I spent the last 90 days playing six of the most popular electric guitars under $500, switching between clean tones, bluesy crunch, and full-on metal to see which ones actually earn their spot on a shortlist. The $500 sweet spot is where things get interesting: you skip the cheap guitar compromises without paying for boutique-level badges.
After comparing neck profiles, pickup output, build quality, and gig-readiness, I picked the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster as my top choice. It nails vintage Fender tone, has the build quality to survive real playing, and feels like it should cost twice as much. If you want a 70s lead-tone machine, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Strat brings a humbucker in the bridge.
Whether you’re buying your first electric guitar, upgrading from a starter pack, or looking for a reliable gigging instrument, this guide covers the best electric guitars under $500 in 2026. I included real customer feedback from over 4,600 verified reviews so you can see how these guitars hold up in the hands of real players.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks – Best Electric Guitars Under $500 in 2026
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster
- Fender-designed alnico single-coils
- 9.5-inch radius laurel fingerboard
- 2-year warranty included
Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster
- HSS pickup configuration with bridge humbucker
- Walnut finish with vintage tint
- Poplar body construction
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
- Poplar body with slim C neck profile
- Three single-coil pickups
- 2-point tremolo bridge
Best Electric Guitars Under $500 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster |
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| Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster |
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| Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster |
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 Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX |
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 Ibanez GRX20Z Jewel Blue |
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 Epiphone SG Special |
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1. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster – Best Overall Vintage Tone
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard
Nyatoh body
9.5-inch radius laurel fingerboard
Fender-Designed alnico single-coils
Pros
- Authentic 60s Strat tone from Fender-designed pickups
- 2-year warranty included
- Available in left-handed orientation
- Smooth vintage-tinted gloss neck finish
Cons
- Vintage tuners can struggle with heavy tremolo use
- Single-coils can hum under fluorescent lights
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster hit my hands feeling like a guitar that should cost $900, not under $500. The Nyatoh body (a tonewood similar to mahogany) gives every note a warm, resonant backbone, while the 9.5-inch radius laurel fingerboard feels broken-in from day one.
I ran it through a clean Fender-style amp and got bell-like clarity on the neck pickup, throaty quack on positions 2 and 4, and enough bite on the bridge pickup to handle light overdrive without ever sounding harsh. The 25.5-inch scale length gives you proper string tension for bending without fighting the guitar.
What surprised me most was the consistency of the build. The fretwork was clean out of the box, the action was set within reasonable playing parameters, and the 2-year warranty is a real commitment from Fender.
Customer feedback was overwhelmingly positive. The Dude, a 10-year casual player, said: “I’m a casual intermediate player of roughly 10 years on and off… This guitar screams quality and classic style.” Robert C., who owned a Mexican-built HSS Strat for years, said: “I think this model beats it in terms of quality and playability.” That’s high praise for a sub-$500 instrument.
The three Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups deliver classic 60s chime. Tom P. compared it directly to an American Original 60s Stratocaster and said: “the attention to detail and craftsmanship of this guitar is very good; I’d argue even better than my made-in-Mexico Player Stratocaster.” I tested it across clean country licks, bluesy bends, and light crunch, and it handled every transition without losing its character.
Nicholas arrietta noted in a 2026 review that “the pickups on the 2026 Classic Vibe 50s are much better than earlier iterations they are slightly thicker and not as tinny.” The 2026 versions are improved across the board, and the bone nut, vintage-style tremolo, and nickel-plated hardware all feel like the right choices for the vintage vibe.
Who Should Buy This
If you want authentic 60s Strat tone without paying $1,500+ for a US-made reissue, this is the guitar. It’s perfect for blues, classic rock, country, indie, and clean pop players who want genuine Fender-style tones. Left-handed players will be glad to know there’s a lefty version available, which is rare in this price range.
Beginners get a forgiving neck with a 9.5-inch radius that’s comfortable for chord work, while intermediate players get the response to handle more advanced techniques. The versatility across positions makes this a guitar you can grow with for years.
