The Best Monoprice Electric Guitars in 2026: 2 Picks
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This guide covers the best monoprice electric guitars available for players who need clear specs. We compared 2 models based strictly on the specifications published on their listings. The top pick is the Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, which leads for beginners seeking a standard solid body with a reliable maple neck and SSS pickups. The range includes full-size instruments like the Cali Classic and offset styles like the Indio OS20. You will find options in black and sunburst finishes. These picks focus on practical details such as body material, string count, and physical dimensions to help you choose.
Our top pick: Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black Best overall | beginners seeking a standard solid body | Check price of Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black on Amazon |
| 2 | Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar Best budget | vintage-style offset players seeking versatile tone | Check price of Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar on Amazon |
Our 2 picks
Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black
Best for: beginners seeking a standard solid body
- Neck Material
- maple
- Pickup Configuration
- SSS
- Number of Strings
- 6
- Hand Orientation
- right-handed
- Body Type
- solid
- Number of Frets
- 22
View on Amazon: Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black Affiliate link
The Monoprice Cali Classic is a full-size solid body electric guitar with a maple neck and rosewood fretboard. It features a 25.5-inch scale length and 22 frets for comfortable playability. The SSS pickup configuration provides three standard single-coil pickups. This instrument includes a gig bag and is designed for right-handed players. It suits beginners and experienced players seeking a no-frills, affordable option.
Pros
- Solid body construction for stable tone
- Maple neck with rosewood fretboard
- 25.5-inch scale length and 22 frets
- SSS pickup configuration with three single-coils
- Includes a gig bag for transport
Cons
- Only available in right-handed orientation
- Fixed full-size body limits portability
- Basic hardware without premium tuning stability
Good fit if
- You are a right-handed beginner
- You want a solid body guitar
- You prefer single-coil pickup sounds
Skip if
- You need a left-handed model
- You require a double-cutaway offset shape
- You want a bass guitar instead
Verdict: The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar offers a reliable maple neck and SSS pickups for players who value standard specs. It fits beginners seeking a straightforward instrument with included gig bag protection.
Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar
Best for: vintage-style offset players seeking versatile tone
- Body Material
- Basswood
- Neck Material
- Maple
- Fretboard Material
- Rosewood
- Hand Orientation
- Right-handed
- Color
- Sunburst
- Dimensions
- 41.3 × 16.5 × 4.3 inches
View on Amazon: Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar Affiliate link
The Monoprice Indio OS20 is a right-handed offset electric guitar in a sunburst finish. It features a basswood body and a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard. The pickup configuration includes two single coils and a bridge humbucker. It weighs 10.1 pounds and measures 41.3 inches in length. This setup offers versatile tone options for players seeking a classic offset style with included gig bag protection.
Pros
- Three pickup configuration with two single coils and a bridge humbucker
- Basswood body paired with a fast-action maple neck
- Rosewood fretboard for enhanced resonance and playability
- Protective gig bag included for transport safety
Cons
- String material is listed as nylon, which is atypical for standard electric guitars
- Weight of 10.1 pounds is on the heavier side for this style
- Controls are limited to a basic 3-way switch, one volume, and one tone knob
Good fit if
- You want a vintage-style offset guitar with a sunburst finish
- You prefer a versatile pickup setup with both single coils and a humbucker
- You need a complete package that includes a protective gig bag
Skip if
- You require standard steel strings for electric guitar use
- You prefer a lighter instrument for long playing sessions
- You need advanced control options beyond basic volume and tone
Verdict: Monoprice Indio OS20 Sunburst Offset Guitar provides a classic offset aesthetic and versatile tone for players who value a complete package with gig bag protection. It suits those who appreciate the specific resonance of a basswood and maple construction.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar, Black | Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 Right-Handed Electric Guitar |
|---|---|---|
| Body Material | not stated | Basswood |
| Neck Material | maple | Maple |
| Fretboard Material | not stated | Rosewood |
| Pickup Configuration | SSS | not stated |
| Number of Strings | 6 | not stated |
| Hand Orientation | right-handed | Right-handed |
| Body Type | solid | not stated |
| Number of Frets | 22 | not stated |
| Target Audience | Beginners | not stated |
| Color | Black | Sunburst |
| Dimensions | 42 × 17 × 5 inches | 41.3 × 16.5 × 4.3 inches |
| Weight | not stated | 10.1 pounds |
| Size | Full Size | not stated |
| Model | 610160 | 625882 |
Monoprice Electric Guitar Specs Compared
You can choose between two distinct body styles here. The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar offers a solid body with a maple neck and SSS pickups. It measures 42 inches long and fits beginners seeking standard specifications. The Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 provides a basswood construction with a vintage offset aesthetic. It is slightly shorter at 41.3 inches and weighs 10.1 pounds. Both instruments are right-handed and come in different colors. The Cali Classic is black, while the Indio is sunburst. Your choice depends on whether you prefer a traditional solid body or an offset shape. Each model includes a gig bag for protection. Consider your preferred tone and playing style when selecting between these two options.
