Are you tired of your good ol' classical guitar or beginner guitar and want to go on to the next level?
For you, it’s not a question of switching to the ukulele, folk guitar, classical guitar, bass guitar, gypsy guitar or acoustic guitar. The electric guitar is made for you - you are feeling it!
Key Takeaways
- Electric guitars in Ireland can cost anywhere from €160 to over €1500, depending on brand, features, and usage.
- Beginner models like the Squier Stratocaster or Epiphone Les Paul offer excellent value with prices around €200–€300.
- Don’t forget about accessories like amps, cases, cables, and strings. These add to the total cost but are essential.
- Used guitars are a great budget option, with many platforms like DoneDeal and Facebook Marketplace offering quality deals.
Introducing the Electric Guitar
Accompanied by a guitar amplifier, you can play the electric guitar and imitate your greatest idols (Jimi Hendrix, Keith Richards, Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana ...) in your apartment or on stage to be among the best electric guitarists.
But before you can proudly pretend to be a rockstar, the first step of buying a guitar (and its accessories) is essential.
Often seen as overpriced and inaccessible, the electric guitar price, whatever it might be is more often than not a very good investment. Many solutions exist that will allow you to acquire an electric guitar at a very advantageous price.
When it comes to selecting the guitar, there are various factors you should keep in mind. First and foremost, it's important to understand your goals as a guitarist.
Are you just starting out? Looking to learn the basics. Are you an experienced player aiming to enhance your skills? This will help determine which type of guitar would be most suitable for you.
On top of all this, you will also have to consider your playing style. Do you lean more towards electric guitars? This choice will significantly influence the sound and tone that you can achieve.
Flea markets, in-store or online… Choosing and buying a guitar is a real quest! Whether you're left-handed or right-handed, prefer Gibson or Fender, want a Sunburst or Tremolo, you'll surely be able to find the right electric guitar for you!
So, buckle up. Let's think through ways to get your hands on an axe with the best fingerboard, pickups, and playability, the design you want - with a deep cutaway or a groovy headstock - and from the best guitar brands out there.
After finding your perfect guitar, all you have to do is buy a few scores or tablatures, and you will soon be on your way to playing your favourite tracks.
The Average Price of an Electric Guitar
Playing an instrument like the guitar is relatively affordable. It is not necessary to spend all of your money to obtain a quality instrument that will meet your needs.
The same goes for the electric guitar. We're looking at beginner electric guitars; you ain't going to be going for a Fender custom, a Gibson custom, or a top-end guitar.
Online, whether it’s on Amazon or Guitar Center, it is, rather, possible to buy an electric guitar. However, the price can differ depending on whether it includes essential accessories needed to use the electric guitar, such as:
- the amp
- jack cables
- picks
- a gig bag
- other things including spare electric guitar strings and other tools to help you maintain your new musical instrument.
Similar prices can be found in stores.
When considering buying a guitar, one of the things to think about is your budget. Guitars can vary greatly in price so it's essential to set a budget that matches what you can afford. If you're new to playing, it might be an idea to start with an affordable option. On the other hand, if you have experience and are willing to invest more, you could go for a higher-end instrument.
You should keep in mind that the price doesn't always dictate quality. There are priced guitars available that offer excellent sound and playability. Inexpensive electric guitars aren't always from a reputable brand and can be damaged very quickly.
They might come with faulty guitar pickups and an uneven fretboard. To get an electric guitar that lasts over time, it’s better to spend somewhere between €160 and €200 on your first electric guitar.
Your skill level should also be taken into account when making your decision. If you're just starting out, it might be beneficial to choose a guitar that's easy to play and gentle on your fingers. If you've been playing for years and have developed techniques, you may want a guitar that provides versatility and features.
Here is a list of some of the most popular models of electric guitars to help you make a more informed decision when deciding on the right choice for you!
You can sometimes find an electric guitar set with accessories to go with the instrument at a low price point, but this isn’t always the case.
