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So you’re thinking about getting an electric guitar? But, you’re stuck on one burning question: how much does one of these bad boys cost?
Electric guitars aren’t a one-size-fits-all deal. They range in shapes, sizes, and price tags. From those basic, beginner-friendly ones to the top-notch, professional gear.
They come with different hardware options and are normally focused on specific music styles. Whatever it is that you’re looking for, there is sure to be a guitar for you! But how much are electric guitars, and what should you get?
In this Killer Rig article, I’ll break down the costs of electric guitars. Then, you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next axe.
Price Guide Summary
To sum up the price of electric guitars quickly, here is what you can expect:
- Low end guitars will cost $100 and under.
- Beginner guitars will range from $170 to $500.
- Intermediate electric guitars cost between $500 and $1000.
- Premium models are normally $1000 to $2500.
- Professional and Signature series electric guitars are $2500 and over.
How Much Are Electric Guitars?
The price tag on an electric guitar can swing widely! As a ballpark figure, anticipate spending between $100 and $800 for a basic model. But if you want a more premium version, you might have to spend a thousand or more dollars.
Those less costly options might not boast top-tier parts, affecting both the sound and the playability. On the flip side, those premium guitars often showcase fine, custom details and superior craftsmanship.
So when you’re in the market for an electric guitar, it’s key to mull over what you specifically need and can afford.
Entry-Level Electric Guitars
Entry-level electric guitars are an excellent option for those getting into playing! Whether as a beginner or as someone on a tight budget.
They have less expensive materials and fewer features than pricier models. But, despite this, they can still offer a great playing experience. And they are more than suitable for learning the basics of guitar playing.
The average price for an entry-level electric guitar is around $160 to $600. In this price range, you will discover guitars that are well-built and quite easy to play.
Plus, they have good quality sound! These guitars are normally made in China or Indonesia and have very basic components and hardware. But they are generally pretty good for the cost.
Click here to find the best electric guitars under $500 today!
Popular Entry-level Electric Guitars
The pickups, hardware, and electronics are of lower quality compared to more expensive models. This helps the guitar brand in keeping the price down. Lower-end pickups are frequently found on these guitars.
This implies that while the sound is good, it isn’t fantastic. You will also find less expensive hardware. Things like tuners or bridges are not as durable or robust. Additionally, the electronics in these guitars may be simpler and less versatile.
Especially when compared to those found in more expensive models. This does not, however, imply that the sound quality is subpar! The sound quality is perfectly acceptable for the price range and someone who is just starting to play the guitar.
Here are a few guitars you should consider at this price point.
| Squier Bullet Strat HT | $199.00 | The Squier Bullet is a solid option for beginners. It has a maple neck and single-coil pickups. This is great for those looking to learn the basics of guitar playing. |
| Epiphone Les Paul Special | $200.00 | The Epiphone Les Paul Special offers a classic look and feel. It’s a great option for those wanting to learn on a guitar similar to a Gibson Les Paul. |
| Yamaha Pacifica 112V | $310.00 | The Yamaha Pacifica is a versatile option that offers a comfortable playing experience. It features a solid alder body and maple neck. A good range of tonal options. |
| Ibanez RG450DX | $450.00 | The RG450DX is a rock and metal guitar made for shredding. It has a tremolo bridge, two humbuckers and a 5 way switch for big tonal range. |
| Epiphone SG Standard | $500.00 | The SG is a rock and roll machine! This version comes with two humbuckers and the classic look and feel you would expect. |
Check out this video to see how guitars at this price sound and feel.
Mid-Level Electric Guitars
Mid-level electric guitars are a great choice. Especially for those looking to take their playing to the next level! Or even for players wanting more features than entry-level models.
Generally priced between $500 and $1000, these guitars are made with higher-quality materials and are a great choice for intermediate players.
They often have more features than entry-level models. And without being as expensive as high-end options.
They are more than suitable for the developing player and tend to have better hardware and construction. Improved sound and playability are also a huge result of this!
Check out the best electric guitars for under $1000 here!
Popular Mid-level Electric Guitars
In mid-level electric guitars, the cost of pickups, hardware, and electronics are typically higher. Especially over entry-level models! But not as expensive as high-end models. These guitars often feature higher-end pickups.
The sound is better, which could mean better articulation. More expensive hardware also means more durable tuners or bridges! Better tuning performance is normally a result. Additionally, the electronics in these guitars may be more versatile and complex.
You will find that the potential for better controls is more than possible. Especially when comparing those found in entry-level models. But they will not be as advanced as those in high-end models.
