Best
Beginner Electric Guitar
Greats
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Overall: Well-crafted guitar with no defects
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Best Feature: Excellent playability and sound
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
All-Rounder Electric Guitar
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Overall: Favorite among musicians
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Best Feature: Ergonomic neck design
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Intermediate Electric Guitar
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Overall: Smooth and warm playing
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Best Feature: built with a classic Les Paul shape
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TedScore™: 9/10
Get your pick ready to rock because we’re jumping into the **exciting** world of **budget-friendly** electric guitars! Here’s a **detailed guide** to finding the **best electric guitar** for less than £300.
Whether you’re a budding musician strumming your first notes, or a seasoned player looking for a budget-friendly addition to your collection, this is the place to be.
Set aside any notions that ‘affordable’ means ‘cheaply made.’ I’m here to debunk that myth once and for all!
It’s not easy to find high-quality made guitars at a cheap price – but that was my task, and I think I’ve fulfilled it!
You can find a quality guitar with a killer sound, comfortable playability, and stunning aesthetics without burning a hole in your pocket.
So, brace yourself for a sonic journey as I explore the realm of pocket-friendly electric guitars that don’t compromise on quality.
Is an Electric Guitar Under 300 Worth Buying?
We often associate a hefty price tag with quality when it comes to electric guitars. But that’s not always the case – many guitar models for under 300 offer amazing features and tonal capabilities that rival more expensive counterparts.
In fact, there has been an exponential rise in the production of budget-friendly guitars that don’t compromise sound and usability. Many of these models feature vintage designs, advanced pickups, and modern bridge systems – all for a fraction of the cost.
However, while these guitars provide excellent value, they might require some upgrades or modifications in the long run, such as changing the strings or adjusting the action for optimal playability.
Electric Guitars Under 300: For Beginners or Professional Players?
Contrary to popular belief, electric guitars under 300 are not just for beginners. Many experienced guitarists opt for these models due to their amazing features and affordability.
These guitars are perfect for professionals experimenting with different sounds and tones. They offer a variety of bridge systems, pickups, and onboard effects that allow you to customize your sound just the way you want it.
Meanwhile, beginners can benefit from these models since they have an easy learning curve and require minimal maintenance. This makes them the perfect choice for those just starting out.
Factors to Consider when Choosing an Electric Guitar Under 300
1. Brand and Reputation
The brand of the electric guitar you choose matters a lot. Brands with a good reputation usually have a history of producing quality instruments.
Some known under-300 brands include Yamaha, Ibanez, Jackson and Epiphone.
These brands have a proven track record of reliability, durability, and excellent customer service.
2. Body Style and Shape
An electric guitar’s body style and shape can significantly influence its sound and playability.
For instance, a solid-body guitar is typically versatile and suitable for various music genres, while a semi-hollow or hollow-body guitar might be more suited to jazz or blues.
The shape of the guitar also impacts ergonomics and comfort during play.
3. Pickups and Electronics
Under 300 dollars, most electric guitars will feature passive pickups and onboard electronics such as a three-way toggle switch and two or more control knobs.
These components will determine the tone of your guitar, so it’s important to consider what type of sound you’re looking for before making a purchase.
Humbucker pickups provide a fuller, thicker sound than single-coil pickups, while active electronics offer a wider range of tones and volume levels.
4. Wood Type and Quality
The type of wood used to build an electric guitar can greatly impact its sound and quality.
Poplar, mahogany, and alder are popular tonewoods often used to construct guitars at this price point. Each provides a different sonic characteristic that contributes to the overall sound produced by the instrument.
Inspecting the craftsmanship and build quality of the instrument can also help you determine the value it provides at its price point.
5. Overall Playability and Feel
Finally, the overall playability and feel of the guitar are crucial. Factors such as neck width and shape, fretboard material, and string action can significantly impact the guitar is comfort.
The guitar should feel good in your hands, and you should be able to navigate the fretboard easily.
