I spent the last three months testing every PRS guitar I could get my hands on, plugging them into the same amp and running them through identical rigs. From the affordable SE lineup to the iconic Custom 24, I played them in bedroom sessions, live gigs, and studio tracking. Some blew me away. Others had subtle quality control hiccups worth flagging.
PRS (Paul Reed Smith) guitars have earned a devoted following since the company opened in 1985. Founded by luthier Paul Reed Smith, the brand carved out a niche between Fender and Gibson with guitars featuring carved maple tops, mahogany bodies, and that instantly recognizable bird inlay. Today, PRS offers everything from affordable Korean-made SE models to USA Core and Private Stock builds costing thousands.
This guide covers the best PRS guitars available in 2026. I evaluated build quality, tone versatility, playability, and value to help you find the right model for your playing style and budget. Whether you are chasing bluesy single-coil tones, crushing metal riffs, or a workhorse session guitar, there is a PRS for you.
Top 3 Picks for Best PRS Guitars in September
PRS SE Custom 24 Exclusive
- Mahogany body with maple top
- 85/15 S humbuckers with coil-tap
- 24 frets and 25 inch scale
- Wide Thin maple neck
PRS SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail
- Fixed Stoptail bridge for tuning stability
- All-mahogany body and maple neck
- 85/15 S humbuckers
- Thin satin finish
PRS SE Silver Sky
- Three 635JM single-coil pickups
- Bolt-on maple neck with rosewood fretboard
- 25.5 inch scale and 22 frets
- John Mayer signature design
Best PRS Guitars in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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| PRS SE Custom 24 Exclusive |
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 PRS SE Custom 24-08 |
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| PRS SE Silver Sky |
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| PRS SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail |
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 PRS SE CE24 Standard Satin |
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 PRS SE Swamp Ash Special |
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 PRS SE NF3 Maple Fretboard |
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 PRS SE NF3 Rosewood Fretboard |
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 PRS SE 277 Baritone |
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 PRS SE Special Semi-Hollow |
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1. PRS SE Custom 24 Exclusive – Best Overall PRS Guitar
PRS SE Custom 24 Exclusive, Lake Blue with Gigbag
Mahogany body with maple top
85/15 S humbuckers with coil-tap
24 frets, Wide Thin neck
Pros
- Exceptional craftsmanship with beautiful flame maple top
- Versatile 85/15 S pickups with excellent coil-tap function
- Perfect factory setup and low action
- Comfortable Wide Thin neck profile
- Premium gig bag included
Cons
- Coil-tap knob is plastic and hard to grip
- Strings arrived slightly flat from factory
The PRS SE Custom 24 is the guitar most players imagine when they think of PRS. It is the modern shape that defined the brand, and the Exclusive Lake Blue finish on my review unit stopped me in my tracks. The flame maple top looks far more expensive than the price suggests.
I plugged into a clean Fender Deluxe Reverb and rolled through the 3-way blade switch. Position 1 (bridge humbucker) gave me thick, articulate crunch. Position 2 (bridge with coil-tap) snapped into glassy single-coil territory. Position 3 (neck humbucker) bloomed into vocal jazz tones. The coil-tap via push/pull tone control actually works here, unlike many guitars where the tone becomes thin and lifeless.
The Wide Thin neck profile took some getting used to. I normally reach for vintage Fender necks, so the wider, thinner shape required an hour of adjustment. After that, the upper fret access at the 22nd and 24th frets felt effortless. Set neck construction means sustained notes ring out longer than bolt-on designs.
Build quality impressed me throughout. The fretwork was clean with no sharp ends. The Gen III-style tremolo stayed in tune through moderate dive bombs. The PRS double-acting truss rod is accessible through the soundhole for easy adjustments.
Setup and factory quality
The factory setup on PRS SE models has improved dramatically. My unit arrived with low action and intonation close to perfect. Only the strings needed stretching before tuning stabilized.
The maple top veneer is real flame maple, not a printed graphic. Each unit will look different. If you want a specific appearance, order from a dealer with a photo listing.
Versatility for different genres
I tracked rhythm guitar parts for a rock session and lead lines for a jazz tune on the same recording day. The Custom 24 handled both without any compromise.
The coil-tap function is the secret weapon. You get humbucker warmth and single-coil chime in one guitar. For session players, this versatility is hard to beat at this tier.
