Best 4-String P-Basses Under $500 2026
So, you need a P-Bass tone without breaking the bank? It's totally doable. Forget those marketing buzzwords - we're talking about getting a solid, reliable instrument that'll lay down a foundation without costing you a month's rent. This list focuses on 4-string Precision basses you can realistically snag for under $500, and we'll be brutally honest about what you're getting.
Last updated: October 8, 2026
⚡ The best 4-string p-basses in 2026 are Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series Bundle (top pick), Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series w/Bag for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $133–$496, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Weight
7.5 kg
Blues
Alternative
Pop
Key Feature:
This PJ-74 bundle is a serious contender for beginners or players wanting a vintage-inspired P/J bass without the premium price tag. The combination of the Roswell and JBA pickups provides a wide range of tones, from smooth lows to articulate highs, and the included amp gets you playing right out of the box. It's a fantastic entry point into the bass world.
PROS
- • Roswell/JBA pickups deliver a surprisingly versatile, punchy tone.
- • Canadian maple neck offers a comfortable, familiar 'D' profile feel.
- • Deluxe brass saddles improve sustain and intonation accuracy.
- • HB-20B amp provides decent clean tones and basic shaping options.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a little 'soft' and prone to dents.
- • Laurel fretboard may require some initial fretwork for optimal playability.
- • Limited amp features restrict advanced tone sculpting possibilities.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 536993
$267
Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series w/Bag
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Rock
Classic Rock
Blues
Key Feature:
The PJ-74 VW is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It nails that classic P-Bass thump blended with a touch of J-Bass brightness, making it a great all-rounder for rock, funk, and even some blues. This is perfect for beginners or players looking for a budget-friendly, versatile workhorse bass.
PROS
- • Roswell PBA pickup delivers a surprisingly warm and articulate low-end.
- • Canadian maple neck offers a comfortable, familiar 'D' profile feel.
- • Laurel fingerboard provides a smoother playing experience than rosewood.
- • Deluxe brass saddles enhance sustain and improve intonation slightly.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a bit 'soft' and prone to dents with rough handling.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits the overall resonance and sustain potential.
- • Vintage-style machine heads may lack the precision of higher-end options.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 536991
$218
Harley Benton PJ-74 VW Vintage Series
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Pop
Blues
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PJ-74 is a seriously impressive value, nailing that classic P-bass vibe with a welcome single-coil bite. It’s a fantastic option for players seeking a vintage-inspired tone and comfortable feel without the premium price tag – perfect for blues, rock, and Motown styles.
PROS
- • Roswell PBA pickup delivers a surprisingly authentic, warm P-bass tone.
- • Canadian maple neck with a comfortable 'D' profile feels well-played and stable.
- • Laurel fingerboard offers a smooth playing experience with a slightly warmer tone than rosewood.
- • Deluxe brass saddles improve sustain and intonation compared to standard hardware.
CONS
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of mahogany or ash.
- • Vintage-style machine heads might not offer the precision of locking tuners.
- • Limited tonal versatility; excels at vintage tones, less suited for modern genres.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 409652
$200
Marcus Miller P6-4 Sandblasted Inca Silver
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Fingerboard radius
241 mm (9.49")
Body
Mahogany body
Fingerboard
Rosewood fingerboard
Rock
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This Marcus Miller P6-4 is a seriously well-equipped bass. It's a fantastic all-rounder, nailing everything from funky grooves to heavier rock tones thanks to those versatile pickups and the Heritage-3 electronics. Ideal for gigging musicians needing a reliable and great-sounding instrument without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Mahogany/Ash body provides warm, resonant, and articulate tones.
- • Marcus Super-PJ Revolution pickups offer a versatile, modern sound.
- • Heritage-3 electronics provide extensive tonal shaping options.
- • Bolt-on neck delivers comfortable playability and snappy response.
CONS
- • Rosewood fretboard may feel a bit dry to some players; consider oiling.
