
Cheap guitars offer musicians and enthusiasts an affordable option to start playing. In order to maintain their affordability, these guitars often compromise on materials, hardware, and quality control. Despite these trade-offs, they still deliver decent playability and serve as great starter guitars for beginners or budget-conscious players.
In the last few years, the landscape of low priced guitars has transformed dramatically. This remarkable shift mainly stems from advancements in manufacturing processes. Innovative mass-production techniques and practical material choices contribute to making budget-friendly guitars.
Today, guitarists can enjoy an instrument that sounds and feels nice without emptying their wallets. With more people turning to the musical arts, it’s safe to say that music and enthusiasts are experiencing a new high, as this NAMM report suggests.
“We see signs across the board of a stabilizing music products industry, with the pandemic boom and bust of at-home instruments and gear leveling out the inventory issues, live touring demand leveling, and school music making its full return.” source: NAMM2024 Global Report
And what better way to learn music than to invest in a new cheap guitar?
So, before you run to your local Guitar Center, in this article, we’ll first answer what makes affordable guitars cheap. Can they compare to flagship brand models, and if so, is having one really worth it?
What Makes Affordable Guitars So Cheap?
1. Manufacturing Advances: How Technology Changed the Game
Mass Production
One of the key reasons cheap guitars have improved in quality is mass production. Advancements in manufacturing and supply chain management now allow manufacturers to produce better instruments at lower prices.
For instance, most manufacturers nowadays use CNC machines. These machines, which are essentially automated cutting tools, allow manufacturers to carve guitar bodies and necks with incredible precision.
This automation reduces labor costs and speeds up production, making it easier to offer guitars at lower prices without sacrificing too much quality.
Mass-produced guitars, however, are typically made by factory workers, instead of luthiers. These workers handle specific steps in the production process. In contrast, boutique guitars are typically made by a guitar luthier from start to finish.
For example, in mass production, one person can be in charge of the fretting, painting, buffing, and so on. This speeds up the production time and cuts costs because the job doesn’t require too much attention to detail, like in luthier/boutique-made guitars.
Outsourcing to Low-Cost Countries
While labor costs differ based on where the guitar is made, quality no longer hinges on the country of origin.
US-made guitars tend to be more expensive due to higher labor costs in the United States. However, many guitars made overseas share the same materials and components as their pricier American counterparts.
Countries like China, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Korea often produce guitars of almost the same quality as the US. Eventually, the price difference frequently comes down to labor expenses rather than material quality.
However, this might not always be the case.
“According to the 2022 Reshoring Institute report, โChina may no longer be the cheapest and best alternative,โ suggesting that other countries like India, or even US neighbor country Mexico, are becoming more viable for low-cost guitar production.โ
The article also mentioned that “the difference between wages is shrinking and the premium that customers are willing to pay for a โMade in USAโ label is growing.”
So, we might see more cheap guitars made in the US in the future. This can lead to more quality-made options for guitarists.
2. Material Choices: Quality Doesnโt Always Have To Be Pricy
Volume and Production Costs
Non-US manufacturing often reduces labor and overhead costs. This allows companies to invest less in quality control and craftsmanship. This can lead to inconsistent tonal quality; however, cheaper wood may not resonate with higher-quality options.
Cheaper Tonewoods
The best acoustic guitar and electric guitars, with an affordable price, often cut costs on tonewoods. It is done by utilizing less expensive or alternative materials. These wood substitutes may not match traditional tonewoods used in higher-end models. Despite that, they can come close to their quality for a fraction of the cost.
- Sapele & Nato: Sapele and Nato are more affordable hardwood substitutes for the typical mahogany body. Sapele is a durable wood with a balanced tonal profile. Nato, frequently marketed as “Eastern Mahogany, shares some characteristics with Mahogany but comes at a lower price point.
- Agathis: This wood is sometimes used for guitar bodies, especially in electric guitars. Agathis is a less expensive alternative to mahogany and is often used in entry-level guitars due to its affordability.
- Basswood: Commonly found in budget electric guitars, basswood is lightweight and inexpensive. While it lacks the tonal complexity of higher-end woods, it offers a balanced sound suitable for beginners.
- Poplar: Used primarily in cheap electric guitars, poplar is a budget-friendly option that offers decent sound quality. Though it may not provide the same warmth or depth as more traditional woods, such as mahogany.
