The Stratocaster is one of the most beloved guitars ever made. They’re bright, expressive, and super comfortable to play. From classic blues to modern pop, from funky clean tones to crunchy rock riffs, a good Strat can handle almost anything. With so many versions out there, American, Mexican, vintage-style, modern-style, artist models, and more, it can be hard to pick the one that really deserves the top spot.
So, we want to hear it from you: what’s the best Stratocaster model? Is it a classic ’60s-style Strat, a sleek modern HSS setup, or maybe a signature model that inspired you? Vote for your favorite below and let us know what makes it special to you. And don’t forget, share your experience and thoughts in the comments. Your input might help someone choose their next Strat!
1. Fender American Vintage II
During the early-’60s surf rock explosion, Fender and pioneering guitarists chased the ultimate Stratocaster tone, fine-tuning everything from Alnico III single-coils to nitro gloss finishes. The American Vintage II 1961 Stratocaster faithfully recreates that iconic model with stunning accuracy.
Crafted from classic alder, maple, and rosewood, it features a handpicked trio of pure ’61 single-coil pickups that capture the bright, shimmering voice of the era. Retaining the comfortable “C” neck profile, smooth fretboard feel, and authentic playability, it feels like holding a legendary instrument steeped in 20th-century history, ready to surf, twang, and soar once again.
2. Fender American Ultra II
The Fender American Ultra II Stratocaster HSS reimagines Leo’s timeless double-cut for modern players, powered by a scorching Haymaker humbucker at the bridge. A sculpted alder body with tapered neck heel and deep contours grants effortless upper-fret access and all-night comfort.
The quartersawn Modern D maple neck features Ultra Rolled edges and a speedy 10"-14" compound-radius fingerboard. Two Ultra II Noiseless Hot Strat single-coils in neck and middle deliver classic bite, while the S-1 switch splits the Haymaker for authentic SSS sparkle. Premium hardware: 2-point synchronized tremolo with cold-rolled steel block, Deluxe locking tuners, and sleek 1-ply aluminum pickguard ensure flawless performance and stability. Classic Strat DNA meets cutting-edge design in this bold, high-output HSS powerhouse.
3. Fender American Professional II
The Fender American Professional II Stratocaster HSS elevates its predecessor with refined features and tone. Its alder body houses all-new V-Mod II single-coil pickups for classic Strat sparkle, while the powerful Double Tap bridge humbucker delivers thick, articulate leads without hum.
A sculpted heel improves upper-fret access, and upgraded hardware, including smooth-rolling tuners ensure flawless performance. Enhanced finishing techniques showcase Fender’s legendary craftsmanship. Vintage-voiced yet stage-ready, this HSS Strat is built to dominate any gig with timeless tone and modern playability.
4. Fender Player II
The Fender Player II Stratocaster fuses classic Fender style with modern performance upgrades. Crafted from proven alder, maple, and rosewood, it features Player Series single-coil pickups that deliver shimmering highs, punchy lows, and rich, singing mids.
Newly added rolled fingerboard edges enhance comfort and speed, while revived vintage-inspired finishes, some never before seen in the series, bring striking visual flair. A smooth 2-point synchronized tremolo completes the package. With timeless tone, improved playability, and eye-catching looks, the Player II Stratocaster is built for limitless expression and contemporary performance.
5. Fender Eric Clapton
The Eric Clapton Stratocaster puts Slowhand’s legendary tone and feel directly in your hands, one of Fender’s most celebrated and longest-running signature models. Its alder body, trio of Vintage Noiseless™ pickups, active 25 dB mid-boost, and TBX tone circuit deliver Clapton’s signature blend of creamy blues power and crystalline clarity with zero hum.
A soft “V” neck profile and blocked vintage synchronized tremolo ensure effortless playability and rock-solid tuning. Pure Clapton Strat magic, built for the world’s greatest rock and blues icon.
6. Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan
Stevie Ray Vaughan’s battle-scarred “Number One” Strat is one of the most legendary guitars in history. The Fender Stevie Ray Vaughan Signature Stratocaster faithfully recreates that iconic instrument, blending vintage-correct specs with Stevie’s own custom touches.
A lightweight 1962-style alder body meets a thick oval-profile 1963-spec maple neck capped with a 12"-radius pau ferro fingerboard for effortless bends and blazing leads. Three Texas Special pickups deliver SRV’s signature fire—punchy lows, biting mids, and crystalline highs. Gold American Vintage tuners, a left-handed tremolo (nodding to Jimi Hendrix), and the famous “SRV” pickguard complete the tribute. This is pure Texas flood tone and soul, straight from the hands of a blues-rock immortal.
7. Fender Vintera II '60s
The Fender Vintera II '60s Stratocaster brings the golden era back to life with authentic looks, feel, and that unmistakable Fender tone. An alder body and maple neck with rosewood fingerboard deliver punchy, clear vintage voice.
