Best Electric Guitar: Top 7 That Dominate in 2025

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Are you still searching for that perfect electric guitar that feels like an extension of your soul? 

Imagine strumming a guitar that looks spectacular and resonates with your unique playing style. Finding the best electric guitar isn’t just about brand names or flashy aesthetics—it’s about discovering a great guitar that enhances your musical journey. 

Whether you’re shredding solos or strumming serene melodies, the right guitar can elevate your performance. Dive into my list of the top 7 electric guitars that will dominate in 2025 and find your musical match. 

Ready to amp up your guitar game? Keep reading to hit the perfect note in your guitar search!

best electric guitar

What’s the Best Electric Guitar? The List at a Glance

Prefer a quick glance over a deep read today? No problem! I’ve handpicked my top choices for the best electric guitars, drawing from my experience.

If something catches your eye, you’ll find links below each recommendation for further exploration.

Best Overall

Fender Vintera II Telecaster

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Meet your new music-making soulmate: the Fender Vintera II Telecaster. This electric guitar isn’t just a tool; it’s your ticket to effortless playing and unrivaled sound. Dive into why it’s hailed as the best guitar for straight-up, no-nonsense jams.

Best for Beginners

Fender Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster

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Ready to kickstart your guitar journey? Say hello to your new best friend, the Fender Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster! This electric guitar is perfect for beginners and plays straight into your budding talents. Dive into why it’s hailed as the best guitar for those just starting their musical adventure.

Best Under 1K

PRS SE Custom 24

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Looking for an electric guitar that won’t break the bank but still delivers top-notch sound? Meet the PRS SE Custom 24, your ticket to sonic bliss without emptying your wallet! This Paul Reed Smith masterpiece is the ultimate sounding guitar under $1,000, offering unmatched quality and performance. Dive into why it’s the go-to choice for budget-conscious rockers who refuse to compromise on excellence.

Best on a Budget

Ibanez GRX70QA

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Looking to score big on an electric guitar without breaking the bank? Look no further than the Ibanez GRX70QA – your ultimate ticket to epic jams on a budget! Don’t miss out on the best electric guitar deals in town with this top-notch instrument that plays straight into your musical aspirations. Dive into why it’s hailed as the best electric guitar for those seeking quality without the hefty price tag.

Best for Metal

ESP LTD EC-1000S

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Ready to unleash some serious metal mayhem? Say hello to the ESP LTD EC-1000S – your ultimate weapon of choice for easily shredding through the heaviest riffs! This electric guitar isn’t just any guitar; it’s your ticket to dominating the metal scene with its straight-up, no-nonsense performance. Dive into why it’s hailed as the best metal guitar, and prepare to unleash your inner metal god!

Best 7-String

PRS SE Mark Holcomb

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Looking to add some serious depth to your sound? Meet the PRS SE Mark Holcomb – this ultimate 7-string electric guitar plays straight into your sonic aspirations! Elevate your music to new heights with unmatched sound quality and precision. Dive into why it’s hailed as the best 7-string guitar and prepare to take your playing to the next level.

Best Hollowbody

PRS SE Hollowbody II

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Looking to add some vintage flair to your music arsenal? Say hello to the PRS SE Hollowbody II – the ultimate hollow body electric guitar turning heads and stealing hearts everywhere! Dive into the world of Paul Reed Smith craftsmanship and discover why this new electric guitar is hailed as the best in its class. Get ready to embrace the rich, warm tones of hollow body guitars like never before!

electric guitars with graffiti background

Fender Vintera II Telecaster

Specifications

  • Body: Alder
  • Neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Slab Rosewood
  • Frets: 21
  • Scale: 25.5″
  • Pickups: Vintage-Style ’60s Single-Coil Tele
  • Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone
  • Hardware: Nickel/Chrome
  • Pickup Switching: 3-Position Blade

Key Benefits

  • Vintage Style: Dive into the vintage vibes of the Fender Vintera II Telecaster! It’s like stepping back in time to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll. With its classic design and timeless charm, this electric guitar is guaranteed to make heads turn and transport you straight to music’s heyday.
  • Single Coil Pickups: Get ready for some serious tone magic with the Fender Vintera II Telecaster’s single coil pickups. Whether you’re strumming sweet melodies or tearing it up with fiery solos, these pickups deliver that iconic Telecaster sound that musicians worldwide adore. Get ready to cut through the mix with precision and style!
  • Great Tone: Elevate your playing with the Fender Vintera II Telecaster’s unparalleled tone quality. This guitar has got you covered, from twangy country licks to gritty blues riffs. Plus, with responsive volume and tone pots, you have total control over sculpting your sound, ensuring it’s just right for any musical style or genre you’re into.
Best Overall

Pros

  • Classic design transports you to the golden age of music.
  • Crisp, clear tones cut through the mix effortlessly.
  • Responsive volume and tone pots for versatile sound shaping.

