ESP Guitars Electric Guitars: 15 Picks Ranked by Specs
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This guide ranks the best ESP Guitars electric guitars by their published specifications. ESP Guitars offers a range of solidbody electrics in this list, including single-cutaway and double-cutaway shapes, 6-string and 7-string models, and options with Floyd Rose tremolos or fixed bridges. The top pick is the ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202, which leads because it combines a basswood body, maple neck, and Floyd Rose tremolo into a reliable signature model for metal and rock players. We compared 15 models, and each pick is based strictly on the specs provided on the product listings.
Quick picks
Our 15 picks
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202
Best for: players seeking a Kirk Hammett signature with a Floyd Rose
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Hand Orientation
- Right-Handed
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 is a solidbody electric guitar with a basswood body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard. It comes equipped with two humbucking pickups and a Floyd Rose tremolo. This right-handed model is a signature guitar for Kirk Hammett, suited for players who want a reliable rock or metal instrument with a locking vibrato system.
Pros
- Solidbody basswood construction for a balanced tone
- Floyd Rose tremolo for stable pitch bending
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output sound
- Maple neck and rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
Cons
- No coil-splitting or additional pickup switching options listed
- Heavier than some solidbody guitars at 10.1 pounds
Good fit if
- You want a signature model inspired by Kirk Hammett's style
- You need a Floyd Rose tremolo for dive bombs and vibrato effects
- You prefer a classic humbucker pickup configuration
Skip if
- You are left-handed and need a left-handed model (only right-handed is listed in this variation)
- You want a guitar with a lighter weight or more tonal versatility from pickup options
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 Black is a solid signature model with basswood body, maple neck, and Floyd Rose tremolo, offering reliable playability for metal and rock players who want a locking vibrato system.
ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String
Best for: budget-minded 7-string players
- 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 and maple neck. It features a rosewood fingerboard and two humbucking pickups. This guitar is suited for players looking to explore extended-range playing without a high investment.
Pros
- 7-string design for extended low-end range
- Solidbody poplar construction with maple neck
- Two humbucking pickups for high-output tone
- Available in two satin finishes
Cons
- Heavier than many 6-string models at 9.6 pounds
- No tremolo bridge or locking tuners listed
- Limited to two pickup configurations
Good fit if
- You want an affordable entry into 7-string guitars
- You prefer a satin finish and simple control layout
- You play metal or downtuned styles that benefit from an extra string
Skip if
- You need a 6-string guitar for standard tuning
- You want a guitar with a Floyd Rose or other tremolo system
- You prefer a lighter instrument under 8 pounds
Verdict: ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String offers a practical 7-string platform with solid specs for players on a budget, though its weight and lack of tremolo may not suit everyone.
ESP LTD Mirage M-400HT Electric Guitar
Best for: Players wanting a Floyd Rose tremolo on a bolt-on alder body
- Body Material
- Alder body
- Neck Material
- Maple neck
- Dimensions
- 4 × 44 × 18 inches
The ESP LTD Mirage M-400HT is a solid-body electric guitar with an alder body and maple neck, built with bolt-on construction. It features a Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo bridge for stable tuning during aggressive playing. The M/Mirage body shape includes an added bevel in the lower horn for improved upper-fret access. This guitar suits players who want a reliable tremolo system and a sleek, metallic finish.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone
- Maple neck offers bright sustain and stability
- Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo for dive bombs and stable tuning
- Bolt-on construction allows easy neck adjustments or replacements
Cons
- Floyd Rose Special is a budget-tier tremolo compared to the Original or 1000 series
- No pickup or electronics specs listed, so tone versatility is unclear
Good fit if
- You want a guitar with a double-locking tremolo for expressive pitch effects
- You prefer a bolt-on neck for easier maintenance or modding
Skip if
- You need detailed pickup specifications to compare tonal options
- You want a set-neck or neck-through construction for maximum sustain
Verdict: ESP LTD Mirage M-400HT Charcoal Metallic is a solid choice if you prioritize a Floyd Rose tremolo and bolt-on construction, but the lack of pickup details may leave you researching further.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin
Best for: players seeking active pickups and an ebony fingerboard
- 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, mahogany neck, and ebony fingerboard. It features two active humbucking pickups and a maple top. The guitar weighs 12 pounds and has a 44-inch length. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse with active electronics and a sleek black satin finish.
