🥇 Best Electric Guitar Under 500 Dollars

Best electric guitar under 500. Some of the most thrilling instruments in the world to play are electric guitars. The name itself embodies the excitement: electrifying. In addition to having the ability to swing emotions with rhythm and blues, these incredible instruments have the drive and zeal to rock a full stadium. To be able to provide such lovely power to the world, a lot of individuals want to learn how to play the electric guitar.

Electric guitars may cost thousands of dollars. We were aware that many individuals were deterred from even contemplating playing the electric guitar by the high expense. These days, having $500 in your pocket allows you to pick from a vast array of high-quality electric guitars, regardless of your preferences or goals, thanks to a highly competitive market and less expensive manufacturing techniques. These are our selections of the top electric guitars under $500 if you’re looking for a guitar on a tight budget.

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Top 10 Best Electric Guitar Under 500 Dollars

1- Epiphone Les Paul SL

The Epiphone ENOLVSCH1 Les Paul SL is a budget-friendly electric guitar that delivers classic rock tones with vintage appeal. Featuring a lightweight poplar body, bolt-on mahogany neck, and dual ceramic single-coil pickups, this model provides a bright and punchy sound ideal for beginners or casual players. The vintage sunburst finish gives it a timeless look that stands out on stage. Despite its affordable price, the guitar offers reliable playability and solid hardware for consistent performance. If you’re looking for an entry-level instrument with the legendary Les Paul styling and tone, this Epiphone SL is an excellent choice for both practice and live sessions.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Poplar with Vintage Sunburst finish
• Neck: Mahogany, 1960s SlimTaper D profile
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
• Pickups: Epiphone ceramic single coils
• Bridge: Wraparound compensated bridge

Pros:

• Lightweight and comfortable for beginners
• Classic Les Paul aesthetics at a budget price
• Clear tone suitable for blues and classic rock

Cons:

• Limited tonal variety compared to higher-end models

2- Gretsch G5220 Electromatic Jet BT Single-Cut

The Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster is a vintage-inspired electric guitar that captures the essence of Fender’s golden era. Built with a solid pine body, it features three Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups that deliver iconic Strat tones—bright, crisp, and full of character. The maple fingerboard and C-shaped neck enhance playability, making it comfortable for both rhythm and lead guitarists. Finished in an eye-catching 2-color sunburst, this model combines retro aesthetics with modern reliability. Backed by a 2-year warranty, it’s perfect for players seeking an authentic Strat sound without the high Fender price tag. A strong choice for blues, rock, and surf guitar enthusiasts.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Pine with gloss finish
• Neck: Maple, “C”-shaped profile
• Fingerboard: Maple, 21 narrow-tall frets
• Pickups: Fender-designed alnico single coils
• Bridge: Vintage-style synchronized tremolo

Pros:

• Authentic Strat tones with vintage flair
• Smooth maple neck ensures comfortable playability
• Versatile sound across blues, rock, and funk

Cons:

• Single-coil pickups may produce hum at high gain

3- Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT Electric Guitar

The Epiphone Les Paul Studio E1 is a sleek, affordable take on the iconic Les Paul design, perfect for players of all levels. With a mahogany body, carved top, and slim-taper neck, it delivers both comfort and sustain. The dual Epiphone humbuckers provide rich, warm tones that excel in rock, metal, and blues, while the tune-o-matic bridge ensures tuning stability. Its bold ebony finish adds a professional, stage-ready look. Known for its impressive build quality at a budget-friendly price, this Studio E1 is an excellent choice for beginners wanting their first serious guitar or experienced musicians needing a reliable backup.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany with carved top
• Neck: Mahogany, SlimTaper profile
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
• Pickups: Dual Epiphone humbuckers
• Hardware: Tune-O-Matic bridge

Pros:

• Warm, punchy humbucker tones perfect for rock
• Sleek ebony finish with minimalistic style
• Reliable sustain thanks to solid construction

Cons:

• Slightly heavier than strat-style guitars

4- Ibanez Steve Vai JEMJRSP – Yellow

The Ibanez JEMJR Steve Vai signature guitar is built for speed, precision, and showmanship. Modeled after Vai’s legendary JEM series, it features a mahogany body, Wizard III neck, and 24 jumbo frets for lightning-fast playability. Its HSH pickup configuration offers versatile tones, from heavy riffs to crystal-clear solos. The iconic “monkey grip” cutout and white finish make it visually striking, while the double-locking tremolo ensures dive bombs and pitch effects stay perfectly in tune. Designed for shredders and progressive rock guitarists, the JEMJR balances professional performance with affordability, making it an excellent gateway into signature-level instruments.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany with white gloss finish
• Neck: Maple Wizard III, 24 frets
• Fingerboard: Jatoba with Tree of Life inlay
• Pickups: Quantum HSH configuration
• Bridge: Double-locking tremolo system

Pros:

• Wide tonal range for rock, shred, and metal
• Fast neck ideal for technical players
• Eye-catching Steve Vai signature design

Cons:

• Floating tremolo requires setup and maintenance

5-Yamaha Pacifica Series PAC112V

The Yamaha Pacifica PAC112V is widely regarded as one of the best beginner-to-intermediate guitars for versatility and value. With a solid alder body, maple neck, and rosewood fingerboard, it offers a comfortable feel and balanced tone. The HSS pickup configuration (humbucker + two single-coils) provides a wide range of sounds, from crunchy rock to smooth blues and sparkling cleans. A vintage-style tremolo system adds expressive flexibility, while the black finish gives it a modern, professional look. Known for its durability and consistent quality, the PAC112V is ideal for students, hobbyists, or gigging players who want reliability at a reasonable price.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Alder with black finish
• Neck: Maple bolt-on, smooth satin finish
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
• Pickups: HSS configuration with Alnico V
• Bridge: Vintage-style tremolo with block saddles

Pros:

• Excellent versatility from the HSS pickup layout
• Smooth playability, great for beginners and intermediates
• Durable build quality with reliable Yamaha craftsmanship

Cons:

• Stock pickups may lack character for advanced players

6- Squier by Fender Contemporary Active Stratocaster Electric Guitar

The Fender Squier Contemporary Active Stratocaster HH is a sleek and modern guitar designed for rock and metal players. Featuring dual humbuckers with active electronics, it delivers powerful tones with excellent clarity and punch. The rosewood fingerboard provides smooth playability, while the Olympic White finish gives it a stylish edge on stage. Lightweight yet durable, it’s built for fast riffs and versatile sound shaping. Perfect for beginners upgrading or intermediate guitarists seeking professional quality at an affordable price.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Poplar with gloss finish
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 12″ radius
• Pickups: Dual Squier Active Humbuckers
• Hardware: Black chrome, fixed bridge

Pros:

• Active humbuckers deliver powerful, modern rock tones
• Sleek Olympic White finish with stylish black hardware
• Smooth playability, ideal for fast solos
• Affordable Fender quality under $500

Cons:

• Active pickups require a battery

7- ESP LTD EC-256FM Electric Guitar

The ESP LTD EC-256FM combines eye-catching design with outstanding performance. Its flame maple top and cobalt blue finish make it stand out visually, while the mahogany body produces rich, warm tones. The dual humbuckers provide a versatile sound, from clean melodies to heavy riffs. With its thin-U neck profile, the EC-256FM is comfortable for both rhythm and lead players. It’s an excellent mid-range electric guitar for rock, blues, and metal musicians who want style, tone, and affordability in one package.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany with flame maple top
• Neck: Set-neck construction
• Pickups: ESP Designed LH-150 humbuckers
• Finish: Gloss cobalt blue

Pros:

• Rich sustains from mahogany body and set-neck design
• Stunning cobalt blue flame maple top adds premium aesthetics
• Versatile humbuckers suit rock, blues, and metal
• Excellent balance of tone and comfort

Cons:

• Slightly heavier compared to other models

8- Silvertone Classic 1478 BK Electric Guitar, Gloss black

This 6-String Solid-Body Electric Guitar in Gloss Black is a reliable choice for players seeking a stylish yet budget-friendly instrument. Its solid-body construction ensures durability and sustain, while the standard pickup configuration makes it suitable for a variety of genres. The glossy black finish gives it a classic, stage-ready look that appeals to both beginners and casual players. Comfortable neck design and smooth fretwork enhance playability, making it a practical option for learning or practicing. A great value guitar for anyone starting their musical journey.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Solid basswood
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 22 frets
• Pickups: Dual humbuckers
• Hardware: Standard chrome tuners and bridge

