AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Lefthanded Guitars Under $800 2026
The top pick is Harley Benton ST-20HSS LH SBK ($125). Sire Larry Carlton L7 leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 83 models across 13 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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- 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 ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Frets22 frets
- Fingerboard radius305 mm (12.01")
- Neck profileC-shape neck
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.
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.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$179 now$179€159 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- BodyPoplar body
This Ibanez GIO is a fantastic entry point for left-handed players wanting that Ibanez vibe. The neck profile is genuinely good for fast playing, and the pickups handle a surprising range of styles, from crunchy rhythm to cleaner leads. It's a well-rounded instrument for beginners and gigging musicians on a budget.
Pros
- Quilted maple top adds visual flair and a touch of resonance
- GRX neck profile is surprisingly comfortable and fast playing
- Infinity pickups deliver a surprisingly powerful and versatile sound
Cons
- Poplar body can feel a little 'soft' and prone to dents
- T106 tremolo is basic, offering limited tuning stability
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$268 now$268€238 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Nut width42 mm (1.65")
- Scale648 mm (25.51")
- Neck profileD-shape neck
- BodyAlder body
- FingerboardMaple fingerboard
This lefty ST-Modern Plus is a seriously impressive value. The roasted maple neck and Tesla pickups give it a surprisingly refined and versatile tone, perfect for modern rock, blues, and even some funk. It's a great option for intermediate players or those wanting a quality instrument without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Roasted maple neck provides exceptional stability and a smooth feel.
- Tesla pickups deliver a surprisingly articulate and punchy HSS voice.
- Graphite nut minimizes friction and enhances tuning stability.
Cons
- Alder body might feel slightly plain for players seeking a premium aesthetic.
- Bridge hardware is functional, but a higher-end tremolo would elevate the experience.
All 83 lefthanded guitars
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Harley Benton R-458MN LH WH MS w/CaseHarley Benton · 3 finishes56Stable$325€289$325€289Check ↗
- 12
Epiphone SG Tribute PlusSG Tribute Plus VS LH · Epiphone · 3 finishes56↓ 9.0%$388€345$388€345Check ↗
- 13
Epiphone Les Paul Tribute PlusLes Paul Tribute Plus EB LH · Epiphone · 3 finishes55Stable$426€379$426€379Check ↗
- 14
Harley Benton Fusion-T II HH LH RW SGDHarley Benton · 5 finishes55Stable$505€449$505€449Check ↗
- 15
Schecter C-6 DeluxeC-6 Deluxe LH SB · Schecter55Stable$562€499$562€499Check ↗
- 16
Harley Benton TE-20HH LH SBKHarley Benton · 4 finishes53Stable$125€111$125€111Check ↗
- 17
Harley Benton DC-580LH CH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes53Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 18
Ibanez RGA42AHRGA42FML-BLF · Ibanez53↓ 8.4%$494€439$494€439Check ↗
- 19
Gretsch G2622 Streamliner Center Block Double-Cut with V-StoptailG2622 Streamliner GM LH · Gretsch53Stable$652€579$652€579Check ↗
- 20
Epiphone SG CustomSG Custom EB LH · Epiphone53Stable$719€639$719€639Check ↗
- 21
Schecter Omen Extreme-6Omen Extreme 6 BCH LH · Schecter53Stable$730€649$730€649Check ↗
- 22
Harley Benton Fusion-III LH HSH EB FBBHarley Benton52↓ 14.3%$336€299$336€299Check ↗
- 23
Harley Benton TE-52 NA LH Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes51Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 24
Harley Benton MS-60LH VW Vintage SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 25
Harley Benton TE-90FLT LH VW Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 4 finishes51Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 26
Harley Benton HB-35Plus LH Cherry w/BagHarley Benton · 2 finishes51Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 27
Jackson JS Series JS32Q DKA HT Dinky Archtop with Amaranth FretboardJS32L Dinky DKA AH BBL · Jackson · 2 finishes51Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 28
Larry Carlton Q7 Tobacco Sunburst LHLarry Carlton51↓ 11.8%$674€599$674€599Check ↗
- 29
Larry Carlton T7 BK New Gen LHLarry Carlton · 3 finishes51Stable$775€689$775€689Check ↗
- 30
Ibanez GRG121DX GioGRG121DXL-WNF · Ibanez50Stable$266€236$266€236Check ↗
- 31
Schecter Omen Extreme-7Omen Extreme-7 LH BKCH · Schecter50Stable$787€699$787€699Check ↗
- 32
Harley Benton TE-40 LH TBK Deluxe SeriesHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
- 33
Harley Benton ST-Modern HSS LH LPBHarley Benton · 3 finishes49Stable$201€179$201€179Check ↗
- 34
Yamaha PAC112VM Pacifica HSSPacifica 112JL BL · Yamaha · 2 finishes49Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 35