- • Mahogany body can make it a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- • Sandblasted Inca Silver finish, while striking, can be prone to minor scratches.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 610818
$496
Jackson JS2 Spectra Bass QSV
by
Jackson
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Classic Rock
Country
Alternative
Key Feature:
This bass is great for players who want a bright, fast feel and tight lows. The active electronics let you adjust the sound easily, but single coils can get noisy with lots of gain. It fits well in a budget-friendly setup for rock and metal.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body offers a bright, punchy attack for rock players.
- • Maple bolt-on neck provides a fast, responsive feel under the fingers.
- • Active electronics let you shape tone with blend and bass boost controls.
- • J-style and P-style pickups deliver a classic, tight low-end response.
CONS
- • Single coil pickups can sound noisy in high-gain settings.
- • No weight spec is listed, so heft might be unknown to buyers.
- • Lacks humbuckers or active EQ options for a wider tonal range.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 634681
$264
Jackson JS2 Spectra Bass STN BLK
by
Jackson
Nut width
38.1 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
24 frets
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Rock
Country
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This bass feels solid thanks to the poplar body and maple neck. The J and P pickups give you that classic, punchy tone you know and love. It's a straightforward hardtail, so it's great for tight rhythm playing, but the lack of weight info is a bit odd. It fits anyone who wants a reliable, affordable workhorse without extra bells and whistles.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body keeps the bass heavy and tight.
- • Maple neck offers a stable, smooth playing surface.
- • J-style and P-style single coils give a classic punch.
- • Active electronics let you shape the sound easily.
CONS
- • Hardtail bridge limits sustain and vibrato options.
- • Laurel fingerboard can wear down faster than rosewood.
- • No weight spec listed makes shipping and comfort guesswork.
⭐
4.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 634683
$250
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Seafoam Green w/Case
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Blues
Rock
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive value. The combination of alder, caramelized maple, and custom pickups delivers a surprisingly versatile and warm P-bass tone – perfect for gigging musicians on a budget who want a quality instrument that looks and feels great.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, fast playing experience.
- • Custom-wound VJB/VPB pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and warm tone.
- • Solid hardware, including brass saddles, enhances tuning stability and sustain.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction, while stable, lacks the sustain of a neck-through design.
- • Roseacer fretboard might feel slightly less refined compared to ebony or maple.
- • The Seafoam Green finish, while visually appealing, may be prone to scratches.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597797
$292
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Daphne Blue w/Case
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Classic Rock
Country
Alternative
Key Feature:
This MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive offering for the price. The build quality is surprisingly good, and the pickups deliver a fantastic vintage P-bass vibe, perfect for rock, blues, and Motown. It's a fantastic entry point for beginners or a great backup for seasoned players.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, fast feel and enhanced high-end response.
- • Custom-wound Alnico 5 pickups deliver a warm, punchy P-bass tone with clarity.
- • Deluxe case provides excellent protection and portability, a surprising value addition.
CONS
- • Graphite nut can sometimes be a little stiff initially, requiring adjustment.
- • Bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set-neck construction.
- • Parchement pickguard might chip or scratch with heavy use – a purely aesthetic concern.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597788
$289
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Natural w/Case
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Country
Pop
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized maple neck feels fantastic, and the custom pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic vintage P-bass growl. It's a fantastic choice for players wanting that classic P-bass tone and feel without the premium price tag – perfect for gigging musicians or those just starting out.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain
- • Caramelized maple neck offers a surprisingly smooth and fast playing experience
- • Custom-wound pickups provide a surprisingly articulate and punchy vintage P-bass tone
- • Deluxe case provides excellent protection and makes transport easy
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the warmth of a set-neck design
- • Roseacer fretboard might feel slightly less refined than ebony or maple
- • Sung Il bridge, while functional, isn't a premium component and may benefit from an upgrade
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 597793
$289
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Natural
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Blues
Classic Rock
Rock
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive package for the money. It nails that classic P-bass vibe with a surprisingly refined feel and those custom pickups really deliver a punchy, vintage tone. It's perfect for gigging musicians or anyone wanting a workhorse P-bass without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Alder body provides a balanced, resonant foundation for a classic P-bass tone.
