Best Electric Guitar under 300 Dollars

Picking the best electric guitar under 300 that plays wonderfully as well as will make you sound like a superstar isn’t very easy. Not all spending plan electric guitars in the $300 rate range are made of strong tonewoods as well as have great electronics as well as pickups. Some less expensive electric guitars also have a tendency to affordable out on the equipment like bridges as well as tuners.

That’s why we made this evaluation. We wanted to reveal to you all of the most prominent $300 electric guitars that are made of high-quality materials as well as are worth purchasing. It doesn’t matter whether this if your very first electric guitar or merely a newbie guitar that you intend to learn on. We’ll show you which one is right for you and also will certainly make you right into the rockstar you intend to me.

10 Best Electric Guitar under 300 Dollars

1-Squier by Fender Classic Vibe 70’s Stratocaster Electric Guitar

The Fender Squier Classic Vibe 70s Stratocaster is a perfect balance of vintage style and modern playability, making it a top choice for those seeking the best electric guitar under budget. Featuring a black finish with a smooth laurel fingerboard, it delivers excellent comfort and fast action for both beginners and experienced players. Its trio of single-coil pickups provides classic Strat tones—bright, crisp, and versatile across genres. The build quality is impressive, with solid craftsmanship that feels premium for its price range. Ideal for rock, blues, or funk, this guitar captures the ’70s vibe while offering dependable performance, making it a fantastic pick for players who want authentic Fender tone without breaking the bank.

2-Jackson JS32 Warrior Electric Guitar (Satin Black)

The Jackson JS32 Warrior is designed for players who crave aggressive style and powerful sound. With its sharp body design and satin black finish, this guitar looks as bold as it sounds. Equipped with high-output humbuckers, it delivers crushing tones perfect for metal, hard rock, and shredding solos. The compound-radius fingerboard ensures smooth playability across the neck, whether you’re riffing low or flying through high-register leads. Its lightweight yet durable build makes it comfortable for stage use. Affordable yet performance-driven, the JS32 Warrior stands out as one of the best electric guitars for metal enthusiasts looking for speed, precision, and tone without overspending.

Specifications:

• Body: Basswood
• Neck: Maple, 24-fret rosewood fingerboard
• Pickups: Humbucker
• Bridge: Floyd Rose Licensed tremolo

Pros:

• Aggressive tone is ideal for metal and hard rock
• Fast neck for shredding and soloing
• Sleek, modern design

Cons:

• Heavier body may be less comfortable for long sessions

3-Ibanez RG421

The Ibanez RG421 is a staple in the best electric guitar under $500 category, offering incredible value for guitarists who prioritize speed and tone. Featuring a stunning blackberry sunburst finish, this guitar boasts a sleek double-cutaway design that enhances upper fret access. Its Quantum humbuckers provide clear articulation and a powerful punch, making it versatile for both heavy riffs and melodic solos. The Wizard III maple neck is thin and fast, perfect for shredders who demand precision. Known for reliability and smooth performance, the RG421 excels in rock, metal, and progressive styles. With its modern aesthetics and professional playability, it’s a go-to choice for intermediate to advanced guitarists.

Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Maple Wizard III
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 24 frets
• Pickups: Quantum humbuckers
• Bridge: Edge tremolo

Pros:

• Smooth neck ideal for fast playing and soloing
• Versatile pickups handle multiple genres
• Solid construction and reliable tuning stability

Cons:

• Not as warm in tone as single-coil guitars

4-Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II.

The Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 is one of the most popular entry-level guitars, offering the legendary Les Paul tone at an affordable price. Its sleek ebony finish gives it a professional look, while the lightweight body ensures comfortable playability. Powered by dual humbuckers, it delivers warm, rich tones ideal for rock, blues, and even jazz. The guitar’s simplicity makes it easy for beginners to handle, yet its sound quality is strong enough for live gigs or studio practice. As part of the best electric guitars under budget, the Special-II E1 provides a classic Les Paul feel with dependable performance, making it an excellent choice for students and casual players.

Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany, 22-fret rosewood fingerboard
• Pickups: Dual humbuckers
• Bridge: Tune-o-matic

Pros:

• Thick, warm tone perfect for rock and blues
• Classic Les Paul design
• Affordable entry into a legendary guitar style

Cons:

• Limited tonal versatility compared to higher-end Les Pauls

5-Epiphone SG Unique VE.

For players who love the iconic SG style, the Epiphone SG Special Satin E1 offers vintage aesthetics and strong performance at a budget-friendly price. The heritage cherry finish and worn satin look give it classic rock appeal. Its dual humbuckers provide a punchy, full-bodied tone suitable for rock, punk, and blues. The slim-taper neck makes it easy to play fast riffs and solos with comfort. Lightweight and balanced, it’s perfect for long jam sessions without fatigue. As one of the best affordable SG-style guitars, the Epiphone SG Special E1 brings timeless design and reliable sound, making it a great option for beginners and intermediate players seeking rock-ready tones.

Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany
• Neck: Mahogany, 22 frets, rosewood fingerboard
• Pickups: 2 humbuckers
• Bridge: Tune-o-matic

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable to play
• Aggressive rock tone with strong midrange
• Iconic SG look and feel

Cons:

• Can lack the sustain of a Les Paul-style body

6-Squier by Fender Bullet Stratocaster Beginner Hard Tail Electric Guitar

The Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT HSS is an affordable yet versatile guitar that’s perfect for beginners and intermediate players alike. Featuring a stunning brown sunburst finish and laurel fingerboard, it delivers both style and smooth playability. Its HSS pickup configuration combines a humbucker with two single-coils, offering a wide tonal range from warm rhythms to sharp leads. The hardtail bridge enhances tuning stability and sustain, making it a reliable choice for practice and performance. With its lightweight body, comfortable neck, and iconic Strat feel, this model is one of the best value electric guitars under $300, perfect for aspiring musicians who want Fender’s classic tone without the hefty price tag.

Specifications:

• Body: Poplar with Brown Sunburst finish
• Neck: Maple with Laurel fingerboard
• Pickup Configuration: HSS (Humbucker + 2 Single-Coils)
• Bridge: Hardtail (HT) design
• Frets: 21 medium jumbo

Pros:

• Affordable entry-level Strat with solid build
• HSS configuration offers versatile tone options
• Comfortable neck for beginners
• Stylish Brown Sunburst finish

Cons:

• Limited sustain due to the hardtail bridge

7-Fender Squier Requirement Telecaster.

 

The Squier Affinity Stratocaster is designed with beginners in mind, yet it offers features that even experienced players will appreciate. With a sleek black finish and rosewood fingerboard, it combines a professional look with easy playability. This model includes three single-coil pickups that deliver the iconic Stratocaster sound—bright, crisp, and versatile enough for rock, blues, and pop. The lightweight body and comfortable neck make long practice sessions enjoyable, while the reliable hardware ensures consistent tuning stability. Perfect for first-time players, the Affinity Stratocaster provides excellent quality at an entry-level price point, making it one of the most popular beginner electric guitars from Fender’s lineup.

Specifications:

• Body: Alder with glossy black finish
• Neck: Maple with Rosewood fingerboard
• Pickup Configuration: 3 Single-Coils
• Bridge: Vintage-style tremolo
• Frets: 21 medium jumbo

Pros:

• Authentic Stratocaster sound at a budget price
• Classic look with smooth Rosewood fingerboard
• Comfortable playability for practice or gigs
• Lightweight and beginner-friendly

Cons:

• Tremolo system may need frequent tuning adjustments

8-Yamaha Pacifica Collection PAC112V.

The Yamaha Pacifica PAC112V is widely praised for its build quality and tonal versatility, making it an excellent choice for students and intermediate players. Its old violin sunburst finish gives it a classic look, while the medium neck profile ensures comfortable playability across all styles. Equipped with a powerful humbucker and two single-coil pickups, it offers a broad tonal range for everything from clean jazz tones to high-gain rock riffs. The coil-splitting option adds extra flexibility, allowing players to switch between single-coil clarity and humbucker punch. Known for its durability, smooth fretwork, and consistent tuning stability, the PAC112V is a fantastic option for guitarists seeking professional-level features at a budget-friendly price.