Pros
- Solidbody mahogany construction with maple top
- Ebony fingerboard for smooth playability
- Two active humbucking pickups for high output
- Black satin finish for a non-reflective look
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors at 12 pounds
- No left-handed version listed in the data
- Active pickups require battery power
Good fit if
- You want a guitar with active humbuckers for high-gain tones
- You prefer an ebony fingerboard for fast playing
- You like a solid mahogany body for warm sustain
Skip if
- You need a lighter guitar for long sessions
- You want passive pickups for a more vintage sound
- You are left-handed and need a left-handed model
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin is a solid choice if you value active pickups, an ebony fingerboard, and a mahogany body, though its weight may be a consideration for some players.
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ
Best for: metal players wanting a signature artist model
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Body Type
- solid body
- Number of Frets
- 24
- Scale Length
- 25.5"
The ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-WZ White Zombie is a solid-body electric guitar built for aggressive metal playing. It features an alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard. Active EMG 81 and 60 pickups deliver high-output tone. A Floyd Rose bridge and locking nut provide stable tuning under heavy use. It suits players who want a signature artist model with professional-grade hardware.
Pros
- Active EMG 81 (bridge) and EMG 60 (neck) pickups for high-output metal tones
- Floyd Rose bridge and locking nut for stable tremolo performance
- Thin-U neck contour for fast playability
- Includes a hardshell case
Cons
- Heavier than many solid-body guitars at 13 pounds
- Limited to two finish options (White Zombie or Demonology)
- Bolt-on neck construction, not set-neck or neck-through
Good fit if
- You want a signature model from a renowned metal guitarist
- You need active pickups and a Floyd Rose for aggressive playing styles
- You prefer a thin neck profile for speed
Skip if
- You want a lighter guitar for long sessions or travel
- You prefer a set-neck or neck-through design for sustain
- You need a wider variety of finish options
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ is a premium signature guitar with active EMG pickups and a Floyd Rose bridge, built for metal players who want professional features straight from the factory.
ESP LTD MH-203QM See Thru Blue
Best for: Players wanting a Floyd Rose and versatile pickups
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 42 × 4 × 18 inches
- Weight
- 9 pounds
The ESP LTD MH-203QM is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and a quilted maple top. It features two single-coil pickups and one humbucking pickup, offering a versatile range of tones. This guitar includes a Floyd Rose tremolo system for expressive playing. It suits players who want a mix of classic and modern features at a practical price point.
Pros
- Solidbody mahogany construction for resonance and sustain
- Quilted maple top adds visual appeal
- Floyd Rose tremolo system for pitch effects
- Two single-coil and one humbucking pickup for tonal variety
Cons
- Weighs 9 pounds, which may be heavy for some players
- No active electronics or locking tuners listed
Good fit if
- You want a guitar with a Floyd Rose tremolo for dive bombs and vibrato
- You prefer a versatile pickup configuration with single-coils and a humbucker
- You like the look of a quilted maple top on a mahogany body
Skip if
- You need a lighter guitar for long playing sessions
- You prefer a fixed bridge for tuning stability
- You want active pickups or a 7-string model
Verdict: ESP LTD MH-203QM See Thru Blue is a solid choice for players seeking a versatile solidbody with a Floyd Rose tremolo and a mix of single-coil and humbucking pickups, though its 9-pound weight may be a consideration.
ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Snow White
Best for: Players wanting a mahogany dual-humbucker ESP LTD Eclipse
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Jatoba
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 48 × 5 × 19 inches
- Weight
- 10 pounds
This is the ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 in Snow White, a full-size solidbody electric guitar. It has a mahogany body and mahogany neck, a jatoba fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. The guitar weighs 10 pounds. It suits players who want an ESP LTD Eclipse with a classic mahogany-and-humbucker setup.
