Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $500 2025

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

Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 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 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

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

Larry Carlton J3 Silver - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (39 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J3 Silver

by Larry Carlton

Distinctive Look Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Larry Carlton J3 SilverElectric GuitarBody: MahoganyBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite stripes fingerboard...

⭐ 4.7/5 (39 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584296

$384

Buy at Thomann View Details

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light Maple - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (48 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light Maple

by Traveler Guitar

Distinctive Look Unique Style Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Higher cost for unique design

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light MapleTraveler Electric GuitarBody: MapleNeck-through: MapleFretboard: Black...

⭐ 4.5/5 (48 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 441397

$384

Buy at Thomann View Details

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

⭐ 5.0/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL SNB

by Squier

Modern Design Innovation Contemporary Players

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Higher cost for unique design

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

⭐ 5.0/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 457289

$449

Buy at Thomann View Details

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe w/Bag - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe w/Bag

by Harley Benton

Innovation Unique Style Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• Resale value uncertainty

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe w/Bag*Bundle offer comprising*, Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe...

⭐ 4.6/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 545020

$351

Buy at Thomann View Details

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

⭐ 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

Larry Carlton J3 Vintage White - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (42 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

9/10

Larry Carlton J3 Vintage White

by Larry Carlton

Unique Style Distinctive Look Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Larry Carlton J3 Vintage WhiteElectric GuitarBody: MahoganyNeck: Bolt-on mapleFingerboard: RosewoodWhite stripes...

⭐ 4.6/5 (42 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 584289

$406

Buy at Thomann View Details

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe Series - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe Series

by Harley Benton

Progressive Music Modern Design Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe SeriesElectric GuitarBody: MahoganySet-in neck: MahoganyFretboard:...

⭐ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 392208

$329

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 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

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

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TS - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.5/5 (20 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TS

by Squier

Contemporary Players Progressive Music Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Higher cost for unique design

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TSElectric GuitarClassic Vibe SeriesBody: PoplarBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: Indian...

⭐ 4.5/5 (20 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 457299

$450

Buy at Thomann View Details

Epiphone Coronet Ebony - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 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

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

#14

⭐ 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

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.4/5 (53 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light Black

by Traveler Guitar

Contemporary Players Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• Resale value uncertainty

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light BlackElectric Travel GuitarBody: East American mapleNeck: East American mapleNeck...

⭐ 4.4/5 (53 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 462387

$384

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.

Related Best Lists

POPULAR

Best Single Cut Guitars

Best Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars

TOP

Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $500 2025

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe HR

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst

Larry Carlton J3 Silver

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra-Light Maple

Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL SNB

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe w/Bag

Steinberger Guitars Gt-Pro Deluxe FB

Larry Carlton J3 Vintage White

Harley Benton BM-75 Trans Red Deluxe Series

Larry Carlton J5 Champagne Gold Metallic

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL SFG Bundle

Squier CV 70s Jaguar LRL 3TS

Epiphone Coronet Ebony

Steinberger Guitars GT-Pro Deluxe BK

Traveler Guitar Electric Ultra Light Black

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?

Related Best Lists

Best ST Style Guitars

Best Humbucker Pickups

Best Distortion Pedals

Best Single Cut Guitars

Best Dreadnought Acoustic Guitars

Best 4/4 Size Classical Guitars

Cookie Preferences

Essential Cookies

Analytics Cookies

Functional Cookies

Marketing Cookies