How to Buy Your First Electric Guitar as a Student: The Complete Beginner’s Guide(
Learning electric guitar isn’t just about playing notes, it’s about discovering your unique voice and style.
I still remember back in 2012, when I was a student buying my very first acoustic guitar. Even then, I always dreamed of shredding on stage like my heroes. After a couple of months of practicing on acoustic, I kept asking my teacher: How can I shred like the pros? At that time, I was watching legends like Faraz Anwar and John Petrucci playing electric guitars, and all I wanted was to play like them.
But here’s where I made my mistake. Without telling my teacher, I walked into a guitar shop and bought my first electric guitar. I had no idea how to choose or what to check. I thought it would be simple: just grab any electric guitar, practice for a few months, and suddenly I’d be shredding like my favorite legends. But I quickly realized I was wrong.
The guitar I bought wasn’t right for me, and it made learning much harder. That’s why I’m writing this article to help students avoid the same mistake I made. If you rush into buying an electric guitar without knowing what to look for, you’re not just wasting money you’re slowing down your own progress.
Everyone has their own perspective, but through my own journey I’ve learned this: starting on an acoustic guitar builds the strongest foundation. In my first article, “How to Buy Your First Acoustic Guitar as a Student,” I explained how acoustic helps you grow discipline, tone, and finger strength.
Once you’ve practiced on acoustic for a few months, then you can step confidently into the world of electric guitars. My advice is simple: don’t buy an electric alone. Ask your teacher, a friend, or even use this guide to help you make the right choice. I promise, it will save you frustration and help you build a solid path toward mastering technique, tone, and style.
Of course, the excitement of buying your first electric guitar can quickly turn into confusion. Back when I stepped into the market, I was overwhelmed by the options: hundreds of brands, different body styles, and price tags ranging from under $100 to several thousand dollars. Making the right decision wasn’t easy, it required patience, research, and good advice.
That’s why I created this guide. It’s written for students just like I once was standing at the beginning of their musical journey, unsure of which guitar to buy. Choosing the wrong electric can lead to sore fingers, frustration, and sometimes even giving up. But the right guitar? That will inspire you, support your growth, and keep you motivated for years to come.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose your first electric guitar, what features to check before buying, and even suggest beginner friendly models that have worked for countless students. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge and the confidence to pick the electric guitar that’s truly right for you.
Here’s why electric guitars can be such a powerful choice for students once you’ve laid the groundwork on acoustic:
Simplicity – Plug in and play. While electrics need an amp and cable, they’re generally easier on the fingers and smoother to handle. That simplicity in feel keeps students motivated.
Affordability – There are plenty of beginner friendly electric models at reasonable prices. You don’t need a professional level guitar to start exploring riffs, licks, and solos.
Skill-Building – After a few months on acoustic, the lighter string tension of an electric feels effortless. This lets you focus on techniques like bending, slides, hammer ons, and shredding without being held back physically.
Versatility – With an electric, you can explore a wide range of tones and genres from clean blues to heavy metal. This versatility keeps learning fresh and exciting.
Foundation for Growth – Many legendary guitarists began with acoustic but grew into their style on electric. Acoustic gives you discipline, but electric lets you express your unique voice.
👉 So, my advice is simple:(Use H3 for this)
start on acoustic, build your strength and basics, then move to electric. This path gives you the strongest foundation and ensures that when you finally plug in, you’re ready to make the most of it.
💡 From my perspective, the best way to begin your guitar journey is to start with an acoustic guitar for the first 4–5 months. Acoustic builds finger strength, discipline, and technique in a way that makes transitioning to electric much smoother. After that foundation is built, picking up an electric guitar becomes exciting and it’s where many students truly find their style and motivation. Of course, this is my personal experience; others may have different opinions.
Here I’m guiding you on how to buy your first electric guitar as a student. My goal isn’t to discourage you from buying electric first, it’s to make sure that when you step into a music store, you know exactly what to check so your money and time are invested in the right instrument.
Important Factors to Check Before Buying an Electric Guitar(H2)
Buying your first electric guitar isn’t just about looks, brand names, or price tags. The right choice will make learning smoother and keep you motivated. Here’s what you should always check:
1. The Neck Should Be Straight(H3)
If you guys remember in my first article, “How to Buy Your First Acoustic Guitar as a Student,” I explained how important it is to check the neck of the guitar. The same rule applies here with electric guitars.
A straight neck ensures proper playability and intonation. Hold the guitar at eye level and look down the neck from the headstock to the body. If you see a big curve or twist, it will be harder to play and even harder to keep the guitar in tune. A slight curve (called “relief”) is normal, but avoids extreme bends.
