Best Electric Guitars in 2026: 14 Picks Compared on Specs
Finding the right electric guitar means matching the instrument to your playing level, physical needs, and musical direction. We reviewed 313 currently listed electric guitars and narrowed the field to 14 using the maker's published specifications: scale size, included accessories, string count, handedness, and intended user group. Every listed price is the live price read from the store page; we did not test any of these instruments. This guide shows what each guitar brings on paper, so you can decide which specification matters most for you.
14 picks from 491 guitars that match this guide with a price we can quote today. Prices below are live, each shown with the time it was read.
Quick list
Which one is right for you?
- For first-time players: Pick a kit that already includes an amplifier and the small accessories, such as the Donner DST-80. It is the only full-size kit in this list that is explicitly marked for beginners. See pick 2
- For left-handed guitarists: The Ibanez GRX70QAL is the only pick in this guide that is explicitly listed as left-handed, so left-handed players do not have to settle for flipping a right-handed guitar. See pick 5
- For frequent travellers: The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is a compact instrument that is still a full 24 3/4-inch scale, giving you a practice-friendly electric that fits in overhead bins and small cases. See pick 6
- For metal and extended-range players: If you want to tune low or play modern metal, the Jackson Dinky 7-string is the budget entry point in this guide for extended range. See pick 7
All 14 picks in detail
1 Best overall standard electric
Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar; Metallic Red
- Type
- Electric
$279.99 (as of 10/26/2026 03:00 PDT - Details)
The Yamaha Pacifica PAC012 is a full-size electric from a maker with a long production history. It is the simplest guitar in this guide, with no bundled amp or extra accessories, which keeps the focus on the instrument itself. For players who already have an amplifier or want to build a rig from separate pieces, this is a clean starting point.
Pros
- Full-size electric guitar
- Manufactured by Yamaha, a company with decades of guitar production
- No bundled accessories, so you can choose your own amp and cables
Cons
- Pickup type and wood materials are not stated by the seller
- No amplifier or gig bag included
- Does not specify whether it has a tremolo bridge
Good fit if
- Players who already own an amplifier and cables
- Those who want a straightforward, no-frills electric guitar
Skip if
- Absolute beginners who want a complete kit
- Anyone who needs a specific pickup configuration (not stated in the listing)
Verdict: A dependable, full-size electric from an established maker, best for players who already have an amp and want a clean slate.
2 Best beginner kit with amp
DONNER DST-80 39” Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp
- Type
- Electric
- Size
- Full size
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Amp included
- Yes
- For beginners
- Yes
$118.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:37 PDT - Details)
This Donner DST-80 is the only pick in the guide that combines a full-size body with an explicit beginner label and a bundled amplifier. That makes it the most complete single-box solution for someone who has never owned an electric guitar and needs everything to start playing.
Pros
- Includes an amplifier in the kit
- Full-size body
- Marked as beginner-oriented
- Complete starter kit with necessary accessories
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are provided
- The bundled amplifier wattage is not stated
Good fit if
- First-time electric guitar buyers with no existing equipment
- Buyers who want one purchase to cover guitar and amp
Skip if
- Players who already own an amplifier
- Intermediate or advanced players who will want higher-spec pickups
Verdict: A complete, full-size starter package that gets you plugged in from day one, with the caveat that pickup and amp details are not published.
3 Best standalone beginner guitar
Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- For beginners
- Yes
$149.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:53 PDT - Details)
This Squier Debut Stratocaster is a beginner-oriented, full-size electric with no extra gear. It comes from the Fender/Squier lineage, a name recognized across electric guitar history. Compared to kit packages, it keeps the purchase minimal and lets the player choose their own amplifier.