Also, check if the guitar needs additional setup or adjustments to enhance its playability.
7 Recommended Electric Guitars Priced Under 300
Ibanez GSA60QA GIO Series S Shape QM, Transparent Red Burst
Ibanez GIO series is one of the most popular electric guitars in its price category, delivering premium quality at an affordable price.
The GSA60QA in Transparent Red Burst allows players to experience a powerful guitar that suits all playing levels. With its sleek design and superior craftsmanship, this electric guitar looks and performs better than anything else in its price range.
What really sets the GIO series apart is its Infinity R/RS pickups. The Infinity R humbucker at the bridge provides high output, noise-free sound, while the RS single coils in the middle and neck deliver lower output vintage-style twang.
The neck of the GSA60QA is crafted from maple and features a GSA profile. This ensures each note is accurately reproduced for a smooth playing experience. The medium-jumbo frets are perfect for bending strings while keeping them in tune.
The T102 tremolo bridge provides great tuning stability and allows you to pull off awesome dive bombs, while the master volume and tone controls give you stylish control over your sound.
FEATURES: Body: Poplar
OTHER INFO: .009/.011/.016/.024/.032/.042 string gauges
Ibanez GSA60QA GIO Series, Transparent Red Burst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comfortable neck design with GSA shape and medium frets
- Easy playability thanks to the 305mmR radius fingerboard
- Transparent red burst finish makes this guitar look great
- Infinity RS (S) neck and bridge pickup provides a balanced tone
- Includes a gig bag for transport and storage
- Sound quality is warmer and fuller
- Pickups need to upgrade for better sound quality
- Limited availability
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Squier Sonic Stratocaster MN, 2-Color Sunburst
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster is a top choice in its price category, lauded for its adaptable tonal possibilities and exceptional playability. It comes in an impressive variety of colors, making it an ideal pick for novices or as an auxiliary instrument for more seasoned players.
Fender’s ‘C’ profile is famed for its comfortable grip, offering sufficient bulk for chord progressions while remaining agile enough to facilitate solos and bends. The fretboard is inviting to the touch, featuring medium jumbo frets that cater to many playing techniques.
The Stratocaster’s setup of three single-coil pickups is a tried-and-true classic credited for its adaptability that spans genres from country to hard rock. These pickups deliver the vibrant and resonant tones that have become synonymous with the Stratocaster’s reputation.
The vintage-style synchronized tremolo bridge is an iconic feature of the Stratocaster, giving it the signature shimmering vibrato sound that so many players are fond of. This model is also equipped with sealed die-cast tuning machines for stability and optimal string tension.
FEATURES: Maple fretboard
OTHER INFO: Scale Length: 25.5"
Squier Sonic Stratocaster MN, 2-Color Sunburst
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Well-crafted guitar with no defects
- Excellent playability and sound
- Versatile sounds due to the five-way pickup switch
- Lightweight, comfortable body
- Good intonation and low action
- Partial thickness body
- Needs tweaks in intonation and string height
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Dean MD X Floyd, Black Satin
The Dean MD X Floyd guitar will stand out wherever it’s played, largely due to its unique body aesthetic. It offers a seamless playing experience that simplifies even the most intricate chords and melodies.
The sleek rosewood fretboard enhances your speed, while the comfortable “C”-shaped maple neck prevents hand fatigue and discomfort. This allows you to focus solely on your music.
The mahogany body resonates beautifully, giving the sound a unique warmth and depth. The two DMT Design humbucker pickups deliver an amazingly high output with plenty of power and clarity to spare. A three-way pickup switch allows you to select between neck, middle or bridge positions for versatility.
The Floyd Rose FR20 double-locking tremolo bridge provides a tighter connection between your strings and guitar, giving you more control over intonation and tuning stability. The sealed die-cast tuners are easy to operate and keep your instrument in tune, so you can spend less time worrying about technicalities and more time practicing.
