Best Fender ST Style Guitars 2026
Alright, so you’re in the market for a Fender ST-style guitar? Smart move. They’re iconic for a reason, but ‘ST-style’ covers a *lot* of ground, from budget Mexican models to meticulously crafted American vintage reissues. Let's cut through the noise and figure out which one's right for your ears and your wallet – whether you’re gigging out, tracking in a studio, or just jamming at home.
Last updated: June 17, 2026 • Next update: June 24, 2026
⚡ The best st style guitars in 2026 are Fender 60 Strat LPB JM Relic (top pick), Fender 59 Strat 2TSB Relic for tighter budgets, and Fender 65 Strat CAR JM Relic for pros — selected from 15 options, priced $1,758–$6,928, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Fender 60 Strat LPB JM Relic
by
Fender
Funk
Pop
Rock
Key Feature:
This Fender 60 Strat is a serious contender for players chasing that authentic vintage vibe. The Custom Shop build and those '60s spec pickups nail the classic Strat tone, while the relic’d finish gives it a well-worn feel. It’s ideal for blues, rock, and jazz players who appreciate a high-end instrument with a real pedigree.
PROS
- • Custom Shop build quality elevates this Strat beyond standard production models.
- • ’60s oval ‘C’ neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability for vintage feels.
- • Custom Shop pickups deliver authentic, articulate Strat tones with surprising output.
- • Journeyman Relic finish provides aged aesthetics without sacrificing structural integrity.
CONS
- • The relic'd finish, while visually appealing, isn't for players wanting pristine condition.
- • The 9.5” radius may feel flat for players accustomed to more modern, compound radii.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for many guitarists.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611796
$5,719
#2
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Fender 59 Strat 2TSB Relic
by
Fender
Country
Blues
Indie
Key Feature:
This 59 Relic is a serious contender for vintage Strat lovers. The attention to detail in the relicing, neck profile, and pickup voicing is superb, capturing that classic Strat tone and feel. It's ideal for players seeking an authentic, well-played-in vibe and a premium-priced instrument that delivers the goods.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '50s pickups deliver authentic, bell-like clarity and chime.
- • The '59 'D' neck profile is remarkably comfortable and instantly familiar.
- • Relic finish convincingly replicates the wear of a genuine vintage instrument.
- • American Vintage tremolo provides smooth, vintage-correct vibrato action.
CONS
- • Relic finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may not appeal to all players.
- • The 7.25” radius fingerboard can feel a bit round for modern players.
- • Alder body, while resonant, can make it slightly heavier than some alternatives.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611677
$5,774
#3
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Fender 65 Strat CAR JM Relic
by
Fender
Indie
Rock
Funk
Key Feature:
This is a seriously dialed-in Strat, perfectly capturing that mid-’60s vibe. The relic'd finish and aged hardware look and feel fantastic, while the custom pickups offer a sweet, articulate tone. It’s a dream for players chasing classic Fender tones and a vintage aesthetic, but it’s an investment.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '65 single coils deliver authentic, bell-like vintage Strat tones.
- • The 7.25” radius rosewood fingerboard offers exceptional playability and vintage feel.
- • Journeyman Relic finish replicates the wear of a well-loved, played-in instrument.
- • Alder body provides a balanced resonance with warmth and clarity.
CONS
- • The Relic finish, while aesthetically pleasing, may not appeal to all players.
- • The 9mm fingerboard profile is thinner than modern Strats; an adjustment may be needed.
- • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for players on a tighter budget.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 611811
$5,719
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Fender 70th Anni 1954 Strat SHREL SB
by
Fender
Indie
Pop
Blues
Key Feature:
This 70th Anniversary Strat is a serious recreation of a '54, nailing the feel and tone. The ash body and custom pickups deliver a fantastic, classic Strat voice, and the relic'd finish gives it undeniable vintage charm. It’s ideal for players chasing that authentic, slightly raw, early Strat vibe and have the budget to invest.
PROS
- • The 2-piece ash body delivers a resonant, balanced tone with excellent sustain.
- • Custom '54 single coils provide authentic vintage Strat tones, clear and bell-like.
- • The '54-style neck profile is exceptionally comfortable and historically accurate.
- • The Super Heavy Relic finish replicates a well-loved, played-in instrument's character.
