Kevin JohnsonCan you imagine what the music scene would be like without guitars? These instruments are the cornerstone of music and countless musical journeys. Look for the perfect guitar that enhances your playing skills and fulfills your needs.
According to the National Association of Music Merchants, Gibson is the most popular guitar brand, with a 34% market share. Fender comes in second with 30%, followed by Ibanez at 12% and Yamaha at 7%. But which is the best guitar brand for your skill level, budget, musical career, and playing style? [1]
Here is an in-depth analysis of the 15 best guitar brands:
1. Gibson
Gibson is an American musical instrument manufacturer founded in 1902 by Orville Gibson. This Nashville-based brand offers world-class guitars and professional audio equipment. Its iconic models include the Les Paul, SG, and ES Series. In 1957, Gibson acquired Epiphone and integrated it into its portfolio. Gibson offers affordable options, like Inspired by Gibson, through the Epiphone brand. You can buy Gibson guitar parts on Amazon.
Image source: Gibson
Gibson is synonymous with guitars. These instruments have served many legends and helped shape the music landscape. In Aug 2023, Gibson extended the Les Paul lineup with the new Custom Color Series. The Custom Color Series enhanced classic Les Paul Standard 50s and Les Paul Standard 60s models with eye-catching finishes. [2]
Pros: Gibson has been producing high-quality guitars for over 120 years. The brand offers guitars for all players and genres, from rock to blues, rock ‘n’ roll, and heavy metal.
Cons: Gibson is a high-end guitar brand and costs more than other options. However, you get affordable Gibson guitars under its sister brand, Epiphone.
Price Range: $1,500-$50,000
2. Fender Guitars
Fender is a musical instrument company offering acoustic guitars, bass amplifiers, and public address equipment. The brand is known for its solid-body electric guitars. Notable Fender models include the Stratocaster, Telecaster, and Jazzmaster. These guitars have disrupted the music industry since 1946. You can buy Fender guitars and parts on Amazon.
Image source: Fender
Fender is one of the world’s most recognized electric guitar brands. 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. [3]
Pros: Fender guitars can withstand rough live performances and studio recordings thanks to their robust construction and reliability. Its Stratocaster and Telecaster models are versatile and cater to musicians across genres, from rock to country and blues. The brand collaborates with renowned artists to create signature guitars.
Cons: Although Fender’s Stratocaster and Telecaster models are innovative, they have some drawbacks. A traditional Stratocaster has a relatively weak bridge pickup. Some Telecaster guitars have balance issues, increasing the risk of neck-dive.
Price Range: $500-$3,000
3. Ibanez
Ibanez is a Japanese guitar brand founded in 1957 and owned by Hoshino Gakki. The brand offers electric, bass, and acoustic guitars, effects and pedals, amps, and accessories like tuners, straps, and picks. Versatility and playability set Ibanez apart from competitors. Ibanez caters to various musical genres and player preferences. You can buy Ibanez guitars on Amazon.
Ibanez guitar series includes the RG, S Premium, JEM, AZ, and Artcore. The Ibanez RG is the go-to option for rock and metal, while the Artcore is perfect for jazz, blues, and rock players. In Jan 2024, Ibanez unveiled its 2024 RG and S electric guitars. Upgraded models include the RG Standard, RG GIO, and S Premium, focusing on aesthetics and technical adjustments. [4]
Pros: Ibanez’s versatile guitars cater to all genres and players. Each model has a thin neck and lightweight body, enhancing playability. The brand offers affordable guitars.
Cons: Affordable Ibanez guitars have issues, such as fret buzz, rough fret edges, tuning stability problems, and finish imperfections.
Price Range: $200-$1,000
4. Yamaha Guitars
Yamaha offers guitars, pianos, ukuleles, keyboards, and drum kits. The company started producing guitars in 1966. Its Pacifica guitar series is known for its playability and versatility. In Jan 2024, Yamaha unveiled four high-end versions of its Pacifica guitar crafted in Japan by master luthiers. The expanded lineup now includes the Professional PACP12 and PACP12M for $2199 and the Standard Plus PACS+12 and PACS+12M for $1349. [5]
Image source: Yamaha
Pros: Yamaha offers reliable and versatile musical instruments. The Yamaha Pacifica is one of the best low-budget guitars for beginners.
Cons: Yamaha offers limited customization options because its guitars are mass-produced.
Price Range: $200-$3,000
5. PRS Guitars
Paul Reed Smith (PRS) is an American guitar and amplifier manufacturer founded in 1985. The Maryland-based brand offers electric and acoustic guitars, basses, amps, and accessories. Its guitar models fall into five categories: Core, Bolt-On, S2, SE, and Private Stock. In Jan 2024, PRS unveiled its 2024 Core lineup. The new Core Studio model has a stunning Faded Whale Blue finish, a patented PRS III tremolo system, and a buttery smooth neck. You can buy this high-end guitar for $4680. [6]
Image source: PRS Guitars
Pros: PRS is known for its high-end craftsmanship and artistic custom finishes. The brand uses modern manufacturing techniques to create guitars that perfectly balance form and function.
