Kevin JohnsonThe widespread adoption of electricity in the 1930s catalyzed several inventions, including electric guitars. According to the Music Trades Association, electric guitars account for 58% of all sales in the US. You’ll need an instrument from the best electric guitar brand to enhance your playing skills or experience. [1]
Statistics indicate that Gibson, Fender, Ibanez, Yamaha, and Epiphone are the top-selling guitar brands. However, just because something is popular doesn’t make it the best option for you. Every electric guitar brand has strengths and weaknesses. The right instrument for you should match your skill level and playing style. But which are the best electric guitar brands?
Here is a comprehensive analysis of the 15 best electric guitar brands:
1. Fender
Fender is an iconic name in the musical instrument market. The brand offers electric and acoustic guitars, basses, amplifiers, and public address equipment. However, Fender is known for its solid-body electric guitars like the Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster. You can buy Fender guitars and parts on Amazon.
Image source: Fender
Fender has served the music industry since 1946. The Fender Stratocaster has retained its popularity for over 70 years. In Jul 2024, the company expanded the Squier Affinity Series and launched a new limited edition California Vintage Antigua acoustics range and accessories. [2]
Pros: Fender is one of the world’s most recognized electric guitar brands. Its electric guitars cater to players across genres, from rock to country and blues. They have robust construction to withstand rough live performances, practice runs, and studio recordings. Music fans can find Fender’s signature electric guitar models designed by their favorite artists.
Cons: Fender’s Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster models are innovative but pricey. Some Telecaster guitars have balance issues, increasing the risk of neck-dive.
Price Range: $500-$3,000
2. Gibson/Epiphone
Gibson is the leading American guitar brand with a 34% market share. This musical instrument manufacturer was founded in 1902 by Orville Gibson. It offers acoustic and electric guitars in several models, including the Les Paul, SG, and ES. Players can find affordable Gibson guitar versions under Epiphone, a standalone brand owned by Gibson. You can buy Gibson guitar parts on Amazon.
Image source: Gibson
The Les Paul is Gibson’s most iconic guitar model. Gibson extended the Les Paul lineup with the new Custom Color Series in Aug 2023. You can buy classic Les Paul Standard 50s and 60s models with eye-catching custom finishes. [3]
Pros: Gibson has over 120 years of guitar manufacturing experience. Its electric guitars cater to all playing styles and genres. You can use the Les Paul to play blues or the Gibson SG for rock ‘n’ roll.
Cons: Gibson is a high-end electric guitar brand. Its instruments are pricey. However, you get affordable Gibson guitars under its sister brand, Epiphone.
Price Range: $1,500-$10,000
3. Charvel
Charvel is a guitar manufacturer founded in the 1970s by Wayne Charvel. It is the go-to electric guitar brand for discerning players seeking high-performance tone machines. In Jan 2024, Charvel unveiled its 2024 Pro-Mod models for committed shredders. The list includes the alder-bodied Pro-Mod DK24 HH 2PT CM in Bubblegum Pink with a Malibu Sunset gradient finish. You can buy this 2024 Charvel Pro-Mod guitar for $1,199. [4]
Image source: Charvel
Pros: Charvel offers high-performance electric guitars for discerning shredders.
Cons: Charvel specializes in electric guitars and doesn’t offer acoustic models. Its latest and top-rated variants are pricey. For example, the 2024 Pro-Mod Relic San Dimas Style 1 sells for $1,599.
Price Range: $500-$2500
4. ESP (Electric Sound Products)
ESP is a Japanese guitar manufacturer founded in 1975 and based in Tokyo and Los Angeles. The brand specializes in electric guitars and basses for metal and heavier styles. In Jan 2024, ESP unveiled its new Signature Series with several limited-edition models. The brand created the 2024 LTD GH SV-200 for Gary Holt, one of the world’s most influential thrash metal players. [5]
Image source: ESP Guitars
Pros: ESP is one of the best guitar brands for metal and heavier styles. Iconic shredders like James Hetfield, Dave Mustaine, Mille Petrozza, Alexi Laiho, Bill Kelliher, George Lynch, and Gary Holt have signature models with ESP.
Cons: ESP primarily caters to metal and heavy shredders.
Price Range: $300-$2,800
5. Jackson Guitars
Jackson started as a small guitar repair shop in the 1970s in Southern California. By the mid-80s, the brand had established itself as a leading guitar manufacturer. Jackson’s guitar models include the Soloist, Rhoads, and Dinky. The Soloist is perfect for shredders seeking a sleek guitar with a fast neck and versatile tonal options. In Jan 2024, Jackson unveiled four Concept Series shred guitars for metal players. You can buy the Concept Series Rhoads, Soloist, King Kelly, and eight-string Dinky for $1,899-$2,199. [6]
Image source: Jackson Guitars
Pros: Jackson offers high-quality guitars with world-class craftsmanship, unique sound, and sleek designs. These durable instruments are versatile, catering to various music genres.