CONS
- • The Super Heavy Relic finish might not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
- • The compound radius fingerboard isn't universally preferred, potentially awkward for some.
- • Being a premium-priced instrument, it's a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 621727
$6,929
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Fender 57 Strat WBL Relic
by
Fender
Rock
Blues
Pop
Key Feature:
This Fender 57 Relic is a seriously impressive instrument, capturing the essence of a vintage Strat. The neck profile and pickups are spot-on, and the relic'd aesthetic gives it undeniable character. It's a premium-priced option best suited for serious players and collectors seeking a genuine vintage feel and tone.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '50s pickups deliver authentic, bell-like Strat tone.
- • The '57 V-neck profile is remarkably comfortable and vintage-accurate.
- • Alder body provides a balanced resonance, not overly bright or muddy.
- • Relic finish replicates the wear of a well-loved, original 1957 Strat.
CONS
- • The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, might not appeal to all players.
- • The tremolo system, while vintage-correct, can be finicky and requires setup.
- • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many aspiring guitarists.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611668
$5,774
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Fender 57 Strat WBL JM Relic
by
Fender
Pop
Funk
Country
Key Feature:
This is a seriously refined Strat. The relic'd look is spot-on, the neck profile is a dream, and those pickups have that classic, glassy Strat tone. It's a premium-priced instrument perfect for players chasing a genuine vintage vibe and top-tier build quality.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '50s Strat pickups deliver authentic, bell-like clarity and chime.
- • The '57 V-neck profile offers exceptional comfort and vintage feel.
- • Journeyman Relic finish replicates aged aesthetics without excessive wear.
- • American Vintage tremolo provides smooth, nuanced vibrato capabilities.
CONS
- • Alder body, while resonant, may be slightly heavier than ash alternatives.
- • Relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, might not appeal to all players.
- • The 9.5” radius can feel a bit flat for players accustomed to modern profiles.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 611664
$5,554
#7
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Fender 56 Strat Black Relic
by
Fender
Pop
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This is a seriously dialed-in recreation of a '56 Strat, built by Fender's Custom Shop. The neck profile is spot-on, the pickups are gorgeous, and the relic’d finish gives it undeniable vintage vibe. It's ideal for players chasing that authentic, articulate Strat tone for blues, jazz, and classic rock.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '50s Strat pickups deliver that classic, bell-like clarity and chime.
- • The '56 V-neck profile offers a comfortable, familiar feel for vintage Strat players.
- • Alder body provides a balanced tone with warmth and sustain.
- • Relic finish authentically replicates the wear of a well-loved vintage instrument.
CONS
- • The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, isn't for everyone and can be a concern for some.
- • Premium-priced, making it a significant investment for most guitarists.
- • The vintage tremolo system requires careful setup and maintenance for optimal performance.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 611659
$5,774
#8
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Fender Roasted '61 Strat ABLK/3TSB
by
Fender
Funk
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
This '61 Strat is a serious contender for vintage tone lovers. The roasted alder body and those Texas Specials deliver a fantastic combination of warmth and bite, while the relic'd finish adds undeniable character. It's a premium-priced instrument best suited for players who appreciate the feel and sound of a true vintage Strat.
PROS
- • Roasted alder body delivers exceptional resonance and warmth.
- • 60s 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for a wide range of players.
- • Texas Special pickups provide articulate cleans and searing overdrive.
- • Super Heavy Relic finish authentically replicates a well-loved vintage instrument.
CONS
- • The heavy relicing may not appeal to those seeking a pristine aesthetic.
- • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many players.
- • While versatile, leans towards classic rock/blues; modern metal isn't its forte.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 621224
$6,379
#9
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Fender 63 Strat Relic GYW HSS
by
Fender
Indie
Blues
Funk
Key Feature:
This is a seriously cool Strat, man. The relic’d look is spot-on, the neck profile is a dream, and the HSS setup gives you a lot of tonal options, especially if you like a bit more bite. It's perfect for players wanting a vintage vibe with modern versatility and a touch of edge.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers a balanced, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • The '60s oval 'C' neck is incredibly comfortable and fast-playing.
- • EVH Wolfgang humbucker adds serious power and versatility to the bridge position.
- • Relic finish enhances vintage aesthetics and a broken-in feel.
CONS
- • The relic'd finish, while aesthetically pleasing, can be fragile and require careful handling.
