A great bass guitar is the foundation of any solid rock or funk foundation, but high-end instruments can cost an arm and a leg. That's why we've curated this list of affordable basses that won't break the bank but still deliver impressive tone and playability. Our top picks offer exceptional value for money, featuring premium construction and reliable performance, so you can play your favorite songs without worrying about your bank account.
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Reviews
This full-size electric bass guitar blends solid wood craftsmanship with modern appointments like a 24-fret maple neck and rosewood fingerboard, delivering rich, natural tone that cuts through any mix. The Burlywood-finished body pairs elegant looks with durable construction that'll withstand regular playing. A split single-coil pickup setup gives you versatile tone shaping, while included tools keep your gear running smoothly.
The Ibanez GSRM20 Mikro brings big bass sound in a compact package, with its 28.6" short-scale neck making it incredibly comfortable for players of all skill levels. Built with quality craftsmanship that matches Ibanez's full-size models, this transparent red bass combines great playability with lasting durability. Whether you're a seasoned player looking for a second bass or a student just starting out, the Mikro delivers exceptional value with its responsive tone and reliable performance.
With its rosewood fingerboard and maple neck, the Glarry GP delivers a warm, responsive tone that's perfect for both practice and performance. The precision-tuned split single-coil pickup and fixed bridge system ensure your notes stay clear and in tune, while the comfortable "C"-shaped neck invites hours of playing. At just 7.7 pounds, this bass feels surprisingly nimble for its size, making it an outstanding choice whether you're a beginner exploring the fundamentals or an experienced player looking for your next great sounds.
This attractive entry-level bass combines remarkable playability with professional-grade features, from its slim satin-finished maple neck to its precise tone control. The ceramic split single-coil pickup delivers rich, defined tones that cut through any mix, while the four-saddle bridge ensures spot-on intonation. Built tough enough for daily practice or professional gigs, every detail has been considered for both new players and experienced musicians who value great tone and reliable performance.
Crafted for players with smaller hands or those new to bass, the Ibanez miKro packs full-size sound into a compact frame. With its 28.6-inch scale length and Mahogany-Maple construction, it delivers rich tone while weighing a manageable 8.2 pounds. The Jatoba fretboard and B10 bridge combine to offer excellent playability and tuning stability, making this a versatile addition to any music collection.
This dark blue electric bass combines a gorgeous wood finish with a comfortable maple neck for smooth playability. The 20-fret rosewood fingerboard and split single-coil pickup deliver clear tone, while the adjustable bridge system keeps your tuning stable. Built to last with high-tensile fretwire, this bass lets you focus on playing rather than maintenance.
The Squier Sonic Bronco packs Fender-style flair into an affordable package, with a slim "C"-shaped neck and lightweight body that feels amazing during those long gigs. The single-coil pickup delivers that classic Fender bass tone with plenty of punch, while the short 30" scale and 4-saddle bridge give you serious control over your intonation. The chrome hardware adds a nice touch of class to this already impressive budget-friendly bass.
This fully functional electric bass guitar arrives complete with essentials like a waterproof case, genuine pick, shoulder strap, and matching amp cord. The included hex wrench makes setup a breeze.
This new acoustic-electric bass guitar delivers the punchy tone and versatility you'd expect from a quality instrument, packed in a convenient dark blue case that keeps your investment protected. The included wrench makes quick work of any needed adjustments, while the bundled cable ensures you're always ready to play. Whether you're just starting out or transitioning from an older model, this affordable bass gives you great value for your money.
This full-size electric bass guitar makes an impressive debut for beginners, blending a responsive rosewood fingerboard with a durable paulownia body that projects rich tones from its two versatile pickups. The included travel bag keeps your investment protected during lessons or gigs, while the lightweight 7.7-pound frame feels surprisingly comfortable during practice sessions.
This comfortable bass guitar combines stylish natural wood construction with professional-grade materials like maple neck and rosewood fretboard. The lightweight design and optimized string tension deliver big-bass tone perfect for modern music production. The included power cable and wrench tool kit make it a practical choice for home studio players transitioning from drums or other instruments.
