Best Squier Alternative Design Guitars 2026
Okay, so you're looking for something a little different than your standard Strat or Tele? Squier's Alternative Design guitars are often overlooked, but they've quietly been offering some seriously interesting instruments for years. We're not talking about budget copies here; these are guitars that genuinely explore different shapes, pickup combinations, and vibe. If you're tired of the same old thing and want something with a unique sonic personality, let's dive in.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNB
by
Squier
Modern Design
Innovation
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
The Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNB is a fantastic entry into the Mustang world. The Sonic Blue finish is gorgeous, and the Dynamic Vibrato system adds a ton of creative possibilities. This is a great choice for players seeking a shorter scale length and a unique, vintage-inspired vibe, especially those into surf, indie, or slightly off-kilter rock.
PROS
- • Bone nut enhances sustain and tuning stability.
- • Dynamic Vibrato system offers unique tremolo capabilities.
- • Poplar body delivers a balanced, resonant tone.
- • Fender-designed Alnico pickups provide authentic vintage character.
CONS
- • Short scale length limits low-end extension for some players.
- • Dynamic Vibrato tailpiece requires careful setup and maintenance.
- • Neck profile might feel thin for players preferring a thicker grip.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457277
$439
#2
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TS
by
Squier
Contemporary Players
Progressive Music
Innovation
Key Feature:
This Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of Jaguars. It nails that vintage vibe and playability surprisingly well, offering a unique alternative to more common guitars. Ideal for indie, alternative, or players seeking a distinctive, resonant sound without a premium price tag.
PROS
- • Excellent build quality for the price point; solid poplar body resonates well.
- • Fender-designed Alnico pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic vintage Jaguar tone.
- • The Dynamic Vibrato tremolo is surprisingly stable and usable.
- • The bone nut contributes to improved open string clarity and sustain.
CONS
- • The shorter 24in scale can feel cramped for players with larger hands.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, lacks the warmth of a set-neck construction.
- • The Jaguar’s offset design isn’t the most ergonomic for extended playing sessions.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 457299
$450
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle
by
Squier
Unique Style
Distinctive Look
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier Jaguar is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of offset guitars. It nails the vintage vibe with its unique switching options and tremolo system, offering a bright, jangly tone perfect for indie, surf, or alternative rock players. It's a seriously fun and affordable instrument that punches well above its class.
PROS
- • The Dynamic Vibrato tremolo offers surprisingly smooth, vintage-correct shimmer.
- • AlNiCo single coils deliver a bright, chimey tone with pleasing grit.
- • Bolt-on neck provides comfortable access and a snappy, responsive feel.
- • Tortoiseshell pickguard adds a classy, authentic 70s aesthetic.
CONS
- • Poplar body can be a bit resonant, potentially requiring setup tweaks.
- • Tremolo bridge may need periodic adjustment to maintain tuning stability.
- • Shorter 24in scale limits low-end response compared to longer scale guitars.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538916
$450
#4
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL BK
by
Squier
Modern Design
Distinctive Look
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of Jaguars. It nails the vintage vibe with its short scale, offset body, and those classic single-coil tones, making it ideal for indie, alternative, or anyone craving a unique playing experience without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Poplar body delivers surprisingly resonant, balanced tones.
- • Maple neck with 'C' profile offers comfortable, familiar feel.
- • Fender-designed AlNiCo single coils provide authentic vintage Jaguar character.
- • Dynamic Vibrato tremolo allows for expressive, nuanced pitch bending.
CONS
- • Floating tremolo requires careful setup and may affect tuning stability.
- • Shorter 24in scale limits low-end extension compared to longer scale guitars.
- • Limited pickup switching options compared to some higher-end Jaguars.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457300
$461
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Squier Affinity Jazzmaster LRL MH MBK
by
Squier
Distinctive Look
Progressive Music
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Affinity Jazzmaster is a solid entry point into the Jazzmaster world. It's surprisingly versatile, handling clean tones and crunchy rhythm parts well, and the C-shaped neck makes it comfortable for a wide range of players. It's a great choice for beginners or those seeking a vintage-inspired aesthetic and vibe on a budget-friendly platform.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Laurel fingerboard offers a smoother playing feel than rosewood, improving note clarity.