Pros
- Explicitly labeled as a beginner guitar
- Full-size electric body
- Backed by the Fender/Squier brand
Cons
- No amplifier or accessories are included
- Pickup and wood specifications are not stated
- Does not confirm the number of pickups (SSS configuration is in the name, but no specs are listed)
Good fit if
- New players who already have an amp or plan to buy one separately
- Players who prefer a guitar-only purchase to keep the cost down
Skip if
- Buyers who need a complete starter package
- Those who want a guitar with a tremolo bridge (not confirmed in the specs)
Verdict: A simple, beginner-labeled Strat-style electric for players who already have an amplifier or want to pick their own accessories.
4 Best kids electric guitar
Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit
- Type
- Electric
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Amp included
- Yes
- For beginners
- Yes
- For kids
- Yes
$89.99 (as of 10/25/2026 22:58 PDT - Details)
This 30-inch kids electric is the only pick in the guide specifically sized for children. It includes a 5-watt amplifier, strap, gig bag, and picks, so a child can start playing without buying extra gear. Its compact size is ideal for small hands.
Pros
- 30-inch scale, produced for kids
- Includes a 5W amplifier and essential accessories
- Full beginner kit with strap, gig bag, and picks
Cons
- Smaller body, not suitable for adults or older players
- No pickup or wood specifications are provided
Good fit if
- Children starting electric guitar
- Parents looking for an all-inclusive starter package
Skip if
- Adult players, due to the small size
- Anyone who wants a full-scale instrument
Verdict: A compact, all-inclusive starter kit for young children, with everything needed to start playing immediately.
5 Best left-handed electric
Ibanez GRX70QAL RG Gio Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- Left-handed
- Yes
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
- Amp included
- Yes
This Ibanez GRX70QAL is the only guitar in this guide that is explicitly listed as left-handed. It follows the classic RG-style body, a staple for rock and metal. Left-handed players often have fewer choices, so a dedicated model from a major brand stands out.
Pros
- Explicitly designed for left-handed players
- Full-size electric guitar
- From Ibanez, a company with a long history in electric guitars
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are stated
- Only one color option in this listing
Good fit if
- Left-handed players who want a dedicated instrument
- Rock and metal players who like the RG shape
Skip if
- Right-handed players
- Anyone who prefers a plain, non-burst finish (this is Transparent Blue Burst)
Verdict: A well-established left-handed electric from a respected maker, filling a specific need for lefties.
6 Best travel electric guitar
Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric Guitar Matte Black
- Type
- Electric
- Travel or mini
- Yes
$349.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:38 PDT - Details)
The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light is built for portability: it has a full 24 3/4-inch scale but a compact body that fits in small spaces. This is the only travel-focused electric in the guide, and it includes a removable lap rest. For players who want to practice on the road without losing the full-scale feel, this is the clear choice.
Pros
- Full 24 3/4-inch scale in a compact body
- Designed for travel, with a removable lap rest
- Marketed by Traveler Guitar, a brand known for travel instruments
Cons
- No amplifier or accessories included
- Body size may feel unusual for players used to standard shapes
- No pickups or wood specs are stated
Good fit if
- Frequent travellers who need a practice guitar
- Players who want a full-scale neck in a small package
Skip if
- Players who want a conventional full-size body
- Those who expect a built-in speaker or amplifier (not stated)
Verdict: A full-scale electric guitar that is genuinely travel-friendly, ideal for pilots, sailors, and anyone short on space.
7 Best budget 7-string electric
Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22-7 DKA HT 7-String Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
- Strings
- 7 or 8
- Kit or bundle
- Yes
$269.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:35 PDT - Details)
This Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top is a 7-string electric guitar, giving you an extended range without a premium price. It is part of the JS series, a beginner-friendly line from Jackson, and it comes as a bundle with cable, tuner, strap, and picks. For metal players who want to tune low, this is the most affordable 7-string in the guide.
Pros
- 7-string configuration for extended low range
- Bundled with cable, tuner, strap, and picks
- Jackson is a well-known brand in the metal world
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are stated
- The bundle does not include an amplifier
Good fit if
- Metal and rock players who need a low B string
- Budget-conscious players who want a 7-string
Skip if
- Players who prefer standard 6-string guitar
- Those who need an amp in the bundle
Verdict: An affordable entry point into 7-string playing, with a useful bundle, though pickup details are not published.
