14 Best Electric Guitars Under $150, Compared
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Finding the best electric guitars under $150 requires focusing on practical specifications rather than marketing claims. We compared 14 options based strictly on the data published in their listings. The Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit leads this list because its 39-inch length provides a standard solid body shape for left-handed beginners. Each pick here is selected for how its specific measurements, materials, and hardware support your playing needs. This guide helps you decide which instrument matches your budget and physical requirements without guesswork.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You are a left-handed beginner looking for a complete kit Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit It is a 39-inch left-handed solid body kit designed for new players.
- You want a Fender-designed Telecaster with single-coil pickups Fender Squier Debut Telecaster Electric Guitar This model features a Fender-designed body and two single-coil pickups for classic tone.
- You need a complete beginner package that includes an amplifier Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar This guitar offers a solid poplar body and maple neck for straightforward playability.
- You seek a warm tone with a rosewood fretboard and mahogany body KGD Relic Electric Guitar (Sunburst) It combines a mahogany body and neck with a rosewood fretboard for balanced sound.
- You are a right-handed player wanting an offset HSS guitar Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black This right-handed offset model provides a versatile HSS pickup setup and basswood body.
Our 14 picks
Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit
Best for: left-handed beginners
- Hand Orientation
- Left-Handed
- Body Type
- Solid body
- Color
- Sunburst
- Dimensions
- 52.8 × 38.2 × 33.5 inches
View on Amazon: Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit
This Donner electric guitar is built for left-handed players who want a solid body instrument. It measures 39 inches in length and features a sunburst finish. The kit includes a full setup for beginners. You get a standard scale length that matches other beginner models. It is a practical option if you need a left-handed configuration under $150.
Pros
- Left-handed orientation for specific player needs
- 39-inch solid body construction
- Sunburst color finish option
- Included in a beginner guitar kit
Cons
- Limited to left-handed configuration only
- Basic solid body design lacks premium tonewoods
- No specific hardware or electronics specs listed
Good fit if
- You are a left-handed beginner guitarist
- You want a complete kit for starting out
- You prefer a solid body instrument
Skip if
- You are right-handed
- You need specific pickup configurations
- You want a vintage style finish
Verdict: Donner 39 Inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar is a functional entry-level option for left-handed players. It provides a standard solid body shape and kit inclusion, making it suitable for those starting their journey.
Fender Squier Debut Telecaster Electric Guitar
Best for: beginners who want a Fender-designed Telecaster
- Pickup Configuration
- two single-coil pickups
- Target Audience
- Beginners
- Dimensions
- 7.83 × 3.19 × 9.84 inches
- Weight
- 6.7 pounds
View on Amazon: Fender Squier Debut Telecaster Electric Guitar
The Fender Squier Debut Telecaster is a beginner electric guitar with a slim "C"-shaped neck and a thin, lightweight body for comfortable playing. Two single-coil pickups with 3-way switching cover classic Tele tones. A hardtail bridge and sealed-gear tuning machines support tuning stability. A 2-year limited warranty backs the build. It suits beginners who want a Fender-designed guitar.
Pros
- Designed by Fender in California with a slim "C"-shaped neck and thin, lightweight body
- Two single-coil pickups with 3-way switching for classic Tele tones
- Hardtail bridge and sealed-gear tuning machines for reliable tuning stability
- 2-year limited warranty against defects in materials and workmanship
Cons
- Single-coil pickups only, with no hum-canceling option listed
- Only one pickup configuration offered
- No gig bag, strap, or other accessories included in the listed specs
Good fit if
- You want a Fender-designed guitar under $150
- You prefer a lightweight body and slim neck for comfortable beginner play
- You want classic Tele tones from two single-coil pickups
Skip if
- You need humbuckers or a hum-canceling pickup setup
- You want a starter kit with included accessories
- You prefer a double-cutaway body style
Verdict: Fender Squier Debut Telecaster Electric Guitar is a spec-forward beginner guitar with a Fender-designed body, two single-coil pickups, and stable tuning hardware, making it the premium choice among the budget models on this list.
Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar
Best for: budget-conscious beginners wanting a solid-body guitar with color variety
- Body Material
- poplar wood
- Neck Material
- maple
- Fretboard Material
- laurel wood
- Number of Frets
- 22
- Scale Length
- 24.75 inch
- Body Type
- Solid Body
View on Amazon: Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar
The Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar is a full-size beginner instrument with a poplar wood body, maple neck, and laurel wood fretboard. It has a 24.75-inch scale length and 22 frets. This guitar is available in nine color options, including White, Black, and Red. It suits players looking for a solid-body electric guitar under $150 with a classic DC-style shape.
Pros
- Solid poplar wood body for a balanced tone
- Maple neck and laurel wood fretboard for smooth playability
- 22 frets with a 24.75-inch scale length
- Available in nine color finishes
Cons
- No included accessories or starter kit
- No coil-split or switching options listed
- Only one pickup configuration (not specified)
Good fit if
- You want a solid-body electric guitar with a poplar wood body
- You prefer a 24.75-inch scale length for easier bending
- You want a choice of multiple color options
Skip if
- You need a complete starter kit with amplifier and accessories
- You want a guitar with a tremolo bridge or coil-split pickup options
- You prefer a longer 25.5-inch scale length
Verdict: Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar offers a solid poplar body and maple neck at a budget-friendly price, making it a straightforward choice for beginners who want a full-size guitar without extra gear.
Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp
Best for: beginners wanting a full kit with amp
- Body Material
- solid wood
- Neck Material
- Canadian maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- HSS
- Body Type
- solid body
- Number of Frets
- 22
View on Amazon: Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp
The Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit is a solid-body starter set built around an HSS pickup configuration. It has a solid wood body, Canadian maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard with 22 frets. The kit includes a 15W amplifier, bag, capo, strap, extra string, cable, and picks. It suits beginners who want a complete setup.
Pros
- HSS pickup configuration combines a humbucker with two single-coils for versatile tones
- Solid wood body with Canadian maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- 22 frets with position markers and a tremolo bridge with removable whammy bar
- Complete kit includes 15W amp, bag, capo, strap, extra string, cable, and picks
- Available in five color options
Cons
- Body material listed only as solid wood, with no specific wood species given
- No scale length or weight specs are provided
- 15W amplifier is included but its features are not detailed
Good fit if
- You want a full beginner kit with amplifier and accessories included
- You want HSS pickup versatility for different styles
- You want a tremolo bridge for pitch-bending effects
Skip if
- You need a specific body wood species for tonal preference
- You want a guitar with more than 22 frets
- You already have an amplifier and only need the guitar
Verdict: Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp is a complete beginner package with versatile HSS pickups, a solid wood build, and all the accessories you need to start playing.
Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Neck Pickup
Best for: upgrading the neck position of an electric guitar
- Dimensions
- 4 × 2.85 × 1.6 inches
- Weight
- 6.4 ounces
The Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Neck pickup is a humbucker designed for higher output than a classic P.A.F., using Alnico 2 magnets and a DC resistance of 4.03k ohms. It is hand-built in Santa Barbara, California, and comes with a 4-conductor cable. This neck pickup suits players who want a hotter, mid-forward sound for driving their amp.
Pros
- Handmade in Santa Barbara, California
- Alnico 2 magnets for a punchy, mid-forward tone
- 4-conductor shielded cable for flexible wiring options
- Higher output than standard P.A.F. pickups
Cons
- Only available as a neck pickup in this listing
- Short mounting legs may limit fit in some guitars
- No included mounting screws or hardware
Good fit if
- You want a hotter humbucker for your guitar's neck position
- You are upgrading a guitar and prefer Alnico 2 magnet pickups
- You value hand-built components made in the USA
Skip if
- You need a bridge pickup or a matched set
- You are on a tight budget for a complete guitar under $150
- You prefer vintage-output pickups for cleaner tones
Verdict: Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Neck Pickup is a well-made, higher-output humbucker for players who want a punchier neck tone, though it is a single pickup rather than a full guitar.