Pros
- Mahogany body and mahogany neck for a traditional solidbody foundation
- Two humbucking pickups for a high-output dual-coil voice
- Jatoba fingerboard included
- Full-size solidbody design
- Available in five color options
Cons
- No bridge or hardware specs listed in the product data
- No control or switching details provided
- Listed weight of 10 pounds may be heavier than some expect
Good fit if
- You want an ESP LTD Eclipse with a mahogany body and neck
- You prefer a dual-humbucker solidbody layout
- You want a full-size guitar available in several colors
Skip if
- You need detailed hardware or electronics specifications before choosing
- You want a lighter-weight electric guitar
- You require a left-handed version of this model
Verdict: ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Snow White is a straightforward full-size solidbody with a mahogany body and neck, a jatoba fingerboard, and two humbuckers, making it a solid spec-first choice for traditional ESP LTD styling.
ESP LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black
Best for: left-handed players wanting a mahogany solidbody with humbuckers
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Hand Orientation
- Left-Handed
- Body Type
- Solidbody
The ESP LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Electric Guitar in Vintage Black is a solidbody electric guitar built for left-handed players. It features a mahogany body and neck with an ebony fingerboard, and a pickup configuration of two humbucking pickups. This guitar suits left-handed guitarists looking for a quality instrument from a respected brand without needing to modify a right-handed model.
Pros
- Left-handed orientation, built specifically for left-handed players
- Solidbody mahogany construction for sustain and warmth
- Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth playing surface
- Two humbucking pickups deliver a thick, high-output tone
Cons
- No tremolo bridge or locking tuners listed in specs
- Only one left-handed color option (Vintage Black) from the available variations
Good fit if
- You are a left-handed guitarist seeking a dedicated left-handed electric guitar
- You want a solidbody mahogany guitar with humbucking pickups for rock or metal
- You prefer an ebony fingerboard for its smooth feel and durability
Skip if
- You are a right-handed player
- You need a guitar with a tremolo system or active pickups
- You want a guitar with a maple or rosewood fingerboard
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black is a solid choice for left-handed guitarists who want a mahogany solidbody with humbuckers, though it lacks a tremolo and offers limited left-handed color options.
ESP LTD EC-200DX Electric Guitar
Best for: budget-conscious players seeking a classic single-cutaway design
- Body Material
- Poplar
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Dimensions
- 44 × 16 × 4 inches
The ESP LTD EC-200DX is a solidbody electric guitar with a poplar body and maple neck, finished in Blue Burst. It features a maple top, rosewood fingerboard, and two humbucking pickups. This model suits players who want a classic single-cutaway design with a straightforward pickup configuration and a choice of two color options.
Pros
- Solidbody construction with maple top for added resonance
- Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing surface
- Two humbucking pickups provide a thick, high-output tone
- Available in Blue Burst or Charcoal Burst finish
Cons
- Poplar body is less resonant than mahogany or alder alternatives
- No coil-splitting or push-pull options listed for the pickups
- Weight listed as 1 pound, which may be a data error and not reliable
Good fit if
- You want an affordable single-cutaway electric guitar with a classic look
- You prefer a simple, no-frills pickup setup with two humbuckers
- You like the Blue Burst or Charcoal Burst color options
Skip if
- You need a guitar with a tremolo bridge or locking tuners
- You want a lighter-weight guitar made from mahogany or alder
- You require active pickups or additional switching options
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-200DX Electric Guitar is a solid entry-level single-cutaway with a poplar body, maple neck, and two humbuckers. It delivers a straightforward playing experience without extra features.
ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black
Best for: players wanting a simple, single-pickup mahogany guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration
- 1 Humbucking Pickup
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Color
- Black
The ESP LTD EC-201 is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and neck, paired with a rosewood fingerboard. It features a single humbucking pickup for a focused, high-output tone. This model suits players who want a straightforward, no-frills guitar built for heavy sounds without extra switching or controls.
Pros
- Solidbody mahogany construction for resonance and sustain
- Single humbucking pickup delivers a powerful, direct signal
- Rosewood fingerboard offers a smooth playing feel
- Mahogany neck provides stability and warmth
Cons
- Only one pickup limits tonal variety
- No tone or volume controls listed for shaping sound
- Weight listed as 1 pound, which may be a data error or extremely light
Good fit if
- You want a simple, single-pickup guitar for heavy rock or metal
- You prefer mahogany body and neck for a warm, thick tone
- You are looking for an entry-level LTD model with straightforward specs
Skip if
- You need multiple pickups or a tremolo bridge for versatile sounds
- You require a left-handed version, as only right-handed black is shown
- You expect a full set of electronics like coil-splitting or active pickups
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black is a no-nonsense solidbody with a single humbucker, mahogany build, and rosewood board, ideal for players who want a focused, high-output sound without extra features.
