AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Lefthanded Guitars for Professional 2026
The top pick is Gibson 1964 ES-335 Reissue CH VOS LH ($6,363). Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s gives you the most for the money at $3,013. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 138 models across 20 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This is a seriously gorgeous and well-played ES-335, built to feel and sound like a vintage classic. The Custom Shop attention to detail shines, and those Custombucker pickups are a real treat for blues, rock, and jazz players who crave that warm, articulate tone. It’s a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and vintage vibe are undeniable.
Pros
- Exceptional Custom Shop build quality; flawless finish work.
- Custombucker Alnico III pickups deliver that classic, thick ES-335 tone.
- Vintage '64 profile neck offers comfortable, familiar playability.
Cons
- The weight will be noticeable for extended playing sessions.
- The unpotted pickups can be prone to microphonic hum in certain environments.
36AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$6,363 now$6,363€5,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardEbony fingerboard
This lefty Les Paul Custom is a serious tone machine. The combination of mahogany, maple, and those Custombucker pickups gives you a vintage-inspired growl with plenty of sustain. It's ideal for players seeking a high-end, historically-inspired instrument for rock, blues, and beyond.
Pros
- The '68 Custombuckers deliver a thick, creamy tone perfect for rock and blues.
- Ebony fingerboard provides exceptional clarity and sustain, a real player's upgrade.
- The '68 medium C neck profile is comfortable and familiar for a wide range of players.
Cons
- The solid mahogany body contributes to a substantial weight, demanding a comfortable strap.
- The limited pickup selection restricts versatility compared to guitars with coil-splitting.
45AudioFu
Index↓ 7.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$6,475 · Aug 17$6,018 now$6,018€5,390 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Custom "Norlin Era" Electric Guitar 1970 - 1985
Les Paul Custom EB LH · Gibson
335 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This lefty Les Paul Custom EB is a serious instrument built for players seeking a premium, vintage-inspired tone and feel. The ebony board and powerful humbuckers make it ideal for rock, blues, and heavier styles. It’s a high-end choice for the discerning player who appreciates quality craftsmanship and a distinctive voice.
Pros
- Ebony fretboard offers exceptional clarity and note definition.
- Mahogany body provides rich sustain and warm low-end response.
- 490R/498T combo delivers a versatile range of tones, from blues to rock.
Cons
- The weight, typical of Les Pauls, can be fatiguing during extended playing sessions.
- The 'Custom' neck profile may not suit all hand sizes or playing preferences.
59AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$5,580 now$5,580€4,998 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Frets22 frets
This lefty '58 Standard WC VOS is a serious contender for vintage Les Paul lovers. The Custombuckers give it a thicker, more aggressive voice than the classic '57 Classic, and the VOS finish really nails that worn-in, played-for-years vibe. It's a premium-priced instrument, but the quality and feel are undeniable – perfect for rock, blues, and classic tones.
Pros
- The '58 neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability, a real vintage feel.
- Custombuckers deliver a powerful, articulate tone perfect for rock and blues.
- Washed Cherry VOS finish beautifully replicates aged vintage aesthetics and feel.
Cons
- The weight, typical of Les Pauls, can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
- Limited pickup versatility might not suit players needing extreme sonic spectrums.
35AudioFu
Index↓ 3.2%since Aug 17$5,302 · Aug 17$5,135 now$5,135€4,599 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.8 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This lefty ES-335 Dot 60s Cherry is a fantastic all-rounder – a real workhorse. The maple top gives it a lively response, and the '60s neck profile makes it a joy to play. It's ideal for players seeking a versatile semi-hollow with vintage vibes and a premium feel, perfect for blues, jazz, and rock.
Pros
- Maple top adds brightness, cutting through mixes effectively
- Rounded '60s neck profile offers comfortable, fast playing feel
- Calibrated T-Type humbuckers deliver a warm, vintage-inspired tone
Cons
- Semi-hollow construction can be prone to feedback at high volumes
- The weight, typical of 335s, can be fatiguing for extended playing
38AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,572 now$3,572€3,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42.7 mm (1.68")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This Epiphone USA Casino Royal Tan is a serious contender for vintage-loving players. The hollowbody construction and P-90 pickups give it a real 50s vibe – think early rock ‘n’ roll and blues. It's a premium-priced instrument that delivers a lot of character for the discerning left-handed guitarist.
