The 10 Best Electric Guitar Starter Packs For Beginners (2023)
Electric guitar starter packs are the easiest way to start playing an electric guitar. You get everything you need in a single batch, and what’s also important, you get all that without spending a lot of money. With so many factors to consider, like body shape, tonewood, and pickups, the process often feels overwhelming, so we’ve put together a list of some of the best.
My main recommended electric guitar bundle for beginner musicians is the Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT – Sunburst Bundle, which includes a Frontman 10G amplifier, gig bag, guitar cable, tuner, strap, picks, and an instructional DVD. It offers great value for money as it includes all the necessary accessories, making it easy for beginners to start playing right away.
As a second option, I would recommend the Pyle Beginner Electric Guitar Kit, which includes an amp, amplifier & accessories. It also includes an amplifier and accessories, making it a great option for beginners. The humbucker pickups offer a unique sound that many guitarists prefer. However, it may not be as high-quality as the Fender bundle.
I remember when I first started playing electric guitar, I used a starter pack that included everything I needed to get started – a guitar, amplifier, and cables. It was very helpful having everything in one package. I spent countless hours practicing and experimenting with different tones. The guitar was easy to play, and the sound quality was surprisingly good for a beginner pack. As I improved, I eventually upgraded to better equipment, but I will always remember that starter pack as the foundation of my musical journey.
Contents
- The Best Electric Guitar Starter Packs For Beginners (2023) – At a Glance
- 1. Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT
- 2. Pyle Electric Guitar Kit
- 3. Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack
- 4. LyxPro Electric Guitar Bundle
- 5. Epiphone Slash Les Paul Pack
- 6. Fender Squier Strat Pack
- 7. Donner DST-100S Electric Guitar Kit
- 8. Fender Squier Affinity Strat Bundle
- 9. Yamaha GigMaker EG Pack - Metallic Blue
- 10. RockJam RJEG02 Electric Guitar Kit Sunburst
- What is an Electric Guitar Starter Pack?
- Buyer’s Guide
- FAQs
- Verdict
The Best Electric Guitar Starter Packs For Beginners (2023) – At a Glance
Now let’s look at the full list:
1. Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT
The lightweight and slim design of this Stratocaster makes it perfect for beginners and long-playing sessions. The “C”-shaped maple neck and ergonomic design enable easy exploration of different playing techniques, suitable for all skill levels and music genres.
A beautiful feature of this guitar is the Indian laurel fingerboard, offering both style and performance. It ensures smooth playability while looking great. Combined with the brown sunburst finish and classic body shape, this Strat pays tribute to its iconic history with a unique look.
Music lovers will enjoy the variety provided by the three single-coil pickups and five-way selector. You can easily switch between or mix different tones for various music styles like classic blues or modern rock. This system expands the range of tones available, so players can express their creativity freely.
I appreciated the excellent set-up for beginners and the good-quality accessories and sound for the price. Even though you would need a better quality guitar if you decide to move on to more experienced levels of playing, Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT Bundle is perfect to start your journey with its great free lessons.
Pros
- Great beginner-friendly bundle
- Easy-to-play and lightweight guitar
- Good sound quality for the price
- Comes with all necessary accessories
- Three single-coil pickups for sonic variety
- Free online lessons from Fender
Cons
- Amplifier quality could be better
- Strings may not be of the best quality, but you can replace them when necessary
Specs
- Body Material: Poplar
- Neck Material: Maple
- Fretboard Material: Laurel Wood
- Guitar Pickup Configuration: S-S-S (three single-coil pickups)
- Color: Brown Sunburst, Transparent Blue, Transparent Red, Sunburst, Black, Dakota Red, Olympic White
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Hard Tail
- Size: Bullet Strat
2. Pyle Electric Guitar Kit
The double humbucker design in Pyle Electric Guitar Kit creates a smooth and powerful sound so that the guitarists can choose different pickup options to find their unique sound. With its impressive value-for-price ratio, this well-made instrument is great for both beginners and experienced players.