- • HSS configuration limits clean, pure Strat tones; leans toward hotter output.
- • Weight can be a factor for some players due to the alder body and hardware.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 621190
$6,379
#10
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Fender Hybrid II RAW ASH Strat BLK
by
Fender
Rock
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
The Hybrid II RAW ASH is a seriously good-looking and playing Strat. The ash body gives it a real clarity and bite that's fantastic for clean tones and bluesy leads. It’s a solid choice for players wanting that classic Strat vibe with modern neck comfort – perfect for gigging musicians or serious hobbyists.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Modern 'C' neck profile offers comfortable playability for diverse hand sizes.
- • USA Vintage Strat pickups provide authentic, articulate classic Strat tones.
- • 4-ply tortoise shell pickguard adds a touch of vintage aesthetic appeal.
CONS
- • Ash body can make the guitar noticeably heavier than alder alternatives.
- • Rosewood fretboard might not appeal to players preferring maple's brighter feel.
- • Limited tonal flexibility compared to guitars with humbucker options.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620113
$1,759
#11
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Fender 55 Strat MN White Blonde CC
by
Fender
Country
Indie
Blues
Key Feature:
This 55 Strat is a seriously well-made instrument. The ash body and '54 pickups nail that classic Strat tone—bright, articulate, and surprisingly versatile. It's perfect for players chasing that vintage vibe with a modern neck profile and reliable hardware.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers bright, resonant tone with excellent sustain.
- • Vintage '54 Strat pickups offer authentic, bell-like clarity and warmth.
- • Modern 'V' neck profile provides comfort and a familiar feel for many players.
- • Closet Classic finish enhances vintage aesthetic and subtly aged appearance.
CONS
- • Ash bodies can be somewhat prone to finish checking with age and humidity.
- • The Modern 'V' neck won't appeal to players preferring a completely modern or slim profile.
- • Premium-priced, limiting accessibility for budget-conscious players.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620329
$4,888
#12
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Fender 55 Strat MN Sunburst CC
by
Fender
Pop
Rock
Country
Key Feature:
This Fender 55 Strat is a serious contender for players chasing a vintage vibe, but with modern playability. The ash body provides a punchy, focused tone, and those '54 pickups nail that classic Strat sound. It's a premium-priced instrument ideal for blues, rock, and anyone wanting a refined, responsive feel.
PROS
- • Ash body delivers focused, articulate tone with surprising resonance.
- • Modern 'V' neck is comfortable and surprisingly versatile for various hand sizes.
- • ’54 Strat pickups offer authentic vintage chime with strong output.
- • Closet Classic finish enhances resonance and provides a beautifully aged aesthetic.
CONS
- • Ash body can make it slightly heavier than alder alternatives.
- • The 'Modern V' neck profile might not appeal to players preferring a more traditional shape.
- • Limited pickup switching options compared to some modern Strat variations.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 620330
$4,888
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Fender 63 Strat RW 3TSb CC HSS
by
Fender
Funk
Indie
Pop
Key Feature:
This 63 Strat is a seriously refined instrument. The combination of the alder body, comfortable neck, and those killer Seymour Duncan pickups gives it a versatile voice, leaning towards a more modern rock vibe while retaining a vintage character. It's a great choice for players seeking a high-end Strat with a bit more bite.
PROS
- • Alder body delivers focused resonance and sustain.
- • 60s 'C' neck profile offers exceptional comfort and playability.
- • Seymour Duncan humbucker provides high-output, searing tones.
- • Closet Classic finish replicates aged aesthetics and enhances resonance.
CONS
- • HSS configuration might limit appeal for pure vintage Strat tones.
- • Premium-priced, putting it out of reach for many players.
- • Alder body can make it feel somewhat heavy, especially with the tremolo.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 620318
$5,939
#14
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Fender 59 Strat 2TSB JM Relic
by
Fender
Indie
Rock
Pop
Key Feature:
This is a seriously dialed-in Strat. The '59 D neck and those hand-wound pickups nail that classic, glassy tone. If you're chasing that vintage vibe and appreciate a well-worn feel, this Custom Shop relic is a premium-priced dream come true.
PROS
- • Hand-wound '50s pickups deliver authentic, bell-like Strat tone.
- • Relic'd finish replicates the feel of a well-loved vintage instrument.
