AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Electric Guitar Sets Under $800 2026
The top pick is Squier Sonic Stratocaster ($328). Harley Benton ST-20 BK Standard Serie Bundle gives you the most for the money at $145. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 131 models across 6 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 20, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Squier Sonic Stratocaster
Sonic Strat HSS Black Set · Squier
215 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
- Weight3.8 kg
This Squier Sonic Strat HSS is a solid entry point for beginner to intermediate players. The HSS pickup setup gives you a good range of sounds, and the included amp gets you playing right out of the box. It’s a budget-friendly package perfect for learning the ropes or gigging around with a reliable, versatile instrument.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a balanced, resonant tone with surprising sustain.
- Narrow-tall frets enable comfortable chording and easier bending.
- HSS pickup configuration offers versatility from clean to crunchy tones.
Cons
- The poplar body, while resonant, lacks the premium feel of alder or ash.
- The Frontman 10G amp is very basic and lacks tonal shaping options.
69AudioFu
Index↓ 2.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$335 · Aug 17$328 now$328€292 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
- Weight3.8 kg
This Squier Sonic Tele is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players wanting a classic Tele vibe on a budget. The bolt-on neck and simple controls make it easy to learn, and the combo amp gets you playing right out of the box. It’s a solid, reliable package for practicing at home or jamming with friends.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Maple neck offers a comfortable, familiar feel for many players.
- Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning, a step up from basic options.
Cons
- Ceramic pickups lack the nuanced vintage character of alnico alternatives.
- Poplar body, while good, isn't as tonally complex as ash or alder.
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- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyPoplar body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
- Weight4.2 kg
The Squier Sonic Strat set is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players wanting a reliable, affordable Strat experience. The included Harley Benton amp is a decent match, providing enough power for practice and small gigs. It's a surprisingly capable package that delivers a lot of bang for your buck, especially for those seeking a bright, modern Strat vibe.
Pros
- Poplar body provides a balanced, resonant tone suitable for many genres.
- Maple neck offers a snappy feel and contributes to clear articulation.
- Ceramic pickups deliver a surprisingly bright and punchy sound.
Cons
- Poplar body can be a bit plain aesthetically compared to Alder or Ash.
- Limited tonal versatility; excels in brighter, more modern sounds.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$296 now$296€264 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
Affinity Strat MN LPB Set · Squier
221 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight4.2 kg
This Squier Affinity Strat set is a fantastic entry point for beginner guitarists or those wanting a solid, affordable practice rig. The Strat’s comfortable C-profile neck and versatile pickups make it a joy to play across genres, and the included amp is a surprisingly capable companion for bedroom jams and learning the basics.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Maple neck provides a snappy feel and fast playability.
- Ceramic pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful and clear output.
Cons
- The poplar body can feel a little lightweight for some players.
- The tremolo system is basic and prone to tuning instability.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$365 now$365€325 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
Affinity Strat MN OW Bundle · Squier
221 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight7 kg
This Squier Affinity Strat bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginner guitarists or those on a budget. The included Harley Benton amp is a surprisingly capable pairing, offering clean and overdrive channels for a wide range of tones. It's a solid package for learning the basics and having some fun – don't expect pro-level performance, but it delivers a lot of value for the money.
Pros
- Poplar body offers surprisingly good resonance for the price.
- Maple neck provides a comfortable, familiar C profile feel.
- Ceramic pickups deliver a hotter, more aggressive tone than Alnico.
Cons
- The poplar body can feel a bit lightweight and less resonant than Alder.
- Affinity pickups are serviceable but lack the nuance of higher-end models.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$369 now$369€329 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster
Affinity Strat FM HSS S Set · Squier
221 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight4.2 kg
This Squier Affinity Strat FM HSS S Set is a solid entry point for beginners or players on a budget. The HSS pickup setup gives you a good range of tones, from clean chime to crunchy overdrive, and the included Harley Benton amp gets you playing right out of the box. It's a great, affordable package for learning the ropes and exploring different musical styles.
Pros
- Maple top adds a touch of brightness and clarity to the poplar body.
- The HSS pickup configuration offers surprising versatility for the price.
- Maple neck provides a snappy feel and good sustain, typical of Strats.
Cons
- Poplar body can feel a bit lifeless compared to alder or ash.
- Affinity pickups are serviceable but lack the nuance of higher-end models.
65AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$403 now$403€359 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
The Harley Benton ST-62BK Hot Rod Bundle is a fantastic entry point for aspiring guitarists or anyone needing a reliable practice axe. It nails the classic Strat vibe with a surprisingly punchy sound thanks to the Roswell pickups – a real step up from typical budget guitars. This bundle is perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles, offering great value without sacrificing too much playability.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly hot, versatile tones for the price.
- Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel favored by many.
- Vintage caramelised maple neck offers a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
Cons
- Basswood body can lack sustain and resonance compared to mahogany.
- Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and may need upgrading.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$246 now$246€219 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Squier Mini Stratocaster V2
Mini Strat V2 BK IL Bundle · Squier
184 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width40.6 mm (1.6")
- Scale578 mm (22.76")
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight4.2 kg
This Squier Mini Strat bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners, kids, or anyone wanting a fun, travel-friendly guitar. The short scale makes it easy to play, and the included amp provides a workable practice setup, though don't expect studio-quality sound. It's a great way to get started without a huge investment.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Maple neck provides a snappy feel and quick action.
- Indian Laurel fretboard adds a touch of warmth and clarity.
Cons
- Mini scale limits low-end response and string tension.
- Standard single-coil pickups lack high-output and nuanced dynamics.
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Squier Mini Stratocaster V2
Mini Stratocaster IL DR Bundle · Squier
184 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width40.6 mm (1.6")
- Scale578 mm (22.76")
- BodyPoplar body
- Weight4.2 kg
This Squier Mini Strat bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or those needing a compact, portable instrument. The Harley Benton amp provides a surprisingly full sound for its size, making it a convenient practice setup. It’s a great option for younger players or anyone wanting a fun, easily manageable guitar.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- Indian Laurel fretboard provides a smooth, comfortable playing experience.
- The Harley Benton amp delivers decent clean and overdrive tones for practice.
Cons
- Standard single-coil pickups lack the nuanced articulation of higher-end pickups.
- Short scale length limits low-end response and string tension.
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$285 now$285€254 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyPoplar body
This Harley Benton bundle is a fantastic entry point for beginners or players seeking a budget-friendly Strat-style guitar and amp combo. The ST-20 delivers a surprisingly good tone and feel for the price, and the Marshall MS-2 is perfect for practicing at home or on the go. It's an excellent choice for anyone wanting that classic Fender vibe without the premium price tag.
Pros
- Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- Modern 'C' neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of players.
- ST-style single coils deliver a classic, bright, and articulate sound.
Cons
- Factory strings are thin and will likely need an immediate upgrade.
- Synchronized tremolo system may suffer from tuning instability with heavy use.
61AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$145 now$145€129 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 131 electric guitar sets
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Squier Sonic StratocasterSonic Stratocaster Pack BK · Squier · 2 finishes61↑ 7.8%$296€264$296€264Check ↗
- 12
Harley Benton TE-20 SB Standard Serie Set 1Harley Benton · 13 finishes57Stable$167€149$167€149Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton TE-62CC LH SP BundleHarley Benton · 6 finishes55↓ 4.2%$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton TE-52 NA /Mooer Hornet SetHarley Benton · 5 finishes54Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 15
Harley Benton R-446 Plum Metallic SetHarley Benton · 11 finishes54Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton CST-24T LH Ocean Flame SetHarley Benton · 7 finishes54Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton SC-550 II FTF BundleHarley Benton · 10 finishes54Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 18
Harley Benton R-457 BK Bundle 1Harley Benton · 5 finishes52Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 19
Harley Benton SC-450 CB Classic Bundle 1Harley Benton · 5 finishes52Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 20
Harley Benton JA-60LH SB Vintage Seri SetHarley Benton · 5 finishes52Stable$268€239$268€239Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton MA-5 Miniamp Set 4Harley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton TE-30 BE Standard Serie BundleHarley Benton · 3 finishes51Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton TE-40 TBK Bundle 1Harley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton SC-450PlusLH GT Vintage SetHarley Benton · 3 finishes51Stable$313€279$313€279Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton HB-35 CH Vintage Series SetHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$347€309$347€309Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton HWY-25BKS Progressive S BundleHarley Benton · 4 finishes50↓ 5.0%$212€189$212€189Check ↗
- 27
Harley Benton D-120CE BK Joyo BundleHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$152€135$152€135Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton WL-20BK Rock Series Bundle 4Harley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 29
Harley Benton SC-400 SGT DNAFX AmP15 SetHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton TE-90FLT VW Deluxe Seri BundleHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$302€269$302€269Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton SC-1000 SBK Bundle 1Harley Benton · 5 finishes49Stable$313€279$313€279Check ↗
