Best Electric Guitars Under $1500: 15 Spec-Based Picks
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This guide compares 15 best electric guitars under $1500, ranked by their published specifications. The top pick is the Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White, which leads because it delivers Gibson-spec pickups and comes with a hard case.
Each recommendation is based solely on the specs from the product listings, so you can compare features like pickups, body wood, and hardware without marketing hype. Use this guide to decide which guitar fits your playing style and budget.
Our top pick: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the most compact model on the list Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose It measures 42.1 inches in length, making it the shortest instrument in this group.
- You need the lightest guitar for long practice sessions PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String, Holcomb Blue It weighs just 6.61 pounds, significantly lighter than the other options listed.
- You seek active humbuckers and an ebony fretboard ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin This model features active humbuckers and an ebony fingerboard for a specific tonal profile.
- You are a left-handed player seeking traditional specs Fender American Professional II Stratocaster Left-Handed It is a left-handed Stratocaster with traditional specifications and single-coil clarity.
Our 15 picks
ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin
Best for: players wanting active humbuckers and ebony fretboard
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 active humbucking pickups
- Body Type
- solidbody
- Color
- Black
This is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and a maple top. It has a mahogany neck and an ebony fingerboard. Two active humbucking pickups handle the electronics. The black satin finish gives it a subdued look. At 12 pounds, it is a heavier solidbody. It suits players who want a straightforward, high-output guitar with no extra switching complexity.
Pros
- Mahogany body with maple top
- Mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard
- Two active humbucking pickups
- Black satin finish
- Solidbody construction at 12 pounds
Cons
- No tremolo or vibrato system is listed
- No case or gig bag is included in the listed specs
- Active pickups will require battery power
Good fit if
- You want a solid mahogany guitar with an ebony fingerboard
- You prefer active humbucking pickups
- You like a black satin finish
Skip if
- You want a guitar with a tremolo bridge
- You want a lighter-weight solidbody
- You prefer passive pickups
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin is a spec-focused solidbody with active humbuckers and an ebony fingerboard, built around a mahogany body and neck.
Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White
Best for: players seeking a classic Les Paul Custom with Gibson pickups
- Pickup Configuration
- Gibson 490/498 Humbucker set
- Dimensions
- 43.8 × 15.8 × 5.91 inches
- Weight
- 19.4 pounds
The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom Les Paul Custom in Alpine White is a spec-focused recreation of a classic. It features a two-piece maple top over a solid mahogany body for resonance and sustain, and a Gibson 490/498 Humbucker pickup set for versatile tones. The long neck tenon adds stability and sustain. This guitar suits players who want vintage-inspired specs and a hard case included.
Pros
- Gibson 490/498 Humbucker pickup set for classic rock and blues tones
- Two-piece maple top over solid mahogany body for balanced resonance
- Long neck tenon for maximum sustain and stability
- Includes a hard case for protection and transport
Cons
- Heavier than many competitors at 19.4 pounds
- Limited to two color options (Alpine White and Ebony)
Good fit if
- You want a Les Paul Custom with Gibson pickups and vintage construction
- You prefer a heavier, solid-body guitar for sustain and resonance
- You need a hard case included with your purchase
Skip if
- You want a lighter guitar for extended playing sessions
- You need a wider color selection beyond Alpine White and Ebony
- You prefer a guitar with a Floyd Rose or other locking tremolo system
Verdict: Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White delivers Gibson-spec pickups and classic Les Paul construction with a hard case, making it a strong choice for traditionalists.
Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case
Best for: vintage-style ES-355 players who want a case included
- Dimensions
- 47.2 × 19.7 × 6.3 inches
View on Amazon: Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case
The Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom 1959 ES-355 is a full-size semi-hollow electric guitar in Cherry Red. It comes with a hardshell case, a gold-plated lightweight aluminum stop bar tailpiece, a long neck tenon, and multi-ply body binding. The specs point to a vintage-style instrument for players who want classic ES-355 looks and included case protection.
Pros
- Includes a hardshell case
- Gold-plated lightweight aluminum stop bar tailpiece
- Long neck tenon for neck-to-body stability
- Multi-ply binding on the body
Cons
- No pickups, electronics, or switching specs listed
- No weight or fretboard material listed
- Full-size body may be large for some players
Good fit if
- You want a vintage-style ES-355 in Cherry Red
- You want a guitar that ships with a hardshell case
- You value a long neck tenon and multi-ply body binding
Skip if
- You need detailed pickup or electronics specs before choosing
- You prefer a smaller or lighter guitar body
- You want a modern feature set not tied to a 1959 recreation
Verdict: Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case is a full-size vintage-style semi-hollow with a hardshell case, long neck tenon, and multi-ply binding. It suits players who want the classic ES-355 package without hunting for a case separately.
Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose
Best for: players seeking a versatile Stratocaster with Floyd Rose
- Neck Material
- Modern "C" neck (not specified)
- Fretboard Material
- 12" radius fingerboard (not specified)
- Pickup Configuration
- HSS
- Dimensions
- 42.1 × 15.3 × 4.7 inches
- Weight
- 13.9 pounds
View on Amazon: Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose
This Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose is a versatile electric guitar with a Modern "C" neck and rolled edges for comfortable playability. It features a humbucker and noiseless single-coil pickups, a coil-split tone control, and a Floyd Rose Special tremolo system for stable tuning during aggressive vibrato. This bundle includes a gig bag, strap, cable, picks, and a cleaning kit.
Pros
- Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo for stable tuning during dive bombs
- Coil-split push/pull tone control unlocks single-coil tones from the bridge humbucker
- Humbucker and noiseless Strat pickups deliver powerful, articulate tones without hum
- Modern "C" neck with rolled edges and 12" radius fingerboard for smooth playability
Cons
- No case included, only a gig bag
- Neck and fretboard materials not specified in the data
- Heavier than some other guitars on this list at 13.9 pounds
Good fit if
- You want a Stratocaster with a Floyd Rose tremolo for expressive pitch effects
- You prefer HSS pickup configuration for both humbucker power and single-coil chime
- You appreciate a bundle that includes essential accessories
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a fixed bridge for simpler tuning stability
- You prefer a lighter instrument for long playing sessions
- You want a guitar with a hard case instead of a gig bag
Verdict: Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose is a solid choice for players who want a versatile Strat with a locking tremolo, coil-split options, and noiseless pickups, all in a bundled package.
ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo
Best for: players wanting electric and acoustic tones in one guitar
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- ebony
- Dimensions
- 45 × 5 × 17 inches
- Weight
- 10 pounds
The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and a quilt maple top. It features an ebony fretboard and two humbucking pickups. The standout spec is the Fishman Powerbridge piezo system, which lets you blend acoustic-like tones with your electric sound. This guitar suits players who want both electric and acoustic tones from one instrument.
Pros
- Fishman Powerbridge piezo system for blended acoustic-electric tones
- Mahogany body with quilt maple top for resonance and looks
- Ebony fretboard for smooth playability
- Two humbucking pickups for versatile electric tones
Cons
- No Floyd Rose tremolo system listed
- Heavier than some competitors at 10 pounds
- Only two pickups limit tonal variety compared to HSS or HSH configurations
Good fit if
- You want a single guitar that can produce both electric and acoustic-style sounds
- You prefer a mahogany body and ebony fretboard for warm, articulate tone
- You like the look of a quilt maple top
Skip if
- You need a locking tremolo system for dive bombs and extreme whammy use
- You want a lighter guitar under 8 pounds for long sessions
- You prefer a multi-pickup configuration like HSS or HSH for more tonal options
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo is a versatile solidbody electric guitar that stands out with its Fishman Powerbridge piezo system, offering both electric and acoustic tones in one instrument. It is a strong choice for players who value tonal flexibility and classic construction.
Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue
Best for: traditional Les Paul styling with premium appointments
- Neck Material
- 1pc Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Body Type
- solid body
- Dimensions
- 44.1 × 15.7 × 6.1 inches
This is a solid-body electric guitar from Epiphone, part of the Inspired by Gibson Custom series. It features a mahogany body with a maple top and AAA flame maple veneer, a one-piece mahogany neck with a 59 rounded medium C profile, and a rosewood fretboard. It comes with a vintage-style hardshell case. This guitar suits players who want a classic Les Paul look and feel with premium appointments at a lower price point.
