AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Lefthanded Guitars Under $1,000 2026
The top pick is Fender Player II Telecaster ($899). Harley Benton ST-20HSS LH SBK gives you the most for the money at $125. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 92 models across 15 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 19, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Fender Player II Telecaster
Player II Tele LH RW CGR · Fender
682 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This guitar feels like a well-built workhorse for lefty players who want that classic Tele sound. The bright Alnico 5 pickups cut through any mix, and the strings-thru-body bridge keeps the notes ringing long. It is a straightforward, reliable choice for those who don't need fancy knobs or flashy colors.
Pros
- Left-handed design suits players who prefer playing from the left
- Alder body and maple neck provide a balanced, solid foundation
- Alnico 5 single coils deliver bright, cutting Telecaster tone
Cons
- No output jack makes cable connection difficult for some setups
- Lacks a dedicated master tone knob for nuanced sound shaping
81AudioFu
Index↓ 7.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$967 · Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Fender Player II Stratocaster
Player II Strat LH MN AQB · Fender
645 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius241 mm (9.49")
- BodyAlder body
This Player II Strat LH is a solid choice for left-handed players seeking a versatile, modern Strat experience. The comfortable neck and punchy pickups make it a great all-around instrument, particularly well-suited for rock, blues, and pop. It’s a very well-built and affordable option that delivers a lot of value for the money.
Pros
- Alder body provides a balanced, resonant tone with good sustain.
- Modern 'C' neck profile offers a comfortable and familiar feel for many players.
- Player Series Alnico 5 pickups deliver a clear, articulate Strat sound with plenty of bite.
Cons
- Maple fretboard can feel a little slick for some, consider a lemon oil treatment.
- Bolt-on neck construction lacks the warmth and complexity of a set-neck design.
78AudioFu
Index↓ 2.4%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$922 · Aug 17$899 now$899€799 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Frets24 frets
- BodyMahogany body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This SE Custom 24 BG LH is a fantastic left-handed option for players wanting a PRS feel without the premium price tag. The mahogany body gives it a nice warmth, and the 85/15 pickups are surprisingly versatile. It's a great all-rounder for rock, blues, and even some cleaner styles, especially for players looking for a comfortable neck profile.
Pros
- Mahogany body provides warmth and sustain, a surprisingly rich tone.
- 85/15 pickups offer versatile tones, from chime to thick rock crunch.
- Wide thin neck profile is comfortable for various hand sizes and playing styles.
Cons
- Mahogany body can make it feel a bit heavier than some players prefer.
- Rosewood fingerboard might feel a little dry to some, requiring occasional conditioning.
61AudioFu
Index↓ 11.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$1,068 · Aug 17$950 now$950€844 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- BodyBasswood body
- FingerboardLaurel fingerboard
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.
Cons
- Basswood body can feel a bit 'soft' and prone to dings.
- Synchronized tremolo system is basic and may require tweaking for tuning stability.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$125 now$125€111 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets21 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- BodyBasswood body
This lefty Harley Benton is a real steal for players craving a classic Tele vibe. The Roswell pickups are a standout, providing a surprisingly vintage-voiced tone. It’s a fantastic starting point for beginners or a fun, budget-friendly option for experienced players wanting a quirky, reliable instrument.
Pros
- Roswell pickups deliver surprisingly articulate and warm vintage-voiced tones.
- Caramelized maple neck offers a smooth, fast feel with a subtle sweetness.
- Bolt-on construction provides a bright, snappy response and easy adjustability.
Cons
- Basswood body lacks the sustain and resonance of more premium tonewoods.
- Bolt-on neck can sound less 'integrated' compared to set-neck designs.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 6.3%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$179 · Aug 17$168 now$168€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Sire Larry Carlton L7
L7 New Gen Amber Burst LH · Larry Carlton
16 for sale on Reverb4 finishes at Thomann
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale629 mm (24.76")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
This lefty guitar feels solid thanks to the mahogany body and maple top. The vintage humbuckers give a thick sound perfect for blues or rock. It is a great choice if you want a classic feel without the heavy price tag.
Pros
- Solid mahogany body offers rich, warm resonance for blues and rock.
- Flamed maple top adds bright sparkle to cut through loud mixes.
- Graph Tech Tusq XL nut ensures smooth, even string vibration.
Cons
- No weight is listed, so heavy left-handed models may be tough.
- Lack of a cutaway makes reaching high frets slightly difficult.