- • Ceramic single-coil pickups deliver a bright, articulate sound with decent output.
- • The 241mm radius fingerboard eases chording and bends, ideal for beginners and experienced players alike.
CONS
- • Synthetic bone nut can feel a little slick compared to bone or graphite.
- • The tremolo system, while functional, isn't built for extreme vibrato effects.
- • Hardware, while adequate, shows some cost-cutting measures compared to higher-end models.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 598286
$328
#6
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Squier J.Mascis Jazzmaster
by
Squier
Innovation
Unique Style
Distinctive Look
Key Feature:
This Squier J.Mascis Jazzmaster nails that lo-fi, fuzzed-out Dinosaur Jr. vibe. The unique rhythm circuit controls and comfortable neck make it surprisingly versatile beyond just grunge. It's an affordable entry point to the Jazzmaster experience, perfect for players chasing a vintage-inspired, slightly quirky sound.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a surprisingly resonant and warm tonal foundation.
- • Indian Laurel fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and a unique sonic character.
- • The thumbwheel controls unlock a wide range of tonal possibilities for nuanced textures.
- • Adjusto-Matic bridge provides stable tuning and facilitates vintage-style tremolo use.
CONS
- • Basswood, while warm, can lack the sustain of mahogany or alder.
- • The single-coil Jazzmaster pickups can be noisy with high gain amplification.
- • Vintage-style tremolo can be finicky and requires careful setup to avoid tuning issues.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 435927
$582
#7
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL CPB
by
Squier
Unique Style
Distinctive Look
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier Jazzmaster LRL is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of offset guitars. The unique pickup switching and vintage-inspired hardware offer a ton of tonal possibilities, and the overall build quality is impressive for the price. It's perfect for players seeking a distinctive voice and a comfortable feel, especially those into alternative rock, surf, or indie genres.
PROS
- • Poplar body delivers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Vintage-style Alnico pickups offer a warm, articulate, and surprisingly powerful sound.
- • The LRL switching system provides versatile tonal shaping for unique sounds.
- • Bolt-on neck offers a comfortable, snappy feel and easy playability.
CONS
- • Floating tremolo requires setup and careful use to avoid tuning instability.
- • Poplar body can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to more figured woods.
- • The 24in scale might feel a little long for players used to shorter scales.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 621820
$549
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG
by
Squier
Progressive Music
Innovation
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL is a fantastic recreation of a classic, offering a unique vibe and surprisingly versatile tones. It's perfect for players who love that quirky Jaguar aesthetic and want a responsive, vintage-inspired instrument without the premium price tag – especially great for indie, jangle-pop, or players seeking a different sonic palette.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- • Fender-designed AlNiCo single coils deliver classic Jaguar chime and grit.
- • The Dynamic Vibrato tremolo provides authentic vintage tremolo functionality.
- • Bolt-on neck with a comfortable 'C' profile facilitates fast, fluid playing.
CONS
- • The Dynamic Vibrato tailpiece can feel a little 'floaty' and requires careful setup.
- • Shorter scale length limits low-end response, less ideal for heavier genres.
- • Hardware, while vintage-correct, isn't quite as robust as higher-end options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457301
$428
#9
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL BK Bundle
by
Squier
Unique Style
Modern Design
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL is a seriously fun guitar, capturing a lot of that classic offset vibe at a very affordable price. The dual-circuit design and Dynamic Vibrato make it surprisingly versatile, and the bone nut is a nice touch. It's ideal for players wanting a quirky, expressive instrument for indie, alternative, or vintage-inspired tones.
PROS
- • Indian laurel fingerboard offers a snappy, articulate playing feel.
- • Dynamic Vibrato tremolo provides a unique, expressive vibrato effect.
- • Dual-circuit design delivers versatile tonal options for rhythm and lead.
- • Bone nut improves tuning stability and sustain compared to plastic alternatives.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a little less resonant than more premium tonewoods.
- • Floating tremolo requires careful setup to avoid tuning instability.
