Gearank

The Affinity Stratocaster HSS is an affordable licensed Stratocaster with a humbucker in the bridge position, and distinct finish options that make it visually standout among similarly priced guitars.

Many manufacturers are switching to using poplar wood for the body of entry-level guitars, and this model is no exception.

The poplar body is paired with a maple neck topped by a 21-fret Indian Laurel fingerboard, with a narrow 1.598" nut width that many prefer.

Giving the guitar its voice are two singlecoil pickups for the neck and middle position, and a humbucker for the bridge position which allows this guitar to better handle high-gain tones in the bridge position.

Everything else about the guitar follows the expected Strat design.

Specifications

• Body: Poplar
• Finish: Montego Black Metallic, Olympic White, Race Green, Slick Silver
• Bridge: 6-Saddle Synchronized Tremolo
• Pickups: (HSS) 1 x Standard Humbucker, 2 x Standard Strat Single-coil
• Neck: Maple
• Scale Length: 25.5”
• Fingerboard: Indian Laurel
• Fingerboard Radius: 9.5”
• Frets: 21 Medium Jumbo
• Nut Width: 1.598”
• Controls: 1 x Volume, 2 x Tone
• Pickup Selector: 5-way Blade Switch

Pros

Users are initially drawn to the Squier Affinity Strat HSS because of aesthetics, and this attraction grew stronger once they actually got their hands on it. There are many positive reports pertaining to its fretwork and playability, describing it as easy on the hands. There are also many who are satisfied with its tone. Note that most of the reviews come from students, but there are some experienced musicians who recommend it as a good value guitar to start with.

Cons

There are some who report that keeping the guitar in tune is an issue, prompting others to recommend swapping out the strings asap to alleviate the problem. Others point to having the guitar setup properly to improve your experience with it.

Overall

If you want nothing less than the best rated HSS guitar in the sub $500 price range, then this is for you.

Unfortunately this model is no longer available new in stores, however you can see excellent alternatives in our guide to The Best Electric Guitars Under $500.