Discover the best guitars under £1000 in our guide to the best budget guitars in 2023, including the likes of Antiquity, Ferndale, Squier and more! 

When searching for a guitar under £1000, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. One of the most important is the quality of the materials used in its construction. This can include the tonewoods used for the body and neck, as well as the components such as the pickups and hardware.

Another important factor is the playability of the instrument. A guitar that is difficult to play or uncomfortable to hold can hinder your progress as a musician, so it's crucial to find a guitar that feels good in your hands.

Of course, sound is also an important consideration. You'll want to find a guitar that produces a tone that matches your playing style and genre preferences. This can be influenced by the type of pickups used, the body shape and size, and the overall construction of the instrument.

Finally, it's important to consider the value for money that the guitar offers. While £1000 may not be a small amount of money, it's still within the budget range for many players, and you want to ensure that you're getting the most for your investment.

With all these factors in mind, there are certainly many great options available for those looking for a guitar under £1000, whether you're in the market for an acoustic or an electric instrument. In this blog, we'll be exploring some of the best options available and what makes them stand out in their respective categories.

Best Guitars Under £1000

Our picks for the best guitars under £1000 are:

  • Antiquity Guitars
  • Ferndale Guitars
  • Squier Guitars
  • Fender Guitars

Let’s get started with a PMT Exclusive from Antiquity...

Antiquity Guitars

There is no doubt about the best budget electric guitars for under £1000 on the market. All of the guitar Experts at PMT have been taken by the range produced by Antiquity, which perform well above their price-point and offer everything you’d expect from a much more expensive instrument.

In addition to their iconic designs, these guitars offer legendary sounds for players of all kinds, with nods to some of the most famous instruments from the golden era of rock’n’roll.

You can also shop the awesome range of bundles that help you get kitted out with a gig-ready amplifier and all of the accessories you’ll need – find them all below:

Ferndale Guitars

If you think your budget would be better spent on an acoustic instrument, then look no further than Ferndale.

These guitars are our top pick for the best acoustic instruments under £1000 because they avoid gimmicks and prioritise what really matters. This no-nonsense approach means that you’re granted a guitar that plays and sounds like an instrument that would cost far more than it really does, with a range of models for players of all styles.

Quality tonewoods, premium components, and an attention-to-detail rarely found at this budget – you can’t go wrong with Ferndale.

Check out the complete range below:

Squier Guitars

When it comes to finding a great guitar under £1000, the Squier brand is definitely worth considering. Known for their iconic designs and build quality, Squier offers a range of models that won't break the bank. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, there's a Squier guitar for everyone.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a Squier guitar is their affordability. With a range of models available at different price points, you can easily find a Squier guitar that fits your budget. This means you won't have to sacrifice quality or features for the sake of affordability. Plus, with £1000 to play with, choosing a Squier means you’ll have some budget left to invest in an amplifier or some pedals.

Another advantage of Squier guitars is their iconic designs. Squier offers a range of guitars that pay homage to classic Fender designs, such as the Stratocaster and Telecaster. These guitars not only look great, but they also offer a familiar feel and sound that many players love.

When it comes to build quality, Squier guitars are also worth mentioning. While they may not be made in the same factories as their more expensive Fender counterparts, Squier guitars are still built to a high standard. You can expect a Squier guitar to have a solid build, with well-finished frets and a comfortable neck.

Overall, if you're looking for a great guitar under £1000, a Squier model is definitely worth considering. With their affordable price point, iconic designs, and solid build quality, Squier guitars offer a lot of value for the money. So, whether you're just starting out or looking to add a new guitar to your collection, a Squier guitar could be the perfect choice for you.

Fender Guitars

Fender guitars are a top choice for many professional musicians, and for good reason. These guitars are built to the highest quality standards and are designed to offer the player a lifetime of musical enjoyment. While a Fender guitar may use up most of your budget, the investment is worth it.

One of the benefits of choosing a Fender guitar is the wide range of models available. From Stratocasters to Telecasters, to Jaguars and Jazzmasters, Fender offers something for everyone. These guitars are built with high-quality tonewoods, such as ash, alder, and mahogany, and are fitted with top-quality hardware, such as locking tuners, high-end pickups, and bridge systems.

Fender guitars are known for their designs which revolutionised guitar playing, and which have been the standard for electric guitars since their inception. The classic Stratocaster and Telecaster designs are recognized the world over, and have been used on countless hit records. Fender guitars are also renowned for their build quality, which is second to none. These instruments are designed to be played hard, and can take a beating without missing a beat.

While a Fender guitar may be a significant investment, it is one that will pay off in the long run. These guitars are built to last a lifetime and are a professional choice for any musician. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, a Fender guitar is a guitar you can rely on. So, if you're looking for an instrument under £1000, consider investing in a Fender guitar - it will be an investment that you won't regret.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, finding the best guitar under £1000 requires careful consideration of various factors. It's important to prioritize quality construction and components, such as good tonewoods and pickups, while also taking into account the guitar's aesthetics and overall playability. Don't be afraid to try out different models and brands to find the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

It's also worth noting that guitars in this price range can often offer a great balance of value and quality, making them a smart investment for both beginners and more experienced players alike. With some research and patience, it's possible to find a great guitar that doesn't break the bank.


Visit your local PMT Store or call us on 0151 448 2089 to speak to one of our Experts about your needs, and find the latest guitar gear online now – including a huge selection of pre-owned and more!