This Factory Special Run Affinity Strat is a gateway to the Fender world at a price that makes sense for beginners and budget-conscious players. The HSS pickup configuration -- humbucker in the bridge, single-coils in the middle and neck -- gives you more tonal range than a standard Strat, handling heavier rock and metal tones on the bridge while still delivering classic Strat cleans and quack in positions 2 through 5. The natural finish with white pickguard has a clean, organic look.

Squier has gotten remarkably good at making affordable guitars that actually play well. The thin, lightweight body is comfortable for long practice sessions, the slim C-neck fits most hand sizes, and the laurel fingerboard plays smoothly. For a first guitar, a modding platform, or an affordable backup, the Affinity Strat HSS punches well above what you'd expect at this price.