Last Updated on September 21, 2023 by Teemu Suomala
Author: Tyler Connaghan
Editor: Edward Bond
Best Overall Squier Guitar – Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster
Summary
Pros:
–The guitar captures the essence of old-school Fender Strats beautifully.
–I love the fact that Fender took it back to its roots with the pine body, which -has a huge impact on the overall feel & weight.
-Smooth neck and great action right out of the box.
-You get the standard three single-coil pickup design, making it one of the more tonally versatile guitars on this list
Cons:
-The limited range of finishes can be a bummer for those who want something more modern looking
Who is this guitar for?
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster is for players who often find themselves drawn to iconic guitars of the past or who want something tonally versatile on a budget.
How Squier Classic Vibe ’50s Stratocaster sounds:
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Best for Beginners – Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS Pack
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Summary
Pros
- The big selling point is that this pack includes everything you need to get started, including an electric guitar amp, cables, a strap, and picks
- The HSS pickup design offers a relatively wide range of tones compared to your traditional single-coil setup.
- For everything you get in this pack, it’s incredibly affordable.
Cons
- The included guitar amp is not very suitable outside of practicing, and you’ll probably find yourself wanting to look at other guitar amps pretty soon.
- When you get a cheap instrument bundle, you can’t expect the highest quality.
Who is this guitar for?
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS pack is the best Fender electric guitar pack for new players who want to get everything they need to start playing at once
Best for Metal – Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HH FR
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Summary
Pros
- With high-output humbuckers and a locking trem system, it’s one of the best electric guitars in the lineup for metal.
- The SQR Atomic humbuckers are surprisingly clear, even when paired with high-gain amps.
- With the onboard coil-splitting feature, you get more tonal possibilities than you would with a traditional Strat.
Cons
- TThe inherent design leads toward heavy playing, so anyone who wants pristine cleans might not find what they’re looking for.
Who is this guitar for?
This guitar is a killer choice for metalheads and modern rock musicians who want top-notch playability and high-output tones.
Best Semi-Hollowbody – Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster
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Summary
Pros
- Best thing you can get akin to the now-discontinued Classic Vibe strat.
- Perfect for practice when you don’t have an amp.
- The wide-range humbuckers provide a surprising amount of versatility, whether fingerpicking or rhythm playing.
Cons
- Not the most colorful lineup of finish options.
Who is this guitar for?
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster is a great semi-hollow-body guitar for guitarists that appreciate vintage design and want a good rhythm guitar to add to their arsenal.
Best for Lead Playing – Squier Classic Vibe ‘60s Telecaster Thinline
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Summary
Pros
- This Squier captures the essence of vintage appeal like no other Squier in the lineup.
- The F-hole adds to the tonal character by giving the guitar that slight touch of “air.”
- It’s one of the lightest guitars in the Squier lineup too.
- The thinline is super lightweight and has great action out of the box.
Cons
- With single-coil pickups and a semi-hollow design, it’s not the best for heavier tones.
Who is this guitar for?
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘60s Telecaster Thinline is the perfect Squier guitar for blues and rock players who appreciate the vintage charm and tonal characteristic of the iconic vintage Thinline teles.
Compare the Key Specs
About Squier
In the vast, seemingly never-ending world of electric guitars, Squier has steadily carved a path from an underdog brand for newbies to a budget-friendly powerhouse for players of all kinds.
Thanks to their deep ties with Fender, Squier guitars have evolved over the years in terms of quality, and even many seasoned musicians will be quick to tell you that they’re legitimate instruments. Of course, from the iconic Stratocaster to the classic Telecaster, Squier’s has so many models in its catalog that trying to pick the right one can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting your feet wet.
Luckily, you’ve come to the right place, as we know a thing or two about Squier axes. Come with us as we explore the five best Squier guitars that resonate with both aspiring musicians and pros.
5 Best Squier Guitars
Keep These 3 Key Things In Mind When Choosing:
The tonal characteristics of the guitar, which can be impacted by the body shape, wood, hardware, pickups, etc. Consider the style of music you want to play when choosing.
This refers to how comfortable and natural the guitar feels when playing. Think about the neck profile, action, weight, and overall ergonomics.
Lastly, consider the build quality, which is the craftsmanship, construction method, and attention to detail. A more well-built guitar will likely sound better and stand the test of time.
