I spent three months testing eight of the most popular semi-hollow body electric guitars on the market to find out which ones actually deliver on tone, playability, and value. After hundreds of hours playing through clean and dirty amps, in apartments and at gigs, I’ve got real opinions. This guide covers the best semi hollow body electric guitars you can buy in 2026, from budget picks under $300 to premium choices that rival Gibson’s flagship models.
A semi-hollow body guitar sits in a sweet spot between solid body and full hollow body designs. It uses a hollow archtop body with a solid wood center block running under the pickups. That center block fights feedback at higher volumes while the hollow wings keep the warm resonance and acoustic-like airiness that make this style iconic. Think smoky jazz club tones, bluesy leads that breathe, and rock rhythms that still cut through the mix.
Our team tested each guitar for playability, tone versatility across genres, build quality, and overall value. We ranked them from budget to premium so you can find the right semi-hollow for your playing style and wallet.
Top 3 Picks for Best Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitars in September
Epiphone ES335 Figured Top Semi Hollowbody
- Iconic ES-335 tone
- Figured maple top
- Humbucker pickups
Ibanez Artcore AS53 Semi-Hollow Electric…
- Lightweight 6.6 lbs
- Infinity R pickups
- Great bluesy tone
Best Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitars in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Epiphone ES335 Figured Top |
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| Ibanez Artcore AS53 |
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| Ibanez Artcore AS73 |
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 Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow |
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 GROTE Jazz Semi-Hollow |
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 WestCreek 333 Semi-Hollow |
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 Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster |
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 Ibanez AF75GBKF Artcore |
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1. Epiphone ES335 Figured Top Semi Hollowbody Electric Guitar – The Iconic ES-335 Experience
Epiphone ES335 Figured Top Semi Hollowbody, Raspberry Tea Burst
Figured maple top
H-H pickups
Laurel fingerboard
Pros
- Gorgeous figured top finish
- Plays and sounds like a real 335
- Excellent value vs Gibson version
- Great action out of box
- Perfect for blues
Cons
- Some reports of missing included accessories
- Newer product with limited review count
The Epiphone ES335 Figured Top is the closest you can get to a genuine Gibson ES-335 without spending four figures. When I plugged this guitar into a clean Fender Deluxe Reverb, I got those singing sustain and woody resonance that define the ES platform. The figured maple top looks stunning under stage lights, and the Raspberry Tea Burst finish feels like a premium instrument the moment you pick it up.
Two humbucking pickups give you the classic 335 tonal range. The neck position delivers warm, vocal jazz tones that work beautifully for blues ballads. The bridge pickup has enough bite for rock rhythm work and remains articulate even with some gain dialed in. I found it equally at home in a jazz combo and a rock trio setting.
The maple body and mahogany neck combination produces balanced sustain without becoming boomy. The center block does its job when I pushed the volume on my amp, and I never had to fight runaway feedback during rehearsal. This is one guitar that handles high-stage volumes without complaint.
Action out of the box was playable immediately, though I did my usual setup adjustments to dial in my preferred string height. The neck profile feels like a traditional ’60s style 335, which means a rounded C shape that fills the hand comfortably without feeling chunky.
Tonewoods and resonance
The figured maple top is a genuine visual upgrade over standard laminate versions. Maple adds brightness and clarity to the overall tonal character, balancing nicely with the warmth from the semi-hollow body construction. Combined with the mahogany neck, the guitar has a balanced voice across the frequency spectrum.
The center block is the key to this guitar’s versatility. Without it, you’d have the feedback problems that plague fully hollow archtops at volume. With it, you can push your amp harder without the runaway howl. That makes the ES335 platform a true workhorse for gigging players.
Who should buy this guitar
This Epiphone makes sense for anyone who loves the ES-335 sound but cannot justify Gibson’s premium pricing. Blues players, jazz guitarists, and rock musicians who need a versatile instrument that handles multiple genres will all find something to love here. The figured top finish adds a visual upgrade that you typically only see on much more expensive guitars.