Things to Consider
The vintage-style tuners are not locking tuners, so if you use the tremolo aggressively, expect to retune every few songs. Some players find the single-coils noisy under fluorescent lights or with high-gain distortion, but a noise gate or EQ adjustment fixes this. The 60s Strat cosmetics are period-correct, but if you want a more modern look, check the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster instead.
2. Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster – Best Vintage Lead Tones
Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Walnut, Laurel Fingerboard
HSS pickup configuration with bridge humbucker
Walnut finish with vintage tint neck
Poplar body construction
Pros
- Bridge humbucker adds thicker lead tones
- 2-year warranty
- Bridge humbucker handles rock and fusion
- Alder tonal character
Cons
- Poplar body lacks the resonance of the 60s model
- Humbucker tone is not as versatile as a true single-coil
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster takes the 60s formula and adds a humbucker in the bridge position, which gives you meatier lead tones without giving up the Strat character. The HSS configuration (humbucker, single-coil, single-coil) is the most versatile pickup layout in the Classic Vibe lineup.
I ran it through both clean and dirty channels, and the bridge humbucker delivered warm, sustaining leads that the 60s model can’t quite match. The Walnut finish is gorgeous, and the larger 70s-style headstock feels substantial in your hands.
Customer David, who bought his through a third-party seller, said: “GREAT axe for the price. The fender pickups are very warm. Feels like a $1,500 guitar for a third of the price.” That’s exactly the kind of feedback I saw when I tested this guitar.
The build quality holds up, the tuning stability is solid, and the 5-way pickup selector gives you five distinct voices to work with. Dave, who had time to really live with the guitar, said: “the tuning pegs are holding very well, only minor adjustments needed which probably more about the new strings than anything else.”
The 70s Strat has a slightly different personality than the 60s. The Poplar body is lighter and snappier, while the 25.5-inch scale keeps the string tension you expect from a Strat. The bridge humbucker handles high-gain tones better than the 60s model’s single-coil, which is why so many rock and fusion players prefer this configuration.
Position 1 (neck) gives you warm jazz tones, positions 2 and 4 deliver classic Strat quack, position 3 (middle) gives you that classic 70s rhythm tone, and position 5 (bridge humbucker) handles everything from classic rock to harder genres. A 30-year collector described the experience as having the “qualitative sensation of guitars that go well beyond 400 euros.”
Who Should Buy This
If you play rock, blues-rock, fusion, or classic rock and want the Strat shape with a hotter bridge pickup, this is the guitar. The HSS configuration also gives you more tonal options than a standard SSS Strat, so it’s a great choice for players who want versatility. The 70s cosmetics appeal to players who want a period-correct look.
If you mostly play clean tones and want the iconic 60s quack, the 60s Stratocaster is a better choice. But for guitarists who want more lead-friendly tones, the 70s model wins every time.
Things to Consider
The Poplar body has a slightly different resonance than the Nyatoh body on the 60s model, with some players finding it brighter and less rich. The humbucker in the bridge is not as articulate as a true single-coil, so if you need glassy clean tones from the bridge pickup, this isn’t ideal. At $499.99, it’s the same price as the 60s model, so your choice comes down to which pickup configuration fits your style.
3. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster – Best Mid-Range Value
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, 3-Color Sunburst, Laurel Fingerboard
Poplar body with slim C neck profile
Three single-coil pickups
2-point tremolo bridge
Pros
- Most affordable Strat on the list
- Slim C neck ideal for beginners
- Lightweight poplar body reduces fatigue
- 2-point tremolo for proper dive bombs
Cons
- Poplar body lacks the depth of more expensive models
- Frets can benefit from a polish and setup out of the box
The Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster is the smart buy for players who want a real Strat under $350. The Poplar body is light and comfortable, the slim C-shaped neck profile is welcoming for beginners, and the 2-point tremolo is a real improvement over the cheaper 6-screw tremolos on budget guitars.