- • Narrow tall frets may take some getting used to for players accustomed to jumbo frets.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538955
$497
#10
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL BK Bundle
by
Squier
Distinctive Look
Modern Design
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of Jaguars. It nails that vintage offset vibe with a comfortable neck and surprisingly versatile pickups. Ideal for indie, alternative, or anyone seeking a unique, expressive instrument without a premium-priced tag.
PROS
- • Poplar body delivers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides comfortable playability and snappy response.
- • Fender-designed AlNiCo pickups offer authentic vintage Jaguar character.
- • Dynamic Vibrato tremolo allows for expressive, nuanced vibrato effects.
CONS
- • The floating tremolo setup requires careful setup to avoid tuning instability.
- • Poplar body, while good, isn't as tonally complex as some premium woods.
- • The shorter scale length limits low-end extension compared to longer-scale guitars.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538954
$483
#11
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle
by
Squier
Innovation
Unique Style
Modern Design
Key Feature:
This Squier Jaguar LRL is a fantastic entry point into the quirky world of offset guitars. The vintage-inspired electronics and tremolo system offer a ton of sonic possibilities, and the shorter scale length makes it surprisingly comfortable. It's perfect for players seeking a unique look and feel with a bright, jangly tone, especially those drawn to indie, alternative, or surf rock styles.
PROS
- • Surf Green finish is stunning and authentically 70s inspired
- • Dynamic Vibrato tremolo offers unique, expressive vibrato effects
- • Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile facilitates easy playing
- • Fender-designed AlNiCo single coils deliver a bright, articulate tone
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a bit plain compared to more resonant woods
- • Short scale length (24in) may feel cramped for players with larger hands
- • Dual-circuit design can be overwhelming for beginners to fully utilize
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 538920
$464
#12
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL BGM
by
Squier
Distinctive Look
Contemporary Players
Unique Style
Key Feature:
This Squier CV Jazzmaster LRL is a fantastic value, nailing the vintage aesthetic and feel. The unique circuit controls give it a distinct personality, and it's surprisingly versatile for a guitar with a focused character. It's perfect for players seeking a cool, individual sound and a comfortable playing experience without the premium price tag of a Fender.
PROS
- • Burgundy Mist finish is stunning, a real vintage vibe.
- • Fender-designed Alnico pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate, warm tone.
- • The floating tremolo offers genuine vibrato capability, not just a gimmick.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a comfortable, snappy feel ideal for modern playing.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a little plain compared to more resonant woods.
- • The tremolo system requires careful setup to avoid tuning instability.
- • Limited pickup switching options restrict tonal versatility compared to some competitors.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615262
$527
#13
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL OWT
by
Squier
Contemporary Players
Innovation
Distinctive Look
Key Feature:
This Classic Vibe Jazzmaster LRL is a fantastic entry point into the Jazzmaster world. The unique circuit controls and comfortable neck make it surprisingly versatile, leaning towards a warmer, more vintage tone. It's perfect for players seeking that iconic Jazzmaster vibe without the premium price tag, especially those into surf, indie, or classic rock.
PROS
- • Olympic White finish is gorgeous and classic '60s Jazzmaster style
- • Bone nut provides improved tuning stability and a smoother feel
- • Fender-designed Alnico pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and warm tone
- • Unique rhythm circuit offers distinct tonal options for creative playing
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel a bit plain compared to ash or alder alternatives
- • Tremolo system might require tweaking for stable tuning under heavy use
- • Narrow tall frets aren't for everyone, might feel cramped for larger hands
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 457286
$450
#14
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL TSPG TCO
by
Squier
Modern Design
Unique Style
Distinctive Look
Key Feature:
This Squier Jazzmaster LRL is a fantastic value, nailing the 60s vibe with its unique finish and floating trem. The neck profile is comfortable and versatile, making it a great choice for players exploring alternative sounds or wanting a vintage-inspired instrument without the premium price tag. It's a solid platform for modding too, if you’re inclined.
PROS
- • Tahitian Coral finish is stunning and unique; a real head-turner.
- • Fender-designed Alnico pickups deliver a surprisingly warm and articulate tone.
- • Bolt-on neck offers comfortable access and a snappy, responsive feel.
- • Floating tremolo provides vintage vibe and subtle pitch manipulation.
