15 Best Electric Guitars Under $500, Compared
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We compared 15 models to find the best electric guitars under $500. The Enya Nova Go Sonic 38" Carbon Smart Electric Guitar leads our list because its built-in speaker and four presets make it a self-contained practice and performance guitar. Our picks are based solely on the specifications published on each product listing. This guide helps you decide which guitar fits your playing style, budget, and needs.
Our top pick: Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You want the most compact model on the list Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar It measures 43.1 inches long and weighs 7.28 pounds for easy transport.
- You need a reliable left-handed instrument Ibanez AZES40 Left-handed Electric Guitar This Ibanez model is built for left-handed players seeking versatile pickups.
- You are starting out and want a complete kit Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster Bundle The bundle includes a gig bag and accessories for immediate playability.
- You require extended range for lower tuning ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String This 7-string guitar provides a solid workhorse for extended-range playing.
Our 15 picks
Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar
Best for: Portable practice and direct digital recording
- Fretboard Material
- Carbon Fiber
- Pickup Configuration
- SSH
- Number of Frets
- 24
- Color
- Blue
- Dimensions
- 43.1 × 5.81 × 25 inches
- Weight
- 7.28 pounds
The Enya Inspire is a 39-inch electric guitar built from aerospace-grade carbon fiber. It features a 15-watt built-in speaker with 8-10 hours of playtime. The SSH pickup system offers single-coil and humbucker tones. You get Bluetooth app control for 32 presets and direct USB-C recording. This all-in-one instrument suits players seeking portable, tech-integrated practice solutions.
Pros
- Aerospace-grade carbon fiber body resists humidity changes
- Built-in 15W speaker provides 8-10 hours of battery life
- SSH pickup system delivers crisp single-coil and humbucker tones
- Bluetooth connectivity allows app control for 32 presets
- Direct USB-C recording capability for studio-quality capture
Cons
- Heavier at 7.28 pounds compared to traditional wood guitars
- Requires smartphone or computer for full feature access
- 39-inch scale length may feel short for some players
Good fit if
- You want a portable guitar with built-in amplification
- You prefer a weather-resistant carbon fiber construction
- You need direct digital recording via USB-C
Skip if
- You require a traditional wood body and neck
- You want to play without using a mobile device
- You prefer a standard 25.5-inch scale length
Verdict: The Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar fits players who need a durable, portable instrument with integrated digital tools. It is ideal for practice and recording where traditional amps are impractical.
Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Natural
Best for: Vintage-style Stratocaster tone on a budget
- Fretboard Material
- Laurel
- Hand Orientation
- Right
- Color
- Natural
- Dimensions
- 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 8.38 pounds
View on Amazon: Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Natural
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster is a full-size right-handed electric guitar with a natural finish and a laurel fingerboard. It features Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups and a vintage-tinted gloss neck, inspired by 1970s Stratocaster models. This guitar suits players who want a classic look and tone at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups for vintage-style tone
- Vintage-tinted gloss neck finish for a classic feel
- Nickel-plated hardware for durability and retro look
- Full-size body at 8.38 pounds for a substantial playing experience
Cons
- Laurel fingerboard instead of rosewood or maple
- No included accessories like a case or strap
Good fit if
- You want a Stratocaster with a natural wood finish
- You prefer vintage-inspired specs from the 1970s era
- You need a full-size guitar under $500
Skip if
- You want a left-handed guitar
- You need a travel or compact-size electric guitar
Verdict: Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Natural is a solid choice for players seeking a vintage-style Stratocaster with alnico pickups and a natural finish, all within a budget-friendly price range.
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS24 DKAM
Best for: budget-minded players wanting a fast, stable Jackson
- Body Material
- mahogany
- Neck Material
- caramelized maple
- Fretboard Material
- caramelized maple
- Body Type
- solid body
- Number of Frets
- 24
- Scale Length
- 25.5"
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS24 DKAM is a solid-body electric guitar with a mahogany body and arched top. It features a 25.5" scale length, a caramelized maple neck and fingerboard, and 24 jumbo frets. Dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups handle a range of tones. This bundle includes a cable, strap, tuner, and picks. It suits players who want a stable, fast-playing guitar with high-output pickups.