2. String Action (Height of Strings)
Again, just like I mentioned in my acoustic guitar article, string action is a big deal for beginners. Action is how high the strings sit above the fretboard. If the action is too high, your fingers will struggle, especially when trying bends, chords, or fast riffs. If it’s too low, the strings might buzz against the frets.
3. Check the Build and Wood Quality
Even beginner electric guitars should feel solid in your hands. Many affordable models use basswood, poplar, or laminated woods and that’s perfectly fine but avoid guitars that feel too cheap, overly light, or fragile.
4. Comfort and Size
Your guitar should fit your body and hands. If you have smaller hands, consider a slimmer neck profile or even a ¾-sized model. The guitar should rest comfortably whether you’re sitting or standing. Remember, comfort directly affects how long you’ll want to practice.
5. Test the Electronics
This is one of the most important checks for electrics. Plug the guitar into an amp, turn all the knobs, and flip the pickup selector. If you hear scratchy noise, sudden dropouts, or dead pickups, there might be wiring issues. A clean, responsive electronic system will save you headaches later.
👉 My advice: always ask the shop staff to help adjust or recommend a guitar with comfortable, beginner friendly action. It will save you frustration and help you build proper technique from the start.
Testing Your First Electric Guitar in the Store(H3)
Before making the big decision, spend a few minutes hands on with the guitar.
These simple checks will save you from future frustration and make sure you walk out with the right instrument:
1. Test the Electronics Thoroughly
When you’re in the store, don’t just strum the guitar unplugged, always plug it into an amp. Turn every knob (volume, tone) slowly and listen carefully. They should move smoothly without loud crackling or static. Next, flip the pickup selector through all positions and play a few notes on each setting. Every pickup should produce a clear sound. If you notice scratchy noises, sudden volume dropouts, or a pickup that doesn’t respond at all, it likely means the guitar has wiring or electronic issues. For a beginner, it’s better to spot these problems before you buy.
2. Play a Few Basic Chords
Even if you’re new to guitar and only know simple chords like C, G, or F, try playing them on the electric guitar you’re testing. Pay attention to how they sound, the notes should ring out clearly without buzzing or muting. Also notice how your fingers feel when pressing the strings. A good beginner friendly guitar should let you play basic chords without causing excessive pain or strain. If the chords feel unusually difficult or the sound is muffled, the guitar’s setup (string action or neck adjustment) may not be ideal for beginners.
3. Check Overall Comfort
Hold the guitar both sitting down and standing up with a strap if possible. Notice how it feels against your body, is it well balanced, or does the neck dive downward? Pay attention to the weight, too: if it feels too heavy or oversized, long practice sessions may become tiring. The guitar should feel like a natural extension of you, not something you’re struggling to control. Comfort is key because the easier it feels to hold and play, the more time you’ll want to spend practicing.
4. Test Tuning Stability
Ask the shop staff for a tuner and carefully bring the guitar to standard tuning. Play a few chords, strum lightly, and even bend some notes. After a couple of minutes, check the tuning again. A good beginner guitar should hold its pitch reasonably well. If it goes out of tune right away, the problem might be with the tuning machines, nut, or overall build quality. Stability is important if your guitar can’t stay in tune, practicing will quickly become frustrating.
5. Ask the staff
They’re there to help you understand the guitar.
Should You Buy New or Used?
When it comes to your first electric guitar, the choice between new and used can make a big difference. Each option has its own benefits:
Buying New
Fresh feel and flawless condition.
Comes with a manufacturer warranty.
Latest features, hardware, and designs.
Buying Used
Easier on the budget.
Chance to discover older or vintage models with character.
Smart choice if you’re just testing the waters and not sure of long-term commitment.
👉 If you decide to buy used, always bring along a teacher, friend, or someone experienced. They can help you spot hidden issues that a beginner might miss.
Beginner-Friendly Electric Guitars Worth Your Money
If you’re a student looking for your first electric guitar, you don’t need to spend thousands to get a solid instrument. In the $150–$300 range, there are reliable models that deliver quality, comfort, and tone without breaking the bank. Here are three great options to consider:
🎸 Ibanez GRG170DX-BKN
Why it’s good for students: Ibanez is well-known for making guitars that are easy to play, especially if you like rock or metal. The slim neck makes fast chords and riffs easier on beginner fingers.
Tone and style: It comes with versatile pickups that can handle heavy distortion for rock but also clean tones for softer playing.
Best for: Students who want to learn shredding, metal riffs, or faster techniques.
Want to see it in action?