KGD Relic Electric Guitar, Mahogany Explorer
Best for: relic Explorer fans wanting mahogany tone and hum-free pickups
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- Semi-Covered H-H
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Body Type
- solid body
View on Amazon: KGD Relic Electric Guitar, Mahogany Explorer
This KGD Relic Electric Guitar is a full-size solid-body model with a mahogany body and neck, rosewood fretboard, and a semi-covered H-H pickup configuration. It weighs about 11 lbs and has a fixed bridge for tuning stability. It suits players who want a vintage-style Explorer with warm, balanced tones and a relic finish.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck for warm, balanced tones with natural sustain
- Semi-covered H-H pickups reduce hum while retaining open-coil punch
- Fixed bridge provides tuning stability for aggressive playing
- C-shaped neck and rosewood fretboard for ergonomic playability
- Available in three colors: Black&White, Silver, and Cream Yellow
Cons
- Weighs about 11 lbs, heavier than many solid-body guitars
- No coil-splitting or switching options listed for the H-H pickups
- Relic finish may not appeal to those wanting a pristine look
Good fit if
- You want a mahogany Explorer-style guitar with a relic vintage look
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability during heavy playing
- You like hum-reduced pickups for high-gain tones
Skip if
- You need a lightweight guitar under 8 lbs for long sessions
- You want a guitar with a modern, glossy finish
- You require coil-splitting or multiple pickup voicings
Verdict: KGD Relic Electric Guitar, Mahogany Explorer is a solid choice for players seeking a relic-style Explorer with mahogany construction and hum-reducing pickups, though its 11-lb weight and lack of pickup switching options may limit its appeal.
KGD Relic Electric Guitar (Sunburst)
Best for: players seeking a warm, mahogany-bodied SG-style guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- Alnico humbucking pickups
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Body Type
- Solid Body
The KGD Relic Electric Guitar is a solid-body model with a mahogany body and neck, paired with a rosewood fretboard. It features Alnico humbucking pickups for warm, full output. The fixed bridge provides stable intonation and sustain. This guitar suits players who want a vintage-style SG shape with a balanced low-mid tone.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck for balanced low-mid tones
- Rosewood fretboard for a smooth playing feel
- Alnico humbucking pickups for warm, high-output sound
- Fixed bridge for stable intonation and sustain
- Classic SG body shape with tiger stripe maple veneer
Cons
- Nut width of 42mm may feel wider than standard for some players
- No tremolo system for pitch effects
- Only one pickup configuration option (Alnico humbuckers)
Good fit if
- You want a warm, woody tone from a mahogany construction
- You prefer a smooth, dry feel from a rosewood fretboard
- You like the vintage look of an SG-style body with a tiger stripe veneer
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a tremolo bar for vibrato effects
- You prefer a lighter basswood or alder body
- You want a thinner nut width closer to 38-40mm
Verdict: KGD Relic Electric Guitar (Sunburst) offers a mahogany body and neck with rosewood fretboard and Alnico humbuckers, delivering warm, balanced tone and vintage SG style at a budget-friendly price.
Sawtooth ST-ES-BKC Electric Guitar
Best for: beginners wanting a ready-to-play single-coil guitar
- Body Material
- Sycamore
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 3 single-coil
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
The Sawtooth ST-ES-BKC is a solid-body electric guitar with a sycamore body and a maple C-shape neck with a rosewood fingerboard. It has 21 medium jumbo frets, a 25.5-inch scale length, and a 42 mm nut width. Three single-coil pickups are controlled by a 5-way switch, one master volume, and two tone knobs. A synchronous tremolo bridge and chrome tuners complete the setup. It comes professionally set up and is suited for students and beginners.
Pros
- Solid sycamore body with black finish and chrome pickguard
- Maple C-shape neck with rosewood fingerboard and 21 medium jumbo frets
- Three single-coil pickups with 5-way selector and two tone controls
- Synchronous tremolo bridge for pitch effects
- Professional setup included out of the box
Cons
- Not a full-size guitar, which may feel smaller than standard models
- Only 21 frets, limiting high-note access compared to 22-fret guitars
Good fit if
- You want a guitar that comes professionally set up and ready to play
- You prefer the classic look of a chrome pickguard and single-coil pickups
- You are a beginner or student looking for a right-handed solid-body electric
Skip if
- You need a full-size instrument with a standard 22-fret neck
- You want a guitar with humbucker pickups for heavier tones
Verdict: Sawtooth ST-ES-BKC Electric Guitar offers a solid-body build with single-coil pickups and a tremolo bridge at a size that is not full-scale, making it a practical choice for beginners who value a ready-to-play setup.
Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black
Best for: beginners wanting a complete P90-equipped kit
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Canadian Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Purpleheart
- Pickup Configuration
- P90 S-S
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
View on Amazon: Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black
This Tostar solid body electric guitar features a poplar body, Canadian maple neck, and purpleheart fingerboard. It uses a P90 S-S pickup configuration with a 3-way switch for versatile tone. The Tune-O-Matic bridge and 1:18 ratio closed tuners help with tuning stability. It comes with a padded gig bag, strap, picks, cable, and maintenance tools. Suited for beginners and intermediate players who want a complete kit with a matte black finish.
Pros
- P90 S-S pickup configuration delivers single-coil clarity and humbucker warmth
- Tune-O-Matic bridge with tailpiece for improved sustain and intonation
- 1:18 ratio closed-back tuners for precise tuning stability
- 22 cupronickel frets with glow-in-the-dark side markers for dark-stage play
- Includes padded gig bag, strap, picks, cable, and maintenance kit
Cons
- Only 22 frets, fewer than some competitors with 24 frets
- No coil-split or additional switching options listed
- Right-handed orientation only; no left-handed option available
Good fit if
- You want a complete beginner kit with accessories included
- You prefer the warm, clear tone of P90 pickups for blues, rock, or jazz
- You need glow-in-the-dark fret markers for visibility on dark stages
Skip if
- You need 24 frets for extended range playing
- You require a left-handed model
- You want a guitar with humbucker pickups for heavier genres
Verdict: Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black offers a well-rounded beginner kit with P90 pickups, a Tune-O-Matic bridge, and glow-in-the-dark side markers, making it a solid choice for new players seeking a complete package.
Leo Jaymz TL Style Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body
Best for: classic single-coil tone with mahogany warmth
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Hard Maple
- Pickup Configuration
- two classic single-coil pickups
- Number of Frets
- 22
- Scale Length
- 25.5"
- Nut Width
- 1.69" / 42.85mm
View on Amazon: Leo Jaymz TL Style Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body
This Leo Jaymz TL-style electric guitar has a mahogany body and a hard maple neck. It uses two single-coil pickups with a 3-way switch for clear, bright tones. The 25.5-inch scale and 22 frets give you a full-size playing feel. A six-saddle bridge helps with intonation and setup. It suits players who want a classic single-coil sound and a distinctive look.
Pros
- Mahogany body for warm, balanced tone
- Hard maple neck
- Two single-coil pickups with 3-way switch
- Six-saddle bridge for flexible intonation
- 25.5-inch scale and 22 frets
Cons
- Only two single-coil pickups; no humbucker or coil-split options listed
- No tremolo system listed; bridge is fixed six-saddle
- Default US Flag finish is a bold look; other finishes are available as variations
Good fit if
- You want a Telecaster-style guitar with two single-coil pickups
- You prefer a mahogany body for warm, balanced tone
- You want a full-scale 25.5-inch guitar with 22 frets
Skip if
- You need humbucker pickups for high-gain tones
- You want a tremolo bridge for pitch effects
- You prefer a plain finish without a graphic design
Verdict: Leo Jaymz TL Style Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body is a solid choice for players who want a classic single-coil sound and a comfortable full-scale neck. Its mahogany body and hard maple neck deliver warm, balanced tone, and the six-saddle bridge supports precise intonation.
Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar
Best for: right-handed players wanting an offset HSS guitar
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Hand Orientation
- Right-handed
- Color
- Sunburst
- Dimensions
- 41.3 × 16.5 × 4.3 inches
View on Amazon: Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar
This is a right-handed offset electric guitar from Monoprice's Indio Series. It has a basswood body, a maple neck, and a rosewood fretboard. The pickup layout is two single coils and a bridge humbucker, giving you a flexible range of tones. A 3-way blade switch, volume knob, and tone knob handle the controls. A gig bag is included.
Pros
- Two single coil pickups and a bridge humbucker for flexible tone
- Basswood body with maple neck and rosewood fretboard
- 3-way blade switch plus volume and tone controls
- Adjustable bridge
- Protective gig bag included
Cons
- No tremolo system listed
- Listed string material is nylon
- Available only in White or Sunburst
Good fit if
- You want an offset-style guitar with a classic look
- You want a versatile HSS pickup layout
- You need a gig bag included with the guitar
Skip if
- You want a tremolo or whammy bar
- You prefer a solid-color finish beyond White or Sunburst
- You are looking for a left-handed model
Verdict: Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar is a solid right-handed offset option with a versatile HSS pickup setup, a basswood body, and a gig bag included.
Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple
Best for: beginners seeking a purple mahogany guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Color
- Purple
- Dimensions
- 41.3 × 17.3 × 3.54 inches
- Weight
- 8.82 pounds
The Kramer Focus VT-211S is a purple solid-body electric guitar built for players who want a classic feel. It features a mahogany body and a set of Kramer Alnico 5 pickups, including two single-coils and one humbucker. The 5-way selector switch gives you tone control. At 8.82 pounds, it is a full-size instrument. This model suits beginners looking for a distinctive look and traditional hardware.
Pros
- Mahogany body construction
- Two Alnico 5 single-coil pickups
- One Alnico 5 humbucker pickup
- 5-way pickup selector switch
- Kramer Traditional tremolo bridge
Cons
- Heavier build at 8.82 pounds
- No included accessories or kit
- Limited to three color options
Good fit if
- You want a mahogany body guitar
- You prefer a purple finish
- You need a 5-way selector switch
Skip if
- You need a lightweight instrument under 7 pounds
- You want a complete beginner kit with accessories
- You prefer a maple neck over mahogany
Verdict: The Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple Electric Guitar offers a solid mahogany body and versatile pickup configuration. It is a good fit for beginners who prioritize build quality and a unique purple aesthetic over lightweight portability.
LyxPro 39" Paulownia TL Electric Guitar
Best for: beginners needing a bundled practice setup
- Body Material
- Paulownia Wood
- Neck Material
- Maple Wood
- Body Type
- Solid-Body
- Number of Frets
- 22
- Color
- Black
This LyxPro bundle includes a 39-inch solid-body electric guitar with a Paulownia wood body and a maple neck. It features 22 frets and a C-style neck profile. The set comes with a 20-watt amplifier. The guitar uses a 3-way pickup switch and standard volume and tone controls. This configuration offers a versatile sound range. It is suitable for players seeking a complete starter package with essential practice gear.
Pros
- Solid Paulownia wood body construction
- Handcrafted maple wood neck
- 22 frets with C-style profile
- Includes 20-watt amplifier
Cons
- Paulownia is a lighter wood than mahogany or alder
- Only includes a 20-watt amplifier
- Single cutaway design limits upper fret access
Good fit if
- You want a complete guitar and amp bundle
- You prefer a lighter body for comfort
- You need a standard Telecaster-style layout
Skip if
- You require a heavy mahogany body
- You need high-wattage performance for stage use
- You prefer a double cutaway design
Verdict: LyxPro 39" Paulownia TL Electric Guitar provides a lightweight, complete practice setup. It suits beginners who need a bundled amplifier and a familiar single-cutaway form factor.
IYV ILS-340 BK Solid Body Electric Guitar
Best for: beginners seeking a CNC-built solid body
- Body Type
- solid body
- Color
- Black
The IYV ILS-340 BK is a solid body electric guitar finished in black. It is manufactured using CNC machines for precision. The build aims for a perfect neck with minimal defects. This model offers a straightforward design for players seeking a reliable instrument. It fits beginners who want a standard solid body shape. The black finish provides a classic look for your setup.
