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Best Guitar For 500 Dollars (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for a great guitar that won’t break the bank, then you’ve come to the right place. With so many options available, it can be tough to figure out what to look for when buying a guitar for 500 dollars. Luckily, we’ve got you covered with some helpful tips to consider before making your purchase.

First and foremost, it’s important to consider the quality of the materials used to construct the guitar. High-quality woods and hardware make a big difference in sound and longevity. Additionally, consider the type of guitar you’re looking for – acoustic, electric, or a combination – as well as the level of experience of the player. This can help ensure you get the right guitar for you or the person you’re buying it for.

Are you a seasoned player looking for a backup guitar, or are you just starting out? Do you love playing in front of crowds or just for your own entertainment? Or perhaps you’re looking for a guitar that can easily transition between playing at home and on stage. Whatever your needs are, finding the right guitar can make all the difference. Keep these questions in mind when shopping to find a guitar for 500 dollars that fits your needs and helps you take your music to the next level.

10 Best Guitar For 500 Dollars

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for playing electric guitar in a variety of styles and genres.
2
The product is ideal for musicians who want a portable and lightweight electric guitar with a sleek and modern design.
3
The product is ideal for people who are looking for a high-quality, solid top acoustic guitar at an affordable price.
4
Ideal for beginners who want a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with an upgraded starter kit and sleek black design.
5
Ideal for musicians seeking classic style and modern features, with versatile pickup switching, volume control, and tone control.
6
The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, versatile and visually stunning acoustic-electric guitar.
7
Ideal for beginners learning to play the acoustic guitar, with all necessary accessories and instructional materials included.
8
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality digital piano with a dark rosewood finish and included bench.
9
The product is ideal for those who play and tune various string instruments, including guitars, ukuleles, banjos, and mandolins.
10
This product is ideal for beginners looking for a full-size electric guitar kit with an amplifier and accessories.
The product is ideal for playing electric guitar in a variety of styles and genres.
The product is ideal for musicians who want a portable and lightweight electric guitar with a sleek and modern design.
The product is ideal for people who are looking for a high-quality, solid top acoustic guitar at an affordable price.
Ideal for beginners who want a high-quality 12-string acoustic-electric guitar with an upgraded starter kit and sleek black design.
Ideal for musicians seeking classic style and modern features, with versatile pickup switching, volume control, and tone control.
The product is ideal for musicians who want a high-quality, versatile and visually stunning acoustic-electric guitar.
Ideal for beginners learning to play the acoustic guitar, with all necessary accessories and instructional materials included.
The product is ideal for musicians looking for a high-quality digital piano with a dark rosewood finish and included bench.
The product is ideal for those who play and tune various string instruments, including guitars, ukuleles, banjos, and mandolins.
This product is ideal for beginners looking for a full-size electric guitar kit with an amplifier and accessories.

1. Schecter Omen Extreme-7 Electric Guitar – Black Cherry

The 7-string Solidbody Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body is a high-quality instrument that is perfect for both professional and amateur musicians. This guitar boasts exceptional craftsmanship, with a sleek and stylish design that is sure to turn heads. It has a rich and full sound that is perfect for a wide range of music genres, including rock, metal, and blues.

The guitar features a mahogany body, which is known for its warm and rich sound. The body is durable and sturdy, making it an ideal choice for gigging musicians who need a reliable instrument. The guitar also has a maple neck and top, which add to its overall quality and resonance.

The 2 humbucking pickups on the guitar are designed to deliver a powerful and dynamic sound. They are perfect for achieving the heavy, distorted tones that are often associated with rock and metal music. The guitar also has a rosewood fingerboard, which is known for its smooth feel and excellent playability.

Overall, the 7-string Solidbody Electric Guitar with Mahogany Body is an exceptional instrument that is well worth the investment. It offers a high level of playability, exceptional sound quality, and a stylish and attractive design that is sure to impress.

Pros

  • High-quality craftsmanship
  • Sleek and stylish design
  • Rich and full sound
  • Durable and sturdy construction
  • Powerful humbucking pickups
  • Smooth and playable rosewood fingerboard

2. Traveler Guitar 6 String Solid-Body Electric Guitar, Right, Black Matte (Eg1b Bkm)

The Full 24 3/4" Scale Travel Guitar is perfect for those who are always on the go. With its compact size and lightweight design, it easily fits in overhead compartments and is easy to carry around. The guitar comes with a gig bag for added convenience.

One of the standout features of this guitar is the built-in headphone amp with aux-in. This allows you to jam with your mobile device and practice without disturbing others. The guitar bridge system is a Tune-O-Matic, which provides great tuning stability and sustain.

