Whether you’re transitioning from acoustic to electric, adding another electric to your collection, or embarking on your guitar journey with a cutting-edge eight-string shredder axe, the choice of guitar brand holds significant weight.
For some enthusiasts, brand loyalty runs deep, proudly displaying an array of guitars from their chosen manufacturer and pledging unwavering allegiance. Others opt for pragmatism, selecting the model that suits their needs best, irrespective of brand.
But what engenders such devotion among guitarists for certain brands? Whether it’s the impeccable craftsmanship or the unmistakable tones they produce, the finest electric guitar brands have achieved legendary status, endorsed by revered artists across generations.
In this article, we delve into the details of 11 electric guitar brands, enriching your understanding of the guitar landscape and aiding your decision-making process should you be in the market for a new instrument.
Top Electric Guitar Brands
1. Gibson
Best Suited for: Intermediate to advanced guitarists, particularly those passionate about rock and blues.
Famous Guitarists: Slash (Guns N’ Roses), Jimmy Page (Led Zeppelin), and Billie Joe Armstrong (Green Day)
Gibson stands as one of the most iconic electric guitar brands, deeply ingrained in the hearts of guitarists worldwide. With a legacy dating back to 1902, Gibson boasts over a century of expertise in crafting instruments that define musical genres and ignite creativity.
Adored by rock and blues aficionados, Gibson guitars are celebrated for their rich, warm tones and remarkable sustain, making them quintessential for these styles of music.
The legendary Les Paul and SG models remain staples in Gibson’s lineup, having endured the passage of time with their solid construction and exceptional playability. These guitars have served as the instrument of choice for numerous iconic guitarists.
The Les Paul, distinguished by its single-cutaway design and dual humbuckers, offers a versatile range of tones, from velvety smooth to ferociously crunchy. Conversely, the SG is favored for its lightweight body and swift-playing neck, providing comfort and agility for intricate solos.
While Gibson guitars command a premium price, they justify it with their use of top-tier materials and meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring each instrument delivers superior sound quality and longevity. It’s not uncommon to encounter vintage Gibsons that sound as pristine as the day they were first played—the enduring quality of these guitars is unparalleled.
Our Recommendation: Gibson Les Paul Modern Studio
2. Epiphone
Best Suited for: Beginners to intermediate players, as well as value-conscious guitarists.
Famous Guitarists: John Lennon (The Beatles), Noel Gallagher (Oasis), and Gary Clark Jr.
With roots tracing back to 1873, Epiphone has earned a stellar reputation over the years. Initially renowned for their mandolins and banjos, Epiphone made a significant impact upon entering the guitar market, delivering instruments of remarkable quality and affordability.
Epiphone’s electric guitar lineup caters to a diverse range of players, from novices taking their first steps to intermediate players seeking dependable instruments. The brand is especially favored by those who prioritize high-quality guitars at reasonable prices.
Drawing inspiration from their sister company, Gibson, Epiphone offers budget-friendly renditions of iconic designs such as the Les Paul and SG. These guitars maintain the classic aesthetics and tonal characteristics of their Gibson counterparts while being considerably more accessible in terms of pricing. This makes them an appealing option for aspiring guitarists looking to channel their rock idols without breaking the bank.
However, Epiphone guitars aren’t merely budget alternatives to Gibson models. They possess their own unique charm and character, attracting musicians like John Lennon and contemporary blues maestro Gary Clark Jr. for their distinctive tone and playability.
Our Recommendation: Epiphone ES-335
3. Fender
Best Suited for: Beginners to professionals across all music genres.
Famous Guitarists: Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, and Bruce Springsteen
Since its establishment in 1946, Fender has been at the forefront of the electric guitar industry, catering to a broad spectrum of players, from novices discovering their musical path to seasoned professionals seeking unparalleled quality and performance.
If you’re here, chances are you already harbor a profound interest in guitars, making it unnecessary to reiterate that Fender is synonymous with its iconic Stratocasters and Telecasters. Nonetheless, let’s delve into these guitars, as they’ve profoundly influenced numerous music genres and epitomize the essence of the brand.
