Choose the guitar that offers the best combination of playability, condition, total cost and purchase protection—not simply the one labeled new or used. A used guitar can be excellent value if it plays well and its condition is clear; a new one may be the simpler choice when you want known history and warranty terms. Try the specific instrument when possible, and include any setup or repair costs in your comparison.
Compare the whole purchase, not just the asking price
Start with the same model, or the closest equivalent you can find, in comparable playable condition. A used guitar’s price is meaningful only after you account for wear, repairs, modifications and setup. A new guitar is not necessarily ready to play perfectly: Fender notes that setup can change during shipping and advises trying guitars for comfort and sound. Fender’s electric-guitar buying guide recommends comparing instruments rather than deciding by label alone.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
| Factor | New guitar | Used guitar | What to compare |
|---|---|---|---|
| Condition | You can inspect the exact instrument, though it may still need setup adjustment. | Wear, repairs, modifications, storage and the accuracy of the seller’s description matter. | Test the exact guitar or request clear, detailed evidence of its condition. |
| Warranty | May qualify under the applicable warranty terms and purchase channel. | Do not assume the original manufacturer warranty transfers. | Confirm written terms, region, seller and who is eligible. |
| Total cost | Allow for a possible setup and any essentials not included. | Include setup, repair estimates and replacement parts if needed. | Compare the final cost for guitars in similar playable condition. |
| Value | The new price is a reference, not a universal measure of value. | Condition, rarity and desirability can change value substantially. | Compare the same model and condition; consult a specialist for vintage or unusual instruments. |
| Confidence and convenience | Purchase history and terms may be more straightforward. | Can be a strong option when inspection, seller history and price are convincing. | Check seller reputation, documentation, return window and whether you can test it. |
When a new guitar is the better choice
- You want an instrument with a clear purchase history and are comfortable paying the current new price.
- You prefer the possibility of applicable original-purchaser warranty coverage. Check the actual terms; coverage depends on brand, region and purchase channel.
- You cannot confidently assess a used guitar’s condition, and no experienced player or technician can help inspect it.
- The used example’s discount is too small to offset uncertain setup or repair costs.
Even when buying new, play the particular instrument if possible. Guitars of the same model can feel or sound different, and shipping or storage may affect setup.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
When a used guitar is worth considering
- You can inspect or test the specific guitar, or obtain detailed evidence from a trustworthy seller.
- The instrument plays comfortably and any wear or repair needs are understood.
- The price leaves room for setup or repair costs and still makes sense against comparable examples.
- The seller provides enough history and documentation to make modifications or repairs clear.
There is no reliable universal used-guitar discount or depreciation rate. Fender says that used and vintage value depends on factors including condition, rarity and desirability, and does not provide individual valuations. Compare current listings for the exact model and condition; seek specialist advice if an instrument may be vintage or rare. Fender’s used-instrument value FAQ explains those valuation limits.
#1 Best Overall
- One Squier Debut Series Stratocaster electric guitar, Frontman 10G amp, a padded gig bag, a strap, a cable, picks, a guitar stand, and an extra set of strings
- Designed by the most trusted name in guitar and backed by a 75-year legacy of quality and craftsmanship
- This beginner guitar kit is perfect for all ages, and it comes with a free 30-day subscription to Fender Play which includes free lessons to build your skills by playing the songs you love
- Designed for beginners, the Squier Debut Series features the iconic Fender Stratocaster in three signature colors--Black, Dakota Red and 2-Tone Sunburst; this guitar includes a super-comfortable "c" shaped neck, laurel fingerboard and thin, lightweight body for more comfort and playability.
- The Squier Debut Series Strat features three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching that offers a wide range of classic Strat tones
Inspect a used guitar before you buy
Arrange to see and play the exact instrument. If you are new to guitars, bring an experienced player or ask a guitar technician to inspect it. Gibson’s checklist covers the following issues in more detail: Gibson’s first-purchase guide.
Neck, truss rod and frets
- Check that the neck has workable relief and that the truss rod functions. Gibson describes checking relief by observing string clearance around the middle of the neck while fretting the low E string at the first and final frets. If you are unsure how to assess it, have a technician check it rather than forcing an adjustment.
- Look for substantial fret wear. A costly fret job can erase the apparent savings on a bargain.
Cracks, joints and hardware
- Look for cracks at the headstock, body joint and neck joint. On a set-neck guitar, inspect for signs of a faulty neck joint.
- For a bolt-on neck, check for excessive side-to-side play and stripped screw holes. Test that hardware works and stays stable.
- On an acoustic flat-top, some body bellying can be normal; pronounced bellying may indicate a history of excessive string tension.
Finish, modifications and authenticity
- Ask whether the finish is original and whether pickups, bridge or other parts have been changed. Refinishes can be difficult to identify, and modifications can affect value.
- Be cautious if a listing offers a guitar for a fraction of its typical price. For a high-value purchase, verify serial information and provenance with the manufacturer or a qualified specialist. Gibson provides guidance for reporting suspected counterfeit listings in its Help Center FAQ.
Play it in realistic conditions
Try the guitar standing and seated. For an electric guitar, listen through a suitable amp; check comfort, tuning stability and sound. Compare it with another guitar under similar conditions. A guitar that looks clean in photos may still have playability problems, while ordinary cosmetic wear may matter little if the instrument plays well and the price reflects its condition.
Rank #2
- [COMPLETE BEGINNER’S PACKAGE] Open the box, and you’re ready to play. This beginner kits includes the DST-80 electric guitar, custom 5W amplifier, durable gig bag, capo, strap, extra strings, digital tuner, amp cable, picks, and access to free online lessons from Donner to help you grow and shine.
