Are you searching for the best electric bass guitar to kickstart your musical journey? Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to upgrade from a starter model, choosing the right bass guitar and amp combo can significantly shape your learning experience. From smooth neck action to powerful tones and ergonomic design, finding the best beginner bass guitar means balancing quality, comfort, and affordability.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked the top 10 electric bass guitars for beginners in 2025, including budget bass guitars under $300, starter kits with amps, and stylish models that deliver performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re practicing at home or prepping for your first jam session, these guitars will help you play with confidence and style.
1. Sawtooth ST-ES-BKB Black Electric Guitar Starter Kit
If you’re a beginner eager to dive into bass playing, the Sawtooth ST-ES-BKB Black Electric guitar kit is one of the best electric bass guitars for beginners. This all-in-one bundle includes everything you need to get started—making it a top choice for anyone seeking a starter bass guitar with amp combo that’s both affordable and performance-ready.
The ST-ES-BKB features a sleek basswood body with a comfortable C-shaped neck, offering smooth fretting and easy playability, especially for those just starting out. The guitar is equipped with three single-coil pickups, a five-way selector switch, two tone controls, and a master volume knob—giving you a surprising range of tones suitable for rock, jazz, blues, and more.
This budget bass guitar for beginners also comes with a compact practice amp, strap, cable, digital tuner clip, picks, and a padded gig bag. The hardware includes chrome tuners and a tremolo bridge for expressive play. Whether you’re jamming in your bedroom or practicing with friends, the Sawtooth electric bass delivers reliable sound and excellent value.
Features:
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Full-size electric bass guitar with a classic black finish
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Comfortable C-shaped neck for beginner-friendly play
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Includes amp, gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, and more
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Five-way pickup selector with tone/volume control
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Ideal for multiple music genres
Pros:
✅ Complete beginner bundle with amp
✅ Comfortable neck design
✅ Durable build with a quality finish
✅ Great tone versatility for entry-level players
✅ One of the best electric bass guitars under $300
Cons:
❌ Included strap could be better quality
❌ Amp is basic—ideal for practice, not performance
2. Goplus Electric Bass Guitar Full Size Starter Kit
The Goplus Electric Bass Guitar stands out as a strong contender for the best electric bass guitar under $300, offering excellent value for beginners and hobbyists alike. This full-size 4-string electric bass is crafted with a solid paulownia body and a sleek rosewood fingerboard, delivering both durability and smooth playability.
The Goplus is designed to be lightweight, well-balanced, and visually appealing with its high-gloss finish and chrome hardware. As one of the best beginner bass guitars, it’s easy to handle and produces warm, punchy tones that work well across genres—from jazz to funk and rock.
What makes this guitar kit especially appealing is its bass guitar and amp combo approach. It includes a portable amplifier, shoulder strap, gig bag, cable, and picks—everything a first-time player needs to start playing right out of the box. The neck is easy to navigate, and the frets are spaced well for learners who are still developing finger strength and dexterity.
If you’re looking for an affordable electric bass guitar that doesn’t compromise on tone or style, Goplus delivers impressive craftsmanship and tone quality at an entry-level price.
Features:
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Full-size 4-string bass guitar with polished black finish
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Solid paulownia body and rosewood fingerboard
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Comes with amp, strap, cable, bag, and picks
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Lightweight, beginner-friendly design
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Great tone for practice and casual performance
Pros:
✅ Budget-friendly and stylish
✅ Smooth fingerboard and polished body
✅ Includes all essential accessories
✅ Reliable option for starter bass guitar kits
Cons:
❌ Frets may need light filing for comfort
❌ Amp is good for practice only—not for stage use
3. Smartxchoices 39” Full Size Electric Bass Guitar Starter Pack
The Smartxchoices 39” Electric Bass Guitar is an excellent pick for aspiring musicians who want a complete package. Designed with beginners in mind, this bundle includes a full-size bass guitar, portable amp, strap, gig bag, picks, and cable—making it one of the most convenient bass guitar and amp combo kits available for new players.
