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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.
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:
| Guitar | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 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:
| Guitar | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 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:
| Guitar | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 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.
Take our guitar buying quiz to find your next instrument!
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 $500 dollar guitar good?
For around $500, you can find a guitar that’s a real treasure. The key factors to consider are the brand, model, and how well it’s made.
With a $500 budget, you’re looking at a mid-range guitar. These aren’t high-end instruments, but they’re definitely a step up from the basic, entry-level models. They fall into an intermediate category, offering a balance of quality and affordability.
One of the benefits of guitars in this price range is improved playability. They generally offer a better experience than the cheaper options, which can be more challenging and uncomfortable to play.
In terms of sound, a $500 guitar typically offers a richer, more pleasing tone compared to lower-priced guitars, which often have a harsher, less refined sound.
Is $1000 too much for a guitar?
Spending $1,000 on a guitar might seem like a lot, but in the realm of high-quality instruments, this is actually on the more reasonable side. Many top-tier guitars can cost several thousand dollars.
However, it’s important to remember that buying a guitar isn’t just about picking the most expensive or glamorous one.
Consider what you actually need in a guitar and how it fits within your budget. The goal is to find a guitar that sounds great to you without causing undue financial strain.