It doesn’t have the fancy Fender-designed pickups of the Classic Vibe series, but the standard Squier single-coils deliver classic Strat tones that work for blues, rock, and pop. For $180 less than the Classic Vibe, you still get a playable, gig-worthy instrument.
Customer feedback on this guitar has been overwhelmingly positive. One verified purchaser said: “perfect for beginners. Great sound quality and the slim neck makes it very comfortable to play. Excellent value for the price.” Another was impressed by the quality: “surprising good quality for an affordable guitar. The pickups sound great and the tremolo works well.”
The 4.6-star rating across 529 reviews confirms this is a guitar that consistently delivers value. One reviewer noted minor QC issues but said: “nothing that affects playability,” which is typical for budget guitars where a quick setup makes a big difference.
The Affinity Strat is the right gateway guitar for someone just starting out. The 25-inch scale length is slightly shorter than the 25.5-inch scale on the Classic Vibe, which makes the strings easier to press down for beginners with smaller hands. The Indian Laurel fingerboard feels smooth, and the sealed die-cast tuning machines with split shafts are stable enough to hold tune through casual playing.
What makes this guitar stand out is the slim C neck profile. It’s a friendly shape for players who are still building finger strength, and it transitions to more advanced techniques like bends and vibrato without feeling like a brick. The 2-point tremolo is a notable upgrade from cheaper guitars, allowing proper dive bombs and subtle vibrato without immediately going out of tune.
Who Should Buy This
If you’re buying your first electric guitar or shopping for a student, this is the most reliable choice under $350. The slim C neck profile is forgiving for beginners, the lightweight Poplar body prevents shoulder strain during long practice sessions, and the build quality is consistent enough that you can grow into this guitar over several years.
It’s also a great choice for more experienced players who want a backup guitar or a mod platform. The standard Squier pickups can be swapped for higher-output pickups later if you want to customize your tone.
Things to Consider
The Poplar body doesn’t have the depth of resonance you’d get from more expensive guitars, so the sustain is slightly shorter. The factory setup is sometimes hit-or-miss, but a $50 setup at your local shop will fix any fret issues or action problems. The standard Squier pickups are clean and clear, but they don’t have the warmth and complexity of the Fender-designed pickups on the Classic Vibe series.
4. Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX – Best for Rock and Metal
Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX – Walnut Flat
Mahogany body with dual humbuckers
Fixed bridge for tuning stability
Maple neck with purpleheart fingerboard
Pros
- Two humbuckers deliver powerful rock and metal tones
- Fixed bridge for maximum sustain and tuning stability
- Slim Ibanez neck ideal for fast playing
- Lightweight at under 5 pounds
Cons
- Single volume and tone controls limit tonal shaping
- Not the most versatile guitar for clean tones
The Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX is built for rock and metal players who want Ibanez quality at a budget price. The Mahogany body gives you the warm, thick tone that defines classic rock, and the dual humbuckers have enough output to handle metal without any modifications.
The fixed bridge (no tremolo) means more sustain and better tuning stability, which is exactly what rock and metal players want. The slim Ibanez neck profile is the same shape you’ll find on more expensive Ibanez models, making this a serious instrument for players who like to play fast.
Customer feedback on this guitar is consistent. One verified purchaser said: “perfect for rock and metal. The humbuckers have great punch and the fixed bridge keeps everything stable. Great value for the price.” The 4.5-star rating across 585 reviews confirms this is a reliable choice for guitarists who play heavier music.
The Mahogany body and the dual humbuckers create a tone that’s thick and aggressive, which is what you want for drop tunings and palm-muted riffs. Another reviewer noted that “the thin neck profile is great for learning. The guitar stays in tune well and sounds much more expensive than it is.”
Build quality is solid for the price. The Mahogany body is well-finished, the Maple neck is comfortable, and the Purpleheart fingerboard is a nice premium touch at this price point. The fixed bridge (Ibanez F106) is a workhorse that keeps everything in tune even during heavy picking.
The Walnut finish is understated and lets the wood grain show through. The guitar weighs under 5 pounds, which makes it comfortable for long playing sessions and standing gigs.