The slim '60s “C” profile and 7.25" radius board with vintage-tall frets offer classic comfort and easy bends. Three vintage-style '60s single-coils serve up sweet sparkle and warm, woody character. A vintage synchronized tremolo invites expressive dives, while vintage-style tuners with improved gearing ensure rock-solid tuning and period-perfect aesthetics. Pure '60s Strat magic, reborn.
8. Squier Classic Vibe '50s
The Squier Classic Vibe '50s Stratocaster celebrates the Strat’s groundbreaking first decade with authentic vintage style and tone. Its trio of Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups and classic 5-way switching deliver the sparkling, bell-like chime that made the Strat legendary.
Upgraded with a genuine 1.65" bone nut, smooth C-shaped maple neck, and 9.5"-radius fingerboard, it offers impressive sustain and playability far beyond its price. Vintage-correct looks, modern refinements, and unmistakable Strat magic. This Classic Vibe nails the '50s spirit with exceptional value.
9. Fender Jimi Hendrix
The Jimi Hendrix Stratocaster pays homage to the incomparable “Voodoo Child,” the visionary who redefined what a Strat could do. This signature model captures his explosive vintage tone and revolutionary playing feel, complete with authentic reverse headstock, reversed slant-bridge pickup, and the distinctive appointments of his famous flipped-over Strats. From searing leads to cosmic rhythm work, it delivers the same fiery, limitless sonic palette that made Hendrix a legend, ready for you to unleash your own electric church.
10. Squier Classic Vibe '70s
The Squier Classic Vibe '70s Stratocaster pays homage to the iconic large-headstock Strats of the 1970s. Its trio of Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups delivers that unmistakable sparkling, bell-like tone. A slim, comfortable “C”-shaped neck, 9.5"-radius fingerboard, and narrow-tall frets ensure effortless playability, while a vintage-style tremolo invites expressive bends and dives.
Complete with period-correct headstock markings, nickel-plated hardware, and a glossy vintage-tint neck finish, this throwback Squier nails the look, feel, and sound of a true '70s classic.
11. Fender Player Plus
The Fender Player Plus Stratocaster fuses timeless Strat design with fresh, player-focused upgrades and bold new finishes. At its core, three Player Plus Noiseless pickups deliver bright, responsive, hum-free classic Strat tone. A push/pull tone pot engages the neck pickup in switch positions 1 and 2 for rare, expanded voicings.
The satin Modern “C” neck with rolled edges feels buttery-smooth, while the 12" radius board and 22 medium-jumbo frets make bends and leads effortless. A 2-point tremolo invites expressive dives, backed by locking tuners for rock-solid stability and fast string changes. Stylish, comfortable, and sonically adventurous.
12. Fender Vintera II '70s
The Fender Vintera II '70s Stratocaster perfectly captures the magic of a big-headstock '70s Strat with authentic vintage swagger and smart modern refinements. Its ash or alder body, “U”-shaped maple neck, 7.25" vintage-radius fingerboard, and three period-correct '70s single-coil pickups deliver the chunky, bell-like tone that defined the era.
Classic touches abound: “F”-stamped tuners, bullet truss rod, 3-ply pickguard, aged white knobs, vintage-style synchronized tremolo, and a glorious vintage-tint gloss neck. The large '70s headstock and iconic colors seal the deal. It feels like a battle-worn pawn shop treasure, but plays and sounds brand-new—pure '70s Strat soul, reborn.
13. Fender Eric Johnson
Few guitarists have forged a truly unmistakable voice like Texas virtuoso Eric Johnson. Renowned for his impeccable tone and relentless pursuit of the perfect instrument, Johnson has finally partnered with Fender to release his long-awaited Signature Stratocaster.
Meticulously crafted to Eric’s exacting personal specifications, every detail reflects his lifelong quest for the ultimate guitar. From hand-selected tonewoods to custom-wound pickups and unique wiring, this Strat embodies his signature blend of crystalline clarity, singing sustain, and dynamic responsiveness. A labor of love born from Johnson’s desire to give back to the players, collectors, and devoted fans who’ve championed his extraordinary career, the Eric Johnson Signature Stratocaster is nothing less than tone perfection realized.
14. Fender Dave Murray
Iron Maiden’s Dave Murray is a true metal icon, and his Fender California Series Signature Stratocaster puts his legendary tone and feel within reach. Classic Strat contours meet ferocious power via three Seymour Duncan humbuckers: Hot Rails in neck and bridge for razor-sharp bite, and a JB Jr. in the middle for thick, singing leads.