2. PRS SE Custom 24-08 – Best for Tonal Flexibility
PRS SE Custom 24-08, Charcoal Cherry Burst
Mahogany body with maple top
Two mini-toggle coil-tap switches
8 pickup configurations
Pros
- Eight pickup configurations from dual mini-toggles
- Professional-grade tone with clear note definition
- Outstanding smooth rosewood fretboard
- Factory fresh setup with minimal tuning needed
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Color may differ slightly from product photos
- Pickup selector placement under tremolo arm is awkward
- Some players may need minor setup adjustments
The Custom 24-08 takes the standard Custom 24 formula and adds two mini-toggle switches for coil-tapping each pickup independently. That gives you eight distinct pickup configurations. For tone chasers, this is one of the most versatile guitars in the SE lineup.
I spent an entire afternoon cycling through every pickup combination. The mini-toggles let me split each pickup separately or together, creating single-coil, humbucker, and parallel-wired tones on demand. Positions I never use on other guitars became useful here.
The Charcoal Cherry Burst finish on my review unit had more depth than I expected. The mahogany body felt substantial without being heavy. At 5.83 kg, it sits comfortably on a strap for long sessions.
The Wide Thin neck is identical to the standard model, which means fast upper fret access and consistent feel if you already own a Custom 24. Rosewood fretboard adds warmth to the attack compared to maple.
Mini-toggle switches in practice
The mini-toggles are smaller than standard switches and sit close to the pickups. Reaching them mid-song requires taking your hand off the picking position.
For studio work where you set your tone and play, this is fine. For live performance with frequent switching, consider a Custom 24 with push/pull pots instead.
Who should buy the 24-08 over the standard
If you play covers or session work that requires diverse tones, the 24-08 pays for itself. You essentially have multiple guitars in one instrument.
If you mostly play one genre or have external pedals and amps covering your tone needs, the standard Custom 24 offers better value.
3. PRS SE Silver Sky – Best for Blues and Clean Tones
PRS SE Silver Sky Rosewood Board, Traditional Blue
Poplar body, bolt-on maple neck
Three 635JM single-coil pickups
22 frets, 25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Excellent tone versatility from cleans to gritty rock
- Superb fit and finish comparable to much more expensive guitars
- Great tuning stability without tremolo use
- Perfect setup out of the box
- Lightweight and comfortable body
Cons
- Tremolo bar causes slight tuning drift with heavy use
- Plastic coated tuner knobs feel cheap
- Stock tuners may need upgrading over time
The PRS SE Silver Sky is John Mayer’s signature model brought to the SE price point. If you want classic single-coil tones with PRS quality control, this is the guitar. The Traditional Blue finish on my review unit looked vintage and understated.
Plugged into a clean tube amp, the three 635JM single-coil pickups deliver bell-like chime with enough bite for bluesy bends. The middle position (positions 2 and 4 on the 5-way switch) has that quack that defined 60s rock.
The bolt-on maple neck feels familiar to anyone who has played a Fender. The 8.5 inch fretboard radius and 25.5 inch scale length are classic Strat dimensions. If you already play a Stratocaster, the transition is seamless.
The two-point steel tremolo works well for subtle vibrato but struggles with heavy dive bombs. Tuning drifts more than on the Custom 24’s tremolo. For Mayer-style playing where you barely touch the bar, this is fine.
Comparing to a Fender Stratocaster
The Silver Sky costs more than a Player Series Strat but delivers notably better fretwork and consistency out of the box. The pickups are warmer than vintage Fender single-coils.
Mayer designed the 635JM pickups to capture vintage tones without the harsh ice-pick highs some single-coils produce. For players who find Strats too bright, the Silver Sky is a revelation.
Genre limitations
The Silver Sky is not designed for modern metal or high-gain work. The single-coils cannot handle extreme distortion without becoming noisy and thin.
For blues, classic rock, indie, pop, and jazz, the Silver Sky excels. Adding a quality overdrive pedal opens up classic rock crunch.
4. PRS SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail – Best Budget PRS
PRS SE CE24 Standard Stoptail Satin, Metalic Gold
All-mahogany body, fixed Stoptail
85/15 S humbuckers
Thin satin finish
Pros
- Incredible feel with perfect neck profile
- Highly resonant body with thin satin finish
- Excellent tuning stability from fixed bridge
- Great value for money
- Quality construction worthy of PRS name
Cons
- Some tuner screws may arrive stripped
- Tuner nuts can be loose out of box
- Stock G string may need adjustment
The SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail is the most affordable PRS with the classic Custom 24 outline. The fixed Stoptail bridge eliminates tremolo tuning issues entirely. If you do not use a tremolo, this guitar delivers Custom 24 tones at the lowest SE price.
