Many thanks to an increasingly open market as well as more affordable production methods, nowadays having $500 in your pocket offers you a significant range of quality electric guitars to choose from– whatever your design or passions.
While we have actually seen superb Best Electric Guitars Under $500 , extending your spending plan that little more gives you a broader, more significant range to select from, and also virtually guarantees you will end up with a great electrical guitar.
We‘ve attempted and tested plenty of guitars and, while some fall short of the mark, there are lots of that we simply could not put down. To aid you make the best decision, right here are some of our faves that fall in this cost variety:
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Top 10 Best Electric Guitars Under $500
1. Donner 39 Inch Electric Guitar
.The Donner DST-200 is an eye-catching electric guitar designed for both beginners and seasoned players. Its solid body construction ensures durability and consistent sound, while the single coil split system allows for versatile tonal options ranging from clean melodies to rock-ready riffs. The guitar comes with essential accessories like a bag, strap, and cable, making it a complete starter package. Its blossom pink finish adds a stylish flair that stands out on stage. For learners and performers seeking value, performance, and aesthetics, the DST-200 is a strong contender.
Technical Specifications:
- Full-size 39-inch solid body design
- H-S-S pickup configuration with coil split system
- Maple neck and fingerboard
- Comes with bag, cable, and strap
Pros:
- Stylish blossom pink finish with modern design appeal
- Versatile tone options from single-coil and humbucker pickups
- Smooth playability, great for both beginners and intermediate players
- Affordable yet well-built for long-term use
Cons:
-
Stock pickups may lack depth for advanced players
2. Donner Concert Ukulele Mahogany 23 Inch
The Donner DUC-1 Concert Ukulele is a well-rounded kit ideal for beginners. Crafted from quality mahogany, it delivers a warm and balanced tone suitable for a wide range of music styles. The 23-inch size is perfect for comfort while maintaining a resonant sound. This kit includes a gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, and cloth, plus access to free online lessons, ensuring new players have everything needed to start their musical journey. With its smooth nylon strings and user-friendly design, the DUC-1 is an excellent gift choice for aspiring ukulele players.
Technical Specifications:
- 23-inch concert body, mahogany top, back, and sides
- Nylon strings with quality tuner
- Includes gig bag, strap, picks, tuner, and cleaning cloth
- Free online lessons for beginners
Pros:
- Warm and bright mahogany tone ideal for practice and performance
- Beginner-friendly with complete starter accessories
- Comfortable size, easy to hold and play
- Excellent value under $100
Cons:
-
Not an electric guitar (included for comparison as an entry-level option)
3. Epiphone Les Paul Criterion.
The Donner DLP-124B offers an affordable entry into the world of electric guitars without sacrificing quality. With its classic LP solid body design, this full-size 39-inch guitar produces a rich, powerful sound perfect for rock, blues, or metal. The included kit—featuring a bag, strap, and cable—ensures beginners have all the essentials to get started immediately. Its sleek black finish gives it a professional appearance, while its easy-to-play neck suits both practice and performance. For beginners seeking reliability and style, the DLP-124B is an excellent first electric guitar.
Technical Specifications:
- Full-size 39-inch LP-style solid body
- Dual humbuckers for powerful sound
- Mahogany body with maple top
- Complete starter kit with bag, strap, and cable
Pros:
- Classic Les Paul design with strong sustain and warm tones
- Perfect for rock, blues, and metal styles
- Beginner-friendly kit with all essentials included
- Affordable without compromising on style
Cons:
-
Heavier than Strat-style models
4. Ibanez JEMJR Steve Vai Trademark.
The Ibanez Steve Vai JEMJRSP is a high-performance electric guitar designed for advanced players who crave speed, precision, and stage presence. Known for its bold yellow finish and iconic “monkey grip,” this guitar is as visually striking as it is powerful. It delivers fast playability with its thin Wizard III neck and responsive pickups, catering to shredders and rock guitarists alike. Built with the craftsmanship Ibanez is famous for, it offers smooth bends, articulate notes, and versatile tones. Whether you’re performing live or recording, the JEMJRSP is a professional-grade instrument tailored for serious musicians.
