Your first electric guitar shouldn’t be a gamble. You don’t need an expensive instrument to start — but you do need one that’s comfortable, stays in tune and inspires you to keep playing. Here’s how to choose well.
Set a realistic budget — and split it
A common beginner mistake is spending the entire budget on the guitar and nothing on the amp. Plan to split it: a solid starter guitar plus a small practice amp. Excellent beginner guitars exist well under €300 today.
Pick a comfortable body shape
Comfort keeps you practising. The Stratocaster shape is light, contoured and versatile — a safe first choice. Les Paul styles are heavier but feel solid. Sit down with it: if it’s awkward now, it’ll discourage you later.
New or used?
A used guitar can offer more for your money, but inspect it: straight neck, no fret buzz, working electronics, reasonable action. If you can’t assess it yourself, a new instrument from a trusted brand removes the risk.
Beginner-friendly brands
You can’t go wrong with Squier (Fender’s affordable line), Yamaha, Harley Benton or Epiphone. They deliver reliable, in-tune, playable instruments at honest prices. For the full landscape, see our complete electric guitar buyer’s guide.
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Get it set up
Even a great guitar plays poorly if the action is too high or the intonation is off. A basic setup (often inexpensive) transforms playability — budget for one, especially on a used instrument.
And the amp
For home practice you want something small and clean-sounding. Our guide to guitar amps explains tube vs solid-state vs modeling so you pick the right first amp.
En français : voir notre guide apprendre la guitare pour débutant.