7 Electric Guitars for the Beginner

If you're in the market to purchase your first electric guitar, there are a lot of options out there.

And for the beginning guitarist, sorting through those options–pickups, body shape, electronics, tone ... the mind boggles–can be a daunting task.

So where to turn for help? To help with your decision, here is a list of seven electric guitars that are great for those just starting their playing journey.

1. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster

The Affinity Series Stratocaster combines the classic features that made the Stratocaster a rock favorite: sonic flexibility, authentic Fender sound, vintage style and eye-catching finishes.

2. Squier Vintage Modified Mustang

The first-ever Squier Mustang model, the Vintage Modified version is ideal for beginning players or those with smaller hands. A distinctive 24-inch scale, dual pickup switches and floating bridge with dynamic vibrato tailpiece make this a classic. In addition, the Vintage Modified Mustang features full-sounding Duncan Designed pickups.

3. Squier Deluxe Stratocaster

A true class act, the Deluxe Stratocaster offers a smooth, satin-finished maple neck and classic single-coil tone from three Duncan Designed pickups. Other cool features include a parchment pickguard and aged plastic parts for a touch of vintage style.

4. Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster '50s

In the early years of Fender, the Telecaster quickly became an everyman’s guitar because of its versatile sound, ease of playing and reasonable cost. The Classic Vibe Telecaster ’50s in Butterscotch Blonde delivers on that original promise. Setting this guitar apart from its Classic Vibe Telecaster ’50s Vintage Blonde brother is a custom set of alnico 5 single-coil pickups that provide warmth and clarity and enough punch for country, blues, rock and jazz.

5. Squier Affinity Series Jazzmaster HH

Perfect for aggressive musical styles that require a pair of fat-sounding humbucking pickups, the Affinity Series Jazzmaster HH combines slick offset style with easy playability and classic Fender tone. A comfortable "C"-shaped neck and roaring pickups, this Jazzmaster can really rage.

6. Squier Affinity Series Telecaster

The Squier Affinity Series Telecaster is a solid Squier player with traditional aesthetic style and classic features. Easy to play with versatile sound, this Tele also comes in several eye-catching finishes.

7. Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS

The Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS delivers solid sound and style with single-coil and humbucking pickups, a two-color headstock logo, a dazzling single-ply "platinum sparkle" pickguard and several really cool finishes.