Cons

  • May be too traditional for those seeking modern features.

Get ready to rock with the Fender Vintera II Telecaster! Elevate your sound to legendary status with vintage vibes like never before. Click below to grab yours now and unleash your inner rockstar!

Squier Classic Vibe 50’s Stratocaster

Specifications

  • Body: Pine
  • Neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Maple
  • Frets: 21
  • Scale: 25.5″
  • Pickups: Fender-designed Alnico single-coil
  • Controls: Master Volume, Tone, Tone
  • Hardware: Nickel-plated
  • Pickup Switching: 5-position blade

Key Benefits

  • Great Value: Score big with the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster – it’s an absolute steal for lovers of vintage guitars! Enjoy top-notch craftsmanship and iconic Stratocaster tones without burning a hole in your wallet. Perfect for players of any skill level!
  • Sustain and Performance: Get ready for epic sustain and performance with the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster. Whether you’re jamming out to smooth jazz or cranking up the volume for heavy riffs, this guitar delivers crystal-clear tones and responsiveness that takes your playing to the next level.
  • Slim “C” Shaped Neck: Say hello to effortless playing with the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster’s slim “C” shaped neck. Perfect for those with smaller hands or who prefer a sleek profile, this neck design ensures seamless chord changes and buttery-smooth soloing, regardless of your playing style.
Best for Beginners

Pros

  • Ideal choice for new players seeking vintage tones at an affordable price.
  • Impressive sustain and clarity across genres, from jazz to heavy rock.
  • Comfortable slim “C” shaped neck for effortless chord changes and smooth soloing.

Cons

  • May lack some advanced features preferred by experienced players.

Get ready to rock with the Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster! Elevate your sound with vintage vibes and unbeatable performance. Ready to unleash your inner rockstar? Click below to grab yours and start jamming!

PRS SE Custom 24

Specifications

  • Body: Maple Top; Mahogany Body
  • Neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Rosewood
  • Frets: 24
  • Scale: 25″
  • Pickups: Proprietary Humbucker
  • Controls: Master volume, Master tone
  • Hardware: Nickel
  • Pickup Switching: 3-Way

Key Benefits

  • Excellent Build: Prepare to be wowed by the PRS SE Custom 24’s top-notch craftsmanship. This guitar is built like a tank, ensuring each note sings with quality and precision. It’s no wonder it’s among the best electric guitars out there!
  • Push-Pull Tonal Control: Get ready to play with your sound! With the PRS SE Custom 24’s push-pull tone knobs, you’ve got the power to fine-tune your tone from warm and mellow to bright and punchy. It’s like having a whole new world of sonic possibilities at your fingertips!
  • Stage Ready: Ready to take the stage by storm? The PRS SE Custom 24 has your back. Designed for performance, this guitar delivers consistent, reliable sound whether you’re playing in a cozy club or rocking out on a massive stage. Get ready to wow the crowd with every chord and riff!
Best Under 1K

Pros

  • Built like a tank, ensuring quality and precision with every note.
  • Fine-tune your tone with push-pull knobs for a world of sonic possibilities.
  • Designed for performance, delivering consistent, reliable sound on any stage.

Cons

  • Some players may find the set-in neck less comfortable for certain playing styles.

Ready to elevate your sound? Meet the PRS SE Custom 24 – your ticket to sonic greatness without breaking the bank! Don’t miss out on the ultimate guitar experience. Click below to grab yours and start rocking like never before!