You will have to purchase an amp if you don’t want to play the guitar without sound. No sound won’t help you become a rockstar.
The price range of an amp varies as much as the price of electric guitars. You can find amps from €50 to €800+. Again, the price will depend on what you are looking for. Some amps are more suited for the stage while others will be good enough for your personal studio. However, it’s recommended that you don’t go below €60-€80 for this kind of accessory.
But when it comes to buying an electric guitar, you also need to think about its protection and your comfort. Do not forget the guitar case, the strap, and the support. Everything needed to become a real musician!
Buying these guitar accessories second-hand will lower the cost...
It's also worth keeping in mind that if you go to a music shop, you are more likely to get a deal that includes a guitar case and amp and any wires which you may need for better value than if you buy them separately online or otherwise.
Why Choose an Electric Guitar?
You can enjoy the electric guitar at any age! And buying one is not a waste of money.
I personally own three different guitars and many people wonder why I have so many instruments for the same practice.
What can an electric guitar give you more than the other guitars that you already have?
Each guitar is made for different styles. After purchasing a classical guitar, you can play the best Beethoven tunes, but it becomes more complicated when it comes to playing the songs of rock or metal bands. The same goes for acoustic guitars which are often ideal for folk.
Nonetheless, it’s quite possible to play Nirvana’s songs on nylon strings. It just won't sound like the real deal!
But learning the electric guitar when you are a novice is not easy to do. You will need help from accessories like the metronome to understand the rhythm and play your favourite music styles.
The sound effects that amps can provide are stimulating. However, you will quickly need other accessories to create new sound effects. Capo, pedals, have fun with it.
Your brand-new electric guitar will also help you to progress. We do not play the same way with an electric guitar that we do with a classical or a folk guitar. Special techniques are employed to use the hands differently and create other rhythms.
Want to start a band?
The electric guitar is still one of the best instruments for a rock band. And even for other styles. The electric guitar isn't just for the experienced guitar players of Rock Fest, the great metal festival!
Blues and pop music also use electric guitar sounds to create their pieces.
A sound that provides a touch of modernity to these different styles.
And since you will already have an amp, it will be easy for you to perform on stage.
Let’s book the date already!
So, the Cost of an Electric Guitar? It Depends on Usage
Your guitar's price will depend on what you use it for.
If your career is all set and the world of professional music opens its doors to you, then you will have to invest... And when we talk about an investment, it can quickly reach €1500. Because of the electronics of these guitars, the price goes up quickly.
However, with this kind of guitar, there is nothing wrong. You can be sure that your purchase will last for years and you can then pass it on as a treasure to your children and grandchildren. Indeed, the finishes are perfect (fretting, lutherie...) with impeccable wood (cedar, maple, spruce, mahogany...).
On the other hand, there's no need to spend so much when you start with the electric guitar. You can find guitars that suit you without asking for a loan from your bank.
Electric guitars at this price point will be good enough for your first guitar class and the price range will give you a lot of options.
Since it is very important that you like your guitar, design plays a big role.
Here are some examples of electric guitars:
- Epiphone Les Paul Standard, a little vintage
- Squier Series Stratocaster, classic, but not expensive (how to find an inexpensive guitar elsewhere...?)
- Dean ML X for the look of a star...
It's up to you to choose the look of your electric guitar!
If you want, you can upgrade later on by reselling your electric guitar to buy another one that better suits your intermediate level.
But look after your first guitar. Take great care of it because these instruments rarely lose their value when it comes to reselling them. But only if it remains in very good condition.
Pay great attention to the guitar's lutherie parts such as the bridge, the neck, the soundboard or even the mechanics. All these parts are important to keeping an ideal sound when playing guitar.
Buying a Guitar Second-Hand.
Are you still struggling to decide between buying a second-hand guitar or going to a music store to purchase a new one?
