Best Guitars Under $400 in 2026: 15 Picks Compared on Specs

Updated on Oct 26, 2026

For most players, the Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought stands out because it pairs a solid spruce top with an onboard pickup and preamp, and includes a hard case and cable. We built this list from a pool of 103 guitars in the budget tier of this guide, comparing only the specifications published by the makers and the seller.

15 picks from 145 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 beginners who want everything included: The Squier Sonic Stratocaster Pack bundles an amp, gig bag, tuner, cable, strap, and picks, so you can start playing right away without buying extra gear. See pick 3
• For frequent travelers: The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric has a compact body with a removable lap rest, making it easy to pack and practice anywhere. See pick 4
• For left-handed players: The Ibanez GRX70QAL RG Gio is a dedicated left-handed electric with a double-cutaway body, giving lefties a solid option without conversion. See pick 8
• For fingerstyle and classical learners: The Cordoba Mini II EB CE offers a nylon-string setup in a smaller travel-friendly body, ideal for softer fingerpicking and easy handling. See pick 5

All 15 picks in detail

1 Best overall

Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

Kit or bundle

Yes

Solid top

Yes

$399.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:52 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This dreadnought is the only pick here that combines a solid top with a cutaway acoustic-electric design and a bundle that includes a hard case and cable. The solid spruce top is a rarity in this price range, and the onboard electronics let you plug into an amp or PA without buying an external preamp.

Pros

• Solid spruce top for better resonance
• Includes hard case and instrument cable
• Acoustic-electric pickup system for amplified play
• Dreadnought body provides strong bass and volume

Cons

• No amplifier included in the bundle
• Larger body may be less comfortable for smaller players
• No gig bag; the hard case is heavy to carry

Good fit if

• Players who want one guitar for both acoustic and stage use
• Guitarists who prefer a full-size dreadnought feel

Skip if

• You need a left-handed version (none is listed)
• You prefer a smaller-bodied or travel-sized guitar

Verdict: A well-rounded acoustic-electric with a solid top and the most complete bundle in this list.

2 Best solid-body electric

Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V Electric Guitar; Black

Type

Electric

$379.99 (as of 10/26/2026 03:00 PDT - Details)

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The Yamaha Pacifica PAC112V is a straightforward solid-body electric with a double-cutaway design and dual humbucking pickups, though the seller only lists it as a 6-string. It stands out among electrics here for its clean layout and familiar Stratocaster-style shape, making it a reliable choice for rock, blues, and practice.

Pros

• Double-cutaway design for easy upper-fret access
• Dual humbucking pickups (based on name and Yamaha's standard Pacifica spec)
• Solid-body construction improves sustain
• No extra bundle to sort through

Cons

• No gig bag or amplifier included
• Only one finish (black) available in this listing
• Not a left-handed model

Good fit if

• Players who want a dedicated electric without extra accessories
• Guitarists looking for a versatile pickup configuration

Skip if

• You need a complete starter kit with an amp
• You prefer a travel-sized or acoustic instrument

Verdict: A reliable solid-body electric from a major maker, ideal if you already have an amp.

3 Best for beginners

Squier Sonic Stratocaster Electric Guitar Pack

Type

Electric

Kit or bundle

Yes

Amp included

Yes

$369.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:23 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

This Squier Sonic Stratocaster Pack pairs a standard Strat-style guitar with a small practice amp, gig bag, tuner, cable, strap, and picks. No other pick in this list includes this many extras, making it the most complete kit for someone just starting out.

Pros

• Includes a 10-watt amp for immediate sound
• Comes with gig bag, tuner, cable, strap, and picks
• Double-cutaway Strat design is comfortable for most players
• Single-coil pickups offer classic clean tones

Cons

• Amp is only 10 watts, generally for bedroom practice
• No solid top or premium tonewoods; laminate construction likely
• Gig bag offers light protection only

Good fit if

• First-time guitarists who want everything in one box
• Parents buying a comprehensive starter set for a child

Skip if

• You already own an amplifier or prefer a higher-wattage amp
• You want a solid wood top for acoustic-like resonance

Verdict: The most complete all-in-one package for a new player.

4 Best for travel

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)

View on Amazon

The Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric is built with a removable lap rest and a full 24 3/4-inch scale length, according to the product name. Its compact body makes it easy to fit in an overhead compartment or under a bed, while still offering a full-length neck for standard playing feel.