Pros
- Mahogany body with arched top for resonance and stability
- Caramelized maple neck with scarf joint and graphite reinforcement
- 24 jumbo frets on a 12"-16" compound radius fingerboard
- Dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups
- Bundle includes cable, strap, tuner, and picks
Cons
- No tremolo bridge or whammy bar included
- Only one volume and one tone control for limited shaping
- No locking tuners or other premium hardware
Good fit if
- You want a budget-friendly Jackson with a fast-playing neck and 24 frets
- You prefer a simple control layout with high-output humbuckers
- You need a complete starter bundle with accessories
Skip if
- You want a guitar with a tremolo system
- You prefer single-coil pickups or a wider tonal palette
- You need a left-handed model (not listed in variations)
Verdict: Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS24 DKAM is a solid budget choice for players who want a stable, fast-playing guitar with high-output humbuckers and a complete accessory bundle. It lacks a tremolo and has basic controls, but the build quality and specs deliver good value for the price.
Jackson JS Series King V JS32
Best for: metal players wanting a V-shaped guitar with humbuckers
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Amaranth
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Color
- Black
The Jackson JS Series King V JS32 is a solidbody electric guitar with a poplar body and maple neck. It features two humbucking pickups and an amaranth fingerboard. This large, gloss black V-shaped guitar suits players who want an aggressive look and high-output pickups for metal or hard rock.
Pros
- Solidbody poplar construction for durability
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output tone
- Maple neck and amaranth fingerboard for smooth playability
- Vibrato tailpiece for expressive pitch effects
Cons
- Large V-shaped body may be awkward for seated playing
- No included case or gig bag
- Limited finish options (gloss black only)
Good fit if
- You want a classic metal V-shaped guitar under $500
- You prefer dual humbuckers for heavy distortion
- You like a vibrato bridge for dive bombs and bends
Skip if
- You need a comfortable guitar for playing while seated
- You prefer single-coil pickups for cleaner tones
- You want a lighter or smaller-bodied guitar
Verdict: Jackson JS Series King V JS32 is a solid choice if you want an affordable V-shaped electric guitar with dual humbuckers and a vibrato tailpiece for metal and hard rock.
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang
Best for: vintage Mustang tone and Fender design under $500
- Hand Orientation
- Right
- Fretboard Material
- Laurel
- Dimensions
- 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 11 pounds
The Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang is a full-size electric guitar inspired by 1960s-era Mustang models. It features Fender-Designed alnico pickups, a vintage-tinted gloss neck finish, and nickel-plated hardware. The laurel fretboard and Sonic Blue finish give it a classic look. This guitar suits players who want vintage style and reliable build quality in an affordable package.
Pros
- 100% designed by Fender
- Fender-Designed alnico pickups
- Vintage-tinted gloss neck finish
- Nickel-plated hardware
- Available in four color options
Cons
- Right-hand orientation only
- No included accessories or case
Good fit if
- You want a vintage-inspired Mustang with authentic Fender design
- You prefer alnico pickups for classic tone
- You like a glossy neck finish for a retro feel
Skip if
- You need a left-handed guitar
- You want a guitar with modern features like a built-in tuner or speaker
Verdict: Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang delivers authentic Fender design and vintage specs at a budget-friendly price, making it a strong choice for players seeking classic Mustang style.
Ibanez AZES40 Left-handed Electric Guitar
Best for: left-handed players seeking versatile pickups under $500
- Fretboard Material
- jatoba
- Hand Orientation
- left-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
- Dimensions
- 42.5 × 12.8 × 3.6 inches
- Weight
- 8.82 pounds
The Ibanez AZES40 is a solid-body left-handed electric guitar in Purist Blue. It has a jatoba fingerboard, two single-coil pickups, and one humbucking pickup. This guitar weighs 8.82 pounds and is 42.5 inches long. It is a practical choice for left-handed players seeking a versatile pickup configuration under $500.
