9 Best Electric Guitar Makers of All Time

Today’s guitarists are spoiled for choice when it comes to electric guitars. There are just so many models to choose from and we all have our favorites.

If you’re on the hunt for your next axe and are wondering which brand and model to go for, you’ve come to the right place. Here I’ve listed the top electric guitar makers in the world, known for their quality products that not only sound good but are also comfortable to play with the looks to match. Let’s get started!

Fender

One of the most popular guitar brands on the planet, Fender continues to provide musicians with well-built instruments with a classic tone. Telecasters, Stratocasters, Mustangs and Jaguars count among the company’s best-selling electric guitars.

Gibson

Fender’s biggest rival, Gibson is also known for producing guitars with a solid tone. Some of the best Gibson guitars of all time include the Les Paul, Flying V, Firebird, Explorer, ES-335 and SG. The company has been going through tough times and I’m hoping it will be on the rise again.

Squier

The Squier brand is under Fender and it’s where you can find Fender models at a more budget-friendly price. I recommend checking out the Vintage Modified and Classic Vibe series when you’re out looking for your next axe.

Epiphone

Before it was acquired by Gibson, Epiphone used to be one of Gibson’s toughest competitors. Now, Gibson has Epiphone to offer players a more affordable lineup of its iconic electric guitar models – just like how Fender has Squier. These include the Epiphone Les Paul 100 and Epiphone Les Paul Studio, both of which are considered to be two of the best electric guitars under $300 by Know Your Instrument.

PRS

Founded by famous luthier Paul Reed Smith, PRS is known for making top-quality guitars with exceptional sound and build quality and attention to detail. PRS also has the SE range for players who want the same PRS quality at a more accessible price point. Some of the best models in the SE lineup are the SE 245, SE 277 and SE Custom 24. 

Ibanez

Ibanez makes awesome electric guitars for every genre and music style, but a majority of those find home in the rock and metal genre with their fast-playing Wizard necks. Among the company’s best models are the RG series of solid body electrics, one of which is the pocket-friendly Ibanez RG421.

Jackson

If you’ve fallen hard for hard rock or are heavily into heavy metal, you won’t go wrong with a Jackson guitar. Jackson models such as the Dinky, Soloist, Rhoads, Kelly and King V are some of its top models. In addition, the company offers signature models by top players such as Def Leppard’s Phil Collen, Megadeth’s David Ellefson (bass) and Gojira’s Christian Andreu.

ESP

Known for its pro-level custom-shop guitars, ESP has become a popular brand trusted by musicians like James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett, who have their own ESP signature models. The company’s LTD brand is where you can get ESP electric guitars at a more affordable price.

Schecter

Similar to Jackson and other guitars, Schecter is another brand favored by heavy metal players. Its guitars not only have the looks that could kill but also the quality sound and premium appointments you usually find in more expensive models. Check out the Omen-6 and the Hellraiser models if heavy music is your thing.

Other top electric guitar brands include Yamaha (which makes a host of other musical instruments), B.C. Rich, Washburn, Rickenbacker and Dean. What’s your favorite electric guitar brand and model and what are you planning on getting next?

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