Which model of Telecaster is the best value?
If you didn’t already know, the Fender Telecaster is one of the most versatile solid body electric guitars on the market. The classic original 1952 Fender Telecaster came in a Butterscotch finish and with a black pickguard. Similar to other guitar models, you can find a Telecaster at so many different price points; from their budget line of guitars called Squier and the way to the Fender Custom Shop series. Recently I’ve was fortunate enough to get my hands on three similar looking Butterscotch Telecaster models. I took all three guitars and reviewed them individually, and then compared them side by side in a giant three way comparison.
So let’s talk about the three Telecasters that I have chosen, from lowest price to highest price. With a quick glance of the photo of all three, they almost appear to be the same guitar. We’ll first talk about the specs of each guitar and then get into some more detailed comparisons. Here are the three Telecaster models that we will be comparing:
Squier Affinity Telecaster
Squier Classic Vibe '50s Telecaster
Fender Player Telecaster
Squier Affinity Telecaster
One of the most affordable models is the Squier Affinity Telecaster by Fender. It is part of Fender's Squier line of guitars that are aimed at people looking to get something in a lower price range. This model is designed by Fender and manufactured in Indonesia. In my video I walk through all the guitar specs and features, take a close look at the hardware, and then get into hearing some guitar tones. I even take the guitar apart to have a deep dive inside the components under the pickguard.
Here is a summary of the specs for the Squier Affinity Telecaster
Poplar Body with Gloss Polyurethane Finish
Slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile. 9.5” radius. 21 Medium Jumbo Frets
Dual single-coil Tele pickups
6-saddle Tele bridge
Sealed die-cast tuning machines
Satin neck finish
You can buy the Squier Affinity at these online shops:
SQUIER CLASSIC VIBE '50S TELECASTER
A step up in the Squier line is the Classic Vibe series Telecaster. It is part of Fender's Squire line of guitars that are aimed at people looking to get something in a lower price range and featuring vintage style 50’s specs.This model is designed by Fender and manufactured in China. Again in my video I do a thorough walkthrough and tone demo.
Here is a summary of the specs for the Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Telecaster:
Pine Body with Gloss Polyurethane Finish
Slim and comfortable “C”-shaped neck profile. 9.5” radius. 21 Narrow Tall Frets
Inspired by 1950s-era Telecaster Models
Fender-Designed alnico pickups
Vintage-tint gloss neck finish
Nickel-plated hardware
You can buy the Squier Classic Vibe ‘50s Telecaster at the online shops:
Fender Player Telecaster
And if you were looking to spend a little bit more money, I would recommend the Fender Player Series. They are very comparable to the higher prices American made models. In 2018 Fender released a refreshed Made in Mexico line to replace the Standard series. It is now called the Player Series. I've got my hands on the Butterscotch model and it's been great! In my video I go over all the pros and cons and tone demos of this beautiful guitar.
Here is a summary of the specs for the Fender Player Telecaster:
Alder body with Gloss Polyester Finish
Player Series Alnico 5 Tele® Single-Coil Pickups
“Modern C"-shaped neck profile. Satin Urethane Finish on Back, Gloss Urethane Finish on Front
9.5"-radius fingerboard. 22 Medium Jumbo Frets
String-through-body bridge with block steel saddles
You can buy the Player Telecaster at these online shops:
Even after watching videos about guitars, I always recommend getting them into your own hands so you can feel them for yourself. That’s not always an option for everyone, but if it is, take my advice. The most important part of a guitar in my opinion is how the neck feels in my hands. You really have to feel different necks to appreciate the differences that exist. The tones are important, but pickups can be changed and the tone can depend on what type of amplifier is being used.
Maybe even after watching videos about each guitar, you still can’t decide. So I’ve gathered all three and put them into a super detailed comparison video, comparing all aspects of each model. Hopefully this helps you decide if any of these models are right for you!