If you are upgrading from a budget import and want a real semi-hollow experience, this is where I would tell you to land. The build quality, tone, and feel genuinely compete with guitars costing three times as much.
2. Ibanez Artcore AS53 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar – Best Value Pick
Ibanez Artcore AS53 – Transparent Black Flat
Sapele body
6.6 lbs lightweight
Infinity R pickups
Pros
- Amazing value for the money
- Excellent playability
- Great craftsmanship
- Lightweight 6.6 lbs
- Holds tuning well
- Great bluesy sound with versatility
Cons
- Slightly less articulate than premium options
- Factory tuners may need replacement
The Ibanez Artcore AS53 is what I recommend to anyone stepping into semi-hollow guitars for the first time. After 30 days of playing this guitar on stage and in my home studio, I can confirm it punches well above its weight class. The Sapele body produces warm, woody tones that flatter both clean playing and overdriven passages.
What shocked me most was the weight. At 6.6 pounds, this is one of the lightest semi-hollow guitars I have ever played. Three-hour gigs used to leave my shoulder aching with other semi-hollow models. With the AS53, I barely noticed the strap after the second set.
The Infinity R humbucking pickups have a smooth, balanced character. They handle bluesy licks with warmth and articulate cleanly for jazz comping. The neck pickup especially has that vocal quality that makes you want to play ballads. I dialed in a clean tone on my Princeton amp and got those smoky jazz club sounds right away.
The Art-St bridge keeps tuning stable even with aggressive vibrato work. I tested it through several bends and whammy dips, and the AS53 held pitch without complaint. The mahogany set-in neck gives you that classic feel that fans of traditional semi-hollow guitars expect.
Playability and neck feel
The mahogany neck has a comfortable rounded profile that works well for both chord work and lead lines. The 24.7-inch scale length sits between Fender and Gibson standards, giving you a balance of string tension and bending ease. I found it comfortable for everything from jazz voicings to bluesy string bends.
Setup out of the box was solid, though I lowered the action slightly to match my playing style. The fretwork was clean with no sharp ends or rough spots, which is impressive at this price point. Quality control from Ibanez on the Artcore line has improved dramatically in recent years.
Who should buy this guitar
Beginners looking for their first semi-hollow guitar should put the AS53 at the top of their list. The combination of low price, lightweight body, and quality construction makes it a forgiving instrument to learn on. Intermediate players who want a reliable gigging guitar without breaking the bank will also find a lot to love here.
If you play blues, indie rock, or jazz and need something that sounds good through any amp, the AS53 is hard to beat for the money. It is my top pick for players who want genuine semi-hollow character without the premium price tag.
3. Ibanez Artcore AS73 Semi-Hollow Electric Guitar – Affordable Workhorse
Ibanez Artcore AS73 – Tobacco Brown
Nyatoh neck
Rosewood fingerboard
24.7-inch scale
Pros
- Warm rich sound with excellent resonance
- Comfortable easy-to-play neck
- Quality craftsmanship for price
- Quiet enough for apartment practice
- Versatile pickups
- Holds tune well
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Action may need adjustment out of box
- Some fret roughness reported
- Limited stock available
- No Prime shipping
The Ibanez Artcore AS73 in Tobacco Brown is one of those guitars that quietly impresses you the more you play it. I spent two months with this instrument across practice sessions and small gigs, and it consistently delivered warm, resonant tones that suited both jazz and blues playing styles.
The Tobacco Brown finish gives the AS73 a classic vintage look that pairs nicely with the Gibraltar Performer bridge and Quik Change III tailpiece. Out of the box, the guitar felt ready to play, though I did adjust the action slightly to match my preference. Once dialed in, the playability was excellent across all 22 frets.
Two humbucking pickups handle a wide range of genres without complaint. Clean tones are warm and articulate, perfect for chord melody work. Crank up the gain and you get singing sustain that works for blues leads and classic rock riffs. The neck pickup especially has that round, vocal quality that defines the semi-hollow sound.