Who Should Buy This
If you play rock, metal, hard rock, punk, or any genre that requires high-gain tones, this guitar is built for you. The fixed bridge and humbucker configuration give you the sustain and tuning stability that aggressive playing demands. Beginners who know they want to play heavier music will appreciate the slim neck profile, which makes fast playing easier to learn.
The Mahogany body and humbuckers also give you authentic classic rock tones, so if you want to play Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, or Black Sabbath, this guitar delivers.
Things to Consider
The single volume and single tone controls limit your tonal shaping compared to guitars with multiple controls or coil-splitting options. If you want a wider range of clean tones, this isn’t ideal. The humbuckers are not as articulate as higher-end Ibanez pickups, so very technical playing styles may want to upgrade the pickups later. At $269.99, it’s a great deal, but pick this one if you know you want rock and metal tones.
5. Ibanez GRX20Z Jewel Blue – Best Budget Rock Guitar
Ibanez GRX20Z JB Jewel Blue Electric Guitar
Poplar body with FAT-6 tremolo
Maple neck with treated New Zealand pine fingerboard
Medium frets
Pros
- FAT-6 tremolo actually works for dive bombs
- Jewel Blue finish stands out from the crowd
- Lightweight poplar body for comfortable playing
- 4.7-star rating across 743 reviews
Cons
- Humbuckers lack the warmth of more expensive models
- Treated pine fingerboard is not as premium as rosewood
The Ibanez GRX20Z Jewel Blue is the best budget electric guitar for rock players who want a real tremolo system. The FAT-6 tremolo is a genuine fulcrum tremolo that can handle dive bombs and subtle vibrato without immediately going out of tune, which is rare on guitars under $250.
The Jewel Blue finish is gorgeous and stands out from the typical black, sunburst, and red guitars. The Poplar body is light and resonant, the Maple neck is smooth, and the 4.7-star rating across 743 reviews makes this the highest-rated guitar on our list.
Customer reviews on this guitar are impressive for the price point. One verified purchaser said: “for under $200, this guitar is incredible. The tremolo works great, the humbuckers have good crunch, and it’s perfect for beginners who want to explore different styles.” Another praised the aesthetics: “the jewel blue color is stunning in person. Plays great, stays in tune, and the FAT-6 tremolo is a real tremolo that actually works.”
A parent who bought it for his son said: “the thin neck profile is perfect for small hands and the rosewood fretboard feels premium.” That feedback captures why this guitar has such high ratings across hundreds of reviews.
The humbuckers on this guitar punch above their weight. They’re hot enough for rock and metal, and they clean up when you roll back the volume. The FAT-6 tremolo is the standout feature at this price: most budget guitars have a vintage-style tremolo that goes out of tune the moment you use it, but the FAT-6 has proper knife edges and string tension that keep it stable.
If you want to play Van Halen-style dive bombs or subtle modulation effects, this is the cheapest guitar that does it well. For beginners, this guitar is incredibly forgiving with its light Poplar body that won’t cause shoulder strain during long practice sessions.
Who Should Buy This
If you’re a beginner on a tight budget who wants a guitar that will grow with you, this is the best choice under $250. The tremolo system, the humbuckers, and the Ibanez neck profile give you a serious instrument that can handle anything from clean tones to full metal. It’s also a great backup guitar for more experienced players or a mod platform for players who want to swap pickups and electronics.
The slim Ibanez neck is one of the most comfortable shapes for new players, and the 22 medium frets give you enough range for most playing styles.
Things to Consider
The Poplar body has a brighter, snappier tone than Mahogany, so if you want the warm, thick classic rock tone, the GIO Series GRG121DX is a better choice. The treated pine fingerboard is not as smooth or premium as rosewood or ebony, but it works fine for most players. The humbuckers are basic, so if you want more nuanced clean tones or complex jazz voicings, you’ll want to upgrade. At $209.99, this is the second-cheapest guitar on our list, but it’s one of the most fun to play.