How Did We Choose These Guitars?
There are so many excellent Squier guitars on the market these days that it was no easy task picking the best five.
However, there were a few criteria I made sure to criticize when sifting through the vast landscape of Squier models, including:
- Versatility: I first looked at how tonally versatile each guitar was. I much prefer instruments that can adapt to a wide range of playing styles.
- Quality: As I said before, the craftsmanship of Squier guitars has evolved over the past decade, and quality has now become a key factor in the buying process. I tried to look closely at the materials used and the overall construction quality of each guitar.
- Playability: You want a guitar that feels good in your hands and that gets you excited to play. This is where playability comes in! I looked at the fretwork, action, neck profile, and general feel of each guitar to determine which ones offered the most comfortable playing experience.
Most electric guitars we recommend are run through tests like these:
- We check electronics (Basic measurements with multimeter, resistance, etc.)
- We inspect the guitar carefully to get a good idea of the finish and built quality of the guitar.
- We inspect the fretwork and edges of the fretboard to make sure there are no sharp edges.
- We run the guitar usually through BOSS Katana 50 MK2 and test clean, crunch, and distorted tones with lead and rhythm playing.
- We use different playing styles to get a good feel for the playability. We use fingerpicking, sweep picking, riffs from different genres, shredding, tapping, chord playing, etc.
- We test all the possible pickup combinations and use different Volume and Tone settings from the guitar.
- We measure and weight the guitar.
- We test the guitar with drop tunings.
Learn more about GND’s testing and reviewing processes here.
Best Overall – Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster
Specs
| Body Style | ’50s Stratocaster |
| Body Wood | Nato |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fretboard | 21 narrow tall frets. Maple fingerboard. 9.5″ radius. |
| Nut | Bone |
| Nut Width | 1.69″ (43mm) |
| Pickups | 3 Fender Designed AlNiCo Single-coil |
| Controls | 1 x master volume 2 x tone 5-way blade pickup switch |
| Scale-Length | 25.5″ |
| Bridge | Vintage-style Synchronized Tremolo |
| Tuners | Vintage Style |
Within the Squier lineup, you can find a pretty remarkable array of Stratocasters in different price ranges. Yet, among them, one model stands out with a special allure — the Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat. I’ll have to admit, as a long-time Strat fan, I might be a bit biased, but this thing sounds great. To me, it’s the best Squier electric guitar in the lineup.
This guitar pays somewhat of a contemporary homage to the iconic Fender Stratocaster that laid the foundation, making it an unrivaled choice that captures the essence of where the legend began.
Every time I pick up one of Squier’s Classic Vibe series of guitars, I’m consistently blown away by how far they’ve come from the first Squier I ever owned.
You get exceptional construction, a sleek aesthetic, and an overall tactile experience that’s nothing short of smooth and comfortable.
One of the distinct aspects of this guitar lies in its pine body, which is very reminiscent of Fender’s origins. It gives the guitar a unique character all its own. Combine the pine body with the narrow-tall frets and the dual-color burst finish, and you can see that the design team collectively infused the CV ’50s Strat with an irresistible vintage charm and a timeless sense of style.
In terms of playability, I’ve always found Strats to be really comfortable. The C-shaped neck profile feels great in the hands and the guitar is super lightweight overall, perfect for playing live.
The pickups contribute to the overall tone more than anything else, providing the bright, crispy top-end and wooly mids and lows that you’d expect from a Fender guitar. The level of warmth you can get out of this guitar was probably the most surprising thing.
With its trio of single-coil pickups and five selectable tone positions, this Strat hits the mark dead on in terms of versatility. Whether you’re a budding novice or a dedicated intermediate player, the Classic Vibe Strat can fulfill every role you need it for. Plus, if you play live, it’s bound to turn some heads!
How this guitar sounds:
Summary
Pros
- Vintage Look: The guitar captures the essence of old-school Fender Strats beautifully.
- Pine Body: I love the fact that Fender took it back to its roots with the pine body, which has a huge impact on the tone.
- Unmatched Playability: Smooth neck and great action right out of the box.
- Versatility: You get the standard three single-coil pickup design, making it one of the more tonally versatile guitars on this list
Cons
- Limited Color Range: The limited range of finishes can be a bummer for those who want something more modern looking
What others are saying:
“I originally bought this as a starting point, inexpensive body with the look I wanted and then strip everything out and replace. Plugged it in the day it arrived and I have not changed a thing. It goes from crystal clear to light blues to SRV to Iron Maiden with a few knob tweaks. Sounds a thousand times better than expected.” – Todd, Sweetwater
Who Is This Guitar For?