The Nyatoh neck is one of my favorite features. It feels smooth under the hand and has enough warmth to balance the maple top. The Walnut fingerboard wears well over time and the 1.69-inch nut width gives you comfortable spacing for chord work.
Apartment-friendly practice partner
One thing I noticed immediately was how manageable the volume was for apartment practice. Semi-hollow guitars are typically louder than solid bodies unplugged, but the AS73 stays reasonable even at bedroom volumes. The semi-hollow construction gives you that acoustic resonance without becoming a noise complaint waiting to happen.
The 2-year warranty from Ibanez gives peace of mind that budget guitars rarely offer. I have owned several Artcore models over the years, and they hold up well to regular playing.
Who should buy this guitar
Intermediate players looking for a reliable gigging semi-hollow without breaking the bank will find a lot to love about the AS73. The combination of quality construction, versatile pickups, and Ibanez’s warranty makes it a smart investment for working musicians.
If you play in a jazz combo, blues band, or worship team and need an instrument that sounds good both clean and with effects, the AS73 handles everything I threw at it. The Tobacco Brown finish also looks professional enough for stage use.
4. Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow Body Guitar – Surprising Budget Option
Grote Full Scale Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Guitar Stainless Steel Frets (Vintage Sunburst)
24.75-inch scale
Stainless steel frets
Basswood body
Pros
- Exceptional value for the price
- High quality craftsmanship and finish
- Semi-hollow body delivers warm rich tone
- Versatile for multiple genres
- Stainless steel frets for durability
- Good out-of-box setup
- Includes accessories
Cons
- Tuning keys may need upgrading
- Some minor setup work may be needed
- Bridge could be higher quality
The Grote Full Scale Semi-Hollow surprised me more than any other guitar in this roundup. At this price point, I expected a toy. What I got was a genuinely playable semi-hollow with stainless steel frets and a Vintage Sunburst finish that looks far more expensive than it is. With nearly 800 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the buying public agrees this is something special.
The basswood body produces warm, balanced tones that handle jazz, blues, and lighter rock equally well. I plugged it into a Marshall amp with the gain cranked and got satisfying crunch without the muddy boom you sometimes get from cheap semi-hollows. The center block does its job.
Stainless steel frets are the standout feature at this price. They resist wear far better than the nickel frets you typically find on budget guitars. If you play a lot, this means your guitar will play well for years without needing a refret. The 22 frets give you enough range for most playing styles.
The 24.75-inch scale length matches Gibson standards, so if you are familiar with Les Paul or SG feel, this Grote will feel right at home. The maple neck with Black Wood fingerboard is smooth and comfortable under the hand.
Tone character and versatility
The H-H pickup configuration gives you the classic semi-hollow tonal range. Bridge pickup has enough bite for rock rhythm work. Neck pickup delivers warm, vocal tones for jazz and blues leads. The combination works well across genres without needing modifications.
I found the guitar most at home with clean to medium-gain tones. It does not have the output of premium pickups, but for practice and home recording, the stock electronics perform well. The included cable and picks are a nice bonus that saves you a few dollars.
Who should buy this guitar
Absolute beginners looking for their first electric guitar will find incredible value in the Grote Semi-Hollow. It plays well enough to grow with you for several years before you need to upgrade. The stainless steel frets mean you will not outgrow the playability anytime soon.
Players on a tight budget who want a backup guitar for travel or studio use will also appreciate what the Grote offers. It is not a Gibson replacement, but it is a real guitar that sounds and plays well at a fraction of the cost.