60AudioFu
Index↓ 4.1%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$820 · Aug 17$787 now$787€699 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets21 frets
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyBasswood body
This lefty Harley Benton is a seriously cool vintage-inspired machine. Those P90s deliver a raw, bluesy growl, and the bolt-on neck makes it comfortable to play for hours. It's a fantastic option for players wanting that classic P90 vibe without spending a fortune.
Pros
- Basswood body delivers a warm, resonant, and surprisingly balanced tone
- Roswell P90s provide that classic, gritty vintage tone with plenty of character
- Bolt-on neck with caramel maple offers a comfortable, familiar feel and easy playability
Cons
- Fixed bridge limits tremolo/vibrato capabilities and future upgrade options
- Basswood, while warm, lacks the sustain and punch of mahogany or ash
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$179 now$179€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale635 mm (25")
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
- BodyMeranti body
This left-handed CST-24T is a seriously impressive offering. The roasted fingerboard and Roswell pickups are a winning combination for a wide range of styles, especially rock and blues. It’s a fantastic value for players seeking a versatile, well-built instrument with a tremolo system.
Pros
- Roasted jatoba fingerboard offers excellent feel and stability
- Roswell HAF pickups deliver surprisingly articulate and warm tones
- Wilkinson tremolo provides reliable performance and tuning stability
Cons
- Meranti body can feel a bit plain sonically compared to mahogany
- Graphite nut, while consistent, lacks the warmth of bone or tusq
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$303 now$303€269 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyNyatoh body
- FingerboardRosewood fingerboard
This lefty guitar feels solid thanks to the roasted maple neck and comfortable rosewood fingerboard. The Alnico 5 humbuckers give a warm, smooth sound that works well for rock and blues. It suits players who want a reliable workhorse without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Left-handed model for easy playability
- Roasted maple neck for better stability
- Alnico 5 pickups for warm tone
Cons
- Limited to two volume and tone controls
- No active electronics for clean boost
58AudioFu
Index↓ 4.0%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$562 · Aug 17$539 now$539€479 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width43 mm (1.69")
- Scale628 mm (24.72")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius350 mm (13.78")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
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
Cons
- Poplar body can be slightly prone to finish checking with age
- Roseacer fingerboard might feel a touch less refined than ebony or maple
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$156 now$156€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 92 lefthanded guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton ST-62CC MN LH Seafoam GreenHarley Benton · 4 finishes57Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 12
Ibanez GRX70QA GioGRX70QAL-TBB GIO · Ibanez57Stable$268€238$268€238Check ↗
- 13
Harley Benton ST-Modern Plus MN HSS LH SPHarley Benton · 7 finishes57Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH MS w/CaseHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$325€289$325€289Check ↗
- 15
Epiphone SG Tribute PlusSG Tribute Plus VS LH · Epiphone · 3 finishes56↓ 9.0%$388€345$388€345Check ↗
- 16
Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus EB LH · Epiphone · 3 finishes55Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton Fusion-T II HH LH RW SGDHarley Benton · 5 finishes55Stable$505€449$505€449Check ↗
- 18
Schecter C-6 DeluxeC-6 Deluxe LH SB · Schecter55Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 19
Yamaha Revstar II Standard RSS20Revstar RSS20 Lefthand Black · Yamaha54Stable$874€777$874€777Check ↗
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Harley Benton TE-20HH LH SBKHarley Benton · 4 finishes53Stable$125€111$125€111Check ↗
- 21
Harley Benton DC-580LH CH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes53Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 22
Ibanez RGA42AHRGA42FML-BLF · Ibanez53↓ 8.4%$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 23
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622 Streamliner GM LH · Gretsch53Stable$652€579$652€579Check ↗
- 24
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom EB LH · Epiphone53Stable$719€639$719€639Check ↗
- 25
Schecter Omen Extreme-6Omen Extreme 6 BCH LH · Schecter53Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton Fusion-III LH HSH EB FBBHarley Benton52↓ 14.3%$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 27
Schecter Omen Elite-7Omen Elite-7 MS BL Cherry LH · Schecter52Stable$978€869$978€869Check ↗
- 28
Harley Benton TE-52 NA LH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes51Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 29
Harley Benton MS-60LH VW Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 30
Harley Benton TE-90FLT LH VW Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 31
Harley Benton HB-35Plus LH Cherry w/BagHarley Benton · 2 finishes51Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 32
Jackson JS Series JS32Q DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth FretboardJS32L Dinky DKA AH BBL · Jackson · 2 finishes51Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 33
Larry Carlton Q7 Tobacco Sunburst LHLarry Carlton51↓ 11.8%$674€599$674€599Check ↗
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Larry Carlton T7 BK New Gen LHLarry Carlton · 3 finishes51Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 35
Ibanez GRG121DX GioGRG121DXL-WNF · Ibanez50Stable$266€236$266€236Check ↗
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Schecter Omen Extreme-7Omen Extreme-7 LH BKCH · Schecter50Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
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Harley Benton TE-40 LH TBK Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
- 38
Harley Benton ST-Modern HSS LH LPBHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 39
Yamaha PAC112VM Pacifica HSSPacifica 112JL BL · Yamaha · 2 finishes49Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 40
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HTJS22-L Dinky BLK · Jackson49Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton SC-550LH II PAFHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 42
Larry Carlton H7V VS LHLarry Carlton · 2 finishes49↓ 9.3%$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 43
Harley Benton Extreme-76LH BKHarley Benton48Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
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Harley Benton Extreme-76LH BK w/BagHarley Benton48Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton Amarok 7 LH BKNT Flame w/CaseHarley Benton48Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
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Harley Benton R-446LH Graphite MetallicHarley Benton · 2 finishes47Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton SC-1000LH SBK Progressive LineHarley Benton · 2 finishes47Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 48
Larry Carlton L5 Amber Burst LHLarry Carlton47↓ 4.2%$625€555$625€555Check ↗
- 49
Harley Benton ST-JAMster LH SCAHarley Benton46Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton JA-Baritone LH BKHarley Benton46Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
Lefthanded Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 182 models we track, not a sample.