Overall, this is a great option for anyone who wants to practice or play while traveling. Its compact size and built-in features make it a convenient and versatile choice.

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to travel with
  • Built-in headphone amp with aux-in allows for quiet practice
  • Tune-O-Matic bridge system provides great tuning stability and sustain
  • Comes with a gig bag for added convenience

Cons

  • – May not provide the same sound quality as a full-size guitar

3. Yamaha Fd01s Solid Top Acoustic Guitar (Amazon-Exclusive)

Looking for the perfect first guitar? Look no further than this outstanding value acoustic guitar that combines quality woods and outstanding tone. Crafted with a solid spruce top and Nato (Eastern Mahogany) back & sides, this guitar delivers exceptional sound quality that is sure to impress. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add a touch of elegance and further enhance the overall sound of the instrument.

It's worth noting that this acoustic guitar requires a professional setup out of the box to achieve the player's preferences, but once it's set up, it will provide years of enjoyment.

Pros

  • Crafted with high-quality materials, including a solid spruce top.
  • Nato (Eastern Mahogany) back & sides provide an exceptional tone.
  • The rosewood fingerboard and bridge add a touch of elegance to the instrument.
  • Outstanding value for the price.

Cons

  • – Requires a professional setup out of the box.
  • – May not be suitable for experienced players who require advanced features.

4. 12-String Bundle: Vangoa's Upgraded Guitar Starter Set

The Vangoa 12-String Acoustic-Electric Dreadnought Guitar is a high-quality instrument that produces an outstanding sound. Its AAA spruce top and sapele back and sides create a well-balanced and warm sound, while the 12 strings provide a wider range of sound and have louder and punchier effects. The dreadnought body enhances the loud, full, impressive sound, making the echo-like sound more stunning.

The tuning pegs with 18:1 ratios offer more precise tuning, and the chrome-plated sealed design prevents gear against dust and liquid erosion, ensuring that it is durable and long-lasting. The bone nut and saddle efficiently transfer the vibration, making the sound better.

The guitar has a perfect design, with the strings nicely close together and a slender size C-shape neck that has a cozy hold. The cutaway ensures access to all frets, which is limitless on song performance. The lowkey matte finish makes it far more durable and easy to clean.

The built-in truss rod balances the tension caused by strings or temperature change shrinking, making the neck straight and durable. The perfect height of the strings allows your hand to stay in a more natural and comfortable position.

The guitar is acoustic-electric, with a built-in EQ and preamp that offers more sound options and larger sound projection in large areas. It comes with an audio cable, so you could play it acoustically or plug it in for the perfect stage show. The package also includes a 5 mm zipped padded bag, backup string set, and everything needed to start playing right away. Vangoa offers a 1-year warranty and fast response service.

Pros

  • Produces an outstanding sound
  • Strings nicely close together, won't take much muscle strength to play
  • Built-in truss rod balances the tension caused by strings or temperature change shrinking, making the neck straight and durable
  • Acoustic-electric, with a built-in EQ and preamp that offers more sound options and larger sound projection in large areas
  • Package includes everything needed to start playing right away
  • Vangoa offers a 1-year warranty and fast response service

Cons

  • – None found

5. Surfliner Electric Guitar – Classic Style, Modern Features

The Guild Surfliner is a brand new electric guitar that features offset styling, influenced by the vintage Guilds. It combines classic design with modern features to create a unique instrument. The guitar is available in three glossy finishes: Catalina Blue, Sunset Orange, and White Sage. The contoured asymmetrical Poplar body and satin-finished C-shaped maple neck are comfortable to play, and the guitar is well-balanced at any strap height.

The Surfliner has a 25.5” scale length and is one of Guild’s few electric models to feature this length. It is outfitted with three pickups in the versatile HSS format. The Guild LB-1 bridge pickup offers classic vintage humbucking bridge tones, while the two new Dearmond Aerosonic middle and neck pickups provide biting single-coil tones. The pickups can be combined in seven ways using the Guild Rocker Pickup Switching System, which has master volume, tone control, and three rocker switches. This system offers plenty of tonal variety, making the Surfliner suitable for a variety of playing styles and genres.

The guitar is crafted from poplar wood, and the neck-to-body joint is located at the 17th fret. The natural wood has unique spirit and varies greatly in color richness and wood grain, so the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here.