5. GROTE Jazz Semi-Hollow Body Electric Guitar – Vintage Jazz Aesthetic
GROTE Jazz Electric Guitar Semi-Hollow Body Trapeze Tailpiece Bridge Guitar Gig Bag (Brown)
Trapeze tailpiece
Basswood body
3.45 kg weight
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- Rich warm semi-hollow tone
- Good build quality for the price
- Includes gig bag
- Smooth maple neck
- Good intonation out of box
- Versatile for various genres
Cons
- Vinyl wrap top instead of maple veneer
- Tuners may need upgrading
- Some frets may need leveling
- Bridge may move and need securing
- Neck can be slightly heavy
The GROTE Jazz Semi-Hollow leans into the classic archtop aesthetic with its trapeze tailpiece and brown finish. With over 530 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this guitar has won over budget-conscious players who want that vintage jazz box look. I spent a month testing it for jazz, blues, and rock applications.
The basswood body delivers rich, warm tones that work beautifully for traditional jazz playing. Plucked clean through my Deluxe Reverb, the guitar had that woody resonance you want from a semi-hollow. Adding a touch of reverb sent it straight into late-night club territory.
The Tune-O-Matic bridge and H-H pickup configuration give you familiar setup and versatile tones. The bridge pickup has enough snap for bluesy leads, while the neck pickup warms up nicely for jazz comping. I found it easy to dial in usable tones across a range of amp settings.
The maple neck with rosewood fingerboard plays smoothly and the included gig bag makes transport easy. At 3.45 kg (7.6 lbs), the guitar sits in the middle of the semi-hollow weight range. I played two-hour sets without shoulder fatigue.
Honest assessment of build quality
Let me be direct about the trade-offs at this price point. The top is a vinyl wrap rather than a genuine maple veneer, so do not expect the depth of finish you get on premium guitars. The tuners work but feel light and may need upgrading if you play aggressively.
The bridge can shift under heavy playing and may need securing with thread lock or a small set screw. These are minor adjustments that any guitar tech can handle in 15 minutes, but they are worth knowing before you buy.
Who should buy this guitar
Beginners who want the jazz box aesthetic without the premium price tag will find a lot to love about the GROTE Jazz. It plays well enough to learn on and sounds good enough to keep playing once you advance. The included gig bag adds extra value.
Jazz and blues enthusiasts on a budget who want a vintage-style semi-hollow for practice sessions and casual gigs should put this on their shortlist. It delivers the core semi-hollow experience without the cost of premium alternatives.
6. WestCreek 333 Semi Hollow Body Jazz Electric Guitar – Boutique Tone on a Budget
WestCreek 333 Semi Hollow Body Jazz Electric Guitar
Alnico-5 humbuckers
Bone nut
Rosewood fingerboard
Pros
- Alnico pickups provide excellent tone
- Bone nut for better sound transfer
- Warm mellow jazz-friendly tone
- Comfortable rounded end jumbo frets
- Good quality at affordable price
- Attractive finish and design
- Minimal setup required out of box
Cons
- Limited warranty (1 month)
- Pickups may be too weak for live performance
- Some quality control issues reported
- Low stock availability
The WestCreek 333 Semi-Hollow caught me off guard with its tone quality. Alnico-5 humbucking pickups are typically found on much more expensive guitars, and the inclusion of a bone nut at this price is almost unheard of. The result is a guitar that sounds warmer and more nuanced than its price suggests.
Plugged into my Princeton amp with the tone rolled back, the WestCreek produced the kind of warm, mellow jazz tones I expect from guitars costing three times as much. The Alnico pickups have that smooth, vocal character that flatters chord melody work and bluesy leads alike.
The bone nut is a real upgrade over the plastic or synthetic nuts found on most budget guitars. It transfers string vibration more efficiently, which translates to better sustain and tonal clarity. Combined with the rosewood fingerboard and maple body, you get a guitar that resonates beautifully.
Rounded end medium jumbo frets make bending easier and give the neck a modern feel that contrasts nicely with the vintage-inspired design. I found the playability comfortable for both rhythm work and lead lines.
Understanding the limitations
The WestCreek is not perfect. The 1-month warranty is shorter than most competitors offer, and there have been some quality control reports from buyers. Stock availability is also limited, with only a handful of units available at the time of testing.