The Stratocaster, famed for its ergonomic contoured body and versatile three-pickup configuration, has earned the admiration of legendary guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Its vibrant, chiming tone and effortless playability render it a preferred choice across a spectrum of styles, spanning rock, blues, country, and jazz.
Conversely, the Telecaster boasts a distinct twang and sturdy construction. With its solid body and dual-pickup design, the Telecaster has become synonymous with country music but thrives just as well in rock, blues, and jazz contexts.
Yet, Fender’s prowess extends beyond the Stratocaster and Telecaster.
Kurt Cobain championed the Jaguar for its innovative electronics and versatile lead/rhythm switching system. The Jazzmaster, featuring retro aesthetics and punchy single-coil pickups, has found favor with artists like Elvis Costello and Thom Yorke. Meanwhile, the Mustang’s gritty tone caters to grunge and alt-rock aficionados, with proponents including John Frusciante and Bilinda Butcher.
Across the Fender lineup, impeccable build quality is a consistent hallmark. The brand remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering instruments that are rugged, playable, and acoustically superior.
Our Recommendation: Fender American Pro II Stratocaster MN
4. Squier
Best Suited for: Beginners and intermediate players, as well as value-conscious guitarists.
Famous Guitarists: Avril Lavigne, Simon Neil (Biffy Clyro), and Deryck Whibley (Sum 41)
Squier, an American brand acquired by Fender in 1965, boasts a rich history dating back to 1890. Renowned for crafting quality guitars at a more affordable price point than its parent company, Squier has become a preferred choice for beginners and intermediate players alike.
Squier’s lineup mirrors that of Fender, offering models such as the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Mustang, and Jaguar. These instruments retain the classic aesthetics and tonal characteristics of their Fender counterparts, making them ideal for guitarists on a budget who aspire to capture that distinct Fender sound.
Despite their affordability, Squier guitars uphold high-quality standards—a testament to being under the Fender umbrella. Their solid craftsmanship provides a sturdy foundation for beginners and a dependable tool for seasoned players.
Moreover, many Squier owners utilize their guitars as a platform for personal modifications, allowing them to tailor their instrument to their evolving playing style and preferences.
Squier guitars have graced stages alongside renowned artists such as Avril Lavigne, Simon Neil of Biffy Clyro, and Deryck Whibley of Sum 41. This underscores that the brand caters not only to beginners and budget-conscious musicians but also to professionals in need of performance-worthy instruments.
Our Recommendation: Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Telecaster MN
5. Ibanez
Who they’re best suited to: Advanced guitarists, metal and rock genres
Famous guitarists: Paul Gilbert, Jake Bowen, and Lari Basilio
Ibanez, a Japanese guitar brand owned by Hoshino Gakki, have been a cornerstone in the electric guitar industry since 1908. Recognised for their excellent craftsmanship and versatility, Ibanez guitars cater predominantly to advanced players, particularly rock and metal guitarists.
The brand offer everything from standard six-string electric guitars to seven, eight, and even nine-string models. These instruments are known for their sleek designs, fast necks, and high-output pickups that deliver a powerful, aggressive tone — perfect for shredding solos and heavy riffs.
The RG series, in particular, is a revered range of guitars that has been advocated by Steve Vai and Mick Thomson. The S series, on the other hand, is designed for riffing and high-speed playing, which also makes them perfect for metal players.
Many guitarists have collaborated with the brand and developed signature Ibanez models; these artists include Paul Gilbert, Jake Bowen, and Lari Basilio. The guitars reflect the style and preferences of their namesakes, giving fans the best opportunity to experience the sound and setup of their guitarist heroes.
As well as high-end models, Ibanez also offer a selection of affordable yet good-quality guitars in the GIO series that are suited to budding musicians on a budget.
Ibanez’s blend of quality, versatility, and forward-thinking design has solidified their status as one of the best electric guitar brands. Whether it’s for hard-hitting metal or rock, they’re a reliable brand with a solid reputation that has stood the test of time.
Our recommendation: Ibanez RG421S-SEM
6. Gretsch
Best Suited for: Intermediate to advanced players, particularly those in rock ‘n’ roll, country, and blues genres.
Famous Guitarists: George Harrison, Chet Atkins, and Brian Setzer
Founded in 1883, Gretsch stands as one of the oldest electric guitar brands, profoundly influencing various music genres ranging from rock ‘n’ roll and country to blues and jazz.