Technical Specifications:
- Signature Steve Vai JEM series design
- Quantum pickups with 5-way switch
- Iconic “Monkey Grip” handle
- 24-fret rosewood fingerboard
Pros:
- High-performance guitar with fast neck and versatile tone
- Eye-catching yellow finish for stage presence
- Suitable for shredders and advanced techniques
- Reliable build quality from Ibanez
Cons:
-
Slightly higher price but still under $500
5. Yamaha Pacifica PAC311H.
The Yamaha Pacifica PAC311H is a versatile electric guitar offering premium features at a mid-range price. Its solid-body construction and distinctive yellow natural finish provide both durability and a sleek look. Equipped with a humbucker and single-coil pickup configuration, it delivers a wide range of tones—from warm, full-bodied sounds to crisp leads. The PAC311H also features a comfortable neck profile, making it suitable for extended playing sessions. Known for Yamaha’s consistent quality, this guitar is perfect for intermediate to advanced players seeking reliability, tone flexibility, and modern style.
Technical Specifications:
- Alder body with maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
- H/P-90 pickup configuration for tonal variety
- Hardtail bridge for tuning stability
- Sleek natural finish
Pros:
- Renowned for reliability and consistent sound
- Wide tonal range from blues to rock
- Comfortable neck profile for extended play
- Excellent quality at a mid-budget price
Cons:
-
Lacks a tremolo system for whammy effects
6.Donner DST-100B 39 Inch Electric Guitar Beginner Kit
.The Donner DST-100B beginner kit is an excellent choice for those starting their guitar journey. With a solid body full-size design and an HSS pickup configuration, it delivers versatile tones from bright cleans to powerful rock sounds. The bundle includes everything a beginner needs—20W amplifier, digital tuner, capo, strap, cable, spare strings, and picks—making it a complete starter package. Its sleek black finish and ergonomic design make it comfortable for practice and performance. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, all-in-one electric guitar kit, the Donner DST-100B offers great sound, quality accessories, and reliable playability for new musicians.
Technical Specifications:
- Full-size 39-inch solid body
- HSS pickup configuration
- Includes 20W amplifier, tuner, capo, strap, picks, and bag
- Designed for beginners and learners
Pros:
- Complete package with everything needed to start playing
- HSS pickup setup offers versatile tones
- Affordable and beginner-friendly
Cons:
-
Amplifier quality is basic, not suited for advanced use
7. LyxPro Electric Guitar 39″ inch Complete Beginner Starter kit Full Size with 20w Amp
.The LyxPro Electric Guitar Beginner Kit provides a full-size 39-inch guitar with a smooth black finish, perfect for new players. It comes with a 20W amplifier, digital tuner, tremolo bar, extra strings, picks, strap, and padded gig bag—everything you need to start playing right away. The guitar’s comfortable neck and responsive pickups make it easy to explore a wide range of music styles. The included amp delivers decent sound for practice and small sessions. With its comprehensive accessories and affordable price, the LyxPro kit is designed for beginners who want an accessible way to learn guitar while enjoying quality playability.
Technical Specifications:
- Full-size 39-inch solid body design
- S-S-S pickup configuration
- Includes 20W amp, bag, tuner, strap, tremolo bar, and accessories
- Targeted for new players
Pros:
- Budget-friendly, ideal for first-time players
- Comes with a wide range of accessories
- Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons:
-
Tone and sustain are limited compared to higher-end models
8. Silvertone Standard 1478.
The Classic 1478 BK Electric Guitar is a reissue of a vintage design that combines retro styling with modern performance. Featuring a sleek gloss black finish and dual single-coil pickups, it delivers a warm, punchy tone ideal for rock, blues, and surf music. The offset body provides both comfort and stage presence, making it appealing for performers. Its solid construction and smooth maple neck enhance playability while preserving the vintage vibe. Players who appreciate unique aesthetics and versatile sound will find the Classic 1478 BK to be an outstanding choice that bridges the gap between timeless style and reliable modern build quality.
Technical Specifications:
- Retro-inspired gloss black finish
- Dual humbuckers for rich, vintage tone
- Solid build with modern reliability
- Suited for multiple music genres
Pros:
- Unique vintage look and tone profile
- Strong sustain and warm sound
- Quality hardware for long-lasting use
Cons:
-
Not a beginner-oriented guitar, lacks included accessories
9. Schecter Prophecy Extreme 6.
The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is a stunning mid-range electric guitar built for serious players. With its carved quilted maple top in black cherry finish, this guitar delivers both eye-catching looks and powerful performance. Equipped with dual Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers, it produces aggressive tones perfect for hard rock and metal, while offering coil-splitting for added versatility. The rosewood fingerboard and thin C-shaped neck provide smooth playability and fast action. Its sturdy hardware, tune-o-matic bridge, and excellent intonation make it a reliable option for stage and studio. For guitarists seeking a balance of beauty, performance, and affordability, the Omen Extreme-6 is a standout choice.