The guitar features a hardwood body, rosewood fretboard, and a stunning black-and-blue finish that adds a stylish touch to its functional design. It’s lightweight and compact, ideal for teens or adults learning to play. The smooth neck profile and steel strings offer ease of pressing and fretting, helping learners develop technique with less finger fatigue.
Whether you’re jamming in your room or taking your first music class, this starter bass guitar delivers consistent performance with good tone control. It’s a budget-friendly way to begin your bass journey without sacrificing visual appeal or sound quality.
Features:
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39” full-size electric bass guitar with amplifier
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Rosewood fretboard and steel strings
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Stylish black/blue finish
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Lightweight and easy to handle
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Complete with accessories: gig bag, amp, picks, strap
Pros:
✅ Affordable all-in-one starter set
✅ Attractive finish and smooth neck
✅ Lightweight and easy to carry
✅ Ideal for beginners and casual practice
Cons:
❌ Amp and build quality suited only for entry-level use
❌ Less durable than higher-end models
4. Glarry GP Electric Bass Guitar – Red Edition
The Glarry GP Electric Bass Guitar in red is one of the best-selling and best electric bass guitars for beginners under $300, thanks to its combination of playability, aesthetics, and pricing. It’s designed with a contoured basswood body that’s both lightweight and sturdy—perfect for long practice sessions.
It comes equipped with a maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, delivering a smooth, comfortable feel. The deeper string tension and thicker gauge strings offer improved control and sustain, which is ideal for rock, funk, or jazz styles. Its sound is rich and defined, making it a favorite among first-time players.
Included in this bass guitar starter kit are essential accessories like a strap, amp cable, gig bag, and pick—so you can plug in and play right away. If you’re looking for a top-rated beginner bass guitar with great sound and minimal setup fuss, the Glarry GP is a fantastic choice.
Features:
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Contoured basswood body with red finish
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Maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
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Adjustable bridge and quality tuning pegs
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Full starter pack with amp cable, bag, strap
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Delivers punchy tone and stable intonation
Pros:
✅ Lightweight and comfortable to play
✅ High-quality finish and feel
✅ Thick strings improve sustain
✅ Great value for new players
Cons:
❌ May require basic setup or tuning out of the box
❌ Neck dive could be noticeable for some
5. Glarry Electric Bass Guitar – White Finish
Stylish and budget-friendly, the Glarry Electric Bass Guitar in White is an excellent choice for learners seeking a simple yet elegant design. This model ranks among the best electric bass guitars under $300 and stands out for its clean white aesthetic and solid basswood build.
The smooth maple neck and rosewood fretboard offer excellent playability, and the guitar is well-balanced for extended practice sessions. Its sound is warm with just enough punch to support rock, blues, or pop playing styles. Thick strings and strong string tension ensure responsive action and sustain.
Ideal for entry-level use, this bass guitar and amp combo kit includes a strap, gig bag, amp cable, and pick. The Glarry White Bass Guitar is perfect for beginners who want quality performance and good looks at a low price point.
Features:
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White basswood body with smooth finish
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Maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
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Starter accessories included
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Great tone and response for beginners
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Warm, round bass tone
Pros:
✅ Lightweight and stylish design
✅ Good playability for new learners
✅ Warm tone and good sustain
✅ Excellent value bundle for the price
Cons:
❌ Basic packaging—amp quality is minimal
❌ May need tuning more frequently at first
6. Fender Affinity Squier Telecaster Electric Bass (Austin Bazaar Bundle)
The Fender Affinity Series Squier Telecaster is a step up in quality and perfect for beginners wanting long-term value. As one of the top-rated electric bass guitars for beginners, this model boasts a classic Telecaster shape, premium tonewoods, and Fender’s iconic styling.
This starter bass guitar kit includes a three-way pickup switch (bridge, neck, or both), giving you access to a wide tonal range. The C-shaped neck delivers a comfortable vintage feel, and the maple fingerboard adds brightness and clarity to your tone. It’s a great choice for blues, country, indie, and rock music.
