How to Find Quality Cheap Guitars for Sale: A Practical Buying Guide
Finding a low-priced guitar that still plays well and holds up over time takes more than luck. With a clear budget, smart brand and model comparisons, and a careful inspection checklist, you can avoid costly surprises and focus on instruments that deliver reliable performance for the money.
Scoring a wallet-friendly guitar that actually inspires you to play is possible with a methodical approach. Cheap does not have to mean disposable; it means prioritizing the features that matter, knowing where compromises are acceptable, and checking condition carefully—especially if you’re considering used instruments. The steps below will help you navigate choices, understand value, and identify models with solid build quality at approachable prices.
Budget and priorities: acoustic or electric, new or used?
Start by deciding how you’ll use the guitar and what accessories you need. Acoustics are self-contained; electrics often require an amplifier, cable, and possibly a tuner and strap, which adds to total cost. For many beginners and value-seekers, a realistic starting budget is roughly in the range of entry-level new models or well-kept used mid-tier models. If you choose used, you can often stretch your money further because guitars depreciate fastest in the first few years, yet many remain structurally sound for decades. Also decide on feel and sound: strumming and singer-songwriter use points to acoustic, while rock, blues, and tones requiring overdrive or effects point to electric.
How to compare brands, models, and build quality
On acoustics, a solid top (often spruce) usually projects better and matures tonally over time, while all-laminate bodies emphasize durability and low cost. Check bracing quality, bridge and nut materials, and tuning machines; stable tuners and a properly cut nut improve tuning stability. On electrics, examine pickups (single-coil vs humbucker), fretwork, and hardware. Even in budget lines, consistent fret ends, level frets, and a straight neck signal good quality control. Brands with long-running entry lines often refine small details year over year, so reading recent model-year updates is helpful. Don’t chase specs alone—playability and setup matter more than cosmetic upgrades.
Where to shop: stores, marketplaces, and local listings
Local music stores and larger chains offer the advantage of trying multiple guitars and leveraging return policies or local services for adjustments. Online retailers provide broad selection and frequent discounts, while dedicated marketplaces (such as those specializing in instruments) often list detailed condition notes, seller ratings, and shipping protections. Local listings in your area can yield excellent value if you can inspect before purchasing. Wherever you shop, confirm the return window, restocking fees, and shipping costs so you can factor them into overall value.
Inspect condition: neck, frets, electronics, setup
For acoustics, sight down the neck to check straightness and relief; look for high action, sharp fret ends, and buzzing. Inspect the bridge and top for lifting or cracks, and ensure the truss rod adjusts smoothly. For electrics, verify that the output jack is tight, knobs turn cleanly without scratchy noise, the pickup selector is reliable, and tuning machines hold pitch. Check fret wear (divots or flat spots), nut slots (too deep can cause buzzing), and general hardware rust. A basic setup—truss rod, action, intonation—can transform a decent guitar into a great player, so never judge a guitar solely by its out-of-the-box action.
Maximize value: accessories, setup, returns and warranty
Budget for essentials: extra strings, a clip-on tuner, picks, a strap, and a gig bag or case. If you buy an electric, consider a small, reliable practice amp or a headphone-friendly solution. A professional setup from a local service can cost less than a fraction of the guitar’s price and often yields the biggest improvement in comfort and tuning stability. Review return and warranty terms carefully, especially for used purchases; some stores offer limited guarantees on pre-owned gear, while private sales usually do not. Keep receipts, photos, and communications in case you need to exercise a return policy.
Price guide and comparisons
Below are commonly recommended budget-friendly models with typical street-price ranges for new and used units. Actual prices vary by region, condition, and availability.
| Product/Service | Provider | Cost Estimation |
|---|---|---|
| Pacifica 112V (electric) | Yamaha | New: US$250–330; Used: US$150–230 |
| Affinity Stratocaster (electric) | Squier by Fender | New: US$250–300; Used: US$120–220 |
| Les Paul Special E1 (electric) | Epiphone | New: US$180–200; Used: US$100–150 |
| GRX70QA (electric) | Ibanez | New: US$180–200; Used: US$100–150 |
| FG800 (acoustic) | Yamaha | New: US$220–250; Used: US$150–200 |
| CD-60S (acoustic) | Fender | New: US$200–230; Used: US$130–180 |
| TE-20 (electric) | Harley Benton | New: US$90–130; Used: US$70–110 |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
When evaluating these ranges, factor in the cost of a basic setup if needed. Many new guitars arrive playable but benefit from a professional once-over, while used guitars may require fresh strings, cleaning, or minor fretwork. If total outlay for a used guitar plus setup approaches a new model that includes a warranty and return policy, the safer route may be the new option.
Practical setup benchmarks
- Relief at the 7th–9th fret: a slight gap about the thickness of a business card is a common starting point.
- Action at the 12th fret: around 2.0–2.5 mm on acoustics and 1.5–2.0 mm on electrics is typical for many players; adjust to taste.
- Intonation: open notes and 12th-fret notes should match; small saddle adjustments can correct discrepancies.
Red flags that lower value
- Structural issues: neck twist, top/brace cracks, lifted bridges, or truss rods that do not turn.
- Severe fret wear requiring a level or refret that exceeds the instrument’s value.
- Electronics failures that indicate deeper wiring or component problems.
Conclusion
Finding a quality low-cost guitar is about balancing priorities, recognizing dependable entry-level lines, and applying a careful inspection and setup mindset. Whether you choose a solid used instrument or a new model with warranty support, a clear plan—budget, shop smart, inspect thoroughly, and account for setup—helps you land a guitar that plays reliably and keeps you motivated to practice.