This full-size 4-string bass combines professional-grade construction with budget-friendly pricing, featuring a rosewood-fretted basswood body that projects rich lows through its split single-coil pickup. The included 20-watt practice amp delivers clear highs but could be more powerful for deep bass tones. Overall, it proves to be a capable performer and practical learning tool, particularly when supplemented with a better-quality amplifier.
The Mitchell MB100 combines a 30-inch scale length with a contoured body for comfortable playability, featuring dual split and single-coil pickups controlled by two volume knobs and a master tone. Its right-sized neck profile and two-way adjustable truss rod allow precise setup, while the compact design fits standard guitar cases. Available in three gloss finishes, this affordable bass delivers a meaty P-bass tone with versatile tone shaping capabilities.
Buyer's Guide
A cheap bass guitar can be an excellent starting point for music enthusiasts on a budget, offering quality sound without breaking the bank. Understanding key factors will help you find a bass that suits your needs and style.
Key Specifications
Cheaper bass guitars still offer essential features like a solid wood body (commonly maple or alder), rosewood or maple fingerboard, and a bolt-on neck construction. Pay attention to the scale length (typically 34" or 35") and neck shape (commonly C or D profile) that matches your playing style.
pickup and Electronics
A single-coil pickup is standard for budget basses, delivering clear, bright tones ideal for various musical genres. Some entry-level basses feature active pickups with volume and tone controls, though passive pickups are more common at this price point.
Construction Quality
Look for a bass with a solid, well-finished body with minimal warping or unevenness. The neck should fit snugly into the body joint, and all hardware (screws, tuners) should be securely fastened. Quality control often varies between manufacturers, so examine the workmanship closely.
Comfort and Playability
While cheaper basses may not offer premium features like graphite necks or adjustable truss rods, the overall feel should be comfortable. The bass should play in tune across all strings, and fretwork should be smooth with minimal buzzing. Consider trying before buying if possible, or seek detailed reviews focusing on playability.
FAQ
What's the best cheap bass guitar?
Choosing the best cheap bass guitar depends on your specific needs and budget. Popular options under $500 include the Yamaha TB11, Epiphone Les Paul Bass, and Squier Precision Bass. These models offer decent build quality and playability for beginners and budget-conscious players.
Consider features like neck type (short-scale or full-size), pickguard quality, and finish durability when making your selection. Higher-priced models often offer better build materials and craftsmanship, so evaluate your budget against these factors.
Are cheaper basses harder to play?
Cheaper basses can feel different to play due to variations in neck angle, component quality, and overall construction. Most budget models are designed with similar playing characteristics to their more expensive counterparts, but you might notice slight differences in feel and responsiveness.
It's important to try before you buy, especially if you have specific playing preferences. Some players find entry-level basses perfectly comfortable, while others may need to spend more to find their ideal playability.
How durable are budget bass guitars?
Budget bass guitars typically use quality components and construction methods that can handle regular use. Brands like Yamaha, Epiphone, and Squier have established reputations for producing durable, reliable instruments at affordable prices.
While professional-grade instruments often offer superior build quality, budget models are usually resistant to minor wear and tear. Proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and protection from extreme conditions, will help extend the life of your instrument.
What should I look for in a beginner bass?
For beginners, focus on models with comfortable neck profiles, well-located pickups, and straightforward electronics. Features like volume controls, pickup selector switches, and bridge designs are important for sound customization but may be overwhelming for new players.
Consider the type of music you want to play and your intended practice schedule. Short-scale basses may be easier to play for smaller hands, while full-size models offer more traditional bass response and playability.
Can I upgrade parts on a cheap bass?
Many budget basses allow you to upgrade individual parts like pickups, strings, and hardware. This customization capability is a significant advantage of more affordable instruments, as it allows you to improve your bass's sound and playability over time.
However, some budget instruments have proprietary parts that make modifications more complicated or expensive. Research your specific model to determine which components can be upgraded and whether the improvements will significantly enhance your bass's performance.
What maintenance do budget basses need?
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping any bass in good condition. Basic care includes cleaning the instrument weekly, checking and adjusting the neck's truss rod monthly, and oiling the tuners bi-annually. The pickguard should be vacuumed regularly, and the surface should be protected from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.
Inspect the frets for wear every six months and have them dressed or replaced when necessary. The bridge should be checked for stability, and the strings should be changed every two to four months depending on your playing frequency and style.
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