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Harley Benton RB-612CS Classic Series SetHarley Benton49Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
- 33
Harley Benton Fusion-III HH EB OCT SetHarley Benton49↓ 16.7%$504€449$504€449Check ↗
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Harley Benton ST-Junior HSS SBK BundleHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$134€119$134€119Check ↗
- 35
Harley Benton R-10 BK Rock Series Bundle 1Harley Benton · 3 finishes48Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton Extreme-76 BK Classic BundleHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 37
Harley Benton Extreme-76LH BK BundleHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$257€229$257€229Check ↗
- 38
Harley Benton TE-70RW Deluxe Set 1Harley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 39
Harley Benton SC-500 BK Vintage Series SetHarley Benton · 2 finishes48Stable$331€295$331€295Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton TE-80 NT Deluxe Series Set 1Harley Benton · 3 finishes47↓ 1.7%$317€282$317€282Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton DC-Custom II Cherry Set 2Harley Benton47Stable$425€379$425€379Check ↗
- 42
Thomann Guitar Set G2 BlackThomann · 4 finishes46Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 43
Harley Benton DC-Junior Pelham Blue BundleHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 44
Harley Benton R-458FFB LH Roasted Mul SetHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$369€329$369€329Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton ST-Modern Plus MN HSS L SetHarley Benton · 2 finishes46Stable$448€399$448€399Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton ST-Junior BK Standard S BundleHarley Benton45Stable$118€105$118€105Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton ST-Junior BK St. Series PackHarley Benton45Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 48
Harley Benton ST-Junior BK Standard Bundle 1Harley Benton45Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 49
Harley Benton BS-20BK Rock Series SetHarley Benton45Stable$302€269$302€269Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton DC-Custom II Cherry SetHarley Benton45Stable$381€339$381€339Check ↗
Electric Guitar Sets by the numbers
Measured across all 290 models we track, not a sample.
Median $280 — half of all electric guitar sets here cost less.
median of 288 models · 42 mm (1.65")–43 mm (1.69")
median of 284 models · 565 mm (22.24")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 204 models · 21–24
most common · 109 models
How to choose the best electric guitar sets
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
A thick, unwieldy neck or ridiculously high action will kill your motivation faster than anything. We're looking for something comfortable to play, especially if you're still developing your chops.
Pickup Voicing
At this price point, don't expect boutique-grade pickups. But a decent set of pickups can still deliver usable tones - whether you're after warm, bluesy breakup or something with a bit more bite for rock and metal.
Hardware Quality (Tuners & Bridge)
Cheap tuners will have you retuning mid-song, and a flimsy bridge will make sustain and intonation a distant dream. Solid, reliable hardware is non-negotiable, even on a budget.
Construction & Finish
We're not expecting flawless nitro finishes, but the guitar should feel well-built and sturdy. Check for sharp fret edges, uneven gaps, and overall sloppy construction - these are signs of corners being cut.
Versatility
Can it cover a range of genres? A guitar that's only good for one style is limiting. A decent HSS configuration or a versatile humbucker/single-coil setup offers the most flexibility.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're looking for a decent electric guitar set without blowing your rent. It's a tricky balance - you want something playable, something that won't sound like a strangled cat when you plug it in, and something that'll survive a few gigs. We've hunted down the best options under $800 that actually deliver on that promise, focusing on bang-for-your-buck rather than marketing hype. Let's cut through the noise and find you a setup you can actually use.
Be realistic. $800 isn't a lot of money for a guitar. You'll be making some trade-offs. Often, that means a less-than-perfect finish, slightly lower-grade hardware, and pickups that won't blow your mind, but are perfectly serviceable.
Focus on the fundamentals - a comfortable neck, decent intonation, and pickups that can deliver a usable range of tones. A good setup from a local tech can often elevate a budget guitar significantly.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 290 electric guitar sets from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are these sets gig-ready straight out of the box?
Probably not. Most will benefit from a professional setup - leveling frets, adjusting the action, and ensuring proper intonation. Factor that into your budget.
What's the difference between a 'starter pack' and what you've listed?
Starter packs often skimp on everything - the amp is usually weak, the cables are flimsy, and the accessories are disposable. These sets represent a step up, with more respectable components.
Can I upgrade the pickups later?
Absolutely. Pickups are the easiest and most impactful upgrade you can make. Just make sure the new pickups are compatible with the guitar's wiring and electronics.
What's the deal with the included amps? Are they any good?
Most included amps are practice amps - fine for bedroom playing and quiet rehearsals, but lacking headroom for loud gigs. Think of them as a bonus, not the core of your setup.
What about left-handed models?
Availability varies. Check individual product listings - some manufacturers offer left-handed versions, while others don't. Be prepared to search.