This electric guitar pack comes with a practice amp, offering adjustments for gain, tone, and master. The guitar also has a tremolo system for vibrato effects. Its 1/4″ input makes it easy to connect to amps and audio systems, so it’s ideal for practicing, performing, and recording.
I appreciate this as it’s a great affordable electric guitar starter kit that’s perfect for beginners. In addition to decent sound quality and playability, the kit offers four color options: black, red, green, and blue. Made with durable materials like a Paulownia wood body, Canadian maple neck, and synthetic wood fretboard, this full-size kit is a stylish and functional choice for any guitarist.
While for the price, the bundle is hard to beat, the synthetic fretboard and minor issues with the quality control are the down parts. Keep this in mind when considering whether to buy this kit.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Great starter guitar for beginners
- Good quality craftsmanship and materials
- Solid and comfortable construction
- Comes with a complete kit, including a practice amp
- Double humbucker pickups for better sound quality
- Impressive aesthetics
Cons
- Amp’s sound quality could be improved
- Minor issues with accessories like loose tuner nuts, low-quality strap
- Synthetic wood fretboard
Specs
- Body Material: Solid Paulownia wood with Decal Paper Veneered on the top
- Neck Material: Canadian maple
- Fretboard Material: High-density man-made wood
- Pickup Configuration: Dual Humbucker
- Scale Length: 25.5 inches
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo
- Included Accessories: Amplifier, ¼” cable, tremolo rod, gig bag, guitar strings, shoulder strap, digital tuner, picks
3. Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack
The Les Paul Special-II LE electric guitar is the star of the Player Pack, featuring an authentic vintage sunburst finish and mahogany construction that makes you feel like a rock star. Its 24.75-inch scale length and comfortable maple neck make this guitar ideal for learning rhythm and lead skills in any music style. It’s perfect for beginners.
Equipped with dual traditional humbucker pickups and a Stop Tail bridge system, this electric guitar produces a full, balanced sound ideal for practice, impromptu performances, or even recording for devoted artists. Plus, up-and-coming musicians will enjoy the included Electar 10-watt guitar amp, which is powerful yet compact.
In addition to the beautiful Les Paul Special-II LE guitar, the Player Pack provides essential accessories. You get a clip-on chromatic tuner, a convenient gig bag, and even free eMedia guitar lessons for download. With medium gauge picks and a durable guitar strap also included, you’ll have everything necessary for a great start on your musical path.
While it’s a shame that some of the included accessories are not the best quality, they feature great value for the price and are enough to get you started.
Pros
- Classic Les Paul design and sound
- Comes with everything needed to start playing
- Good quality guitar for its price range
- Good weight and feel
- Comes with free downloadable lessons
Cons
- Amp quality could be better
- Strings and tuners may need upgrading
- Gig bag quality is not the best
Specs
- Body Material: Mahogany and Wood
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- Guitar Pickup Configuration: HH (Humbucker)
- Scale Length: 24.75 inches
- Neck Material Type: Maple
- Number of Strings: 6
4. LyxPro Electric Guitar Bundle
The quality of this handcrafted guitar makes it stand out, as it’s made from special woods that enhance its look and sound. It has a solid Canadian maple neck and a rosewood fretboard, making it easy to play and suitable for both new and experienced musicians.
I appreciate that this electric guitar is beginner-friendly and reasonably priced. Its triple single-coil pickup setup offers various sound options for different styles of playing. If you like bright or warm tones, this guitar’s flexible configuration can help you reach your full potential.
The 20W amplifier that comes with the guitar has many useful features, like controls for gain, bass, treble, volume, and grind, which can help musicians be more creative and versatile. It’s suitable for practicing, rehearsing, and small performances, allowing players to grow their skills.
Unfortunately, the guitar has low-quality strings, which might affect its performance. Additionally, some issues with the amp might impact the overall experience. However, these are minor issues, and for the price, it is a great guitar bundle to start with.