Pros
- Left-handed orientation for southpaw players
- Two single-coil and one humbucking pickup for tonal variety
- Solid body construction for durability
- Jatoba fingerboard offers a bright, responsive feel
Cons
- Only available in left-handed configuration, limiting right-handed use
- No included case or gig bag listed in specs
- Heavier than some competitors at 8.82 pounds
Good fit if
- You are a left-handed guitarist looking for an affordable solid-body electric
- You want a mix of single-coil and humbucking pickups for different tones
- You prefer a jatoba fingerboard for its bright sound and smooth play
Skip if
- You are right-handed and need a standard orientation guitar
- You need a lightweight guitar under 8 pounds
- You want a guitar with a tremolo system or locking tuners
Verdict: Ibanez AZES40 Left-handed Electric Guitar is a solid choice for left-handed players who want versatile pickups and a durable build at a budget-friendly price point.
Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe
Best for: players wanting a headless solid-body with locking tremolo
- Body Material
- Maple
- Neck Material
- 3-piece hard maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- Humbucker, Single Coil, Humbucker
- Hand Orientation
- Right Handed
- Body Type
- Solid-Body
The Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe is a solid-body electric guitar with a 25.5-inch scale length and a 3-piece hard maple neck. It features a humbucker, single coil, humbucker pickup configuration controlled by a 5-way selector. This guitar suits players who want a compact, headless design with a locking tremolo system.
Pros
- Thru-neck design with 3-piece hard maple neck for stability
- Humbucker, single coil, humbucker pickup setup for versatile tones
- R-Trem Locking Tremolo with 40:1 ratio direct pull tuners
- Maple body and top with rosewood fingerboard
Cons
- No included case or gig bag listed in specs
- Limited color options (Black, Frost Blue, Natural) without other finishes
Good fit if
- You want a solid-body guitar with a locking tremolo system
- You prefer a headless design for easier portability
- You need a versatile pickup configuration with a 5-way selector
Skip if
- You want a guitar with a traditional headstock
- You need a left-handed model (only available in right-handed orientation per specs)
Verdict: Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe is a solid-body electric guitar with a locking tremolo and versatile HSH pickups, ideal for players seeking a compact, headless design under $500.
Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster Left-Handed
Best for: left-handed players wanting a classic Telecaster
- Fretboard Material
- Maple
- Pickup Configuration
- Fender-Designed alnico pickups
- Hand Orientation
- Left-Handed
- Dimensions
- 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches
- Weight
- 10.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster Left-Handed
The Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster is a full-size left-handed electric guitar with a maple fingerboard and Fender-Designed alnico pickups. It draws from 1950s-era Telecaster models and includes a vintage-tint gloss neck finish and nickel-plated hardware. It suits left-handed players who want a classic single-cut look and traditional Telecaster tone in an affordable package.
Pros
- Fender-Designed alnico pickups
- Vintage-tint gloss neck finish
- Nickel-plated hardware
- Maple fingerboard
- Left-handed configuration
Cons
- Weighs 10.5 pounds, which is heavier than some compact models
- No included accessories listed in the specs
Good fit if
- You are a left-handed player
- You want a full-size Telecaster with 1950s styling
- You prefer maple fingerboards
Skip if
- You need a right-handed guitar
- You want a lightweight or travel-friendly instrument
- You expect a bundled gig bag or cable
Verdict: Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster Left-Handed is a solid left-handed Telecaster option with vintage-inspired details and Fender-designed pickups.
Jackson King V JS32T Right-Handed
Best for: Players needing high-output tone and speed
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- maple
- Fretboard Material
- amaranth
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid body
The Jackson King V JS32T is a solid-body electric guitar designed for right-handed players. It features a poplar body and a 25.5-inch scale length. The neck is one-piece maple with an amaranth fingerboard. You get 24 frets and dual high-output humbucking pickups. This setup provides a bright tone and extended reach. It suits players seeking aggressive sound and fast playability.
Pros
- Poplar solid body construction
- 25.5-inch scale length for tight string tension
- One-piece maple neck with amaranth fingerboard
- Dual high-output humbucking pickups
- 24 frets for extended range
Cons
- Case not included
- Weighs 1 pound, which is unusually light
- Limited to right-handed orientation
Good fit if
- You want a high-output tone for heavy genres
- You prefer a fast-playing 24-fret neck
- You play right-handed
Skip if
- You need a left-handed model
- You prefer a vintage 21-fret neck
- You want a heavier, thicker body sound
Verdict: The Jackson King V JS32T 6-String offers a lightweight build and aggressive tone for players who need speed and output. It fits those who prioritize high-output pickups and a long scale length for their playing style.
ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String
Best for: 7-string players needing a solid workhorse
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Number of Strings
- 7
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD M-207B DX is a 7-string solidbody electric guitar with a poplar body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard. It comes with two humbucking pickups and a See-thru Black Satin finish. If you want to play lower tunings or extended-range parts, this guitar gives you the extra string and a straightforward, practical setup.
Pros
- 7-string design for extended low range
- Two humbucking pickups for a thick sound
- Poplar body with maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
Cons
- Weight is listed at 9.6 pounds, which some players may find heavy
- Color options are limited to See Thru Black Satin and Crimson Satin
Good fit if
- You want a 7-string guitar for lower tunings
- You prefer a solidbody with dual humbuckers
- You like a satin finish look
Skip if
- You want a six-string guitar
- You prefer a lighter instrument
- You need a wider variety of finish options
Verdict: ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String Electric Guitar is a solid choice for players wanting to explore extended-range playing without extra frills.
Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster Bundle
Best for: New players wanting a ready-to-play Stratocaster bundle
View on Amazon: Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster Bundle
This Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster arrives as a bundle with a Fender midnight blue gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, strings, instrument cable, and an instructional DVD. It uses vintage-style hardware and a slim "C"-shaped neck. The two-color sunburst finish and classic Stratocaster pickups give you versatile tones. It suits new players who want a complete setup.
Pros
- Vintage-style hardware adds authentic 1950s details
- Slim "C"-shaped neck profile for comfortable playability
- Bundle includes gig bag, tuner, strap, picks, strings, cable, and DVD
- Gig bag has 400 Denier polyester, 5mm padding, and extra storage
Cons
- No listed pickup or bridge specifications
- Color options vary by model; this version is 2-Color Sunburst
Good fit if
- You want a classic Stratocaster look and sound
- You are a new player who wants a complete bundle
- You prefer a slim neck profile for comfort
Skip if
- You need a guitar with detailed pickup specs
- You want a different body style like a Telecaster or Jaguar
Verdict: Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster Bundle is a complete vintage-style package with a gig bag and accessories, built for easy playability and versatile tones.
Jackson King V JS32T Electric Guitar
Best for: metal players wanting a V-shaped guitar with a tremolo
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Amaranth
- Number of Frets
- 24
- Dimensions
- 40 × 4 × 16 inches
The Jackson King V JS32T is a bold V-shaped electric guitar with a poplar body and a bolt-on maple speed neck with graphite reinforcement. It has 24 jumbo frets on a compound-radius amaranth fingerboard and dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups. This bundle includes a cable, tuner, strap, picks, and an instructional DVD. It suits players who want an aggressive look and playability at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Bolt-on maple speed neck with graphite reinforcement for stability
- 24 jumbo frets on a 12"-16" compound-radius amaranth fingerboard
- Dual Jackson high-output humbucking pickups with ceramic magnets
- Floyd Rose double-locking tremolo bridge for dive bombs
- Bundle includes cable, tuner, strap, picks, and instructional DVD
Cons
- Poplar body is a less premium wood than alder or mahogany
- No locking tuners listed, which can affect tuning stability with tremolo use
- V-shaped body may be less comfortable for seated playing
Good fit if
- You want a classic V-shaped electric guitar for metal or hard rock
- You need a Floyd Rose tremolo system for pitch effects
- You prefer a fast-playing neck with 24 jumbo frets
Skip if
- You prefer a more traditional or ergonomic body shape
- You want a guitar with a fixed bridge for simpler tuning maintenance
- You need a left-handed model (only available in select colors)
Verdict: Jackson King V JS32T Electric Guitar offers an aggressive V shape, 24 jumbo frets, and a Floyd Rose tremolo at an accessible price point, making it a solid choice for metal players on a budget.
