Classic Electric Guitars – Top 10 Guitars of all Time

The history of modern music has been significantly shaped by one instrument – the electric guitar. So much of the music we love today simply wouldn’t be possible without it and a large part of that is down to the all time classic electric guitars featured in this list.

To this end we’ve whittled down our list of the best electric guitars to only the most era-shaping instruments and provided you with the two foremost contemporary versions of those classics that are available today – the premium model and a more affordable version.

Note: The guitar models featured in this article are not ranked via our usual Gearank algorithm, because we can’t really rank a particular model over the history of electric guitars. Also these classic models don’t aspire to quality, in some sense they define it. The affordable and premium example guitars we’ve selected have been included on the basis of being the foremost standard representative around today of the ‘real thing’ rather than on our usual ranking process.

So without further adieu we present to you the all-time classic – Best Electric Guitars.

Fender Stratocaster

Artists Who Use It: Jimmy Hendrix, Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Jeff Beck, Buddy Guy, Ritchie Blackmore, Dick Dale, John Frusciante, Eric Johnson, George Harrison, Buddy Holly, Mark Knopfler, Yngwie Malmsteen, John Mayer, Kenny Wayne Shepherd, Stevie Ray Vaughan.

The Fender Stratocaster is, without a doubt, one of the most iconic guitars in history. Introduced in 1954, the Strat changed the landscape of music with its revolutionary design and unmatched versatility. Its sleek, contoured body, bright and cutting tones, and versatile three-pickup configuration made it a favorite for guitarists across all genres. From blues to rock, surf to jazz, the Strat has done it all. With its smooth, responsive tremolo system, the Stratocaster was the perfect guitar for players who wanted to push their creativity to the limits.

Today, the Stratocaster is still a versatile guitar. It doesn’t have any one defining tone. However, it’s generally considered to be a very bright and cutting instrument (though not to the extent that the Telecaster is). It also has a mid-range “quack”. It’s a great choice for musicians looking to play lead. Though to be fair, this really varies based on your playing style, your amp, and how you EQ your rig.

The Stratocaster is one of the most copied instruments in the world, and because of this, dozens of different interpretations of it exist. However, the most affordable version of this guitar that still looks and feels like those played by famous musicians is the Fender Standard Stratocaster. The “Strat” remains one of the most popular types of electric guitars today.

Fender American Original ’50s Stratocaster

The Fender American Original ’50s Stratocaster is a faithful recreation of the early Strat models that shaped the sound of rock ‘n’ roll. Fender went all-out to make this guitar as close to the original 1950s models as possible. With its Pure Vintage ’59 single-coil pickups, it captures that bright, snappy tone that defined the Strat in its early years. The pickups are built to vintage specs, so they offer that classic Strat quack and bell-like clarity that’s perfect for everything from clean, chiming chords to sharp, biting leads.

The ’50s Strat comes with a period-correct “Soft V” shaped neck, which gives it a comfortable, vintage feel that’s ideal for both chord work and fast lead runs. The nitrocellulose lacquer finish gives the guitar a gorgeous look and allows the wood to breathe over time, so it’ll age gracefully as you play it. Whether you’re into early rock, blues, or even country, the American Original ’50s Stratocaster delivers the unmistakable tone and feel that helped shape the sound of popular music. More expensive Strats are available from the Fender Custom Shop.

Fender Standard Stratocaster

If you’re looking for that ’50s Strat tone and vibe but at a more affordable price, the Fender Vintera ’50s Stratocaster is a fantastic option. Part of the Vintera series, this guitar captures the retro look and sound of the 1950s without the premium price tag. It’s got a pair of re-voiced single-coil pickups that give you the same bright, articulate tones that made the Strat famous, and the period-correct “Soft V” neck profile feels great in the hands, offering a smooth playing experience whether you’re strumming chords or ripping through solos.