Jackson JS Series Surfcaster JS22 HTJS22-L Dinky BLK · Jackson49Stable$303€269$303€269Check ↗
- 36
Harley Benton SC-550LH II PAFHarley Benton · 2 finishes49Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 37
Larry Carlton H7V VS LHLarry Carlton · 2 finishes49↓ 9.3%$673€598$673€598Check ↗
- 38
Harley Benton Extreme-76LH BKHarley Benton48Stable$168€149$168€149Check ↗
- 39
Harley Benton Extreme-76LH BK w/BagHarley Benton48Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 40
Harley Benton Amarok 7 LH BKNT Flame w/CaseHarley Benton48Stable$640€569$640€569Check ↗
- 41
Harley Benton R-446LH Graphite MetallicHarley Benton · 2 finishes47Stable$179€159$179€159Check ↗
- 42
Harley Benton SC-1000LH SBK Progressive LineHarley Benton · 2 finishes47Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 43
Larry Carlton L5 Amber Burst LHLarry Carlton47↓ 4.2%$625€555$625€555Check ↗
- 44
Harley Benton ST-JAMster LH SCAHarley Benton46Stable$156€139$156€139Check ↗
- 45
Harley Benton JA-Baritone LH BKHarley Benton46Stable$235€209$235€209Check ↗
- 46
Harley Benton SC-Custom III LH VBKHarley Benton46Stable$359€319$359€319Check ↗
- 47
Harley Benton Fusion-T HH LH Roasted FNTHarley Benton46Stable$393€349$393€349Check ↗
- 48
Ibanez RG7421EXL Standard Left-HandedRG7421EXL-BKF · Ibanez46↓ 2.8%$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 49
Harley Benton MAX Fusion LH HO w/CaseHarley Benton46Stable$584€519$584€519Check ↗
- 50
Harley Benton Amarok 7 LH BKNT Flame BurstHarley Benton46Stable$618€549$618€549Check ↗
Lefthanded Guitars by the numbers
Measured across all 165 models we track, not a sample.
Median $303 — half of all lefthanded guitars here cost less.
median of 158 models · 42 mm (1.65")–44.6 mm (1.76")
median of 156 models · 627 mm (24.69")–648 mm (25.51")
median of 97 models · 21–24
most common · 141 models
How to choose the best lefthanded guitars
Playability (Neck Profile & Action)
A chunky neck or high action will kill your motivation. We're looking for something comfortable to play, especially if you're still developing your chops. A low-to-medium action is a huge plus.
Pickup Voicing
At this price point, you're unlikely to get boutique-grade pickups, but we're looking for something that isn't offensively harsh or muddy. A little clarity and definition is key for cutting through a mix.
Hardware Quality (Tuners & Bridge)
Cheap tuners will have you retuning mid-song, and a flimsy bridge will impact sustain and intonation. Decent hardware doesn't need to be locking or high-end, but it needs to hold tune and stay put.
Construction & Materials
Solid wood bodies (even if it's mahogany or basswood) generally offer better resonance than laminate. Dovetail neck joints are a bonus, indicating a bit more care in the build process.
Overall Aesthetics & Finish
Let's be honest, looks matter. A well-applied finish isn't just about looks; it protects the wood. We're not expecting relic'd perfection, but a sloppy finish can be a sign of corners cut elsewhere.
Buying guide
Finding a decent left-handed guitar that doesn't make you weep when you check your bank account is a challenge. We get it - you want something that can handle a gig, record a decent clean tone, and not fall apart after a few months of practice. This list isn't about dream guitars; it's about the best you can realistically get for under $800 when you're playing lefty.
At this budget, expect compromises. You're not getting a maple top or figured neck. Common trade-offs are lower-grade hardware and simpler electronics.
Focus on the neck profile and action - those are the biggest factors in playability. Don't be afraid to buy used; you can often snag a significantly better instrument for the same price.
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 165 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 these guitars gig-worthy?
Absolutely, but manage your expectations. They'll handle a pub gig or small club just fine, but don't expect pristine studio tone straight out of the box. Some upgrades (like pickups) might be beneficial down the line.
What about the neck profile? What should I look for?
That's hugely personal. Generally, a 'C' shape is a safe bet - versatile for most playing styles. Avoid anything too chunky or thin if you're unsure. Try before you buy if possible.
Can I realistically upgrade the pickups?
Yes, absolutely. It's one of the most common and impactful upgrades. Just make sure the guitar's wiring and electronics are compatible with your chosen pickups.
Are there any left-handed guitars under $500 that are worth considering?
The options are more limited, and you'll definitely be making more significant compromises. Squier Affinity series guitars can be decent starters, but be prepared for potential neck warping and lower-quality hardware.
What's the difference between mahogany and basswood?
Mahogany tends to have a warmer, more mid-focused tone with a bit more sustain. Basswood is generally brighter and more balanced, often favored for higher-gain styles. Neither is inherently 'better' - it's about the tone you're after.