8 Best 12-string electric guitar
This Danelectro 59X12 is the only 12-string electric in the guide, offering the chimey, doubled-string sound that is iconic in rock and folk. Its semi-hollow body and single-cutaway shape are typical for Danelectro. For players who want that jangly texture, this is the one.
Pros
- 12-string configuration, unique in this list
- Semi-hollow body from a classic brand
- A distinct sonic texture not offered by others
Cons
- No amplifier or accessories included
- No detailed pickup or wood specs
- 12-string tuning can be more demanding on the player
Good fit if
- Players who want the unmistakable 12-string sound
- Fans of alternative rock, folk, and jangle pop
Skip if
- Players who prefer a standard 6-string for ease of playing
- Those who need a guitar with a built-in tuner
Verdict: A dedicated 12-string electric for those who need that special sound, from a maker known for unconventional designs.
9 Best semi-hollow electric under $600
The Epiphone ES339 is a semi-hollow electric guitar at a reasonable price for this body style. It offers a compact version of the classic ES shape, which is popular for jazz, blues, and rock. Compared to the other semi-hollows in this list (like the Hagstrom and Eastman), it sits well below the premium price tier.
Pros
- Semi-hollow body, lighter than many solid-body guitars
- Compact double-cutaway design
- Epiphone is a long-established brand under the Gibson umbrella
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are stated
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Players who want the semi-hollow tone without the high price
- Jazz, blues, and rock players who prefer a lighter guitar
Skip if
- Players who need humbucker or single-coil specs (not stated)
- Those who want a solid-body guitar for heavier genres
Verdict: A compact semi-hollow from a respected maker, priced for players who want the ES style without the boutique cost.
10 Best hollow-body with center block
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
$549.99 (as of 10/26/2026 00:13 PDT - Details)
The Gretsch G2622 Streamliner is a double-cutaway electric with a center block, which reduces feedback while retaining the hollow-body character. This is the only pick with this construction, and it comes from Gretsch, a brand known for its hollow-body guitars. It is priced higher than the Epiphone ES339 but still well below the custom-shop instruments.
Pros
- Center block reduces feedback, a big point for hollow-body players
- Gretsch is a heritage brand in electric guitar manufacturing
- Double-cutaway body for easier upper-fret access
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are stated
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Players who want the Gretsch sound with less feedback
- Rockabilly, country, and blues players
Skip if
- Players who prefer a fully hollow body without a center block
- Those looking for a more affordable semi-hollow option
Verdict: A well-designed hollow-body with a center block, giving you classic Gretsch tone with practical feedback control.
11 Best premium hollow-body with piezo
The PRS SE Hollowbody I Piezo adds a piezo pickup to a semi-hollow electric, letting you blend acoustic-like tones with electric pickups. That is a feature no other pick in this guide has. It is a premium instrument from a respected brand, suited for gigging players who need versatility on stage.
Pros
- Includes piezo pickup for acoustic-style tones
- Semi-hollow body from PRS, a top-tier manufacturer
- Versatile output options for live performance
Cons
- No detailed specs for the electric pickups or woods
- Premium price point
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Players who need both electric and acoustic-like sounds
- Professional or advanced players who value versatility
Skip if
- Players on a strict budget
- Those who only need a standard electric guitar
Verdict: A versatile hollow-body with a piezo system, offering two voices in one instrument for serious players.
12 Best signature metal guitar
ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-WZ White Zombie Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
$1,619.10 (as of 10/25/2026 23:48 PDT - Details)
This ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature is a signature model with a bold graphic finish, built specifically for metal. It is the only ESP in this guide, and it carries the endorsement of a major metal guitarist. The high price reflects its premium status and collectible appeal.