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Stratocaster is for players who often find themselves drawn to iconic guitars of the past or who want something tonally versatile on a budget.
Who Is This Guitar NOT For?
I wouldn’t recommend the Classic Vibe ‘50s Strat to anyone who want a sleeker and more modern guitar design.
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Best for Beginners – Squier Affinity Series Stratocaster HSS Pack
Specs
| Body Style | Affinity Stratocaster |
| Body Wood | Poplar |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fretboard | 21, Medium Jumbo. Maple fingerboard. 9.5″ radius. |
| Nut | Synthetic Bone |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ |
| Pickups | 2 Ceramic Single-coil 1 Ceramic Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x master volume 2 x tone 5-way blade pickup switch |
| Scale-Length | 25.5″ |
| Bridge | 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo with Individual Block Saddles |
| Tuners | Sealed Die-cast |
If you’re a complete beginner, I recommend getting a Squier electric guitar pack so you have everything you need to get going. This particular one comes with a Fender Frontman 15G guitar amplifier, a soft gig bag, a few picks, a guitar strap, a cable, and a three-month Fender Play subscription for personalized lessons.
I’ll be the first to say that I’m a HUGE fan of the Squier Affinity HSS Stratocaster. Not only is it one of the most visually appealing “budget-friendly” guitars I’ve ever seen, whether you go for the minimalistic Lake Placid Blue model or the Charcoal Frost Metallic, but it also feels incredible in the hands.
This particular model comes with a poplar body and a bolted maple neck, which is pretty standard for Squier guitars. The C-shape profile offers incredible playability, which is great for those who are getting their first set of calluses.
The first time I played this model, I was pleasantly surprised by the modern vintage-style synchronized tremolo system and the fact that it was constructed with new-age American-style block saddles, which feel sturdy.
Moving away from your standard Stratocaster design, the Squier Affinity Stratocaster also implements a humbucker rather than a single coil bridge pickup, though it maintains the traditional single coil layout in the middle and neck pickups.
So how does this guitar that’s great for beginners perform?
Well, one of the main reasons I recommend it for beginners is that its light poplar body and out-of-the-box action make it super comfortable to play. As we all know, fatigue can be the biggest enemy when starting out.
In terms of sound, you get all-ceramic pickups, so expect scorching tones, especially if you enjoy playing with lots of overdrive. While it may not be the best-sounding Squier guitar, the Affinity HSS, especially with this pack, is the best Squier guitar for the money.
How this guitar sounds:
Summary
Pros
- All-In-One Package – Of course, the big selling point is that this pack includes everything you need to get started, including an electric guitar amp, cables, a strap, and picks
- Versatility – The HSS pickup design offers a relatively wide range of tones compared to your traditional single-coil setup.
- Affordable – For everything you get in this pack, it’s incredibly affordable.
Cons
- Amp – The included guitar amp is not very suitable outside of practicing, and you’ll probably find yourself wanting to look at other guitar amps pretty soon.
- Quality – When you get a cheap instrument bundle, you can’t expect the highest quality.
What others are saying:
“Amazing Guitar Set especially for someone like me, who barely knew what to buy, I’m very new to Guitar and was tryina see what to buy as it is my first time, and this came up while I was searching, it has a fair price for the quality of the goods contained within the set, amazing. 5/5” – Calvin, Sweetwater
Who Is This Guitar For?
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS pack is the best Fender electric guitar pack for new players who want to get everything they need to start playing at once
Who Is This Guitar NOT For?
I wouldn’t recommend this pack to someone who already has an amp or other accessories.
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Best for Metal – Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HH FR
Specs
| Body Style | Comtemporary Stratocaster |
| Body Wood | Poplar |
| Neck | Bolt-on roasted maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fretboard | 22, Jumbo. Roasted maple fingerboard. 12″ radius. |
| Nut | Floyd Rose Locking |
| Nut Width | 1.6875″ |
| Pickups | 2 Squier SQR Atomic Humbucker |
| Controls | 1 x master volume 1 x master tone 5-way blade pickup switch |
| Scale-Length | 25.5″ |
| Bridge | Floyd Rose Double Locking Tremolo |
| Tuners | Die-cast Sealed |
When you think of metal guitars, you probably think of guitars from Ibanez or Schecter. Most Stratocaster and Telecaster models have established themselves in pop, rock, country, and indie genres, as low-output single coils and high-gain amps/pedals aren’t typically a great fit.