Pros
- Maple/poplar laminate body delivers warm, resonant, vintage tone
- Gibson USA P-90s provide thick, snarling character and sustain
- Handwired electronics with Orange Drops enhance clarity and responsiveness
Cons
- Hollowbody design makes it prone to feedback at higher volumes
- Royal Tan finish might not appeal to all aesthetic preferences
35AudioFu
Index↑ 3.2%since Aug 17$3,460 · Aug 17$3,572 now$3,572€3,199 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyMahogany body
This guitar feels solid with its mahogany body and quilted maple top, giving you a warm base with added sparkle. The active EMG pickups sound tight and loud, perfect for players who want consistent output. It suits left-handed musicians who need reliable locking tuners and extra jumbo frets for faster playing.
Pros
- Active EMG 57/66 pickups deliver tight, high-output tone
- Mahogany body provides warm, resonant low-end foundation
- Quilted maple top adds brightness and sustain
Cons
- Weight not specified in description
- No passive pickup option available
45AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,348 now$3,348€2,999 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '50s
Les Paul Standard 50s HCS LH · Gibson
437 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- BodyMahogany body
This is a left-handed Les Paul with a mahogany body, maple top, and two Burstbucker humbuckers, so you get the classic Les Paul build. It has a vintage '50s neck, a rosewood fretboard, and handwired electronics with Orange Drops capacitors. It suits a left-handed player who wants a traditional Les Paul, and a case comes with the guitar.
Pros
- Mahogany body with a maple top, a classic Les Paul combination
- Burstbucker #2 bridge and Burstbucker #1 neck humbucker pickups
- Vintage '50s neck profile with a 43 mm Graphtech nut
Cons
- Left-handed model, so it only suits left-handed players
66AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$3,013 · Aug 17$3,013 now$3,013€2,699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Slash Collection Les Paul Standard
Les Paul Slash Standard GT LH · Gibson
64 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
This Slash Standard GT is a seriously cool left-handed Les Paul, built to nail that iconic, gritty rock tone. The Burstbucker pickups are spot-on for Slash’s sound, and the vintage neck profile makes it a joy to play. It’s a premium-priced instrument ideal for rock and blues players wanting a classic, ready-to-go package.
Pros
- Custom Burstbucker pickups deliver Slash's signature thick, crunchy overdrive.
- 50s Vintage neck profile provides exceptional comfort and vintage feel.
- Solid mahogany body and maple top offer excellent sustain and balanced tone.
Cons
- Mahogany construction results in a noticeably heavier instrument.
- Rosewood fretboard might feel less smooth than some modern alternatives.
51AudioFu
IndexStablesince Aug 17$3,237 · Aug 17$3,237 now$3,237€2,899 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Gibson Les Paul Standard '60s Plain Top
Les Paul Standard 60s BB LH · Gibson
72 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
This lefty Les Paul Standard 60s BB is a serious contender for vintage-inspired tones. The Burstbuckers nail that warm, creamy Les Paul sound, and the slim taper neck makes it surprisingly accessible. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for blues, rock, and players craving a classic feel and look.