Here are the guitars I would suggest you check out if this is the price point you are comfortable with:
| Fender Player Telecaster | $850.00 | The Fender Player Telecaster offers a classic look and feel! It’s a great option for those looking for a versatile guitar. It features an alder body, maple neck and single-coil pickups. |
| Ibanez RG7320EX | $750.00 | The Ibanez RGRG7320EX is a 7-string guitar. It has a Meranti body, maple neck and humbucker pickups. |
| PRS SE Custom 24 | $950.00 | The quality of the PRS SE custom 24 in sund and feel is hard to beat. Plus, the range of sounds is very broad. |
| Gibson Les Paul Tribute | $1300.00 | The Gibson Les Paul tribute is a rock machine. It has a mahogany body, maple neck and two humbuckers. They are warm and brilliant! |
High-End Electric Guitars
High-end electric guitars are the ideal option for professional players. Guitarists that are looking for the best quality and craftsmanship in their instrument. These electric guitars typically range from $1200 to upwards of $10,000 or more.
Made with the highest-quality materials, these instruments offer the most advanced features and playability! This often makes them considered works of art.
You can also find guitars that are hand-crafted. They are made with the highest-quality materials! And they often come with advanced features and specifications. These are an amazing investment to a player who wants the best quality available.
Popular High-end Electric Guitars
The cost of pickups, hardware, and electronics in these electric guitars are typically the highest. These guitars often feature the most advanced pickups. Custom wound pickups that have the best sound possible!
The most expensive hardware, such as gold-plated or hand-engraved tuners or bridges. These are components that have amazing performance. They will hold tune like no other! Additionally, the electronics in these guitars may be the most advanced and versatile!
You might find active electronics, coil-splitting, and more. The craftsmanship, wood selection, and custom options all come into play in the guitar price.
Here are some guitars found in the price range that you should consider for the best sound, feel, and experience:
| Fender American Pro II Stratocaster | $1750.00 | This Fender guitar comes with top of the line pickups and materials. The hardware is pro quality and the feel is like no other. |
| PRS S2 Custom 24 | $1950.00 | The quality of the hardware and details to the body are incredible. The neck is thin and easy to play and the sound will wow you like no other! |
| Gibson Les Paul Standard | $3000.00 | The Gibson Custom Shop offers great high-end electric guitars! This Les paul Standard is testament to that. If you can afford it, this is the guitar you have been waiting for! |
Check out these guitars with active pickups!
Cost of Other Popular Electric Guitars
The prices for the more popular electric guitars are approximate and may vary depending on the model, location, and availability. This table will provide some pricing on some of the more popular models today!
| Guitar Model | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Fender Stratocaster | $600 – $2000 |
| Gibson Les Paul | $1000 – $4000 |
| Ibanez RG | $500 – $1000 |
| PRS SE | $500 – $1000 |
| Jackson Soloist | $1000 – $2000 |
| ESP Eclipse | $1000 – $2000 |
| Gretsch G5420T | $800 – $1000 |
| Dean ML | $600 – $1000 |
| Rickenbacker 330 | $2000 – $3000 |
| Charvel San Dimas | $800 – $1000 |
It’s important to remember that some electric guitars are like keys, each designed to unlock a specific kind of music. Maybe it’s the headbanging tunes of metal, the gritty notes of rock, or the soulful strains of blues.
So do your homework. Hunt down that guitar that jives just right with your rhythm, the one that feels like an extension of your own self when you’re lost in the music.
Factors That Affect Pricing
The price of an electric guitar can be affected by a variety of factors! Here you will find the most common reasons and why they matter.
Location of Production
The location of production can have a significant impact on the price of an electric guitar. Instruments made in the United States or Europe cost more.
Especially when compared to those mass-produced in other countries, such as China or Indonesia. This is due to the higher labor and material costs associated with manufacturing in these countries.
Tonewood
The type of wood used in the construction of an electric guitar can also affect the price. Instruments made from premium woods such as mahogany, maple, and koa are typically more expensive.
More so than those made from less expensive woods like basswood or alder. The tonewood used in guitar construction also affects the sound, weight, and look of the instrument.
Pickups
Pickups can make or break a guitar. They’re like the heart of the beast, pumping out all the sounds you’ll ever want. Some pickups, they’re top-notch, top-shelf, and top-dollar. The likes of Seymour Duncan or DiMarzio, they’re in this league.
Quality? Top-tier. Price tag? Well, that can be hefty. But, hey, on the other end of the spectrum, you have some more modest options. The cost comes down, but so does the sound quality. It’s a balancing act! High-end or budget-friendly, the choice is yours to make.
Hardware
It’s important to note that the hardware used in an electric guitar also plays a role. Items like the bridge, tuning keys, and knobs.
Generally speaking, guitars with top-notch hardware are just more expensive. Hardware brands like Gotoh or Schaller tend to be pricier than lower-quality components.
Electronics
The electronics used in an electric guitar can’t be overlooked. Items, such as a preamp and potentiometers, can also affect the price.
Guitars with high-quality electronics, like those made by Lace, or Seymour Duncan, are typically more expensive. But the performance is also light years better!
Brand Reputation
The make and brand of an electric guitar can also have a say in its price. Guitars made by well-established and respected manufacturers.
Builders like Fender or Gibson are usually more expensive. Especially those created by lesser-known brands. This is because the manufacturer’s standing and brand name can impact the perceived value of the guitar.