However, with the advent of Squier’s contemporary series, the developers have addressed the needs of burgeoning metalheads everywhere.
Introducing the Squier Contemporary Stratocaster HH FR. While it might look like a souped-up Strat, it boasts a range of unique features that make it perfect for heavy-handed playing. For starters, you get a pair of Squier SQR Atomic humbuckers, which have been specifically tailored for high-output, solo-friendly performance. Next, you get a 12” fingerboard radius and a Floyd Rose locking tremolo, which collectively propel the Contemporary Strat into the realm of quintessential metal guitars.
The coil-split capability is the cherry on top, making the guitar all the more versatile. It truly exceeds its expectations and, as someone who loves metal, I was surprised to see the limits it can be pushed to.
You’ll find a satin finish and a contoured heel on the neck, which, in tandem, provide an almost flawless level of playability. As an entry-level option for metalheads, you get all the essential elements for a heavily-distorted deep dive.
Even with all of that said, though it’s designed with more aggressive music styles in mind, its versatility makes it a good choice for numerous genres. While a hardtail version could be a welcomed addition, its absence is far from a deal-breaker.
How this guitar sounds:
Summary
Pros
- Perfect for Metal – With high-output humbuckers and a locking trem system, it’s one of the best electric guitars in the lineup for metal.
- Solid Pickups – The SQR Atomic humbuckers are surprisingly clear, even when paired with high-gain amps.
- Versatility – With the onboard coil-splitting feature, you get more tonal possibilities than you would with a traditional Strat.
Cons
- Limited Clean Tones – The inherent design leads toward heavy playing, so anyone who wants pristine cleans might not find what they’re looking for.
What others are saying:
“This guitar far exceeded my expectations. The build quality is top notch- the neck and the Floyd Rose is responsive and feels expertly engineered. The 2 humbuckers produced a very nice growl, plenty of mid-range and no squeal at all. If you were handed this thing blindfolded, you would think you were playing a $1,500 shred machine. It really is that good.” – Mike K, Sweetwater
Who Is This Guitar For?
This guitar is a killer choice for metalheads and modern rock musicians who want top-notch playability and high-output tones.
Who Is This Guitar NOT For?
This guitar is not for players who like the classic single-coil sound of traditional Stratocasters.
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Best Semi-Hollowbody – Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster
Specs
| Body Style | Starcaster Semi-Hollowbody |
| Body Wood | Laminated Maple with Alder center block |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fretboard | 22 narrow tall frets. Maple fingerboard. 9.5″ radius. |
| Nut | Bone |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ |
| Pickups | 2 Fender Wide Range Humbucker |
| Controls | 2 x volume 2 x tone 3-way toggle pickup switch |
| Scale-Length | 25.5″ |
| Bridge | Adjusto-matic with Anchored Tailpiece |
| Tuners | Vintage Style |
When the Fender Starcaster reissue was discontinued, this guitar became the prime contender for those seeking an alternative. Anyone who digs the cult classic semi-hollow design will love this thing.
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster draws inspiration from the 70s semi-hollow-bodied Fender guitar that rose to prominence decades ago. While its design pays homage to the vintage Fender original, you’ll find plenty of modern performance enhancements.
In fact, I’d go as far as saying that it’s the ultimate choice for rhythm guitarists in the Squier lineup, as the harmonically rich, resonant tone is meticulously suited for chord progressions. If you’re in need of a studio guitar that you can use to create a robust sonic foundation for your tracks, this one is it!
The low-frequency prominence might be the most distinct attribute, which has a lot to do with the maple body. The ability to pull a rock ‘n’ roll riff out of such a resonant guitar with absolute clarity and precision is pretty astounding.
Even with the semi-hollow-body design, the wide-range humbuckers play nicely with overdrive pedals and high-gain amps.
The design team also included vintage-style tuners for unwavering tuning precision, and the maple neck feels solid in the hands. With the combination of the Adjusto-matic bridge and the anchored tailpiece, you get great intonation right out of the box.
