Best Lefthanded Guitars for Beginner 2026
Alright, so you're left-handed and just starting out? Fantastic! Finding a good lefty guitar shouldn't be a headache, but the selection is understandably smaller, and you need something that'll actually be fun to learn on. A poorly set-up guitar will kill your motivation faster than a dropped power chord. We're focusing on instruments that prioritize playability and won't break the bank while you're figuring out where that sweet spot between a bluesy growl and a clean chime actually lives.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best lefthanded guitars in 2026 are Harley Benton ST-20LH BK Standard Series (top pick), Harley Benton RG-Junior BK LH for tighter budgets, and Harley Benton ST-LH DIY-KIT for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $97–$174, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-20LH BK Standard Series
Correct Technique
Comfort
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton ST-20LH is a seriously impressive offering for the price. It’s a solid starting point for beginners or a fun, affordable workhorse for seasoned players needing a reliable Strat-style guitar. The bolt-on neck and bright pickups lend themselves well to classic rock, blues, and even some pop styles.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Die-cast tuners offer stable tuning and reliable performance.
- • ST-style single coils deliver a bright, articulate tone suitable for many genres.
CONS
- • Synchronized tremolo system may require setup and careful use to avoid tuning instability.
- • Roseacer fretboard may exhibit minor fret sprout or buzzing initially.
- • Poplar body, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany or alder.
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 155259
$98
#2
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton RG-Junior BK LH
Left-Handed Players
Comfort
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This lefty RG-Junior is a seriously impressive value. It's perfect for younger players, beginners, or anyone wanting a hard-hitting rock tone on a budget. The shorter scale makes it comfortable, and those humbuckers pack a surprising punch for the price.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Maple neck offers a snappy feel and good sustain, typical of bolt-on construction.
- • Dual humbuckers deliver a thick, aggressive sound suitable for rock and metal.
- • Die-cast tuners provide reliable tuning stability, a significant upgrade at this price point.
CONS
- • Roseacer fretboard can feel a bit 'slick' for some players, requiring a break-in or alternative finish.
- • 3/4 scale length limits low-end response and may feel cramped for larger hands.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels budget-oriented and might benefit from future upgrades.
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 357423
$98
#3
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-LH DIY-KIT
Left-Handed Players
Proper Ergonomics
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton DIY kit is a fantastic entry point for left-handed players eager to learn guitar construction. The build quality of the components is surprisingly good for the price, and the resulting ST-style guitar delivers a bright, jangly tone perfect for classic rock and indie styles. It's ideal for hobbyists, students, or anyone wanting a unique, personalized instrument.
PROS
- • Rengas body offers a unique, resonant tone with a natural warmth.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy feel and easy playability.
- • Amaranth fingerboard is durable and offers a smooth playing surface.
- • Complete kit allows for a rewarding, hands-on building experience.
CONS
- • Requires woodworking skills and finishing knowledge for proper assembly.
- • Ceramic pickups offer a bright, slightly harsh tone; limited tonal versatility.
- • Rengas wood coloration can vary significantly, impacting aesthetics.
⭐
3.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 542096
$98
#4
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-20LH SB
Proper Ergonomics
Optimal Performance
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton ST-20LH SB is an absolute steal. It’s a solid starter guitar or a fun, affordable project instrument—the build quality is surprisingly good for the price. If you're a left-handed player looking for a classic Strat vibe without spending a fortune, this is a great option.
PROS
- • Poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tonal foundation.
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable and fast for a wide range of playing styles.
- • Roseacer fretboard offers a smooth playing experience with good durability.
- • Die-cast tuners provide stable tuning and reliable performance for gigging.
CONS
- • Synchronized tremolo system can feel a bit 'floaty' and requires careful setup.
- • ST-style single coils lack the nuanced complexity of higher-end pickups.