The Vintera ’50s Stratocaster also comes with vintage-style hardware and a traditional six-point synchronized tremolo, so you can get those classic Strat whammy bar moves down without losing tuning stability. With its sleek looks and killer vintage tones, the Vintera ’50s Strat is perfect for players who want to channel that iconic 1950s sound but at a fraction of the cost.

Gibson Les Paul

Artists Who Use It: Les Paul, Slash, Jimmy Page, Billy Gibbons, Zakk Wylde, Ace Frehley, Bob Marley, Steve Clark, Joe Perry, Eric Clapton, Duane Allman, Buckethead, Peter Green.

The Gibson Les Paul is one of the most familiar among the classic electric guitars ever made, and the 1959 model is the holy grail. Known for its thick, warm tone and legendary sustain, the 1959 Les Paul has shaped the sound of rock, blues, and beyond for over half a century.

With its solid mahogany body, carved maple top, and dual humbucker pickups, the Les Paul delivers a rich, full sound that’s perfect for everything from soaring leads to chunky rhythm work. It’s a guitar with a massive legacy, and owning a ’59 is like holding a piece of music history in your hands.

Gibson Custom Shop 1959 Les Paul Standard

The Gibson Custom Shop 1959 Les Paul Standard is as close as you can get to owning a true 1959 Les Paul without shelling out millions for an original. The Custom Shop meticulously recreates the specs of the original ’59 model, from the nitrocellulose finish to the hand-wound Custom Bucker pickups that deliver that vintage Gibson tone, to be more specific, the vintage PAF tone. The iconic thick ’59 neck profile offers a comfortable, solid feel in your hands, while the mahogany body and carved maple top provide the perfect blend of warmth and brightness.

The ’59 Les Paul is known for its sustain, and this Gibson Les Paul Custom Shop version doesn’t disappoint. Whether you’re playing clean, bluesy runs or cranking up the gain for hard rock, the tone is unmistakable—fat, warm, and dripping with character. It’s the guitar of legends for a reason, and the Custom Shop nails every detail, making it the ultimate choice for players who want a faithful reproduction of the most famous Les Paul in history.

Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard – Inspired by Gibson

For those looking to get the ’59 Les Paul experience without the eye-watering price, the Epiphone 1959 Les Paul Standard from the “Inspired by Gibson” series is an excellent alternative among affordable guitars. Epiphone partnered with Gibson Custom to produce this model, and the result is one of the best budget Les Pauls ever made. Featuring a solid mahogany body, maple top, and Epiphone’s ProBucker pickups (which are based on the legendary Gibson PAF humbuckers), this guitar delivers all the rich, full tones you’d expect from a Les Paul.

The Epiphone ’59 Les Paul Standard also features a 50s-style neck profile, giving you that vintage feel in your hands, and comes with premium CTS pots and Mallory capacitors, ensuring top-notch tone and performance. The guitar’s fit and finish are impressive for the price, and it really captures the traditional look of the original ’59 Les Paul. Whether you’re playing blues, rock, or metal, this Epiphone delivers all the warmth and sustain that made the Les Paul famous.

Fender Telecaster

Artists Who Use It: Jimmy Page, Joe Strummer, Keith Richards, Bruce Springsteen, John 5, Jeff Buckley, Prince, James Burton, George Harrison, Albert Collins, Muddy Waters, Syd Barrett, Jack White, Danny Gatton, Vince Gill, Johnny Greenwood.

The Fender Telecaster, introduced in 1950 is one of the first mass-produced solid-body electric guitars. And it is also one of the most influential Fender guitars in modern music history. Known for its bright, biting tone and straightforward design, the Telecaster became an instant hit with musicians across genres.

It is a minimalist, two-pickup configuration, solid body electric guitar. And it has a bolt-on neck design, all of which were revolutionary at the time, allowing players to explore new sonic territories with clarity and precision.