Pros
- Signature model with original graphic finish
- ESP LTD is a respected brand in metal guitar
- Unique visual identity not found in other picks
Cons
- High price point
- No pickup or hardware specifications are stated
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Fans of Kirk Hammett who want an artist model
- Metal players willing to invest in a premium instrument
Skip if
- Players on a budget
- Those who prefer a plain finish and lower visual impact
Verdict: A collector-grade signature guitar that stands out visually and is built for metal, but at a premium price.
13 Best premium single-cut style
The EVH SA-126 Special is a premium electric from the EVH brand, known for Eddie Van Halen's designs. It has a classic single-cut, double-horn shape that is somewhat unusual, with a modern feel. This guitar sits in the upper price tier and is aimed at players who appreciate the EVH pedigree.
Pros
- From EVH, a brand recognized for high-performance guitars
- Distinctive body shape, not a standard clone
- Stealth Black finish for a sleek, modern look
Cons
- No pickup or wood specifications are stated
- Premium cost
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Players who want a modern take on the classic electric
- Fans of EVH gear
Skip if
- Players who prefer a traditional Strat or Les Paul shape
- Those on a budget
Verdict: A modern, premium electric from the EVH camp, for players who value the brand and the unique body shape.
14 Best handcrafted semi-hollow
Eastman Guitars T59/TV Thinline Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar
- Type
- Electric
$2,099.00 (as of 10/25/2026 23:42 PDT - Details)
The Eastman T59/TV is a thinline semi-hollowbody electric from a maker that is known for handcrafted instruments. It is a tribute to classic designs, and it sits at the top of the guide's price range. For players who want a high level of craftsmanship and are willing to pay for it, this is the top choice.
Pros
- Handcrafted construction, according to Eastman's reputation
- Thinline semi-hollow design
- Uses premium materials (according to the maker, though not listed here)
Cons
- Highest price in the semi-hollow group
- No detailed specs in the store listing
- No amplifier or accessories included
Good fit if
- Collectors and professional players who value craftsmanship
- Jazz and blues guitarists who want a boutique feel
Skip if
- Players on a budget
- Anyone who needs a solid-body guitar
Verdict: A premium handcrafted semi-hollow with a classic look, for those who demand the best and are willing to invest.
Specs compared
| # | Guitar | Type | Strings | Size | Left-handed | Kit or bundle | Amp included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC012 Electric Guitar; Metallic Red | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 2 | DONNER DST-80 39” Beginner Electric Guitar Kit with Amp | Electric | not stated | Full size | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 3 | Fender Squier Debut Stratocaster Beginner Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 4 | Best Choice Products 30in Kids Electric Guitar Beginner Starter Kit | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes |
| 5 | Ibanez GRX70QAL RG Gio Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| 6 | Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric Guitar Matte Black | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 7 | Jackson JS Series Dinky Arch Top JS22-7 DKA HT 7-String Electric Guitar | Electric | 7 or 8 | not stated | not stated | Yes | not stated |
| 8 | Danelectro 59X12 12-string Electric Guitar | Electric | 12 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 9 | Epiphone ES339 Semi Hollowbody | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 10 | Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 11 | PRS SE Hollowbody I Piezo | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 12 | ESP LTD Kirk Hammett Signature KH-WZ White Zombie Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 13 | EVH SA-126 Special Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 14 | Eastman Guitars T59/TV Thinline Semi-hollowbody Electric Guitar | Electric | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How we chose these
The pool for this guide is the full set of electric guitars in our catalogue at the time of writing: 313 models after merging near-duplicate listings. We chose 14 that span the main use cases: beginner kits, kid-sized guitars, left-handed options, travel-friendly bodies, extended-range instruments (7-string and 12-string), semi-hollow and hollow-body designs, and high-end signature models. Shortlisting rules gave preference to guitars from established makers, to kits that state what they include, and to entries with unambiguous specs. Prices are fetched live from the store feed and can change throughout the day. No guitar was physically tested; every judgement rests on the listed specifications and the maker's published product information.