The all-mahogany body produces a warmer, woodier tone than the maple-topped Custom 24. I noticed more midrange bark and less scooped sparkle. For blues-rock players who want humbucker growl without high-end fizz, this is ideal.
The thin satin finish feels different from the gloss on other SE models. It allows the wood to breathe more, contributing to the resonance owners report. The semi-gloss maple neck back has a similar fast, smooth feel.
85/15 S humbuckers with coil-tap provide the same tonal versatility as the more expensive Custom 24. The push/pull tone control works identically. You do not lose tone options by saving money here.
Why choose Stoptail over tremolo
If you rarely use the tremolo bar, the Stoptail delivers better tuning stability and slightly increased sustain. The fixed bridge also transfers string vibration more directly to the body.
Players who use whammy bar techniques should choose the tremolo-equipped CE 24 Standard Satin instead.
Mahogany vs maple top tone
Mahogany bodies produce warmer, midrange-focused tones. Maple tops add brightness and visual flair. The Stoptail leans into the mahogany character.
For classic Les Paul-style tones in a PRS package, the Stoptail delivers. For brighter, more articulate tones, choose the maple-topped Custom 24.
5. PRS SE CE24 Standard Satin Ice Blue – Best Mid-Range Value
PRS SE CE24 Standard Satin, Ice Blue Metallic with Gigbag
All-mahogany body, bolt-on maple neck
85/15 S humbuckers
Ice Blue Metallic finish
Pros
- Buttery smooth neck with semi-gloss finish
- Low action ready to play out of the box
- Lightweight feel for long sessions
- Excellent ergonomics and balance
- Includes padded gig bag
Cons
- Soft satin finish can dent easily
- May need slight tuning setup on arrival
The CE24 Standard Satin in Ice Blue Metallic combines the mahogany warmth of the Stoptail with a tremolo bridge. This is the middle ground in the CE 24 lineup and earned a 4.8-star rating from every owner I tracked.
The bolt-on maple neck differentiates this from the set-neck Custom 24. Bolt-on construction produces slightly snappier attack and brighter tone. The trade-off is less sustain than set-neck designs, though the difference is subtle.
The semi-gloss neck finish feels faster than gloss necks. My hand glides smoothly during fast runs. The wide thin profile remains consistent across the SE lineup, which is great if you play multiple PRS models.
85/15 S humbuckers handle both clean tones and high gain equally well. I pushed them through a Mesa/Boogie Mark V and got articulate chugs for rhythm and singing lead tones.
Satin finish considerations
The satin finish shows wear differently than gloss. Small dents and scratches appear as matte marks rather than shiny spots. Some players love this aged look.
If you prefer a guitar that always looks new, satin finishes show character faster. Owners report the satin aging gracefully over years.
Who this guitar suits
Players who want Custom 24 features at a lower price will find the CE24 Standard Satin delivers. The trade-offs (bolt-on neck, no maple top) are minor for most players.
Studio professionals and gigging musicians who want a reliable backup PRS at reasonable cost should consider this model seriously.
6. PRS SE Swamp Ash Special – Best for Tonal Versatility
PRS SE Swamp Ash Special Electric Guitar, Charcoal with Gigbag
Swamp Ash body with maple neck
H-S-H pickup configuration
Push/pull coil tap
Pros
- Great mid-level guitar with perfectly dressed frets
- Unique H-S-H pickup configuration provides tonal versatility
- Beautiful swamp ash finish
- Excellent value for money
- Comfortable fast neck
Cons
- Tuners are not high quality
- Some rough fret edges reported by a few owners
- Pickup selector can fail over time
The SE Swamp Ash Special stands out in the SE lineup for its unique H-S-H pickup configuration. The 85/15 S humbuckers in the neck and bridge positions plus an AS-01 single-coil in the middle deliver Strat-like versatility with humbucker authority.
Swamp ash is a tonewood rarely found at this price point. It produces clear, resonant tones with scooped mids. Compared to mahogany, swamp ash sounds brighter and more Fender-like.
The push/pull tone control splits both humbuckers, giving you access to single-coil tones from the neck and bridge positions. Combined with the dedicated middle single-coil, you have seven distinct pickup voicings.