From country twang to gritty rock ‘n’ roll, the Telecaster has proven itself to be an incredibly versatile instrument that’s been embraced by guitarists from almost every musical style. Its no-nonsense approach and ability to cut through the mix make it a favorite for rhythm and lead guitarists alike, earning its place as a solid guitar for performance.

If you’re interested in exploring different guitar variations, such as the best 7 string guitar, you might want to check out our dedicated article on the topic. You an also see instructions on how to tune a 7 string guitar the right way.

Fender American Original ’50s Telecaster

The Fender American Original ’50s Telecaster captures the essence of the earliest Telecasters, offering a faithful recreation of the 1950s models that helped define popular music. Built with period-accurate hardware and electronics, this guitar features Pure Vintage ’52 single-coil pickups, which deliver the classic Tele twang that’s perfect for everything from early rock ‘n’ roll to country. Its “U”-shaped neck and vintage-style frets make it a dream to play for those looking to capture the feel of a genuine ’50s Telecaster. Additionally, the nitrocellulose lacquer finish allows the guitar to age naturally, enhancing its resonance and adding to its vintage appeal.

The American Original ’50s Telecaster is ideal for players looking for a historically accurate representation of the early Telecaster models, complete with the sound, look, and feel that made the instrument famous. Whether you’re chasing the clean, cutting sound of country, or the raw, overdriven tones of early rock, this guitar delivers it all.

Fender Vintera ’50s Telecaster

The Fender Vintera ’50s Telecaster is a more affordable alternative that still provides players with a taste of vintage Telecaster charm. As part of the Vintera series, it focuses on replicating the classic design elements and tones of ’50s-era Teles, making it perfect for those who want a retro sound without the premium price tag. The Vintera ’50s Tele is equipped with vintage-style single-coil pickups that produce a bright, articulate tone reminiscent of early Telecasters, with a soft “V”-shaped neck profile for comfortable playing.

The Vintera also comes with vintage-style tuners and a traditional three-saddle bridge, further enhancing its retro aesthetic and tonal authenticity. It’s a versatile guitar, well-suited for players who need a solid all-rounder that can handle clean country licks, rock rhythms, and more without breaking the bank.

Gibson SG

Artists Who Use It: Angus Young, Tonny Iommi, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Robby Krieger, Derek Trucks, Eric Clapton, Thom Yorke, Frank Zappa, Dickey Betts, Elliot Easton.

Just like the Les Paul, the Gibson SG is synonymous with rock and roll. It’s hard to picture Black Sabbath or AC/DC without an SG. While the guitar is generally considered to be a rock and roll machine, it’s also a very capable blues guitar (see Eric Clapton and Derek Trucks).

The Gibson SG was launched in 1961, inspired by a decline in the sale of Gibson Les Pauls. The SG was cheaper to produce, lighter, and, through the use of an upper and lower bout cutaway, had significantly more upper fret access.

When it comes to tone, the SG is actually really similar to the Les Paul. You could make the case that a Les Paul will have more sustain than an SG, though this is going to vary from model to model. It’s main appeal over the Les Paul is that it’s lighter.

Gibson USA SG Standard

The Gibson SG Standard is the flagship model and everything you’d expect from a classic SG. With its 490R and 490T humbuckers, it delivers that thick, punchy tone that’s perfect for everything from clean blues to full-blown rock and metal. The double-cutaway body makes it easy to reach the highest frets, while the slim taper neck lets you fly around the fretboard with ease. It’s also got that all-mahogany construction, which gives it its signature sustain and warmth. If you’re looking for the guitar that defined the sound of hard rock, this is it.

It’s no surprise that legends like Angus Young and Tony Iommi have made the SG their go-to guitar for decades. Whether you’re looking to play blistering leads or heavy, chunky riffs, the SG Standard delivers every time.

