9 Best Electric Guitar Under 500 (Buying Guide)

In the realm of music, few instruments command as much attention, admiration, and sheer sonic power as the electric guitar.

What’s fascinating is the current surge in demand for affordable yet high-quality electric guitars, making the world of electrifying soundscapes more accessible than ever before.

These instruments, while budget-friendly, boast a fusion of craftsmanship, innovation, and tonal versatility that cater to both beginners and seasoned players alike.

Whether you’re strumming for the first time or adding to your collection, these guitars are poised to deliver an electrifying experience without breaking the bank.

List of the 9 Best Electric Guitar Under 500

1	Fender Player Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar	CHECK PRICE
2	Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster	CHECK PRICE
3	Pyle Heavy Metal Electric Guitar Axe Kit	CHECK PRICE
4	Squier Mini Stratocaster	CHECK PRICE
5	Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 Metallic Blue	CHECK PRICE
6	Squier Mini Stratocaster	CHECK PRICE
7	Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster	CHECK PRICE
8	Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit Review	CHECK PRICE
9	Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Electric Guitar	CHECK PRICE

1. Fender Player Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar

Key Features:

The Fender Player Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar in Polar White is a testament to Fender’s legacy of crafting exceptional instruments. Boasting a classic Stratocaster design with a modern touch, this guitar is a visual and auditory masterpiece. The key features that set it apart include:

Versatile Pickup Configuration: With a unique HSS (Humbucker-Single-Single) setup, this guitar offers a humbucking bridge pickup for powerful tones and two single-coil stratocaster middle and neck pickups for that signature Strat sound.

Solid Alder Body: The body is crafted from alder, a wood known for its balanced tonal qualities. This ensures resonance and sustain, making it suitable for various genres.

“Modern C”-shaped Neck: The “Modern C”-shaped neck profile provides a comfortable playing experience, catering to both beginners and seasoned players. Paired with a 9.5″ fingerboard radius, it allows for easy string bending and smooth playability.

2-Point Tremolo Bridge: The guitar features a 2-point tremolo with bent-steel saddles, allowing players to add expressive pitch variations to their playing.

Specifications:

Color and Style: Polar White with a Maple Fingerboard

Neck and Fretboard Material: Maple
Hand Orientation: Right
Item Weight: 11 pounds

Dimensions: 42 x 15 x 5 inches
String Material: Alloy Steel
Number of Strings: 6

Bridge System: Tremolo

Use Cases:

The Fender Player Stratocaster HSS excels in a variety of musical scenarios:

Rock and Blues: The humbucking bridge pickup delivers powerful tones, ideal for rocking solos and bluesy licks.

Versatile Genres: With the combination of single-coil pickups, it’s equally adept at handling genres from jazz to country.

Live Performances: The 2-point tremolo bridge allows for expressive pitch modulation, making it an excellent choice for live performances.

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2. Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster

Key Features:

The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Electric Guitar is a homage to the iconic large-headstock Strat models from the 1970s, blending vintage aesthetics with modern playability. Here are the standout features that make it a compelling choice:

Fender-Designed Alnico Single-Coil Pickups: The heart of this guitar lies in its trio of Fender-Designed alnico single-coil pickups, delivering a rich and authentic tone reminiscent of the ’70s era.

Slim, Comfortable Neck Profile: Boasting a slim “C”-shaped neck profile, this guitar ensures a comfortable playing experience. Paired with a 9.5″ radius fingerboard and narrow-tall frets, it offers smooth playability for any style.

Vintage-Style Tremolo System: Dive into expressive string bending effects with the vintage-style tremolo system, allowing for both subtle nuances and wild pitch variations.

1970s-Inspired Aesthetics: The guitar features headstock markings inspired by the 1970s, coupled with rich-looking nickel-plated hardware. The vintage-tint gloss neck finish adds a touch of nostalgia to its overall vibe.

Specifications:

Color: Olympic White
Body Material: Poplar

Neck Material: Maple
Fretboard Material: Laurel Wood
Pickup Configuration: S (Single Coil)

Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
String Gauge: Light
String Material: Nickel Steel

Bridge System: Tremolo
Size: Full
Item Weight: 11 pounds

Dimensions: 44.5 x 15 x 4 inches

Use Cases:

The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster thrives in various musical scenarios:

Classic Rock and Blues: The alnico single-coil pickups deliver the vintage tones ideal for classic rock and blues genres.

Versatile Styles: With its comfortable neck and versatile pickups, it adapts seamlessly to different playing styles and genres.

Expressive Playing: The vintage-style tremolo system allows players to infuse their music with expressive string bending effects, making it suitable for genres requiring dynamic playing.

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3. Pyle Heavy Metal Electric Guitar Axe Kit

Key Features:

Heavy Metal Flame Style:

Pyle Heavy Metal Electric Guitar Axe Kit Electric Guitar is a Striking black matte finish with a flame design.