Cons: Jackson guitars are more expensive than most alternatives. Some people complain about Jackson’s range of tones and sounds because they don’t suit their playing styles.
Price Range: $500-$3,200
6. Gretsch
Gretsch is a musical instrument manufacturer founded in 1883 in Brooklyn, New York. The brand is popular among rockabilly, country, and jazz guitarists, singers, and fans. Top-selling Gretsch models include the G6120, White Falcon, and Electromatic. In Jan 2024, Gretsch released a new limited-edition Pristine Electromatic series. The lineup has the Pristine LTD Jet Single-Cut for $749 and the Pristine Center Block Double-Cut for $899. You can buy Gretsch guitars on Amazon. [7]
Image source: Gretsch Guitars
Pros: Gretsch offers guitars with unique and distinctive sounds. The brand has been crafting high-quality musical instruments for over 140 years. Most of its guitars are affordable.
Cons: Gretsch’s guitars are perfect for genres with a vintage twist. They may not match your playing style if your masterpiece isn’t jazz, country, or rockabilly.
Price Range: $200-$900
7. Schecter Guitars
Schecter started as a guitar replacement parts manufacturer in 1976. The brand expanded into an end-to-end musical instrument producer offering electric and acoustic guitars, amplifiers, basses, and effects units. In Apr 2024, Schecter collaborated with artists Nadja Peulen and Meegs Rascon to design the new Coal Chamber Signature models. These electric guitars deliver the ultimate expression of metal mastery. [8]
Image source: Schecter
Pros: Schecter offers electric guitars with power and precision, like the Hellraiser, C-1, and Apocalypse. It is the go-to electric guitar brand for heavy metal and hard rock players.
Cons: Schecter mass-produces its guitars through its in-house label and subsidiaries. This one-fits-all approach impedes customization.
Price Range: $449-$3,499
8. Ernie Ball Music Man
Ernie Ball Music Man is a family-owned instrument manufacturer based in San Luis Obispo, California. It was founded in 1974 as Music Man and sold to Ernie Ball in 1984. This brand helped shape the electric guitar and bass scene. In Jun 2024, Ernie Ball Music Man unveiled five new finishes – Blue Silk, Gravity Green, Black Frosting, Her Majesty’s Request, and Amaranth. You can buy the John Petrucci Majesty signature guitars starting at $3,999. [9]
Image source: Ernie Ball Music Man
Pros: Ernie Ball Music Man is the best electric guitar brand for players seeking effortless playability and unique styles. It has signature models with iconic artists.
Cons: Music Man electric guitars are pricey. For example, the 2024 signature models with new finishes will cost you at least $3,999.99. The brand targets pros, not beginners.
Price Range: $500-$7,500
9. Kramer Guitars
Kramer is an American electric guitar manufacturer and part of the Gibson Family of Brands. The company revolutionized the 1970s and 1980s music scene with its aluminum-necked and wooden-necked electric guitars and basses. In Nov 2023, Kramer launched a new Made in Japan Collection to celebrate its contribution to music history. The set includes the 1983 Baretta Reissue for $2,199. [10]
Image source: Kramer Guitars
Pros: Kramer is an iconic electric guitar brand endorsed by legendary bands, including Bon Jovi and Judas Priest.
Cons: Kramer currently focuses on reissuing its legacy guitars, which are built in Indonesia. The new reissues don’t match the capabilities of the original Kramer guitars.
Price Range: $230-$2,199
10. Rickenbacker
Rickenbacker manufactured the world’s first electric guitar in 1932. The brand produces hollow-body and solid-body electric guitars and basses by hand in its Santa Ana, California, factory. Every Rickenbacker guitar begins in the wood shop with high-tech CNC machines. Then, the components are hand-assembled and polished with a proprietary finish system.
Image source: Rickenbacker Guitars
Pros: Rickenbacker offers handcrafted electric guitars. Each Rickenbacker guitar is unique and attention-grabbing.
Cons: Rickenbacker’s CNC machining and hand assembly are costly and labor intensive, increasing its electric guitars’ prices.
Price Range: $1,900-$3,900
11. B.C. Rich
B.C. Rich is a guitar brand famous for its Warlock model. Its outlandish guitar designs look more like medieval weapons than instruments. However, the brand encountered financial challenges in recent years. In 2023, B.C. Rich failed to fulfill a $120k commissioned order for 400 Stranger Things Warlock guitars. This deal nearly bankrupted Iconic Guitars. [11]
Image source: B.C. Guitars
Pros: B.C. Rich’s guitars have thin necks for fast playing and produce thick and loud tones. These features appeal to metal guitarists and bands. The brand offers affordable entry-level guitars for around $300.
Cons: B.C. Rich’s guitars have irregular shapes, steepening the learning curve. You’ll need more time to get used to a B.C. Rich electric guitar.