Median $359 — half of all lefthanded guitars here cost less.
median of 173 models · 42 mm (1.65")–44.6 mm (1.76")
median of 171 models · 628 mm (24.72")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 111 models · 21–24
most common · 156 models
How to choose the best lefthanded guitars
Neck Profile
A comfortable neck is everything. Thin, fast necks are great for shredding, but a chunkier neck can offer better sustain and feel more substantial - especially for blues or rock. We looked for necks that felt good in the hand, without being a wrestling match.
Pickup Voicing
Don't expect boutique-level clarity or scorching high-gain tones at this price point. However, some pickups will deliver a usable, balanced response - a decent crunch, a warm clean, and enough articulation to track cleanly. Avoid anything that sounds muddy or brittle.
Hardware Quality
Tuners are a huge deal. Cheap tuners will have you constantly retuning mid-song. Bridges also matter - a fixed bridge is rock-solid, while a tremolo system needs to be decent to stay in tune and not feel like it's going to disintegrate.
Construction & Finish
Solid wood bodies (even if it's mahogany or basswood) generally resonate better than laminate. The finish doesn't need to be flawless, but look for consistent fretwork and a clean overall build. Sharp fret ends or uneven frets are a pain to deal with.
Overall Ergonomics
How does the guitar feel? Is the body shape comfortable to hold? Is the access to the upper frets good? These are subjective, but a guitar that's uncomfortable to play will just get ignored.
Buying guide
Finding a decent left-handed guitar that doesn't feel like you're robbing a pawn shop is tougher than it used to be. Seriously, the left-handed market gets short shrift. But don't despair - there are solid options under $1000 that'll get you gig-ready, recording-capable, and generally avoid sounding like a strangled cat. This list is about getting the most 'bang for your buck' - a guitar that'll actually inspire you to play, not just sit in the corner gathering dust.
At this price, you're making trade-offs. Don't expect premium components or flawless execution. Corners get cut - often in the hardware and finish.
Fretwork is a big one to check - a fret leveling might be in order down the line. Prioritize a comfortable neck and decent pickups over flashy aesthetics; those are the things you'll be interacting with constantly. Spend a little extra on a good setup from a local tech - it'll make a huge difference.
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 182 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 any truly 'solid wood' guitars under $1000 for lefties?
Finding a mahogany or alder body is tough, but basswood is common and provides decent resonance. Many will be 'laminated' which isn't terrible, but a solid wood body will generally have more sustain and character.
What about 'starter packs' - are those a good deal?
Often, they're not. The guitars in starter packs are usually very basic and the amps are frequently underpowered and sound awful. You're better off buying a single, decent guitar and a used amp.
Can I realistically expect a humbucker guitar to be good for clean tones?
It depends on the pickups. Some humbuckers are voiced for high-gain, but others have a surprisingly usable clean tone. Listen for a pickup that doesn't sound overly harsh or compressed when clean.
What's the deal with 'setup' - is it really that important?
Absolutely. A factory setup is often a compromise. A proper setup - adjusting the action, intonation, and fretwork - will dramatically improve playability and tuning stability.
I'm a beginner - does it matter which guitar I choose?
Yes, it does. A guitar that's difficult to play or sounds bad will discourage you. Choose something that feels comfortable and inspires you to pick it up and practice.
