Electric Guitars
Best Overall
Fender American Professional II Stratocaster
This model is renowned for its versatility, offering a wide range of classic Strat tones. It features a trio of pickups, including a neck pickup that delivers a phenomenal low-end sound. The deep ‘C’ neck profile and rolled fingerboard edges provide a comfortable playing experience. The addition of a treble bleed circuit ensures you retain high-end tones even when the volume is rolled off.
Best Les Paul
Gibson Les Paul Standard 60s
A classic choice for those seeking the traditional Les Paul experience. This guitar boasts a mahogany body with an AA figured maple top, and a pair of Gibson 60s Burstbucker humbuckers for powerful LP tones. The Slim Taper neck with a ‘D’ profile provides excellent playability. It’s ideal for classic rock, hard rock, and blues.
Best Telecaster
Fender Player Plus Telecaster
This Telecaster offers incredible value for money with features typically found on higher-end models. It includes Fender’s noiseless Tele pickups, a pull-up tone knob for humbucker-esque sounds, and a comfortable ‘C’ profile neck. The guitar’s versatility and range of finish options make it a standout in its category.
Best for Modern Features
Fender Player Plus Stratocaster HSS
An excellent modern take on the Stratocaster, featuring noiseless single-coil pickups and a bridge humbucker for added power. The compound 12” fingerboard radius caters to modern playing styles, making it a great option for those looking to blend traditional Strat sounds with contemporary features.
Best Budget Option
Yamaha Pacifica 112V
This guitar is a top choice for beginners due to its outstanding build quality, versatile tones, and playable neck. It offers a well-rounded sound suitable for various genres and is one of the most popular beginner guitars available.
Best Signature Model
Charvel Pro-Mod San Dimas Style
Featuring 2 humbuckers, this guitar covers a wide sonic range from heavy riffs to open soundscapes. It’s an exceptional choice for players looking for a signature model with versatile tonal options.