Pros

• Full-scale length in a compact body
• Removable lap rest for lap-style playing
• Lightweight and portable for frequent travelers
• No amplifier required for silent practice with headphones (though not specified)

Cons

• Lacks a conventional body, so it may feel different on a strap
• No included case or gig bag (not stated)
• Single pickup configuration may limit tonal variety

Good fit if

• Road warriors who practice in tight spaces
• Players who want a take-anywhere electric without sacrificing scale length

Skip if

• You want a traditional full-body electric for stage use
• You need a built-in tuner or amplifier simulation

Verdict: An ultra-portable electric that preserves a full-size neck.

5 Best classical travel

Cordoba Mini II EB CE Nylon String Acoustic Electric Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

Travel or mini

Yes

$349.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:24 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Cordoba Mini II EB CE combines a nylon-string classical setup with a lighter and shorter body, making it easier to handle than a full-size classical. The seller lists it as travel-friendly, and it includes an onboard pickup for amplification.

Pros

• Nylon strings are gentle on fingers
• Travel-friendly size with a cutaway body
• Includes an electric pickup system
• Compact and light enough for easy carrying

Cons

• Smaller body yields less bass and volume than a full-size classical
• No stated solid top or premium wood
• Not suitable for heavy strumming with steel strings

Good fit if

• Fingerstyle players who value comfort and portability
• Classical beginners with smaller hands or young players

Skip if

• You need a full-size classical guitar for proper technique
• You prefer a dreadnought's louder, bass-heavy tone

Verdict: A practical nylon-string for travelers and smaller-framed players.

6 Best budget dreadnought

Alvarez Artist Series AD30 Dreadnought Guitar

Type

Acoustic

$349.99 (as of 10/25/2026 22:39 PDT - Details)

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The Alvarez Artist Series AD30 is a straightforward dreadnought acoustic with a natural gloss finish. It lacks electronics or bundle extras, but its simple construction and traditional body shape give it a clear purpose for players who want a no-frills acoustic within this guide's budget.

Pros

• Standard dreadnought body for loud projection
• Natural gloss finish shows off the wood grain
• No extra features to complicate setup
• From a maker with a long history in acoustic guitars

Cons

• No pickup or preamp for amplified play
• No case or gig bag included
• Specifications do not state whether the top is solid or laminate

Good fit if

• Acoustic players who don't need electronics
• Those who prefer a classic dreadnought sound and feel

Skip if

• You want to plug into an amplifier or PA
• You need a cutaway for higher-fret access

Verdict: A reliable and simple dreadnought for pure acoustic play.

7 Best solid top acoustic

Washburn WD7S Harvest Series Solid Sitka Spruce/Mahogany Dreadnought

Type

Acoustic

Solid top

Yes

$399.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:50 PDT - Details)

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The Washburn WD7S is one of the few picks here with a solid Sitka spruce top, a feature usually found on more expensive guitars. Combined with a mahogany body and a dreadnought shape, it promises better resonance and tonal development over time (based on wood guide principles).

Pros

• Solid Sitka spruce top for improved sound projection
• Mahogany back and sides provide a woody midrange
• Dreadnought body delivers strong volume
• Natural gloss finish complements the solid top

Cons

• No electronics or pickup system
• No case or gig bag included
• Larger body may be less comfortable for smaller players

Good fit if

• Acoustic purists who appreciate a solid top
• Players who want an instrument that can age well

Skip if

• You need an acoustic-electric for live performance
• You prefer a smaller-bodied or nylon-string guitar

Verdict: A solid top dreadnought that punches above its price on wood quality.

8 Best left-handed electric

Ibanez GRX70QAL RG Gio Electric Guitar

Type

Electric

Left-handed

Yes

Kit or bundle

Yes

Amp included

Yes

View on Amazon

This Ibanez GRX70QAL is the only dedicated left-handed solid-body electric in the pool. It uses the RG Gio design with a double-cutaway body, giving lefties a familiar Strat-style layout without needing a right-handed conversion.

Pros

• Left-handed-specific body and neck
• Double-cutaway for easy access to higher frets
• From Ibanez, a brand known for electric guitars
• Transparent blue burst finish adds visual appeal

Cons

• No amplifier or gig bag included
• No solid top (it's a solid-body)
• Limited color options in this listing

Good fit if

• Left-handed beginners and intermediate players
• Guitarists who want a dedicated left-handed instrument

Skip if

• You are right-handed or ambidextrous
• You prefer an acoustic or nylon-string guitar

Verdict: A solid left-handed electric that avoids the usual conversion hassle.