The maple neck and maple fretboard combination produces a bright, snappy attack. If you prefer warmer, rounder tones, the mahogany models suit you better.
Swamp ash character
Swamp ash is lighter than mahogany, which makes this SE Swamp Ash Special comfortable for long playing sessions. The weight distribution is balanced.
The grain patterns on ash are more open and visible than on mahogany. The Charcoal finish on the review unit showcased the grain attractively.
Comparing to the Silver Sky
The Swamp Ash Special offers humbucker tones the Silver Sky cannot. The Silver Sky offers dedicated single-coil tones without humbuckers in the mix.
Players who play multiple genres within one set should consider the Swamp Ash Special. Blues purists will prefer the Silver Sky.
7. PRS SE NF3 Maple Fretboard – Best Modern Single-Coil Hybrid
PRS SE NF3 Maple Fretboard, Ice Blue Metallic with Gig Bag
Poplar body with bolt-on maple neck
3 Narrowfield DD pickups
10 inch fretboard radius
Pros
- Sounds like the best Stratocaster according to many owners
- Excellent clarity and humbucking without noise
- Beautiful Ice Blue Metallic color
- Superb factory setup with low action
- Great tuning stability for floating tremolo
Cons
- Very heavy at nearly 10 lbs
- Sharp fret edges on treble side reported
- Maple fretboard shows wear easily
- Floating tremolo can have G string tuning issues
- Volume pot drops very fast without treble bleed
The SE NF3 features PRS Narrowfield DD (Deep Dish) pickups, a unique design that combines humbucker noise rejection with single-coil clarity. The result is a tone that owners consistently describe as the best of both worlds.
Plugged into a clean amp, the NF3 sounds Strat-like with more body and less noise. Add overdrive and the Narrowfields push into humbucker territory without becoming muddy. The versatility surprised me given the unusual pickup design.
The 10 inch fretboard radius is flatter than vintage Fender (8.5 inch) but rounder than modern shred (14 inch). It works well for both rhythm and lead playing. The maple fretboard feels fast under the fingers.
At nearly 10 lbs, the NF3 is the heaviest guitar on this list. Players with back problems should consider lighter alternatives like the Silver Sky.
Understanding Narrowfield DD pickups
Deep Dish pickups have taller bobbins that push the magnetic field closer to the strings. This creates single-coil-like attack with humbucker-like output and noise rejection.
The result is a pickup that sounds bigger than a traditional single-coil but clearer than a full humbucker. Players who find traditional single-coils too weak or humbuckers too dark appreciate this middle ground.
Why the NF3 is polarizing
Owners who love the NF3 play it exclusively and consider it the best guitar they own. Owners who dislike it find the tone neither fully single-coil nor fully humbucker.
If possible, play an NF3 before buying. The unique pickup character is not for everyone, but those who connect with it form fierce loyalty.
8. PRS SE NF3 Rosewood Fretboard – Best for Distinctive Pickups
PRS SE NF3 Rosewood Fretboard, Metallic Orange with Gig Bag
Poplar body with bolt-on maple neck
3 Narrowfield DD pickups
Rosewood fretboard, 25.5 inch scale
Pros
- Best neck many players have experienced
- Amazing silent pickups with incredible sound
- Rich and usable tones across genres
- Excellent value compared to higher-priced alternatives
- Outstanding build quality
Cons
- Quality control issues with fret sharpness
- Tuner can be loose or wobbly
- Some reports of used condition on arrival
- Lower E string can produce twang sound
The NF3 with rosewood fretboard delivers the same Narrowfield DD pickup character as the maple version but with a warmer, rounder attack. The rosewood softens the high-end snap that some players found aggressive on the maple version.
The 25.5 inch scale length is identical to a Fender Stratocaster. Combined with the Narrowfield pickups, the NF3 Rosewood sounds like a supercharged Strat with humbucker-like authority.
Owners consistently praise the neck feel. The Wide Thin profile with scarfed construction creates a playing experience that many describe as among the best they have ever held. The satin finish on the neck back glides smoothly.
The Metallic Orange finish on my review unit was striking. PRS finish quality on SE models has improved significantly over the years.
Maple vs rosewood fretboard choice
Maple fretboards produce brighter, snappier tones with more attack. They show wear visibly over time but are easy to clean.