Pros
- Great for beginners and intermediate players
- Affordable price
- Comes with 20W amplifier and cable
- Includes a digital tuner and other accessories
- High-quality materials used (rosewood fingerboard, Canadian maple neck)
Cons
- Amp may have a constant buzzing sound
- Some missing or low-quality items (picks, strap, strings)
Specs
- Body Material: Wood
- Color: Blue, Black, Green, Mahogany, Natural, Pink, Purple, Red, Sunburst, White, Retro Blue, Retro Yellow
- Fretboard Material: Maple Wood
- Guitar Pickup Configuration: S-S-S (3 Single Coil Pickups)
- String Material: Nickel Steel
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo
- Output Wattage: 20 Watts
5. Epiphone Slash Les Paul Pack
The Slash Appetite Les Paul Special-II Performance Pack has everything a beginner or pro would need – Slash-designed electric guitar, a custom gig bag, a 15-watt amp, picks, guitar strap and cord, and free online lessons.
With this guitar, Epiphone introduces the unique Ceramic Plus Humbuckers feature, which I discovered offers a rich and smooth tone with its H-H pickup arrangement. The guitar’s sound is perfect for those who want the Slash tones to rock like him.
You can show your rock spirit with the eye-catching Appetite Amber finish and Cherry Mahogany back, highlighted by a AAA Flame Maple top. I am confident that this Les Paul Special-II model not only looks great but also performs like a rock and roll powerhouse. A Pau Ferro wood fretboard enhances playability and sound quality, creating Slash’s iconic tone.
Slash himself endorses the included 15-watt “Snakepit” amp, which boasts an 8″ speaker, Clean and Overdrive channels, a 3-band EQ section, and an Aux as well as a headphone jack. This amp provides extensive tone-shaping options for both experienced musicians and beginners.
However, I did experience some issues with the amp cutting off, which was disappointing. The high-quality gig bag featuring the Snake Pit Logo, along with Slash’s signature Dunlop Tortex picks, completes the ultimate Slash experience.
Pros
- High-quality guitar and accessories
- Ceramic plus Humbucking pickups
- AAA Flame Maple top and Cherry Mahogany back
- Built-in Shadow Pickup ring E-Tuner
- Comes with gig bag, picks, straps, and cord along with free online lessons
- Slash Snakepit-15 Amp included
Cons
- Neck may be thicker than desired for some
- Some customers received defective amps
Specs
- Body Material: Okoume
- Fretboard Material: Pau Ferro Wood
- Guitar Pickup Configuration: H-H
- Scale Length: 24.75
- Bridge System: Tune-O-Matic
- Wattage: 15 watts
6. Fender Squier Strat Pack
This 24″ short-scale Stratocaster guitar is great for people with small hands and younger players. It’s easy to play, lightweight, and has good tuning stability due to its hardtail bridge. It’s perfect for new players, with a smooth neck that encourages practice and learning.
The guitar lets you enjoy the classic Strat sound with its three single-coil pickups, maple neck with a satin finish, rosewood fingerboard, and 20 medium jumbo frets. Plus, its “C”-shaped neck profile makes it easy and comfortable to play. The 9.5″ fingerboard radius is perfect for small hands, making it easy to play and practice techniques like bends and vibratos.
The bundle includes useful extras like a clip-on tuner, strap, picks, an instructional DVD, and a Squier Frontman 10G amp for practice and jamming. Plus, the amp has an aux input and headphone jack for quiet practice and playing with tracks, helping any new musician grow and improve.
While some parts, like the strings, amp, and tuner, seem to be lower quality, they are pretty decent for the price and more than enough to start your guitar journey.
Pros
- Great for beginners or smaller hands
- Lightweight and comfortable to play
- Includes necessary accessories like a tuner, strap, and picks
- Attractive iconic Stratocaster design
Cons
- May require adjustments or better strings for optimal play
- Amp may have static background noise
- Included cord may bend and cause issues
- May feel cheaply put together
Specs
- Material: Poplar body and Maple neck
- Fretboard: Rosewood
- Pickup Configuration: S-S-S (three single-coil pickups)
- Scale Length: 24 inches (short scale)
- Bridge System: Hard Tail
- Accessories: Clip-on tuner, strap, picks, and instructional DVD
7. Donner DST-100S Electric Guitar Kit
The Donner DST-100S offers a wide range of tones with its H-S-S pickup arrangement, making it easy to experiment with various music styles. Each pickup has a unique sound, allowing players to combine the humbucker and single-coil pickups to create their own distinct tones. With its affordable price tag and good-quality craftsmanship and accessories, it features great value.