Specifications:

• Body: Alder with Old Violin Sunburst finish
• Neck: Maple with Rosewood fingerboard
• Pickup Configuration: HSS (Alnico V pickups)
• Bridge: Vintage tremolo with block saddles
• Frets: 22 medium

Pros:

• Excellent tonal versatility with HSS setup
• Higher build quality compared to many entry-level guitars
• Smooth playability and reliable tuning stability
• Great value for beginners and intermediates

Cons:

• Slightly higher price compared to basic beginner models

9-Dean Custom Zone Solid Body Electric Guitar.

The Dean Custom Zone Electric Guitar is a bold statement piece for players who want both standout looks and powerful sound. Its fluorescent pink finish is eye-catching on stage, while the solid body and dual humbuckers deliver a full, punchy tone that’s perfect for rock and metal. With a fast-playing neck and smooth fretboard, this guitar is built for speed and comfort, making it ideal for shredders and energetic performers. The hardware is durable and reliable, ensuring tuning stability even during aggressive playing. While its style may not appeal to everyone, the Dean Custom Zone is a fantastic choice for guitarists who want to combine vibrant stage presence with strong sonic performance.

Specifications:

• Body: Basswood in bold fluorescent pink finish
• Neck: Maple with Rosewood fingerboard
• Pickup Configuration: Dual Humbuckers
• Bridge: Tune-o-matic with string-thru design
• Frets: 22 medium

Pros:

• Eye-catching design with vibrant finish
• Dual humbuckers deliver a powerful, punchy tone
• Sturdy build ideal for rock and metal
• Great sustain with string-thru body design

Cons:

• Bold color may not appeal to all players

10- Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

The Fender Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster in Olympic White offers the classic Strat style and tone at an accessible price point. Its laurel fingerboard provides smooth playability, while the lightweight body ensures comfort for long practice or performance sessions. Equipped with three single-coil pickups, it delivers that legendary Stratocaster sound—bright, versatile, and ideal for multiple genres. The sleek Olympic White finish gives it a timeless look that appeals to both beginners and experienced guitarists. Known for its reliability and ease of use, the Affinity Stratocaster remains one of the best entry-level options for players who want genuine Fender design and tone without overspending.

Specifications:

• Body: Alder with Olympic White finish
• Neck: Maple with Laurel fingerboard
• Pickup Configuration: 3 Single-Coils
• Bridge: 2-point tremolo system
• Frets: 21 medium jumbo

Pros:

• Classic Strat look with versatile tones
• Smooth playability and modern upgrades
• Lightweight and well-balanced for long sessions
• Affordable Fender-inspired sound

Cons:

• Pickups lack the clarity of higher-end models

What We Recommend and also Why.

Although thewytches.com can not be objective when it comes to picking a guitar in a price variety, or any other group, we try to suggest the best of the very best, and also the one that will fit most players.

This is why we advise the Squier by Fender Vintage Modified Stratocaster. It will certainly fit several categories and designs of having fun. It is affordable and also sounds great. In this rate array, you’ll barely discover any better. However, if you do go for it. Try it before buying it, folks.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best electric guitar under $300 is all about striking the perfect balance between affordability, playability, and sound quality. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a reliable first instrument or an experienced player seeking a budget-friendly backup guitar, today’s market offers excellent options that don’t compromise on tone or craftsmanship.

Brands like Squier, Ibanez, and Epiphone consistently deliver models that combine solid construction with versatile sound profiles, making them ideal for multiple music genres. By focusing on comfort, pickup quality, and durability, you can easily find a guitar in this price range that feels and sounds far beyond its cost. In short, you don’t need to spend a fortune to start rocking out — some of the best electric guitars under $300 prove that great music is well within reach.

Related:

• Best electric guitar under $400
• Best electric guitar under $500