Classic S style tremolo bridge for expressive play.
Chrome-accent hardware & tuner pegs add a touch of elegance.
21-fret neck for extended range and versatility.

Matte Black Premium Hardware:

Body crafted from solid paulownia wood.
Premium Canadian maple neck for durability.

High-density man-made wood fretboard for smooth playability.
Wood cabinet coated with premium leather for a touch of luxury.

Full Starter Package:

Comprehensive package with guitar cable, Allan key, and tremolo rod.
Gig bag for convenient transportation.
6 spare electric guitar strings ensure you’re always ready to play.

Guitar strap, digital tuner, and 3 celluloid picks (0.96mm) included.

Dual Humbuckers with 3-Way Switch:

Humbucker pickups deliver a thick tone ideal for rock and metal genres.

3-way switch for versatile tonal options.

Included 10W Amplifier:

Specially designed 5” loudspeaker for high-frequency response.

Drive switch, volume, treble, and bass knobs for tone control.
Headphone output for silent practice.

Specifications:

Brand: Pyle
Color: Black Matte
Size: Standard

Top Material: Paulownia Wood
Body Material: Engineered Wood
Back Material: Solid Paulownia Wood

Neck Material: Maple
Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
String Gauge: Light

String Material: Nickel Steel
Bridge System: Tremolo
Item Weight: 12.12 pounds

Product Dimensions: 39 x 17 x 5 inches
Total Guitar Length: 36.5 inches

Use Cases:

Rock and Metal Enthusiasts: The humbucker pickups and flame design make it perfect for rock and metal genres.

Beginners and Intermediates: The comprehensive starter package and versatile playability cater to players at different skill levels.

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4. Squier Mini Stratocaster

Key Features:

Compact Design: The Squier Mini Stratocaster is designed for players of all ages with its 3/4 size, making it comfortable for younger players or those seeking a more compact instrument.

Quality Construction: Crafted with a thin and lightweight body, the guitar is easy to handle without compromising on the iconic Stratocaster aesthetics.

Sonic Versatility: Equipped with three single-coil pickups, the Mini Stratocaster delivers an impressive sonic variety suitable for various genres.

Reliable Tuning Stability: The sealed die-cast tuning machines ensure consistent and reliable tuning stability, allowing you to focus on playing without constant adjustments.

Specifications:

Brand: Fender

Color: Black
Top Material Type: Poplar Wood
Body Material: Poplar

Back Material Type: Alder Wood
Neck Material Type: Poplar
Scale Length: 22.75″

Pickups: Three single-coil pickups
Tuning Machines: Sealed die-cast tuning machines
Item Weight: 3.3 pounds

Product Dimensions: 40 x 15 x 4 inches
ASIN: B07BBW41Z1
Best Sellers Rank: #6,493 in Musical Instruments

Use Cases:

Beginner-Friendly: Perfect for aspiring musicians, younger players, or those with smaller hands due to its 3/4 size and “C”-shaped neck profile.

Versatile Playing: The combination of single-coil pickups and vintage-style hardtail bridge makes it suitable for exploring various musical genres.

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5. Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 Metallic Blue

Key Features:

Striking Design: The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22 Metallic Blue finish and sleek Dinky arch top design make the Jackson JS22 a visual standout, catching the eye of both beginners and seasoned players.

Tonewood Powerhouse: Crafted with a poplar body and maple top, this guitar delivers a powerful and resonant tone that suits a variety of playing styles.

High-Output Humbuckers: Equipped with two high-output ceramic humbuckers, the JS22 ensures massive tone and killer sustain, making it ideal for those who crave sonic mayhem.

Playability Redefined: The maple speed neck and fat-fretted, compound-radius amaranth fingerboard provide unparalleled playability, catering to both chord enthusiasts and shredders.

Specs at a Glance:

Brand: Jackson
Color: Metallic Blue
Body Material: Poplar

Neck Material: Maple
Fretboard Material: Amaranth
Guitar Pickup Configuration: H (2 humbuckers)

String Material: Nickel
Number of Strings: 6
Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo

Item Weight: 8.8 pounds
Product Dimensions: 12.99 x 2.4 x 39.29 inches
Best Sellers Rank: #10,663 in Musical Instruments

Best For:

Beginners and Beyond: With an affordable price tag and excellent quality, the JS22 is a fantastic choice for beginners seeking a reliable and versatile electric guitar.

Fast and Furious Playing: Crafted for speed, this guitar suits those who love fast, intricate playing styles, delivering excellent action and playability.

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6. Squier Mini Stratocaster

Key Features:

Compact and Stylish: The Squier Mini Stratocaster, with its reduced size and classic Fender styling, is an ideal choice for those seeking a compact and visually appealing instrument.

