Best Budget Electric Guitars for Beginners (2024)

Electric guitars have been a staple in music for decades, and for good reason. They offer a unique sound and versatility that is hard to match with any other instrument. However, finding a high-quality electric guitar that won’t break the bank can be a challenge. That’s where budget electric guitars come in.

Budget electric guitars are designed to offer an affordable option for beginners or those on a tight budget. While they may not have all the bells and whistles of a high-end guitar, they can still provide a great sound and playability. When searching for the best budget electric guitar, there are a few critical factors to consider.

One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a budget electric guitar is the quality of the materials used. Cheaper guitars may use lower quality wood or hardware, which can affect the overall sound and playability. Another factor to consider is the type of pickups used. Single-coil pickups offer a brighter, more twangy sound, while humbucker pickups provide a warmer, fuller tone.

At our publication, we spent hours researching and testing various budget electric guitars to identify the ones that offer the best value for your money. In this article, we’ll be sharing our top picks for the best budget electric guitars on the market. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, we’ve got you covered.

Best Budget Electric Guitars

We understand that not everyone has the budget to splurge on a high-end electric guitar. However, that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. In fact, there are plenty of affordable options out there that offer great sound and playability. To help you find the best budget electric guitar for your needs, we’ve put together a list of our top picks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, these guitars are sure to impress without breaking the bank.

Leo Jaymz Electric Guitar Tempest Series – Mahogany Body and Maple Veener,Maple Neck and Rosewood Fingerboard,Alnico V active Pickups,Wilkinson 2-point Temolo Bridge (Blue Flame)

We’ve had some experience with the Leo Jaymz Electric Guitar Tempest Series, and we think it’s a decent budget electric guitar. The guitar has a unique look with its exquisite Maple veneer and mahogany body, and the headstock also has Maple veneer, making it stand out from other budget electric guitars. The Leo Jaymz TE-27/49 Alnico V Active Pickups are powerful and pure, and the guitar is equipped with a Wilkinson WOV10 2-Point Tremolo Bridge, which is a nice touch for a budget guitar.

The fingerboard has a unique inlay with a radius of 14″, and the guitar has 24 frets, which is a nice feature for a budget electric guitar. However, we did find that the guitar’s power is relatively small when used without installing a battery, so keep that in mind if you’re planning on using it without a battery. Additionally, we noticed some issues with the nut not being straight and the high E and B strings laying on the first and second frets, which can be a bit frustrating.

Overall, we think the Leo Jaymz Electric Guitar Tempest Series is a decent budget electric guitar with some unique features. However, it’s not without its flaws, so make sure to consider those before making a purchase.

Donner DST-200 Electric Guitar

The Donner DST-200 Electric Guitar is a great choice for players who want a guitar that not only looks good but also sounds great. The guitar’s H-S-S pickups with coil split system provide a wide range of sonic variety, allowing you to create different tones for different genres. The vintage-style tuning machine and tremolo bridge give the guitar a classic look while providing maximum tuning stability and modern playability. The C-shaped neck profile with built-in neck stiffener and AAA Canada maple neck made in satin finish is smooth and durable, making it easy and comfortable to play.

However, the guitar’s body is made of poplar wood, which may not be as durable as other types of wood. The purpleheart fretboard may be difficult to maintain and clean. Additionally, the guitar bag that comes with the package may not be of high quality. Overall, the Donner DST-200 Electric Guitar is a great choice for players who want a budget-friendly electric guitar with advanced features and stylish finishes.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a budget electric guitar, there are a few key features to consider to ensure that you get the best value for your money. We’ve put together a list of things to look out for when making your purchase.

Body and Neck

The body and neck of an electric guitar are crucial to its sound and playability. Look for guitars with solid wood bodies, as they tend to produce a warmer and richer tone. Additionally, the neck should be comfortable to hold and play, with a smooth finish and good fretwork.

Pickups

Pickups are responsible for converting the vibrations of the strings into an electrical signal that can be amplified. Single-coil pickups tend to produce a brighter and clearer sound, while humbuckers offer a thicker and more powerful tone. Consider the type of music you’ll be playing and choose pickups that suit your style.

Hardware

The hardware of an electric guitar includes the bridge, tuners, and other components that affect its tuning stability and overall performance. Look for guitars with high-quality hardware that will stay in tune and withstand regular use.

Extras

Many budget electric guitars come with additional features such as built-in effects, adjustable bridges, and locking tuners. While these extras can be useful, be sure to prioritize the core features of the guitar before considering any additional bells and whistles.

By keeping these factors in mind, you’ll be able to choose the best budget electric guitar for your needs.