Budget pickups
The JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 Satin Black is a testament to Jackson’s commitment to providing high-quality electric guitars at an affordable price. With its sleek satin black finish and arched basswood body, this guitar is not only visually appealing but also offers an enjoyable playing experience.
The bound amaranth fingerboard and maple neck make for a comfortable and smooth playing surface. And perfectly paired Jackson High-Output humbucking pickups provide diverse tonal options, making it perfect for rock and heavy metal genres.
The arched top bolted to a 12″-16″ compound radius flattens the neck as you move up, making insanely fast legatos and bends super easy and fun.
Additionally, the tremolo bridge system clearly opens up a lot of possibilities in the sound department.
While professionals may opt for higher-end models, this guitar is undeniably a fantastic value for money and a reliable instrument for various music styles.
WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar
This WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar offers a great value for enthusiasts looking to explore jazz and blues styles on a budget.
Pros
- High-quality alnico humbucker pickups
- Rounded end Medium Jumbo Frets
- Bone nut
Cons
- Some inconsistency in construction and quality control
- Potential issues with pickup selector switch
The WestCreek 333 Electric Guitar is an attractive option for those seeking to expand their musical horizons.
Its semi-hollow body design produces a warm jazz tone, while the alnico humbucker pickups provide a rich sound capable of handling blues and rock styles as well.
The slim C-shaped neck, offers a comfortable playing experience for different hand sizes and playing styles.
However, as with many guitars in this price range, there can be some inconsistencies in construction and quality control.
Some users have reported issues with the pickup selector switch, leading to questionable reliability of the guitar’s electronics. Additionally, the longevity of this instrument may be a concern, as the long-term durability and dependability of budget guitars can vary.
With its versatile sound and comfortable neck design, this guitar is a solid choice for those on a budget. Just be prepared for some potential issues with quality control and longevity.
Our Verdict
We recommend Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC12 as the best overall package that’ll should meet almost every budget electric guitar seekers requirements.
We’ve examined various guitar models that have been available for some time and have garnered positive feedback from previous customers over the years.
In the end, selecting the best electric guitar under $300 is a matter of personal preference. It’s important to carefully assess each of these guitars, including reading customer reviews and watching sound testing videos, before you make your ultimate decision.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best electric guitar under $300, there are certain factors you need to consider in order to make an informed decision. In this friendly buying guide, we will discuss key features to look for that will help you choose the perfect guitar for your needs.
Pickups
Electric Guitars under $300 will typically come in combination of single coil and humbucker pickups.
Though choice of pickups certainly affect the output in a Guitar, the sound you get is also affected by the Amp that you’ve plugged in.
Simply put, just because you have a single coil Fender Squier doesn’t mean you can’t rock. Of course, humbucker pickups will offer a much thick and punchier sound need for metal gods. Consider your preferred music genre to determine which pickup type best suits your style.
Wood and Construction
Manufacturers choose wood for the body, neck, and fingerboard of an electric guitar based on a combination of factors, including tonal characteristics, playability, aesthetics, and cost.
The choice for body range from Alder, Poplar, Mahogany and Basswood. For neck and fingerboard the choice wood is mainly Maple, Rosewood, Mahogany, Jatoba and more.
For beginners we think the choice should depend on budget and music genre. For example, Jackson JS 22 is a better choice over a Fender Squier for those into hard rock and metal.
Additional Features
Some electric guitars come with additional features. Here are a few to consider:
- Pickup Configuration: The typical configuration would be a combination of single-coil and humbuckers that offer customer’s choice of tonal variety needed to match their style.
- Tremolo system: This allows you to create vibrato effects or pitch bends by manipulating the bridge. A well-designed tremolo system can add versatility to your playing without affecting tuning stability.
- Locking tuners: These help maintain tuning stability, especially if you use a tremolo system or bend strings frequently. Hard to find in budget electric guitars though.
By keeping these features in mind, you can find the best electric guitar under $300 that fits your playing style, offers great value for money, and enhances your overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best pickup configuration for beginner guitarists?
As a beginner, you may prefer a guitar with a versatile pickup configuration that allows you to explore different tones. Generally, a guitar with a combination of single-coil and humbucker pickups is a good choice. For example, an S-S-H or H-S-S configuration would give you a wide variety of tones to discover your preferred sound.
How much will a guitar setup cost?
The cost of a guitar setup can vary depending on where you live and the complexity of the work required. On average, a basic setup may cost between $50 and $100. It’s essential to invest in a proper setup to ensure your guitar plays comfortably and stays in tune. It will not only make learning more enjoyable but also help you progress faster.
What type of amp should I buy for practicing guitar indoors?
When practicing indoors, it’s essential to find an amp that offers great tone at lower volumes. Consider amplifiers designed specifically for practice, such as those with lower wattages (10-20 watts) or built-in headphone outputs. Amps with modeling technology can also be a great option, as they often provide a wide range of tones and sound options, allowing you to experiment and find your preferred style.
Can I use budget guitar for live performance?
Yes, budget guitars can certainly be used for live performances, but there are some factors to consider. Ensure that the guitar is comfortable to play, stays in tune well, and has a good overall sound quality. Additionally, investing in a proper setup may significantly improve the playability and sound. As you gain experience and develop your style, you may find it worthwhile to eventually upgrade to a higher-quality guitar that better suits your needs.