- • Caramelized maple neck offers surprisingly smooth playability and a touch of sweetness.
- • Custom-wound VJB pickups deliver a powerful, articulate sound with vintage character.
- • Sung Il bridge with brass riders enhances sustain and tuning stability noticeably.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction lacks the inherent warmth and complexity of a set-neck.
- • Roseacer skunk stripe may not appeal to players preferring a more traditional feel.
- • Alder body, while good, might feel a bit light for some players' preferences.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570695
$256
Harley Benton MV-4PJ Daphne Blue
Nut width
38 mm (1.5")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
D-shape neck
Body
Alder body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Pop
Alternative
Classic Rock
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton MV-4PJ is a seriously impressive value. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, and the pickup combination offers a versatile range of tones from mellow P-bass warmth to a punchier mid-range growl. It's perfect for players looking for a classic P-bass vibe without the premium price tag, especially those in rock, blues, or funk bands.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a warm, resonant foundation with excellent sustain.
- • Caramelized maple neck provides a smooth, fast feel and enhanced high-end clarity.
- • Custom-wound Alnico 5 pickups offer a surprisingly articulate and punchy tone.
- • Sung Il bridge with brass saddles improves sustain and tuning stability.
CONS
- • Bolt-on neck construction may lack the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Roseacer skunk stripe fretboard can feel visually distracting to some players.
- • Parchement pickguard feels a little cheap compared to other components.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 570709
$256
Harley Benton PB-62CC Olympic White
Nut width
43 mm (1.69")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Fingerboard radius
305 mm (12.01")
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Basswood body
Fingerboard
Laurel fingerboard
Alternative
Country
Pop
Key Feature:
This budget-friendly bass feels great for beginners thanks to its smooth maple neck and solid feel. The classic AlNiCo pickups give a warm, vintage sound that many players love. While it lacks modern EQ options, it's a perfect starter tool for learning the basics.
PROS
- • Affordable entry point for new bassists
- • Vintage maple neck with comfortable C profile
- • AlNiCo 5 pickups offer classic warm tone
- • Solid bolt-on construction for stability
CONS
- • No active electronics boost for cut
- • Single tone control limits frequency shaping
- • Lightweight body may feel thin in hands
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 590429
$178
Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage Series Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Rock
Country
Alternative
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 FR is a seriously impressive offering for the budget-conscious bassist. It nails the vintage P-bass vibe with its warm tone and comfortable neck, making it a great starting point or a fantastic beater for gigging. If you’re after classic P-bass sounds without the premium price tag, this bundle delivers.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, punchy low-end characteristic of vintage P-basses.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickups provide a surprisingly authentic vintage single-coil tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a snappy, responsive feel ideal for quicker playing.
- • Accessory pack provides immediate playability - gig bag, strap, tuner included.
CONS
- • Basswood body can lack sustain compared to mahogany or other denser woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction may not appeal to players seeking a more integrated feel.
- • Finish, while attractive, may be a thinner nitro finish, more prone to wear.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 560999
$155
Harley Benton PB-50 SB Vintage Series Bundle
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Blues
Alternative
Country
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton PB-50 SB is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic P-Bass vibe with a surprisingly good Roswell pickup, making it ideal for beginners or players wanting a vintage tone without spending a fortune. The included accessory pack is a great bonus for getting started right away.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a warm, rounded tone suitable for vintage styles.
- • Roswell VTN4 pickup provides a surprisingly articulate and punchy single-coil sound.
- • Bolt-on maple neck offers a bright, snappy feel and easy adjustability.
- • Accessory pack adds immediate playability; gig bag, strap, tuner included.