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32 DKA
Best for: budget-minded rock and metal players
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Amaranth
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Color
- Black
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32 DKA is a solidbody electric guitar with a poplar body and maple neck. It features an amaranth fingerboard and two humbucking pickups. This guitar suits players who want a dark, aggressive look and a versatile dual-humbucker tone for rock and metal at a budget-friendly price.
Pros
- Solidbody poplar construction for durability and resonance
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output, versatile tones
- Maple neck for stability and bright response
- Amaranth fingerboard offers a smooth playing feel
Cons
- No included case or gig bag for transport
- Limited color option available only in satin black
- No tremolo system listed for pitch effects
Good fit if
- You want a solidbody electric guitar with dual humbuckers for rock or metal
- You prefer a satin black finish and a simple, no-frills design
- You are on a budget and need a reliable entry-level instrument
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a tremolo bar or whammy bar
- You want a lighter or smaller guitar for travel or easy portability
- You prefer a natural wood finish or a wider color selection
Verdict: Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32 DKA is a straightforward solidbody electric guitar with dual humbuckers and a poplar body, ideal for budget-conscious players focused on rock and metal tones.
Jackson JS Series Rhoads JS32T
Best for: Metal players wanting a V-shaped guitar on a budget
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Amaranth
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 51.2 × 22.7 × 5.47 inches
The Jackson JS Series Rhoads JS32T is a solidbody electric guitar with a basswood body and maple neck. Its amaranth fingerboard and dual humbucking pickups deliver a heavy, aggressive tone. The string-through hardtail bridge provides stable tuning and sustain. This guitar suits players looking for a classic metal shape at an affordable price.
Pros
- Dual humbucking pickups for high-output sound
- Basswood body keeps weight manageable
- String-through hardtail bridge for tuning stability
- Maple neck with amaranth fingerboard
Cons
- No tremolo system for pitch effects
- Extreme V shape may be awkward to play seated
- No included case or gig bag
Good fit if
- You play metal or hard rock and want an aggressive V-shaped guitar
- You prefer a fixed bridge for reliable tuning
- You want a lightweight solidbody under $500
Skip if
- You need a tremolo bar for dive bombs and vibrato
- You find V-shaped guitars uncomfortable to play sitting down
- You want a more traditional or ergonomic body shape
Verdict: Jackson JS Series Rhoads JS32T delivers a classic metal V design with dual humbuckers and a fixed bridge, all at a budget-friendly price. It is a solid choice for players who prioritize aggressive looks and stable tuning.
Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster, Laurel
Best for: vintage Jazzmaster style players
- Fretboard Material
- Laurel
- Pickup Configuration
- Fender-designed Alnico pickups
- Dimensions
- 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches
This is a full-size electric guitar inspired by 1960s Jazzmaster models. It features Fender-designed Alnico pickups and a laurel fingerboard. The body measures 15 inches wide and 44.5 inches long. Nickel-plated hardware and a vintage-tinted gloss neck finish complete the build. You get a 3-color sunburst option among three color choices. This instrument suits players seeking vintage aesthetics and classic tone.