Epiphone SG Standard ’61 – Inspired by Gibson

If the Gibson SG Standard is a little out of your budget, don’t worry – Epiphone has you covered with the SG Standard ’61 – Inspired by Gibson. This model is part of Epiphone’s “Inspired by Gibson” series, and it’s designed to give you all the classic SG looks and sounds without breaking the bank. It’s got the same double-cutaway body and slim taper neck, but with Epiphone’s ProBucker pickups, which are built to recreate the sound of vintage Gibson humbuckers. You’ll get that same biting tone and sustain that SGs are known for, whether you’re playing clean or cranking up the distortion.

With vintage-style hardware and a sleek finish, the Epiphone SG Standard ’61 looks and feels great, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants to experience the iconic SG tone without the premium price tag.

Super Strat

Artists Who Use It: Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai, Jason Becker, Guthrie Govan, Joe Satriani, John Petrucci, Adrian Smith, KK Downing, Jim Root.

This category is probably going to be controversial because there’s no one brand that defines “Super Strat”. Pretty much every guitar company has made one, and the originals were modified Fender Stratocasters (with Eddie Van Halen’s guitar being a good example).

They also don’t really have any one defined tone, though they do generally have higher output (higher output equals = more volume = more distortion). This section features Ibanez, but if you feel like there’s a better choice for this section tell us about it in the comments.

Super Strats generally have two features that differentiate them from an average Stratocaster: high-output pickups (usually humbuckers) and a Floyd Rose tremolo (the last one is optional). They’re good at playing distorted genres, but they sound a bit too much when used to play genres that are either clean (no distortion) or played at low levels of distortion.

Ibanez Jem

The Ibanez JEM777 is a signature model created for virtuoso guitarist Steve Vai and was first introduced in 1987. The JEM777’s distinctive look—complete with a “monkey grip” handle carved into the body and flashy neon finishes—makes it one of the most recognizable guitars in the world. Beyond its looks, the JEM777 features a fast, flat neck, DiMarzio Evolution pickups, and a double-locking Edge tremolo system, all designed to accommodate Vai’s dynamic playing style.

The JEM777 set the benchmark for Super Strats and remains a staple for players looking for a high-performance guitar that can handle shredding, whammy bar dive-bombs, and technical lead work with ease.

For players who want the JEM experience at a more affordable price, the Ibanez JEM Jr. offers a similar aesthetic and performance. With the same “monkey grip” and body shape, this guitar captures the essence of Steve Vai’s iconic model, making it an accessible option for those looking to dive into the world of Super Strats. The Jem Jr is the best electric guitar under 500 if you’re into Steve Vai and Super Strat guitars.

Ibanez RG550

The Ibanez RG550, first released in 1987, is another cornerstone of the Super Strat world. With its sharp, angular body and flat, fast-playing neck, the RG550 was designed for shredders and technical players. It became a go-to guitar for players who needed precision and speed, with features like a double-locking tremolo system and high-output pickups to deliver crushing leads and tight rhythm tones.

One of the key aspects of the RG550’s enduring appeal is its versatility. While it’s known for handling heavy distortion and metal tones, it can also be dialed back for cleaner tones, making it a favorite for players across genres.

Japanese Guitar makers used to have the reputation that Chinese and Korean guitar makers have today, but in all reality Japanese instruments are easily on par with any American manufacturer. They have just as strong of a focus on quality control and playability as any other high-end manufacturer, and it shows. The guitar also comes with Ibanez’s top Floyd Rose style tremolo, which is great for heavy whammies and dive bombs. The pickups are pretty hot. If you’re looking to play rock and/or metal, the Ibanez RG550 is the best electric guitar under 1000 that you can get today.

Gibson ES-335

Artists Who Use It: Eric Clapton, Larry Carlton, Chuck Berry, Otis Rush, Dave Grohl, Eric Johnson, Warren Haynes, Alvin Lee, T-Bone Walker, Freddie King, Roy Orbison.

First introduced in 1958, the Gibson ES-335 is a semi-hollow guitar generally used to play the blues. It has an airy and full tone and, like other semi-hollow guitars, is considered to have a portion of the frequency response you’d get from an acoustic guitar. This response gives it slightly more overtones than a solid body instrument.