Pros
- Solid body construction
- CNC machine manufacturing
- Black color finish
- Minimal neck defects
Cons
- No tonewood specified
- No hardware details listed
- No electronics described
Good fit if
- You want a solid body electric guitar
- You prefer a black finish
- You value CNC precision
Skip if
- You need specific tonewood
- You require detailed hardware info
- You want known electronics
Verdict: IYV ILS-340 BK Solid Body Electric Guitar suits players who want a CNC-built solid body guitar in black. It is a practical option for those who prioritize manufacturing precision over detailed spec sheets.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit | Fender Squier Debut Telecaster Electric Guitar | Leo Jaymz 39 Inch Solid Body Electric Guitar | Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp | Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Neck Pickup | KGD Relic Electric Guitar, Mahogany Explorer | KGD Relic Electric Guitar (Sunburst) | Sawtooth ST-ES-BKC Electric Guitar | Tostar 39" Solid Body Electric Guitar, Black | Leo Jaymz TL Style Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body | Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar | Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple | LyxPro 39" Paulownia TL Electric Guitar | IYV ILS-340 BK Solid Body Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | not specified | not specified | poplar wood | solid wood | not specified | Mahogany | Mahogany | Sycamore | Poplar | Mahogany | Basswood | Mahogany | Paulownia Wood | not specified |
| Neck Material | not specified | not specified | maple | Canadian maple | not specified | Mahogany | Mahogany | Maple | Canadian Maple | Hard Maple | Maple | not specified | Maple Wood | not specified |
| Fretboard Material | not specified | not specified | laurel wood | Rosewood | not specified | Rosewood | Rosewood | Rosewood | Purpleheart | not specified | Rosewood | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Pickup Configuration | not specified | two single-coil pickups | not specified | HSS | not specified | Semi-Covered H-H | Alnico humbucking pickups | 3 single-coil | P90 S-S | two classic single-coil pickups | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Number of Strings | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6 | 6 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Hand Orientation | Left-Handed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | right-handed | right-handed | not specified | Right-handed | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Body Type | Solid body | not specified | not specified | solid body | not specified | solid body | Solid Body | solid body | solid body | not specified | not specified | not specified | Solid-Body | solid body |
| Number of Frets | not specified | not specified | 22 | 22 | not specified | not specified | not specified | 21 | 22 | 22 | not specified | not specified | 22 | not specified |
| Scale Length | not specified | not specified | 24.75 inch | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Nut Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 42mm | 42 mm | not specified | 1.69" / 42.85mm | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Target Audience | not specified | Beginners | not specified | Beginners | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Beginners | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Sunburst | 2-Color Sunburst | White | Macaron Blue | Zebra, 4c Shielded | Black&White | Sunburst | Black w/ Chrome Pickguard | Black | Standard US Flag | Sunburst | Purple | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 52.8 × 38.2 × 33.5 inches | 7.83 × 3.19 × 9.84 inches | not specified | 40.6 × 17.7 × 5.9 inches | 4 × 2.85 × 1.6 inches | 14.2 × 1.7 × 42.5 inches | 13 × 1.7 × 38.5 inches | not specified | 39.4 × 13 × 2.36 inches | 34.5 × 15.1 × 2.29 inches | 41.3 × 16.5 × 4.3 inches | 41.3 × 17.3 × 3.54 inches | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | 6.7 pounds | not specified | not specified | 6.4 ounces | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 10.1 pounds | 8.82 pounds | not specified | not specified |
| Size | 39 Inch Left Handed | 8.1 cm x 19.9 cm x 25 cm | 39 Inch | not specified | Neck | not specified | not specified | Not Full-Size | TJM-160M | 25.5 inches | not specified | not specified | 20 Watt Amp | not specified |
| Model | EC1223 | 0379670503 | LJNSG | 39 inch | 11102-104-Z | K-Explorer | K-JA | ST-ES-BKC | TJM-160 SBK | YGK | 625882 | KF21PRCT1 | EGTL39BK1 | ILS-340 BK |
What you give up at this price
All 14 guitars under $150 are built for beginners. Most have solid-body construction and HSS pickups for versatility. Several are sold as kits with an amp and accessories. What the data shows you give up: no guitar has a case included, fretboard materials are mostly basic (laurel, rosewood), and some models list weight over 10 pounds. A few guitars lack full-scale size or detailed specs. Finish options are limited to a few colors per model. Pickup switching and coil-splitting are rare, found only on the Donner DST-200.
- No guitar includes a case or gig bag (the Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 is the only one that lists a gig bag included).
- Fretboard materials are entry-level: laurel, rosewood, or not specified; no ebony or maple fretboards.
- Some models weigh over 10 pounds (Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 at 10.1 lb, KGD Relic Explorer at 11 lb), which may be heavy for smaller players.
- Pickup switching options are minimal; only the Donner DST-200 offers coil splitting.
For instrument maintenance and setups, the best workbenches under 150 guide compares tabletop dimensions and weight capacities.
How we picked
We selected these products from Amazon listings priced under $150. Products in stock appear first, then by sales rank. Only one variant per product family is shown. All details come from published specifications and feature lists; we do not handle the products.
Prices and stock are shown live on the page and refresh at least daily. A product belongs to this guide only when its current price falls in the named range, so the list may change as prices shift. This method keeps the guide current and based on available data.