In terms of playability, the DST-100S is enjoyable to use. The guitar features a Canadian maple neck with a classic “C” shape, providing a comfortable grip for different hand sizes. The smooth Purpleheart fretboard adds to the pleasant playing experience.
For beginners, the DST-100S electric guitar kit includes more than just the instrument. The starter pack comes with a highly portable amp, gig bag, capo, strap, extra strings, digital tuner, and more, allowing new musicians to begin playing immediately. Additionally, free online lessons help beginners start their musical journey on the right foot.
However, it’s unfortunate that the kit includes a small, low-quality amp. But, on the bright side, the portable amp allows you to practice and play anywhere you like.
Pros
- Affordable and great value for beginners
- H-S-S pickup configuration offers versatility
- Solid-body and Canadian maple neck
- All-in-one package with accessories, amp, and free online lessons
- Portable, rechargeable 3W mini amp
Cons
- Some users reported low-quality strings
- Tiny and not very powerful amp included
- May require additional setup for optimal playability
- Tuning stability concerns when using the tremolo bar
Specs
- Body Material: Poplar Wood
- Color: Sunburst, Lake Blue, Black, Red, Yellow, Sapphire Blue
- Fretboard Material: Purpleheart
- Pickup Configuration: H-S-S
- Neck Material: Maple
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Single Swing Bridge
- Size: 39″ Right Handed
8. Fender Squier Affinity Strat Bundle
This Fender Squier Affinity Strat Bundle is a great beginner guitar kit as it comes with one of the top-quality Squier Stratocasters. The guitar has a lightweight poplar body and HSS pickup setup for comfortable playing as well as sonic versatility. It’s a perfect starter kit for those new to electric guitars, while also it is a good choice for intermediate players.
The poplar provides a rich, balanced sound, good for different music styles and playing techniques. The guitar has a “C”-shaped maple neck, designed for different hand sizes and playing methods. This makes playing smoother and more enjoyable, letting musicians be creative without limits.
The bundle includes a double-point tremolo bridge for excellent tremolo movement and expressive playing. I love how it allows for creative pitch manipulation, making it suited for many types of music. Furthermore, the bundle features Frontman 10G Amplifier, Fender Gig Bag, Instrument Cable, Tuner, Strap, Picks, and Austin Bazaar Instructional DVD, which can get you started immediately.
While there is not much to say against this bundle, it costs slightly more than the other beginner kits. However, if you want to start your journey as a guitarist with a good-quality guitar to use for years to come, this is the ideal choice.
Pros
- Great beginner package
- Thin, lightweight poplar body
- Comfortable “C”-shaped maple neck
- 2-point tremolo bridge for superior action
- Variety of pickup configurations for versatile sound
- Bundle includes numerous useful accessories
Cons
- Costs slightly higher than other options
Specs
- Body Material: Poplar Wood
- Color: Lake Placid Blue, Surf Green
- Fretboard Material: Maple
- Pickup Configuration: H-S-S
- Neck Material: Maple
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo
9. Yamaha GigMaker EG Pack - Metallic Blue
This beginner-friendly starter pack that comes with a 15-watt Yamaha guitar amplifier allows you to enjoy your first steps as a guitarist with its reliability, versatility, and comfort. Designed for new players, this pack is easy to use and versatile for different music styles and techniques. It’s perfect for those who want to explore various guitar tones and sounds at an affordable price.
The standout PAC012 Pacifica electric guitar has a body made from nato wood, a strong maple neck, and a high-quality rosewood fretboard. The guitar comes in colors, and its design adds style and sophistication. Yamaha’s reputation for quality and dependability makes this an excellent choice for beginner guitarists.