Here’s a helpful video 👇
🎸 Fender Affinity Series™ Stratocaster® HH
Why it’s good for students: The Stratocaster shape is legendary and comfortable to hold. The “HH” means it has two humbucker pickups, which give you a warmer, thicker sound and reduce unwanted noise.
Tone and style: Perfect for blues, rock, pop, and even heavier styles thanks to its versatile pickup setup.
Best for: Students who want one guitar that can cover many genres.
Want to see it in action?
Here’s a helpful video 👇
🎸 Jackson JS Series Dinky JS11
Why it’s good for students: Jackson guitars are built with beginners in mind but have the look and feel of professional instruments. The body is light and easy to handle, which makes longer practice sessions more comfortable.
Tone and style: Known for sharp tones that cut through well, making it ideal for rock and metal.
Best for: Students who want a stylish, aggressive-looking guitar that still plays smoothly
Want to see it in action?
Here’s a helpful video 👇
👉 Final Note: All three of these guitars are affordable, reliable, and designed with students in mind. Choosing between them depends on your musical taste. If you want versatility, go with Fender; if speed and shredding excite you, Ibanez is a great choice; and if you’re drawn to bold rock/metal vibes, Jackson is hard to beat.
From my own experience, the Jackson stands out with its smooth fretboard and lightweight body, making it comfortable even during long practice sessions. I often recommend it not only to students but also to professionals who want to shred or capture that heavy, powerful sound. It’s a true companion for rock and metal players.
🎸 Premium Student Category ($300–$900)
Stepping Into Professional Quality Without Breaking the Bank
If you’ve already built your foundation on acoustic guitar or a budget electric, and now you’re ready to invest in something that will last for years, the premium student range is where you should look. These guitars sit between entry level and pro grade, offering better build quality, smoother playability, and tones that can take you from bedroom practice to live performances. Here are two excellent choices I highly recommend:
PRS SE Custom 24 (Black Gold Sunburst)
The PRS SE Custom 24 is widely considered one of the best all rounder guitars for students ready to step up. It blends stunning aesthetics with incredible versatility:
Tone Variety – With 24 frets and coil-tap pickups, this guitar delivers everything from warm cleans to heavy distortion without needing multiple instruments.
Playability – Its smooth, slim neck and balanced weight make it comfortable to hold and easy to navigate, even for long practice sessions.
Build Quality – PRS guitars are known for their rock-solid craftsmanship and consistency, which means you’re investing in reliability as well as sound.
Want to see it in action?
Here’s a helpful video 👇
The SE Custom 24 Quilt | Demo | PRS Guitars
Style – The Black Gold Sunburst finish turns it into not just a guitar, but a piece of art you’ll be proud to showcase on stage or at home.
👉 If you’re looking for one guitar that can handle multiple genres from blues and pop to rock and metal the PRS SE Custom 24 is a fantastic choice.
Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP60 (Stealth Black)
For students inspired by progressive rock and metal legends like John Petrucci, the JP60 is an outstanding entry point into the world of high-performance guitars.
Precision Playability – Designed after Petrucci’s signature models, the JP60 features a slim, fast neck and a contoured body, offering comfort even during extended practice or complex riffs.
Versatile Sound – As a 6-string, it balances smooth leads with crushing riffs, making it approachable for beginners while powerful enough for advanced techniques.
Stage-Ready Aesthetics – The stealth black finish gives it a bold, modern, and professional vibe that instantly boosts your confidence on stage or in the studio.
Want to see it in action?
Here’s a helpful video 👇
John Petrucci demos his Sterling by Music Man JP60
👉 If your musical goals lean toward progressive, technical, or heavier styles, the JP60 will give you the tone, speed, and feel to grow into those genres with confidence.
Final Note
Both of these guitars represent the sweet spot between student and professional instruments. They’re built to last, versatile enough to cover multiple genres, and designed to support your growth as you advance in technique and style.
If you want flexibility and an all around guitar that shines across different tones, the PRS SE Custom 24 is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if your passion leans toward progressive, technical, or heavier playing, the Sterling by Music Man John Petrucci JP60 will give you the speed, precision, and confidence to explore those styles with ease.
👉 Remember: your first premium guitar isn’t just an upgrade it’s a long-term partner in your musical journey. Choose the one that excites you most, and it will inspire you to keep practicing, performing, and growing.
🎸 Choosing the Right Electric Guitar Size
Finding the right guitar size is just as important as choosing the model. A guitar that feels too big or heavy can slow down your progress, while the right size makes practice comfortable and enjoyable.
½ Size (Smallest) – Best suited for very young children under 8 years old. These guitars are lightweight and easier for small hands to handle, but they’re less common in electric models.