Gretsch’s hollowbody electric guitars are especially revered, renowned for producing a distinct, resonant tone that epitomizes the brand’s identity.
The Electromatic Collection exemplifies this with its hollowbody guitars featuring two humbucking pickups like the Black Top Filter’Tron or Broad’Tron, often accompanied by a Bigsby tremolo bridge.
Gretsch guitars are distinguished by their vintage aesthetic and impeccable craftsmanship. Sporting iconic features such as large headstocks, thumbnail fretboard inlays, and G-arrow control knobs, Gretsch instruments exude timeless allure.
Over the years, the brand has garnered the admiration of numerous prominent players. From George Harrison of The Beatles to country legend Chet Atkins and rockabilly icon Brian Setzer, Gretsch has remained the instrument of choice for esteemed guitarists across genres.
Our Recommendation: Gretsch G5420T Electromatic Classic Hollow Bigsby
7. Yamaha
Best Suited for: Beginners and intermediate players, as well as versatile guitarists across various genres.
Famous Guitarists: Carlos Santana, James Taylor, and Joe Bonamassa
Yamaha is renowned for its extensive range of instruments, including electric guitars, catering to a diverse array of players.
Combining quality and affordability, Yamaha aims to deliver value for money, offering guitars that are well-crafted, sound exceptional, and are easy to play. This makes Yamaha an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate players seeking their first or subsequent electric guitar.
The Pacifica range, in particular, is tailored for budget-conscious players without compromising on quality. Recently, at NAMM 2024, Yamaha introduced a selection of new Pacifica guitars geared towards advanced musicians seeking premium features.
Yamaha doesn’t just cater to different skill levels but also to various genres. From rock and blues to jazz and country, Yamaha guitars are favored by versatile musicians keen to explore diverse sounds and styles with a single instrument.
If you’re concerned about Yamaha guitars lacking the prestige of brands like Fender or Gibson, fret not. These guitars have garnered endorsements from several renowned guitarists—Carlos Santana, James Taylor, and Joe Bonamassa, among others.
Our Recommendation: Yamaha Revstar Standard RSS20
8. Jackson
Best Suited for: Advanced guitarists, particularly those inclined towards metal and rock genres.
Famous Guitarists: Randy Rhoads, Phil Collen, and Adrian Smith
Jackson, an esteemed American guitar brand founded in 1980, holds a prominent position in the electric guitar realm. The brand’s instruments are distinguished by their distinctive shapes, finishes, and tones, meticulously crafted with metal and rock musicians in mind.
Renowned for their sleek, thin necks, Jackson guitars are tailored for guitarists whose fretting hands maneuver swiftly across the fretboard. This characteristic renders them especially well-suited for advanced players and high-speed riffing.
Among Jackson’s most renowned guitar models is the revered Rhoads series, named after the legendary guitarist Randy Rhoads. These guitars are instantly recognizable for their unique, aggressive body shapes and high-output pickups, epitomizing the classic Jackson tone.
While the brand primarily caters to advanced players, it also offers entry-level models such as the JS12 Dinky, providing casual players with an introduction to the signature Jackson quality at a more accessible price point.
Our Recommendation: Jackson X Series Dinky DK3XR HSS
9. SubZero
Best Suited for: Guitarists seeking affordability and versatility, ideal for both stage and studio use.
Famous Guitarists: Erik Bickerstaffe and Connor Sweeney (Loathe)
SubZero guitars are renowned for providing an excellent entry point for beginners, offering a blend of affordability and quality that appeals to a wide spectrum of guitarists.
Despite their lower price compared to premium brands, SubZero guitars feature quality materials and electronics, ensuring great sound and effortless playability.
For instance, the Paradigm Semi-Hollow Electric boasts a pair of P90 pickups and a body crafted from mahogany and basswood, delivering resonant tones that complement its hollow construction.
While these guitars are tailored towards novice musicians, they also meet the needs of gigging professionals requiring a durable, high-performance instrument for stage performances. Bands like Loathe exemplify musicians who have relied on SubZero guitars to deliver the warm, versatile tones they require.