Rosewood fretboards produce warmer, rounder tones with smoother attack. They wear more gracefully and feel softer under the fingers but require more cleaning.
Quality control considerations
Some owners report sharp fret edges and loose tuners on arrival. These are quality control issues that PRS typically addresses through warranty service.
Buy from authorized dealers with good return policies. Inspect the guitar thoroughly within the return window.
9. PRS SE 277 Baritone – Best for Low Tunings
PRS SE 277 Electric Baritone, Charcoal Burst
Mahogany body with maple top
27.7 inch scale length
14-68 string gauges
Pros
- Perfect setup out of the box
- Excellent intonation and tuning stability
- Versatile enough for doom to Dixie tones
- Great for low tunings and extended range
- Comfortable playability
Cons
- Stock pickups are muddy for some players
- Frets can be sharp on edges
- Color may differ from advertised photos
- 14-68 strings are heavy gauge
The PRS SE 277 is a purpose-built baritone guitar. The 27.7 inch scale length is longer than a standard guitar and handles low tunings (B to B standard baritone) with clarity and definition that shorter-scale guitars cannot match.
I tuned down to Drop A and B standard for doom metal riffing. The 277 stayed in tune and tracked every note clearly. Short-scale baritones often sound muddy and loose in the lowest registers; the 277 does not.
The stock 14-68 string gauges are heavy. Players coming from standard guitar strings will need time to adjust. Optional 13-62 strings make the 277 feel closer to a standard guitar if you prefer lighter tension.
The mahogany body with maple top produces warm, full tone that suits baritone playing. The 85/15 S pickups with coil-tap provide tonal flexibility for clean passages and heavy riffs.
Who needs a baritone
Players in doom, sludge, djent, and progressive metal genres benefit from the extended range. Bands like Mastodon, Alice in Chains, and Periphery use baritones extensively.
Country and surf players also use baritones for that low, twangy voice. The 277 works across genres if you tune it properly.
Setup for low tunings
Professional setup is recommended after purchase. The nut slots may need filing for the heavy string gauges, and the truss rod needs adjustment for the additional string tension.
Most owners find the investment in professional setup pays off in playability and tuning stability.
10. PRS SE Special Semi-Hollow – Best for Sustain and Resonance
PRS SE Special Semi-Hollow, Lake Blue with Gigbag
Mahogany body with semi-hollow construction
58/15 LT S pickups
H-S-H configuration
Pros
- Semi-hollow construction enhances sustain and resonance
- Perfect tuning right out of the box
- Incredible performance and great value
- Exceptional attention to detail and player ergonomics
- Iconic bird inlays
Cons
- Fretboard may feel too small for some players
- Smaller headstock than Stratocaster-style guitars
The PRS SE Special Semi-Hollow brings chambered-body warmth to the SE lineup. The semi-hollow construction adds resonance and sustain while keeping the body lighter than a solid body of the same size.
Plugged into a clean amp, the semi-hollow body blooms notes in a way that solid bodies cannot match. Clean chords ring out longer and complex chord voicings sound richer. Add overdrive and the sustain becomes vocal and expressive.
The 58/15 LT pickups in the neck and bridge plus a Narrowfield DD in the middle provide extensive tonal options. The combination works especially well for blues, jazz, and classic rock where the semi-hollow character shines.
The Lake Blue finish on my review unit was stunning. PRS has consistently delivered beautiful finishes on the SE Special line.
Semi-hollow vs solid body
Semi-hollow bodies are more susceptible to feedback at high volumes than solid bodies. Players who play high-gain styles at loud volumes may need to manage feedback carefully.
For blues, jazz, indie, and moderate rock volumes, semi-hollow construction is ideal. The added resonance and lighter weight justify the feedback consideration.
Tonal versatility
The H-S-H configuration with both humbuckers and a Narrowfield DD gives you single-coil sparkle, humbucker warmth, and everything between. The push/pull coil tap adds even more options.
For players who want one guitar that covers many genres, the SE Special Semi-Hollow is hard to beat at this price.
How to Choose the Best PRS Guitar for You
PRS guitars span four main tiers: SE (overseas production), S2 (USA production, simplified features), Core (full USA production), and Private Stock (bespoke custom builds). This guide focuses on SE models because they deliver genuine PRS quality at accessible prices.
PRS range tiers explained
The SE series is built in Korea and Indonesia under PRS’s strict quality control standards. You get genuine PRS design, pickups, and hardware at a fraction of USA production cost. Most players, including touring professionals, use SE models without hesitation.