The Austin Bazaar bundle includes essential accessories like a padded gig bag, strap, picks, and instructional materials—so you can start playing right away. This is a great option for players who want a quality instrument with professional tones and timeless appeal.
Features:
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C-shaped neck for vintage comfort
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Three-way pickup selector switch
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Maple fingerboard and Telecaster body
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Austin Bazaar beginner accessory bundle
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Trusted Fender brand quality
Pros:
✅ Classic tone and professional feel
✅ Great for multiple genres
✅ Smooth and playable neck
✅ High-quality build and finish
Cons:
❌ Amp in bundle is basic
❌ Slightly higher price point than budget models
7. Fender ¾ Squier Mini Strat – Kids’ Electric Guitar
For young musicians or players with smaller hands, the Fender Squier ¾ Size Mini Strat is a fantastic introduction to electric guitar playing. Though technically a guitar and not a bass, it’s often considered in starter packs for those testing the waters before transitioning to full-size bass guitars.
The Mini Strat’s short 22.75-inch scale length and lightweight body make it one of the most manageable instruments for kids aged 6–12. It’s equipped with three single-coil pickups, a five-way switch, and a hardtail bridge that offers great tuning stability—perfect for practicing basic techniques.
This model shines as one of the best electric bass guitar alternatives for kids or absolute beginners. It’s a reliable way to build foundational skills before graduating to full-size beginner bass guitars.
Features:
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¾ size electric guitar for smaller hands
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Comfortable, lightweight body
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Hardtail bridge and 3 single-coil pickups
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Bullet Strat styling in a compact form
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Great Fender tone and construction
Pros:
✅ Ideal size for kids or travelers
✅ Reliable tuning and playability
✅ Great tone for its size
✅ Affordable Fender quality
Cons:
❌ Not a true bass guitar (more suitable for pre-bass learners)
❌ Amp included is very basic
8. Costzon Electric Bass Guitar – Full Size, 4-String Kit
The Costzon Electric Bass Guitar is a highly rated choice for players seeking a budget bass guitar for beginners with solid build quality and good sound. Constructed with a solid paulownia body and polished rosewood fingerboard, this model offers durability, comfort, and a clean tone profile.
Its full-size 4-string design is perfect for students and casual players alike. The body has a beautiful smooth finish, and the neck is slim and easy to grip—ideal for new bassists working on their finger positioning. Despite its low price, the instrument feels well-built and responsive.
The bundle comes complete with a gig bag, strap, amp cable, and picks, making it an attractive bass guitar and amp combo for first-timers. Whether you’re playing rock, funk, or jazz, this is one of the best electric bass guitars under $300 that delivers consistent tone and solid beginner playability.
Features:
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Full-size electric bass guitar
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Solid paulownia body with a smooth finish
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Slim neck and polished rosewood fingerboard
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Complete beginner kit with essential accessories
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Durable hardware and good tonal balance
Pros:
✅ Comfortable and lightweight
✅ Smooth polished design
✅ Includes accessories for beginners
✅ Great value for a full-size bass
Cons:
❌ May require initial tuning adjustments
❌ Amp quality not suitable for large venues
9. Glarry GJazz 4-String Electric Bass Guitar
If you’re looking for a visually striking and affordable option, the Glarry GJazz Electric Bass Guitar is a top pick. With its full-size design, eye-catching finish, and excellent playability, this bass is designed for players who want style and performance on a budget.
The GJazz features a contoured body, adjustable bridge, and strong fretwire with high tensile strength. These features enhance both sound stability and the instrument’s lifespan, making it a great investment for students and casual players. The neck and fingerboard are ergonomically shaped, allowing for fast learning and smooth transitions.
It comes with a complete starter bass guitar kit, including a strap, amp cord, pick, and bag. This model is consistently praised as one of the best beginner bass guitars under $300, especially for its tone, comfort, and customization potential.