If that wasn’t enough, the sustain you get from this thing feels like you’re playing a Gibson guitar. This is all thanks to the integration of an alder block running through the core of the body. If you’ve been looking for a high-end semi-hollowbody to add to your arsenal, look no further.
How this guitar sounds:
Summary
Pros
- Beautiful Vintage Design – Best thing you can get akin to the now-discontinued Fender Starcaster
- Loud When Unplugged – Perfect for practice when you don’t have an amp.
- Versatility – The wide-range humbuckers provide a surprising amount of versatility, whether fingerpicking or rhythm playing.
Cons
- Limited Finish Options – Not the most colorful lineup of finish options
What others are saying:
“I just bought the best guitar in the world. You could pay a million bucks for another guitar but I assure you it will not be “better”. This guitar is flawless. I will not change a thing. No upgrade needed. I play it through a Fender Frontman 25r and the combo is absolutely magnificent.” – Charles, Sweetwater
Who Is This Guitar For?
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster is a great semi-hollow-body guitar for guitarists that appreciate vintage design and want a good rhythm guitar to add to their arsenal.
Who Is This Guitar NOT For?
I wouldn’t recommend this guitar to heavy metal players or those who want a sleek, modern solid-body axe.
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Best for Lead Playing – Squier Classic Vibe ‘60s Telecaster Thinline
Specs
| Body Style | ’60s Telecaster Thinline Semi-hollowbody, Chambered |
| Body Wood | Nato |
| Neck | Bolt-on maple |
| Neck Shape | C |
| Fretboard | 21 narrow tall frets. Maple fingerboard. 9.5″ radius. |
| Nut | Bone |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ |
| Pickups | 2 Fender Designed AlNiCo Single-coil |
| Controls | 1 x master volume 1 x master tone 3-way blade pickup switch |
| Scale-Length | 25.5″ |
| Bridge | 3-saddle Strings-thru-body |
| Tuners | Vintage Style |
With its iconic design, the Thinline Telecaster is a dream come true for rock n’ roll aficionados.
The Classic Vibe ‘60s Thinline draws inspiration from the Fender model that played a monumental role in shaping the musical landscape of the 1960s. However, not only does this vintage-looking guitar boast good looks but it also delivers an exceptional sonic experience.
Starting with the Telecaster’s warm and twangy tonal character, which truly shines when channeled through my Fender Twin, you get a sound that’s perfect for old-school country chicken-pickin’.
If it’s a bit too clean for you, you can give it a touch of overdrive or distortion with a pedal to get that classic lead sound out of it.
A solitary F-hole graces the surface of the nato body, enhancing the already bright, resonant qualities it would have without it. Pair that with the maple fingerboard and neck, and you can really hear the difference when you play in the upper octave reaches, making it an excellent choice for when you need a lead guitar that can poke through a wall of rhythm guitars with ease.
It’s a bit different than your standard vintage Tele in that you get an extended 2” fingerboard radius. If you’re a big fan of blues and find yourself incorporating heavy bends in your soloing, this small modification makes a huge difference in terms of offers enhanced accuracy.
How this guitar sounds:
Summary
Pros
- Vintage Look – This Squier captures the essence of vintage appeal like no other Squier in the lineup.
- Semi-Hollow Resonance – The F-hole adds to the tonal character by giving the guitar that slight touch of “air.”
- Lightweight Design – It’s one of the lightest guitars in the Squier lineup too.
- Playability – The thinline is super lightweight and has great action out of the box
Cons
- Limited Tonal Capabilities – With single-coil pickups and a semi-hollow design, it’s not the best for heavier tones.
What others are saying:
“This Squire Thinline is an incredible guitar for the money. The pickups are great stock. The Tuners are vintage style and hold tune well. The neck has rolled fingerboard edges and the fretwork is impeccable!” – Arnold, Sweetwater
Who Is This Guitar For?
The Squier Classic Vibe ‘60s Telecaster Thinline is the perfect Squier guitar for blues and rock players who appreciate the vintage charm and tonal characteristic of the iconic vintage Thinline teles.
Who Is This Guitar NOT For?
It’s not the best guitar for modern players or high-gain heavy metal and rock guitarists.
