Best Alternative Design Guitars Under $800 2026

Affordable alternative design guitars under $800 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: January 28, 2026 • Next update: February 4, 2026

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 Epiphone Squier Ibanez Rickenbacker Evh Duesenberg Larry Carlton Traveler Guitar Guild Suhr Höfner DAngelico Steinberger Guitars Sterling by Music Man

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black

by Sterling by Music Man

Unique Style Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May not suit traditional players

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans BlackElectric GuitarBody: JabonTop: flamed maple veneerNeck: Bolt-on...

⭐ 4.7/5 (26 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 585163

$582

Buy at Thomann View Details

Traveler Guitar Pro Series Mod X - Matte Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Traveler Guitar Pro Series Mod X - Matte Black

by Traveler Guitar

Distinctive Look Progressive Music Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Traveler Guitar Pro Series Mod X - Matte Black6-String Travel GuitarBody: East American mapleNeck: East American...

⭐ 4.5/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 463418

$549

Buy at Thomann View Details

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Stain Pink - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (55 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Stain Pink

by Sterling by Music Man

Modern Design Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• Limited mainstream appeal

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Stain PinkElectric GuitarBody: JabonTop: flamed maple veneerNeck: Bolt-on...

⭐ 4.7/5 (55 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 585153

$604

Buy at Thomann View Details

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

⭐ 4.5/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LH

by Larry Carlton

Modern Design Distinctive Look Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Limited mainstream appeal

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LHElectric GuitarLeft-handed modelBody: AlderNeck: Bolt-on mapleFingerboard:...

⭐ 4.5/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 584316

$604

Buy at Thomann View Details

Harley Benton DC-Custom 612 Cherry - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (2 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Harley Benton DC-Custom 612 Cherry

by Harley Benton

Unique Style Distinctive Look Progressive Music

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Harley Benton DC-Custom 612 Cherry Custom LineDouble Neck Electric GuitarBuild: Double neck with 12-string and...

⭐ 4.7/5 (2 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 368094

$548

Buy at Thomann View Details

Harley Benton DC-Custom II 612 White - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Harley Benton DC-Custom II 612 White

by Harley Benton

Contemporary Players Unique Style Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Contemporary aesthetics
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• Higher cost for unique design

Harley Benton DC-Custom II 612 WhiteSix and Twelve String Electric GuitarBody: MerantiSet-in necks:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (11 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 576417

$714

Buy at Thomann View Details

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX 3 Neptune Blue - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX 3 Neptune Blue

by Sterling by Music Man

Unique Style Innovation Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX 3 Neptune BlueElectric GuitarBody: JabonTop: Flamed maple veneerBolt-on neck:...

⭐ 4.6/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 610640

$637

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (33 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

7/10

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK

by Danelectro

Modern Design Distinctive Look Innovation

Key Feature:

• Innovative and modern design

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Conversation starter

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May sacrifice traditional tone

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BKElectric GuitarImproved remake of the cult guitarBody: Frame and centre block made of poplar...

⭐ 4.6/5 (33 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

10/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 351100

$659

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (47 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB

by Danelectro

Distinctive Look Modern Design Innovation

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

• Resale value uncertainty
• May not suit traditional players

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGBElectric GuitarImproved remake of the cult guitarBody: Frame and centre block made of poplar...

⭐ 4.9/5 (47 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 351111

$637

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 67 Red - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.7/5 (50 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Danelectro 67 Red

by Danelectro

Unique Style Modern Design Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Often improved ergonomics
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• May sacrifice traditional tone
• Higher cost for unique design

Danelectro 67 RedElectric GuitarBuild: OffsetBody frame and centre block made of poplarMasonite top and backNeck:...

⭐ 4.7/5 (50 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 472230

$637

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 59 Vintage 12 String Dark Aqua - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.4/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Danelectro 59 Vintage 12 String Dark Aqua

by Danelectro

Contemporary Players Distinctive Look Modern Design

Key Feature:

• Often improved ergonomics

✓ PROS

• Conversation starter
• Contemporary aesthetics

✗ CONS

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

Danelectro 59 Vintage 12 String Dark Aqua12-String Electric GuitarDesign: Double cut with S-SoundholeBody frame and...

⭐ 4.4/5 (24 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 447135

$714

Buy at Thomann View Details

Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom V2 Gloss Black - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom V2 Gloss Black

by Traveler Guitar

Modern Design Contemporary Players Innovation

Key Feature:

• Contemporary aesthetics

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• May not suit traditional players
• Resale value uncertainty

Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom V2 Gloss BlackElectric Travel GuitarAlder bodyScale: 628 mmMahogany neckBolt-on-on...

⭐ 4.6/5 (31 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 448929

$659

Buy at Thomann View Details

Larry Carlton J5 Sherwood Green Metallic - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.5/5 (41 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Larry Carlton J5 Sherwood Green Metallic

by Larry Carlton

Contemporary Players Modern Design Unique Style

Key Feature:

• Conversation starter

✓ PROS

• Unique visual appeal
• Innovative and modern design

✗ CONS

• Higher cost for unique design
• Resale value uncertainty

Larry Carlton J5 Sherwood Green MetallicElectric GuitarBody: AlderNeck: Bolt-on mapleFingerboard: MapleFingerboard...

⭐ 4.5/5 (41 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 584300

$527

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL TSPG TCO - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

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:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Often improved ergonomics

✗ CONS

• Limited mainstream appeal
• Resale value uncertainty

Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL TSPG TCOElectric GuitarBody: PoplarBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: Indian laurelWhite dot...

⭐ 4.7/5 (19 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 619731

$516

Buy at Thomann View Details

Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 5.0/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK

by Danelectro

Progressive Music Unique Style Distinctive Look

Key Feature:

• Unique visual appeal

✓ PROS

• Innovative and modern design
• Unique visual appeal

✗ CONS

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

Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK12-String Electric GuitarBody: Frame and centre block made of poplar with masonite top and...

⭐ 5.0/5 (56 reviews)

Sound:

10/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

6/10

Art. 353561

$692

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 $800 2026

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Trans Black

Traveler Guitar Pro Series Mod X - Matte Black

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX3 Stain Pink

Larry Carlton J5 3-Tone Sunburst LH

Harley Benton DC-Custom 612 Cherry

Harley Benton DC-Custom II 612 White

Sterling by Music Man S.U.B. Axis AX 3 Neptune Blue

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC BK

Danelectro 59M NOS+ DC GGB

Danelectro 67 Red

Danelectro 59 Vintage 12 String Dark Aqua

Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom V2 Gloss Black

Larry Carlton J5 Sherwood Green Metallic

Squier CV 60s Jazzmaster LRL TSPG TCO

Danelectro 59 Dano 12 BK

How to Choose the Best Alternative Design Guitars

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

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