ESP LTD Arrow 400 Charcoal Metallic
Best for: metal and shred players needing active pickups and a tremolo
- Body Material
- Mahogany body
- Neck Material
- Set 3pc Maple neck
- Pickup Configuration
- EMG 81/85 active humbucking pickups
- Dimensions
- 4 × 44 × 18 inches
The ESP LTD Arrow 400 is a solid-body electric guitar with a mahogany body and a set 3-piece maple neck. It features an extra-thin U-shaped neck profile for fast playing, EMG 81/85 active humbucking pickups for high-output tone, and a Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo bridge for stable pitch effects. This guitar suits players who want a aggressive metal-oriented instrument with professional components.
Pros
- Mahogany body with set 3-piece maple neck for sustain and stability
- Extra-thin U-shaped neck profile for fast playability
- EMG 81/85 active humbucking pickups deliver high-output, noise-free tone
- Floyd Rose Special double-locking tremolo bridge for stable tuning during dive bombs
Cons
- Floyd Rose Special is a lower-cost tremolo compared to the original Floyd Rose
- Only two color options available
- No passive pickup option for players who prefer a more traditional sound
Good fit if
- You play metal, hard rock, or shred styles and want active pickups
- You need a double-locking tremolo for aggressive whammy bar use
- You prefer an extra-thin neck profile for fast lead playing
Skip if
- You want a fixed bridge for simpler tuning stability
- You prefer passive pickups for a more dynamic, less compressed tone
- You need a guitar with a thicker neck profile for rhythm playing
Verdict: ESP LTD Arrow 400 Charcoal Metallic is a solid choice for metal players who want active EMG pickups, a fast neck, and a Floyd Rose tremolo in a professional-grade package.
ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo
Best for: players who want 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 key spec is the Fishman Powerbridge piezo system, which lets you blend acoustic-style tones with your electric sound. This guitar suits players who want versatile tone options from a single instrument.
Pros
- Fishman Powerbridge piezo system for acoustic-electric blending
- Quilt maple top over mahogany body for a premium look and tone
- Ebony fretboard for smooth playability
- Two humbucking pickups for thick, high-output sound
Cons
- Heavier than some other LTD models at 10 pounds
- No coil-splitting or push-pull options listed in specs
Good fit if
- You want a single guitar that can cover both electric and acoustic-style tones
- You prefer a classic single-cutaway body shape with a quilted maple top
- You like the feel of an ebony fretboard
Skip if
- You want a lightweight guitar for long playing sessions
- You need a guitar with active pickups or extended range (7+ strings)
- You prefer a simpler, more affordable LTD EC model without piezo
Verdict: ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo is a versatile single-cutaway electric guitar that stands out from other LTD models by adding a Fishman Powerbridge piezo system, giving you acoustic-style tones alongside its dual humbuckers.
ESP LTD James Hetfield Iron Cross SW
Best for: James Hetfield fans wanting a mahogany-bodied signature guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- solid body
- Dimensions
- 46 × 5 × 19 inches
This is a solidbody electric guitar with a mahogany body and neck, an ebony fretboard, and a maple top. It features two humbucking pickups and a Snow White finish with an Iron Cross graphic. It suits players who want a signature model inspired by James Hetfield with a classic tonewood combination.
Pros
- Mahogany body and neck for warm, resonant tone
- Ebony fretboard for smooth playability and bright attack
- Maple top adds clarity and sustain
- Two humbucking pickups deliver high-output, thick sound
Cons
- No piezo or multi-voice electronics listed
- Weighs 11 pounds, heavier than many solidbody guitars
- Signature graphic may not suit all visual preferences
Good fit if
- You want a James Hetfield signature model with a classic wood build
- You prefer mahogany and ebony for a balanced, punchy tone
- You like a heavier guitar for a solid, anchored feel
Skip if
- You need a lightweight guitar for long playing sessions
- You want versatile pickup switching or piezo options
- You prefer a plain, non-graphic finish
Verdict: ESP LTD James Hetfield Iron Cross SW is a solid signature model with a mahogany body, ebony fretboard, and dual humbuckers, built for players who want a heavy, rock-ready tone and a distinctive look.