- • High-gloss finish can be prone to fingerprints and requires diligent care.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 358339
$98
#5
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton TE-LH KIT
Correct Technique
Proper Ergonomics
Natural Playing Position
Key Feature:
This Harley Benton kit is a fantastic entry point for left-handed players wanting a T-style guitar and a project. The build quality is surprisingly decent for the price, and it's a great way to learn about guitar construction. It's perfect for budding guitarists or tinkerers who want a fun, affordable, and customizable instrument.
PROS
- • Rengas body offers a unique, resonant tone with a pleasing natural aesthetic.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides a snappy, responsive feel ideal for energetic playing.
- • Amaranth fingerboard is durable and smooth, offering comfortable fretwork.
- • Complete kit allows for a rewarding DIY experience and personalized customization.
CONS
- • Assembly requires skill; not suitable for absolute beginners to guitar building.
- • Single coil pickups deliver a bright tone, limiting versatility for heavier genres.
- • Rengas wood color variation means the final finish can be unpredictable.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 542097
$98
#6
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-20HSS LH SBK
Comfort
Optimal Performance
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton ST-20HSS is an incredible value. It's a solid starter guitar or a fun, affordable backup for more experienced players wanting a Strat-style feel with a little extra growl from the humbucker. The build quality is surprisingly decent for the price, making it a great choice for beginners or budget-conscious players.
PROS
- • Basswood body provides a surprisingly balanced, resonant tone.
- • Modern C neck profile is comfortable for fast playing and chording.
- • HSS pickup configuration offers versatility from crunchy rock to clean tones.
- • Die-cast tuners hold tuning stability well, uncommon at this price.
CONS
- • Basswood body can feel a bit 'soft' and prone to dings.
- • Synchronized tremolo system is basic and may require tweaking for tuning stability.
- • Laurel fretboard may require more frequent oiling to prevent dryness.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 507000
$122
#7
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton TE-20HH LH SBK
Left-Handed Players
Correct Technique
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed TE-20HH is a seriously impressive value. The modern C neck profile and humbucker pickups deliver a versatile range, from crunchy rhythm to searing leads. It's a fantastic starting point for lefty players or anyone seeking a budget-friendly, rock-ready instrument.
PROS
- • Poplar body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel ideal for rock.
- • DLX die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning, a welcome upgrade.
- • Humbucker pickups deliver a thick, crunchy sound perfect for high-gain genres.
CONS
- • Factory strings are basic; an immediate upgrade is highly recommended.
- • Bolt-on construction lacks the sustain of a set-neck design.
- • Matte black finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily.
⭐
3.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 506999
$122
#8
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-20HSS LH SBK w/Bag
Correct Technique
Comfort
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton ST-20HSS is a solid starting point for aspiring guitarists or those needing a reliable backup. The HSS pickup configuration gives you a surprisingly wide range of tones, and the modern neck profile makes it easy to play. It’s a fantastic value, especially for players who want a Strat-style guitar without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Basswood body offers a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone.
- • Modern C neck profile provides comfortable playability for various hand sizes.
- • HSS pickup configuration delivers versatility from crunchy rhythm to brighter leads.
- • Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning, a welcome feature at this price point.
CONS
- • Basswood, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany or alder.
- • Bolt-on neck construction can slightly diminish the overall sustain and vintage feel.
- • Synchronized tremolo system may require setup to prevent tuning instability.
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
10/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 537979
$142
#9
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton SC-400LH SBK Classic Series
Comfort
Left-Handed Players
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty SC-400 is a seriously impressive value. It nails that classic, slightly scooped rock tone, and the build quality is surprisingly good for the price point. Ideal for players wanting a vintage vibe without the vintage price tag – especially good for classic rock, blues, and some heavier styles.
PROS
- • Solid poplar body provides a surprisingly resonant and balanced tone
- • Maple neck with a comfortable 'C' profile enhances playability
- • Classic Open humbuckers deliver a warm, vintage-inspired rock sound
- • Die-cast tuners offer stable tuning and reliable performance
CONS
- • Poplar body can be slightly prone to finish checking with age
- • Roseacer fingerboard might feel a touch less refined than ebony or maple
- • Limited pickup versatility restricts experimentation with modern genres
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 362537
$153
#10
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton DC-580LH CH Vintage Series
Comfort
Optimal Performance
Left-Handed Players
Key Feature:
This lefty DC-580 is a seriously impressive package for the price. The vintage vibe and humbucker tone make it a great choice for rock, blues, and classic hard rock players who want a solid, playable instrument without spending a fortune. It’s a real workhorse guitar for the budget-conscious player.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers surprisingly warm, resonant low-mids.