Pros
- Mahogany body with maple top and AAA flame maple veneer
- One-piece mahogany neck with 59 rounded medium C profile
- Rosewood fretboard with single-ply binding
- CTS pots with 50s era wiring and Mallory capacitors
- Vintage-style brown and pink hardshell case included
Cons
- No Floyd Rose or other tremolo system listed
- No piezo pickup or sustainiac system included
- Heavier than many modern solid-body guitars due to mahogany construction
Good fit if
- You want a vintage-style Les Paul with a AAA flame maple veneer
- You prefer a rounded medium C neck profile for comfortable chording
- You need a hardshell case included with the guitar
Skip if
- You require a Floyd Rose tremolo or other advanced bridge system
- You want a lighter guitar for extended playing sessions
- You need piezo pickups or active electronics for versatility
Verdict: Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue delivers classic Les Paul specs with a AAA flame maple veneer and a hardshell case, making it a strong choice for traditionalists.
Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac
Best for: metal and hard rock players who want active pickups and infinite sustain
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- 3-pc Mahogany
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 44 × 19 × 5 inches
- Weight
- 10 pounds
View on Amazon: Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac
The Schecter Hellraiser C-1 is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and a 3-pc mahogany neck. It features an active EMG humbucking pickup and a Sustainiac humbucking pickup, giving you both high-output distortion and infinite sustain. The Floyd Rose tremolo allows for dramatic pitch effects. At 10 pounds, it is a heavier guitar, suited for players who want aggressive tones and a locking vibrato system.
Pros
- Active EMG humbucking pickup for high-output, noise-free tone
- Sustainiac pickup provides infinite sustain without external effects
- Floyd Rose tremolo for stable, extreme pitch bending
- Solid mahogany body and 3-pc mahogany neck for resonance and sustain
Cons
- Weighs 10 pounds, heavier than many solidbody guitars
- No coil-splitting or passive pickup option listed for cleaner tones
- Limited to one active pickup configuration, which may not suit all styles
Good fit if
- You play metal, hard rock, or styles that benefit from high gain and long sustain
- You want a locking Floyd Rose tremolo for dive bombs and stable tuning
- You prefer active pickups for a tight, compressed sound
Skip if
- You prefer a lighter guitar for long playing sessions or gigs
- You need versatile pickup switching for clean or vintage tones
- You do not use a tremolo and want a fixed bridge for simplicity
Verdict: Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac is a heavy-duty metal guitar with active EMG pickups, a Sustainiac, and a Floyd Rose tremolo, making it a strong choice for players who want aggressive sustain and locking vibrato performance.
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602
Best for: metal players wanting a signature vibrato guitar
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Color
- Black
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 is a solidbody electric guitar built for aggressive playing. It has an alder body, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard. Two humbucking pickups and a vibrato bridge give you a full, expressive tone. This model suits metal and hard rock players who want a signature instrument with professional specs.
Pros
- Solidbody alder construction for balanced resonance and sustain
- Ebony fingerboard offers a smooth, fast playing surface
- Two humbucking pickups deliver high-output, thick tones
- Vibrato bridge allows for expressive pitch bends
- Maple neck provides stability and bright attack
Cons
- Available only in two color options: Black and Purple Sparkle
- No included case or gig bag listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You are a fan of Kirk Hammett and want a signature model
- You play metal or hard rock and need humbucking pickups
- You prefer an ebony fingerboard for fast lead work
Skip if
- You want a guitar with a fixed bridge for tuning stability
- You need a model with a maple or rosewood fingerboard instead of ebony
- You prefer a guitar with single-coil pickups for cleaner tones
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 is a solid signature model with alder body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, and dual humbuckers, suited for metal players who want a reliable vibrato-equipped guitar.
Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR
Best for: players wanting a relic HH guitar with a Floyd Rose
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Pau Ferro
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 42.1 × 15.2 × 4.5 inches
View on Amazon: Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR
The Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR is a solidbody electric guitar with an alder body and maple neck. It features a pau ferro fretboard, two humbucking pickups, and a Floyd Rose tremolo. This guitar suits players who want a relic-style look with high-output HH pickups and a locking tremolo system for aggressive playing.
Pros
- Solidbody alder construction for balanced resonance
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output HH configuration
- Floyd Rose tremolo for stable pitch effects
- Maple neck with pau ferro fretboard for smooth playability
- Relic finish in Weathered Orange for a vintage aesthetic
Cons
- No coil-splitting or additional pickup voicing options listed
- Weight of 13.4 pounds may be heavy for some players
Good fit if
- You want a relic-style guitar with a Floyd Rose tremolo
- You prefer a simple HH pickup setup without extra switching complexity
- You like the feel of a maple neck and pau ferro fretboard
Skip if
- You need a guitar with single-coil or HSS pickup configurations
- You prefer a lighter instrument under 10 pounds
- You want a modern finish without relic distressing
Verdict: Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR delivers a straightforward HH pickup layout with a Floyd Rose tremolo and relic styling, making it a solid choice for players who want a road-worn look and locking vibrato.
ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte, Snow White
Best for: metal rhythm players wanting a signature solidbody
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Active EMG Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 45 × 5 × 19 inches
View on Amazon: ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte, Snow White
The ESP LTD James Hetfield Signature Snakebyte is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and mahogany neck, paired with an ebony fingerboard. It runs two active EMG humbucking pickups in a Snow White finish. The all-mahogany construction gives you a heavy, focused voice suited to hard-rock and metal playing.
Pros
- Mahogany body and mahogany neck for a dense, dark tone
- Two active EMG humbucking pickups deliver high output
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth, fast playing surface
- Solidbody construction with a Snow White finish
Cons
- Weighs 12 pounds, heavier than many other solidbody guitars
- No tremolo or vibrato system listed in the specs
Good fit if
- You want a signature-model guitar built around Hetfield-style rhythm playing
- You prefer active EMG pickups for high-gain tones
- You like an all-mahogany neck-and-body combination
Skip if
- You want a lighter guitar for long standing sessions
- You need a tremolo bridge for dive-bomb effects
- You prefer passive pickups over active electronics
Verdict: ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte, Snow White is a focused metal rhythm guitar with a heavy mahogany build and dual active EMGs.
Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS 7-String
Best for: metal and hard rock players needing a 7-string with active pickups
- Body Material
- Nyatoh
- Neck Material
- Panga Panga/Walnut
- Fretboard Material
- Macassar Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Active Humbucking Pickups
- Number of Strings
- 7
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS is a 7-string solidbody electric guitar with a 25.5-inch scale length, a Nyatoh body, and a Panga Panga/Walnut neck. It comes with two active humbucking pickups and a Macassar Ebony fretboard. This guitar suits players who need an extended-range instrument with active electronics for heavy, articulate tones.
Pros
- Two active humbucking pickups for high-output, clear sound
- 25.5-inch scale length provides balanced tension for low tunings
- Macassar Ebony fretboard offers a smooth, durable playing surface
- Nyatoh body delivers a warm, resonant tone
Cons
- Heavy at 12.6 pounds, which may cause fatigue during long sessions
- No Floyd Rose or locking tremolo system included
- Matte finish may show wear and fingerprints more easily than gloss
Good fit if
- You play 7-string guitar and want active pickups for metal or hard rock
- You prefer a longer scale length for tighter low-end response
- You want a solidbody with a comfortable, modern neck construction
Skip if
- You prefer a 6-string guitar or do not need extended range
- You want a guitar with a vibrato or tremolo system
- You need a lighter instrument for portability or stage use
Verdict: Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS 7-String is a capable extended-range guitar with active pickups and a long scale length, best for players focused on heavy, articulate tones without a tremolo system.
ESP LTD M-1000 HT Solidbody Electric Guitar
Best for: metal players who want a fixed-bridge solidbody
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 42 × 18 × 4 inches
This is a solidbody electric guitar with an alder body, poplar top, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard. It comes with two humbucking pickups in a Black Fade finish. The M-1000 HT is suited for players who want a modern metal guitar with a sleek look and a fast-playing neck.
Pros
- Solidbody alder construction with a poplar top
- Maple neck and ebony fingerboard for fast playability
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output tone
- Available in two color options: Black and Black Fade
Cons
- No Floyd Rose or locking tremolo bridge included
- Heavier than some comparable models at 12 pounds
- Only two pickup configurations available
Good fit if
- You want a no-nonsense solidbody guitar for metal or hard rock
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability and simplicity
- You like the look of a black fade finish with ebony fingerboard
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a tremolo system or Floyd Rose bridge
- You want a lighter instrument for extended playing sessions
- You prefer a multi-pickup switching setup beyond two humbuckers
Verdict: ESP LTD M-1000 HT Solidbody Electric Guitar is a straightforward, high-performance solidbody for players who value a fast neck and humbucking power over extra hardware. It delivers a modern metal tone without the complexity of a tremolo system.