Pros
- Fender-designed Alnico pickups
- Laurel fingerboard
- Nickel-plated hardware
- Vintage-tinted gloss neck finish
Cons
- Laurel fingerboard is less common than rosewood or maple
- No built-in electronics or smart features
- Standard full-size body may be large for smaller players
Good fit if
- You want a vintage-inspired Jazzmaster look
- You prefer Alnico pickup tone
- You like nickel-plated hardware
Skip if
- You need a smaller body size
- You require modern smart features
- You prefer rosewood or maple fretboards
Verdict: Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster offers a faithful vintage design with Alnico pickups. It fits players who value classic aesthetics and traditional build quality over modern tech.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar | Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Natural | Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS24 DKAM | Jackson JS Series King V JS32 | Squier Classic Vibe 60s Mustang | Ibanez AZES40 Left-handed Electric Guitar | Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe | Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster Left-Handed | Jackson King V JS32T Right-Handed | ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String | Fender Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster Bundle | Jackson King V JS32T Electric Guitar | Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS32 DKA | Jackson JS Series Rhoads JS32T | Squier Classic Vibe 60s Jazzmaster, Laurel |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | not specified | not specified | mahogany | Poplar | not specified | not specified | Maple | not specified | Poplar | Poplar | not specified | Poplar | Poplar | Basswood | not specified |
| Neck Material | not specified | not specified | caramelized maple | Maple | not specified | not specified | 3-piece hard maple | not specified | maple | Maple | not specified | Maple | Maple | Maple | not specified |
| Fretboard Material | Carbon Fiber | Laurel | caramelized maple | Amaranth | not specified | jatoba | Rosewood | Maple | amaranth | Rosewood | not specified | Amaranth | Amaranth | Amaranth | Laurel |
| Pickup Configuration | SSH | not specified | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | not specified | Humbucker, Single Coil, Humbucker | Fender-Designed alnico pickups | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | Fender-designed Alnico pickups |
| Number of Strings | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6 | 7 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Hand Orientation | not specified | Right | not specified | not specified | Right | left-handed | Right Handed | Left-Handed | right-handed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Body Type | not specified | not specified | solid body | Solidbody | not specified | solid body | Solid-Body | not specified | solid body | Solidbody | not specified | not specified | Solidbody | Solidbody | not specified |
| Number of Frets | 24 | not specified | 24 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 24 | not specified | not specified | 24 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Scale Length | not specified | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | not specified | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Blue | Natural | Black Stain | Black | Sonic Blue | Purist Blue | Black | Butterscotch Blonde | Red | See Thru Black Satin | 2-Color Sunburst | Ferrari Red | Black | White with Black Bevels | 3-Color Sunburst |
| Dimensions | 43.1 × 5.81 × 25 inches | 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches | 40 × 4 × 16 inches | 51 × 23.2 × 5.2 inches | 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches | 42.5 × 12.8 × 3.6 inches | 44 × 18 × 8 inches | 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches | 48 × 5 × 24 inches | 44 × 16 × 4 inches | not specified | 40 × 4 × 16 inches | 44.5 × 19 × 5.24 inches | 51.2 × 22.7 × 5.47 inches | 44.5 × 15 × 4 inches |
| Weight | 7.28 pounds | 8.38 pounds | not specified | 1 pounds | 11 pounds | 8.82 pounds | not specified | 10.5 pounds | 1 pounds | 9.6 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1 pounds | not specified |
| Size | INSPIRE | Full | 40 inches | Large | Full | 42.5 inches | Right Handed | Full | not specified | not specified | '50s Stratocaster | not specified | not specified | not specified | Full |
| Model | INSPIRE-BL | 374020521 | not specified | JS32KVAHFBGB | 374080572 | AZES40LPRB | GTPROBK1 | 0374035550 | JS32T KV F.RED AM FB | LM207BDXSTBLKS | AUS-0374005500-COMBO-DLX-V2 | not specified | 00073-00105932 | 00073-00106758 | 0374083500 |
What you give up under $500
Most guitars in this price range share common limitations. You will see fewer premium appointments. Fretboard materials are often laurel rather than rosewood or ebony. Pickup configurations are basic, typically two humbuckers or three single-coils, without advanced switching. Body wood is usually poplar or basswood, not mahogany or alder. Many models lack a tremolo bridge. Left-handed options are limited to a few Squier and Ibanez models. 7-string models are rare, with only one ESP LTD in the list. Colors are mostly black, sunburst, or natural finishes.
- Fretboard material: laurel or unspecified, not rosewood or ebony
- Pickup configuration: basic HSS, SSS, or HH, no coil-splitting or advanced wiring
- Body wood: poplar or basswood, not mahogany or alder
- Tremolo bridge: many models have a fixed bridge or no tremolo
If you also compare home appliances, you can examine specifications for the best dishwashers under 500.
How We Picked
We built this list from Amazon listings that currently fall in the Under $500 price range. Each product must meet that price point at the time of selection. Listings are ordered first by availability, then by overall customer rating weighted by the number of ratings, and finally by how many of our buying criteria the published specs satisfy. We show only one size or variant per product family to keep the list clear.
All details come directly from the specifications and feature lists on each listing. We do not physically handle the guitars. Prices and stock are shown live on the page and refresh at least daily, so a product can move in or out of this guide as its price changes. This method keeps the list practical and current for your budget.