A fast compound-radius fingerboard, smooth satin neck, and Floyd Rose tremolo ensure effortless shredding and rock-solid tuning through the heaviest riffs and most dramatic dives. This is the ultimate marriage of traditional Strat playability and high-octane metal aggression, straight from one of the genre’s greatest.
15. Fender Ritchie Blackmore
Ritchie Blackmore, the architect of neoclassical heavy rock, delivered the planet’s most iconic Strat riff (“Smoke on the Water”) and turned the extended guitar solo into high art. The Ritchie Blackmore Signature Stratocaster recreates his favorite '70s workhorse, complete with graduated scalloped fingerboard for lightning-fast phrasing and effortless string bends, custom-wound single-coil pickups voiced for his signature bite and sustain, and all the distinctive mods that made his tone instantly recognizable. A true metal godfather’s weapon, now ready to put Blackmore’s unmistakable style and thunder in your hands.
16. Fender Vintera II '50s
The Fender Vintera II '50s Stratocaster brings the golden '50s Strat era back to life with authentic style, feel, and that unmistakable Fender magic. Its alder body and one-piece maple neck deliver punchy, crystal-clear vintage tone.
The soft “V” neck profile offers a comfortably vintage grip, while the 7.25" radius fingerboard with vintage-tall frets invites big bends and expressive vibrato. Three vintage-style '50s single-coils serve up sweet sparkle and warm, woody character that made the Strat legendary. A vintage synchronized tremolo and upgraded vintage-style tuners with improved gearing provide classic looks, smooth performance, and rock-solid stability. Pure '50s Strat soul, reborn and ready to play.
17. Fender EOB Ed O'Brien
The Fender EOB Sustainer Stratocaster is Ed O’Brien’s signature tool for Radiohead’s atmospheric, boundary-pushing sound. Built on a classic alder body and bolt-on maple neck with a comfortable 10/56 “V” profile, it delivers exceptional playability and familiar Strat feel.
At its heart, the Fernandes Sustainer in the neck position creates infinite, controllable sustain, perfect for lush pads, swelling textures, or singing harmonics. A Texas Special single-coil in the middle supplies vintage Strat sparkle, while a Seymour Duncan JB Jr. humbucker at the bridge adds thick, aggressive bite. The vintage synchronized tremolo and precise vintage-style tuners complete this highly versatile, experimental rock machine, ready for everything from ambient washes to soaring leads.
18. Fender Standard
Launched in 1954, the Fender Stratocaster revolutionized the electric guitar with its sculpted double-cutaway body, versatile three-pickup layout, and groundbreaking spring-loaded tremolo bridge, instantly cementing its place as a timeless classic.
The Standard Stratocaster HSS brings that legendary design to new players, offering approachable feel and inspiring tone. High-output Fender Standard pickups deliver bold, versatile character, while the smooth Modern “C” neck ensures effortless playability. Built for musical discovery, this HSS Strat upholds the iconic Fender legacy at an accessible price.
19. Fender American Ultra Luxe
Fender American Ultra Luxe represents the pinnacle of the Ultra series, blending cutting-edge performance with striking aesthetics. Its unique Augmented “D” neck profile, Ultra rolled fingerboard edges, and tapered neck heel deliver unmatched comfort and effortless access to the highest frets.
A fast 10"-14" compound-radius fingerboard with 22 stainless steel medium-jumbo frets ensures precise, fluid soloing. Ultra Noiseless Vintage pickups paired with advanced wiring options offer limitless tonal variety, completely hum-free. Sculpted rear contours enhance ergonomics and elegance, while sealed locking tuners, chrome hardware, matching painted headcap, and TUSQ nut guarantee flawless tuning stability and sustain.
20. Fender Jeff Beck
Jeff Beck has pushed the Stratocaster further than almost anyone, from Yardbirds fire to decades of genre-defying solo brilliance, forging one of the most expressive and recognizable voices in guitar history. The Jeff Beck Signature Stratocaster brings that magic within reach, blending timeless Fender style with the exact custom features Beck demands: hot ceramic pickups, a contoured heel, special wiring, and a silky-smooth neck built for limitless bending and touch-sensitive dynamics. One of Fender’s longest-running and most beloved artist models, it lets you channel Beck’s unparalleled tone and feel like never before.
21. Fender Mike McCready
The Mike McCready Stratocaster faithfully recreates the battle-scarred tone and spirit of Pearl Jam’s legendary guitarist. Crafted with Mike himself, it features a heavily Road Worn lacquer finish over an alder body, mirroring the hard-earned marks of his own 1960 Strat after decades of iconic performances.
A slim “C” maple neck with 9.5" radius slab rosewood fingerboard matches his prized original, while custom-voiced Mike McCready pickups deliver the exact vintage single-coil fire, passion, and energy that define his sound. Vintage-style synchronized tremolo with bent-steel saddles and cold-rolled steel block ensures pure Fender tone and rock-solid performance.
