How to choose your first electric guitar
Which shape, which pickups and how much to spend on your first electric guitar, with the best sellers under £300 and today's price in every shop.
Which shape
- Stratocaster style (ST): the most versatile and comfortable, for pop, rock, blues and funk. If in doubt, start here.
- Telecaster style (T): simpler, with a bright, direct sound, a favourite in rock and country.
- Single cut (Les Paul style): a thicker sound with more sustain, great for rock and blues. Usually heavier.
- Superstrat: thin neck and hot pickups, built for hard rock and metal.
Pickups: single coils or humbuckers
Single coils sound clear and bright; humbuckers sound fatter and hum less with distortion. An HSS layout gives you both and is the most versatile choice for a beginner.
How much to spend
Between £150 and £300 you'll find guitars that sound good and last for years: Yamaha Pacifica, Squier, Ibanez GIO, Epiphone or Harley Benton, among others. An electric needs an amp (or a small headphone amp); if you're starting from scratch, a starter pack is often cheaper.
The same model can vary by tens of pounds between shops. guitle compares the price in 33 shops every day and keeps its price history.
Electric guitars under £300 sold by the most shops (today's prices) See all →
Frequently asked questions
Which electric guitar should a beginner buy?
A Stratocaster-style guitar with HSS pickups between £150 and £300: Yamaha Pacifica, Squier and Ibanez GIO are very common first guitars.
Do I need an amp to play electric guitar?
Yes: without an amp you'll barely hear it. A small practice amp or a headphone amp is enough to start.
Is an electric guitar starter pack worth it?
If you're starting from scratch, yes: guitar, amp and accessories cost less than buying them separately.