ESP LTD EX-200 Olympic White
Best for: players wanting humbucker and single-coil tones in one guitar
- Body Material
- Mahogany
- Neck Material
- 3-Piece Mahogany
- Fretboard Material
- Roasted Jatoba
- Body Type
- solid body
- Dimensions
- 48 × 18 × 8 inches
- Weight
- 1 pounds
The ESP LTD EX-200 is a solid-body electric guitar with a mahogany body and a three-piece mahogany neck. It uses a roasted jatoba fretboard with a Thin U-shaped neck profile. Two ESP LH-150 humbuckers drive the sound, and a push/pull tone knob coil-taps them for single-coil tones. This gives you both heavy and glassy sounds in one guitar.
Pros
- Mahogany body and three-piece mahogany neck
- Roasted jatoba fretboard with Thin U-shaped profile
- ESP LH-150 humbuckers with black covers
- Push/pull tone knob activates coil-tapped single-coil tones
Cons
- No bridge or tuner specs listed
- Weight is listed at only 1 lb, which is unusually light for a solid mahogany guitar
- No case or gig bag included in the listed specs
Good fit if
- You want a solid mahogany electric with a Thin U-shaped neck
- You like switching between humbucker and single-coil tones with one knob
- You prefer a roasted jatoba fretboard for a smooth playing feel
Skip if
- You need detailed hardware specs like bridge type or scale length
- You are looking for a guitar with active pickups or extended range
- You expect a carrying case or gig bag in the package
Verdict: ESP LTD EX-200 Olympic White is a straightforward solid-body electric with mahogany construction, a roasted jatoba fretboard, and coil-tapped ESP LH-150 humbuckers for humbucker-to-single-coil versatility.
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602
Best for: players wanting a KH signature solidbody
- Body Material
- Alder
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Ebony
- Pickup Configuration
- 2 Humbucking Pickups
- Body Type
- Solidbody
- Color
- Black
This is an ESP LTD signature solidbody electric guitar with an alder body, maple neck, and ebony fingerboard. It uses two humbucking pickups and comes with a vibrato bridge. The KH-602 is a Kirk Hammett model finished in Black. It suits players who want a signature-style guitar built from classic solidbody materials.
Pros
- Solidbody alder body
- Maple neck with ebony fingerboard
- Two humbucking pickups
- Includes vibrato bridge
- Kirk Hammett signature model
Cons
- No pickup brand or model listed
- No case or gig bag listed
- Two color options only
Good fit if
- You want a Kirk Hammett signature guitar
- You prefer an ebony fingerboard
- You want a vibrato bridge
Skip if
- You need a hardtail bridge
- You want more than two humbuckers
- You prefer a rosewood or maple fingerboard
Verdict: ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-602 Electric Guitar is a solidbody signature model with an alder body, maple neck, ebony fingerboard, two humbuckers, and a vibrato bridge.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202 | ESP LTD M-207B DX 7-String | ESP LTD Mirage M-400HT Electric Guitar | ESP LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ | ESP LTD MH-203QM See Thru Blue | ESP LTD Eclipse EC-256 Snow White | ESP LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black | ESP LTD EC-200DX Electric Guitar | ESP LTD EC-201 Electric Guitar Black | ESP LTD Arrow 400 Charcoal Metallic | ESP LTD EC-1000QM Piezo | ESP LTD James Hetfield Iron Cross SW | ESP LTD EX-200 Olympic White | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-602 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Body Material | Basswood | Poplar | Alder body | mahogany | Alder | Mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany | Poplar | Mahogany | Mahogany body | mahogany | Mahogany | Mahogany | Alder |
| Neck Material | Maple | Maple | Maple neck | mahogany | Maple | not specified | Mahogany | Mahogany | Maple | Mahogany | Set 3pc Maple neck | not specified | Mahogany | 3-Piece Mahogany | Maple |
| Fretboard Material | Rosewood | Rosewood | not specified | ebony | Rosewood | not specified | Jatoba | Ebony | Rosewood | Rosewood | not specified | ebony | Ebony | Roasted Jatoba | Ebony |