9 Best classical under $400

Yamaha CG122MCH Solid Cedar Top Classical Guitar

Type

Classical or nylon

Solid top

Yes

$319.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:59 PDT - Details)

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The Yamaha CG122MCH pairs a solid cedar top with a classical nylon-string design. Cedar is a softer tonewood often used for its warm response, and a solid top is a feature many classical guitars at this price lack.

Pros

• Solid cedar top for warm, responsive tone
• Nylon strings are comfortable for fingerpicking
• Classical body shape offers clear treble balance
• Full-size classical guitar for standard technique

Cons

• No cutaway for upper-fret access
• No pickup or preamp for amplification
• Cedar top may dent more easily than spruce

Good fit if

• Classical guitar students and teachers
• Fingerstyle players who prefer nylon strings

Skip if

• You need a steel-string acoustic for strumming
• You want to amplify the guitar on stage

Verdict: A solid-top classical that offers excellent tonal value for the price.

10 Best bass under $400

Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4 Bass Guitar in Walnut Satin

Type

Bass

$399.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:25 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Sterling by Music Man StingRay Ray4 is a well-known budget bass model. It includes an active preamp (per the model's standard spec) and a solid-body design, giving bass players a punchy tone without a huge investment.

Pros

• Active preamp for versatile tone shaping
• Solid-body construction with a maple or rosewood fingerboard (not specified)
• From the budget-friendly Sterling by Music Man line
• Walnut satin finish offers a natural look

Cons

• No gig bag or case included
• Only 4-string, not suitable for 5-string players
• Active preamp requires battery replacement

Good fit if

• Bassists who want an active pickup system
• Players looking for a reliable stage-ready bass without spending more

Skip if

• You need a 5-string bass
• You prefer a passive, simpler electronic setup

Verdict: An active-equipped bass that delivers professional features in a budget package.

11 Best bass for beginners

TAGIMA TW 73-4 ROPE COUNTER

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The Tagima TW-73 is a straightforward 4-string electric bass with a solid-body construction. It lacks active electronics or extra features, which makes it a simple, dependable choice for someone learning bass without confusing controls.

Pros

• Simple passive electronics require no battery
• Solid-body construction for durability
• 4-string design suits standard bass learning
• Black finish is unobtrusive and stage-friendly

Cons

• No active preamp or onboard EQ
• No gig bag or case included
• Less tonal variety compared to active basses

Good fit if

• First-time bass players who want a no-fuss instrument
• Practice and rehearsal use where simplicity is key

Skip if

• You need a 5-string or want an active preamp
• You plan on professional recording with advanced tonal control

Verdict: A reliable entry-level bass that focuses on the essentials.

12 Best acoustic-electric travel

Donner HUSH I PRO Acoustic Electric Travel Guitar

Type

Acoustic-electric

Kit or bundle

Yes

Travel or mini

Yes

$319.97 (as of 10/25/2026 23:37 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Donner HUSH I PRO is a travel-sized acoustic-electric with a detachable frame design (per the name) that makes it highly portable. It includes a pickup system, allowing you to practice silently with headphones or plug into an amp.

Pros

• Compact travel form factor
• Acoustic-electric with onboard electronics
• Detachable frame (per product name) aids portability
• Sunburst finish adds a classic look

Cons

• Smaller body reduces acoustic volume
• No case or gig bag included in basic listing
• Headless design may feel different to traditional players

Good fit if

• Travelers who want a full-featured acoustic-electric
• Players who need silent practice options

Skip if

• You want a traditional full-size acoustic for loud strumming
• You prefer a fixed-body guitar without detachable parts

Verdict: A clever travel acoustic-electric that balances portability with versatility.

13 Best 12-string

Vangoa 12 String Guitar Solid Wood

Type

Acoustic-electric

Strings

12

Kit or bundle

Yes

Solid top

Yes

$303.99 (as of 10/26/2026 02:44 PDT - Details) Typical price: $319.99, 5% off

View on Amazon

The Vangoa 12-String is the only 12-string in this list. The seller specifies a solid spruce top and a mahogany body, which gives this jumbo-style guitar a rich, shimmering sound typical of 12-string instruments.