- Laminated Woods: Many budget guitars utilize laminated woods for their tops, backs, and sides instead of solid woods. A laminate made of plywood or a combination of cheaper woods can significantly reduce costs. Although, it may compromise resonance and tonal richness.
- Lesser-Known Spruce Varieties: Guitars may also feature lesser-known varieties of spruce that are cheaper to source. Engelmann spruce or other regional types are some options. But, they might not provide the same dynamic range or tonal clarity as Sitka spruce.
- Sustainable or Composite Materials: Some manufacturers are turning to sustainable or composite materials due to environmental issues. While these alternatives are environmentally friendly, they may not always replicate the tonal qualities of traditional woods. Martin Guitar, for example, has offered models built with wood certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Builders also have sought alternative tonewoods, or, in some instances, theyโve used such synthetics as carbon fiber. While these materials can be more cost-effective, their tonal quality can vary and may not always match traditional woods.
These alternatives allow manufacturers to offer the best budget acoustic electric guitar or guitars in general without sacrificing too much in tone or durability.
Budget Hardware and Electronics
Players often upgrade hardware themselves later. This is especially true with cheap guitars. This customizability adds to the appeal of affordable guitars and further reduces the need to buy a more expensive guitar with premium parts like tuners or pickups installed.
- Tuners: Stock tuners on cheap guitars do not offer features, such as locking functions or exceptional tuning stability. But, they still perform adequately for their intended purpose. This simplicity contributes to keeping the overall cost of budget guitars accessible.
- Pickups: “Brand Name Pickups Equate to Cost, Not Always Quality.” Guitar pickups, which are a crucial part of a guitar’s sound, can inflate costs depending on their brand name. Pickups like Seymour Duncan or Lollar are generally expensive. However, many cool cheap guitars use replicas or lower-end alternatives like Duncan Designed pickups. These pickups provide similar tones at a fraction of the price.
A quick tip for Squier users. A Strat pickup height can be adjusted to get more tone out of it.
3. Quality Control: Ensuring Performance
Less Rigid Quality Control Standards
Cheaper guitars may undergo less stringent quality control processes compared to luthier-made models. This means minor flaws or inconsistencies may still slip through on mass-produced guitars today.
Although, thanks to modern mass-production techniques, consistency has greatly improved. Now budget guitars are far more reliable than they used to be.
Impact of Loose Quality Control on Playability
Many budget guitars require some setup adjustments. Tweaking the string action or adjusting the pickup height allows it to reach optimal playability.
Although, even with occasional flaws, most cheap guitars today are playable straight out of the box.
4. Direct Selling
Direct selling bypasses traditional retail channels. It allows manufacturers to minimize overhead costs incurred on retail markups.
Companies can offer lower prices without sacrificing profit margins by selling to consumers directly online. This mode of selling also fosters a closer relationship between manufacturers and customers.
5. Design and Features
Simplified Designs
To keep production costs low, good cheap guitars tend to feature simplified designs. These guitars prioritize function over form. Even though they may lack the fancy finishes or custom details found on higher-end guitars.
6. Brand Name
Lower Costs for Lesser-Known Brands
Branding plays a significant role in determining cheap guitar price. Big names like Fender and Gibson carry a premium price tag due to their legacy and reputation.
Thankfully, sub-brands like Squier and Epiphone offer more affordable versions for budget-conscious buyers. These cheap guitar brands exist not only to provide affordable options without diminishing the prestige of their parent brands, Fender and Gibson.
Positioning these sub-brands as entry-level alternatives allows companies to maintain high prices for their flagship models.
Meanwhile, lesser-known brands such as Glarry, Harley Benton, and Michael Kelly also provide great value. These cheap guitar brands, familiar to most guitar players, are easily identifiable and offer quality guitars at lower prices.
However, they don’t carry the same brand-name markup as the other expensive guitars.
How Playability of Cheap Guitars Compares to Higher-End Models
Despite the lower price, the best cheap guitar brands play remarkably well. These guitars often have excellent neck profile and fretwork.
Thanks to the precision of modern production techniques, such as CNC cutting modern cheap guitars offer smooth playability comparable to higher-end models.
While high-end guitars have superior playability, budget models are more than adequate for beginners and even seasoned players looking for a backup instrument.
Why Buy Affordable Guitars?
Low-priced guitars are perfect for beginners who want to learn without spending much. Modern budget guitars offer high levels of quality and playability. This makes them ideal for players who want a reliable instrument to get started on, and not go spend a fortune on practically a hobby.