Be aware that whatever your decision is, the most important thing is to find the guitar that suits you the best. Regardless of whether it's a Fender, Ibanez or Gibson, the key is that it matches your level and tastes.
However, the condition of the guitar is very important to keep the original sound. It’s easier to get a guitar in good condition in-store, rather than on Craigslist. Although many owners take great care of their equipment, you can never be sure.
Buying a guitar in-store will allow you to test it out before buying it. The department stores usually have amps available to try with the electric guitars. Spend a few minutes checking out the guitars that you like and wait until you find the one that's right for you.
The Internet is also a way to acquire a new guitar. But it will be difficult to track the package until it arrives. Also, you cannot try the guitar before you receive it.
Also, after this purchase, you will probably need to change the strings at one point. But what is the price of new guitar strings?
Used Instruments: A Way to Lower the Price of a Guitar?
You don’t really have the budget to buy a new guitar?
Yet, you've had your eyes on the Telecaster in your favourite music store for months.
You can buy the used guitar of your dreams!
More and more people are using second-hand items sold by individuals. You can find everything from clothes to high-tech items to musical instruments.
You will be able to find that special guitar by strolling through flea markets or exploring sites such as Donedeal or even Facebook Marketplace. This way, you can go to the seller's house, or meet in a public place, and see the condition of the guitar for yourself. The prices can be half of the guitar’s original price. This is something to think about...
There are numerous sites that give people the opportunity to help each other. If you don’t know which guitar to buy, just get in touch with enthusiasts to find your answer.
And thanks to this second-hand market craze, several chain stores have opened to gather all these objects in the same space.
In every one of these stores, there is a music department where there are many guitars for sale. Their condition is checked before being put on display and you can ask for advice from the salesperson.
When it comes to picking the guitar, it's important to think about what you want to achieve by playing the instrument, how you play, your budget and your skill level. By considering these factors, you can make an informed choice that suits your needs and preferences.
Whatever kind of electric guitar you're interested in, there are plenty of options in price ranges that will let you express yourself musically and find joy in playing the guitar.
Best Budget Electric Guitars for Beginners
You don't need to break the bank to get a new electric guitar, especially if you're a beginner.
Remember that an expensive guitar won't make you sound any better if you can't play the guitar yet.
Instead, focus on affordable electric guitars that offer durability and playability. Here's what else you should look for when buying your first electric guitar.
- Price – A good beginner electric guitar ranges between €150-€300.
- Pickups – Choose between single-coil pickups (brighter tone) and humbuckers (warmer, heavier sound).
- Neck & Fingerboard – A comfortable neck makes playing easier, and materials like maple offer durability.
- Body Type – Lightweight models are easier for beginners to handle.
- Included Accessories – Some beginner packs come with an amp, strap, and picks, saving extra costs.
Top Budget Electric Guitars for Beginners
Squier Affinity Stratocaster (€250-€300)
- Classic Fender Stratocaster design at a lower price
- Single-coil pickups for a bright, clear tone
- Ideal for rock, blues, and pop
Here's Fender's opinion on their guitars for beginners.
Epiphone Les Paul Special-II (€180-€250)
- Inspired by the Gibson Les Paul but budget-friendly
- Humbucker pickups for a rich, warm tone
- Great for heavier styles like hard rock and metal
Yamaha Pacifica 112V (€280-€320)
- Versatile HSS pickup configuration (humbucker + two single-coils)
- Comfortable maple neck for easy playability
- Suitable for various music styles
Ibanez GRX70QA (€220-€270)
- Lightweight solid body with fast neck
- Humbuckers and single-coil pickup mix for diverse tones
- Perfect for players leaning towards rock and metal
Harley Benton TE-52 (€160-€220)
- Budget-friendly Telecaster-style guitar
- Vintage-style pickups with warm tones
- A solid option for country, blues, and indie
| Guitar Model | Price Range | Pickup Type | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Squier Affinity Stratocaster | €250–€300 | Single-coil | Classic Fender design, bright tone, ideal for rock, blues, and pop |
| Epiphone Les Paul Special-II | €180–€250 | Humbuckers | Warm, rich tone; inspired by Gibson; great for hard rock and metal |
| Yamaha Pacifica 112V | €280–€320 | HSS (Humbucker + 2 single-coils) | Versatile tone, comfortable maple neck, great all-round beginner guitar |
| Ibanez GRX70QA | €220–€270 | Humbuckers + Single-coil | Lightweight solid body, fast neck, perfect for rock and metal |
| Harley Benton TE-52 | €160–€220 | Vintage-style single-coils | Telecaster-style design, warm vintage tone, ideal for country, blues, and indie |