Pros
- Bourbon Burst finish showcases stunning flamed maple top
- Burstbucker pickups deliver authentic vintage Les Paul tone
- Slim taper neck provides comfortable, fast playability for many
Cons
- Weight can be a factor for extended playing sessions
- Rosewood fretboard might be a preference for some players
53AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$3,125 now$3,125€2,799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 138 lefthanded guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
ESP E-II M-II LH STBLKESP36Stable$3,348€2,999$3,348€2,999Check ↗
- 12
Duesenberg Starplayer TV Deep Black LHDuesenberg35Stable$3,348€2,999$3,348€2,999Check ↗
- 13
Gibson '70s Explorer70s Explorer CW LH · Gibson48↑ 3.7%$2,893€2,591$2,893€2,591Check ↗
- 14
Fender American Ultra II StratocasterAm Ultra II Strat LH EB TXT · Fender63↓ 3.5%$2,455€2,199$2,455€2,199Check ↗
- 15
Ibanez RG5120M PrestigeRG5120ML-FCN LH · Ibanez49Stable$2,511€2,249$2,511€2,249Check ↗
- 16
Ibanez AZ2204N PrestigeAZ2204NWL-MGR Prestige · Ibanez48Stable$2,511€2,249$2,511€2,249Check ↗
- 17
Gibson SG ModernSG Modern TBF LH · Gibson · 2 finishes50Stable$2,455€2,199$2,455€2,199Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez AZ2402 PrestigeAZ2402L-TFF Prestige · Ibanez50Stable$2,344€2,099$2,344€2,099Check ↗
- 19
Schecter Daniel Haniss Signature Danskimo-6Danskimo-6 LH · Schecter42Stable$2,366€2,119$2,366€2,119Check ↗
- 20
Fender AV II 61 STRAT LH RW OWTFender35Stable$2,455€2,199$2,455€2,199Check ↗
- 21
Ibanez RG5121RL-DBFIbanez41Stable$2,344€2,099$2,344€2,099Check ↗
- 22
Gibson SG Standard '61 With Stop Bar TailpieceSG ´61 Standard VC LH · Gibson53Stable$2,120€1,899$2,120€1,899Check ↗
- 23
Gibson SG StandardSG Standard EB LH · Gibson · 2 finishes59Stable$1,953€1,749$1,953€1,749Check ↗
- 24
Schecter Synyster Gates Signature Synyster Custom-S SustainiacSynyster Gates Custom LH S SGB · Schecter49Stable$2,064€1,849$2,064€1,849Check ↗
- 25
Framus Artist Line Shark WH 1 FR LH BFramus · 2 finishes45Stable$2,110€1,890$2,110€1,890Check ↗
- 26
Fender Kurt Cobain JaguarKurt Cobain Jaguar LH · Fender49Stable$1,953€1,749$1,953€1,749Check ↗
- 27
Gibson LP Special SC TV Yellow LHGibson38Stable$1,938€1,736$1,938€1,736Check ↗
- 28
ESP LTD SN-1007 HT BaritoneLTD SN-1007 Bar HT BK Bl LH · ESP42Stable$1,875€1,679$1,875€1,679Check ↗
- 29
Fender Player II StratocasterPlayer II Strat LH MN AQB · Fender · 3 finishes80↓ 6.1%$859€769$859€769Check ↗
- 30
Fender Player II TelecasterPlayer II Tele LH MN 3TS · Fender · 2 finishes78↓ 7.0%$840€752$840€752Check ↗
- 31
Ibanez RG550 Genesis CollectionRG550L-DY · Ibanez64Stable$1,194€1,069$1,194€1,069Check ↗
- 32
PRS SE Custom 24 Electric GuitarSE Custom 24 BG LH · PRS61↓ 11.1%$942€844$942€844Check ↗
- 33
Sire Larry Carlton L7L7 New Gen Amber Burst LH · Larry Carlton · 4 finishes60↓ 4.1%$780€699$780€699Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20Revstar RSS20 Lefthand Black · Yamaha54Stable$868€777$868€777Check ↗
- 35
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom EB LH · Epiphone53Stable$713€639$713€639Check ↗
- 36
Schecter Omen Extreme-6Omen Extreme 6 BCH LH · Schecter52Stable$725€649$725€649Check ↗
- 37
Larry Carlton T7 BK New Gen LHLarry Carlton · 3 finishes51Stable$769€689$769€689Check ↗
- 38
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 MS BL Cherry LH · Schecter51Stable$970€869$970€869Check ↗
- 39
Fender MIJ Trad 60s Strat LH RW SHPFender · 4 finishes51↓ 1.3%$1,651€1,479$1,651€1,479Check ↗
- 40
Schecter Omen Extreme-7Omen Extreme-7 LH BKCH · Schecter49Stable$780€699$780€699Check ↗
- 41
Larry Carlton H7F Tobacco Burst LHLarry Carlton · 2 finishes49Stable$836€749$836€749Check ↗
- 42
Schecter Reaper 6Reaper-6 LH SCB · Schecter49Stable$1,227€1,099$1,227€1,099Check ↗
- 43
ESP LTD Snakebyte James Hetfield SignatureLTD Snakebyte LH BKLS · ESP49Stable$1,841€1,649$1,841€1,649Check ↗
- 44
ESP LTD KH-602 Kirk Hammett SignatureLTD KH 602 LH BLK · ESP48Stable$1,674€1,499$1,674€1,499Check ↗
- 45
ESP LTD Iron Cross James Hetfield SignatureLTD Iron Cross LH SW · ESP48Stable$1,763€1,579$1,763€1,579Check ↗
- 46
Larry Carlton Q7 Tobacco Sunburst LHLarry Carlton51↓ 11.8%$669€599$669€599Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Fusion-IV HH LH MN HT EMG SBKHarley Benton · 8 finishes58Stable$557€499$557€499Check ↗
- 48
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622 Streamliner GM LH · Gretsch52Stable$646€579$646€579Check ↗
- 49
Sire Larry Carlton S7 FMS7 3TS New Gen LH · Larry Carlton46↓ 1.3%$825€739$825€739Check ↗
- 50
Schecter PT-7 MS Black OpsPT-7 MS Black Ops LH · Schecter46Stable$1,785€1,599$1,785€1,599Check ↗
Lefthanded Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 233 models we track, not a sample.