How to Choose the Right Electric Guitar Under $500
-
Check the number of strings
Most electric guitars have six strings, but if you play metal or want extended range, a seven-string model like the ESP LTD M-207B DX gives you a lower B string for heavier riffs. Stick with six strings for standard rock, blues, or pop. Always confirm the string count in the specs before buying.
-
Consider hand orientation
If you are left-handed, look for a model built specifically for lefties, such as the Ibanez AZES40 or the Squier Classic Vibe 50s Telecaster Left-Handed. A left-handed guitar has the strap button, controls, and nut reversed. Playing a right-handed guitar upside down is possible but changes the ergonomics and control access.
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Pick your body type
Full-size bodies like those on Squier Classic Vibe models offer a traditional feel and balance. Compact or headless designs, such as the Donner HUSH X PRO, are lighter and easier to travel with. Solid-body guitars like the Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe resist feedback at high volumes, while thinner bodies are more portable.
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Decide on pickup configuration
Pickups shape your sound. Single-coils, found on many Squier Stratocasters, deliver bright, clear tones for blues and rock. Humbuckers, like those on the Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top, produce a thicker, quieter sound ideal for metal and hard rock. Some models offer HSH (humbucker-single-humbucker) for versatility. Choose based on the genres you play most.
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Look at weight and portability
Weight affects comfort during long sessions. A travel model like the Donner HUSH X PRO weighs only 5.51 pounds, making it easy to carry. Full-size guitars range from about 8 to 11 pounds. Heavier guitars can cause shoulder fatigue, so if you practice or perform standing up, a lighter guitar may be a better fit.
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Inspect the fretboard material
Fretboard material influences feel and tone. Laurel is common on budget-friendly Squier models; it feels smooth and requires occasional conditioning. Rosewood is warmer and oilier but less common at this price. Maple fretboards are brighter and have a harder finish. Playability matters more than the material, but it is worth checking the spec if you have a preference.
Frequently asked questions
Which electric guitar under $500 is best for portable practice?
The Enya Inspire Carbon Fiber Electric Guitar is the top choice for portable practice. It measures 43.1 inches long and weighs 7.28 pounds, making it easy to transport. Its compact size and durable carbon fiber construction suit players who need a reliable instrument for direct digital recording or travel where traditional amps are impractical.
What is the best budget electric guitar for metal players?
The Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS24 DKAM is a solid budget option for metal. It features high-output humbuckers and a stable build designed for fast playing. While it lacks a tremolo, its compact 40-inch length and black stain finish provide aggressive tones and good value for rock and metal styles.
Are there good left-handed electric guitars under $500?
Yes, the Ibanez AZES40 Left-handed Electric Guitar is a strong choice. It offers versatile pickups and a durable build specifically for left-handed players. Measuring 42.5 inches long and weighing 8.82 pounds, it provides a balanced feel and reliable performance for those who need a properly oriented instrument.
Which guitar has the best vintage Stratocaster tone on a budget?
The Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster Natural delivers authentic vintage-style tone. It uses alnico pickups and a laurel fretboard to replicate classic sounds. At 44.5 inches long and 8.38 pounds, it offers a traditional full-size feel with a natural finish, making it ideal for players seeking classic Fender aesthetics.
What is the best 7-string electric guitar under $500?
The ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String is the best option for extended range. It provides a lower B string for heavier tuning without extra frills. Measuring 44 inches long and weighing 9.6 pounds, it serves as a solid workhorse for players who need extra low-end depth for modern metal or djent styles.
Which model is best for players wanting a headless design?
The Epiphone Steinberger Spirit GT-PRO Deluxe is the best headless solid-body choice. It features a compact design with a locking tremolo and versatile HSH pickups. This model suits players seeking a unique, lightweight instrument that maintains tuning stability while offering a distinct aesthetic and functional profile.
Is there a V-shaped guitar with a tremolo under $500?
The Jackson King V JS32T Electric Guitar fits this need. It features an aggressive V shape and a Floyd Rose tremolo for dive bombs and pitch modulation. With 24 jumbo frets and a Ferrari Red finish, it delivers high-output tone and speed, making it ideal for metal players on a budget.