Best Short Scale Basses Under $300 2025

Affordable short scale basses under $300 - great value without compromising quality

Last updated: October 22, 2025 • Next update: October 29, 2025

PRICE RANGES: Under $200 Under $300 Under $500 Under $800 Under $1,000 Under $2,000 Under $5,000

SKILL LEVELS: For Beginner For Intermediate For Professional For Advanced

GENRES & STYLES: For Pop For Indie For Alternative For Studio Work For Comfortable Playing For Vintage Tones

BRANDS: Squier Sandberg Ibanez Fender Höfner Gretsch

Epiphone EB-0 CH - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Epiphone EB-0 CH

by Epiphone

Vintage Tones Studio Work Pop

Key Feature:

• Lower string tension

✓ PROS

• Great for extended playing
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• Not traditional bass sound
• May lack power for some styles

Epiphone EB-0 CHElectric bassMahogany bodyMahogany neckGranadillo fingerboardNeck profile: Slim Taper DNut width: 38...

⭐ 4.9/5 (10 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 124485

$283

Buy at Thomann View Details

Jackson JS1X CB Minion AH FB SIL BRST - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Jackson JS1X CB Minion AH FB SIL BRST

by Jackson

Vintage Tones Pop Alternative

Key Feature:

• Comfortable neck reach

✓ PROS

• Unique tonal character
• Great for extended playing

✗ CONS

• Limited string gauge options
• Less low-end extension

Jackson JS1X CB Minion AH FB SIL BRSTElectric BassBody: PoplarBolt-on neck: MapleFingerboard: AmaranthPearloid Sharkfin...

⭐ 4.7/5 (9 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 620080

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez GSRM20B-WK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (18 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Ibanez GSRM20B-WK

by Ibanez

Studio Work Pop Comfortable Playing

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Easier playing for smaller hands
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• Less low-end extension
• Limited string gauge options

Ibanez GSRM20B-WKElectric BassBody: PoplarMaple neckFretboard: New Zealand pineScale: 726 mm (28.6" short scale)22...

⭐ 4.9/5 (18 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 415218

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass

by Höfner

Vintage Tones Alternative Studio Work

Key Feature:

• Great for extended playing

✓ PROS

• Unique tonal character
• Lower string tension

✗ CONS

• Not traditional bass sound
• Different string spacing

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass, Electric BassInspired by its legendary predecessors, it combines the charm of the Shorty...

⭐ 4.9/5 (51 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 522568

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez GSRM20-SLB - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (39 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Ibanez GSRM20-SLB

by Ibanez

Alternative Pop Vintage Tones

Key Feature:

• Lower string tension

✓ PROS

• Comfortable neck reach
• Easier playing for smaller hands

✗ CONS

• Limited string gauge options
• Different string spacing

Ibanez GSR20-SLBElectric BassmiKro seriesBody: PoplarNeck: Bolt-on mapleFingerboard: JatobaNeck profile:...

⭐ 4.7/5 (39 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 518051

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic Whi Bundle - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.9/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic Whi Bundle

by Squier

Vintage Tones Indie Pop

Key Feature:

• Great for extended playing

✓ PROS

• Unique tonal character
• Easier playing for smaller hands

✗ CONS

• Limited string gauge options
• Different string spacing

Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic Whi Bundle*Bundle offer comprising*, Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic White*Electric Bass*Body:...

⭐ 4.9/5 (52 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 579609

$222

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez TMB30-IV - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.7/5 (55 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Ibanez TMB30-IV

by Ibanez

Indie Studio Work Vintage Tones

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Lower string tension
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• Not traditional bass sound
• Less low-end extension

Ibanez TMB30-IVElectric BassBody: PoplarNeck: MapleFretboard: Jatoba20 FretsNut width: 41 mmScale: 762 mm...

⭐ 4.7/5 (55 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 387082

$252

Buy at Thomann View Details

Flight Mini Bass Lite BL - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (40 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Flight Mini Bass Lite BL

by Flight

Comfortable Playing Alternative Indie

Key Feature:

• Unique tonal character

✓ PROS

• Comfortable neck reach
• Easier playing for smaller hands

✗ CONS

• Different string spacing
• Limited string gauge options

Flight Mini Bass Lite BLMini Electric BassRock SeriesBody: Solid basswoodNeck: MapleFingerboard: LaurelFingerboard...

⭐ 4.6/5 (40 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 614538

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion RD - Professional Music Instrument Photo

⭐ 4.6/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion RD

by Jackson

Comfortable Playing Vintage Tones Pop

Key Feature:

• Lower string tension

✓ PROS

• Lower string tension
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• Less low-end extension
• Limited string gauge options

Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion RDElectric BassBody: PoplarNeck: MapleFingerboard: AmaranthPearloid Sharkfin...

