Finding the ideal guitar, especially when you’re on a budget, can be tricky. Even more so if you’re new to or not that familiar with guitars.
Jackson as a brand are a great starting point for a beginner or for the more experienced looking for a metal/rock/shred guitar. But with a huge lineup of models its hard to know which is best or right for your needs.
So as a guitarist with over two decades of experience I’ve been lucky enough to play numerous Jackson’s. And I’ve produced this guide to help if you’re searching for the best Jackson guitar under $500.
It will take you through the best options, helping you find the perfect match for whatever you want, whether you’re into metal, rock or any other genre.
Best Jackson Guitars Under $500
1. Best Overall: Jackson JS22 Dinky – A top choice for its playability, versatile sound, and affordability. Perfect for various musical genres, the JS22 Dinky offers a comfortable playing experience without breaking the bank.
2. Best for Beginners: Jackson JS1X Dinky Minion – An excellent starter guitar with a smaller scale, making it easier for beginners to handle. Despite its size it delivers a good sound typical of Jackson guitars.
3. Best for Metal: Jackson JS32T Rhoads – Ideal for metal heads, the JS32T boasts a distinct Rhoads body shape, high-output pickups and a fast neck, all contributing to its heavy, aggressive sound.
4. Best Value for Money: Jackson JS Series King V JS32 – This model offers great value with its iconic King V shape, dual high-output humbuckers and a bound fingerboard, making it a visually and musically appealing option.
5. Best for Rock: Jackson JS32 Dinky Arch Top – Its arched top, compound-radius fretboard and powerful pickups make it a great choice for rock guitarists looking for a good mix of comfort and aggressive tone.
Jackson JS22 Dinky – Best Overall
The Jackson JS22 Dinky is a prime example of affordability meeting quality. Renowned for its comfortable neck, high-quality materials and versatile sound, it’s a great choice for both beginners and experienced players. The humbucker pickups at the bridge and neck deliver a wide range of tones suitable for various genres. Its sleek design and solid build quality make it a standout guitar in the under $500 category.
Pros:
- Affordable yet high-quality construction.
- Versatile sound, suitable for various genres.
- Comfortable neck for easy playability.
- Dual humbucker pickups for a wide range of tones.
- Sleek, professional looking design.
Cons:
- Lacks advanced features like a Floyd Rose tremolo.
- Pickups may not provide the highest output for heavier metal tones.
- Basic electronics and hardware might require upgrading for serious players.
Jackson JS1X Dinky Minion – Best for Beginners
The JS1X Dinky Minion is perfectly tailored for beginners, especially those with smaller hands or younger players. Its 2/3-scale length eases playability and the high-output pickups provide the signature Jackson sound. This guitar doesn’t just cater to novices but also serves as a great travel guitar for seasoned players.
Pros:
- Smaller scale, perfect for beginners or younger players.
- Easy to handle, especially for those with smaller hands.
- Delivers a solid sound typical of Jackson guitars.
- Lightweight, making it a great travel guitar.
- Affordable entry-level option.
Cons:
- Limited range of tones compared to full-scale models.
- The smaller size might not suit players with larger hands.
- Not ideal for advanced or professional musicians.
- May need upgrades over time as the player progresses.
Jackson JS32T Rhoads – Best for Metal
For metal guitarists the Jackson JS32T Rhoads is a dream. Inspired by the legendary Randy Rhoads it features a unique V-shaped body, two high-output humbuckers, and a fast-playing maple neck. This guitar is built for shredding and heavy riffs, offering both an aggressive look and sound.
Pros:
- High-output humbucker pickups designed for heavy metal.
- Iconic Rhoads body shape offers a great look.
- Fast-playing maple neck ideal for shredding.
- Great for heavy, aggressive tones with thick distortion.
- Solid build and durable for live performances.
Cons:
- V-shaped body can be uncomfortable for seated playing.
- No tremolo system, limiting certain playing styles.
- The aggressive design might not suit other genres beyond metal.
Jackson JS Series King V JS32 – Best Value for Money
The King V JS32 stands out in the Jackson line for its striking design and excellent features at an affordable price. The guitar’s dual high-output pickups and Floyd Rose tremolo system make it versatile for various playing styles, offering great value for its price.
Pros:
- Striking King V shape, making a visual statement.
- Dual high-output humbuckers for a strong and versatile tone.
- Floyd Rose tremolo system for dive bombs and pitch manipulation.
- Great balance between price and features.
- Suitable for various playing styles, from metal to rock.
Cons:
- Floyd Rose tremolo can be tricky for beginners to set up and maintain.
- Larger body shape may not be comfortable for all players.
- Stock pickups might not satisfy more experienced players.
Jackson JS32 Dinky Arch Top – Best for Rock
The JS32 Dinky with an arch top is a fantastic choice for rock guitarists. It offers a comfortable playing experience thanks to its compound-radius fretboard, which flattens out toward the higher frets, and the high-output pickups provide a powerful, clear tone suitable for rock and beyond.
Pros:
- Compound-radius fretboard for smooth playability across the neck.
- Arched top adds to the guitar’s appealing look.
- High-output pickups provide a powerful, clear rock tone.
- Comfortable for both rhythm and lead playing.
- Great for rock but versatile enough for other genres.
Cons:
- Lacks a tremolo system, limiting whammy bar techniques.
- Pickups may not have the aggression needed for extreme metal.
- The design might not appeal to players outside rock genres.
Choosing a Jackson guitar under $500 doesn’t mean compromising on quality or sound. Each of these guitars offers a unique set of features that cater to different playing styles and preferences.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, Jackson without a doubt provides exceptional options within this price range. Hopefully the guitars featured here have helped you to find the right one.