This Yamaha GigMaker electric guitar set offers a range of sound options through its magnetic pickup blend, helping you find your unique musical style. The guitar bridge’s tremolo system adds expressiveness during performances, highlighting the set’s versatility and performance quality. Since its introduction in 1990, this series has been one of the most popular beginner guitars, showing its value as a top choice in solid-body electric guitars.
However, I was disappointed by the not-so-great-quality accessories, especially the guitar cable. Despite this issue, the overall package is still an excellent starting point for those wanting to learn and grow in their musical journey.
Pros
- Good value for money, especially for beginners
- High-quality Yamaha Pacifica guitar
- Package includes most essentials to start playing
- Suitable for various genres and play styles
- Beautiful design and colors
Cons
- Some customers experienced issues with the included amp
- Guitar cable, strap, and some accessories are cheaply made
- Amp is small and lacks effects
Specs
- Color: Metallic Blue, Black, Metallic Red, Old Violin Suburst
- Body Material: Nato
- Fretboard Material: Rosewood
- Neck Material: Maple
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo
10. RockJam RJEG02 Electric Guitar Kit Sunburst
This full-sized electric guitar caters to every musician’s needs, featuring an ergonomic ST design for ultimate comfort during long play sessions. Made from high-quality basswood, its lightweight design allows for easy rocking on stage or jamming with friends.
The eye-catching, high-gloss Sunburst finish makes this electric guitar a true showstopper. It offers a versatile sound with three single-coil pickups, a pickup selector, dual-tone controls, and volume control. The whammy bar adds extra expression and techniques to your performance.
I found it convenient that the guitar kit comes with everything needed, such as a 10-watt amplifier, a protective bag, a strap, extra strings, picks, and a holder. You’ll be equipped for private practice, easy transportation, and starting your musical journey with confidence and style without breaking the bank.
Unfortunately, the amp’s quality is not the best, which may affect your practice or performance experience. But for the price, the comfort of the instrument and the quality of the amp and accessories are hard-to-beat.
Pros
- Great value for the price
- Full-size electric guitar with basswood body
- Comes with 10-watt amp, bag, strap, and accessories
- Guitar holds tuning well
- Reasonable sonic performance
Cons
- Amp not the best quality, may need upgrading
- Guitar may require minor adjustments (truss rod, bridge, action)
- Cable and pick quality could be better
Specs
- Body Material: Basswood
- Color: Sunburst, Blue Burst
- Number of Strings: 6
- Guitar Bridge System: Tremolo
- Weight: 7.72 pounds
- Amplifier: 10-watt
- Electric Guitar Kit Inclusions: Guitar, amplifier, bag, strap, spare strings, and plectrums
- Design: Ergonomic ST with a high-gloss finish and metal gearheads for accurate tuning
What is an Electric Guitar Starter Pack?
An electric guitar starter pack for beginners is a bundle that includes an electric guitar, an amplifier, a cable, picks, and possibly a strap and a gig bag. It is designed to provide novice guitar players with all the necessary equipment to get started playing the electric guitar.
Buyer’s Guide
Types of Electric Guitar Starter Packs
Electric guitar starter packs come in a variety of types, offering different features depending on the intended audience and budget. Here’s an overview of the main types of electric guitar starter packs available:
1. Standard starter packs: These kits typically include an entry-level electric guitar, a small practice amplifier, an instrument cable, a gig bag, and basic accessories such as picks, a strap, and an electronic tuner. Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT Sunburst Bundle and Pyle Beginner Electric Guitar Kit are both good examples of standard starter packs.
2. Premium starter packs: Aimed at guitarists with a higher budget and preference for quality, these packs often include a higher-quality guitar and amplifier, along with additional accessories or instructional materials. The Epiphone Les Paul Electric Guitar Player Pack and Fender Squier Affinity Strat Bundle can be examples of premium starter packs.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Starter Pack
When purchasing an electric guitar starter pack, there are several factors to consider:
– Price: Determine your budget and select a starter pack that fits within your price range without compromising on quality.