Cons: PRS Core models are pricey. However, you can find quality PRS SE electric guitars under $1,000.
Price Range: $500-$4,680
6. Taylor Guitars
Taylor is an acoustic guitar innovator founded in 1974. The brand produces high-quality six-string guitars using unconventional approaches that blend innovative designs with modern tech. In Jan 2024, Taylor released its 50th Anniversary Limited Edition series to celebrate 50 years in the business. This collection featured commemorative versions of Taylor’s iconic models like the 814ce LTD for $4,499, 314ce LTD for $2,799, and AD14ce-SB for $1,999. [7]
Image source: Taylor
Pros: Taylor offers versatile acoustic guitars that deliver exceptional tone and playability. The brand is synonymous with excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation.
Cons: Taylor doesn’t cater to players seeking electric guitars. Its stringed acoustics can be pricey. For example, the 2024 commemorative models cost between $1,999 and $4,499.
Price Range: $450-$5,000
7. Martin
Martin (C.F. Martin & Company) is a guitar manufacturer established in 1833. It is one of the oldest family-owned American brands and an influential player in the music industry. Iconic Martin guitars include the D-18, D-28, HD-35, D-42, D-50, OM-42, and 0-18.
Image source: Martin Guitar
Martin introduced five new models and returned the hallowed D-42 Bitcoin in Jan 2024. The D-50 CFM IV 50th Anniversary is the most expensive guitar in the lineup. Only 50 units of the D-50 were made to commemorate the brand’s Chris Martin IV, launched 50 years ago. You’ll need around $50,000 to own the new D-50 CFM IV guitar. [8]
Pros: Martin has a rich heritage and legacy stretching back 190 years. Its acoustic guitars are collectors’ treasures. They are known for their retro tone with striking low-end or articulate top-end.
Cons: Although Martin offers affordable options, its top-rated guitars are expensive. Some limited-edition models cost over $10k.
Price Range: $400-$50,000
8. Washburn Guitars
Washburn is an American musical instrument manufacturer and importer. The brand imports and makes guitars, mandolins, and banjos. Since 1883, Washburn has provided high-quality string instruments to American players and music fans. Its collection includes signature guitars developed in collaboration with iconic guitarists. For example, Washburn partnered with Nuno Bettencourt to create the Nele Deluxe and Nele Standard models. [9]
Image source: Washburn Guitars
Pros: Washburn has offered high-quality string instruments for over 140 years. The brand collaborates with iconic guitarists, like Nuno Bettencourt, to create signature models.
Cons: Washburn’s signature electric guitars are expensive.
Price Range: $500-$3,200
9. Ovation Guitars
Ovation is a guitar brand founded by Charles Kaman over 50 years ago. Kaman leveraged his aerospace experience to merge an electric and acoustic guitar into one instrument. His electro-acoustic Ovation guitars combine a fibre-plastic composite (Lyrachord) with a parabolic body shape (Roundback) and piezo-electric pickup. Soloists can use Ovation guitars to perform at open-air events without sacrificing sound quality. You can buy Ovation guitars on Amazon.
Image source: Ovation Guitars
Pros: Ovation electro-acoustic guitars offer the capabilities of electrics and acoustics in one instrument. Their unique designs can help you stand out in crowded venues or on stage.
Cons: Ovation offers limited variety. The brand doesn’t fulfill the needs of all guitarists.
Price Range: $400-$5,400
10. Godin Guitars
Godin is a Canadian guitar brand founded in 1987 by Robert Godin. This Quebec-based company is one of the world’s largest acoustic guitar manufacturers. Its new models include the Multiac Mundial, Session T-Pro, Stadium Pro, and A-Series. In Nov 2023, Godin selected JHS as its UK and Ireland guitar distributor. British players can rely on JHS to access Godin’s steel and nylon strung acoustics and electric guitars. [10]
Image source: Godin Guitars
Pros: Godin offers acoustic-electric guitars for different skill levels, music styles, and price points. It is one of the best acoustic guitar brands under $1,000.
Cons: Godin’s electric guitars may not meet the needs of extreme shredders and heavy metal players.
Price Range: $300-$900
11. Dean
Dean was founded in 1976 by Dean Zelinsky and acquired by Armadillo Enterprise in 1997. The company manufactures and imports musical instruments and accessories. This approach delivers high-quality guitars from Dean and other brands globally to the American market.
Image source: Dean Guitars
Pros: Dean offers everything musical players need under one roof. You can access unique and affordable guitars from Dean’s in-house series and upcoming brands globally.