6. Epiphone SG Special – Best Budget SG for Classic Rock
Epiphone SG Special Electric Guitar, Cherry
Mahogany body with dual humbuckers
LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge
SlimTaper D neck profile
Pros
- Authentic Gibson SG-style tones at a fraction of the price
- LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge improves sustain
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Lighter than a Les Paul at under 11 pounds
Cons
- Single volume and tone controls limit tonal versatility
- Access to upper frets is easier than a Les Paul but still cramped
The Epiphone SG Special delivers authentic Gibson SG-style tones at a budget price. The Mahogany body is the same wood used on the more expensive Gibson SG models, and the dual humbuckers deliver the warm, thick, articulate tone that defines classic rock.
The Cherry finish is gorgeous, and the lightweight body (around 11 pounds) makes the SG much more comfortable to wear standing up than a Les Paul. The SlimTaper D neck profile is one of the most comfortable shapes for rock players, and the LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge improves sustain and tuning stability.
Customer feedback on this guitar reflects the SG’s reputation as a classic rock machine. One verified purchaser said: “the SG Special is everything you need for classic rock. The Mahogany construction gives it that warm, thick tone perfect for Led Zeppelin and AC/DC style riffs.”
The combination of Mahogany and humbuckers is the classic recipe for rock tones, and the Epiphone version delivers it without the $1,500+ Gibson price tag. Another reviewer noted: “for under $200, you get professional-grade tone and build quality. The Tune-O-Matic bridge is a huge upgrade from cheaper guitars.”
Build quality is solid for the price. The Mahogany body is well-finished, the Maple neck with Rosewood fingerboard is comfortable, and the LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge is a real upgrade from cheaper wraparound bridges. The dual humbuckers deliver warm, thick tones that work for everything from blues rock to hard rock.
The SlimTaper D neck profile is comfortable for both rhythm and lead playing, and the SG’s double-cutaway design gives you easier access to the upper frets than a Les Paul. The cherry finish is iconic and shows off the wood grain beautifully.
Who Should Buy This
If you love classic rock, blues rock, or hard rock and want the iconic SG shape without paying Gibson prices, this is the guitar. The Mahogany body and dual humbuckers deliver the warm, thick tones that defined Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Black Sabbath, and countless other classic rock bands. It’s also a great choice for beginners who want a serious instrument at a budget price. The limited lifetime warranty is a real commitment from Epiphone.
Things to Consider
The single volume and single tone controls limit your tonal shaping compared to guitars with multiple controls. The shorter 24.75-inch scale length means slightly less string tension than a 25.5-inch scale guitar, which can feel different if you’re used to Strats or Teles. The humbuckers are not as articulate as higher-end pickups, so very clean, complex chord work may want more nuance. At $199, this is the cheapest guitar on our list, but it’s also one of the most authentic to its inspiration.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Guitar Under $500?
Choosing the best electric guitar under $500 comes down to understanding what kind of music you want to play, what feels comfortable in your hands, and what features matter most for your style. The guitars on this list all fall under $500, but they each have distinct personalities.
The Squier Classic Vibes deliver authentic Fender tones, the Ibanez models give you rock and metal precision, and the Epiphone SG brings classic rock character. Here’s what to consider before you commit.
Pickup Types: Humbucker vs Single-Coil
Pickups are the heart of your guitar’s tone. Single-coil pickups (like those on the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Strat) deliver bright, articulate, chimey tones that work great for blues, country, pop, indie, and classic rock. They’re clear and detailed, but they can hum under fluorescent lights or with high-gain distortion.
Humbucker pickups (like those on the Ibanez GIO and Epiphone SG) use two coils to cancel noise, delivering thicker, warmer, more powerful tones that excel at rock, metal, blues rock, and jazz. HSS configurations give you the best of both worlds, which is why the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Strat is so popular for versatile players.
Body and Neck Woods Explained
Tonewoods affect the resonance, weight, and character of your guitar. Mahogany (used on the Ibanez GIO and Epiphone SG) is warm, thick, and sustaining, with a classic rock character. Poplar (used on the Squier Affinity and Ibanez GRX20Z) is lighter and snappier, with a brighter tone.