Price Range: $300-$1,500
12. Cort Guitars
Cort is a premium electric guitar brand offering high-quality instruments at accessible prices. Its top-selling models include the Cort X, Cort Earth, and Artisan Series. In Jul 2024, Cort released the new Artisan C4/C5 Deluxe bass guitars. You can buy the Artisan C4 Deluxe for $449 or C5 Deluxe for $499. [12]
Image source: Cort Guitars
Pros: Cort offers reliable, affordable premium electric guitars and basses. The brand caters to players with different styles and skill levels. You can buy Cort X electric guitars for rock and metal or Cort Earth acoustics for country and blues.
Cons: Cort electric guitars may not be the best option for beginners. You can start with Cort acoustic guitars to master the basics before upgrading to the Cort X Series.
Price Range: $300-$900
13. Strandberg
Strandberg is a Swedish electric guitar brand catering to headless fanatics. Legends like Ben Kenney, Randy McStine, and Per Nilsson play Strandberg electric guitars and basses. In Jan 2024, Strandberg unveiled the Boden Essential at NAMM 2024. This Indonesia-made guitar has a Strandberg signature EndurNeck profile and a solid Meranti body. You can buy the Strandberg Boden Essential for $999. [13]
Image source: Strandberg Guitars
Pros: Strandberg is the go-to brand for high-performance headless guitars. Its instruments are innovative, attention-grabbing, and lightweight. For example, the Strandberg Boden Essential weighs around 2.15 kg (4.7 lbs).
Cons: Strandberg is a high-end brand offering expensive headless guitars. At $999, the Boden Essential is the most affordable Strandberg guitar range.
Price Range: $999-$9,000
14. SubZero
SubZero is a British music instrument brand founded in 2003. The company offers electric guitars, amps, woofers, and other music systems. Its electric guitar models include the Rogue VI and Paradigm. SubZero sells its guitars and musical instruments on Amazon.
Image source: SubZero Amazon Store
Pros: SubZero guitars are high-quality and affordable. They are perfect for beginners. The SubZero Rogue VI has been featured in many songs since the 1960s, including heavy rock, metal, classic pop, indie, and pop punk.
Cons: SubZero offers limited electric guitar options.
Price Range: $200-$500
15. SX Guitars
SX is an electric guitar brand founded in 1998. However, its history began in the early 1960s when guitar manufacturing migrated from the US to Taiwan. The founders established Team International Music in the 1990s to distribute guitars from other brands. They closed the distribution business in Taiwan and launched Essex (SX) to make original in-house guitars. SX offers affordable electric guitars. [14]
Image source: SX Guitars
Pros: SX offers high-quality and affordable electric guitars. Its instruments cost less than $1000.
Cons: SX has limited variety. It offers the Ash, Alder, Vintage, Pirate, Jazz, EF, EH, and EE series with 1-3 electric guitar models.
Price Range: $250-$1,000
References & more information
- Welter, L. (2024, Jan 22). Guitar Sales Statistics (US National Survey 2024). Piano Dreamers
- Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (2024, Jul 1). Fender unveils new product innovations for summer 2024 across electrics, acoustics, and accessories. Fender.com
- Maxwell, J. (2023, Aug 30). Gibson gives the Les Paul Standard a 2023 makeover with vibrant finishes that are anything but sunburst. Guitar World
- Horsley, J. (2024, Jan 19). Charvel raises the bar for its shredder-spec Pro-Mod series. Music Radar
- ESP (2024, Jan 31). ESP Unveiled New Guitars and Basses at NAMM 2024. Premier Guitar
- Horsley, J. (2024, Jan 22). Jackson launches four Concept Series shred machines for metal players. Yahoo
- Koe, C. (2024, Jan 22). Gretsch unveils limited-edition Pristine Electromatic models with “power, style, and performance.” Guitar.com
- Schecter Guitars (2024, Apr 22). Introducing the new Coal Chamber Signature models. SchecterGuitars.com
- Kennelty, G. (2024, Jun 13). Ernie Ball Music Man unveils their 2024 Majesty Models. Gear Gods
- Kalu, A. (2023, Nov 11). Kramer is launching a New Made in Japan Collection to celebrate the 1983 Baretta. Ultimate Guitar
- Guitar Bomb Staff (2024, Jan 25). Iconic Guitars announces layoffs, due in part to B.C. Rich failed to purchase an order for the limited-edition Stranger Things Warlock. Guitar Bomb
- Bass Musician Writer (2024, Jul 2). Cort introduces the new Artisan C4/C5 Deluxe bass guitars. Bass Musician Magazine
- Kalu, A. (2024, Jan 28). Strandberg Debuts Most Affordable Guitar Model to Date. Ultimate Guitar
- SX Guitars (2022, Jun 22). SX Guitars: Our History. SX-Guitars.com
- Featured Image by Simon Weisser
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