However, there is a flaw with semi-hollow guitars. Semi-hollow instruments have a tendency to feedback when played with a lot of distortion or at high volumes. They’re a great fit for blues, but they’re not really ideal if you want to play harder genres of rock.

Gibson ES-335 Standard

The Gibson ES-335 Standard is a guitar that pretty much defines the phrase “classic tone.” With its semi-hollow construction and a pair of humbuckers, it’s known for delivering smooth, resonant sound that’s perfect for blues, jazz, and rock. The 335 is all about balance – the warmth and depth of its hollow body, mixed with the power and clarity of its humbuckers, make it versatile enough for clean jazz runs or big, crunchy rock chords. It’s one of the few jazz guitars that works well with other genres.

The all-maple body gives it a bright, snappy attack, while the mahogany neck and rosewood fretboard add warmth and sustain. The 335’s tone is thick and full, but it’s not as prone to feedback as fully hollow guitars, making it perfect for live gigs and studio work. Whether you’re playing clean or dirty, the ES-335 has a sound that just cuts through.

From Chuck Berry’s rock ‘n’ roll licks to Dave Grohl’s modern rock power, the ES-335 Standard is a guitar that can do it all and has the history to back it up.

Epiphone Inspired by Gibson ES-335

For players looking to get that 335 tone on a budget, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson ES-335 is a fantastic choice. This guitar is designed to capture the essence of the Gibson model at a fraction of the price. Like the Gibson, it features a semi-hollow body with a solid center block for reduced feedback and a pair of Epiphone Alnico Classic PRO humbuckers that deliver those warm, rich tones the 335 is famous for.

The Epiphone model comes with a maple body, a mahogany neck, and the same 24.75″ scale length as the Gibson version, so you’re getting the same feel and playability. The ProBuckers offer a great range of tones, whether you’re looking for clean, jazzy chords or overdriven rock solos. Plus, with vintage-style hardware and a variety of finishes, it looks just as classy as the real deal.

If you want that classic ES-335 tone and vibe without the premium price tag, the Epiphone Inspired by Gibson ES-335 is a solid option that doesn’t skimp on quality.

Gretsch White Falcon

Artists Who Use It: Neil Young, Billy Duffy, Brian Setzer, Chet Atkins, John Frusciante

The Gretsch White Falcon isn’t just a guitar – it’s a statement piece. First introduced in 1955, the White Falcon is known for its eye-catching design and luxurious features. With its sparkling gold hardware, oversized body, and beautifully arched top, this guitar looks as incredible as it sounds. But the White Falcon isn’t all flash – it delivers a rich, resonant tone that’s perfect for everything from rockabilly to big, vintage-sounding rock tones. This guitar’s fully hollow body gives it a deep, resonant sound, while the Filter’Tron pickups provide a bright, clear high end that cuts through the mix with ease.

It’s no wonder that the White Falcon has been favored by rock legends and guitarists who want their instrument to stand out just as much as their playing.

Gretsch G6136T White Falcon

The Gretsch G6136T White Falcon is the modern version of the original, with all the style and sound that made it legendary. The guitar’s large, fully hollow body, made from laminated maple, gives it a big, open tone that’s perfect for everything from clean, jazzy runs to gritty rock riffs. It features Gretsch’s famous Filter’Tron pickups, which deliver that classic Gretsch sound – clear, punchy highs with a tight, focused low end.

The gold hardware, binding, and appointments aren’t just for show – this guitar is built to play and perform at the highest level. With its Bigsby tremolo system, you can add subtle vibrato or dive into full-on bends, all while maintaining tuning stability. The G6136T White Falcon is perfect for players who want a guitar with both serious tone and stage presence.