FEATURES: Fingerboard Radius: 12.00"
OTHER INFO: Scale Length: 25 1/2"
Dean MD X Floyd, Black Satin
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Maple neck shaped in a classic C shape for easy playability
- High-quality and valuable wood used in construction
- Enables expressive playing
- Floyd Rose R3 Nut to maximize tuning stability
- DMT Design Humbucker pickups for great sound quality
- 22 Jumbo frets for a smooth feel
- Pearloid dot fingerboard inlays for an elegant look
- Pickup switching is limited to a three-way
- Limited features and controls
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Epiphone Les Paul Melody Maker E1 (Previously Les Paul SL), Turquoise
If you’re seeking the genuine experience and usability of a Les Paul and insist on having the Les Paul brand on the headstock, this Epiphone is the best choice under a 300 budget.
The Epiphone Les Paul Melody Maker E1 is built with a classic Les Paul shape and features a mahogany neck and a poplar body. It has two Epiphone single coil pickups for a bright, clean tone. The adjustable intonated “Wrap Around” stop bar combo bridge provides accurate tuning stability and great sustain.
The fingerboard of the Melody Maker E1 is made from Pau Ferro composite – an exotic wood known for its smooth feel and great acoustic properties. The neck is slim and fast, perfect for playing complex chords and intricate solos.
This guitar boasts a finish of gloss which gives the electric an elegant look. The sound is bright and clear, perfect for both blues and rock genres.
Features: Nut Width: 16"
Other Info:2 Epiphone 650SCR and 700SCT Single Coil Pickups
Epiphone Les Paul Melody Maker E1
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable alternative to expensive Gibson Les Paul models
- Decent tone for a $150 guitar
- Excellent choice for beginners
- Articulate and biting tones ideal for rock music
- Easy access to upper frets with cutaway profile
- Intonated "wrap around" stop bar combo for enhanced stability
- May require frequent tuning adjustments
- Frets may be uncomfortable for some players
- Pickups are not the most powerful in their range
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Pacifica 012, Blue Metallic
The Yamaha Pacifica series has swiftly emerged as a favorite among musicians who crave superb sound and easy playability on the wallet. The Pacifica 012, with its HSS pickup arrangement and tremolo, is a versatile superstar that can handle any style.
The neck, designed in a ‘C’ shape profile, is surprisingly slim, offering a rapid and seamless playing encounter. Coupled with the flatter radius fretboard, it’s especially user-friendly for beginners working on their initial chords.
The beauty of the Pacifica 012 lies in its HSS pickup mix. This unique blend features a humbucker at the bridge, ideal for delivering a robust rock sound, and two single coils at the middle and neck for a milder, softer tone.
The result? An extraordinary clarity of sound with a wide tonal spectrum makes it a perfect fit for any genre of music. It’s not just an instrument; it’s your passport to an exhilarating musical journey.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner to Intermediate
FEATURES: 5-Position Lever Switch
OTHER INFO: Agathis/Nato/Alder Body
Yamaha Pacifica 012, Blue Metallic
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Incredible value for money
- Wide range of tonal options
- Tasteful design and finish
- Comfortable neck profile and fingerboard radius
- 22 frets and vintage style tremolo
- Lower output than some humbucker pickups
- Not suitable for those who are used to high gain tones
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Jackson JS22 Dinky Archtop Left Handed, Gloss Black
Cheaper guitars don’t usually have as many features, but the Jackson JS22 Dinky Archtop molds this concept. This amazing electric guitar has advanced features and a great sound quality that will help you take your playing to the next level!
Jackson Guitars is based in California and has made electric guitars since 1970. As one of the US’s biggest and oldest guitar manufacturers, they are known for their quality, unique designs, and affordability.
The Jackson JS22 features a poplar body, a gloss black finish, and a slim “C” neck. Its neck pickup gives you a rich tone with plenty of resonance when playing in the bridge position. The Jackson High Output humbucking pickups provide even more power from your sound when dialing up the master volume and master tone knobs.
