10 Best Electric Guitar Amps for Beginners [2025]

Choosing the right amp when you're just starting on your electric guitar journey can feel a bit like trying to pick a favorite riff in a sea of metal classics—overwhelming but ultimately rewarding. The right amp can make everything from your crunchy power chords to your soaring solos sound just right, even if you’re still figuring out all those crazy scales. So, let’s cut through the noise and take a closer look at some of the best electric guitar amps for beginners in 2025.

Finding Your First Amp: What to Consider

Before we dive into the amps themselves, let's talk about what makes an amp suitable for a beginner. You’ve got the sound, size, features, and price to consider. Think of it like choosing a trusty sidekick for your musical adventures. Your amp should be versatile enough to handle a range of genres, from heavy metal to blues, without breaking the bank.

• Sound Quality: A good amp should provide clear, rich tones. For metal, you'll want something that handles distortion well.
• Portability: Smaller amps are great for practice and can be easily moved around or stored.
• Features: Look for amps with built-in effects, a headphone jack for silent practice, and perhaps a tuner.
• Price: You don’t need to drop a fortune on your first amp. There are great budget-friendly options that still deliver quality sound.

Now that we’ve got that sorted, let’s check out some amps that have been making waves in 2025!

Fender Mustang LT25: A Classic Choice

The Fender Mustang LT25 is like that classic rock song that never gets old. It’s versatile, reliable, and packs a punch for its size. With 25 watts of power, it’s not going to shake the walls, but it’s perfect for practice and small jam sessions.

Why it’s great for beginners:

• Versatile Tones: It comes with 30 presets covering a wide range of genres, so you can experiment with different sounds.
• User-Friendly Interface: The intuitive control panel makes it easy to tweak settings without getting lost in a maze of knobs and buttons.
• Connectivity: It has a USB connection, ideal for recording or playing along with tracks on your computer.

For those just starting out, this amp offers a lot without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s a Fender—need we say more?

Boss Katana 50 MkII: A Powerhouse in Disguise

The Boss Katana 50 MkII is like having a mini metal festival at your fingertips. It’s known for its powerful sound and versatility, making it a favorite among both beginners and seasoned players.

Key features:

• Five Amp Characters: From clean to high gain, the Katana covers a broad spectrum of tones, perfect for any metalhead.
• Built-in Effects: With over 60 effects, you’ll have plenty to explore without needing a pedalboard.
• Power Control: You can adjust the power output, making it suitable for bedroom practice or small gigs.

It's like having a tone wizard in a box. For metal guitarists, the Katana’s high-gain settings are sure to satisfy your craving for those crunchy, heavy riffs. At Riffhard, we often recommend the Katana for its versatile nature and the endless possibilities it offers to budding guitarists.

Line 6 Spider V 20 MkII: The Tech-Savvy Choice

If you’re the type who loves gadgets and gizmos, the Line 6 Spider V 20 MkII might be right up your alley. It’s packed with tech features that make practicing and recording a breeze.

Why it stands out:

• Versatile Tones: With over 200 amp, cab, and effect models, the Spider V 20 lets you craft your sound with precision.
• Built-in Tuner and Metronome: These tools are invaluable for practice sessions.
• Drum Loops and Metronome: Perfect for honing your timing and rhythm skills.

This amp is great for tech-savvy beginners who want to explore different sounds without needing to invest in a ton of additional gear. Plus, it’s compact and easy to use, making it a great fit for any practice space.

Blackstar Fly 3: The Portable Powerhouse

The Blackstar Fly 3 is the amp equivalent of a Swiss army knife. It’s small, portable, and surprisingly powerful for its size. Perfect for those times when you want to practice without setting up your entire rig.

What makes it a hit:

• Compact Size: It’s super portable, so you can easily take it anywhere.
• Great Sound: Despite its size, it delivers a surprisingly rich and full sound.
• Battery-Powered Option: Ideal for practicing on the go or when you’re away from a power outlet.

With its clean and overdrive channels, you can practice anything from bluesy licks to crunchy metal riffs. It might not replace a full-sized amp, but for on-the-go practice, it’s a fantastic choice.