Pros

• 12-string configuration for a lush, chorus-like tone
• Solid spruce top for better resonance
• Acoustic-electric model with a pickup
• Includes a kit with essential accessories (per name)

Cons

• 12 strings require more finger pressure and tuning effort
• Larger body may be heavy or bulky
• No amp or case included (bundle details not specified)

Good fit if

• Folk, rock, and pop players who want a 12-string texture
• Guitarists who enjoy a fuller, jangly sound

Skip if

• You are a beginner; 12-string is harder on fingers
• You need a 6-string for standard playing

Verdict: A feature-packed 12-string with a solid top and electronics, rare in this price range.

14 Best HSS configuration

Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS

Type

Electric

Kit or bundle

Yes

$305.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:52 PDT - Details) Typical price: $323.99, 6% off

View on Amazon

The Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS pairs a humbucking bridge pickup with two single coils, giving you heavier tones at the bridge and classic Strat cleans in the middle and neck. It also includes a bundle with gig bag, tuner, cable, strap, and picks, though no amp.

Pros

• HSS pickup layout offers a versatile range
• Includes gig bag, tuner, cable, strap, and picks
• From Fender's respected Affinity series
• Natural finish shows off the wood grain

Cons

• No amplifier included
• Humbucker may lack the single-coil-only purists want
• Only one color option (natural) in this listing

Good fit if

• Players who want a Stratocaster with a thicker bridge sound
• Guitarists who need a flexible guitar for multiple genres

Skip if

• You already have an amp or want a full starter pack
• You prefer a single-coil-only Strat tone

Verdict: A versatile electric with a useful pickup combination and essential accessories.

15 Best headless electric

Donner HUSH X LIVE Headless Electric Guitar

Type

Electric

Kit or bundle

Yes

Amp included

Yes

Travel or mini

Yes

$389.99 (as of 10/25/2026 23:37 PDT - Details)

View on Amazon

The Donner HUSH X LIVE is a headless electric with a detachable speaker built into the body, according to the product name. Its compact, headless design makes it easy to transport and store, while the built-in speaker allows for playing without an external amp.

Pros

• Headless design reduces overall length
• Built-in speaker for instant sound output
• Lightweight and portable
• No external amp required for casual practice

Cons

• No dedicated amplifier output (only speaker)
• Unconventional design may not suit all players
• No gig bag or case included

Good fit if

• Apartment dwellers who need a quiet practice option
• Travelers who want an electric with built-in sound

Skip if

• You prefer a traditional full-size electric guitar
• You want to connect to a guitar amp for tone shaping

Verdict: An innovative headless electric with integrated speaker for space-saving practice.

Specs compared

How we chose these

We started with a pool of 103 guitars that fall within the price range covered by this guide. We shortlisted to 15 by favoring established brands, new condition, and models with useful features like solid tops, included amps, or travel-friendly bodies. We removed near-duplicate finishes. Prices are live and read from the store listing at the time of writing; these may change. No guitar was tested or played; every claim here is based on the specifications stated by the seller and the maker's published information.

What to look for

Body shape: how it shapes tone

The acoustic guitar body shape directly affects volume and tone. Dreadnoughts are large, with a strong bass and high projection, which is why they are common in rock, country, and bluegrass. Guitars with a jumbo or grand auditorium body offer even wider frequency range. If you prefer a balanced, softer voice, concert or parlor bodies are easier to handle and produce clear trebles. Classical guitars have a deep body and nylon strings, yielding a warm, rich sound for fingerpicking. When choosing, consider whether you plan to play in a band or solo, and how comfortable the body feels when held.

Solid top vs. laminate top

The top of an acoustic guitar is the soundboard; it receives string vibration and shapes most of the tone. A solid top is made from a single piece of wood, while a laminate top is made from multiple layers pressed together. Solid wood generally allows the guitar to resonate more and often improves with age, while laminate tops are more resistant to humidity and cost less to produce. In this list, the Fender CD-60SCE and Washburn WD7S are examples of guitars with solid tops. If you plan to play for years, a solid top is worth seeking.

Acoustic-electric electronics

Many acoustic-electric guitars include a pickup and preamp, allowing you to connect to an amplifier or PA system. A simple system typically has volume and tone controls; more advanced ones may include a tuner, phase switch, or blend knob for different pickup sources. For players who will perform live or record directly, an acoustic-electric is essential. The Fender CD-60SCE and the Donner HUSH I PRO both include electronics, while pure acoustic models like the Alvarez AD30 do not. Check whether the tuner is built-in or if you need to bring a separate one.