Lightweight Build: Crafted with a thin and lightweight poplar body, this guitar ensures comfort during extended play sessions, making it perfect for beginners and players with smaller hands.

Playable Neck Profile: The easy-to-play “C”-shaped neck profile enhances playability, providing a comfortable and smooth experience for both beginners and seasoned guitarists.

Versatile Pickup Configuration: The three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching offer a range of tones, allowing you to explore various musical genres with ease.

Solid Tuning Stability: The hardtail bridge ensures rock-solid tuning stability, a crucial feature for hassle-free playing sessions.

Specifications:

Brand: Fender
Color: Black

Body Material: Poplar
Fretboard Material: Laurel Wood
Guitar Pickup Configuration: SSS (Single-Single-Single)

String Material: Nickel Steel
Scale Length: 22.75 Inches
Item Weight: 6.6 pounds

Product Dimensions: 39.8 x 14.9 x 4 inches
ASIN: B088FYQ5BL
Item Model Number: 0370123506

Best Sellers Rank: #45,687 in Musical Instruments, #432 in Solid Body Electric Guitars
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
Date First Available: June 5, 2020

Best For:

Beginners and Students: An excellent choice for those starting their musical journey, offering a comfortable playing experience and iconic Fender tone.

Travel and On-the-Go Musicians: The compact size makes it a convenient companion for musicians on the move, ensuring you never miss a chance to play.

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7. Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster

Key Features:

1960s Evolution Tribute: The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Stratocaster pays homage to the 1960s Strat evolution, capturing the essence of that iconic era in its design and features.

Fender-Designed Alnico Pickups: Immerse yourself in the distinctive single-coil tones with Fender-Designed alnico pickups, delivering that authentic vintage sound.

Slim “C”-Shaped Neck: The slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile, finished with a vintage-tint gloss, provides a smooth playing experience, staying true to the 1960s vibe.

Vintage-Style Tremolo System: Expressive string bending effects come to life with the vintage-style tremolo system, allowing you to add your touch to every note.

Aesthetically Pleasing: Featuring 1960s-inspired headstock markings, nickel-plated hardware, and a vintage-tint gloss neck finish, this guitar is not just a musical instrument but a visual delight.

Specs at a Glance:

Brand: Fender
Color: Lake Placid Blue
Body Material: Nato
Fretboard Material: Laurel Wood
Guitar Pickup Configuration: S (Single-coil)
Product Weight: 10 pounds
Product Dimensions: 44.5 x 15 x 4 inches
ASIN: B07T47VS9L
Item Model Number: 0374010502
Best Sellers Rank: #21,160 in Musical Instruments, #173 in Solid Body Electric Guitars
Date First Available: June 28, 2019
Scale Length: 25.5 inches
String Material: Nickel Steel
Number of Strings: 6
Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo
Size: Full

Best For:

Vintage Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who appreciate the timeless sound and aesthetics of 1960s Stratocasters.

Versatile Playing Styles: From clean, jazzy tones to bluesy riffs, this guitar adapts to various playing styles, making it a versatile choice for musicians.

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8. Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit Review

Key Features:

Complete All-in-One Set: The Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit offers a comprehensive package, perfect for both beginner and seasoned guitarists, ensuring you have everything you need to start playing right away.

Traditional Body Style: The guitar features a traditional body style with handcrafted all-linden plywood top, back, and sides adorned with a captivating red burst pattern, combining aesthetics with functionality.

High-Density Man-made Wood: The fingerboard and bridge are crafted from high-density man-made wood, enhancing durability and providing a smooth playing surface.

Hand-Rubbed Matte Finish: The hand-rubbed matte finish on the body, neck, and headstock not only adds a touch of elegance but also contributes to a comfortable playing experience.

Beginner Kit Inclusions: The kit includes a storage gig bag case, six spare guitar strings, a detachable nylon shoulder strap, pitch pipe tuner, cleaning cloth, and picks – ensuring you’re well-equipped to kick-start your musical journey.

Specs at a Glance:

Brand: Pyle
Color: Crimson Burst Matte
Size: 34″
Total Length: 34”
Scale Length: 22.9”
Headstock Material: Okoume
Fretboard/Fingerboard Material: High-Density Man-made Wood
No. of Frets: 20 Frets
String Material: Steel Alloy
Item Weight: 5.59 pounds
Product Dimensions: 34 x 13 x 3.6 inches
Country of Origin: China
ASIN: B08LZPZ8W5
Best Sellers Rank: #3,090 in Musical Instruments
Date First Available: October 27, 2020

Use Cases:

Ideal for Beginners: The Pyle Acoustic Guitar Kit is tailored for beginners, offering a comfortable playing experience and a set of accessories to facilitate the learning process.

