Nowadays, music is growing together with the popularity of the media which makes the need to use musical instruments especially acoustic electric guitars more and more. This is an extremely popular instrument from professional musicians to amateur players who use the purpose of training or cover music that can be used. The problem arises when you will notice there are many types of acoustic electric guitars with different prices ranging from high to low and what most of us desire is to find a good quality electric guitar with suitable prices. So in this article, I will introduce you to the top 15 best budget acoustic electric guitars.
If you are a beginner with acoustic electric guitars, then the top 15 best budget acoustic electric guitars list belows here will be a great help for you. There are also some small tips for you when buying guitars so keep reading to understand more about guitars before buying. You can keep reading from Carroll / Fletcher to have better some more information about acoustic electric guitars
Quick Comparison: Best Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars
| Epiphone EJ-200SCE | Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Thinline | Yamaha APX500 |
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$$$ |
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Best for beginner |
Best for entertainer |
Best for advanced player |
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Best Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Detailed Reviews: Best Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars in 2023
Yamaha F325D Acoustic Guitar
The perfect option for the beginners on the budget when the price ranges only from $100 to $300. It delivers the quality a beginner needs, it has a balanced tone and is easy for people who start to play guitars.
The F325D body is in classic large dreadnought style with full-size, six-string guitar and suitable for the right hands. Unlike many cheap guitars, it’s well crafted so this is one of the best choices for the young.
Yamaha F325D Acoustic Guitar offers you sweet and high sound quality. The instrument is carefully machined, helping you to play lighter, limit hand pain and overcome the difficult initial stages. The top uses spruce wood while the back is made from Meranti wood to help make the sound more accurate, forming good habits when playing. The fretboards are made of rosewood and the neck is made from Nato wood. This is a type of iron string guitar with large resonance, suitable for playing pop music or singing accompaniment.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Excellent first guitar
- Affordable
- Stays in tune
- Adequate action
- Not susceptible to humidity change
Things we did not like
- No left-handed version
- The package has little protection
- It doesn’t age well
Donner DAG-1CE
Donner DAD-1CE is an affordable acoustic electric guitar with the familiar dreadnought style that is suitable for the young. Like Yamaha F325D, it includes the spruce for the top and the mahogany for the back which brings you the brighter sound. It is also suitable for the beginner and the students because of the reasonable prices(under $200) and many accessories included.It integrates a preamp for amplifiers that houses basic EQ controls: bass, mid, treble.Donner bundles this guitar with a gig bag, guitar strap, guitar capo, guitar strings, polishing cloth and guitar picks and an extra set of guitar strings. Here are specification details of the guitar.
Technical parameters:
- Body Shape: Dreadnought
- Top: African Spruce
- Furniture: African mahogany
- Finish: Satin
- Bridge: Hardwood
- Neck: African mahogany
- Ancient profile: Shape C
- Finger: Hard wood
- Hand radius: Not specified
- Number of frets: 20
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Excellent for beginner
- Reasonable price range
- Well sound sustains
- No fingerprint issues
- Connector setup included
Things we did not like
- Fret bar is too close to string
Fender CD-60CE
There is no doubt about the popularity of this product because it brings you the options. There are 4 body designs and you are free to choose the most attractive guitar body for you. They are dreadnought body, dreadnought cutaway, folk and folk cutaway. Not only for body design but users also can pick up the color among the sandy color, a mahogany with wood pattern combo and black finish. This is what makes Fender stand out among many brands.
Not only flexible design, many users praise them for having great tones and sounding bright and deep. Fender is very famous for the improvement each time they release new products. There are also many features included to the guitar which only come up with expensive products such as the scalloped bracing. This is the feature you may only find with high-end guitars, this part will give the players reach the high tone.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Affordable
- Many options for design and colors
- Hardshell case
Things we did not like
- The nut and washer come loose fast
- Sound same over time
Yamaha APXT2 3/4 Thinline
As the name suggests, this kind of guitar impacts those who are younger or just want to play small instruments. This guitar is only ¾ sized, it’s a very ideal guitar for people who have small hands and small bodies. APXT2 3/4 Thinline is in distinct cutaway design, the back and the sides made from meranti which designed sport style, the top is crafted from spruce.
APXT2 also includes ART-based preamp and System 68 contact pickup with built-in tuner.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Flexibility, easy playability
- Easy to carry
Things we did not like
- Action being low
- Low quality sound
Epiphone EJ-200SCE
Epiphone easily catches people’s eyes for the first time because of the impressive colors and outstanding design. This is a mix of three special colors: vintage sunburst, black surrounds the edge, pink for the dandelion pattern of the pickguard. Besides, there are two other options for those like classic: light sandy color and a dark black. The body of the guitar is made from maple which helps your sound warmer no matter what kind of music you play.