- • Canadian maple neck provides stability and a comfortable, familiar C profile.
- • Vintage-style humbuckers offer a thick, crunchy tone suitable for rock.
- • Tune-O-Matic bridge and die-cast tuners ensure reliable tuning stability.
CONS
- • Basswood can feel a bit 'soft' under a heavy pick, lacks premium sustain.
- • Cherry high-gloss finish, while attractive, is prone to fingerprints and scratches.
- • The .010-.046 string gauge might feel a little stiff for some players.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 362648
$153
#11
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton TE-40 LH TBK Deluxe Series
Comfort
Proper Ergonomics
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This lefty TE-40 LH TBK is a seriously impressive value. The ash top gives it a touch of class, while the Roswell pickups deliver a surprisingly warm and powerful tone perfect for rock, blues, and even some heavier styles. It’s a fantastic entry point for left-handed players or anyone on a tight budget wanting a quality instrument.
PROS
- • Ash top adds visual flair and subtle resonance
- • Roswell HAF pickups deliver surprisingly thick, warm tones
- • Bolt-on neck provides snappy attack and easy playability
- • Tune-O-Matic bridge enhances sustain and tuning stability
CONS
- • Basswood body can feel a bit lifeless compared to mahogany
- • Pau Ferro fretboard might require a bit of initial seasoning
- • Hardware, while gold-plated, feels a little budget-oriented
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
6/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 460889
$164
#12
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-62LH BK Vintage Series
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Players
Comfort
Key Feature:
This lefty ST-62 is a fantastic entry point for players wanting a vintage Strat vibe without the premium price tag. The Roswell pickups surprisingly nail that classic Fender chime, and the neck is a joy to play. It’s perfect for beginners or seasoned players needing a reliable, affordable workhorse guitar.
PROS
- • Roswell STA Alnico-5 pickups deliver a surprisingly authentic vintage single-coil tone.
- • The inCin neck profile offers a comfortable, modern feel despite the vintage styling.
- • Solid basswood body provides a balanced platform for the pickups and hardware.
- • Kluson-style machine heads offer smooth tuning stability and a classic aesthetic.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while balanced, lacks the resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- • Synchronized tremolo system may require setup and careful use to avoid tuning instability.
- • Tortoise pickguard feels a little cheap compared to higher-end alternatives.
⭐
3.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
8/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 378947
$164
#13
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-20HH Active LH SBK
Comfort
Optimal Performance
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton ST-20HH Active is a serious contender for budget-minded metalheads and players wanting a modern feel. The active pickups bring the high gain, and the bolt-on neck makes shredding a breeze. It's a fantastic entry point for active pickup players or anyone needing a solid, affordable left-handed instrument.
PROS
- • Active pickups deliver high-gain, modern metal tones with ease
- • Bolt-on neck provides a snappy, responsive feel for faster playing
- • Poplar body offers a balanced tone suitable for various genres
- • Die-cast tuners ensure stable tuning, even with aggressive playing
CONS
- • Active pickups can be noisy, especially at high gain levels
- • Poplar body might lack the sustain of mahogany or ash
- • Modern C neck profile may not suit players preferring a vintage feel
⭐
3.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 538222
$164
#14
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton ST-62CC MN LH Seafoam Green
Proper Ergonomics
Left-Handed Players
Optimal Performance
Key Feature:
This left-handed Harley Benton ST-62CC is a seriously impressive value. The caramelized neck feels fantastic, and the Roswell pickups offer a surprisingly authentic vintage Strat tone – bright, snappy, and ready for classic rock or blues. It's an ideal instrument for beginner to intermediate players seeking a quality feel and vintage vibe on a budget.