| Pickup Configuration | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | 2 active humbucking pickups | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 2 Humbucking Pickups | 1 Humbucking Pickup | EMG 81/85 active humbucking pickups | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups | not specified | 2 Humbucking Pickups |
| Number of Strings | not specified | 7 | 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 |
| Hand Orientation | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Left-Handed | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Body Type | Solidbody | Solidbody | not specified | solidbody | solid body | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | Solidbody | not specified | not specified | solid body | solid body | Solidbody |
| Number of Frets | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 24 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Scale Length | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 25.5" | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Color | Black | See Thru Black Satin | Charcoal Metallic | Black | Black | See-thru Blue | Snow White | Vintage Black | Blue Burst | Black | Charcoal Metallic | See Thru Black | Snow White with Iron Cross graphic | Olympic White | Black |
| Dimensions | 19 × 6 × 48 inches | 44 × 16 × 4 inches | 4 × 44 × 18 inches | 44 × 16 × 6 inches | 47 × 5 × 19 inches | 42 × 4 × 18 inches | 48 × 5 × 19 inches | 44 × 4 × 16 inches | 44 × 16 × 4 inches | 42.8 × 17.7 × 4.4 inches | 4 × 44 × 18 inches | 45 × 5 × 17 inches | 46 × 5 × 19 inches | 48 × 18 × 8 inches | 51 × 6 × 18 inches |
| Weight | 10.1 pounds | 9.6 pounds | not specified | 12 pounds | 13 pounds | 9 pounds | 10 pounds | not specified | 1 pounds | 1 pounds | not specified | 10 pounds | 11 pounds | 1 pounds | not specified |
| Size | KH-202 | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | full-size | Left-Handed | not specified | 42.8 inches | not specified | Piezo | Guitar Only | 48 inches | KH-602 |
| Model | LKH202BLK | LM207BDXSTBLKS | LM400HTCHM | LEC1000ETBBBLKS | LKHWZ | LMH203QMSTB | LEC256SW | LEC1000VBLKLH | LEC200DXBLB | LEC201BLK | LARROW400CHM | LEC1000PIEZOQMSTBLK | LIRONCROSSSW | LEX200OW | LKH602 |
ESP Guitars lineup at a glance
The ESP Guitars electric guitars on this list are mostly solidbody models, split between single-cutaway and double-cutaway designs. Most are 6-string right-handed guitars, but there is a 7-string model (LTD M-207B DX) for extended-range players and a left-handed option (LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black) for lefties. Body woods range from basswood and alder to mahogany and poplar, with maple or mahogany necks and fingerboards of rosewood, ebony, or jatoba.
Pickup configurations vary: many models use dual humbuckers, some with active EMG pickups (LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ, LTD Arrow 400), while others offer coil-splitting (LTD EX-200) or a piezo system (LTD EC-1000QM Piezo). Tremolo options include Floyd Rose locking bridges on several models and fixed bridges on others. Colors span black, white, blue, and metallic finishes. This range suits players from entry-level to professional, with signature models from Kirk Hammett and James Hetfield for fans of those artists.
Where ESP Guitars fits
This ESP Guitars range spans from the 9-pound LTD MH-203QM to the 13-pound KH-WZ, with single-cutaway and double-cutaway bodies. Most models are 6-string and right-handed, but the M-207B DX offers a 7-string option and the EC-1000 Left-Handed serves lefties. Floyd Rose tremolos appear on several models, while fixed bridges are on the EC-1000 Evertune and EC-200DX. Nearly all guitars use humbuckers, though the MH-203QM adds a single-coil. No listed model has a maple fretboard, a semi-hollow body, or a 12-string configuration, so shoppers wanting those features should look elsewhere.
How to choose the right ESP LTD
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Number of strings
Most ESP LTD models on this list are 6-string guitars, but the M-207B DX offers a 7-string option for players who need extended range for modern metal or drop tunings. If you play standard or drop-D tuning, a 6-string like the EC-256 is sufficient. For lower tunings or extra low-end, the 7-string gives you that range without changing string gauges.