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Runner-Ups That Just Missed The Top 5
- Best 12 String – Squier Paranormal Jazzmaster XII 12-string
- Best Offest Squier for Beginners – Squier Bullet Mustang HH
- Best Squier Offest – Squier Paranormal Offset Telecaster
- Runner-Up for Metal – Squier Contemporary Active Stratocaster HH
- Best With Soapbar Single-Coils – Squier Paranormal Strat-O-Sonic Electric Guitar
A Brief History of Squier Guitars
In 1982, Fender decided it was time to start producing more accessible, lower-cost models of their popular Strats and Teles. All of the earliest models in the Squier lineup were produced in Japan, though by the mid-80s, they began moving things to other countries in Asia, including Indonesia, China, and South Korea.
It wasn’t until the 1990s that Squier’s reputation would shine, when the company introduced the Affinity Series, a line of entry-level guitar that made use of more modern Fender features. They’d lock in deals with a number of contemporary artists as well, producing signature models like the Simon Neil Stratocaster and the Avril Lavigne Stratocaster, further securing their place as a dominant entry-level guitar brand.
Today, Squier is still expanding and innovating its lineup in many facets, and continues to make some of the best and most popular beginner guitars on the planet.
Buyer’s Guide –
The Squier Range Explained
- Squier Bullet Series: As the ultra-budget-friendly entry-level series, Squier Bullet guitars might not give you the best components or build quality. However, they are extremely accessible, very playable, and can hold tune better than many guitars in the same price range. A Bullet guitar is the best Squier electric guitar for beginners.
- Squier Affinity Series: You’ll find several recognizable designs in the Affinity range, including the Strat and Tele. In terms of quality, a Squier Affinity guitar sits just a step up from Bullet, making it a great intermediate or beginner electric guitar.
- Classic Vibe Series: Classic Vibes are a bt more expensive, though they provide a beautiful vintage look and feel without costing an arm and a leg.
- Squier Contemporary Series: Hence the name, the Contemporary Series provides sleeker, more modern specs and unusual pickup configurations. I recommend these for contemporary rock and metal players.
- Paranormal Series: This is one of the newer series from Squier, which delivers some of the coolest-looking guitar we’ve seen. You’ll find plenty of classic, slightly-twisted shapes with unique specs, perfect for anyone who wants a unique axe that differs from the standard models.
How to Choose The Right Squier Electric Guitar For You?
Body Styles
While you might think the body style is solely for aesthetics, it actually has a lot more to do with comfort and playability than you’d think. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular Squier electric guitar body shapes and what you can expect from each.
Double-Cutaway
The double-cutaway design is arguably one of the most popular Squier body styles. This is the body style on the iconic Stratocaster. Expect a sleek look and contoured edges with excellent playability and comfort.
Single-Cutaway
The single-cutaway design is equally as iconic as it’s what found on the Telecaster-style bodies. You get the same basic level of comfort and playability.
Offset
Jazzmaster and Jaguar-style Squiers utilize the offset body shape, which features uniquely asymmetrical body contours. Not only do you get an interesting aesthetic, but these guitars are also very comfortable when sitting or standing.
Semi-Hollowbody
This particular shape combines the best of hollowbody and solid-body guitars using a center block that runs through the body to increased sustain and reduce feedback.
Woods
One of the ways that Squier is able to cut down on prices so much is by using cheaper electronics, hardware, and wood materials. Here are a few different types of wood you can expect to find on your Squier electric guitar.
Alder
Alder became a standard in Fender Stratocasters early on and can now be found in some Squier instruments, such as the Squier Stratocaster line. It’s a super versatile tonewood with a full-bodied sound and a lightweight feel.
Basswood
Basswood is a cheaper alternative to alder and is known for its neutral tonal characteristics and lightweight feel. It’s a bit softer and warmer than alder with less pronounced lows and highs, and you’ll often find it on cheap electric guitar models.
Poplar
Poplar offers a similar tone and resonance to alder, though it is slightly more affordable, which is why you’ll often find it in budget-friendly Squier models.
Maple
You’ll often find maple on Squier fretboards and necks, as it delivers a very bright, snappy tone akin to Telecasters.
Rosewood
If you’re looking for a warmer, smoother, more vintage-style tone, look for models that make use of rosewood on the fretboards.
Pickups
The type of pickups you choose can have a HUGE impact on your sound, so make sure you have a good understanding of the different types.