Pros

  • Unique offset styling
  • Combines classic design with modern features
  • Well-balanced and comfortable to play
  • Versatile HSS pickup format
  • Guild Rocker Pickup Switching System offers seven pickup combinations
  • Crafted from poplar wood
  • LB-1 bridge pickup offers classic vintage humbucking bridge tones
  • Dearmond Aerosonic middle and neck pickups provide biting single-coil tones
  • Suitable for a variety of playing styles and genres

Cons

  • – None

6. Taylor 224ce Ltd Deluxe Urban Ash Acoustic-Electric Guitar – Full Tobacco Sunburst

Introducing the limited-edition acoustic-electric guitar with an urban ash top that is sure to impress both beginners and professionals. The guitar comes with an elegant full tobacco sunburst finish that adds a touch of sophistication to the instrument.

The guitar features an ebony fingerboard that provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience. The maple neck, sides, and back of the guitar give it a sturdy and durable construction that ensures long-lasting use.

This guitar is perfect for musicians who are looking for an instrument that combines style and functionality. Whether you're playing at home or on stage, this limited-edition acoustic-electric guitar is sure to deliver the sound quality you need to captivate your audience.

Pros

  • Limited-edition design adds a touch of sophistication to the instrument
  • Ebony fingerboard provides a smooth and comfortable playing experience
  • Maple neck, sides, and back give the guitar a sturdy and durable construction

7. Squier Learn-To-Play Sunburst Acoustic Bundle

The Squier SA-150 is an affordable full-size steel-string acoustic guitar that delivers impressive sound quality. This guitar is crafted with all-laminate construction, a lindenwood top, and mahogany back and sides that can withstand the everyday wear and tear that beginner players may inflict. The scalloped X-bracing, mahogany neck, and dark-stained maple fingerboard are additional features that add to the guitar's durability and aesthetic appeal. The SA-150 has a slim, easy-to-play neck and a full-bodied dreadnought tone, making it an excellent choice for novice strummers.

This guitar bundle includes everything you need to get started. The gig bag that comes with it ensures that your instrument is safe and secure when you're on the go. The clip-on tuner is user-friendly and delivers reliable performance. The guitar strap, extra strings, string winder, and picks are included so you can begin playing your instrument immediately. Additionally, the bundle comes with an exclusive Austin Bazaar instructional DVD that provides the guidance you need as you learn your new instrument.

Pros

  • Affordable full-size steel-string acoustic guitar that delivers impressive sound quality
  • Scalloped X-bracing, mahogany neck, and dark-stained maple fingerboard add to the guitar's durability and aesthetic appeal
  • Slim, easy-to-play neck and full-bodied dreadnought tone make it an excellent choice for novice strummers
  • The bundle includes everything a beginner player needs to get started

Cons

  • – May not be suitable for intermediate or advanced players who require more advanced features

8. Yamaha Ydp165 Arius Series Digital Console Piano With Bench, Dark Rosewood

The Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano is equipped with Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) technology, which provides a tactile surface to the white keys. The synthetic ivory key tops prevent slipping and absorb finger moisture, ensuring a comfortable playing experience. The CFX Stereo Sampling feature faithfully reproduces the sound of Yamaha's flagship CFX Full Concert Grand. With Tone Escapement, a long and narrow hole in the back of the piano creates a wide sound space. The 3 Piano Style Pedals offer authentic sustain, sostenuto, and soft pedal performance. Additionally, the VRM (Virtual Resonance Modeling) Lite technology makes the sound more like that of a real acoustic piano by reproducing the sophisticated string resonance of an acoustic piano.

The Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano is perfect for both beginners and more experienced players. It boasts a range of features that ensure an authentic and enjoyable playing experience. The Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) technology provides tactile feedback, while the synthetic ivory key tops prevent slipping and absorb moisture. The CFX Stereo Sampling feature adds a touch of elegance to the sound, and the Tone Escapement feature creates a wide sound space. The 3 Piano Style Pedals offer a range of performance options, and the VRM (Virtual Resonance Modeling) Lite technology reproduces the sound of a real acoustic piano. Whether you're practicing or performing, the Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano is an excellent choice.

The Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano is designed to deliver an authentic playing experience. Its Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) technology provides tactile feedback, while the synthetic ivory key tops prevent slipping and absorb moisture. The CFX Stereo Sampling feature ensures a high-quality sound, and the Tone Escapement feature creates a wide sound space. The 3 Piano Style Pedals offer a range of performance options, and the VRM (Virtual Resonance Modeling) Lite technology reproduces the sound of a real acoustic piano. With its numerous features and elegant design, the Yamaha P-125 Digital Piano is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players.