If you often carry the guitar with, EJ-200SCE is one of perfect options since it was seasoned machining with the laminate spruce top, withstands the bump from outside. There is one more thing which makes you remember this guitar: the crips and clear sound no matter if you plug the amplifier or not.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Great look
- Great tone
- Showing playing technique
Things we did not like
- Usually have issue with battery life
Washburn Woodline O12SE
The Washburn Woodline O12SE owns the mahogany for the body and orchestral shape which creates the warm tone that many people are looking for. The scalloped x-braces on the sturdy mahogany top allows for more flexibility, adding to the resonance and clarity of the sound.
It features a Fishman Isys + electronic preamplification and receiver system with built-in tuners, a combination commonly used by many guitar makers that we often see on higher priced instruments. It also features a NuBone nut and saddle, which is typically only found on more expensive sounds. Finally, we must praise this gorgeous design, which is a perfect combination of rosewood and maple, and asterisks.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Easy to play
- Warm tone
- Great design
Things we did not like
- Not suitable for people like punch of spruce topped guitars
Jameson Blue Thinline
Blue Thinline electric Guitar is one of the best products on the market if you are looking for a low-budget herd. The blue design covering this herd is original and fresh and fades into the almost seamless black edges. The sound of the guitar when plugged in is as good as it was original and that is what marks a good acoustic electric guitar.
You will get a free guitar box, very suitable for carrying travel and keeping the tree safe in your home and you are also picking up a free guitar! Many beginners tend to buy the guitar and forget that they also need to choose if not want to just play fingerstyle. This product has been top-selling for many years and is loved by customers not only because of its attractive price but also for the features that come with this product. The slim body makes it perfect for guitar players of all ages, possibly adults, professionals, or children.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Deep sound and wide range tone
- Cheap price
- Outstanding color and design
- Easy to carry because of thin design
Things we did not like
- Usually have quality control issue
Yamaha APX500
There is one thing quite remarkable about this product is that if you spend most of your time with the amplifier plugs, it has the electronics you need to get loud sound in vivid environments.
The AXP500 is built for the ultimate in comfort and playability, which is why it is designed with a slim body and a slim neck.Naturally, with its slim design and bold cut lines, the 500 points towards the bright end of the spectrum, with a very full and sharp premium tonal range that is extremely suitable for folk which asks for more clarity in the music mix.
In short, this sound is perfect for anyone who wants more control over their amped sound, and a more premium presence for cutting through mixes in live shows.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- <li “=”” dir=”ltr” style=”” tve-u-17438b61f6b”=””>Perfect for playing folk <li “=”” dir=”ltr” style=”” tve-u-17438b61f6b”=””>Sharp tonal range <li “=”” dir=”ltr” style=”” tve-u-17438b61f6b”=””>Helping player show their technique through mixes <li “=”” dir=”ltr” style=”” tve-u-17438b61f6b”=””>Thin body that easy to play or carry <li “=”” dir=”ltr” style=”” tve-u-17438b61f6b”=””>Suitable for beginners as well as advanced players
Things we did not like
- Packages does not include
- Not auto shut off battery
- Sound will be thin and hollow when strumming
Ibanez Performance Series PF15
Ibanez Guitars has always been a very affordable brand name given its sound quality, this product is suitable for everyone, any player can enjoy it. It has a Dreadnought-style body with full sound and a cutout to reach the upper finger. For the side panels and back, the used material that we often see is mahogany. This combination is always one of the best because it has perfect resonance. The black and white audio holes are cast in chrome for precise adjustments. The PF15 cutaway comes with an on-board preamp and pickup system with 2-band EQ tuner, perfect for playing with friends or performing solo. This is truly excellent work at an affordable price.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Affordable
- Beginner-friendly
- Good electronics
Things we did not like
- Need to change strings
Ovation AB24-RR
This type of electric guitar is great for beginners and intermediate players. The guitar contains all the essentials of sound and has the classic Ovation Balladeer style. It has a loud and clear voice, smooth playability, so you will definitely not get tired even when playing continuously for many hours.