Our Recommendation: SubZero Paradigm Electric Guitar
10. PRS Guitars
Best Suited for: Intermediate to advanced players, particularly those in the rock, blues, or jazz genres.
Famous Guitarists: Carlos Santana, John Mayer, and Mark Tremonti
Founded in 1985, PRS, or Paul Reed Smith Guitars, hails from Maryland and is renowned for crafting high-quality electric and acoustic guitars, basses, and accessories. The brand has carved out a distinct niche in the market, becoming a favorite among rock, blues, and jazz musicians.
In fact, it was merely four years before the brand’s inception that Paul Reed Smith crafted his first guitar. His pursuit of innovation led to the creation of a compensated nut for improved intonation and the PRS tremolo system, inspired by Carlos Santana’s desire for a vibrato that maintained tuning stability.
PRC guitars are celebrated for their impeccable craftsmanship. Each instrument undergoes meticulous construction, ensuring not only stunning aesthetics but also exceptional sound and playability. This commitment to detail has solidified PRS’s reputation as a premium guitar brand.
PRS offers a diverse range of models tailored to varying player needs and budgets. From the high-end Custom 24 and McCarty models to the more budget-friendly SE series, PRS ensures there’s a guitar for every player. Despite the price variances, each PRS guitar is crafted with the same level of precision and attention.
Their guitars have graced the hands of numerous famous guitarists, including Carlos Santana, John Mayer, and Mark Tremonti.
Our Recommendation: PRS Silver Sky John Mayer MN
11. Rickenbacker
Best Suited for: Advanced guitarists, particularly those with a preference for classic rock and jangle pop.
Famous Guitarists: George Harrison, Tom Petty, and Peter Buck
Pioneers since 1931, Rickenbacker made history by producing the world’s first solid-body electric guitars. Over seven decades later, the brand maintains its esteemed status as a premier guitar brand. While Rickenbacker is renowned for its legendary basses, its guitars are equally noteworthy.
What distinguishes Rickenbacker is its vintage twang. Among its most iconic models is the 360, a semi-hollow electric guitar celebrated for its sleek design and distinctive headstock. With a rich history of being wielded by legendary guitarists like George Harrison and John Lennon, the 360 embodies a legacy of musical excellence.
Characterized by retro styling and distinctive sound, Rickenbacker guitars are perfectly suited for classic rock and jangle pop—ideal for capturing the essence of the ’60s.
However, owing to their premium-quality materials, hardware, and craftsmanship, Rickenbacker guitars come with a hefty price tag. As such, they are better suited for advanced or professional guitarists who prioritize investing in a premium brand over beginner players.
Our Recommendation: Rickenbacker 360 12-String
Things to look for in a guitar brand
When selecting a guitar brand, several factors warrant consideration to ensure you choose the one best suited to your preferences and requirements. Here are some key considerations:
- Brand History: Examining the brand’s history can provide valuable insights into its heritage and reputation. Established brands often boast a rich legacy and a proven track record of delivering quality instruments. With years of experience, these brands have refined their craftsmanship and earned a solid reputation in the music industry.
- Endorsements by Famous Musicians: The endorsement of guitars by renowned artists serves as a testament to their quality and sound. If a brand has been favored by famous musicians, it indicates that their instruments offer exceptional quality and performance. Conversely, exploring the guitar preferences of your favorite musicians can help guide your decision-making process, as their choices may align with your musical preferences.
- Brand Reputation: Assessing a brand’s reputation through reviews, recommendations, and testimonials from fellow musicians can provide valuable insights into its reliability and customer satisfaction. Positive feedback from users can instill confidence in the brand’s offerings and help you make an informed decision.
- Price Point: While price is a significant factor, it’s essential to strike a balance between cost and quality that aligns with your budget and needs. While expensive guitars often reflect higher quality craftsmanship and materials, many affordable brands offer excellent value for money. Carefully consider your budget and prioritize features that are most important to you when evaluating different brands.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select a guitar brand that meets your musical aspirations and preferences.
How to choose the right electric guitar for you
Brand
As demonstrated in this article, one of the initial steps in selecting an electric guitar is determining which brand aligns best with your preferences and musical style. Some individuals swear by Fender guitars, while others gravitate towards Ibanez or Jackson for their metal prowess. Exploring different brands, perhaps by testing them out in person (our showroom in York offers a great starting point!), can help you find the perfect fit for your playing style.