– Quality: Look for packs that include well-constructed guitars made from durable materials, such as the Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS.
– Accessories: Make sure the starter pack includes all the necessary accessories for a beginner, such as an amplifier, strap, picks, and tuner.
When considering the quality of an electric guitar in a starter pack, it’s essential to pay attention to key components such as the body material, neck, pickups, and bridge system. A well-crafted guitar such as the Fender Squier Affinity Stratocaster offers a lightweight poplar body and a comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile, ensuring durability alongside playability.
The pickup configuration and the pickup selector are important for tonal versatility, as they allow beginners to explore different genres and styles. Additionally, a reliable bridge system, such as the vintage-inspired 2-point tremolo bridge found in this model, ensures stable tuning and minimal maintenance. So, ensuring the quality of the electric guitar in the bundle is the most important part of the buying process.
Having a quality amplifier that accentuates the guitar’s sound, operates with ease, and provides a range of tones will vastly improve your understanding of your instrument. For example, in the Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT Sunburst Bundle, the included Fender Frontman 10G amplifier features a gain control and overdrive switch, allowing for sonic versatility and enabling you to experiment with different guitar tones.
When starting out on your electric guitar journey, it’s essential to choose a starter pack that not only includes a quality instrument but also comes with the right accessories and learning materials. This will make it easier for you to begin playing and developing your skills.
Accessories Included in Starter Packs
Electric guitar starter packs typically include the following accessories:
– Amp: A small practice amplifier for playing and rehearsing at home.
– Strap: A comfortable strap for holding the guitar while standing.
– Picks: Guitar picks for playing strummed or picked notes.
– Tuner: An electronic tuner for keeping your guitar in tune.
Alternatives to Guitar Starter Packs
One alternative to a guitar starter pack is building a customized setup by purchasing individual guitar components. This approach allows for greater personalization and potentially higher-quality components, although it can be more expensive and time-consuming.
FAQs
What comes in an electric guitar starter pack?
An electric guitar starter pack typically includes a guitar, amplifier, cable, picks, gig bag, strap, and possibly a tuner.
Can a beginner use an electric guitar?
Yes, beginners can start on an electric guitar. Electric guitar necks are thinner and smaller compared to classic and acoustic guitar necks, making electric guitars easier and more comfortable to learn and play.
What is the best size electric guitar for a beginner?
A ¾ size electric guitar is recommended for younger or smaller beginners, while a full-size electric guitar is suitable for most adults. It’s important to have a comfortable fit and not strain to reach the frets.
What brands make good electric guitar starter packs?
Popular guitar brands that offer electric guitar starter packs include Fender Squier, Epiphone, and Ibanez. These packs often provide solid options for beginners at an affordable price point. However, what is more, important than the brand is the craftsmanship and the quality of the guitar and the accessories.
Are Budget Guitar Packs Worth Getting?
While most experienced players would say that these kits are a waste of money, they actually offer great value for the price for beginner players. These packages are very affordable, and if you realize one day that the guitar isn’t the right instrument for you, you won’t regret it too much.
Another strong reason for getting this kit is that you get everything you need to start playing. That makes life easier, especially if you are an absolute beginner who doesn’t know much about electric guitars.
On the other hand, the biggest drawback is the quality. You will get a very limited range of low-quality sounds, and if you are not lucky enough, something could break after just a couple of months.
Verdict
It looks like our beginner guitarists are ready to rock and roll! After reviewing the top electric guitar starter packs, I’ve narrowed down some of the best options for you all.
My main recommended electric guitar starter pack is the Fender Squier Bullet Stratocaster HT – Sunburst Bundle. This bundle includes everything you need to get started, plus it’s affordable and versatile.
As for my second recommended product, the Pyle Beginner Electric Guitar Kit, which is a solid choice for those looking for a sleek, full-sized electric guitar. It comes with all the necessary accessories and is great for beginners.
All in all, no matter which option you choose, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a rockstar. Keep on jamming, my friends!