Features:
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Full-size electric bass with adjustable bridge
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High-tensile fretwire for durability
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Comfortable maple neck and rosewood fingerboard
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Accessory kit included for new players
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Great sound with responsive tone
Pros:
✅ Excellent tone for the price
✅ Strong, durable components
✅ Ideal for learning and gigging
✅ Popular among beginner bassists
Cons:
❌ Minor setup may be required out of the box
❌ Pickguard materials feel a bit thin
10. Donner DLP-124B 39-Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Kit
Closing our list is the Donner DLP-124B 39-Inch Electric Guitar Kit, one of the most well-rounded and best electric bass guitars for beginners who want both quality and affordability. Donner is known for producing beginner-friendly instruments, and this model is no exception.
Built with a solid basswood body, the DLP-124B features nickel-wound steel strings, a chrome tuner, and a smooth fingerboard that’s easy to navigate. The tuning pegs are made from high-quality steel, which helps the guitar stay in tune longer, even with frequent practice sessions.
Included in the bundle are a gig bag, cable, strap, and digital tuner—giving you a complete kit to start playing right away. With its bright and vibrant tone, the DLP-124B is perfect for rock, pop, or blues, and its comfortable body makes it a great entry point for anyone new to electric guitars.
With its bright and vibrant tone, the DLP-124B is perfect for rock, pop, or blues, and its comfortable body makes it a great entry point for anyone new to electric guitars. After a jam session, treat yourself to comfort—like slipping into a pair of super comfy slippers.
Features:
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Solid basswood body and steel string construction
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Chrome tuners and smooth frets
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Includes full accessory kit
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Bright tone for multiple genres
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Designed for beginner comfort
Pros:
✅ Stays in tune well
✅ Vibrant sound profile
✅ Affordable yet durable
✅ All-in-one beginner set
Cons:
❌ Some fret edges may need light sanding
❌ Slightly heavier than other beginner models
🎸 Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Electric Bass Guitar for Beginners
Choosing the best electric bass guitar for beginners requires more than just picking the flashiest model. To get the most value and grow as a musician, you need to understand the key elements that define a great starter bass guitar.
✅ 1. Electric vs. Acoustic Bass
If you’re just starting out, go with an electric bass guitar. They’re more versatile, easier to play due to lighter string tension, and pair well with a variety of music genres like rock, funk, jazz, and blues. Acoustic bass guitars tend to be bulkier and louder unplugged, but they aren’t as beginner-friendly.
✅ 2. Bass Guitar and Amp Combo
For beginners, a bass guitar and amp combo kit is the most practical choice. These bundles come with all the essentials—amp, cable, strap, and gig bag—so you can start playing right away. This is ideal for those who don’t want to shop for accessories separately.
✅ 3. Neck and Body Comfort
Comfort is critical, especially for new players. Look for a C-shaped neck or slimmer profile that feels natural in your hands. The body should be lightweight and ergonomically contoured so you can practice longer without fatigue.
✅ 4. Pickups and Tone Control
Most beginner bass guitars come with either single-coil or split-coil pickup systems. Single-coils provide bright, clear tones, while split-coils offer punchier, warmer bass. A pickup switch and tone control knobs allow you to experiment and shape your sound, aiding in discovering tones that suit your style. For more insights on pickups and tone control, check out Guitar World’s guide to buying a bass guitar.
✅ 5. String Count and Scale Length
A standard 4-string bass is recommended for beginners. It’s easier to learn than 5- or 6-string options. Also, pay attention to scale length—a shorter scale (like 30”) is more manageable for younger players or those with smaller hands.
✅ 6. Build Quality & Price Range
If you’re on a budget, aim for the best bass guitar under $300. Brands like Glarry, Donner, and Goplus offer solid entry-level models with impressive performance. You’ll get good sound quality and solid durability without overspending.
✅ 7. Appearance and Finish
Though not the most important feature, looks can still inspire you to practice. If a guitar’s design excites you—whether it’s a sleek black finish or a vibrant red—you’re more likely to pick it up every day.