Who Monoprice Suits Best
Monoprice targets beginners and players who want straightforward specs. The range includes a standard solid body and a vintage-style offset shape. Both models are right-handed and full size. The Cali Classic features SSS pickups and a maple neck. The Indio uses basswood for a specific resonance. Neither product lists lighting options or alternative hand orientations. You will not find left-handed versions or smaller sizes in this selection. This brand suits those who need a complete package with a gig bag. It fits players who prefer standard dimensions over specialized features.
How to choose the right monoprice electric guitar
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Check string count
Most electric guitars in this range feature six strings. This is the standard configuration for learning chords, scales, and basic songs. If you prefer unique tunings or extended range sounds, you might look elsewhere. For standard rock, pop, or blues styles, six strings provide the necessary versatility. Both models listed here are six-string instruments, making them suitable for players who want a traditional setup without needing specialized gear or alternative tuning knowledge.
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Confirm hand orientation
You must ensure the guitar matches your dominant hand. The listed models are designed for right-handed players. If you are left-handed, these specific instruments will not fit your needs without modification. Left-handed players typically need to seek out dedicated left-handed models or restring right-handed guitars, which can affect string tension and bridge angle. Always verify the hand orientation in the product attributes before purchasing to avoid receiving an instrument that is difficult or impossible to play comfortably.
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Review pickup config
Pickup configuration determines your tonal palette. The Monoprice Cali Classic uses an SSS layout, meaning three single-coil pickups. Single-coils generally offer bright, clear tones with good articulation. This setup is ideal for clean jazz, surf rock, or crisp funk sounds. If you prefer heavier distortion or humbucker-style warmth, this configuration might not suit you. Understanding whether a guitar has single-coils, humbuckers, or a mix helps you predict how it will sound through an amplifier.
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Assess body type
Body type affects both weight and resonance. The Cali Classic features a solid body, which minimizes feedback at high volumes and provides consistent sustain. This makes it a reliable choice for beginners who might play in various environments. Solid bodies are generally more durable and less prone to unwanted noise than semi-hollow or hollow-body designs. If you play loud rock or metal, a solid body is often the practical choice for stability and tone control.
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Match target audience
Some models are specifically designed for beginners. The Cali Classic is targeted at new players seeking a standard solid body. This often means the setup is optimized for ease of play, with comfortable neck profiles and manageable string action. If you are just starting out, choosing a guitar labeled for beginners can save you time on initial adjustments. Experienced players might look for more specialized features, but for learning fundamentals, a beginner-focused model provides a straightforward and reliable foundation.
Frequently asked questions
Which Monoprice electric guitar is best for beginners?
The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar is the top choice for beginners. It features a standard solid body design and an SSS pickup configuration. This setup provides reliable tones for learning chords and scales. The guitar comes with a maple neck and includes a gig bag for protection. Its straightforward specs make it an ideal starting instrument for new players.
Does the Monoprice Indio Offset come with a gig bag?
Yes, the Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 includes a gig bag. This package protects the instrument during transport and storage. The guitar itself features a basswood body and a maple construction for specific resonance. It is designed for players who appreciate a vintage-style offset aesthetic. The inclusion of the bag adds value to the complete package.
What type of pickups does the Monoprice Cali Classic have?
The Monoprice Cali Classic Electric Guitar uses an SSS pickup configuration. This means it has three single-coil pickups. This setup is standard for solid body guitars and offers versatile tone options. It allows you to achieve clear, bright sounds suitable for various genres. The maple neck complements the pickup choice for a balanced response.
Is the Monoprice Indio Offset guitar right-handed?
Yes, the Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 is designed for right-handed players. The specifications clearly list the hand orientation as right-handed. If you are left-handed, you would need to look for a different model or a left-handed version if available. Most standard electric guitars in this range follow this orientation.
How heavy is the Monoprice Indio Offset guitar?
The Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 weighs 10.1 pounds. This weight is typical for a full-size solid body electric guitar. The basswood body contributes to this specific mass. A weight of this level is manageable for most players during extended practice sessions. It provides a substantial feel without being excessively heavy.
What is the body material of the Monoprice Indio?
The Monoprice Indio Offset OS20 features a basswood body. Basswood is known for its balanced tone and lightweight properties. It is often used in guitars for its versatility across different music styles. The construction also includes maple, which adds specific resonance to the instrument. This combination supports the vintage-style offset design.