⭐ 4.6/5 (25 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 594449

$230

Buy at Thomann View Details

Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin Blk - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#10

⭐ 4.7/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin Blk

by Jackson

Vintage Tones Comfortable Playing Studio Work

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Unique tonal character
• Great for extended playing

✗ CONS

• Different string spacing
• May lack power for some styles

Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin BlkElectric BassPoplar bodyBolt-on maple neck with graphite reinforcement and scarf...

⭐ 4.7/5 (32 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 417598

$213

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short Scale - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#11

⭐ 4.7/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short Scale

by Ibanez

Indie Pop Alternative

Key Feature:

• Lower string tension

✓ PROS

• Easier playing for smaller hands
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• May lack power for some styles
• Different string spacing

Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short ScaleElectric bassBody: PoplarNeck: MapleFretboard: JatobaWhite fretboard inlaysFretboard...

⭐ 4.7/5 (35 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

8/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 457381

$241

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez GSRM20-BK - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#12

⭐ 4.8/5 (54 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Ibanez GSRM20-BK

by Ibanez

Indie Pop Vintage Tones

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Comfortable neck reach
• Easier playing for smaller hands

✗ CONS

• Different string spacing
• May lack power for some styles

Ibanez GSRM20-BKElectric BassBody: PoplarNeck: Maple22 FretsFretboard: RosewoodB10 BridgePickups: P/J styleShort scale...

⭐ 4.8/5 (54 reviews)

Sound:

9/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 236793

$226

Buy at Thomann View Details

Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red Bundle - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#13

⭐ 4.8/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red Bundle

by Squier

Vintage Tones Indie Comfortable Playing

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Lower string tension
• Great for extended playing

✗ CONS

• Not traditional bass sound
• Limited string gauge options

Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red Bundle*Bundle offer comprising*, Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red*Mini Electric Bass*Body:...

⭐ 4.8/5 (7 reviews)

Sound:

8/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

8/10

Art. 618767

$215

Buy at Thomann View Details

Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short Scale - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#14

⭐ 4.6/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short Scale

by Ibanez

Comfortable Playing Indie Studio Work

Key Feature:

• Easier playing for smaller hands

✓ PROS

• Lower string tension
• Unique tonal character

✗ CONS

• Limited string gauge options
• Less low-end extension

Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short ScaleElectric BassShort-scale modelBody: PoplarNeck: MapleFretboard: Jatoba20 FretsScale:...

⭐ 4.6/5 (22 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

7/10

Value:

7/10

Art. 379412

$252

Buy at Thomann View Details

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass CT Red - Professional Music Instrument Photo

#15

⭐ 4.9/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass CT Red

by Höfner

Comfortable Playing Vintage Tones Alternative

Key Feature:

• Great for extended playing

✓ PROS

• Easier playing for smaller hands
• Comfortable neck reach

✗ CONS

• May lack power for some styles
• Not traditional bass sound

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass CT RedElectric BassCombines the charm of the Shorty Bass with the vintage flair of a real...

⭐ 4.9/5 (23 reviews)

Sound:

7/10

Build:

9/10

Value:

9/10

Art. 559114

$252

Buy at Thomann View Details

How to Choose the Best Short Scale Basses

Budget Planning

• Under $200: Entry-level
• $200-$500: Intermediate
• $500-$1000: Advanced
• $1000+: Professional

Quality Check

• Sound clarity & tone
• Build materials & finish
• Hardware durability
• Overall craftsmanship

Key Features

• Your musical style
• Skill level match
• Intended use case
• Brand reputation

Frequently Asked Questions

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Higher-priced short scale basses typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

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TOP

Best Short Scale Basses Under $300 2025

Epiphone EB-0 CH

Jackson JS1X CB Minion AH FB SIL BRST

Ibanez GSRM20B-WK

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass

Ibanez GSRM20-SLB

Squier Sonic Bronco Arctic Whi Bundle

Ibanez TMB30-IV

Flight Mini Bass Lite BL

Jackson JS1X Concert Bass Minion RD

Jackson JS1X Concert Minion Satin Blk

Ibanez TMB30-MGR Talman Short Scale

Ibanez GSRM20-BK

Squier Mini P Bass Dakota Red Bundle

Ibanez TMB30-BK Talman Short Scale

Höfner Shorty Violin Bass CT Red

How to Choose the Best Short Scale Basses

Budget Planning

Quality Check

Key Features

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I look for when buying short scale basses?

How much should I spend on short scale basses?

Are expensive short scale basses worth the investment?

What are the best brands for short scale basses?

Should I buy short scale basses online or in-store?

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