Even experienced musicians may find value in good cheap guitars. Some may prefer budget-friendly guitars for gigging or as a backup (though most of them are already modded guitars). Others may use them for DIY projects since modifying and upgrading, an acoustic, electric, or a cheap bass guitar has a smaller risk factor.
Tips for Buying Cheap Guitars
Criteria | Cheap Guitar | Expensive Guitar | Key Considerations |
---|---|---|---|
Price | Affordable, typically under $500 | Can range from $1,000 to several thousand dollars | Cheap guitars are easier on the budget, especially for beginners or casual players. |
Purpose | Ideal for beginners, practice, and learning | Suited for professional use, recording, and live performance | Consider what you need the guitar forโpractice and learning vs. professional gigs. |
Build Quality | Basic construction, often with cost-effective materials | High-end craftsmanship, premium tonewoods, and components | Expensive guitars offer superior build quality, but the best cheap guitars today are better made than ever before. |
Playability | Sufficient for most beginners; decent setup required | Excellent playability out of the box, often hand-finished | Cheap guitars may need adjustments (e.g., action setup) but are generally playable and good for learning. |
Aesthetic Appeal | Basic finishes, standard designs | Premium finishes, unique designs, and custom options | If looks aren’t a priority, the best and cheap guitar can still offer a clean, attractive appearance. |
Tone | Basic but functional, may lack depth and complexity | Rich, nuanced tone with superior sustain and resonance | While high-end guitars offer superior tone, modern budget guitars often have decent cheap guitar pickups and electronics. |
Durability | Built to last with standard use, but may wear quicker | Designed for longevity, with higher-grade hardware and finishes | If the guitar will be used heavily or in various environments, consider durability vs. cost. |
Upgradability | Easy to modify and upgrade components (pickups, tuners) | Less need for upgrades; already equipped with top-tier components | Cheap guitars can be upgraded (i.e., pickups or tuners), improving their performance incrementally. |
Resale Value | Lower re-sale value, but low initial cost mitigates loss | Higher resale value, though depreciation still occurs | Resale value is less of a concern with cheap guitars; theyโre a smaller initial investment. |
Technology and Features | Basic electronics, fewer built-in features | Advanced features, such as multiple pickup configurations, high-end electronics | Consider whether you need advanced features or if a basic setup meets your needs. |
Investment | Easy to replace if damaged | High financial investment, prized possession | A cheap guitar is great for experimentation without the fear of ruining a valuable instrument. |
Learning Curve | Often more forgiving for beginners, easier to experiment with | Demands more skill to fully utilize potential | A cheap guitar is often more forgiving for new players, offering a stress-free learning experience. |
Versatility | Suitable for a wide range of genres, with no focus on specific style | May be tailored to specific genres or playing styles | Cheap guitars offer versatility, especially for players still exploring their musical identity. |
Availability | Widely available in many music stores and online retailers | May require special orders or custom builds | Cheap guitars are easy to find and purchase, making them more accessible for beginners or those in remote areas. |
Conclusion
Cheap guitars have never been this accessible and reliable. Mass production techniques have improved to the point where cheap guitars now offer better quality and are closer to that of expensive brands.
With affordable materials and guitar-building technology, more quality cheap guitar instruments are now accessible to many.
While they may lack fancy hardware, electronics, or finishes, they offer excellent value for the price.
These guitars provide a nice instrument to play. They are a great option if you’re a beginner or experienced player seeking for a decent quality instrument without breaking the bank.
FAQs About Cheap Guitars
What Makes Cheap Guitar Brands So Affordable?
- Why are Glarry Guitars so Cheap? These guitars are affordable primarily due to their mass-production approach and cost-effective materials. They often employ lower-grade woods and simpler hardware, which helps keep costs down. Additionally, by selling directly to consumers online, Glarry eliminates middlemen, further reducing prices. This makes for great cheap guitars fit for beginners and casual players.
- Why are Danelectro Guitars So Cheap? These slightly offset guitars are known for their unique retro designs and tones. It is achieved through the use of cheaper materials like semi-hollow Masonite and plywood for their bodies. They also utilize simple electronics and hardware.
- Why are Dean Guitars So Cheap? It offers budget-friendly models produced in countries with lower labor costs, such as China and Indonesia. Their mass production methods allow for reduced prices per unit. Despite their affordability, Dean guitars maintain striking designs and are ready to play right out of the box.