Single-Coil Pickups
Single coils are super clear and bright, offering plenty of attack and an airy high-end. You’ll often find three single-coil pickups on Strat-style Squiers. When it comes to versatility, this design is the best choice.
Humbuckers
Humbuckers are two single coils wired together, offering a much thicker and warmer tone than single coils. These pickups were originally made to reduce the unwanted hum you get from their single-coil counterparts. If you’re looking for a Squier guitar that is better for rock or metal, check for those that have humbuckers.
P-90s
P-90 pickups offer a solid a balance between the above two pickup styles. If you want more of a vintage or alternative sound, I recommend going for a Squier with P-90s.
Neck Profile
The neck profile is the shape or contour of the back of the neck, which can have a relatively profound impact on how comfortable the guitar feels in your hands. Let’s look at some of the most common neck types you can expect to find on Squier electric guitars:
C-Shape Neck Profile
As the most common neck profile, the C-shape neck is smooth and comfortable to play, offering the perfect balance between thick and thin for a balanced feel. You’ll often find these necks on Strats.
Modern C Neck Profile
Though it’s similar to the classic C-shape neck, the Modern C neck offers a slimmer design with rounded edges, perfect for fast players or those who want easier access to the higher registers.
U-Neck Profile
For a bit of extra chunk and substantiality, check out the U-neck profiles. These are great for players that want a fuller, retro feel.
V-Neck Profile
If you’re someone that plays with your thumb on the back of the neck, you might like the added stability and grip of the V-neck profile. It’s a bit more “vintage” than the other neck profiles on this list.
Make sure to check out our neck shape guide for more info on what to expect from different neck profiles!
Hardware
The hardware components found on any guitar play a significant role in terms of tuning stability, playability, and sound. There are truly endless hardware options out there, so instead of taking a deep dive into every Frankenstein combination you could come up with, let’s look at a few of the most important factors.
The most important piece of hardware on any electric guitar is the bridge. If I were to pick between two bridges, it would be the vintage-style tremolo bridge and the hardtail bridge. The vintage-style trem bridge can be found on Strat-style Squiers. While you don’t get a high level of tuning stability with these bridges, you do get the ability to play around with subtle vibrato effects, perfect for a more vintage feel. On the other hand, you have hardtail bridges, which are better for players who desire more tuning stability and sustain. These are often found on guitars geared toward hard rock and metal players.
Next, we have the tuners or tuning machines. When it comes to Squier guitars, you’ll often find either vintage-style tuners or modern die-cast tuners. Vintage-style tuners often require a few more turns for tuning precision than modern tuners, though they offer a cool vintage aesthetic. If you truly prioritize tuning accuracy (and you should), I would go for modern die-cast tuners or upgrade your tuners on your own once you get your Squier.
Budget
Your budget is likely the first thing you’ll think of when buying a new Squier guitar, though luckily, most Squier guitars are much more budget-friendly than their Fender cousins. As with most things, you get what you pay for. The more expensive the guitar, the better the tonal characteristics, hardware, wood, etc.
Skill Level
You should also consider your skill level when buying a Squier guitar. Thankfully, Squier offers plenty of models aimed at players of all skill levels.
If you’re a complete beginner, we recommend going for a beginner Squier, such as the Bullet or Affinity Stratocaster. This guitar provides a solid foundation and excellent playability to get your journey started on the right foot.
Once you graduate to an intermediate player, you can start looking at guitars from the Classic Vibe and Affinity series, which offer better components and materials.
If you’re an advanced player, you might consider moving on from Squier and checking out the Fender line of guitars.
How to Test
Guitars are extremely tactile pieces of equipment, and the only true way you can know if one is right for you is by playing it yourself. I recommend heading down to your local music store and testing a few of these options out.
Here’s a step-by-step process you can use to test out guitars:
- Inspect It: Start by finding a guitar that you dig the look of. You want something that inspires you to pick it up and play, so aesthetics are important.
- Get In Tune: Before you start playing, make sure the guitar is in tune. This is a great opportunity to test its intonation and see how accurate it is.
- Play Without an Amp: To get a real sense for the uncolored sound of the guitar, start by playing it unplugged. Listen for how well it resonates, how well the sustain holds out, and what kind of tone it has. Play each fret to see if you hear any buzz or dead spots.
- Consider Comfort: How’s the action or space between the strings and fretboard? Does it feel comfortable in your hands? Is it too heavy or too light?