Versatile Playing Styles: Whether you’re into strumming chords or picking melodies, this guitar’s design and features make it suitable for a variety of playing styles.

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9. Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Electric Guitar

Key Features:

Compact Design: The Jackson JS Series Dinky Minion JS1X Electric Guitar offers a compact design, making it an excellent choice for players of all levels, especially young aspiring guitarists.

Gloss Black Finish: The guitar showcases a sleek Gloss Black finish with black hardware, providing a visually striking and modern aesthetic.

High-Output Humbucking Pickups: Equipped with dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups featuring ceramic magnets, the JS1X delivers a clear and powerful tone suitable for various playing styles.

Short Scale Length: With a short 25.5-inch scale length, this guitar combines playability and comfort, making it an ideal instrument for both beginners and experienced players.

String-Through-Body Hardtail Bridge: The string-through-body hardtail bridge with block saddles enhances intonation and sustain, ensuring a reliable and consistent performance.

Poplar Body: Crafted from poplar, the guitar’s body provides a balanced and resonant sound, contributing to the overall quality of the instrument.

Specifications:

Brand: Jackson
Color: Black
Top Material Type: Maple Wood
Body Material: Poplar
Neck Material Type: Maple
Fretboard Material: Amaranth
Guitar Pickup Configuration: H (Humbucking)
Scale Length: 25.5 Inches
Number of Strings: 6
Guitar Bridge System: Hard Tail
Item Weight: 1 pound
Product Dimensions: 16 x 6 x 44 inches
ASIN: B07GPKJZF6
Item Model Number: 00073-00106739
Date First Available: August 8, 2018

Use Cases:

Perfect for Young Players: The short scale length and compact design make this guitar an excellent choice for young future guitar enthusiasts, ensuring a comfortable playing experience.

Versatile Playing Styles: With high-output humbucking pickups and a versatile design, the JS1X accommodates various playing styles, from rock and metal to other genres.

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Buying Guide: 9 Best Electric Guitars Under $500

Choosing the right electric guitar is a crucial decision for any guitarist, and finding the perfect balance between quality and budget is key. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to assist you in making an informed decision when considering electric guitars under $500.

1. Purpose and Genre:

Identify the primary purpose of the guitar – whether you’re a beginner, intermediate player, or looking for a specific sound for a particular genre.
Different guitars cater to various styles, so consider if you’re into rock, blues, jazz, metal, or a combination.

2. Body Type:

Electric guitars come in various body shapes, such as Stratocaster, Telecaster, Les Paul, and more. Each shape offers unique tonal characteristics and playing comfort.
Choose a body type that aligns with your playing style and preferences.

3. Pickups and Tone:

Pay attention to the pickup configuration – single-coil, humbucker, or a combination of both. Humbuckers are known for a thicker, warmer tone, while single-coils offer clarity and brightness.
Consider the versatility of the guitar’s tonal options.

4. Neck Profile and Scale Length:

Neck profile influences the feel of the guitar. Options like “C” or “U” shapes are common, each offering a different grip.
Scale length affects string tension and overall playability. Shorter scales can be more comfortable for beginners.

5. Build Quality and Materials:

Check the materials used for the body, neck, and fretboard. Common body materials include mahogany, alder, poplar, etc.
Quality craftsmanship and reliable hardware contribute to the guitar’s durability.

6. Brand Reputation:

Established brands often maintain a reputation for quality. Research the brand’s history, customer reviews, and product consistency.
Don’t shy away from lesser-known brands; they may offer excellent value for money.

7. Playability:

Playability is crucial for any guitarist. Consider factors like fret size, fingerboard radius, and action height.
A comfortable guitar encourages longer practice sessions and better performance.

8. Extras and Accessories:

Some guitars come in bundles with accessories like gig bags, tuners, straps, and extra strings. Evaluate these extras based on your immediate needs.

9. Customer Reviews:

Read customer reviews to understand real-world experiences with the guitar models you’re considering.
Look for feedback on build quality, sound, and overall satisfaction.

Conclusion: 9 Best Electric Guitar Under 500

In conclusion, navigating the realm of electric guitars under $500 involves striking a harmonious balance between personal preferences, playing style, and budget considerations.

The diverse market offers a myriad of choices, from iconic body shapes to versatile pickup configurations.

Whether you’re a beginner embarking on a musical journey or an experienced player seeking a budget-friendly addition to your collection, understanding the importance of factors like build quality, playability, and tonal versatility is paramount.

By delving into customer reviews, exploring brand reputations, and considering the unique characteristics of each guitar, you can confidently select an instrument that resonates with your musical aspirations.

That’s all! You can also check out 11 Best Electric Guitar Under 1000 (Buying Guide) and 11 Best Beginner Guitar Amp (Buying Guide)