- Why are Epiphone Guitars So Cheap? As Gibson’s sub-brand, it offers a lower-cost alternative by using less expensive wood and components. It is primarily produced in Asia. Epiphone guitars provide excellent value for those seeking classic electric guitar designs (Les Paul) without the hefty price tag. Even though they may still not match Gibson’s craftsmanship, they are still quite good. You can get even more sonic mileage from these guitars if you swap out the pickups with a better humbucker set.
- Why are Gretsch Guitars So Cheap? Gretsch guitars, particularly the Electromatic and Streamliner series, are mass-produced in Asia. This helps reduce manufacturing costs. They often use more economical woods and simplified hardware while maintaining their signature vintage styling and sound. This makes them appealing to those looking for classic tones at a lower price.
- Why are Harley Benton Guitars So Cheap? Harley Benton is Thomann’s in-house brand. It is known for its direct-to-consumer sales model that eliminates retail markups. These guitars are produced in lower-cost manufacturing locations. They offer amazing value despite their affordability, making them a popular budget-friendly option.
- Why are Ibanez Guitars Cheap? Ibanez achieves lower prices through mass production in countries like Indonesia and China. They utilize economical materials for their budget models. Despite this, they focus on maintaining high playability, and offering hardware choices like traditional triple single coil (SSS) or having a humbucker on the bridge, also called HSS configuration. This makes them a favored choice for beginners and intermediate shred players. Note that advanced techniques like dive bombs will be a bit clanky on cheaper hardware.
- Why are Jackson Guitars so Cheap? Their JS series is manufactured in cost-effective regions like China and Indonesia. They utilize affordable materials and simpler construction methods. Despite the lower cost, they retain the signature look and features that appeal to a lot of metal and rock players.
- Why are Michael Kelly Guitars so Cheap? Michael Kelly guitars are produced in lower-cost manufacturing areas. They are designed to blend aesthetics with affordability. They focus on efficient production and direct sales. This way, they can offer stylish budget instruments that appeal to those who value both appearance and performance.
- Why are Squier Guitars Cheap? Squier, Fender’s budget brand, offers affordable models. It has more economical materials, components, and is produced in Asia. It is made through mass production methods. This allows Squier guitars to provide good quality for beginners looking for a classic vibe Fender design at a lower price.
Where Can I Buy a Cheap Guitar?
Online marketplaces like Amazon, Thomann, eBay, and Reverb offer some of the best cheap guitar brands. For local options, check music stores or big-box retailers like Guitar Center, or Sweetwater. Musician’s Friend, which often has sales and used gear is also a good option. If you want to know other places where to find cheap guitars or where to get cheap guitars, some brands, like Glarry and Harley Benton, sell directly on their websites, offering even lower prices.
About the Author and Contributors
Lead Author & Researcher
Contributors
Jerome Arcon โ Update and Supplemental Writing
Jason Horton โ Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Logos and original guitar photographs were sourced from the respective guitar brands, and the image was created for Gearank.com.
Great article. In 2010 at Asheville NC store I traded a one owner 1975 Martin D18 even-steven for a new Taylor 310 ce. This article explains why my computer router made Taylor is worth maybe $1000.oo and the martin may be worth $2000.oo. However, the Martin needed $500.oo neck reset so I yam ok with the disparity. Store never did reset the neck…took 2 yrs to sell it at $1800.oo.
I have a “no name” Spector bass copy, an Epiphone Thunderbird and a Crafter Cruiser PB350 Precision bass copy. I enjoy playing all of these basses and have used them all in gigs. I would defy anyone to tell the difference between the sound of these in a blind test against the real thing, especially once they’re plugged into FX and EQd at the amp.
We were in cologne at the music store to buy a strat. While I have small hands I was not able to get the right strat. Also none of the personal were available to help us. So I stumbled at a clone jack@daniels from Korea. I picked it up and was amazed how easy the grip was around the neck. So the decision was easy, a bonus was also the price of the instrument.
Glad to hear it was a success. I bought quite a few guitars from Guitar Center. When I really needed help about choosing a guitar, they could not help. Luckily, I intuitively found 2 guitars that spoke to me. I too, wanted help regarding finger size and neck width etc. I am going to say something here. Had many guitar teachers. All could play decent, but teaching ? No. I stumbled upon a man I have known 25 years who played. I get between 60 minutes and 90 minutes of lesson. He watches every finger move I make the entire time. He is unreal. He did not want any money for this. I decided to pay him though. He is a genius ! These are far and few in between. My last teacher for 30 minute lessons could not stop looking at his watch and squirming in his seat.