Should You Buy a Squier or Fender Guitar When Starting Out?

When you’re starting your guitar journey, picking the right guitar can feel like a huge decision. You’ve got your eyes on that classic Stratocaster shape or the smooth curves of a Telecaster, but then you see the price tags. Fender, a legendary name in the guitar world, looks amazing but expensive. On the other hand, there’s Squier—a brand by Fender with a much friendlier price tag.

So, which one should you choose? Should you spend big on a Fender or save some cash with a Squier? And most importantly, will the guitar you choose inspire you to pick it up and practice when progress feels slow? Let’s dive in.

Why the Guitar You Choose Matters

When you’re learning guitar, it’s not just about playing chords and scales—it’s about feeling inspired. The right guitar makes you want to play. It makes you feel like a rockstar, even if all you know is “Smoke on the Water.” That’s why choosing between a Squier and a Fender is such a big deal.

Both guitars can give you the vibe, but each has its pros and cons. What you choose will depend on your budget, goals, and what feels good in your hands.

What’s the Difference Between Squier and Fender?

Here’s a quick breakdown to help you understand what you’re looking at:

Fender

• Fender guitars are the real deal—designed for pros and built with high-quality materials.

• They’re made in the USA or Mexico, which means you’re paying for craftsmanship.

• Expect better pickups, smoother necks, and a more premium feel overall.

• Price: Fender guitars start around £600 and go up… and up… and up.

Squier

• Squier is Fender’s budget-friendly brand, designed for beginners and players on a budget.

• Made in Asia, Squier guitars use cheaper materials and hardware, but they’re still solid instruments.

• They’ve got the classic Fender vibe without the hefty price tag.

• Price: You can grab a Squier for as little as £150, with higher-end models (Squier Classic Vibe series) hitting around £400.

Should You Buy a Squier?

If you’re a beginner, yes! Squier guitars are affordable, reliable, and perfect for learning. Models like the Squier Affinity Stratocaster or Telecaster are great for starting out. They look and feel like their Fender counterparts, and they’re perfect for learning your first riffs and chords.

Here’s why a Squier might be the right choice:

1. Budget-Friendly: Let’s face it—learning guitar isn’t just about buying the guitar. You’ll also need an amp, a strap, picks, and maybe some lessons. A Squier leaves room in your budget for the extras.

2. Decent Quality: Squier has improved a lot over the years. While the materials aren’t as fancy as Fender’s, the guitars still sound and feel good enough for most beginners.

3. Less Pressure: If you’re just starting out, you don’t need a £1,000 guitar. With a Squier, you can focus on learning without worrying about dinging up a pricey instrument.

Should You Buy a Fender?

If you’re serious about guitar and have a bigger budget, a Fender might be worth it. It’s an investment, but it’ll last you a lifetime if you take care of it. Fender guitars are built with better materials, which means they stay in tune longer, feel smoother to play, and sound amazing.

Here’s why you might go for a Fender:

1. Superior Quality: Everything from the wood to the electronics is higher quality. If you’re aiming to play gigs or record, a Fender might be the better choice.

2. Resale Value: Fender guitars hold their value much better than Squiers. If you decide to sell it later, you’ll get a good chunk of your money back.

3. Feel and Playability: A Fender just feels… well, like a Fender. The necks are smoother, the frets are more polished, and the sound is richer.

What’s More Important Than the Guitar?

The truth is, whether you choose a Squier or a Fender, what really matters is how much you practice. A guitar—no matter the price tag—won’t play itself. You could have the most expensive Fender, but if it sits in the corner gathering dust, it won’t make you a better player.

Here’s a little secret: even pros can make a cheap Squier sound amazing because they’ve put in the time. Your progress isn’t about the brand on the headstock—it’s about how much time you spend learning, practicing, and playing.

Tips to Stay Inspired When You’re Stuck

1. Play Your Favourite Songs: Whether it’s “Wonderwall” or “Enter Sandman,” learning songs you love will keep you motivated.

2. Set Small Goals: Instead of trying to master the guitar overnight, aim for smaller wins, like nailing a chord change or learning a simple riff.

3. Listen to Your Favourite Guitarists: Hearing the players who inspire you—whether it’s Jimi Hendrix, John Mayer, or Taylor Swift—can remind you why you started.

4. Upgrade Later: If you start with a Squier and feel like it’s holding you back down the line, you can always upgrade to a Fender later.

The Verdict: Squier or Fender?

For most beginners, a Squier is the perfect starting point. It’s affordable, reliable, and gives you everything you need to start learning. Plus, when progress feels slow, you won’t feel guilty about spending too much on an instrument.

But if you’re ready to invest in a lifetime instrument and can stretch your budget, a Fender is worth considering. It’s the kind of guitar that will grow with you as you improve, and it’ll give you that iconic tone and feel from day one.

Final Thoughts

The most important thing is to choose a guitar that makes you want to play. Whether it’s a Squier or a Fender, find one that feels good in your hands and inspires you to pick it up every day.

Because here’s the truth: the guitar you love is the guitar you’ll play. And the more you play, the better you’ll get. So don’t stress too much about the brand—focus on the music, and let your guitar journey unfold.

FAQs About Guitar Lessons with Ben Makes Music

What is Ben Makes Music?
Ben Makes Music provides guitar lessons for all levels across Essex, including Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge, and surrounding areas.

What types of guitar lessons are available?
Lessons cover a range of styles, including rock, blues, classical, and more. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced player, there’s a lesson for you!

How do I book a lesson?
Booking a lesson is simple! Contact us online or by phone to arrange your guitar lessons in Essex, including Rayleigh, Hockley, Hullbridge, and beyond.

Are online lessons available?
Yes! High-quality online guitar lessons are available for students in Essex and beyond.

Are the lessons suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Whether you're in Hockley, Leigh-on-Sea, or elsewhere, step-by-step guidance is provided to help you get started on your guitar journey.

Where can I take lessons?
Guitar lessons are available in the following locations across Essex:

Guitar Lessons in Rayleigh

Guitar Lessons in Hockley

Guitar Lessons in Hullbridge

Guitar Lessons in Wickford

Guitar Lessons in South Woodham Ferrers

Guitar Lessons in Leigh-on-Sea

Guitar Lessons in Eastwood

Guitar Lessons in Benfleet

Guitar Lessons in Basildon

Guitar Lessons in Thundersley

Guitar Lessons in Rochford

Why choose Ben Makes Music?
Each lesson is personalised to meet your goals, ensuring fast progress and a fun, engaging learning experience.

Are guitar lessons worth it?
Definitely! Personalised feedback helps you progress faster than relying on free resources.

Can I try a lesson first?
Yes! Book a trial lesson to see if the approach works for you before committing.

Let’s get started on your guitar journey!