Best Budget Electric Guitars For Metal: The 2024 Edition

I know what you’re thinking: Do I have to spend a fortune to get a good guitar? Not anymore.

These days, there are tons of affordable guitars out there that are perfect for beginners and even experienced players on a budget.

Here’s the deal—we test a lot of guitars every year. We focus on brands we know and trust, like Squier, Epiphone, and Harley Benton, but we’re not afraid to check out some lesser-known names, either.

If a guitar makes our list, it’s because it plays well and sounds legit.

You don’t need to spend Gibson or PRS money to get a guitar that’ll perform well on stage or in the studio.

If you’ve got anywhere from $200 to $500 to spend, you can grab an electric guitar that will not only sound great but also last for years.

The Best Value Guitars Aren’t Always The Most Expensive

When it comes to value, knowing where a guitar is made and by whom can make a big difference.

Take Tokai, for example. They make both Japanese and Chinese models, but the Japanese ones are far superior.

This kind of insider knowledge can save you from dropping cash on a guitar that’s all looks and no substance.

I personally own a Chinese-made Tokai, and let me tell you, it’s a piece of junk compared to my Squier guitars. The difference?

The Squier models—Fender’s budget brand—play beautifully, even though they’re also considered “budget” guitars.

It’s not always about where the guitar is made, but about the brand’s attention to quality, especially in the lower price range.

Brands You Can Trust for Quality at a Low Price

If you want a guitar that’ll last and sound good without requiring a second mortgage, stick to well-known, trusted brands like Squier, Epiphone, Schecter, and Harley Benton.

These brands know what they’re doing when it comes to making guitars that are both affordable and high-quality. We’ve tested them ourselves, and they’ve never let us down.

And here’s another tip: avoid those no-name guitars you see on Amazon. Just because something looks cool or is super cheap doesn’t mean it’s going to play well.

It’s always better to spend a little more on a reliable brand that we know holds up.

Try Before You Buy

If you can, visit your local music shop and try out a few guitars in person. It doesn’t matter if you can’t play yet; just holding the guitar will tell you a lot.

Here are some key things to look for:

• Body Shape and Comfort: Is the guitar comfortable to hold? Try out different shapes like Strats, Les Pauls, and SGs.
• Neck Feel: Every guitar neck feels different. Some are slim and fast, while others are thicker. Find what feels right in your hand.
• Weight: Some guitars are heavier than others. Make sure the weight feels manageable for you.
• Aesthetic: Don’t underestimate the power of loving how your guitar looks. You’ll be more motivated to play something you think looks badass.

Even if you’re brand new, don’t be shy—music store employees are used to helping beginners find the right guitar.

Tell them what you’re into, and they’ll help guide you toward something that suits your style.

Pick a Guitar That Fits You

Another thing to consider is choosing a guitar based on the style of music you want to play.

If your favorite guitarist plays a Les Paul, go ahead and check out something like an Epiphone Les Paul Standard.

If you’re into metal, maybe try a Kramer or Ibanez model that’s built for speed and heavy tones.

At the end of the day, the right guitar is the one that feels good in your hands and inspires you to play.

Whether that’s a classic rock icon like a Stratocaster or a high-output metal machine, trust your gut and go with what excites you.

What to Avoid with Your First Guitar

Here’s a piece of advice we give all beginners: stay away from tremolo bridges (those whammy bars) for your first guitar.

They might look cool, but they’re a pain to deal with when you’re just learning.

Tuning stability is key, and tremolo bridges can be a headache, especially when you’re starting out. Stick with a fixed bridge for your first guitar—it’ll make your life easier.

Also, don’t fall into the trap of thinking you can only play certain genres on certain guitars.

Sure, some guitars are designed with a specific style in mind, but you can play anything from metal to jazz on the same guitar if it’s set up right.

Pick a guitar that inspires you, and don’t worry about what the “rules” say.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your (Perfect) First Guitar

Buying your first guitar doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Stick with reliable brands, try before you buy if you can, and remember that comfort and feel are just as important as looks and sound.

Whether you’ve got $200 or $500 to spend, there’s a killer guitar out there for you.

Me? If I were starting out again today for the first time, I’d be looking at either the Squier Affinity Series (most likely a Strat model) or the Ibanez GIO GRG121SP. Both are exceptional guitars for the money you’ll pay for them.

Whatever you go for, just make sure it’s one you’re excited to pick up every day and play — that’s what playing and sticking with it is all about.

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