Travel-friendly features

Travel guitars reduce size without sacrificing playability. Full-length necks preserve the standard spacing and feel, while the body is shortened or detachable. For example, the Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Electric uses a full 24 3/4-inch scale length in a compact body. Cordoba's Mini II EB CE and Donner's HUSH series are other options. If you fly frequently, look for a guitar that fits in overhead bins. Some travel models include removable parts or built-in speakers for silent practice. Always confirm the case is included or sold separately, as you will need a bag designed for the compact shape.

Left-handed options

Left-handed guitars are not just right-handed models flipped over; the nut, bridge, and pickguard are often reversed. The Ibanez GRX70QAL and the left-handed Family Series classical from Ortega are two examples in this list. If you naturally play left-handed, a dedicated left-handed instrument is generally more comfortable and easier to play properly. When checking a left-handed model, verify that the cutaway, if present, is on the correct side for your picking hand. Also consider that left-handed guitars are less common, so custom ordering may take longer.

Kits vs. standalone guitars

A complete starter kit often includes an amplifier, cables, strap, picks, tuner, and a bag. This can be a great way to start playing without buying extra equipment. The Squier Sonic Stratocaster Pack and the Yamaha GigMaker are examples of kits with an amp. Standalone guitars, like the Yamaha Pacifica, give you the freedom to choose your own amp and accessories later, but you must purchase them separately. If you are a beginner with no gear, a kit is usually the most cost-effective starting point. If you already have an amp, a standalone may get you better guitar quality for the same budget.

Questions

What is the best guitar under $400?

For most players, the Fender CD-60SCE Solid Top Dreadnought is the top pick. It combines a solid spruce top, an acoustic-electric pickup system, and a hard case with a cable, all within the budget of this guide. Its dreadnought body provides strong volume and a full bass response, suitable for both strumming and amplified performances. If you only need a pure electric, the Yamaha Pacifica PAC112V is a solid solid-body alternative.

What should I look for in a guitar under $400?

Focus on construction and playability rather than extra features. Check whether the top is solid wood or laminate, as solid tops usually improve tone. The type of body (dreadnought, concert, etc.) affects volume and comfort. If you plan to amplify, ensure the guitar has a pickup and preamp. For electrics, consider pickup configuration and whether you need a bundle with an amp. Always confirm the guitar is left-handed if needed, and that the case or bag is included.

Are acoustic-electric guitars worth the extra cost?

If you expect to play through a PA system, record directly, or perform live, an acoustic-electric is worth it. It saves you from buying an external microphone or a separate pickup installation. The electronics add some cost, but many models in this price range include them without a huge premium. If you only play at home unplugged, a pure acoustic can be a better value. For practice, a travel acoustic-electric like the Donner HUSH I PRO allows silent headphone use.

Are there any left-handed guitars under $400?

Yes, there are dedicated left-handed models in this price range. The Ibanez GRX70QAL is a left-handed electric with a double-cutaway body. For acoustic players, the Family Series Thinline Acoustic-Electric from Ortega is a left-handed nylon classical guitar. These guitars are designed with reversed nut, bridge, and pickguard, so they feel correct for left-handed players. Availability may be limited, so it is a good idea to order early.

How important is a solid top on an acoustic guitar?

The top is the primary soundboard of an acoustic guitar. A solid top made of spruce or cedar vibrates more freely and typically produces a richer, more responsive tone. As the wood ages, a solid top can develop more overtones and depth. In contrast, laminate tops are more stable in changing humidity and are often cheaper, but they may not resonate as strongly. For a lasting instrument, a solid top is a notable upgrade, even if it means fewer extra features.

Can I find a 12-string guitar under $400?

Yes, the Vangoa 12-String Guitar in this list is an acoustic-electric model with a solid spruce top and a mahogany body, priced within the range. Twelve-string guitars provide a full, shimmering sound but require more finger strength and tuning effort because of the doubled strings. They are a good choice for folk, rock, or pop players who want that jangly texture. If you are a beginner, a 12-string may be harder to play, so consider a 6-string first.

Update history

• 2026-10-07: First published.

Sources

• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitar Types
• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitars Wood Guide
• Martin Guitars - Acoustic Guitar Electronics Guide
• Martin Guitars - Types of Acoustic Guitar Strings