Choosing a left handed electric guitar is easier when you start with how you want to play. Think about the sound you like, how a guitar feels against your body, and whether the neck feels comfortable in your hand. Then compare models that fit.

At Southpaw Guitars, every guitar is built for left-handed players. Our broader inventory includes more than 900 left-handed guitars, and our electric selection includes familiar shapes from Fender, Gibson and PRS. Here’s how the most popular styles compare, and what to consider before you buy.

At a glance: which guitar fits your needs?

Model A good place to start if you want…
Fender Player II Stratocaster A comfortable shape and a wide range of classic single-coil sounds
Fender Player II Telecaster A straightforward, punchy guitar with a fixed bridge
Gibson Les Paul A solid, substantial feel and classic humbucker sound
Gibson SG Gibson-style humbucker character in a lighter-feeling, double-cutaway shape
PRS A modern design that can cover a range of musical styles

These are useful starting points, not hard rules. Pickups and other details can vary between versions, so check the individual listing before you order.

Fender Player II Stratocaster: versatile and comfortable

The Stratocaster is a popular all-round choice for good reason. Its contoured body sits comfortably against many players, and its three-pickup layout gives you several distinct sounds to explore. You can move from a clear, bright tone to something rounder and fuller by changing pickup position and adjusting your amp.

A Strat is worth trying if you play a mix of blues, pop, rock, funk or indie, or if you want one guitar to grow with you. Its tremolo bridge is useful for pitch effects, though players who prefer a fixed bridge may find a Telecaster simpler.

The feel matters as much as the sound. Try the guitar seated and standing, and pay attention to whether the body and controls feel natural in a left-handed playing position.

Fender Player II Stratocaster in white with a rosewood fingerboard

Explore left-handed Fender Player II Stratocasters.

Fender Player II Telecaster: direct, punchy and simple

The Telecaster offers a different take on the Fender sound. Its familiar two-pickup layout makes it easy to get started: the bridge position is often prized for its bright attack, while the neck position gives you a smoother contrast. The fixed bridge keeps the setup straightforward.

A Tele is a strong option for country, roots, blues, rock and rhythm playing, but it’s not limited to those styles. It can be a dependable everyday guitar for players who value a direct feel and don’t need a tremolo.

Compared with the Strat, the Tele’s body is less contoured. That difference may feel minor, or important, depending on your posture and how the guitar rests against you. If you can, try both back-to-back.

Left-handed Fender Telecaster shown from the back

Shop left-handed Fender electric guitars to see which Telecaster models are available.

Gibson Les Paul: a substantial feel and humbucker sound

The Les Paul is a familiar choice for players who want a fuller, thicker humbucker sound. Its solid, substantial body and traditional design appeal to blues, rock, heavier styles and players who like a guitar that feels planted.

Before choosing one, consider weight and comfort. A Les Paul can feel heavier than the other styles in this guide, and the body shape may feel different from a contoured Fender. If you play long sets while standing, try it with a strap. Also check how easily you can reach the frets you use most.

Gibson models vary, so don’t assume every Les Paul has exactly the same neck feel, pickups or features. Compare the specific guitar you’re considering.

Left-handed Gibson Les Paul in a gold finish

Browse left-handed electric guitars, including Les Paul options when available.

Gibson SG: Gibson character in a different shape

The SG is another classic humbucker-equipped choice, with a thinner, double-cutaway body shape. Many players consider it when they want a lighter-feeling alternative to a Les Paul or value access to the higher frets.

The trade-off is personal comfort. The shape and balance feel different from a Les Paul, and what works for one player may not suit another. Try it both seated and standing, and notice whether your picking arm and fretting hand stay relaxed.

As with the Les Paul, check the exact model. Features and neck profiles can change across versions.

Left-handed Gibson SG Standard in ebony

See left-handed Gibson SG options.

PRS: a modern, flexible option

PRS makes several left-handed electric models, so check the exact version rather than assuming every PRS shares the same setup. A model such as the SE Custom 24 is worth a look if you like a modern double-cutaway design and want a humbucker-equipped guitar for varied styles.

The feel and sound depend on the individual model’s neck, pickups and controls. If you’re comparing PRS with Fender or Gibson, focus on the guitar in front of you: how the neck sits in your hand, whether the controls are easy to use, and how it sounds through an amp you know.

Left-handed PRS SE Custom 24 in a blue finish

View the left-handed PRS SE Custom 24 listing. Availability changes, so check the current listing.

What to compare before you choose

1. Body shape and balance

A guitar can sound great and still feel awkward after a few songs. Check how the body rests against you, whether it feels comfortable sitting down, and whether it stays balanced on a strap. Don’t judge comfort from a product photo.

2. Pickup sound

As a broad guide, Fender Stratocasters and Telecasters are associated with single-coil sounds, while Les Pauls and SGs are commonly associated with humbuckers. PRS offers different pickup configurations depending on the model. Compare the sound you want, but remember that your amp, playing style and effects all shape your tone.

3. Neck feel

Pay attention to how your thumb sits, how easily you move between chords, and whether reaching across the fretboard feels natural. Neck shape is personal. If you shop online, read the specific product details and contact us with questions about an individual guitar.

4. Budget and the whole setup

Set a budget before you browse, then leave room for essentials such as a strap, cable, picks or a case if needed. Prices vary by brand, model and condition. Check the current product listing for the exact price and what’s included.

Try one in Houston or shop online

If you’re near Houston, visit our showroom at 5813 Bellaire Blvd and compare a few shapes in person. Bring a song you know, or simply play a few familiar chords. Our team can help you compare options without assuming you already know every guitar term.

Shopping from elsewhere? Browse our left-handed electric guitar collection. We focus exclusively on left-handed instruments, and our selection gives you more to compare than a typical store’s small lefty section. If you want help narrowing down your options, contact Southpaw Guitars before ordering.

Find the right left-handed electric guitar for you

There isn’t one best left handed electric guitar for every player. Start with the body shape and pickup sound you prefer, then compare neck feel, comfort and budget. A Strat, Tele, Les Paul, SG or PRS can each be the right choice when it fits the way you play.

Ready to look? Shop left-handed guitars for sale at Southpaw Guitars, or come try a few in Houston. Availability changes, so check the current listings or get in touch if you have a particular model in mind.

— Jim Duncan