Year of Manufacture
The year the guitar was built is also important. Vintage guitars, those that were built decades ago, can be quite expensive! This is due to their rarity and historical significance. While, guitars that are recent production may be less expensive.
Supply and Availability
The number of guitars produced and how long they were available. This has a way of influencing the cost. And it makes sense when something is rare. Guitars that were produced in limited numbers or for a short period of time can be more expensive.
This is due to that rarity. On the other hand, guitars that were produced in large quantities or for a long period of time will be less expensive.
Construction
The construction of an electric guitar can also affect the price. Instruments with more intricate designs and features. Such as carved tops or inlaid fretboards, for example. They are typically more expensive than those with simpler designs.
Strategic Pricing
Different brands have different pricing strategies. Some brands are known for their affordable options, while others are known for their high-end gear. Other brands use the higher prices to create the allure of a premium product.
It’s worth checking different brands and comparing the prices and features to get the best value for your money.
Take our guitar buying quiz to find your next instrument!
How Much Should You Spend on an Electric Guitar?
When it comes to buying an electric guitar, the decision of how much you should spend can be a difficult one.
It’s not as easy as picking a number out of thin air. Your expertise, your musical taste, and the biggie, your budget, all matter. Don’t forget to weigh these things in before settling on your ideal electric guitar.
Beginners might want to go for an entry-level guitar. These models, typically in the ballpark of $200 to $500, are solidly built, but their features are more basic. They’re a nifty starting block, a no-frills way to strum those first chords without breaking the bank on pricier gear.
As your fingers become more nimble and your tunes smoother, you might eye up a better instrument. Many hover around a grand. They pack some neat tricks, like upgraded pickups and hardware. The music you can produce? Noticeably richer. A superb choice for those strumming beyond the basics.
But why rush to buy a top-tier guitar? See if you’ve got the guitar bug first. If you’re smitten, if you can’t stop plucking those strings, then think about splashing out.
If you can swing for a high-end model, don’t hesitate! The more superior the guitar, the deeper the love for your music will grow. And that feeling? Simply priceless!
Conclusion
Electric guitars have some pretty crazy price ranges. As I’m sure you have noted, you can spend as much or as little as you want and still end up with a great instrument! Just stick with well known brands and see what people are staying about them.
Then make sure it will play the type of music you like. If it can, then your set! That’s the only real hurdle besides your budget. But if you can afford something expensive, make sure it will satisfy your style.
FAQs
Is a $100 electric guitar worth it?
Think of it like this: you’re a novice, eager to strum your first tune. A flashy guitar with a $100 price tag catches your eye. It’s tempting, isn’t it? But hang on, there’s a catch. The old saying rings true: “You get what you pay for.”
Now, let’s talk guitars. Lower-priced ones, while appealing to your wallet, often skimp on quality. They may come with components that wear out too quickly, or worse, hamper your journey to master the chords. Durability and ease of play? Might be a bit dicey with these budget buys.
So, what’s the smart move for a budding guitarist like you? Loosen those purse strings a bit more. Consider a guitar that falls within the $160 to $500 bracket. This isn’t about splurging, no. It’s about investing.
An investment that ensures your guitar withstands the test of time, and your practice sessions become a joy, not a struggle. And hey, the tunes sound better too. Trust me on this one.
Is a $500 dollar guitar good?
Sometimes you can’t judge a book by its cover. Nor a guitar by its price tag. For just a modest sum of $500, you might stumble upon a musical gem. Of course, it all boils down to a trio of crucial factors: the make, model, and craftsmanship.
Now, you won’t be strumming on some fancy, top-of-the-line piece of gear. But you’re not exactly plucking at a low-end bargain bin find either. A $500 guitar nestles comfortably in the middle ground. We’re talking intermediate territory here.
And, the good news? This mid-range arena tends to deliver a substantial leap in the quality of playability. A far cry from the cheaper, harder to handle alternatives that could leave your fingers in a twist.
Then there’s the sound. It’s a symphony to your ears compared to the jarring, tinny output of less expensive models. A $500 guitar won’t let you down, it’s a step towards melodious resonance.
And that, in a nutshell, is why a $500 guitar can be more than just ‘good’. It can be your trusted companion on the path to musical mastery.
Are expensive guitars harder to play?
Guitars with a heftier price tag aren’t always more challenging to handle. Yet, often, their superior parts and the skill used to put them together can elevate how they feel to play and the music they make.
Still, let’s not forget, the ease of strumming a guitar rests in the hands of the player, shaped by their likes and the experience they bring.
Is $1000 too much for guitar?
While you may gasp at the thought of dropping a cool grand on a guitar, the price tag isn’t as steep as you’d imagine in the world of top-notch instruments. Some of these high-flyers could make your wallet a few thousand dollars lighter!
But remember, it’s not all about the glitz and glamour. You’ve got to take a step back, consider what you really need from your guitar, and how it lines up with your budget. After all, music to your ears shouldn’t be a punch in the gut to your finances.