The fretboard on the JS22 is Amaranth wood, while the fret size is Jumbo. This allows for smooth playability and accuracy when playing chords or leads.
FEATURES: Fretboard Radius: 12 "-16"
OTHER INFO: 2-Point Fulcrum Tremolo bridge
Jackson JS22 Dinky Archtop Left Handed, Gloss Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High-output humbucking pickups for punchy tones
- Jackson Sealed Die-Cast machine heads for added durability and tuning stability
- Low action, ergonomic design for comfortable playability
- Slim 'C' neck profile to fit your hand perfectly
- Durable poplar body and glossy black finish
- Pearloid Sharkfin inlays for added flair
- Not the most versatile guitar on the market
- The low action can cause some buzzing when playing faster passages
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
SubZero Generation 7 Electric Guitar, 7-String, Jet Black
The last product in the best electric guitars under 300 is the SubZero Generation 7 Electric Guitar. Crafted from solid alder wood, this instrument has been expertly crafted to provide exceptional playability and comfort. It features two powerful and articulate humbucking pickups with ceramic magnets for an authentic classic rock tone and a single saddle bridge to give an even output with each string.
The SubZero Generation 7 is crafted to emphasise comfort and ease of play. It boasts a pronounced bevel on the top edge and an intricately shaped back. The neck heel is cleverly indented to allow effortless access to the full span of the 24-fret fingerboard.
The fretboard, made from laurel wood, is paired with a soothing maple tonewood neck to ensure excellent sound quality. The fretboard features a compound radius ranging from 14″ to 20″, facilitating comfortable low chord placements and ultra-low action on the higher frets.
On top of these features comes full control over your sound with the volume and tone knobs and a 3-way toggle switch to ensure a reliable and balanced sound. The 7-string SubZero Generation also comes with 10-56 gauge strings for a professional sound out of the box and includes a truss rod and bridge saddle Allen keys.
FEATURES: Strings: 10-56
OTHER INFO: Scale Length: 27
SubZero Generation 7 Electric Guitar, 7-String, Jet Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Good value for a 7-string multiscale guitar
- Decent construction and solid hardware
- Compound fretboard radius for optimal playability
- Laurel fretboard with heat-treated maple layer for boosted tone and volume
- Comprehensive pickup control with volume, tone knobs and 3-way toggle
- Some finish issues (minor)
- Dry fretboard
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Accessories To Go With Your Electric Guitar
The electric guitar is a complete package, but a few things can enhance your playing experience.
Here is a comprehensive list of accessories worth looking into if you want to improve your guitar-playing skills.
Guitar Amp
A guitar amplifier is a crucial piece of equipment that magnifies the sound of your electric guitar . It converts the small electrical signal from the guitar into a large one, enabling it to drive a speaker and produce sound.
Invest in a good quality amp to make your performance heard loud and clear.
We have a dedicated article on Guitar Amp here…
PERFECT FOR: Beginner
FEATURES: 1/4” jack guitar input
OTHER INFO: Dimensions: 310 x 320 x 180mm
15W Electric Guitar Amp by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable price point perfect for beginners
- Simple and user-friendly controls for quick adjustments
- Lightweight and portable
- Speaker-defeating headphone output
- Lack some advanced features
- Sound quality can be a bit muddy at higher volumes
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tuner
A tuner helps you adjust your guitar strings to the correct pitch, ensuring your music sounds as it should. They come in various forms, from clip-on tuners to pedal tuners. Korg Pitchclip is a good option for guitarists that are just starting out.
We have a dedicated article on Guitar Tuners here…
PERFECT FOR: all guitar players
FEATURES: Has a compact & stylish design with an enlarged screen for better visibility
OTHER INFO: With improved & enhanced holding power with rubber grips for protection
Korg Pitchclip 2 Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Boasts an improved detection accuracy for precise & stable tuning
- Designed from the player's point of view for precise & easy tuning
- Auto-power-off function saves battery life when not in use
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Spare Strings
Guitar strings are prone to wear and tear and can break at the most inconvenient times. It’s always wise to have a set of spare strings on hand.
