If you’re on a budget, but still want classic Fender Telecaster twang, then the Squier Telecaster will fit you well. It was designed for just such musicians working on a budget or the hobbyist who wants something else to play, but does not need high end accessories.

You can get a hold of one of these babies for around $170 online, and probably something similarly priced at your local guitar store. It should be noted that you can get a made in Mexico Fender Tele for about $399 so if you can afford the extra bit you may want to go that route, but in my opinion, unless you are just name shopping there is no need. Obviously if you want something more top end you will go with the USA made Fender Telecaster, and I can understand that for those wanting the best quality and craftsmanship.

Don’t let the cheap price fool you though, if you closed your eyes and played this Squier you would be hard pressed to notice the difference. Sure there is a bit of a difference, and the Fender will sound better, but how much better for the money is the key here at this price point. This guitar overall has a good feel and the fit and finish are good. Mileage does tends to vary more widely on cheaper guitars so if possible give yours a good once over, checking the frets etc to make sure everything is in seated correctly.

The neck is more of a c shape, and the frets could be polished a little better, but it’s not something that you can not handle on your own. I had good luck on mine with no buzzing frets. The action was low the way I like it, but of course you can adjust this to your taste. The guitar came factory with .09’s strings. Overall the neck is quick, the balance was nice, and I didn’t break my back carrying it around.

The sound from the stock pickups was actually pretty good, but if you’re not like the sound, you can easily swap them out later for something better. I play through a Fender Hot Rod and it puts out great tone at this price point.

The value of the guitar is where this one really shines. You will have a hard time finding a better guitar sub $200 dollars.  Mine was made in China as are most Affinity series Squier Telys. I was suprised by the build quality of mine, but again this is a your mileage may vary sort of thing, especially in this price range.

Overall the features are great. This guitar is a perfect working musicians companion, and I would not be afraid to lay some tracks down with it either. The tuners are actually pretty good as well, and mine seemed to stay in tune pretty well.

In the end you can not go wrong with this guitar if you’re on a budget, but don’t want a budget sound check out the Squier Telecaster. You will be glad you did.