Gretsch G5422TDC Electromatic

If you want the White Falcon vibe but don’t need all the premium features, the Gretsch G5420T Electromatic is a fantastic alternative. Part of Gretsch’s more affordable Electromatic series, the G5420T still offers a hollow body with a bright, twangy tone that Gretsch is known for. It’s fitted with Black Top Filter’Tron pickups, which give you plenty of that crisp, clear Gretsch sound, whether you’re playing clean or overdriven.

The G5420T also features a Bigsby tremolo, so you can still add those subtle bends and warbles that are a staple of Gretsch guitars. It might not have all the luxury details of the White Falcon, but the G5420T is a great option for players who want that classic Gretsch tone and feel without the premium price tag.

Fender Jaguar

Artists Who Use It: Kurt Cobain, Johnny Marr, Jim Root, Thurston Moore, John Frusciante, Elvis Costello, Josh Klinghoffer.

The Fender Jaguar, originally intended to be a successor to the Fender Stratocaster, was kind of the red headed stepchild of the Fender line-up. Early Jaguars just didn’t sell well enough to keep them in production, so the line was discontinued in 1975. However, during the punk and alternative movement of the 1980s and 90s they became popular with musicians because for their price (they weren’t highly regarded, so they usually sold cheaply in pawn shops) they were a steal.

After the instrument’s resurgence Fender relaunched the Jaguar in 1999, and since then it has continued to be produced in a variety of different configurations.

Fender American Original ‘60s Jaguar

The Fender American Original ‘60s Jaguar is a loving recreation of the original Jags from the 1960s, complete with all the quirky features that helped this guitar make its mark. With a pair of Pure Vintage ’62 single-coil pickups, it delivers that sharp, biting tone that Jaguars are known for, perfect for cutting through a mix whether you’re playing surf rock, indie, or punk.

The shorter scale length makes the strings feel a bit slinkier, which is great for big bends and fast riffs, while the floating tremolo system allows for deep dives and subtle vibrato. Plus, the unique rhythm and lead circuit lets you quickly shift between warm, mellow tones and bright, aggressive sounds. It’s a tonal playground for players who love to experiment.

The American Original ’60s Jaguar is perfect for players who want that classic offset vibe with a touch of vintage tone and modern reliability. Whether you’re playing clean, jangly chords or cranking up the fuzz for gritty, overdriven leads, this Jag has you covered.

Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar

As a whole, the Vintage Modified series is actually a really good bargain. Case in point: the Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar. The Vintage Modified Jaguar is essentially a modern update to the Jaguar’s design that retains the circuitry that defines the guitar. As you can see by the controls, the Jaguar has a few controls lacking in the majority of guitars. These controls are used to tweak the sound, giving you a greater variety of tones you can access from your guitar. Groups like Sonic Youth made great use of these controls. They’re also great if you’re trying to dial in your tone, because you have so much control over the parameters of your sound.

At this price point, the Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar is going to be your best bet if you want the traditional controls associated with this model of guitar. It’s a feature rarely found in a guitar this affordable, so it’s pretty impressive that Fender was able to bring it to the market at all.

You can see out latest research on the best electric guitars under 1000. Or, if you want to step down a little on price, you should look at the best electric guitars under 500.

Fender Jazzmaster

Artists Who Use It: Tom Verlaine, Thurston Moore, J Mascis, Elvis Costello, Kevin Shields

The Fender Jazzmaster has always been a bit of an outsider in the Fender lineup. Originally designed in 1958 for jazz musicians, it didn’t quite catch on in that world. But instead, it found its true home with surf rockers and, later on, indie rock and alternative icons. With its offset body and unique floating tremolo system, the Jazzmaster has a feel and sound all its own. Its warm, full tone makes it perfect for jangly chords and lush, atmospheric soundscapes, but it also holds up under heavier distortion. The Jazzmaster’s distinctive tone and slightly quirky controls have made it a favorite for musicians who love experimenting with their sound.