Ibanez GRX70QA

Specifications

  • Body: Basswood Top; Poplar Body
  • Neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Jatoba
  • Frets: 22
  • Scale: 25.5″
  • Pickups: Infinity R (H); Infinity RS (S)
  • Controls: Master Volume, Tone
  • Hardware: Chrome
  • Pickup Switching: 5-position

Key Benefits

  • Variety of Finishes: Get ready to show off your style with the Ibanez GRX70QA’s stunning finishes. Whether you’re into bold solids or eye-catching maple tops, there’s something to match your vibe perfectly.
  • Plays Fast and Smooth: Feel the thrill of effortlessly playing your favorite songs with the Ibanez GRX70QA’s sleek neck and smooth fretboard. Whether you’re rocking out with lightning-fast solos or strumming along to your favorite tunes, this guitar delivers unbeatable speed and precision.
  • Tremolo Bridge: The Ibanez GRX70QA’s tremolo bridge takes your playing to new heights. Whether you’re adding subtle vibrato or going all-in with wild pitch bends, this bridge opens up a world of expressive possibilities, making every note count.
Best on a Budget

Pros

  • Perfect choice for budget-conscious players seeking versatility and style.
  • Effortless playing with a sleek neck profile and smooth fretboard.
  • Dive into expressive playing with the tremolo bridge’s versatile range of effects.

Cons

  • Some players may find the tremolo bridge requires frequent tuning adjustments.

Ready to take your music to the next level? Meet the Ibanez GRX70QA – your ticket to epic jams without breaking the bank! Don’t miss out on the ultimate guitar experience. Click below to grab yours and start rocking out today!

ESP LTD EC-1000S

Specifications

  • Body: Mahogany
  • Neck: 3-piece Mahogany
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Frets: 24
  • Scale: 24.75″
  • Pickups: Fluence Modern humbucker alnico
  • Controls: Volume 1, Volume 2, Master Tone
  • Hardware: Black
  • Pickup Switching: 3-Way

Key Benefits

  • Tune-o-matic Locking Bridge: Get ready for rock-solid tuning stability and precise intonation thanks to the ESP LTD EC-1000S’s Tune-o-matic locking bridge. No more worries about strings slipping out of tune mid-performance – this guitar keeps you locked in and ready to rock all night.
  • Push/Pull Tone Control: The ESP LTD EC-1000S’s push/pull tone control allows you to take full control of your tone. Whether you’re craving warm, vintage tones or bold, modern sounds, this feature gives you the flexibility to dial in your desired sound with ease, making it a top choice among the best electric guitars.
  • Smooth Playability: Experience effortless playability with the ESP LTD EC-1000S. With its sleek neck profile and smooth fretboard, this guitar offers a comfortable playing experience that allows you to glide through chords and shred through solos easily. Get ready to elevate your playing to new heights with this guitar that stands tall among all the guitars out there.
Best for Metal

Pros

  • Perfect for metalheads craving power and precision.
  • Rock-solid tuning stability with the Tune-o-matic locking bridge.
  • Versatile tone control for exploring a wide range of sounds.

Cons

  • Push/pull tone control can be overwhelming for beginners.

Ready to unleash your inner metal god? Meet the ESP LTD EC-1000S – your ultimate weapon for dominating the stage! Elevate your sound and conquer every riff with precision. Click below to grab yours and start shredding scales, licks, and solos like never before!

PRS SE Mark Holcomb

Specifications

  • Body: Maple Top; Mahogany Body
  • Neck: Maple
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Frets: 24
  • Scale: 26.5″
  • Pickups: Seymour Duncan Alpha/Omega humbucker
  • Controls: Master Volume, Master Tone
  • Hardware: Chrome; PRS String-Through Plate
  • Pickup Switching: 3-Way

Key Benefits

  • PRS Build Quality: Experience top-notch craftsmanship and attention to detail with the PRS SE Mark Holcomb. From the finest materials to precision construction, this guitar boasts PRS’s renowned build quality, ensuring reliability and longevity for years of playing enjoyment.
  • Mark Holcomb Signature Seymour Duncan: Dive into Mark Holcomb’s signature tone with the custom Seymour Duncan pickups on the PRS SE Mark Holcomb. These pickups are designed to capture every nuance of Mark’s playing style and deliver unparalleled clarity, articulation, and versatility.
  • PRS Plate Style: Stand out on stage with the PRS SE Mark Holcomb’s distinctive plate-style design. Featuring sleek lines and bold aesthetics, this guitar exudes modern elegance while paying homage to PRS’s rich heritage. Get ready to turn heads and make a statement with your new go-to guitar.
Best 7-String

Pros

  • Perfect for 7-string enthusiasts seeking top-tier craftsmanship and durability.
  • Unlock Mark Holcomb’s signature tone with custom Seymour Duncan pickups for unparalleled clarity and versatility.
  • Stand out on stage with the PRS SE Mark Holcomb’s unique plate-style design, blending modern elegance with PRS heritage.

Cons

  • The 7-string configuration may require some adjustment for players transitioning from 6-string guitars.

