How Much Does an Electric Guitar Cost?

Thinking of adjusting the budget for a new electric guitar? You are in the right space.

Electric guitar prices vary, and it can be confusing to know how to determine your budget, and even get the best guitar for the money.

The price of an electric guitar does not always reflect the quality. Hence, it is essential to familiarize yourself with guitar costs and price determinants.

In this article, we have details on guitar prices for all levels of playing in-depth to help you choose the ideal electric guitar.

How Much Does an Electric Guitar Cost? (Short answer)

An electric guitar costs about $200 and a high-end electric guitar can cost upwards of $2000. Generally, electric guitar prices vary depending on the model, brand, and features.

How Much Do Popular Electric Guitars Cost?

Some of the most reliable and popular electric guitars are:

• Fender
• Ibanez
• Epiphone
• Yamaha
• Squier
• ESP

Below are the current prices of some of the electric guitars from the popular brands listed above and more:

• Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT SSS Electric Guitar – $199-$250
• Ibanez 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar- under $200
• ESP LTD KH-602 Signature Series Kirk Hammett Electric Guitar- $1300-$1500
• Fender Player Stratocaster HSS Electric Guitar- $800-$900
• Yamaha Pacifica PAC112JL YNS Left-Handed Electric Guitar- below $300

How Much Is a Beginner Electric Guitar?

If you are looking for a beginner guitar, you should have a budget of $200-$600. For beginners, one can start with an inexpensive guitar. Most affordable electric guitars have the needed features for beginners. 

However, you should know the features to look for in a beginner guitar. In this case, seek advice from your guitar tutor, or experienced guitarists.

How Much Is an Intermediate Guitar?

Once you pass the beginner level of guitar playing, it is essential to upgrade your guitar. An electric guitar for intermediate costs from $400 to $900. You can opt for more expensive options, but for a good guitar, your budget should be from $400.

The reason why you need a more expensive guitar for intermediate is that your skill levels deserve high-quality sound and high-quality guitar materials. Also, intermediate guitar players are usually on the road to becoming pro guitarists, and they, therefore, need a high-quality guitar.

How Much Is a Pro Electric Guitar?

A professional electric guitar costs $1000. If you are playing guitar on a pro level, your guitar should be high-end and with the best features. Pro guitars are expensive because they possess the best features to help guitarists express their skills and play comfortably.

Professional guitarists do not have the luxury of changing their guitars frequently, this is why a high-quality, durable electric guitar is important. Also, professionals need a hardy guitar that can withstand the test of travel and live performances, as well as recordings in harsh temperatures. 

What Determines the Price Of an Electric Guitar?

Manufacturer

Established and prestigious brands like Fender and Gibson have a higher price due to their reputation for quality. The best thing about buying from reputable brands is quality assurance.

Electronics

Electric guitars feature different electronic components such as pickups, wiring, and others. These parts of the guitar affect the sound and playability. High-end components like humbucker pickups and active pickups drive up the price of the guitar but deliver great results when playing. For instance, humbucker pickups deliver a thick, warm sound, while suppressing external noises.

Wood

The quality and type of wood used for the body, neck, and fretboard, can significantly affect the cost of an electric guitar. High-end materials such as mahogany and rosewood are more expensive than light woods such as alder. Wood determines the sound, and durability of the guitar. The wood is also responsible for the look of the guitar as high-end wood is more elegant, and sophisticated.

Craftsmanship

The level of skill and attention to detail put into a guitar not only affects how the guitar looks but also how much it costs. Handcrafted guitars can be more expensive than mass-produced guitars as they look incredible and last longer. Some guitars are also hand-painted to deliver a unique luxurious look, making them more expensive.

Age

Vintage electric guitars that are rare and of high-quality making are fairly expensive. Also, the latest electric guitar models can prove to be expensive compared to older models.

FAQs

Is a $100 Guitar Worth Buying?

A beginner electric guitar that costs $100 can serve you well. Also, if you are buying a guitar for a 6-year-old, a $100 guitar is worth it.

Is It Worth Starting With a Cheap Guitar?

Starting with a cheap beginner guitar is not a bad idea. Most of the time, cheap guitars sound good and are comfortable enough for beginners.

Can a Cheap Electric Guitar Last Long?

With regular maintenance and proper storage, a cheap electric guitar can last for a longer time, sometime more than a decade.