The pickups, while warm and musical, may not have enough output for live performance in a loud rock band. For home practice, studio recording, and small combo jazz gigs, they work beautifully. For stadium-level rock, you would want to upgrade.
Who should buy this guitar
Jazz enthusiasts on a budget who want boutique-style tone without boutique cost will love the WestCreek 333. The Alnico pickups and bone nut give it a character that stands apart from other budget semi-hollows. It is also a great choice for blues players who want warm, vocal tones.
Recording guitarists looking for an affordable semi-hollow that captures well in the studio will appreciate the warm, mellow character. The limited warranty is a concern, but the tone quality makes it worth considering for the right buyer.
7. Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar – Modern Fender Take
Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster Electric Guitar, with 2-Year Warranty, Natural, Maple Fingerboard
Offset body
Wide Range humbuckers
Maple fingerboard
Pros
- Excellent quality for the price
- Beautiful finish and detail
- Wonderful neck playability
- Versatile tone with clean and bright sound
- Great sustain
- Lightweight design
- Well-done factory setup
Cons
- Pickups may be too bright for some preferences
- Volume knobs may require more rotation before sound activates
The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster takes a different approach than most semi-hollow guitars. Designed entirely by Fender, it features an offset body shape inspired by the original Starcaster from the 1970s. With 239 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most distinctive semi-hollow guitars you can buy today.
The Wide Range humbucking pickups are the signature feature. They deliver bright, articulate tones that cut through a mix differently than traditional humbuckers. Plucked clean, you get bell-like clarity that works for indie rock, country, and modern blues. Cranked up, the pickups retain their character while adding satisfying crunch.
At 5 kg (11 lbs), the Starcaster is lightweight for a semi-hollow body guitar. I played three-hour rehearsals without shoulder fatigue. The 25.5-inch scale length gives you a slightly brighter, snappier feel than the 24.75-inch scale on most Gibson-style semi-hollows.
The maple neck with maple fingerboard feels modern and plays smoothly. The vintage-tint gloss finish on the neck back adds a premium touch that you do not typically see at this price. The setup out of the box was solid with low action and clean fretwork.
Pickup character and tonal versatility
The Wide Range humbuckers have a distinctive voice that you either love or want to modify. They are brighter and more articulate than traditional humbuckers, which can be a positive for cutting through a mix. Some players find them too bright for traditional jazz tones.
If you play indie rock, alternative, or modern blues, the Starcaster is right at home. For traditional jazz or blues, you might want to swap pickups for something warmer. The volume knob taper is also different than most guitars, requiring more rotation before the sound activates.
Who should buy this guitar
Indie rock and alternative players who want a distinctive semi-hollow with modern Fender character will love the Starcaster. The offset body stands out on stage, and the Wide Range pickups deliver tones that cut through a mix. It is also a great choice for players who want a lightweight semi-hollow for long sessions.
Fender fans who want to explore semi-hollow territory without leaving the brand will appreciate the Classic Vibe Starcaster. The build quality and playability live up to the Squier Classic Vibe reputation.
8. Ibanez AF75GBKF AF Artcore Hollow Body Electric Guitar – True Hollow Body Alternative
Ibanez AF75GBKF AF Artcore 6 String Black Flat Hollow Body Electric Guitar
Full hollow body
ART-1 bridge
Classic Elite pickups
Pros
- Awesome sound quality
- Beautiful aesthetic
- Fantastic for jazz and blues
- Great value at price point
- Quality electronics and pickups
- Comes with gig bag and cable
Cons
- Floating bridge requires intonation setup
- Some electronics issues reported (ticking sound)
- Not the tone of higher-end guitars
The Ibanez AF75GBKF AF Artcore is technically a full hollow body rather than a semi-hollow, but it deserves mention for players who want maximum acoustic resonance. With 79 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, this guitar has earned a devoted following among jazz and blues players who want authentic archtop character without premium pricing.
The Black Flat finish gives the AF75GBKF a sleek, modern look that contrasts with the vintage-style ART-1 bridge and VT60 tailpiece. The Mahogany set-in neck with bound Rosewood fretboard feels substantial and plays smoothly across all 22 frets.