Pros

  • Graded Hammer 3 (GH3) technology provides tactile feedback
  • Synthetic ivory key tops prevent slipping and absorb moisture
  • CFX Stereo Sampling feature reproduces the sound of Yamaha's flagship CFX Full Concert Grand
  • Tone Escapement feature creates a wide sound space
  • 3 Piano Style Pedals offer a range of performance options
  • VRM (Virtual Resonance Modeling) Lite technology reproduces the sound of a real acoustic piano

9. Smart Guitar Tuner & String Winder.

The Roadie 3 Automatic Instrument Tuner is an innovative device that can tune most string instruments with a guitar machine head. It is compatible with electric, acoustic, and classical guitars with nylon strings, 6, 7, and 12-string guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, banjos, lap steel guitars, bouzouki, mountain dulcimer, cigar box guitar, violins with planetary pegs, and many more. However, it is not suitable for bass guitars. You can use Roadie Bass for tuning bass guitars.

This device is 2x faster and more convenient to use than the previous version, Roadie 2. It can automatically tune your instrument in under 30 seconds. All you need to do is place Roadie on the peg, pluck the string and wait for it to do the rest.

Thanks to its next-generation vibration detection, Roadie 3 can provide enhanced tuning accuracy and noise immunity, allowing you to tune even in noisy environments. It also comes with 150+ built-in alternate tunings, making it easier for you to switch between tunings or create your own custom tunings.

You can customize the tuning settings according to your preferences. You can change the A4 reference pitch, tune with a capo on, create custom tunings, and switch between “Fast Tuning” and “High Accuracy” modes. Additionally, it has a built-in vibration/beep metronome so that you can set the tempo and feel the beat while playing.

The Roadie 3 also makes changing strings less tedious as it allows you to restring and tune in one step. You can quickly wind your new strings and directly tune them to perfection in one go. It has a full-color, high-resolution, and larger display screen, making it easier to read. Its compact design and ergonomic grip provide a comfortable tuning process. Lastly, it has a long-lasting charge and can last as long as 1 month on a single charge. You can easily recharge it with its USB-C cable, which is included in the box.

Pros

  • Compatible with most string instruments with a guitar machine head
  • 2x faster and more convenient to use than the previous version
  • Enhanced tuning accuracy and noise immunity
  • 150+ built-in alternate tunings
  • Customizable tuning settings
  • Built-in vibration/beep metronome
  • Allows restringing and tuning in one step
  • Full-color, high-resolution, and larger display screen
  • Compact design and ergonomic grip
  • Long-lasting charge and easily rechargeable with USB-C cable

Cons

  • – Not suitable for bass guitars

10. Full Size Electric Guitar Kit With Amp & Accessories

Experience the ultimate amplified sound with this 6-string electric guitar kit that comes with an included practice amplifier. This guitar features dual humbucker pickups that have two coils wound to reject noise and interference using phase cancellation resulting in a deeper, louder, and smoother sound compared to cheaper single coil guitars. The humbuckers provide a superior sound quality that is perfect for use on lessons, band performances, or when practicing at home.

Crafted with solid Paulownia wood, Canadian maple, and high density man-made wood for the fretboard, this guitar is built to last. Its decal veneer and glossy finish does not scratch easily ensuring that it maintains its sleek and elegant look for a long time. The diecast chrome rotary controls for the volume and tone and the 3 way pickup selector that changes the guitar tone between front, rear, and both humbucker pickups offer a wide range of sound possibilities.

This guitar kit also includes a full-scale standard size guitar, a tremolo rod, gig bag, guitar strings, shoulder strap, digital tuner, and picks. The included practice amplifier features a drive switch, volume, treble, and bass control, and a headphone output for silent practice. Its enhanced high-frequency response and portable and lightweight design make it easy to transport to gigs, lessons or practice sessions. The perfect starter kit for aspiring guitarists who want to experience the ultimate guitar sound.

Pros

  • Dual humbucker pickups for a deeper, louder, and smoother sound
  • Crafted with solid and high-quality materials for durability
  • Diecast chrome rotary controls for volume and tone and 3 way pickup selector for a wide range of sound possibilities
  • Included practice amplifier enhances sound quality and features a headphone output for silent practice
  • Full starter kit includes everything needed for beginners to start playing

Cons

  • – Might not be suitable for experienced guitarists who prefer more advanced features

Best Guitar For 500 Dollars FAQs

Are there any specific brands or models that offer the best value for $500?

Yes, there are several brands and models that offer the best value for $500. When it comes to laptops, one of the best options is the Acer Aspire 5. This laptop offers a sleek design, a 15.6-inch FHD display, an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD – all for under $500. Another great option is the Lenovo Ideapad 3, which offers similar specs at a similar price point.