Fender American Professional II Stratocaster Left-Handed
Best for: Left-handed players seeking traditional Strat specs
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Maple
- Pickup Configuration
- 3 Single-coil Pickups
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- Left-handed
View on Amazon: Fender American Professional II Stratocaster Left-Handed
This left-handed Fender Stratocaster features an alder solidbody and a maple neck with a matching maple fingerboard. It uses three single-coil pickups for classic tone. The instrument measures 44.5 inches in length and 18 inches in width. It suits left-handed players seeking traditional specifications. The Olympic White finish provides a clean aesthetic. This model delivers reliable performance for standard playing styles.
Pros
- Left-handed orientation for specific player needs
- Alder solidbody construction for balanced resonance
- Maple neck with maple fingerboard for bright attack
- Three single-coil pickups for versatile tone
Cons
- Single-coil pickups only, lacking humbucker options
- Standard tremolo system, not a locking Floyd Rose
- Maple fingerboard may feel less smooth than rosewood
Good fit if
- You are a left-handed guitarist
- You prefer the bright tone of single-coil pickups
- You want a traditional Stratocaster configuration
Skip if
- You require a right-handed instrument
- You need a seven-string guitar
- You prefer heavy metal with humbuckers
Verdict: Fender American Professional II Stratocaster Left-Handed is a solid choice for left-handed players who value traditional specs and single-coil clarity over modern heavy-metal features.
Cort KX Series 700 Evertune
Best for: players needing EverTune stability and high-output pickups
- Body Material
- Ash Top on Mahogany
- Neck Material
- 5pcs Roasted Maple & Walnut
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Dimensions
- 5.91 × 13.8 × 41.3 inches
- Weight
- 6.61 pounds
The Cort KX Series 700 Evertune is a solid-body electric guitar built for players who want tuning stability and high-output pickups. It features an ash top on a mahogany body, a five-piece roasted maple and walnut neck, and an ebony fretboard. The Seymour Duncan Sentient and Nazgûl humbucker set covers a wide tonal range, while the EverTune bridge keeps your tuning locked in. At 6.61 pounds, it is relatively lightweight.
Pros
- EverTune bridge for rock-solid tuning stability
- Seymour Duncan Sentient and Nazgûl humbucker set
- Five-piece roasted maple and walnut neck
- Stainless steel frets for long wear
- Ash top on mahogany body for balanced tone
Cons
- No Floyd Rose or whammy bar option
- Open pore finish may show wear more easily than gloss
- Limited color choice (Open Pore Black only)
Good fit if
- You want a guitar that stays in tune through heavy playing
- You prefer high-output pickups for metal or hard rock
- You value a lightweight guitar under 7 pounds
Skip if
- You need a tremolo system for dive bombs and pitch effects
- You want a guitar with multiple finish options
- You prefer a gloss or satin finished body
Verdict: Cort KX Series 700 Evertune is a practical choice for players who prioritize tuning stability and high-output pickups, with a lightweight build and durable stainless steel frets.
PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String, Holcomb Blue
Best for: modern metal and 7-string players
- Neck Material
- maple
- Number of Strings
- 7
- Number of Frets
- 24
- Scale Length
- 26.5"
- Color
- Blue
View on Amazon: PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String, Holcomb Blue
The PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN is a 7-string electric guitar designed for modern metal and extended-range playing. It features a 26.5-inch scale length for tight low-end response, a maple neck with a wide thin profile, and 24 frets. The signature Seymour Duncan Scarlet and Scourge pickups deliver high output with clarity, and a push/pull tone knob enables coil tapping for single-coil tones. This guitar suits players who need a dedicated 7-string with a fast neck and versatile pickups.