- [CUSTOM AMP FOR ANY GROOVE] The custom 5W amp offers Classic and Overdrive settings, plus a 1/8" auxiliary input to connect with media players or CDs for jamming along. It’s your ultimate sidekick for practice, parties, or performances.
- [CLASSIC TONES, ENDLESS ZONES] With its classic SSS pickup configuration and 5-way switch, this electric guitar delivers bright, dynamic tones—ideal for country, blues, and funk, and perfect for exploring timeless sounds. Tone and volume controls add versatility to match any style, helping you unlock your inner guitar legend.
- [BUILT FOR COMFORT] This beginner electric guitar features an ultra-slim, comfortable C-shaped neck and satin matte finish, plus an easy-to-use circuit system, premium pickguard, and vintage tremolo bridge for a smooth, natural feel.
- [PERFECT FOR ALL, UNIQUE FOR YOU] Whether for kids or adult, beginner or seasoned, this all-inclusive set is the ideal way to kickstart your rock journey. Crafted from premium Manchurian Ash with an open matte finish, each guitar is uniquely beautiful and makes an unforgettable present for any occasion, from Christmas to birthdays.
Check warranty and return terms before paying
Warranty coverage is not automatically transferable with a used guitar. Fender states that its instrument warranties apply only to the original purchaser. It also says used, non-warranted Fender equipment can be repaired through its authorized service centers in the United States; that is repair availability, not a warranty. Other manufacturers and regions may have different policies, so confirm directly with the maker and seller. Fender’s used-instrument warranty FAQ describes its policy.
Recommended Free Tools
Ask the seller for the return window and any conditions in writing. Fender Certified Pre-Owned is one possible middle ground: Fender describes technician inspection, a certificate, a limited one-year warranty for the original purchaser and a 30-day return policy subject to terms. These are program-specific protections, not assurances that apply to used guitars generally. Review the current terms for the particular listing before buying. Fender’s Certified Pre-Owned information outlines the program.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- High Quality Material: Electric guitar beginner kits comes with Rosewood fingerboard, Canadian Maple neck with “C”shaped profile, Solid basswood body, environmental pickguard, and the frets are polished by hand, which are very round and greatly reduce the damage to your finger.
- S-S-H pickups: Beginner electric guitar set has two classic Single-coil pickups and One Humbucker pickup has strong stability and increased the thickness of the sound. S-S-H pickups is suitable for a Texas blues/rock sound.
- Electric Guitar Kit : The SAYHA 6-String electric guitar has a pickup selector, two tone controls, a volume control, and a whammy bar. The removable whammy bar produces tremolo effects, and the tremolo bridge system allows you to bend the pitch as you play.
- Rechargeable MINI Amplifier: Electric guitar with amp has two tone channels (Clean/Distortion). You can get different tones by adjusting GAIN and TONE, which is more suitable for playing different styles of music. The MINI Amplifier is not restricted by the venue, easy to carry and play anywhere.
- The SAYHA ultimate starter package has full-size guitar & all the parts & equipment that they need to rock straight out the box. A perfect choice for novice & intermediate players. In addition, electric guitar for beginner adults teens has an ergonomic ST design and a striking high-gloss finish, which makes you fondle admiringly.
Rank #4
- [H-S-S pickups] Donner electric guitar has two classic Single-coil pickups and one power 203S Humbucker pickup. 5 ways pickup switches and 2-tone & Volume controls for choosing. Suitable for both beginners and professionals.H-S-S pickups are not just perfect for a Texas blues/rock sound, but for other musical styles too
- [Canadian maple neck with “C”shaped profile] Donner DST-100 beginner electric guitar bundle uses purpleheart wood fingerboard, poplar solid body, Canadian maple neck with “C” shaped profile, classic design, comfortable fit
- [22 copper-nickel frets] The 39-inch electric guitar features a pick up selector switch, a volume knob, and two different tone knobs. 22 copper-nickel frets with fret position marks on the neck and top of the fingerboard, and also is smooth and friendly to your hands
- [Complete beginner package] Donner electric guitar set comes with a portable amplifier, 600D quality bag, capo, strap, extra string, digital tuner, amp cable, and picks. Also with online lessons, you can play guitar immediately when you receive them
- [Portable guitar MINI amplifier] The amp comes with an amp cord and has two-tone channels. Easy Control & Little Size & Tube Sound.1/8" auxiliary input jack for jam-along with media player or CD, 1/8" headphone output jack for silent practice
Rank #3
- One Squier Debut Series Stratocaster electric guitar – a perfect beginner guitar
- Designed by the most trusted name in guitar and backed by a 75-year legacy of quality and craftsmanship
- This beginner guitar comes with a 30-day subscription to Fender Play that includes lessons with thousands of instructional videos to build your skills by playing the songs you love, all with no additional cost.
- Designed for beginners, the Squier Debut Series Fender Stratocaster includes a super comfortable "c"-shaped neck, laurel fingerboard and thin, lightweight body for more comfort and playability.
- The Squier Debut Series Strat features three single-coil pickups with 5-way switching that offers a wide range of classic Strat tones, and the tremlolo bridge and removeable arm allows for excting string-bending effects.
Make the final comparison
- Find the new price and several current listings for the same model or a close equivalent.
- Compare only examples in similar condition and account for differences in included parts or documentation.
- Test each guitar for comfort, sound and playability when possible.
- For a used guitar, identify likely setup and repair work; get a technician’s estimate if the issue could be costly.
- Add those costs to the asking price, then compare warranty eligibility, return terms and seller confidence.
- Choose the instrument that best fits your needs at a total cost you can justify—not the one with the lowest sticker price.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