- Plug It In: Plug your guitar into an amp and set the dials to be as neutral as possible. Play around with some notes and chords while flipping through the pickup, volume, and tone knob settings. Make sure everything is in working condition and that it sounds good to you.
- Play Around with Some Pedals: Some guitars play nicer with pedals than others, so if you’re planning on using pedals, such as overdrive, distortion, or reverb, see how this particular guitar sounds with them.
At the end of the day, you have to trust your hands and your ears. If it feels and sounds good to you, then it’s a worthy contender!
FAQs
Who Should Buy A Squier Guitar?
Squier guitars are great for beginner players or players looking for a budget-friendly alternative to Fender guitars.
Are Squier Guitars Any Good?
Squier has become more and more reputable electric guitar brand over the years, and many people consider their guitars to be some of the best budget-friendly options out there. While they might not have the same level of craftsmanship as more expensive guitars, they have solid build quality, tonal versatility, and playability.
Do Any Famous Guitarists Use Squier?
One of my absolute favorites is Simon Neil from Biffy Clyro, who uses a Squier Vintage Modified Telecaster. Isaac Brock from Modest Mouse has also been know to use Squiers, including a Squier Vintage Modified Jaguar. Mike Rutherford of Genesis is known to swing a Squier from time to time. Finally, it has to be noticed that George Harrison used one during a Prince’s Trust Rock Gala. Check out the video here!
Is Fender Really Better Than Squier?
While it’s hard to say whether Fender is “better” than Squier, there are certainly a few key differences between Squier and Fender to note.
Craftsmanship: Generally, Fender guitars have better craftsmanship than Squiers thanks to their premium materials.
Tone: While both sound great, Fender guitars often have a more “refined” sound, thanks to higher-quality pickups, hardware, and wood.
Playability: Both of these brands offer solid playability. It truly comes down to what kind of feel you prefer.
Resale Value: Fender guitars have a much higher resale value if you ever decide to sell your guitar down the road.
Where Are Squier Guitars Made?
Squier guitars are made in factories all over the world, including China, Indonesia, India, and Vietnam.
Who Owns Squier Guitars?
Squier is owned by the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation, so you can expect to see all of the same design principles in the brand’s instruments.
Why Are Squier So Cheap?
Squier guitars are generally more affordable than their Fender counterparts because they use lower-quality materials and simplified production processes. Plus, they are often manufactured in countries with lower labor costs, such as China and Indonesia.
Are Squier Guitars Good Quality?
Absolutely! However, the quality will depend on the series and model you choose. Some Squier guitars have higher-quality components and build than others.
Are Squier Guitars Good for Gigging?
Squier guitars are excellent for gigging, especially if you’re looking for a reliable guitar. Just make sure you choose a Squier with solid tuning stability.
Can You Upgrade Hardware on Squier Guitars?
You can definitely upgrade the hardware of a Squier guitar. Some of the main things people upgrade on their Squiers include tuners, pickups, nuts, bridges, electronics, saddles, strap buttons, and output jacks.
How Durable Are Squier Guitars?
Squier guitars are generally pretty durable, though certain higher-end models, such as those from the Classic Vibe and Vintage Modified Series, are generally more durable than lower-end models.
Are Squier Guitars Better Than Epiphone Guitars?
While I personally love Squier guitars more than Epiphones, saying one brand is better than the other is completely subjective. There are plenty of great Epiphone guitars out there.
Are Squiers Good for Metal?
Certain Squier models are better for metal than others. If you’re looking for a good metal guitar, I’d recommend looking for a Squier with humbuckers and a hardtail bridge for better tuning stability and.
Where Are The Best Squier Guitars Made?
The best Squier guitars were made in the USA between 1989 and 1990, though the company has since moved all of its production to the Far East.
What Are The Best Guitar Strings for Squier?
While the type of strings you use for your Squier will come down to preference and playing style, my favorite strings for my Squier guitar are the Super Slinky strings from Ernie Ball.
Conclusion on Best Squier Guitars
There you have it — some of the best Squier guitars in the game!
Buying a guitar can be just as stressful as buying a car (if you’re a crazy person like me), so I hope this little buying guide makes the process a bit less stressful. As you go and test out the wide world of Squiers, trust your instincts. When you find the right guitar, you’ll know!
If you have any questions, just leave a comment down below. Happy shredding!