Pros
- 26.5-inch scale length provides excellent string tension for low tunings
- Seymour Duncan Scarlet and Scourge 7-string pickups for high output and articulation
- 3-way blade switch with push/pull coil tapping for expanded tonal options
- 24-fret wide thin satin maple neck for fast playability
Cons
- No Floyd Rose or tremolo system listed
- 7-string setup may be overkill for players who only use 6-string guitars
- Limited to one finish option (Holcomb Blue)
Good fit if
- You play 7-string guitar and need a 26.5-inch scale for drop tunings
- You want signature pickups voiced for modern metal and progressive rock
- You prefer a thin, satin-finished maple neck for speed
Skip if
- You only play 6-string guitars and have no need for an extra string
- You require a locking tremolo system for dive bombs and pitch effects
- You want a guitar with a gloss-finished neck or a thicker neck profile
Verdict: PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String, Holcomb Blue is a focused 7-string electric guitar built for extended-range metal and progressive playing, with a long scale length and versatile pickup system.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin | Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White | Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red with Hard Case | Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose | ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo | Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue | Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 | Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR | ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte, Snow White | Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS 7-String | ESP LTD M-1000 HT Solidbody Electric Guitar | Fender American Professional II Stratocaster Left-Handed | Cort KX Series 700 Evertune | PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String, Holcomb Blue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | mahogany | not specified | not specified | not specified | mahogany | not specified | Mahogany | Alder | Alder | Mahogany | Nyatoh | Alder | Alder | Ash Top on Mahogany | not specified |
| Neck Material | mahogany | not specified | not specified | Modern "C" neck (not specified) | not specified | 1pc Mahogany | 3-pc Mahogany | Maple | Maple | Mahogany | Panga Panga/Walnut | Maple | Maple | 5pcs Roasted Maple & Walnut | maple |
| Fretboard Material | ebony | not specified | not specified | 12" radius fingerboard (not specified) | ebony | Rosewood | not specified | Ebony | Pau Ferro | Ebony | Macassar Ebony | Ebony | Maple | Ebony | not specified |
| Pickup Configuration | 2 active humbucking pickups | Gibson 490/498 Humbucker set | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 Active EMG Humbucking Pickups | 2 Active Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 3 Single-coil Pickups | not specified | not specified |
| Number of Strings | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 7 | not specified | 6 | not specified | 7 |
| Hand Orientation | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Left-handed | not specified | not specified |
| Body Type | solidbody | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | solid body | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | not specified | not specified |
| Number of Frets | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 24 |
| Scale Length | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 25.5 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified | 26.5" |
| Color | Black | Alpine White | Cherry Red | 3-Color Sunburst | See Thru Black | Deep Cherry Sunburst | Black Cherry | Black | Weathered Orange | Snow White | Black Aurora Burst Matte | Black Fade | Olympic White | Open Pore Black | Blue |
| Dimensions | 44 × 16 × 6 inches | 43.8 × 15.8 × 5.91 inches | 47.2 × 19.7 × 6.3 inches | 42.1 × 15.3 × 4.7 inches | 45 × 5 × 17 inches | 44.1 × 15.7 × 6.1 inches | 44 × 19 × 5 inches | 51 × 6 × 18 inches | 42.1 × 15.2 × 4.5 inches | 45 × 5 × 19 inches | 43.5 × 17.5 × 4.5 inches | 42 × 18 × 4 inches | 44.5 × 18 × 6 inches | 5.91 × 13.8 × 41.3 inches | not specified |
| Weight | 12 pounds | 19.4 pounds | not specified | 13.9 pounds | 10 pounds | not specified | 10 pounds | not specified | 13.4 pounds | 12 pounds | 12.6 pounds | 12 pounds | not specified | 6.61 pounds | not specified |
| Model | LEC1000ETBBBLKS | ECLPCAWGH1 | EC35559CHVGH | 147440300 | LEC1000PIEZOQMSTBLK | ECLPR9DCNH1 | 1826 | LKH602 | PMRELSD1HHFRMWOR | LSNAKEBYTESW | RGD71ALMSBAM | LM1000HTBPBLKFD | 0113932705 | KX700OPBK | 116257::HL: |
| Size | not specified | not specified | Full Size | 42.1x15.3x4.7 inches | Piezo | full-size | 44 inches | KH-602 | 4.50 | 45 inches | 25.5 inches | not specified | not specified | Full | 26.5 inches |
What you give up at this price
All guitars in this list are solidbody or semi-hollow electrics with 6 or 7 strings, right-handed orientation, and passive or active humbuckers. The data shows no models offer 8 strings, left-handed builds, or single-coil-only pickup configurations. Fretboard materials are limited to ebony and rosewood; maple necks appear only on the ESP LTD KH-602 and Charvel Pro-Mod. Color choices are mostly black, sunburst, or red; only the PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN offers blue. Hard cases are included only with Epiphone models and the ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo. No guitar has a built-in tuner or wireless system.
- No 8-string or left-handed models available
- Fretboard materials are ebony or rosewood only
- Limited color options: mostly black, sunburst, red
- Hard case included with only four of the fifteen guitars
If you are also furnishing a home, you can evaluate the best bathtubs under 1500 by material specifications.