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Hand orientation
The list includes one left-handed model, the EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black. If you are a left-handed player, check that the guitar you want is available in a left-handed version. Most ESP LTD guitars are right-handed only, so the EC-1000 Left-Handed is your main option here. Right-handed players have the full range to choose from.
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Pickup configuration
Pickup types affect your tone. The KH-WZ uses active EMG pickups for high output and clarity, ideal for metal. The EC-200DX has two passive humbuckers for a warmer, more traditional sound. The MH-203QM mixes a single-coil and a humbucker for versatility. Active pickups need a battery, while passives do not. Choose based on the sound you want.
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Body wood and weight
Body wood influences resonance and weight. Mahogany bodies, like on the EC-1000 Evertune, produce a warm, full tone but can be heavier at 12 pounds. Basswood, as on the KH-202, is lighter and balanced. Alder, on the KH-602, offers a clear, punchy sound. If you play standing for long sets, consider a lighter model like the MH-203QM at 9 pounds.
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Bridge type
Bridge type affects tuning stability and playability. Floyd Rose tremolos, found on the KH-202 and MH-203QM, allow pitch bends but require more setup for tuning changes. Fixed bridges, like on the EC-1000 Evertune, keep tuning rock-solid and are simpler to maintain. If you use alternate tunings often, a fixed bridge is more practical.
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Fretboard material
Fretboard wood affects feel and tone. Ebony fingerboards, on the EC-1000 Evertune, are smooth and bright, good for fast playing. Rosewood, on the EC-201, is warmer and more traditional. Jatoba, on the EX-200, is a durable alternative similar to rosewood. Try different materials if possible, as the feel under your fingers can vary.
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Signature vs standard models
Signature models like the Kirk Hammett KH-202 or James Hetfield Iron Cross come with artist-specified features, such as specific pickups or finishes. Standard models like the EC-256 offer more flexibility in color and specs. Signatures are great if you want that artist's exact setup, but standards give you more choice if you prefer to customize later.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best overall ESP LTD electric guitar?
The top pick is the ESP LTD Kirk Hammett KH-202. It has a basswood body, maple neck, and a Floyd Rose tremolo. It is designed for right-handed players and comes in black. This makes it a solid choice for metal and rock players who want a locking vibrato system.
Which ESP LTD model is best for 7-string players?
The ESP LTD M-207B DX is the only 7-string model on this list. It has a See Thru Black Satin finish and weighs 9.6 pounds. It does not have a tremolo, so it suits players who want a fixed bridge for extended-range playing on a budget.
What is the best left-handed ESP LTD electric guitar?
The ESP LTD EC-1000 Left-Handed Vintage Black is the top left-handed option. It has a mahogany body and humbuckers. It does not have a tremolo, and color options are limited to Vintage Black. It is built for left-handed players who want a solid single-cutaway design.
Which ESP LTD guitar has a Floyd Rose tremolo?
Several models include a Floyd Rose tremolo, including the top-ranked KH-202 and the LTD Mirage M-400HT. The LTD MH-203QM and LTD Arrow 400 also have Floyd Rose bridges. These models are suitable for players who need a locking vibrato system for dive bombs and pitch effects.
What is the lightest ESP LTD electric guitar on this list?
The lightest model listed is the LTD MH-203QM, which weighs 9 pounds. The LTD EC-200DX and EC-201 both list a weight of 1 pound, but that appears to be a data error. Among verified weights, the MH-203QM is the lightest at 9 pounds.
Which ESP LTD guitar has active pickups?
The LTD EC-1000 Evertune Black Satin and the LTD Kirk Hammett KH-WZ both come with active pickups. The KH-WZ has EMG pickups. The LTD Arrow 400 also features active EMG pickups. These models are suited for players who want high-output, noise-free tones for metal.
Does ESP LTD make a guitar with a piezo pickup?
Yes, the LTD EC-1000QM Piezo includes a Fishman Powerbridge piezo system. This lets you blend acoustic-style tones with its dual humbuckers. It has a See Thru Black finish and weighs 10 pounds. It is a versatile single-cutaway for players who want both electric and acoustic sounds.