Electric Guitars

When choosing an electric guitar, start with how the instrument feels in your hands, the sound you want from the pickups and the tuning you play in. Body shape affects comfort when sitting or standing, scale length changes the feel under your fingers, and the number of strings determines the available range. A beginner will usually benefit from a comfortable six-string instrument with straightforward controls, while a more experienced player may deliberately seek an unconventional design or extended range. For a closer look at the whole decision process, read our guide on how to choose an electric guitar.

Choose the shape for comfort, not looks alone

Start by comparing electric guitars by shape. Body contours, weight, upper-fret access and control placement determine whether a guitar remains comfortable during longer sessions. Classic ST models tend to have contoured bodies and several pickup combinations, while T models appeal to players looking for simple controls and a direct character. Singlecut models have a different balance and feel; with any shape, check the actual weight, neck profile and strap-button placement.

Pickups determine how the guitar responds to an amplifier

Single-coil pickups generally emphasise a clear, articulate response and closely reflect picking dynamics. A humbucker uses two coils: it usually delivers a fuller signal and reduces some mains hum, which is useful with heavier distortion. A coil-split function disconnects one coil of a humbucker and expands the available sound palette, although the result may not sound exactly like a dedicated single-coil. Choose a configuration according to whether you need clean sounds, a denser distorted tone or quick switching between the two.

Scale length, size and string count change the playing feel

With the same tuning and string gauge, a longer scale usually feels tighter, while a shorter scale feels softer when fretting notes and bending strings. The instrument's overall size also matters. More compact 3/4-size electric guitars may suit a smaller player or travel, while 4/4-size models represent the usual full size. The label alone does not replace checking nut width, neck profile and weight.

Six strings cover most common tunings and provide a natural starting point for learning. Seven-string guitars add a lower register without giving up the standard range of the upper strings. Eight-string guitars reach lower still, but require a wider neck and different work from both hands. For down-tuning, consider scale length, string gauge and the instrument setup together.

Match the guitar to your music and experience

Your first instrument

At the beginning, a comfortable neck, stable tuning and clear controls are more valuable than a large number of switches. Pick an instrument that suits your build and the music you genuinely want to play. Keep part of your budget for an amplifier, cable, tuner and protection during transport.

Rock, blues, jazz and heavier genres

For blues, indie or classic rock, a single-coil configuration or a combination of single-coil and humbucker can be practical. A humbucker is often chosen for heavier distortion, but pickups are not the only deciding factor — the amplifier, effects, tuning and technique all make a substantial difference. The Hard & Heavy category helps narrow the choice to designs aimed at heavier styles. If you want a more open, acoustically coloured voice and a different body response, compare semi-acoustic guitars as well.

Modern designs and extended options

Multiscale guitars use a different scale length for individual strings, which can help balance the playing feel, particularly in extended tunings. Headless guitars tune without a conventional headstock and alter the instrument's weight distribution. For players interested in digital control or direct connectivity where offered by the specific model, modeling, MIDI and USB guitars provide a separate route.

Protection and essential accessories

Before ordering, check what is included with the specific model. For home playing you need suitable amplification, an instrument cable and a tuner; for carrying the guitar, add a gig bag or hard case that fits its shape. You can find a strap, spare strings, a stand and basic care items in electric guitar accessories. This way you are not choosing from a photo alone: you are comparing ergonomics, pickups, scale length, string count and the equipment that fits the way you play.