Median $501 — half of all lefthanded guitars here cost less.
median of 217 models · 41.3 mm (1.63")–48 mm (1.89")
median of 218 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 129 models · 21–24
most common · 186 models
How to choose the best lefthanded guitars
Neck Profile & Feel
This is paramount. A neck that feels awkward or fights your hand will kill your speed and articulation. We're looking for profiles that inspire effortless playing, whether it's a slim C, a vintage D, or something more modern. It needs to feel right under your fretting hand, especially when you're locked into a complex solo.
Pickup Voicing & Response
Generic pickups won't cut it. We need clarity, dynamic range, and a defined character. A vintage-voiced Strat pickup needs to deliver that glassy chime and warm low-end thump, while a high-output humbucker needs to retain articulation and avoid getting muddy in a dense mix. The ability to get screaming lead tones and clean, nuanced rhythm work is key.
Hardware Quality & Reliability
Pro players don't have time for tuning instability or hardware failures mid-set. Locking tuners are a must for quick changes and consistent tuning, and the bridge needs to offer sustain and intonation accuracy across the entire fretboard. Cheap hardware screams compromise.
Body Wood & Resonance
The wood choice significantly impacts the guitar's overall tone and sustain. Mahogany delivers warmth and sustain, alder offers a balanced response, and swamp ash provides a resonant, airy quality. The way the wood vibrates and interacts with the pickups is crucial for achieving a professional tone.
Ergonomics & Balance
A guitar that's uncomfortable to play, or that neck-dives dramatically when you bend a string, is a liability. We assess how the guitar feels balanced on a strap, how the body contours contribute to comfort, and whether the overall design allows for effortless access to all areas of the fretboard.
Buying guide
Finding a left-handed guitar that truly delivers at a professional level isn't easy. Most left-handed options feel like afterthoughts, re-bodied rights with compromised ergonomics and often, lackluster components. This isn't about finding something 'good enough'; it's about finding a tool that inspires and performs when you're laying down tracks or cutting through a loud band mix. We're focusing on guitars that left-handed pros demand.
Don't chase the 'left-handed' label alone. Many manufacturers simply re-body existing right-handed models, which often results in compromised ergonomics and lower-quality components. Pay close attention to the neck profile and fretwork - these are the areas most often skimped on in left-handed guitars.
Spending a little more on a higher-end model with quality hardware and a well-set-up neck will save you headaches (and money) in the long run.
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 233 lefthanded guitars 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 there really any good left-handed guitars?
Absolutely. Options are limited compared to right-handed instruments, but there are several excellent left-handed guitars out there, particularly from brands that prioritize left-handed production rather than just re-bodying right-handed models.
What's the deal with 'reverse headstock' guitars?
A reverse headstock is purely cosmetic. It doesn't inherently improve tone or playability, though some players find it aesthetically pleasing. It's more about visual flair than any functional benefit.
Should I consider a custom order?
If you're serious about finding the perfect left-handed guitar, a custom order is a great option. You can specify the neck profile, pickup voicing, and hardware to match your exact preferences. Be prepared for a wait and a higher price tag, though.
What's the best way to ensure a good setup?
Even a high-end guitar needs a proper setup. Take it to a reputable luthier to have the action adjusted, intonation checked, and fretwork inspected. A well-set-up guitar will play significantly better than one that's not.
Are left-handed guitars more expensive?
Generally, yes. Due to lower production volumes, left-handed guitars often command a premium. Factor that into your budget when shopping.
