I realize how a lot of people young and old who really want to start playing the guitar may be held back by their budget. The truth is, there are many cheap electric guitars that are really great quality and more than adequate for any new guitarist to start playing and build their skills. When looking for guitars for sale, a little bit of simple homework will be enough.
Cheap guitars don’t have to be built that way and many of the guitar companies have demonstrated that with their entry level models. The overseas manufacturers have gotten a lot better at manufacturing and assembly. Some still receive the parts and only do assembly but many will do both these days.
When starting out, I would recommend searching for cheap electric guitars with amps as there are many great package deals to be found and can get you playing the guitar right out of the box.
So to break down a few of the better cheap electric guitars in my opinion, let’s take a look at a few:
Epiphone G-310 ($250 est.)
This is Epiphone’s version of the classic Gibson SG. These are primarily Chinese made but have gotten a lot better in quality over the years. The design is identical to the SG with some less than fancy details. Available in the classic SG colors as well.
ESP EC-50 ($250 est.)
ESP makes a lot of very high end signature guitars but the EC-50 has the look and feel of the higher end cousins but at a very affordable price tag. Made in Indonesia with a bolt-on maple neck and dual humbuckers. This series is modeled after the Gibson Les Paul.
Ibanez GRGA32 ($250 est.)
This one is great if you like to play heavier styles of music. The pickups are higher output, which really lends well to playing distortion style of music. Again like the previous two guitars, this one does not have the fancy finishings and hardware but has great value and quality.
These are all very good cheap beginner electric guitars and will be more than suitable for any new guitarist that just wants to play and learn. If it’s used electric guitars you’re after in this price range, you will have to do some searching on eBay or other second hand sites online. There is always a risk of buying fakes or damaged guitars in those types of markets though.
Going any cheaper than the price of these three guitars will more than likely turn up the more junky guitars and after playing them for a brief period it would be very noticeable. Cheap electric guitars are not necessarily junk; the good ones are just simplified for the entry level guitarist.