How we picked
We selected electric guitars from Amazon listings priced under $1500. Products are ordered by availability first, then by overall rating weighted by number of ratings, and finally by how many of our criteria the specs meet. Only one size or variant of the same product family is shown.
All details come from published specifications and feature lists. We do not handle the products. Prices and stock are displayed live on the page and refreshed 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 fluctuate.
How to choose the right one
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Pickup type
Pickups determine your core tone. Active pickups like EMG or Fishman produce higher output and are common on metal-focused models such as the Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac. Passive pickups like Gibson or Fender deliver more dynamic, classic tones. Check the pickup configuration in the specs. If you play metal, look for active humbuckers. For blues, rock, or clean tones, passive pickups are a better match.
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Number of strings
Most guitars in this list are 6-string, but there are several 7-string options. The Schecter C-7 SLS Evil Twin, Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS, and PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN each add a low B string for extended range. If you play modern metal or progressive rock, a 7-string gives you deeper chugs and wider chord voicings. For standard rock or blues, stick with 6 strings.
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Bridge system
The bridge affects tuning stability and playing feel. Floyd Rose locking tremolos let you dive-bomb and bend without going out of tune, as seen on the Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose and Charvel Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 HH FR. Fixed bridges like the one on the ESP LTD M-1000 HT are simpler, more stable, and easier to restring. Choose a tremolo if you use the bar often; choose fixed for reliability.
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Body type and weight
Body type influences comfort and tone. Solidbody guitars like the Epiphone Les Paul Custom and ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune are heavy but sustain well. Semi-hollow models like the Epiphone 1959 ES-355 are lighter and produce warmer, airier tones. Check the weight in the specs. The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo weighs 10 pounds, while the Epiphone Les Paul Custom weighs 19.4 pounds. Heavier guitars can cause shoulder fatigue during long sessions.
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Fretboard material
Fretboard wood affects feel and tone. Ebony fingerboards, found on the ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune and the ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602, offer a smooth, fast feel with bright attack. Rosewood or laurel are common on other models and provide a warmer, more rounded response. If you play fast leads or want a slick surface, ebony is a good choice. For a classic feel, rosewood works well.
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Special features
Some guitars include extra hardware that expands your tonal options. The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo has a Fishman Powerbridge piezo system that blends electric and acoustic sounds. The Schecter Hellraiser C-1 Floyd Rose Sustainiac includes a Sustainiac pickup for infinite feedback. The Cort KX Series 700 Evertune uses an EverTune bridge to keep every string in tune regardless of temperature or string tension. Decide if you need these extras before buying.
Frequently asked questions
Which electric guitar under $1500 has the lightest weight?
The Cort KX Series 700 Evertune is the lightest option, weighing just 6.61 pounds. This makes it ideal for long practice sessions or live performances where comfort matters. Most other models on the list weigh between 10 and 19.4 pounds, so this Cort stands out for its lightweight build.
What is the shortest electric guitar in this price range?
The Fender Player II Modified Stratocaster HSS Floyd Rose is the shortest instrument at 42.1 inches in length. Its compact size offers a different feel compared to standard full-size guitars. This model also features a Floyd Rose tremolo and coil-split options for versatile tonal control.
Which guitar includes a hard case in the box?
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White comes with a hard case included. This adds value for players who need immediate protection for their instrument. The Epiphone 1959 ES-355 Cherry Red and the Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard Reissue also include hardshell cases in their packages.
Can I get a seven-string electric guitar under $1500?
Yes, the Ibanez Axion Label RGD71ALMS 7-String and the PRS SE Mark Holcomb SVN 7-String are available. These models offer extended range for metal and progressive styles. The Ibanez features active pickups, while the PRS offers a versatile pickup system suitable for modern heavy tones.
Which guitar offers both electric and acoustic tones?
The ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo includes a Fishman Powerbridge piezo system. This allows you to switch between standard electric humbucker tones and acoustic-like sounds. It is a solidbody guitar with an ebony fingerboard, making it a unique choice for players who need tonal flexibility in one instrument.
What is the heaviest electric guitar on this list?
The Epiphone Les Paul Custom Alpine White is the heaviest, weighing 19.4 pounds. Its substantial weight comes from its classic Les Paul construction and Gibson-spec pickups. This density can contribute to sustain and tone, though it may be less comfortable for extended standing performances.