- • Comfortable '59 D neck profile enhances playability and speed.
- • American Vintage tremolo provides smooth, vintage-correct vibrato action.
CONS
- • Relic'd finish may not appeal to players preferring a pristine look.
- • Alder body, while resonant, can make it a bit heavier than some alternatives.
- • Limited pickup versatility restricts suitability for modern, high-gain genres.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 611670
$5,554
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Fender 56 Strat FRD NOS
by
Fender
Funk
Rock
Indie
Key Feature:
This is a seriously dialed-in Strat – the kind of instrument you dream about. The NOS nitro finish and vintage-correct hardware create an incredible feel and tone, perfect for players seeking that classic, shimmering Strat sound. It's a high-end instrument best suited for discerning players who appreciate the finer details and are chasing a specific vintage vibe.
PROS
- • NOS nitro finish allows exceptional resonance and aging character.
- • ’50s hand-wound pickups deliver authentic, bell-like Strat tone.
- • ’56 ‘V’ neck profile offers comfortable, familiar vintage feel.
- • American Vintage tremolo provides smooth, vintage-correct vibrato action.
CONS
- • NOS finish is delicate; requires careful handling and maintenance.
- • ’56 ‘V’ neck profile isn’t for everyone; can feel sharp to some.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most players.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 611648
$4,894
How to Choose the Best ST Style Guitars
1
Heritage & Design
The ST's lineage is undeniable. It’s the blueprint for modern rock and blues tones, and that influence is baked into the design – the double cutaway, the bolt-on neck, the headstock shape. It’s not just aesthetics; it’s a specific feel and a specific way the guitar vibrates.
2
Pickup Voicing
This is HUGE. The early STs had that Alnico magnet magic – a warm, complex tone with plenty of chime but also a real growl when you crank the amp. Later models often sacrificed that character for more output, resulting in a thinner, harsher tone. Knowing what pickups are in a guitar is crucial.
3
Neck Profile
The feel of the neck is incredibly personal. From the chunky '60s C to the slim '70s U, the neck profile dramatically impacts playability and comfort. A neck that's too thick will slow you down, while one that’s too thin can feel lifeless.
4
Build Quality & Hardware
Let’s be real, budget models cut corners. The tuners might be flimsy, the frets might be poorly dressed, and the finish might chip easily. Higher-end models boast better wood selection, tighter tolerances, and hardware that’ll last through years of abuse – a worthwhile investment if you plan on gigging regularly.
5
Resonance & Sustain
The ST’s body design and wood choices contribute to its sustain and resonance. Alder is the classic choice for a balanced tone, while ash tends to be brighter and more resonant. A well-built ST will sing, especially when plugged into a good amp.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the vintage mojo unless your budget allows. Mexican-made guitars offer incredible value, but expect some compromises – often in the pickups and hardware. American-made models are a step up, but the price jumps significantly. Ultimately, play before you buy; even within the same model line, guitars can vary wildly.
Our Methodology
We're not just looking at spec sheets here. We’ve spent countless hours playing these guitars, A/B’ing them against each other and other brands, and putting them through the ringer: band rehearsals, tracking sessions, and late-night blues jams. It’s about how they *feel* in your hands and, more importantly, how they *sound* in real-world scenarios – that’s what we care about.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. They’re a fantastic value, especially if you’re willing to swap out the pickups for something more to your taste. The body and neck are generally solid, and with a few upgrades, they can easily hold their own.
American Standard are generally considered the ‘classic’ workhorse, while the American Professional models incorporate modern refinements like rolled fingerboards and more sculpted neck heels for improved access to the higher frets. Tone-wise, they’re close, but the Pro models often have a slightly more polished feel.
It matters. A flatter radius (like 9.5”) is often preferred for bending strings without fretting out, while a rounder radius (7.25”) can feel more vintage and comfortable for some players. Try both before you commit.
Minimal impact, honestly. A thicker finish *might* slightly dampen resonance, but it’s not a game-changer. More importantly, consider how durable the finish is – nitrocellulose finishes are beautiful but more prone to checking and cracking.
They’re a luxury. You’re paying for the aesthetics and a closer approximation of vintage specs, but modern manufacturing techniques often make them play better than their vintage counterparts. If the budget allows and the vibe is right, go for it, but don't expect a magical tone boost.