1. Test before you buy! Try the guitar in-store or check return policies when buying online.
2. Go for a bundle. Some electric guitars come with an amp, cables, and gig bag, saving you money.
3. Consider used guitars. A well-maintained used Epiphone or Squier can be a fantastic bargain.
How to Choose the Right Amp for Your Electric Guitar
Technically, an electric guitar is an instrument that includes both the guitar and the amp. The amp is as important for the sound as the guitar itself.
If you run an expensive guitar through a cheap amp, it's like driving a Ferrari around a parking lot.
You must understand the different types of amps and remember that expensive amps won't make cheap guitars sound good, either.
Understanding Guitar Amp Types
There are four main types of guitar amps, each offering different sound characteristics and price points:
Solid-State Amps (Budget-Friendly & Reliable)
- Affordable, durable, and great for beginners
- Uses transistors instead of vacuum tubes
- Offers a clean, consistent sound without much maintenance
- Example: Boss Katana 50 (€250-€300) – Excellent for practice and live use
Tube Amps (Classic Warm Tone)
- Uses vacuum tubes for a rich, warm tone with natural distortion
- More expensive but preferred by professional players
- Requires maintenance (tube replacements over time)
- Example: Fender Blues Junior (€500-€600) – Perfect for blues, rock, and jazz
Modeling Amps (Digital Effects & Versatility)
- Uses digital technology to replicate classic amp sounds
- Offers built-in effects like reverb, delay, and overdrive
- Ideal for home practice and recording
- Example: Fender Mustang LT25 (€180-€250) – A solid beginner-friendly choice
Hybrid Amps (Best of Both Worlds)
- Combines a tube preamp with a solid-state power amp
- Offers a mix of vintage warmth and modern reliability
- Example: Vox VT40X (€250-€350) – A versatile amp for all styles
Key Features to Look For in a Guitar Amp
- Wattage – 10-30W for home practice, 50-100W+ for gigs.
- Built-in Effects – Some amps include chorus, reverb, distortion, and delay.
- Portability – If you travel or play live, consider a compact amp with headphone output.
- Speaker Size – 8” to 12” speakers provide better sound depth.
- Connectivity – AUX input, USB, and Bluetooth for recording or playing with backing tracks.
Best Amps for Beginners (Budget-Friendly Options)
- Blackstar Fly 3 (€70-€100) – A compact mini-amp for practising anywhere
- Fender Champion 20 (€150-€180) – Offers versatile tones and built-in effects
- Orange Crush 20RT (€180-€230) – Perfect for rock and metal players
- Vox Pathfinder 10 (€120-€150) – Great for vintage clean and crunchy tones
Final Amp Buying Tips
- Try before you buy! Play your guitar through different amps to hear the tone variations.
- Consider your style. Rock and metal players prefer amps with high-gain distortion, while jazz and blues players prefer warmer tube amps.
- Invest in an amp with effects to avoid buying additional pedals early on.
- Don’t overspend. A €150-€250 amp is plenty for beginners!
Search for guitar lessons for beginners or online guitar lessons on Superprof to start learning today! Whatever type of guitar you choose to play, there are guitar lessons for you!
Enjoyed this article? Leave a rating!
Loading...