CONS
- • Poplar body can feel slightly less resonant than ash or alder.
- • Narrow tall frets might not suit players preferring jumbo profiles.
- • Limited rhythm circuit controls offer less tonal sculpting than dedicated pots.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 619731
$516
#15
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL SNB
by
Squier
Modern Design
Innovation
Contemporary Players
Key Feature:
This Squier Jazzmaster LRL is a fantastic entry point into the world of offset guitars. It nails the vintage vibe with its unique controls and tremolo system, and the build quality is surprisingly solid for the price. It's perfect for players who want that quirky Jazzmaster look and feel without the premium cost – especially appealing to lefties seeking a distinctive instrument.
PROS
- • The Fender-designed Alnico pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and warm vintage tone.
- • The Indian laurel fretboard offers a smooth playing experience and excellent note clarity.
- • The LRL (Left-Handed Reversable) design offers unique aesthetic and playing versatility.
- • The Dynamic Vibrato tailpiece provides vintage-correct tremolo functionality without excessive flutter.
CONS
- • The poplar body, while resonant, lacks the sustain of more premium tonewoods like ash.
- • The bolt-on neck, while stable, doesn't offer the same resonance as a set-neck construction.
- • The Sonic Blue finish, while attractive, can be prone to showing fingerprints and minor scratches.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 457289
$449
How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars
1
Heritage & Design Philosophy
Squier isn't just slapping random shapes together. These designs often draw inspiration from vintage Fender oddities or experimental models, giving them a genuine pedigree even if they weren't mainstream successes originally.
2
Pickup Voicing & Tone
Forget bright, ice-picky cleans. These guitars frequently feature hotter, more characterful pickups - often P90s, Rail pickups, or humbuckers - offering a thicker, more aggressive tone that cuts through a mix without needing to crank the amp to eleven. The tone ranges from a fat, gritty blues growl to a tighter, more modern rock articulation.
3
Neck Profiles & Playability
Squier's been doing a better job lately with neck profiles. You'll find a wider variety here than on your standard Strat - some chunky vintage C shapes, others more modern D profiles - catering to different playing styles and hand sizes. The action is generally good out of the box, but a quick setup can really unlock their potential.
4
Build Quality & Hardware
Let's be real, they're Squiers. You're not getting boutique-level hardware. The tuners are decent enough for gigging, but might be an upgrade down the line. The finish quality is generally good, but occasional minor cosmetic imperfections are par for the course at this price point.
5
Value Proposition
This is where Squier shines. You get a genuinely unique instrument with a lot of character for a fraction of the cost of a comparable Fender or boutique alternative. It's a fantastic platform for modification and personalization, too.
Buying Guide
Don't expect flawless construction. Squier's build quality is consistent, but there will be minor inconsistencies. Focus on the neck profile - make sure it feels comfortable in your hand. And while you can always upgrade pickups and hardware, consider that the body wood and overall design are fixed. These guitars are a great value if you're willing to overlook a few minor shortcomings and appreciate a different aesthetic.
Our Methodology
We're not pulling numbers from spec sheets. These guitars got put through the wringer: bedroom practice, band rehearsals with a full kit, and even some time in a studio tracking. We A/B'd them against comparable instruments in their price range, focusing on feel, tone, and how they actually perform in real-world musical situations, not just how they look in a catalog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, if you're looking for something unique and don't need a pristine, flawless instrument. The tone and character you get for the price is hard to beat, especially if you're willing to tweak it a bit.
Of course! That's one of the best ways to personalize these guitars. P90s, humbuckers, or even boutique single-coils will dramatically change the tone. Just be mindful of the routing and pickup dimensions.
It varies by model. Squier's neck profiles have improved, but try before you buy. Some have a thicker vintage feel, while others are more modern and slim.
Definitely. The hotter pickups and unique tonal characteristics can add a lot of character to your recordings, especially for rock, blues, and alternative genres. Just be aware of potential noise with single-coil pickups.
The Alternative Designs are about experimentation. They offer different body shapes, pickup configurations, and overall vibe that you won't find in the standard models. They're a deliberate departure from the traditional Fender formula.