Pros:

• Budget-friendly option under $500
• Classic gloss black finish with solid body construction
• Comfortable neck profile for beginners
• Easy to upgrade pickups or hardware

Cons:

• Basic factory setup may require adjustment

9- Schecter Omen Extreme-6 Electric Guitar (Black Cherry)

The Schecter Omen Extreme-6 is a powerhouse designed for heavy rock and metal guitarists. With its mahogany body, quilted maple top, and stunning Black Cherry finish, it delivers both visual appeal and aggressive tone. Dual Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers ensure powerful sound with clear articulation for solos and chunky riffs. The rosewood fingerboard and thin C-shaped neck make playing fast passages effortless. Combining style, comfort, and sound versatility, the Omen Extreme-6 is an ideal upgrade for intermediate to advanced players.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Mahogany with quilted maple top
• Fingerboard: Rosewood, 24 jumbo frets
• Pickups: Schecter Diamond Plus humbuckers
• Bridge: Tune-O-Matic with string-thru body

Pros:

• An aggressive tone is perfect for metal and hard rock
• Eye-catching Black Cherry finish with quilted maple design
• Excellent sustain thanks to string-thru body construction
• Thin neck ideal for fast playing styles

Cons:

• A heavier body may not suit all players

10- ESP LTD KH-202 Signature Series Kirk Hammett Electric Guitar, Black

The ESP LTD KH-202 is the signature model of Metallica’s legendary guitarist Kirk Hammett, built for shredders who love speed and precision. Its basswood body with a sleek black finish looks aggressive, while the extra-jumbo frets and thin U-shaped neck provide ultimate playability. Equipped with ESP-designed pickups, it produces crushing metal tones perfect for heavy riffs and searing solos. The Floyd Rose tremolo system adds dive-bombing flexibility for stage performance. A must-have for Metallica fans and aspiring metal guitarists.

Technical Specifications:

• Body: Basswood
• Fingerboard: Roasted Jatoba, 24 extra-jumbo frets
• Pickups: ESP Designed LH-301 humbuckers
• Features: Floyd Rose Special tremolo system

Pros:

• Signature Kirk Hammett design for Metallica fans
• 24 frets allow an extended soloing range
• Floyd Rose tremolo offers dive-bombs and pitch effects
• Excellent metal tones under $500

Cons:

• Floyd Rose setup can be complex for beginners

Where to Buy Your Electric Guitar under $500?

After reading some reviews on this article, go and test them out in the guitar store, if possible. However, unless it’s a huge store, you may not get to see everything you want. So reading in-depth reviews and watching videos is a good way to learn about and hear your potential new instrument in action.

Buying a used guitar can work out much cheaper, but it comes with some potential pitfalls. To avoid buying something that will fail as soon as you get it home, make sure you try it out before parting with your cash. Online stores like Amazon usually give you better prices. Plus, they rarely run out of stock.

Conclusion

Electric guitars have been around for over 100 years, and they are still an important instrument in many people’s lives. They come in all shapes and sizes, so you can find the one that is just right for your needs. It seems like there are electric guitars out now with a price point of $500 or less! There are also some great tips on how to buy the best guitar under $500 based on our research at Guitar Center. You should read this guide before making any decisions about which electric guitar to purchase. If you’re looking for help deciding what type of electric guitar would be good for you, we’ve got a buyer’s guide below as well!

There are hundreds of other guitars that may suit you better. Whether you’re spending $100 or $2000 on an electric guitar, you’ll want to make an informed decision. The guitars featured on this list are all excellent, and our top choices for electric guitar are under $500. Read as many reviews as you can, watch all the videos, and try out as many guitars as possible. If you want to know more information, click here: thewytches.com.

See more:

• The Best Acoustic Guitar under $500
• BEST ELECTRIC GUITAR UNDER $1000