Cons: Dean’s lack of specialization can undermine quality. Offering different import guitars from unknown brands under one roof can complicate the selection process for beginners.
Price Range: $200-$5,500
12. Guild Guitars
Guild is a Córdoba Music guitar brand founded in 1952. The famed Guild D-40C was the world’s first dreadnought with a cutaway. Its top-selling guitar series include the D-55, F-512, Starfire, and Polara. In Jan 2024, the brand expanded its Polara series with new color options. You can buy the Guild Polara guitar in blue steel, phantom green, or voltage yellow for €599. [11]
Image source: Guild Guitars
Pros: Guild is perfect for singer-songwriters seeking acoustic guitars with elegant design, warm and bluesy tones, and harmonically rich sounds. The brand’s D-55, Starfire, F-512, and Polara series cater to different genres, ensuring there is something for every player.
Cons: Many players view Guild as a traditional brand with limited options for modern music.
Price Range: $350-$1,000
13. Takamine
Takamine is a Japanese guitar manufacturing company founded in 1959. The brand is known for its steel-string acoustic guitars with excellent playability. In Jan 2024, Takamine released its new GD34CE and GD38CE acoustic guitars. The GD34CE and GD38CE are part of the affordable G Series range. You can buy the 6-string GD34CE for around $786 or the 12-string version for about $837. [12]
Image source: Takamine
Pros: Takamine’s guitars combine modern woodworking techniques with traditional hand craftsmanship and advanced electronics to deliver the best tones and playing experience.
Cons: Takamine’s guitars are expensive. The latest affordable options cost over $780.
Price Range: $780-$1,500
14. Alvarez
Alvarez is an American acoustic instrument manufacturer founded in the mid-1960s. The brand is known for its flamenco and classical steel-string guitar models. In Sep 2024, Alvarez introduced a new voicing and tonal response in its Honduran and Masterworks Series. This upgrade widens the tonal palette and enhances the guitar’s capabilities. You can buy Alvarez guitars on Amazon. [13]
Image source: Alvarez Guitars
Pros: Alvarez offers high-quality guitars for beginners and experienced players. Artists like Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Paul McCartney have been associated with the brand.
Cons: Alvarez specializes in acoustic guitars. The brand doesn’t offer electric guitars and basses.
Price Range: $230-$1,000
15. EastCoast T1
EastCoast is a guitar brand that excels in quality and affordability. It serves guitarists seeking low-budget options. Players can choose the EastCoast T1, ST1, or L1. The entry-level EastCoast ST-1 model is high-quality and one of the most affordable guitars on the market. [14]
Image source: Andertons
Pros: EastCoast is one of the most affordable, high-quality guitar brands. Its low-budget guitars are functional and playable across genres, from indie rock to country.
Cons: EastCoast caters to beginners seeking low-budget training guitars. Its instruments may not fulfill the needs of professional guitarists with complex playing styles.
Price Range: $70-$200
References & more information
- Welter, L. (2024, Jan 22). Guitar Sales Statistics (US National Survey 2024). Piano Dreamers
- Maxwell, J. (2023, Aug 30). Gibson gives the Les Paul Standard a 2023 makeover with vibrant finishes that are anything but sunburst. Guitar World
- Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (2024, Jul 1). Fender unveils new product innovations for summer 2024 across electrics, acoustics, and accessories. Fender.com
- Owen, M. (2024, Jan 9). Ibanez revamps its RG and S collections for NAMM 2024. Guitar World
- Roberts, R. (2024, Jan 25). Yamaha launches four new high-end Pacifica models. Guitar.com
- Dunn, M. (2024, Jan 16). PRS Guitars Unveiled Their 2024 Core Models Today, and We Got to Review One. Ultimate Guitar
- Koe, C. (2024, Jan 25). Taylor’s 50th-anniversary limited edition series features the brand’s best-selling guitar models. Guitar.com
- Owen, M. (2024, Jan 23). Martin’s 2024 limited-edition collection returns Bitcoin and drops a $50K anniversary guitar. Guitar World
- Swingle, E. (2024, Jan 19). Nuno Bettencourt discusses his relationship with Washburn Guitars. Guitar.com
- JHS (2023, Nov 21). JHS becomes the exclusive distributor for the full Godin Guitar range. Music Instrument News
- Jeff, D. (2024, Jan 26). Guild Polara adds new colors and expands the models for 2024. Gear News
- Weller, P. (2024, Jan 29). Here is a lower-cost option that’s pure Takamine in its voice. Yahoo
- Alvarez (2023, Sep 27). What are the latest Alvarez models for 2024? AlvarezGuitars.com
- England, A. (2024, Apr 18). Lee Anderton says spending an extra $5 making a budget guitar can make it “twice as good.” Guitar.com
- Featured Image by Jeremy Allouche
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