Is it better to buy a used guitar instead of new?

Is used always a bargain?

Most people assume new means fewer problems. That’s a mistake. A well-kept used guitar can save you $200–$800 and still play like new.

Will a used guitar hold value?

Some guitars lose 30–50% off retail quickly. Others, especially vintage or limited items, can stay close to retail or even climb in value. Look for solid build, original parts, and no major repairs.

What should you check in person?

Check the neck straightness, the frets for wear, and the electronics for crackles. Tap the wood to hear dead spots. Measure string action: under 3 mm at the 12th fret for electrics is normal; 2–3 mm for acoustics is common. If a guitar needs a new set of frets or a neck reset, expect $200–$600 in shop bills.

Quick scorecard: buy vs new (use this on the floor)

• Sound: 8/10 or higher for used = go further.

• Cosmetic: under 20% finish wear = acceptable.

• Playability: action under 4 mm = pass.

• Electronics: no crackle and pots smooth = pass.

• Price gap: used is 20–50% cheaper than new = good value.

When is new the smarter choice?

New is best if you want a full warranty, brand-new setup, or the latest features. If you must have flawless cosmetics or a factory warranty for 1–3 years, factor an extra $100–$500 into your budget for new gear. New also helps if you plan to resell quickly and need that paper trail and original receipts.

Micro-moment: the shop test that decides it

You pick up a used Tele-style guitar in a local shop. It looks rough but sounds clear. After a quick test, the neck is straight and frets score 8/10 on feel. You negotiate $350 off the new price and walk out with a great instrument.

How to haggle and avoid red flags

Ask about repairs, who did them, and if parts are original. Watch for heavy fret wear, a warped neck, replaced neck joints, or mismatched wood grain—these are red flags. Test pickups, knobs, and the jack while plugged into an amp. If the seller can’t let you plug in, treat that as a 50% haircut on the asking price.

Should you buy used from a pawnshop?

Pawnshops can have clean, tested guitars at 20–60% off new prices. Use a prep checklist before you buy: bring a tuner, a pick, and a small flashlight. Ask for a short play-test period and any shop warranty. Stop by A-1 Trade & Loan on Commercial Drive— everything on the floor has been tested and priced to move.

Final quick answers

Buying used is often better if you want value and character. New is better for warranty and zero-risk condition. If you find a used guitar that scores well on the checklist and saves $200 or more, it’s usually the smart buy.

One slow pass across every fret can save you from a repair bill that kills the deal.

Today’s takeaway: A used guitar that passes a quick play test and saves you a few hundred dollars is often the better choice.