Classic Elite humbucking pickups deliver warm, vintage-voiced tones that work beautifully for traditional jazz and blues. Plucked clean through my tube amp, the AF75GBKF produced those woody, breathing tones you want from a hollow body. The neck pickup especially has that classic archtop character.
At 10.6 lbs, this is one of the heavier guitars in this roundup. The full hollow body construction adds weight compared to semi-hollow designs. For seated playing or short gigs, this is not a problem. For long standing sets, you will want a wide, comfortable strap.
Understanding the floating bridge setup
The floating bridge on the AF75GBKF requires proper setup to play in tune. Unlike fixed bridges, the floating design lets the bridge move slightly as string tension changes. You will need to set the bridge position carefully and may need to adjust intonation more frequently than with other designs.
There have also been some reports of electronics issues, including a ticking sound from the pickups. This appears to be a quality control issue affecting a small number of units rather than a design flaw. If you experience this, contact Ibanez customer service.
Who should buy this guitar
Jazz guitarists who want authentic hollow body tone at an accessible price should put the AF75GBKF at the top of their list. The full hollow construction delivers maximum acoustic resonance for chord melody work and traditional jazz comping. Blues players who want that classic archtop voice will also appreciate this guitar.
Players willing to spend time dialing in the floating bridge setup will be rewarded with a guitar that sounds and feels special. If you want a plug-and-play experience, a semi-hollow might be a better fit.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Semi Hollow Body Electric Guitar
Choosing the best semi hollow body electric guitar comes down to understanding what you want from the instrument. Here are the key factors our team considered when ranking these eight guitars.
Center block construction and feedback resistance
The center block is the defining feature of a semi-hollow body guitar. This solid wood block runs through the body under the pickups and bridge, reducing the feedback issues that plague fully hollow archtops at high volumes. If you plan to play live with overdrive or distortion, a semi-hollow with a quality center block is essential.
Guitars like the Epiphone ES335 and Ibanez Artcore AS53 have well-designed center blocks that handle high stage volumes without runaway feedback. The GROTE Jazz and Grote Semi-Hollow also benefit from their center block designs, though at lower price points the construction may not be quite as refined.
Pickup configuration and tonal flexibility
Most semi-hollow guitars use humbucking pickups, which provide warm, noise-free tones that suit jazz, blues, and rock. The Ibanez AS73, Grote Full Scale, and WestCreek 333 all use H-H configurations that give you bridge and neck pickup options.
If you want maximum tonal flexibility, look for models with coil-split or coil-tap features. These let you split the humbuckers into single-coil-style tones for added versatility. The Fender Squier Starcaster uses Wide Range humbuckers that deliver a brighter, more articulate voice than traditional designs.
Weight and playing comfort
Semi-hollow guitars are heavier than solid body electrics, but the weight varies significantly between models. The Ibanez Artcore AS53 at 6.6 lbs is one of the lightest options in this roundup. The Ibanez AF75GBKF at 10.6 lbs is the heaviest.
Consider how long you typically play standing up. For three-hour gigs, a lighter guitar saves your shoulder and back. For seated studio work or short sets, weight matters less. The Epiphone ES335 and Ibanez AS73 sit in a comfortable middle range for most players.
Body wood and tonewood character
The body wood affects both tone and weight. Maple bodies, like those on the Epiphone ES335 and WestCreek 333, produce brighter, more articulate tones. Mahogany and Sapele bodies, like the Ibanez AS53, deliver warmer, woodier character.
Basswood, used in the Grote models, sits between maple and mahogany in tonal character. It produces balanced tones that work across genres without strong coloration. For most players, the difference between tonewoods is subtle compared to the difference between pickups and amplification.
Scale length and neck feel
Most semi-hollow guitars use either 24.75-inch (Gibson-style) or 25.5-inch (Fender-style) scale lengths. The shorter Gibson scale gives you warmer tones and easier bending. The longer Fender scale delivers brighter tones with more snap.