Fender American Original ’60s Jazzmaster

The Fender American Original ‘60s Jazzmaster is a faithful recreation of the original models that helped define surf rock and alternative music. It features Pure Vintage ‘65 single-coil pickups, which are specifically designed to capture that rich, smooth tone the Jazzmaster is known for. The signature floating tremolo system lets you add everything from subtle vibrato to full-on whammy bar dives, while the offset body and vintage “C” shaped neck make it incredibly comfortable to play, especially during long sessions.

The American Original Jazzmaster keeps all the quirky features that made the original famous, like the dual-circuit design, which allows you to quickly switch between a darker rhythm tone and a brighter lead sound. Whether you’re playing clean, surfy tones or cranking up the fuzz for grungy, alternative rock, this Jazzmaster delivers in every way. It’s the perfect choice for players who want vintage looks and tone, with modern playability.

Squier Classic Vibe Jazzmaster

For players on a budget, the Squier Classic Vibe Jazzmaster offers an incredible value. Part of Squier’s Classic Vibe series, this model gives you the iconic Jazzmaster look and feel at a fraction of the price. It features Fender-designed alnico pickups that deliver a surprisingly authentic Jazzmaster sound – smooth and full, with plenty of bite when you need it. The vintage-inspired hardware, including the floating tremolo, gives you the same functionality and vibe as its higher-end counterparts.

The Squier Classic Vibe Jazzmaster also comes with the dual-circuit design, allowing you to dial in separate tones for rhythm and lead playing, just like the originals. Whether you’re playing dreamy, reverb-soaked surf rock or experimenting with layered soundscapes in indie rock, the Classic Vibe Jazzmaster can handle it all. It’s a great option for players who want to experience the Jazzmaster magic without breaking the bank.

PRS Custom 24

Artists Who Use It: Mikael Åkerfeldt (Opeth), Mark Holcomb (Periphery), Dustie Waring (Between the Buried and Me), Zach Myers (Shinedown), Tim Mahoney (311)

PRS Core Custom 24

The PRS Custom 24 might not have the decades-long history of a Strat or Les Paul, but it has quickly earned its place among the elite guitars of the world. First introduced in 1985, the Custom 24 is Paul Reed Smith’s flagship model and the guitar that put PRS on the map. Known for its impeccable craftsmanship, versatile tone, and stunning looks, the Custom 24 has become the go-to guitar for players who want a high-end instrument that can do it all.

With its beautifully carved figured maple top and sleek mahogany body, the Custom 24 is a work of art as much as it is a workhorse. Its dual humbuckers, paired with PRS’s famous 5-way blade switch, provide a range of tones that can cover everything from smooth jazz to heavy rock. The Custom 24’s “Pattern Thin” neck makes it a fast, comfortable guitar for both rhythm and lead playing, and the PRS tremolo system allows for smooth, expressive bends without sacrificing tuning stability.

Whether you’re a session player looking for versatility or a gigging musician who needs a guitar that can handle anything thrown its way, the PRS Custom 24 is a modern classic that delivers.

PRS SE Custom 24
For those who love the look and feel of a PRS but want something a bit more affordable, the PRS SE Custom 24 offers the same iconic design at a fraction of the price. The SE series is known for delivering PRS-quality craftsmanship and tone without the premium price tag, and the SE Custom 24 is no exception. With a mahogany body, maple top, and PRS-designed pickups, it’s got all the warmth, clarity, and versatility of its higher-end sibling.

Top Classic Electric Guitars and Guitar Brands

In addition to the above presentation of the best classic electric guitars of all time, the Gearank team has also produced a list, which we published on GuitarSite.com, of what we believe are currently the Best Electric Guitar Brands where we tell you the top 10 brands we like the most along with recommended budget and high-end guitars from each brand. And if you’re curious about acoustic guitars, you’ll probably want to look at the list our team also came up with on GuitarSite.com for The Best Acoustic Guitar Brands or the one we published here on Gearank.com based on analysis of acoustic guitar market sentiment rather than our personal opinions.