There are a lot of cheap guitars out there.
Most of them feel like it.
Stiff to play, rough around the edges, hard to keep in tune… and for a beginner, that’s usually where things fall apart.
At Colemans Music, we see this all the time. Someone starts on a guitar that fights them, gets frustrated, and gives up.
The good news is, there are a few guitars in that sub-$500 range that actually get it right.
If You Just Want the Short Answer
If someone walks into the shop with around $300–$500 to spend on their first electric guitar, we usually point them straight towards the JET range.
They’re consistent, easy to play, and don’t feel like a throwaway purchase.
What Makes a Cheap Guitar Feel “Cheap”?
Before we get into the good ones, it’s worth understanding what usually goes wrong:
- Poor setup (hard to press down, uncomfortable to play)
- Rough fret edges
- Unstable tuning
- Cheap-feeling neck finish
These are the things that make people stop playing.
Not the pickups. Not the wood.
👉 The feel.
What Actually Matters Instead
When we’re recommending a beginner electric guitar, we focus on:
- Neck comfort
- Playability straight out of the box
- Consistency across the range
- Whether it feels like something you’ll keep playing
That’s where the following models stand out.
🥇 JET JS-300 – Best All-Rounder Under $500
The JET JS-300 has become one of the easiest recommendations we make.
It’s simple, comfortable, and works across almost any style.
Why it stands out:
- Smooth roasted maple neck (doesn’t feel sticky)
- Easy to play straight away
- Consistent build quality
- Classic S-style layout that covers a lot of ground
If you’re not sure what to choose, this is the safest place to start.
👉 (Check the JS-300 collection here)
🥈 JET JT-300 – If You Want Something Simpler & Direct
The JET JT-300 is a more stripped-back option.
Less switching, more direct sound.
Why people choose it:
- Straightforward controls
- Punchy, clear tone
- Great for rhythm playing
- Slightly more “plug in and go” feel
If you don’t want to overthink things, this is a great alternative to the JS-300.
🥉 JET JS-400 – A Step Up Without Jumping in Price
The JET JS-400 sits just above the JS-300.
It’s still affordable, but you start to get a slightly more refined feel.
What you’ll notice:
- A bit more detail in the tone
- Slightly more polished overall feel
- A good option if you want something you’ll grow into
New vs Used (Worth Thinking About)
One advantage we have in-store is a rotating range of used guitars.
Sometimes, that means you can:
- Get more for your money
- Find something already “played in”
- Step into a higher level guitar for the same budget
👉 (Shop Pre Loved and Used Guitars)
What Else You’ll Need
Don’t forget:
- A small amp
- Cable
- Picks
- Tuner
We can help you put together a simple setup if you’re not sure.
If You’re Buying in Melbourne
If you’re near South Melbourne, the best thing you can do is come in and try a few.
Even within the same model range, the feel can matter.
We’ll set you up, walk you through the options, and make sure you leave with something that actually works for you.
Final Thought
Cheap guitars don’t have to feel cheap.
But you do need to choose carefully.
The JET range has become one of the most reliable options we’ve seen in this price bracket, and for a lot of players, it’s where things start to click.
If you’re looking to get started, you can check out the JET range online or visit us in South Melbourne to try them in person. We’re a proudly independent, family owned Australian music store that knows gear and backs it with great service.