Ready to take your 7-string game to the next level? Meet the PRS SE Mark Holcomb – your gateway to unparalleled tone and style! Elevate your sound and make a statement on stage. Click below to make this beauty yours and unleash your musical potential!

PRS SE Hollowbody II

Specifications

  • Body: Maple
  • Neck: Mahogany
  • Fingerboard: Ebony
  • Frets: 22
  • Scale: 25″
  • Pickups: Proprietary Covered Humbucker
  • Controls: Magnetic volume Piezo/mix volume Master tone
  • Hardware: Nickel
  • Pickup Switching: 3-Way

Key Benefits

  • Dual PRS Humbucker: Experience unparalleled tone and versatility with the PRS SE Hollowbody II’s dual PRS humbuckers. Whether you’re craving warm, rich tones or bold, aggressive sounds, these pickups deliver premium quality and unmatched performance.
  • Separate Piezo/Mix and Magnetic-Only Outputs: The PRS SE Hollowbody II offers the best of both worlds with its separate piezo/mix and magnetic-only outputs. Whether you’re plugging into an amp or an acoustic amp, this guitar allows you to explore many sonic possibilities.
  • Individual Volume Controls for Piezo and Magnetic: Take complete control of your sound with the PRS SE Hollowbody II’s individual volume controls for piezo and magnetic pickups. Whether you’re blending acoustic and electric tones or dialing in your preferred balance, these controls allow for precise customization, making it one of the best electric guitars for players seeking premium instruments.
Best Hollowbody

Pros

  • Perfect for players seeking a versatile hollowbody guitar with premium tone and performance.
  • Enjoy the flexibility of separate piezo and magnetic outputs for a wide range of sonic options.
  • Individual volume controls offer precise customization for blending acoustic and electric tones seamlessly.

Cons

  • Limited color and finish options available compared to other models.

Ready to elevate your sound? Meet the PRS SE Hollowbody II – your ticket to premium tone and versatility! Unleash your creativity and explore new sonic horizons. Click below to snag yours and start making music magic today!

What is an Electric Guitar?

An electric guitar is like the cooler, louder cousin of the acoustic guitar. 

While acoustic guitars produce sound solely through the vibration of their strings, electric guitars rely on electronic amplification to make some serious noise. Picture this: you plug your electric guitar into an amplifier, crank up the volume, and suddenly, you’re rocking out like a rockstar. 

It’s like magic but with more power chords and distortion. 

Now, when it comes to finding the best electric guitar for you, it’s all about personal preference. Some people swear by the classic Fender Stratocaster or Gibson Les Paul, while others prefer the sleek modern designs of brands like Ibanez or PRS. 

Ultimately, the best electric guitar is the one that feels right in your hands and produces the sound you’ve been dreaming of. So, whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just picking up a guitar for the first time, dive into the world of electric guitars and prepare to unleash your inner rock god.

How Can an Electric Guitar Benefit You?

So, you’re thinking about picking up an electric guitar? Let me tell you, the benefits are endless. 

First off, electric guitars open up a whole new world of sound. With the proper amp and effects, you can dial in any tone you can imagine, from smooth blues to face-melting metal. 

Plus, they’re often easier to play than acoustic guitars, especially for beginners. 

Imagine you’re strumming away on a sleek Fender Stratocaster, and suddenly, you hit that sweet spot on the bridge pickup. The sound is crisp, clear, and oh-so-satisfying. 

That’s the beauty of electric guitars—they’re versatile, fun, and downright addictive. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, investing in one of the best electric guitars can take your playing to new heights. 

Trust me, once you plug in and feel that rush of electricity, you’ll wonder why you waited so long to join the club.

Buyers Guide: How We Conducted Our Research

When doing our research to find the best products for each category, we determined them using these factors:

  • Pricing: How much did each product cost
  • Features and Benefits: What were the best features of each product?
  • Negatives: What was missing from each product
  • Support or Refund: Do they offer a community, support, or refund policy?

Final Thoughts

electric guitars with musical thought bubbles

So, there you have it – the lowdown on the best electric guitars! 

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, finding the best electric guitar for you is like discovering your musical soulmate. From the timeless classics to the latest innovations, there’s a guitar out there with your name on it. 

So pick up that axe, plug in, and let the magic happen. Because when you play guitar, it’s not just about making music – it’s about unleashing your creativity, expressing yourself, and connecting with something deeper. 