Additionally, it’s important to consider the average price range associated with each brand. For instance, unless you’re a dedicated enthusiast, Rickenbacker guitars may not be within your budget. If you’re a beginner or operating on a tight budget, brands like Epiphone or Squier offer more affordable options without compromising on quality. Keeping these factors in mind can assist you in making a well-informed decision when selecting your electric guitar.
Guitar body shape
The shape of a guitar significantly influences both its playability and aesthetics. Before making a decision, it’s crucial to determine the style of playing you’ll primarily engage in. For enthusiasts of classic rock and blues, models like the Gibson Les Paul are worth considering, thanks to their rich heritage and distinctive tone. Conversely, if you’re aiming for high-speed riffing and intricate solos, models like the Ibanez RG series are designed to meet the demands of shredders.
For those seeking versatility across various genres, iconic models like the Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster are excellent all-rounders. These guitars offer a balanced combination of playability, tone, and aesthetics, making them suitable for a wide range of playing styles and musical genres. Ultimately, understanding your preferred style of playing will guide you towards selecting a guitar shape that complements your musical aspirations and enhances your overall playing experience.
Pickups
For beginners diving into the world of electric guitars, understanding pickups is essential. The two most common types you’ll encounter are single coils and humbuckers.
Single coils are known for their clear, bright, and twangy sound, making them well-suited for genres like blues and rock. Conversely, humbuckers offer more power and are ideal for rock genres and achieving distortion effects. As their name suggests, humbuckers are designed to reduce the hum often associated with single coils.
Guitars typically feature various pickup configurations, usually with a maximum of three pickups – one at the bridge, one at the neck, and one in the middle. Experimenting with different pickup combinations through testing out guitars can help you find the sound that resonates most with your preferences and playing style. Whether you’re aiming for crisp cleans or soaring leads, understanding pickups and their configurations is key to finding the right guitar for your musical journey.
Build quality and hardware
When considering an electric guitar, the build quality and hardware play pivotal roles in its performance and longevity. A durable instrument capable of withstanding regular practice and performances is essential for any guitarist.
While the choice of wood used in a guitar may not significantly impact its tone, it does influence the instrument’s weight. However, in the case of hollow or semi-hollow guitars, the tonewood can indeed affect the sound. Maple, for example, is often favored for its ability to complement the airy tone of hollow-body guitars.
Attention to hardware is equally crucial, encompassing components such as the bridge, tuning heads, and cables. Opting for high-quality hardware enhances the guitar’s sound, playability, and overall durability. Generally, investing more in a guitar tends to result in better hardware, thereby improving tuning stability and tonal sustain.
However, if budget constraints are a concern, selecting a more affordable guitar from a reputable brand is a viable option. Reputable brands often maintain a standard of quality in both the build and hardware of their guitars, ensuring a satisfactory playing experience without breaking the bank.
Neck profile
The thickness of a guitar neck significantly influences the overall playing experience. For those who engage in rapid fretboard navigation or intensive shredding, a sleek, thin neck may offer enhanced maneuverability and comfort. On the other hand, blues and rock guitarists often prefer thicker necks, which provide a substantial feel and support for bending notes and chords.
Ultimately, the most comfortable neck thickness varies depending on individual preferences and playing styles. The best way to determine your preference is by trying out different neck profiles for yourself. Only through hands-on experience can you accurately assess which neck thickness feels most comfortable and conducive to your playing style.
Final thoughts
We trust that our guide to the top electric guitar brands has assisted you in selecting the perfect instrument for your needs. Whether you’re embarking on your musical journey as a beginner or a seasoned guitarist seeking to expand your collection, understanding a brand’s history, values, and reputation is essential.
Being aware of a brand’s legacy and its commitment to quality craftsmanship can guide you towards making an informed decision. Additionally, considering a brand’s mission and reputation within the music community can further refine your choices.
Remember, the right electric guitar brand is not just about the instrument itself but also about the story it tells, the values it embodies, and the reputation it upholds. Whether you’re strumming your first chords or performing on stage, may your guitar journey be filled with inspiration and creativity.
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