In the smartphone market, the Google Pixel 4a is an excellent choice for those looking for a phone under $500. This phone boasts a 5.8-inch OLED display, a Snapdragon 730G processor, 6GB of RAM, and a 128GB storage capacity. It also has a high-quality camera and runs on the latest Android software.

For those in the market for a smartwatch, the Samsung Galaxy Watch Active 2 is a great option. It offers a sleek design, a vibrant display, and a wide range of fitness tracking features. It also has built-in GPS and LTE connectivity, allowing you to leave your phone at home while still staying connected.

Overall, there are many great options available for those looking to get the most value for their money at the $500 price point. It's important to do your research and consider your specific needs before making a purchase.

Can I get a high-quality guitar for $500?

Yes, it is possible to get a high-quality guitar for $500. While it may not be the most expensive or top-of-the-line guitar on the market, there are many options available in this price range that offer excellent sound and construction. It's essential to do your research and look for reputable brands with good reviews and a solid reputation among musicians.

One thing to keep in mind is that the type of guitar you want may affect the cost. For example, an acoustic guitar may be less expensive than an electric guitar with high-end pickups and other electronics. Additionally, purchasing a used guitar can often be a good way to get a higher quality instrument at a lower price.

Ultimately, the most important thing is to find a guitar that feels comfortable to play and sounds great to your ears. Don't be swayed by brand names or flashy features if they don't suit your needs. With a little patience and research, you can definitely find a high-quality guitar within your budget.

How does a $500 guitar compare to more expensive options?

When it comes to guitars, the price tag often correlates with the quality of the instrument. However, a $500 guitar can still offer great value and quality compared to more expensive options.

Firstly, it's important to note that a guitar's sound and playability are subjective and vary from person to person. A higher price tag doesn't necessarily guarantee a better playing experience.

In terms of construction and materials, a $500 guitar may not have the same high-end components as a more expensive instrument, but it can still be crafted with quality wood and hardware. Additionally, there are many affordable guitar brands that prioritize quality control and attention to detail, producing instruments that meet or exceed industry standards.

The main differences between a $500 guitar and a more expensive option may be the level of craftsmanship, attention to detail, and customization options. High-end guitars often have more intricate inlays, custom finishes, and specialized components that contribute to a unique playing experience.

Overall, a $500 guitar can be a great option for beginners or intermediate players who want a quality instrument without breaking the bank. However, for professional musicians or those looking for a specific sound and aesthetic, investing in a more expensive guitar may be worth it.

What are the best guitar options for $500 or less?

When it comes to buying a guitar, there are plenty of options available in the market that can suit your budget. If you're looking for the best guitar options for $500 or less, there are a few brands that you can consider.

Firstly, Yamaha has a range of excellent guitars that are affordable and provide great sound quality. The Yamaha FG800 is a popular choice among beginners and experts alike and is priced around $200.

Another great option is the Epiphone Les Paul Special II, which is a versatile guitar that is perfect for rock, blues, and jazz music. It has a solid mahogany body and a rosewood fretboard and is priced around $200.

If you're looking for an acoustic guitar, the Fender CD-60S is a great choice. It has a solid spruce top and mahogany back and sides and is priced around $250.

The Seagull S6 Original is also a great option for an acoustic guitar under $500. It has a solid cedar top and wild cherry back and sides and is priced around $400.

Ultimately, the best guitar option for you will depend on your personal preference and style. However, these guitars are a great starting point for anyone looking for a quality guitar under $500.

What should I look for when buying a guitar for $500?

When buying a guitar for $500, it is important to consider several factors such as the type of guitar, the brand, the build quality, and the sound quality.

Firstly, you should decide on the type of guitar that you want. Are you looking for an acoustic or an electric guitar? This decision will impact the style and sound you can produce.

Secondly, you should consider the brand. Some guitar brands are known for their quality and durability, while others may be less reliable. Research the brands and read reviews to determine which ones are worth investing in.

Thirdly, examine the build quality of the guitar. Look for any imperfections, such as cracks or uneven surfaces. Make sure the guitar feels comfortable in your hands and that the strings have good action.

Lastly, pay close attention to the sound quality. Play the guitar and listen to the sound it produces. Does it sound clear and crisp or muffled and dull? Make sure the tone is to your liking and that the guitar meets your needs.

Overall, buying a guitar for $500 requires careful consideration of the type, brand, build quality, and sound quality. By doing your research and testing out different options, you can find a guitar that is worth the investment.

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