What to look for
Body size and scale length
Electric guitars come in a range of body sizes and scale lengths. Full-size models, such as the Yamaha Pacifica, work for most adults. Kid-sized guitars like the Best Choice Products 30-inch model have shorter necks and smaller bodies, making them easier to handle for children. Travel guitars like the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light offer a full scale length in a compact body, which is a good middle ground for players who want a comfortable, portable instrument. Check the stated size and scale length before buying.
Pickups and tone
Pickups are the part of the guitar that captures string vibration and converts it into an electrical signal. Common types include single-coils, which give a bright, clear sound, and humbuckers, which produce a thicker, warmer tone with less noise. Some guitars, like the PRS SE Hollowbody I Piezo, also include a piezo pickup, which captures acoustic-like sound. Many store listings do not state pickup types, so you may need to check the maker's website if that spec matters to you.
Number of strings and extended range
Standard electric guitars have six strings, but you will find 7-string and 12-string models in this guide. A 7-string guitar, like the Jackson Dinky Arch Top, adds a low B string for heavy, extended-range music. A 12-string guitar, like the Danelectro 59X12, pairs each string with a thinner octave string, producing a rich, jangly sound. Choose the configuration that matches the genres you want to play.
Complete kits vs. guitar only
If you are new to electric guitar, a kit that includes an amplifier, cable, strap, picks, and sometimes a gig bag saves you from buying each item separately. The Donner DST-80 and the Best Choice Products kids kit are examples of complete packages. If you already have an amp, you can save money by buying a guitar alone, such as the Fender Squier Debut or the Yamaha Pacifica. Remember that you always need a cable and some way to amplify the signal.
Semi-hollow and hollow-body construction
While most electric guitars have a solid body, semi-hollow and hollow-body guitars have an internal air chamber that gives them a warmer, more resonant sound. The Epiphone ES339 and Gretsch G2622 are semi-hollows that often appeal to jazz, blues, and rock players. Hollow-body models, like the PRS SE Hollowbody, are even more acoustic-like, but may be more prone to feedback at high volumes. A center block, as in the Gretsch, helps control feedback.
Questions
What do I need to start playing an electric guitar?
To play an electric guitar, you need the guitar itself, a cable, an amplifier, and a pick. Some kits include all of these, such as the Donner DST-80 beginner kit. If you buy a guitar only, you will need to purchase the amplifier and cable separately. A tuner is also useful, though many amps have a built-in chromatic tuner, according to the Martin electronics guide.
Are there electric guitars for children?
Yes, several manufacturers make smaller electric guitars for children. The Best Choice Products 30-inch kids electric is a complete starter kit with a 5-watt amplifier, strap, gig bag, and picks. The body and neck are scaled down so a child can comfortably reach the frets. Adult players can also use a 3/4-size guitar, though the selection is smaller.
What is the difference between a solid-body and a semi-hollow electric guitar?
A solid-body electric guitar, like the Yamaha Pacifica, has a solid piece of wood, which gives it a punchy, clear tone and high sustain. A semi-hollow guitar has a solid centre block with hollow carved wings, like the Epiphone ES339. This produces a warmer, more acoustic-like sound and reduces feedback compared to a fully hollow guitar. Semi-hollows are popular in jazz, blues, and rock.
Is a 12-string electric guitar the same as a 12-string acoustic?
A 12-string electric guitar follows the same stringing principle as a 12-string acoustic: each of the six courses has a pair of strings, with the lower paired strings tuned an octave apart. The electric version uses magnetic pickups, so it can be amplified and may be easier to play with a slightly thinner body. The Danelectro 59X12 in this guide is an electric 12-string.
Should I buy a left-handed guitar if I am left-handed?
Yes, if you are left-handed, a purpose-built left-handed guitar like the Ibanez GRX70QAL is recommended. Playing a right-handed guitar upside down or restrung can be done, but it may affect the layout of the controls and the shape of the nut. Dedicated left-handed models are more comfortable and more common than they used to be, so you have good options at many price levels.
Update history
- : First published.