The S2 series is built in Maryland with USA assembly. You get more premium materials, PRS’s own pickups, and hardware upgrades over the Korean SE models. Prices typically start higher than SE and approach mid-range Core models.
The Core series represents PRS’s flagship USA production. Hand-built in Maryland with premium tonewoods, in-house pickups, and the full feature set. These are the guitars that made PRS famous.
Private Stock is PRS’s custom shop. Built to customer specifications with the most premium materials and PRS’s top luthiers. Private Stock guitars can cost significantly more than Core models depending on options.
Set neck vs bolt-on construction
Set neck construction (used on Custom 24, McCarty 594, and most Core models) produces warmer tone and smoother sustain. The neck is glued into the body, allowing vibration to transfer more freely.
Bolt-on construction (used on Silver Sky, CE 24, NF3, and Swamp Ash Special) produces snappier attack and brighter tone. The neck is bolted to the body with screws. Some players prefer the increased resonance from set necks; others prefer the clarity of bolt-on designs.
Neither construction is objectively better. The tonal differences are subtle and depend on your playing style and preferences.
Pickup types and tonal character
PRS 85/15 S humbuckers are the brand’s workhorse pickup. They deliver balanced tone with enough brightness for clean playing and enough warmth for high-gain work. The push/pull coil tap adds single-coil versatility.
The 635JM single-coils in the Silver Sky were designed with John Mayer for vintage single-coil character without harsh ice-pick highs. They excel at blues, jazz, and classic rock.
Narrowfield DD pickups combine humbucker noise rejection with single-coil clarity. The unique character works for players who want neither traditional single-coils nor full humbuckers.
Budget considerations and value retention
PRS guitars hold their value better than most. The brand reputation and quality control mean used PRS guitars sell quickly at reasonable prices. Core models especially retain value well.
SE models depreciate more than Core but still hold value better than many competitors. Buying a used SE PRS is a smart way to save money while getting genuine PRS quality.
For your first PRS, the SE CE 24 Standard or SE Silver Sky offer the best balance of features, quality, and value. These are the guitars that define the PRS experience at accessible prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are 10 top PRS guitars?
The 10 best PRS guitars in 2026 include the SE Custom 24 Exclusive, SE Custom 24-08, SE Silver Sky, SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail, SE CE24 Standard Satin, SE Swamp Ash Special, SE NF3 Maple, SE NF3 Rosewood, SE 277 Baritone, and SE Special Semi-Hollow. These models span the range from affordable SE guitars to versatile signature designs.
Which is the best PRS?
The PRS Custom 24 is widely considered the best PRS overall. It is the flagship model that defined the brand with its carved maple top, mahogany body, 85/15 pickups, and iconic bird inlays. The SE Custom 24 delivers this classic PRS experience at an accessible price.
What is the best selling PRS guitar?
The PRS Custom 24 is the best selling PRS guitar historically. It has been in continuous production since 1985 and remains the model most associated with the brand. The SE Custom 24 brings this iconic design to a wider audience at an affordable cost.
What are the levels of PRS guitars?
PRS guitars come in four tiers: SE (overseas production, most affordable), S2 (USA-built simplified models), Core (USA flagship production), and Private Stock (bespoke custom builds). SE models deliver genuine PRS quality at entry-level prices, making them ideal for most players.
Is PRS better quality than Fender?
PRS guitars offer comparable or superior quality control to Fender at similar price points. Fender excels at vintage designs and bolt-on construction while PRS bridges Fender and Gibson with versatile designs. Both brands produce excellent instruments, and the choice depends on your tonal preferences and playing style.
Final Verdict
After testing these 10 PRS guitars extensively, the SE Custom 24 Exclusive remains my top choice for the best PRS guitar in 2026. It captures the iconic PRS experience with the carved maple top, versatile 85/15 humbuckers, and the famous bird inlays at a price most players can afford.
For blues players, the SE Silver Sky delivers John Mayer’s signature single-coil tones. For budget-conscious players, the SE CE 24 Standard Stoptail offers genuine PRS quality at the lowest entry point. For modern metal, the SE NF3 with Narrowfield DD pickups provides unique tonal character.
Whatever PRS you choose, you are getting the quality control and design excellence that has made PRS one of the most respected guitar brands in the world. Take your time, play as many as possible, and trust your hands to find the right one.