Orange Crush 20RT: The Bold Choice

The Orange Crush 20RT is like the punk rocker of practice amps, it’s bold, brash, and ready to rock. Known for its distinctive orange design and powerful sound, this amp is a favorite for those who like a bit of attitude in their gear.

Highlights include:

• Classic Orange Tone: Known for its warm, crunchy sound, perfect for rock and metal.
• Built-in Tuner and Reverb: Practical features that enhance your practice sessions.
• Simple Controls: Easy to dial in your sound without getting lost in complex menus.

If you’re into the raw sound and aesthetic of Orange amps, the Crush 20RT delivers in spades. It’s a great amp to start with and grow into, as it can handle a variety of styles with ease.

Marshall Code 25: A Digital Marvel

The Marshall Code 25 is like having a digital studio in your room. With its rich history, Marshall has combined classic tones with modern technology to create an amp that’s perfect for experimenting with sound.

Features that make it stand out:

• Digital Pre-Amp: Offers a wide range of classic and modern tones.
• Bluetooth Connectivity: Play along with your favorite tracks or use it for recording.
• Customizable Presets: Save your favorite sounds for easy access.

For tech enthusiasts and those who love to experiment with their sound, the Code 25 offers endless possibilities. It’s perfect for creating unique tones and exploring different styles without needing a stack of gear. At Riffhard, we often say that the Code 25 can be a great tool for those who want to experiment and find their unique sound.

Peavey Vypyr VIP 1: Versatility at Its Best

The Peavey Vypyr VIP 1 is like a musical chameleon, able to adapt to whatever genre you’re in the mood for. With its modeling capabilities, it can mimic a range of amp sounds, offering great flexibility for beginners.

Why it’s a top pick:

• Wide Range of Models: Includes amp, instrument, and effects models, making it highly versatile.
• Enhanced Practice Features: Built-in tuner, looper, and backing tracks to improve your skills.
• Affordable: Offers a lot of features for a budget-friendly price.

Whether you’re switching from blues to heavy metal, the Vypyr VIP 1 can handle it all. It’s a great choice for those who want to try out different sounds without buying multiple amps.

VOX VT20X: A Vintage Touch

The VOX VT20X brings a touch of vintage flair to the table, combining classic VOX tones with modern technology. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the iconic VOX sound but want modern features.

What to love about it:

• Valvetronix Technology: Combines digital modeling with tube-like warmth for authentic tones.
• Wide Range of Tones: From clean, crisp sounds to gritty distortion, it covers a lot of ground.
• Tone Room Software: Customize and save your settings for easy access.

If you’re a fan of classic rock and want an amp that offers both vintage and modern capabilities, the VT20X is a solid choice. It’s small but mighty, making it a great practice amp with plenty of character.

Yamaha THR10II: The Sleek Performer

The Yamaha THR10II is known for its sleek design and impressive sound quality. It’s perfect for home practice and even recording, thanks to its USB connectivity and studio-quality tones.

Top features include:

• Hi-Fi Audio Quality: Delivers incredible sound, whether you’re playing or just streaming music.
• Wireless Compatibility: Supports Bluetooth connectivity for easy playback.
• Wide Range of Sounds: From clean to high-gain, with built-in effects to enhance your sound.

This amp is great for those who want a top-notch practice experience without sacrificing aesthetics. It’s compact, stylish, and offers a range of features that make it suitable for any guitarist looking to improve their skills.

Roland Cube Street EX: The On-the-Go Choice

Finally, the Roland Cube Street EX is perfect for those who need an amp that’s as portable as it is powerful. It’s battery-powered, making it ideal for busking or outdoor jam sessions.

What makes it unique:

• Battery-Powered: Take it anywhere, from street performances to park picnics.
• Multiple Inputs: Accommodates mic and guitar inputs, perfect for solo performers.
• Powerful Sound: Delivers impressive volume and clarity for its size.

If you’re the kind of player who likes to take your music on the road, the Cube Street EX offers the perfect blend of portability and performance. It’s robust enough for small gigs and versatile enough for any style.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're just starting your guitar journey or looking to enhance your practice setup, the right amp can make all the difference. From versatile digital options to classic tones, we've covered a range of amps that cater to every style and need. And if you're looking to refine your metal guitar skills, remember that Riffhard offers lessons from some of the best in the business. Happy playing!