And when you find that perfect guitar that sounds great and feels right in your hands, there’s no feeling quite like it. 

So, whether you’re jamming with friends, rocking out on stage, or just strumming away in your bedroom, remember: the best electric guitars are the ones that inspire you to play your heart out and make some unforgettable music.

FAQs

electric guitars with bold question marks

What guitar does Metallica use?

They’ve been known to wield some serious firepower onstage.

From James Hetfield’s iconic ESP Vulture to Kirk Hammett’s trusty ESP KH-2, these metal legends have a taste for guitars that can handle the heat. With their signature sound and killer riffs, Metallica proves that it’s not just about the brand – it’s about finding the right axe to unleash your inner metalhead.

What guitar does Johnny Depp play?

When it comes to Johnny Depp and his electric guitars, he’s often seen rocking out with various models, reflecting his eclectic tastes. 

Depp’s guitar collection is as diverse as his film roles, from classic Fender Stratocasters to vintage Gibson Les Pauls. However, one of his most notable guitars is the Gibson Les Paul Custom, with which he’s been spotted numerous times. 

Known for its rich tone and timeless design, the Les Paul Custom perfectly complements Depp’s musical style and adds a touch of rockstar flair to his performances.

What guitar did Kurt Cobain use?

Ah, the guitar that became synonymous with grunge legend Kurt Cobain – the Fender Mustang

This iconic electric guitar was Cobain’s weapon of choice during Nirvana’s heyday, delivering the raw, distorted sound that defined their music. With its short scale length and unique tonal characteristics, the Mustang perfectly suited Cobain’s frenetic playing style and added to the band’s signature sound. 

Today, the Fender Mustang symbolizes Cobain’s legacy, inspiring countless musicians to pick up their own guitar and rock out with passion and intensity.

What guitar does Slash play?

When it comes to legendary guitarists, Slash is undoubtedly one of the greats – and he’s often seen wielding his trusty Gibson Les Paul

This iconic electric guitar has been a staple of Slash’s sound since his days with Guns N’ Roses, delivering the rich, robust tones that have become his trademark. With its timeless design and unmatched playability, the Gibson Les Paul is the perfect instrument for Slash to unleash his electrifying solos and rock out with unrivaled style and flair.

What guitar did Jimi Hendrix use?

Few names loom as large when it comes to electric guitars as Jimi Hendrix’s—and his weapon of choice was the Fender Stratocaster

This iconic instrument became an extension of Hendrix’s soulful, innovative playing style, delivering the otherworldly tones that defined his legendary sound. With its smooth playability and distinctive tone, the Fender Stratocaster allowed Hendrix to push the boundaries of music and captivate audiences worldwide. 

Today, the Stratocaster remains a symbol of Hendrix’s enduring legacy, inspiring generations of musicians to pick up their own guitar and channel his spirit of creativity and freedom.

What guitar did Eddie Van Halen play?

When it comes to electric guitars, Eddie Van Halen is synonymous with innovation and virtuosity – and his weapon of choice was the iconic “Frankenstrat.”

This custom-built guitar, pieced together by Van Halen himself, featured a unique combination of parts and modifications that gave it its distinctive sound and appearance. With its powerful humbucker pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo system, the Frankenstrat allowed Van Halen to push the boundaries of guitar playing and redefine the possibilities of rock music.

Today, this legendary instrument stands as a testament to Van Halen’s groundbreaking talent and enduring influence on the world of electric guitars.

What guitar does Dave Grohl play?

When it comes to electric guitars, Dave Grohl’s weapon of choice is often the Gibson ES-335

This classic semi-hollowbody guitar has been a mainstay in Grohl’s arsenal, delivering the warm, versatile tones that have become synonymous with his playing style. Whether he’s shredding with the Foo Fighters or jamming with other rock legends, Grohl’s ES-335 adds a touch of vintage flair to his signature sound. 

With its timeless design and rich tonal character, the Gibson ES-335 is the perfect instrument for Grohl to unleash his musical creativity and rock out with passion and intensity.

Is Fender or Gibson better?

When it comes to electric guitars, both brands have loyal followings and iconic instruments. 

Fender is known for its bright, twangy tones and legendary models like the Stratocaster and Telecaster, while Gibson boasts a rich, warm sound epitomized by the Les Paul and SG. Ultimately, the answer comes down to personal preference and playing style. 

Whether you’re drawn to Fender’s classic designs or Gibson’s timeless craftsmanship, the best guitar for you is the one that inspires you to pick it up and play your heart out.

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