High-end features include a layered spruce top for clear tones and medium depth. Rounded Lyrachord body for greater volume and projection, excellent balance, and durability. The instrument also features fast action with a familiar nato configuration. This piano features the Ovation OP-4BT preamp / pickup system with built-in tuner for superior tonal and amplified performance. You will never have a problem playing live with this keyboard. Besides, ovation also offers many different color choices, you can completely choose your favorite color. The AB24-RR ovation acoustic guitar is undoubtedly one of the most popular examples for under $ 200.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Comfortable
- Consistent
- Affordable
Things we did not like
- No outstanding tones
Squier Fender Affinity Stratocaster HSS
This Squier Affinity for beginners features the popular Stratocaster, a dynamic double cut design, and a great tonewood build. Fender’s Squier Affinity has a tall, lightweight body, with a maple neck, and a rosewood keypad. This instrument features two single Strat pickup coils, a humbucking horse, which are popularly used in the HSS series, delivering Strat’s signature sound, fast and full of vibrations.Squier Stratocaster belongs to a sub-brand of Fender, and the value of the keyboard is quite low compared to the value of the sound they deliver. The reason is that all Squier guitars are produced according to Fender’s quality requirements, which still carry Fender’s tunes under the Squier label.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Lightweight
- Humbucking included
Things we did not like
- Not ideal for experienced players
Jackson JS22 Dinky
Jackson is a sub-brand of Fender, specializing in the production of guitars for the mid-range and low-cost segment. JS22 Dinky is an arch top electric guitar, made of deep wood covered with polished polyurethane, for a sharp look. The piano has 24 large-sized frets for the player to comfortably enjoy the music that needs fast pressing speed of rock.The piano features a dual tremolo synchronous bridge, and this raw hardware is offset by a colorful design that offers great aesthetics. A high-performance dual humbucker and quality ceramic magnets onboard, allows the Jackson JS22 to satisfy any technical playing style of electric guitars.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Humbuckers included
- Tremolo key included
- 24 jumbo frets included
- Rock and roll design
- Range of color options
Things we did not like
- Performance won’t match premium, expensive competitors
Ibanez AW54CEOPN Artwood
If you get bored looking at all the classical guitar designs then Ibanez’s product is definitely a party that will satisfy your eyes. They offer you a heavy, solid, laminate mahogany top, covered in a very unique and attractive dark wood grain. The main body is in the familiar dreadnought style but has a cutout to aid those who have difficulty tuning the higher guitar. Besides, Ibanez is also extremely famous for its pure sound.Its laminate mahogany construction allows for a wide range of clear sounds that will appeal to anyone who hears thanks to the open-ended structure that produces a clear and clean sound. The matte finish gives this guitar the look and appeal of the polished real mahogany bark for a great design that is distinct from conventional classical designs. Regardless, if you do decide to invest, I believe you will be amazed at how refined and smooth this guitar offers.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Clear, loud projection
- Solid, mahogany body
- Attractive, matte finish
- Easy to change strings
- Playing easily and comfortability
- Suitable for beginner
Things we did not like
- Limited controls on the amp, not as versatile as other guitars
- Losing richness of tones after a few months
- No Package included
Yamaha CG122MCH Nylon
The Yamaha CG is a well crafted guitar from a top guitar maker. Design ideas from classical guitars, it is finished with a natural matte brown finish. A solid cedar top provides resilience and resonance. The sides and neck are darker brown in perfect contrast with the lighter top. The neck is made of 3-layer nato to prevent buckling under string tension. Finally, the dark monolith rosewood finger panel creates a contrast that matches the top and complements the edges and neck.Whether you are strumming, choosing to play arpeggios and scales, you can hear both sounds resonated and maintained due to the quality of the wood and hard sides. The treble and bass are well balanced, especially through the hole.Low-action guitars mean shorter strings to keyboards and make it easier for beginners to press their fingers and deliver good sound. The head holder and adjustable latch allow for adjustment and disassemble as needed. As your level gets better then you can see how holding the strings produces a cleaner sound. Fuller sound is more likely with a mahogany body, which is part of the much more expensive classic line of guitars on the market.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- High quality construction and materials.
- Low action strings allow easy play even for learners – no more fingertips.
- 3-layer anti-warping neck structure.
- Solid wood top panel gives a beautiful tone.