Technical Specifications:
- Mahogany body with quilted maple top
- Dual Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers
- Rosewood fretboard, 24 jumbo frets
- Stunning Black Cherry finish
Pros:
- Excellent tonal range with heavy distortion capability
- High-quality craftsmanship at an affordable price
- Stylish design appealing to rock and metal players
Cons:
-
Not bundled with accessories (guitar only)
10. ESP LTD KH-202 Kirk Hammett.
.The ESP LTD KH-202 is a signature series model designed for fans of Metallica’s legendary guitarist Kirk Hammett. Featuring a sleek black finish with Kirk’s custom inlays, this guitar offers aggressive style and tone. Equipped with ESP-designed active pickups, it delivers high-output sound ideal for heavy metal and shredding. The extra-thin U-shaped maple neck and 24 extra-jumbo frets provide fast playability, perfect for solos and technical riffs. Its Floyd Rose Special bridge ensures tuning stability, even during intense dive bombs and tremolo use. For aspiring metal players and Kirk Hammett fans, the KH-202 combines professional features with accessible pricing.
Technical Specifications:
- Signature model by Kirk Hammett (Metallica)
- Basswood body with bolt-on maple neck
- ESP-designed LH-301 humbuckers
- 24 extra-jumbo frets, Floyd Rose tremolo system
Pros:
- Perfect for heavy metal and hard rock tones
- Fast neck and smooth playability
- Licensed Floyd Rose allows aggressive whammy effects
Cons:
-
Floyd Rose setup may be difficult for beginners to tune
Where to Buy Your $500 Guitar.
Acquiring a brand-new guitar is hardly ever done on an impulse– especially when you’re dropping around $500. And whether it’s your initial or twenty-first, you want it to be trustworthy, comfy, and look and appear fantastic.
After checking out some evaluations on this site, narrow down a pair you such as, after that go as well as check them out when possible. Head to your regional guitar shop and see what they have in supply. Nevertheless, unless it’s a big store, you may not get to see everything you want.
Should You Choose Made Use Of or New?
Both have their benefits. With a new guitar you know you’re the first owner, and also possibly have a warranty in addition to a couple of weeks reimbursement duration in situation you change your mind.
Getting a made use of guitar can exercise more affordable, yet it features some potential pitfalls. Treat it like you would purchasing a made use of cars and truck.
If you are opting for made use of, prevent thrift shops or flea markets. Adhere to on-line shops or dedicated-guitar stores that can advise you, and also accept returns– particularly in this price range.
What You Should be Seeking In a $500 Electric Guitar.
There really is no one-size-fits-all answer, as different guitars will appeal to you based on your influences, style and aspirations. I’m not a fan of vintage, so the Danelectro D59 doesn’t really appeal to me (even though it looks pretty cool). On the other hand, Led Zeppelin may well be your idols and that’s the first guitar on your list. Everyone is different.
One thing you shouldn’t care too much about in this price range is the brand. Everyone wants to owns a genuine Fender or Gibson, but struggling to afford one when a Squier or Epiphone provide similar looks and sound quality for half the price, really doesn’t make sense.
Are The Reviewed Guitars For Beginners or Professionals?
Short answer: both! Of course, some of the models that we’ve featured are more newbie friendly than others, but in this price range you’ll find a good mix of guitars available that will suit any level of experience and any style of playing from Jazz to Metal.
Remember that every model we present in our Top 10 Charts will have their own page with a detailed review that gives you the lowdown on its features, along with its pros and cons.
The Final Word
The guitars included on this listing are all excellent and also our top selections for the under $500 cost range. However there are hundreds of others that might fit you better. Whether you’re spending $100 or $2000 on a guitar, you’ll intend to make a Best Electric Guitars Under $500. Alternatively, you can learn more about acoustic guitars from our ” best acoustic guitar under 500 ” article if you’re interested.