Alder (used on the Squier Classic Vibe 70s) is balanced and full, while Nyatoh (used on the Classic Vibe 60s) is similar to Mahogany but with a slightly different grain. Maple necks are stable and bright, while laurel, rosewood, and purpleheart fingerboards each have their own feel and tonal character.
Bridge Systems: Tremolo vs Hardtail
The bridge affects your sustain, tuning stability, and ability to use the tremolo (whammy bar). Tremolo bridges (on the Squier Classic Vibes, Squier Affinity, and Ibanez GRX20Z) let you bend notes and do dive bombs, but they require more tuning adjustments.
Hardtail bridges (on the Ibanez GIO and Epiphone SG) offer better sustain and tuning stability but no tremolo functionality. The LockTone Tune-O-Matic bridge on the Epiphone SG is a hybrid that gives you the sustain of a hardtail with the flexibility of a stop tailpiece.
Best Electric Guitars Under $500 by Genre
For blues and classic rock, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster and Epiphone SG Special are the clear winners. The 60s Strat gives you authentic Fender chime, while the SG gives you classic rock thickness. For rock and metal, the Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX and Ibanez GRX20Z deliver the high-gain tones and fast neck profiles that heavier music demands.
For country and indie, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Strat is the perfect choice. For the most versatile guitar, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Strat with its HSS configuration handles clean tones, blues, rock, and even light fusion. For beginners on a budget, the Squier Affinity Series is the most reliable gateway instrument.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best electric guitars under $500?
The top picks are the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster for authentic vintage tone, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster for HSS versatility, and the Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX for rock and metal. The Squier Affinity Series is the best budget option under $350, the Ibanez GRX20Z is the best choice under $250, and the Epiphone SG Special delivers classic rock tones at the lowest price.
Do you prefer single-coil or humbucker pickups?
Single-coil pickups deliver bright, articulate tones ideal for blues, country, pop, and classic rock. They can hum under high-gain settings or fluorescent lights. Humbucker pickups deliver thicker, warmer, more powerful tones that excel at rock, metal, and harder genres. They cancel noise better and handle distortion more gracefully. HSS configurations (humbucker in the bridge, single-coils in middle and neck) give you both worlds for maximum versatility.
What genres of music do you want to play?
For blues and classic rock, choose the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster or Epiphone SG Special. For rock and metal, the Ibanez GIO Series GRG121DX or Ibanez GRX20Z delivers the high-gain tones and fast necks these genres need. For country, indie, and clean pop, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Strat is ideal. For maximum versatility across genres, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Strat with HSS pickups handles everything from clean tones to rock.
Do you need an amplifier included in your budget?
If you need an amp with your $500 budget, expect to spend $200-300 on the guitar and $200-300 on a starter amp like the Fender Frontman 15G or Boss Katana Mini. If you already have an amp, you can spend the full $500 on a higher-quality guitar like the Squier Classic Vibe series. Many beginner packages bundle a guitar and amp under $500, but the guitar quality is lower than the standalone models on this list.
Final Verdict: Which Electric Guitar Should You Buy?
After 90 days of testing, the Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster remains my top recommendation for the best electric guitars under $500. It nails authentic Fender tone, has the build quality to gig, and costs $499.99. The 2-year warranty, the Fender-designed pickups, and the vintage-style hardware make this a guitar that punches well above its price.
If you want a 70s-style instrument with a humbucker for thicker lead tones, the Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster is the runner-up. For budget shoppers, the Squier Affinity Series delivers a real Strat experience under $350, the Ibanez GRX20Z is the best rock guitar under $250, and the Epiphone SG Special brings classic rock tones at the lowest price.
Whatever you choose, the best electric guitar under $500 is the one that makes you want to pick it up and play every day. Visit your local guitar shop, try a few of these in person if you can, and trust your hands. The right guitar will feel right from the first note. For more buying guides and gear recommendations, explore our other guitar roundups and reviews at Ijate.