How to choose the right electric guitar under $150
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Pickup configuration
Pickup type shapes your sound. HSS (humbucker bridge, single-coil middle and neck) is common on models like the Umelody UST-200. It gives you a thicker bridge tone for rock and clearer neck tones for cleans. Single-coil-only guitars, like the Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster, deliver brighter, chimey sounds. For warm, hum-free output, look for dual humbuckers. Compare the pickup configuration spec to match the genres you want to play.
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Body type and material
All guitars on this list are solid-body, which means they resist feedback and are durable for practice and live use. Body material affects weight and tone. Poplar (used on the Leo Jaymz 39 Inch) is light and balanced. Mahogany (used on the KGD Relic) adds warmth and sustain. Basswood (used on the Monoprice Indio Offset) is lightweight with a neutral tone. Check the body material spec if you prefer a lighter guitar or a specific tonal character.
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Scale length and size
Scale length determines string tension and fret spacing. Most full-size guitars, like the Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster, have a 25.5-inch scale. This gives tighter strings and wider fret spacing, which suits larger hands. The Sawtooth ST-ES-BKC is not full-size, so it has shorter string length and closer frets, which may be easier for smaller players or children. Compare the size spec to ensure the guitar fits your hand size and playing comfort.
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Neck and fretboard materials
Neck and fretboard materials affect feel and tone. Maple necks, like on the Leo Jaymz TL Style, feel smooth and bright. Rosewood fretboards, like on the KGD Relic Electric Guitar, offer a warmer, slightly grippier feel. Laurel fretboards, like on the Leo Jaymz 39 Inch, are a budget-friendly alternative with a similar feel to rosewood. Check the neck material and fretboard material specs to choose a texture and tone you prefer.
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Target audience and extras
Most guitars under $150 target beginners. Some are sold as kits with an amp, cable, and accessories, like the Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit. Others are just the guitar, like the Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster. If you have no amp or accessories, a kit saves you from buying separately. If you already have gear, a standalone guitar lets you put more of your budget into the instrument itself. Check the target audience and included items in the product data.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best electric guitar for left-handed beginners?
The Donner 39 inch Left-Handed Electric Guitar Kit is the top choice for left-handed players. It features a 39-inch solid body with a sunburst finish. The package includes all necessary components to start playing immediately. Its specific left-handed orientation ensures comfortable handling for new musicians.
Which budget guitar offers the most versatile pickup configuration?
The Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp uses an HSS pickup configuration. This setup combines a humbucker with two single-coil pickups for diverse tonal options. The solid wood body supports this versatile electronics layout. It is ideal for beginners exploring different musical styles.
Are there mahogany body guitars under $150?
Yes, several models feature mahogany construction. The Kramer Focus VT-211S Purple has a solid mahogany body and weighs 8.82 pounds. The Leo Jaymz TL Style also uses a mahogany body with a hard maple neck for warm tone. These options provide classic tonal characteristics at a budget price.
What is the lightest guitar on this list?
The Seymour Duncan Hades Gates Neck Pickup is the lightest item at 6.4 ounces. Among full guitars, the Fender Squier Debut Telecaster weighs 6.7 pounds. Most other solid-body models weigh between 8 and 10 pounds. Heavier options like the KGD Explorer reach 11 pounds.
Which guitar is best for players who want a complete kit?
The Soulmate 39 Inch Electric Guitar Kit with Amp is designed as a complete package. It includes a solid wood build and HSS pickups for immediate use. The Tostar 39" Solid Body Guitar also offers a full kit with P90 pickups. These bundles provide everything needed to start playing.
Do any of these guitars have a rosewood fretboard?
The KGD Relic Electric Guitar in Sunburst features a rosewood fretboard. It pairs this with a mahogany body and neck for a warm tone. Most other models use maple or laurel fretboards. The rosewood option is distinct among the budget selections for its classic feel and appearance.
Which guitar is suitable for right-handed players?
The Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar is specifically designed for right-handed players. It features a basswood body and an HSS pickup configuration. The sunburst finish and offset shape provide a classic look. It includes a gig bag for easy transport and storage.
What is the difference between HSS and P90 pickups?
HSS configurations combine humbuckers and single-coils for versatility, as seen in the Soulmate kit. P90 pickups, found in the Tostar kit, offer a unique single-coil tone with higher output. Both are suitable for beginners. HSS provides more tonal switching options, while P90 delivers a distinct vintage sound.