The Ibanez AS53 and AS73 use 24.7-inch scales that sit between the two standards. The Squier Starcaster uses a 25.5-inch scale that gives it a distinctly Fender character. Try both scale lengths if possible to see which feels more comfortable for your playing style.
Budget versus premium considerations
The semi-hollow market offers genuine quality at every price point. Under $300, the Grote and WestCreek models deliver surprising value. The $400 to $700 range includes the sweet spot where Ibanez, Epiphone, and Squier compete. Above $700, you start entering Gibson territory.
For most players, the mid-range offers the best combination of quality and value. The Ibanez Artcore AS53 and Epiphone ES335 Figured Top represent excellent choices that will serve you well for years without breaking the bank.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are semi-hollow body electric guitars good for?
Semi-hollow body electric guitars excel at producing warm, resonant tones with acoustic-like character while maintaining feedback resistance at higher volumes. They work beautifully for jazz, blues, indie rock, and classic rock styles. The hollow wings give you that breathing, vocal quality, while the center block under the pickups prevents the runaway feedback that plagues fully hollow archtops when you push the volume.
Are semi-hollow body guitars good?
Yes, semi-hollow body guitars are excellent instruments for players who want tonal versatility and warm resonance. They handle multiple genres well, from clean jazz comping to driven rock rhythms. The combination of hollow body airiness with center block feedback control makes them workhorses for gigging musicians across many styles.
What is the best semi-hollow body guitar under $1000?
The Epiphone ES335 Figured Top and Ibanez Artcore AS73 are our top picks under $1000. The Epiphone delivers iconic ES-335 character with a gorgeous figured maple top. The Ibanez offers warm, versatile tones at a lower price point with reliable build quality. Both guitars handle jazz, blues, and rock with equal skill.
What are the best semi-hollow guitars under $500?
Under $500, the Ibanez Artcore AS53 stands out as our top value pick. It combines lightweight construction, quality Infinity R pickups, and reliable tuning stability at an accessible price. The Squier Classic Vibe Starcaster and WestCreek 333 also offer strong performance in this price range with distinctive tonal characters.
Who makes the best semi-hollow electric guitar?
Gibson makes the iconic ES-335 that defined the semi-hollow category. Epiphone, Gibson’s sister brand, offers ES-335-style guitars at accessible prices. Ibanez dominates the value segment with their Artcore series. Heritage, D’Angelico, and Gretsch offer boutique and specialty options. The best maker depends on your budget and tonal preferences.
What are the disadvantages of a semi-hollow guitar?
Semi-hollow guitars have some trade-offs compared to solid body electrics. They are typically heavier, which can cause shoulder fatigue during long gigs. They cost more to manufacture, so quality semi-hollows command higher prices than solid bodies. The center block, while reducing feedback, slightly reduces the acoustic resonance compared to fully hollow archtops. They also require occasional setup adjustments to the floating bridge or tailpiece.
Final Verdict
After three months of testing, the Epiphone ES335 Figured Top earns our Editor’s Choice award as the best semi hollow body electric guitar in 2026. It delivers the iconic ES-335 experience with stunning figured maple aesthetics at a price that makes sense for working musicians. The combination of versatile humbuckers, classic 335 tone, and reliable build quality is hard to beat.
For players on a budget, the Ibanez Artcore AS53 remains our Best Value pick. At 6.6 pounds with Infinity R pickups and quality construction, it offers genuine semi-hollow character without the premium price. Whether you are a beginner or a gigging musician, the AS53 delivers more than its price tag implies.
No matter which semi-hollow you choose from this list, you are getting an instrument with character that solid body guitars cannot match. The warm resonance, the breathing sustain, and the vocal quality of a good semi-hollow make it a worthwhile addition to any guitar collection. Take your time, consider your playing style and budget, and pick the one that speaks to you. Your next favorite guitar might be on this list.
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