CONS
- • Basswood can lack sustain compared to mahogany or ash; a minor trade-off.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits high-end upgrade potential and sustain.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a bit basic and could benefit from an upgrade.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 560979
$151
Harley Benton PB-50 SB Vintage Series
Nut width
42 mm (1.65")
Scale
864 mm (34.02")
Frets
20 frets
Neck profile
C-shape neck
Body
Poplar body
Fingerboard
Maple fingerboard
Alternative
Pop
Rock
Key Feature:
The PB-50 SB is a seriously impressive bass for the money. It nails that classic P-bass vibe, offering a warm, punchy tone perfect for rock, blues, and Motown. This is a fantastic entry-level instrument or a great beater for gigging musicians who want that vintage feel without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Roswell VTN4 pickup delivers surprisingly authentic vintage P-bass tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Basswood body offers a lightweight feel, easing extended playing sessions.
- • Deluxe chrome hardware elevates the aesthetic beyond the budget price point.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while lightweight, lacks the sustain of more premium woods.
- • Bolt-on neck construction limits upper fret access compared to set necks.
- • While decent, the hardware isn't quite on par with higher-end brands.
⭐
5.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
10/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 307763
$133
Every 4-string p-basses that matches
62 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
| # | Model | Specifications | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | Harley Benton PB-50 FR Vintage Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $133 |
| 17 | Squier Affinity P Bass MN PJ O Bundle | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $330 |
| 18 | Squier Affinity P Bass PJ LPB Bundle | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $330 |
| 19 | Squier Affinity P Bass MN PJ B Bundle | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $319 |
| 20 | Squier Affinity P Bass PJ LPB | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $301 |
| 21 | Squier Affinity P Bass MN PJ OW | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $301 |
| 22 | Harley Benton MV-4P Burgundy Mist w/Case | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $289 |
| 23 | Harley Benton MV-4P Shell Pink w/Case | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $289 |
| 24 | Harley Benton MV-4P Seafoam Green w/Case | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $289 |
| 25 | Harley Benton MV-4PJ Black w/Case | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $289 |
| 26 | Squier Affinity P Bass MN PJ BK | Nut width 41.3 mm (1.63") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $289 |
| 27 | Harley Benton PB-62HA OW | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $278 |
| 28 | Harley Benton PB-62LA OW | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile D-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $278 |
| 29 | Harley Benton PB-62HA BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $278 |
| 30 | Harley Benton PB-62LA BK | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $278 |
| 31 | Harley Benton MV-4P Shell Pink | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 32 | Harley Benton MV-4P Daphne Blue | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 33 | Harley Benton MV-4P Burgundy Mist | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 34 | Harley Benton MV-4P Seafoam Green | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 35 | Harley Benton MV-4PJ Black | Nut width 38 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Body Alder body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $256 |
| 36 | Squier Sonic P Bass LRL MNB | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $200 |
| 37 | Harley Benton PB-62 Sunburst | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 305 mm (12.01") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $178 |
| 38 | Harley Benton PB-20 SBK Standard Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $144 |
| 39 | Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard Serie Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $144 |
| 40 | Harley Benton PB-20 BK Standard Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $122 |
| 41 | Harley Benton Enhanced MP-4MN Natural Bundle | Nut width 39 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $345 |
| 42 | Harley Benton Enhanced MP-4MN Natural | Nut width 39 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Fingerboard radius 355.6 mm (14") · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $334 |
| 43 | Harley Benton PB-50 LH SB Vintage Ser Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Neck profile C-shape neck | $155 |
| 44 | Harley Benton PJ-4 HTR Deluxe Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Body Poplar body | $144 |
| 45 | Harley Benton Bass Guitar Kit P-Style | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Frets 20 frets · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $111 |