🎵 Choosing the Right Fit: Budget, Style & Quality
Finding the best starter bass guitar means choosing an instrument that’s both easy to play and built to last. In today’s market, there’s no shortage of top-rated bass guitars 2025, many of which are designed specifically for beginners who want solid performance without overspending. If you’re looking to save, you’ll be happy to know that several of the best bass guitars under 300 still deliver great tone, reliable hardware, and beginner-friendly ergonomics.
Many entry-level players benefit from a beginner bass guitar kit with amp, which includes everything needed to start playing—making setup quick and hassle-free. These kits often feature lightweight bodies, comfortable necks, and built-in electronics that make them ideal for at-home practice. Whether you’re into rock, funk, or jazz, choosing the best electric bass for beginners will set you on the right path to developing your skills.
It’s also smart to begin with the best 4-string bass guitar, as it simplifies learning and provides plenty of tonal range for new musicians. With the right combination of price, playability, and style, you’ll find that starting your musical journey has never been more accessible.
🔍 What Makes a Great Beginner Bass Guitar?
When exploring the market for the best electric bass for beginners, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the choices. However, narrowing it down to the best 4-string bass guitars can simplify your decision. These models are favored by beginners because they offer just the right amount of complexity for learning fundamentals while still being versatile enough to play various genres. From classic rock grooves to modern funk lines, a quality 4-string bass gets the job done.
For budget-conscious musicians, the best bass guitars under 300 offer surprising quality, especially from brands like Glarry, Donner, and Sawtooth. These instruments don’t just look good—they sound great too, and they often come as part of a beginner bass guitar kit with amp, making them perfect for learners starting from scratch. Many of these kits are featured in curated lists of the top-rated bass guitars 2025, helping buyers make smart, informed decisions.
If you want long-term value without a high upfront investment, consider the best starter bass guitar options that prioritize comfort, durability, and tone clarity. These guitars will not only support your early practice sessions but will also continue to perform well as you grow into more advanced playing techniques.
💰 Why the Best Bass Guitars Under $300 Are Worth It
You don’t need to break the bank to start playing quality music. In fact, some of the best bass guitars under 300 provide the same performance and durability as more expensive models. These budget-friendly instruments are perfect for beginners who want a solid foundation without a huge investment. Many of these bass guitars feature sturdy basswood or paulownia bodies, comfortable neck profiles, and reliable pickups that produce full, rich tones across different music genres.
What makes the best bass guitar under 300 stand out is its ability to combine affordability with functionality. Brands like Goplus, Glarry, and Donner consistently deliver instruments that not only look sleek but also feel smooth and easy to play. Whether you’re practicing at home or jamming with friends, these guitars hold tuning well and support long playing sessions with ease. If you’re starting your bass journey on a budget, these models prove that high quality doesn’t always come with a high price tag.
🎯 Conclusion: Which Electric Bass Guitar Is Best for You?
Finding the best electric bass guitar doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a practical upgrade, the models reviewed above offer something for every beginner’s need and budget. From all-in-one starter bass guitar kits to solid-body models with great tone control, there’s a perfect fit for every aspiring bassist.
If you’re looking for the most recommended beginner bass guitar, the Sawtooth ST-ES-BKB Black Electric Guitar is a standout. It offers impressive tone, great accessories, and beginner-friendly comfort—making it a reliable and affordable choice.
For kids or younger learners, the Fender ¾ Squier Mini Strat provides easy handling and a fun playing experience. And if you want something budget-friendly yet powerful, the Glarry GP Electric Bass and Goplus Electric Bass Guitar are hard to beat in terms of value and performance.
Use this guide to assess what matters most—tone, playability, style, or budget—and confidently choose the best electric bass for beginners that helps you unlock your musical potential.
Once you’ve chosen your favorite bass, you’re ready to rock. And if you want to look sharp while doing it, check out our guide to the top 10 best nose hair trimmers for men—because stage presence isn’t just about the music.