Things we did not like
- Limitation in depth tone
- No pickup and amplifier included
Yamaha APX500III
PX50III is one of the best electric guitars on the market, it also looks extremely attractive with a choice of different colors: black, sunset red, classic and blue. Once again, Yamaha has proven itself to be a formidable competitor by consistently offering products full of versatility and comfort.There are also three packages to choose from: a spruce top package, a digital school package, and an accessory pack. The digital learners package lets you get started on digital guitar lessons with Fender guitar experts and comes with an additional pair of guitar strings, tuners, and a little learning guide. In addition, you also get a lifetime warranty on the top, body and neck, sides and back of the keyboard. We all know the risks that the guitar will face over the years so having a warranty is essential for anyone who wants to be serious about their profession. Many customers also complimented this guitar for its thin body that allows for excellent control of the guitar and is comfortable to play.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Thin light body, easy to play with
- Suitable for beginners
- The guitar fits snugly against your body for added comfort and ease of play
- Act fast and no buzz hear when plucking
Things we did not like
- Package does not come with bag
- Higher price compared to other products in the same brands
Best Cheap Acoustic Electric Guitar Buyers Guide
Determine The Purpose Of Learning The Guitar
At the stage of learning about musical instruments, you need to first determine what your learning purpose is. This is so important, why? If your goal is simply entertainment, practice for fun, you just need to buy a mid-range guitar that is suitable for your goals. If you think that your future path to art, learning guitar to become a professional Guitarist is another matter, you need to invest in a better, more advanced guitar. Owning a guitar that suits your needs, you not only have easier study conditions but you can also save a decent amount of money. One piece of advice for beginners I want to give you is to clearly define your goal before buying a guitar.
Choose A Guitar Type
There will be questions like should i choose classic or guitar accompaniment? For Classic, it is softer, the melody is smoother, often used to play classical and country music with soft and deep songs; This instrument usually has nylon strings. As for Acoustic Guitar, it is suitable for pop music, folk music and other mainstream forms of music. Acoustic sounds are usually stronger and louder than the sound of a Classic Guitar, using steel strings, the sound is rich, natural and clear. A cheap Acoustic Guitar can not sound great, but for a newcomer to the world of Guitar, practicing on this guitar is not necessarily a bad thing. These two types of instruments differ in sound, so choosing what kind of instrument depends on your personal taste and the genre of music you pursue. In general, the price of the guitar is not much different, but the accompaniment guitar is more popular, so it is more diverse than the Classic Guitar.
Guitar Body Style And Shape
When you first start learning Guitar, the most important thing is that you feel comfortable with the guitar of your choice. Small guitars will suit fingerstyle because the player finds silence. Mid-sized guitars are larger and have a bit more bass, and are designed to suit all styles and bodies. As for the Dreadnought Acoustic Guitar is a huge step forward in musical professionals’ instrument making, so it is very popular with the most popular styles and bodies on the market in recent times. . Finally, the Jumbo Acoustic Guitar is the largest sized guitar, it is less talked about because it is quite difficult to handle the rhythm of the music and often does not have many options for beginners.
Budget
The first thing you need to do before choosing a guitar is to answer the first question we mentioned, what purpose do you play for? It means what kind of music will you play and how often will you play it. Are you looking for a guitar that needs to endure 10-hour daily practice or do you just want to find it as an entertainment tool? If you answer these questions, you will find the right price for your guitar.
Guitars under $ 300 are generally for beginners, over $ 600 is for intermediate guitarists and anything over $ 1000 is considered professional quality. And whether you are a professional player or an amateur, defining your training goals and direction with this art will help you eliminate product ranges in unnecessary price ranges. This makes your selection process easier to choose the best budget acoustic electric guitars.
What Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars Can You Get?
Some of the best budget guitars include the Ibanez PF Series PF15ECE and Glen Burton GA204BCO-BK. Ibanez is made of mahogany and has a sturdy rose-wood neck, beautifully machined, in high contrast to the dark color of the main body. Glen Burton is made of hardwood and is a great choice for those who prefer bright and dry tones compared to other premium colors. If you are looking for quality budget options, keep two types of instruments on your list of priorities
Final Thoughts of Best Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars
Buying an acoustic electric guitar that satisfies your requirement is not so hard. There are numerous things about guitar for you to find out; however, they will be a little bit complicated and challenging for the beginners.
If you would like more information, it is almost always a fantastic idea. Please take a look for my top 3 of best budget acoustic electric guitars.
You may return to a list of acoustic electric guitar and discover the one which meets your budget!
And a final thing before we wrap up is:
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Best for beginner |
Best for entertainer |
Best for advanced player |
I hope this guide will be of some help to you to select the best budget acoustic electric guitars. If you would like to comment or require further information, please use my contact form to get in contact.Have fun!
See more best seller of Acoustic Electric Guitars on Amazon and find the best option for you here!
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