Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $500 2025

Affordable alternative design guitars under $500 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: November 12, 2025 • Next update: November 19, 2025

PRICE RANGES: Under $200 Under $300 Under $500 Under $800 Under $1,000 Under $2,000 Under $5,000

SKILL LEVELS: For Beginner For Intermediate For Professional For Advanced

GENRES & STYLES: For Modern Design For Unique Style For Progressive Music For Contemporary Players For Innovation For Distinctive Look

BRANDS: Fender Harley Benton Danelectro Reverend Squier Epiphone Rickenbacker Ibanez Evh Traveler Guitar Larry Carlton Duesenberg Suhr Guild Höfner Sterling by Music Man Steinberger Guitars DAngelico

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe BK

by Steinberger Guitars

Innovation Progressive Music Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• May not suit traditional players

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe BKElectric GuitarDesign: HeadlessBody: BasswoodSide parts of body: Maple3-Piece maple...

⭐ 4.6/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 261837

$468

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.8/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst

by Larry Carlton

Innovation Modern Design Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Higher cost for unique design

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone SunburstElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: EbonyWhite stripes...

⭐ 4.8/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584301

$472

Buy at Thomann View Details

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe HR - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.8/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe HR

by Steinberger Guitars

Progressive Music Innovation Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe HRElectric GuitarBuild: HeadlessBody side parts made of basswood3-Piece...

⭐ 4.8/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 449976

$472

Buy at Thomann View Details

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light LH MBK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 5.0/5 (8 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light LH MBK

by Traveler Guitar

Distinctive Look Innovation Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Limited mainstream appeal

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light LH MBKElectric Travel GuitarLeft-handed modelScale: 625 mmPassive...

⭐ 5.0/5 (8 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 440747

$384

Buy at Thomann View Details

Epiphone Coronet Ebony - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Epiphone Coronet Ebony

by Epiphone

Progressive Music Modern Design Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Limited mainstream appeal

Epiphone Coronet EbonyElectric GuitarBody shape: WilshireBody: MahoganyNeck: MahoganyFretboard: Indian LaurelNeck...

⭐ 4.6/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 502832

$439

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.4/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG

by Squier

Progressive Music Innovation Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Squier SQ CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFGElectric GuitarClassic Vibe seriesBody: PoplarBolt-on neck: MapleFretboard: Indian...

⭐ 4.4/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 457301

$428

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 White - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (48 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Larry Carlton J5 White

by Larry Carlton

Distinctive Look Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Larry Carlton J5 WhiteElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: EbonyWhite stripes fingerboard...

⭐ 4.9/5 (48 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 584308

$488

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic

by Larry Carlton

Modern Design Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• May not suit traditional players

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold MetallicElectric GuitarBody: AlderBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: EbonyNeck Profile:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584310

$494

Buy at Thomann View Details

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY

by Steinberger Guitars

Distinctive Look Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HYHeadless Electric GuitarBody: Basswood3-Strip maple neckFingerboard: SatinwoodSlim...

⭐ 4.6/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 449531

$483

Buy at Thomann View Details

Epiphone Wilshire P-90 Cherry - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.9/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Epiphone Wilshire P-90 Cherry

by Epiphone

Contemporary Players Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Epiphone Wilshire P-90 CherryElectric GuitarBody shape: WilshireBody: MahoganyNeck: MahoganyFretboard: Indian...

⭐ 4.9/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 502834

$482

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.5/5 (2 reviews)

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:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle*Bundle offer comprising*, Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG*Electric Guitar*Classic Vibe...

⭐ 4.5/5 (2 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 538920

$464

Buy at Thomann View Details

Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series Bundle - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.5/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series Bundle

by Harley Benton

Innovation Unique Style Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Higher cost for unique design

Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series Bundle*Bundle offer comprising*, Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series*12-String...

⭐ 4.5/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 599187

$325

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.5/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNB

by Squier

Modern Design Innovation Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNBElectric GuitarClassic Vibe SeriesBody: PoplarBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: Indian...

⭐ 4.5/5 (3 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 457277

$439

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J3 Blue - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Larry Carlton J3 Blue

by Larry Carlton

Innovation Distinctive Look Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Resale value uncertainty

Larry Carlton J3 BlueElectric GuitarBody: MahoganyBolt-on neck: mapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite stripes fingerboard...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 584280

$384

Buy at Thomann View Details

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe FB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.7/5 (30 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe FB

by Steinberger Guitars

Distinctive Look Innovation Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe FBHeadless Electric GuitarBody: BasswoodSides of the body are made from maple3-Piece...

⭐ 4.7/5 (30 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 449975

$472

Buy at Thomann View Details

How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars

Budget Planning

• Under $200: Entry-level
• $200-$500: Intermediate
• $500-$1000: Advanced
• $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

• Sound clarity & tone
• Build materials & finish
• Hardware durability
• Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

• Your musical style
• Skill level match
• Intended use case
• Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Higher-priced alternative design guitars typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

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Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $500 2025

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe BK

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe HR

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light LH MBK

Epiphone Coronet Ebony

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG

Larry Carlton J5 White

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe HY

Epiphone Wilshire P-90 Cherry

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle

Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series Bundle

Squier CV 60s Mustang LRL SNB

Larry Carlton J3 Blue

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe FB

How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying alternative design guitars?

How much should I spend on alternative design guitars?

Are expensive alternative design guitars worth the investment?

What are the best brands for alternative design guitars?

Should I buy alternative design guitars online or in-store?

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