PROS
- • Caramelized maple neck and fretboard offer surprisingly smooth playability and feel.
- • Roswell STA pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and vintage-voiced single-coil tone.
- • Bolt-on neck construction provides a bright, snappy response characteristic of vintage Strats.
- • The Seafoam Green finish and Kluson-style tuners add a touch of classic aesthetic charm.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while lightweight, lacks the sustain and resonance of more premium woods.
- • Synchronized tremolo system can feel a bit 'budget' and might require tweaking for stability.
- • Caramelized finish, while nice, may be prone to wear and tear with aggressive playing.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 535267
$175
#15
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Harley Benton JA-60CC LH Lake Placid Blue
Optimal Performance
Comfort
Proper Ergonomics
Key Feature:
This lefty Harley Benton is a seriously impressive package for the money. It nails that vintage vibe with its warm, punchy pickups and comfortable neck profile, making it ideal for blues, rock, and garage band mayhem. A fantastic entry point for beginners or a fun, affordable project guitar for more experienced players.
PROS
- • Basswood body delivers a surprisingly resonant, balanced tone.
- • Roswell JM Alnico-5 pickups offer authentic vintage-style bite and clarity.
- • Bolt-on maple neck provides snappy response and comfortable playability.
- • Kluson-style tuners offer reliable tuning stability and a vintage aesthetic.
CONS
- • Basswood body, while resonant, lacks the sustain of mahogany or ash.
- • Fixed bridge limits tremolo or vibrato capabilities for more expressive playing.
- • Nut width might feel a little narrow for players with larger hands.
⭐
3.6/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
8/10
Detail:
7/10
Value:
10/10
Art. 514523
$175
How to Choose the Best Lefthanded Guitars
1
Neck Profile
This is HUGE for beginners. A thin, easy-to-grip neck like a 'C' shape will be far more forgiving than a chunky vintage profile. You want something that allows your hand to move freely without fatigue.
2
Action & Setup
A high action (string height) makes barre chords a nightmare. A proper setup - low action, intonation dialed in - is absolutely crucial for a beginner to develop good technique and avoid frustration. Budget for a setup if it isn't done well at the factory.
3
Pickup Voicing
Bright, ice-picky pickups can be fatiguing and make it hard to hear what you're playing. Look for something balanced - a little warmth in the low-mids, decent clarity in the highs, but not overly aggressive. It's easier to add distortion later than to remove harshness.
4
Body Wood & Construction
Don't get hung up on exotic woods at this stage. A mahogany body will generally give you a warmer, more resonant tone, while alder tends to be brighter and more versatile. Bolt-on necks are common on beginner guitars and perfectly serviceable, but a set-neck (though less common on budget left-handed guitars) can offer a bit more sustain.
5
Hardware Quality
Cheap tuners will have you constantly retuning, and a flimsy bridge will impact sustain and intonation. It's a trade-off - you're not going to get boutique hardware on a budget guitar, but look for something that feels solid and functional.
Buying Guide
Honestly, a guitar that's well-set up is more important than the brand name. Don't be afraid to buy used - you can often get a much better instrument for the same price. Pay attention to the neck - look for straightness and minimal fret buzz. And seriously, budget for a professional setup; it's the best money you'll spend.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 lefthanded guitars from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not quite. While the body shape is mirrored, electronics and pickup placement can sometimes be different to maintain balance and tone. Also, the neck inlays are reversed.
Squier (by Fender) and Epiphone (by Gibson) consistently offer good value and decent quality. Yamaha also makes some solid, reliable options.
Ideally, try before you buy. But if that's not possible, read reviews and check the return policy. Online retailers often have better prices, but a local shop can do a setup for you.
A setup involves adjusting the action, intonation, neck relief, and pickup height to optimize playability. It makes a huge difference in how easy the guitar is to play and how well it sounds.
Sure, but it'll be harder. A lighter guitar is easier to hold and maneuver, especially when you're just starting out. It's less about the weight itself and more about how it affects your stamina and technique.