| 46 | Marcus Miller P5 Alder-4 MLG | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Fingerboard radius 241 mm (9.49") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $479 |
| 47 | Markbass MB Yellow PB | Nut width 36 mm (1.42") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $334 |
| 48 | Squier Sonic Precision Califor Bundle | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $248 |
| 49 | Squier Sonic Precision 2TSB | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $220 |
| 50 | Squier Sonic Precision California BL | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Maple fingerboard | $218 |
| 51 | Squier Sonic Precision Black | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body · Fingerboard Laurel fingerboard | $200 |
| 52 | Harley Benton Enhanced MP-4EB Creme Bundle | Nut width 39 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Weight 7.5 kg | $424 |
| 53 | Squier CV 50s P Bass MN WHB | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $491 |
| 54 | Squier CV 70s P Bass MN WN | Nut width 43 mm (1.69") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $479 |
| 55 | Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series w/Bag | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $173 |
| 56 | Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series Bundle | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $167 |
| 57 | Harley Benton PJ-4 SBK Deluxe Series | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") · Body Poplar body | $155 |
| 58 | Squier CV 60s P-Bass LRL OWT | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $468 |
| 59 | Squier CV 60s P-Bass LRL 3TS | Nut width 42.8 mm (1.69") · Neck profile C-shape neck · Body Poplar body | $412 |
| 60 | Jackson JS2P Spectra Bass BB | Nut width 38.1 mm (1.5") · Frets 24 frets | $368 |
| 61 | Harley Benton Enhanced MP-4EB Creme | Nut width 39 mm (1.54") · Scale 864 mm (34.02") | $334 |
| 62 | Marcus Miller P5R Alder-4 TS | Nut width 42 mm (1.65") · Neck profile C-shape neck | $491 |
4-String P-Basses by the numbers
Measured across all 62 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
Price
median $264
from $133 to $479
Nut width
median 41.3 mm (1.63")
from 38 mm (1.5") to 43 mm (1.69") · 62 models
Scale
median 864 mm (34.02")
from 864 mm (34.02") to 864 mm (34.02") · 57 models
Frets
median 20
from 20 to 24 · 23 models
Fingerboard
laurel, maple, rosewood
most common · 43 models
Body
poplar, alder, basswood
most common · 46 models
Neck profile
C, D
most common · 31 models
Fingerboard radius
median 305 mm (12.01")
from 241 mm (9.49") to 305 mm (12.01") · 30 models
How to Choose the Best 4-String P-Basses
1
Neck Profile
This is critical. A thick, unwieldy neck will kill your speed and comfort, while a too-thin neck can feel noodly. Expect some variation in this price range - try before you buy if possible.
2
Pickup Voicing
Budget P-Bass pickups often lack the nuanced midrange and clarity of pricier models. You'll likely get a darker, more fundamental tone - which can be great for certain styles, but may require EQ adjustments in a mix.
3
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners and a flimsy bridge are a recipe for frustration. They'll affect tuning stability and sustain. Don't expect locking tuners, but look for something that holds a tune reasonably well.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Most basses in this range will be poplar or basswood - perfectly serviceable, but don't expect resonant mahogany or ash. Bolt-on necks are the norm, which is fine, but joint quality matters - check for clean, tight connections.
5
Finish & Aesthetics
Let's be real, the finish won't be flawless. Expect some minor blemishes or inconsistencies. Focus on the playability and tone, not the cosmetic perfection.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're making trade-offs. The biggest corners cut are usually in the pickups and hardware. Don't expect vintage-accurate tones or incredible sustain. However, a well-chosen bass can still deliver a solid, reliable performance and be a great starting point for upgrades down the line. Prioritize playability and a comfortable neck profile - you can always swap pickups later.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 62 4-string p-basses from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The mojo and nuanced tone of a vintage P-Bass are a product of decades of aging and premium components. You'll get a P-Bass style tone, but it'll be more raw and fundamental.
Not necessarily. A well-made bolt-on neck can be perfectly stable and offer excellent access to the higher frets. It's more about the quality of the joint than the construction method itself.
Both are lightweight and offer a relatively neutral tone. Poplar can sometimes have a slightly tighter low-end, but the difference is subtle. Don't sweat the wood too much - the pickups have a bigger impact on the overall sound.
Absolutely! Pickups are the easiest and most impactful upgrade you can make. A simple swap can drastically improve the tone and articulation of a budget bass.
Make sure there's no excessive bow or back-bow. The action should be comfortable - not too high, not too low. Check the fret ends for sharpness - they shouldn't be digging into your hand.
