The Best Electric Guitars for Beginners (That Don’t Break the Bank)
Starting your musical journey with the right electric guitar can make all the difference. Whether you’re just learning your first power chord or getting serious about your tone, your first guitar should feel great, sound solid, and fit your budget.
At Morris Guitar Company, we specialize in used and refurbished guitars that give beginners incredible value—without the sticker shock of buying new. Here’s our guide to the best beginner-friendly electric guitars you can get for under $500, featuring trusted brands and real-world advice.
🎸 What Makes a Great Beginner Electric Guitar?
Before we dive into specific models, here’s what to look for as a new player:
Comfortable neck and body – You want something that feels good to hold and play for extended periods.
Reliable electronics – Clean, noise-free pickups and solid hardware make learning smoother.
Solid build quality – Even at a beginner level, the guitar should stay in tune and take daily practice in stride.
Style that inspires you – Looks matter too! If you love how your guitar looks, you’ll be more likely to pick it up.
🔥 Our Top Picks for Beginners
All of the guitars below are available in used or refurbished condition at Morris Guitar Company - meaning you get high-quality gear at a fraction of the cost.
1. Squier Affinity Stratocaster
Why it’s great: Iconic look, versatile tones, and lightweight feel.
Perfect for: Rock, blues, pop, indie—this one does it all.
Beginner tip: Go for a model with a "C-shape" neck -it’s easier on smaller hands.
2. Epiphone Les Paul Special II
Why it’s great: Thick, warm tone with serious rock attitude.
Perfect for: Classic rock, metal, punk.
Beginner tip: This guitar’s weightier feel gives it great sustain - ideal for soloing and power chords.
3. Jackson JS Series JS22 DKA
Why it’s great: Sleek looks, fast neck, and aggressive tone.
Perfect for: Metal, shred, and high-gain styles.
Beginner tip: The thinner neck profile makes it easy to build speed early on.
4. Washburn Sonamaster Electric Guitar
Why it’s great: Great build quality and punchy tone at a beginner price.
Perfect for: Modern rock, funk, and rhythm playing.
Beginner tip: These are often overlooked, which means great deals on lightly used models.
5. Gretsch Streamliner Jr Jet Club
Why it’s great: Vintage style with smooth tone and excellent playability.
Perfect for: Blues, indie, surf rock.
Beginner tip: A good choice if you want something that stands out visually and sonically.
💡 Why Buy Used or Refurbished?
You’ll get better components, name-brand craftsmanship, and more bang for your buck. Our guitars are professionally inspected and set up to make sure they’re gig-ready - even if you’re still just jamming in your bedroom.
At Morris Guitar Company, we carry used and refurbished models from Fender, Squier, Jackson, Epiphone, Gretsch, Washburn and more, all priced for beginners who want to start strong.
🎵 Ready to Plug In and Play?
Whether you’re buying your first guitar or upgrading from a starter pack, we’ll help you find the perfect fit. Visit our shop or browse online to check out our latest selection.