Not only does this prevent interruptions during performances, but fresh strings can also improve the sound of your guitar. D’Addario makes great strings that sound good and last long.
We have a dedicated article on Guitar Strings here…
FEATURES: .009, .011, .016, .024, .032, .042 string gauges
OTHER INFO: Satchel from Steel Panther has been known to use them!
D'Addario EXL120 Electric Guitar Strings, Super Light
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Extremely comfortable playing experience
- Bright, biting tone that won't let you down
- Good intonation across all notes of the fretboard
- The perfect replacement set for D'Addario fans
- Noisy when sliding, especially on overdrive
- Some players may prefer thicker strings
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Strap
A guitar strap is more than just a functional item – it’s a part of your image as a guitarist. Straps allow you to comfortably play your guitar while standing up, essential for live performances.
They come in various materials, lengths, and designs, so you can express your style.
We have a dedicated article on Guitar Straps here…
FEATURES: 1/4" thick foam padding
OTHER INFO: Adjustment: 37'' to 51''
Levy's 3" Top Grain Leather Strap, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Top-grain leather material
- Comfortable design for long playing sessions
- Easy ladder style adjustment for optimum performance height
- Secure fastening to prevent slipping off your shoulder
- Available in three colors
- Relatively expensive compared to other straps on the market
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Guitar Stand
Investing in a guitar stand is sensible and provides a safe and handy place to keep your guitar when idle.
It safeguards your instrument from possible harm while simultaneously allowing you to proudly showcase your guitar. Opt for a robust and cushioned stand to guarantee your guitar’s safety.
We have a dedicated article on Guitar Stands here…
FEATURES: Padded seat and backrest for extra comfort
OTHER INFO: Black/Grey Color
Fender 351 Guitar Seat & Stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight and portable for easy transport
- Durable construction to support any size guitar
- Comfortable enough to use during long practice sessions
- Stylish pick-shaped backrest
- Price may be too steep for some budgets
- Non-adjustable height
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tips for Caring for Your Electric Guitars
Taking care of your guitars is one of the best ways to ensure they last and continue to sound great. Here are some tips for caring for your electric guitar:
Clean your guitar regularly with a soft cloth or rag. This will help keep the strings in good condition and reduce static build-up.
Adjust the truss rod according to your playing style and instrument type to minimize string buzz and ensure optimal playability.
Use a humidifier to protect from damage caused by dry climates if you live in a dry area.
Regularly lubricate the nut slots and bridge saddles with lubricants or graphite for smooth operation.
Replace strings as necessary to maintain tone and ensure optimal playability.
Take your guitar for regular maintenance checks at authorized service centers. This will ensure that all parts are functioning optimally.
Regularly check the intonation of your electric guitar by playing fretted notes on various strings and comparing them with open strings. Adjust the bridge saddles to correct the intonation if they don’t sound the same.
Make sure to use proper technique when playing your electric guitar. This includes good posture, hand position and fretting technique.
Invest in a good set of strings and use them regularly for the best results.
Consider using a string winder to make changing strings faster and easier.
Electric Guitar Under 300
Summary
The sub-300 category is teeming with many guitars, with an array that spans from exceptional models, as I’ve detailed in this review, to others that don’t quite make the grade.
Before you commit to a purchase that might set you back by several hundred dollars, it’s crucial to undertake thorough research and introspection. This will help you pinpoint the specific needs and desires you expect your guitar to fulfill.
If you’re struggling to choose, my favorite on the list is the Epiphone Les Paul Melody Maker E1 – I think for the money, it’s a superb instrument.
Now that I’ve provided you with my list of the best electric guitars under 300, I’m curious to know your final verdict. Playing guitar is a wonderful hobby, so picking just the right instrument for you is essential.
Have you picked out a favorite yet? Let me know in the comments section below!
