Best Beginner Electric Guitars

Both are full-size electrics a beginner will not outgrow in a month. The Yamaha undercuts the Squier on the Sweetwater price checked, and its humbucker adds heavier tones; the Squier is the classic three-single-coil Strat layout. You still need an amp - see the practice amps guide. Editorial shortlist based on verified price/specs only, not hands-on testing.

ILLUSTRATION

Illustration - AI-generated, not a photo of the exact product.

Starter

Yamaha PAC012 Pacifica

Beginners wanting humbucker + single-coil versatility in one guitar

$219.99

Manufacturer/retailer list price (not an Amazon price): Sweetwater listing (Yamaha US shop listed $279.99 the same day - retailer prices differ) - checked 2026-10-17. Confirm before buying.

Single-coil + humbucker pickup layout (per Sweetwater listing)maple neck

View at Sweetwater

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ILLUSTRATION

Illustration - AI-generated, not a photo of the exact product.

Starter

Squier Sonic Stratocaster

Beginners wanting a classic Strat shape and versatile single-coil tones

$249.99

Manufacturer/retailer list price (not an Amazon price): Fender product page (regular price) - checked 2026-10-17. Confirm before buying.

25.5in scaleslim C neckthin lightweight body3 single-coil pickupstremolo bridge

View at Fender

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All gear guides - Starter checklist