¾ Size (Student-Friendly) – Perfect for kids aged 8–12 or for students with smaller hands who may struggle with a full-size guitar. A ¾ electric is lighter, easier to reach across the fretboard, and ideal for beginners starting their journey.
Full Size (Standard) – Designed for teens and adults. This is the most common size and offers the full range of tone and playability. Once your hands are comfortable and strong enough, a full-size electric guitar is the best choice for long-term practice and performance.
👉 Pro Tip from my own experience: When I first picked up an electric guitar after learning on acoustic, moving to a full-size felt natural because I had already built finger strength. But for younger students or beginners with smaller hands, starting with a ¾ size electric can make the early learning stage much smoother.
🎶 Must-Have Accessories for Your First Electric Guitar
Starting your journey with an electric guitar isn’t just about the instrument itself. The right accessories will make learning smoother and playing more enjoyable. Here are the essentials every student should consider:
1. Tuner – Keeps your guitar in perfect pitch, a must have for daily practice.
2. Case/Gig Bag – Protects your guitar during travel and storage.
3. Picks – Small but powerful, they affect tone and make strumming easier.
4. Extra Strings – Strings break always keep a spare set handy.
5. Amplifier (Amp) – Brings your electric guitar to life; even a small practice amp works.
6. Strap – Essential for playing while standing and improving posture.
7. Guitar Cable – The lifeline between your guitar and amp; without it, there’s no sound
👉 I’ve written two detailed articles dedicated to accessories with practical tips for beginners:
“Guitar Accessories You’ll Need as a Student”
“Guitar Accessories You’ll Need to Rock as a Student”
These go deeper into how to choose the right gear without overspending.
⚡ Common Mistakes Beginners Make When Buying Their First Electric Guitar
Starting out on an electric guitar is exciting, but many students fall into the same traps. Here’s what to avoid:
1. Choosing by Looks Only – A flashy paint job or cool body shape doesn’t mean the guitar will play well. Focus on comfort, sound, and build quality first.
2. Going Too Cheap – Super low-cost electrics often have tuning issues, sharp frets, and weak electronics. Instead of motivating you, they can make practice frustrating.
3. Ignoring Setup – Even the best beginner guitar needs adjustments. A professional setup (intonation, string height, and tuning stability) makes a huge difference in how it feels.
4. Buying Too Advanced Too Soon – Expensive pro-level guitars won’t automatically make you a better player. Start with a reliable student model, then upgrade once your skills grow.
🎸 From My Own Experience
When I bought my first electric guitar, I made almost every mistake in the book. I was focused on how it looked in my hands, chasing cool shapes and flashy designs. I even wasted money on an expensive guitar just for its appearance and later realized it didn’t help me play any better. That’s why I’m sharing these lessons with you, so you don’t repeat the same mistakes.
💡 Pro Tip: The audience won’t remember how shiny your guitar looked they’ll remember how well you played.
⚡ FAQs for First-Time Electric Guitar Buyers
Q: Should I start with acoustic or electric?
If you’ve already practiced 4–5 months on acoustic, moving to electric is a natural next step. But if rock, metal, or modern pop inspire you most, you can start directly with an electric guitar just be prepared to learn with an amp.
Q: How much should I spend on my first electric guitar?
A good beginner-friendly electric guitar usually costs between $200–$400. In this range, you’ll get solid quality without overspending.
Q: Do I need an amplifier right away?
Yes an electric guitar needs an amp to bring out its real sound. Even a small practice amp is fine when starting out.
Q: Do I need lessons, or can I learn online?
Both are great! A teacher will help you with proper technique and discipline, while online lessons and YouTube tutorials are excellent for flexibility and extra practice.
Q: How long will it take before I can play songs?
With steady daily practice, most students can play basic riffs and simple rock songs within 2–3 months. More complex solos and shredding will come with time and consistent effort.
🎸 Final Thoughts
Purchasing your first electric guitar as a student is more than just a shopping decision, it’s a defining step in your musical journey. The guitar you choose should not only fit your budget but also feel like an extension of yourself: comfortable to hold, reliable in tuning, and inspiring enough to make you want to practice every day.
Always remember: the right guitar isn’t the one with the highest price tag or flashiest design, it’s the one that motivates you to keep playing, learning, and growing as a musician. Take your time to explore, test different models, and trust your instincts before committing.
Most importantly, view this first guitar not as the final destination but as the starting point of a much larger adventure. With patience, the right instrument, and consistent practice, you’re not just buying a guitar, you’re building the foundation for a lifelong passion.