Worn-in yet vibrant, this Strat channels the soul and intensity behind Pearl Jam’s timeless hits and electrifying live legacy.
22. Fender Yngwie Malmsteen
Yngwie Malmsteen, the undisputed king of neoclassical shred, has wielded his signature Fender Stratocaster for decades. The Yngwie Malmsteen Stratocaster is built for virtuosic speed: a contoured alder body, sleek Modern “C” maple neck, and lightning-fast scalloped fingerboard deliver unmatched comfort and fluidity.
Seymour Duncan YJM Fury noiseless single-coils unleash searing, articulate leads with vintage Strat character. A brass nut boosts sustain, vintage “F”-stamped tuners and a 6-saddle American Vintage tremolo ensure rock-solid tuning and expressive vibrato. For players chasing blistering runs and harmonic-minor mayhem, this is the ultimate neoclassical shred weapon.
23. Squier Classic Vibe '60s
The Squier Classic Vibe '60s Stratocaster faithfully honors the golden-era evolution of the Strat. Three Fender-designed alnico single-coil pickups deliver classic sparkling chime and bell-like clarity. A slim, comfortable “C”-shaped neck, smooth 9.5"-radius fingerboard, and narrow-tall frets provide effortless playability, while a vintage-style tremolo enables expressive bends and shimmers.
Finished with authentic '60s headstock logos, nickel-plated hardware, and a glossy vintage-tint neck, this throwback Squier perfectly captures the look, feel, and legendary tone of a true 1960s Strat. Old-school vibe, modern reliability.
24. Fender Nile Rodgers Hitmaker
Nile Rodgers’ 1960 “Hitmaker” Stratocaster is the defining voice behind over 500 million albums sold, from Chic’s disco anthems to timeless hits with Bowie, Madonna, and Daft Punk. Now, the Fender Nile Rodgers Hitmaker Signature Strat brings that legendary instrument to life.
It features an exactingly recreated, smaller-than-standard 1960 alder body in Nile’s own Olympic White lacquer, paired with a satin-finished one-piece maple neck (’59 profile, 9.5" radius, medium-jumbo frets). Custom-voiced Hitmaker single-coils capture the unmistakable quack, chime, and bell-like clarity that shaped generations of dance floors.
Authentic touches include a hardtail string-through bridge with bent-steel saddles, mirrored chrome-brass pickguard, locking tuners, white speed knobs, “Nile Rodgers & Chic” headstock logo, and custom neck plate. It arrives in a vintage-style case with embroidered interior and certificate of authenticity, the ultimate tribute to the world’s most famous Strat.
25. Squier Affinity Series
The Squier Affinity Stratocaster HSS delivers iconic Strat style, feel, and tone at an unbeatable value. Its lightweight poplar body, topped with striking flame maple veneer, provides lively resonance and all-day comfort.
A smooth maple neck and fingerboard ensure fast, responsive playability across every genre. Versatile HSS pickup configuration, two crisp single-coils plus a powerful bridge humbucker, unlocks everything from sparkling cleans to thick, driven tones, making this Strat a true sonic chameleon.
26. Fender American Performer
The Fender American Performer Stratocaster HSS reimagines the original solidbody icon with modern US-made excellence and unmatched value. Its versatile HSS setup delivers everything from crystalline Strat sparkle to roaring leads: two bright Yosemite single-coils with flat-staggered poles for punchy output, plus a fiery DoubleTap bridge humbucker that splits via push-pull for authentic single-coil tones. The Greasebucket tone circuit rolls off highs smoothly while preserving gain and clarity.
Built for legendary comfort, it features a sculpted alder body, satin-finished Modern “C” maple neck, and smooth-playing fingerboard, delivering the timeless feel and playability that define every great Strat.
27. Fender Jim Root
The Jim Root Stratocaster is built for earth-shaking, time-zone-sized tone. Its mahogany body delivers a darker, thicker voice than any traditional Strat, while active EMG 81 and EMG 60 pickups unleash unrelenting high-gain fury and razor-sharp articulation perfect for modern hard rock and metal.
A fast compound-radius neck (maple on Flat White, ebony on Flat Black) and jumbo frets provide effortless speed and precision from chugging riffs to blistering leads. Minimalist controls, black hardware, and a hardtail bridge keep it locked in and stage-ready. This is Slipknot’s Jim Root’s signature weapon, pure heavy destruction in Strat form.
28. Fender Jimmie Vaughan Tex-Mex
Jimmie Vaughan may stand in the shadow of his brother Stevie Ray, but his scorching Texas blues tone and impeccable feel have earned him his own legendary status. The Jimmie Vaughan Tex-Mex Strat delivers that signature fire at an unbeatable price.
An alder body, specially shaped and tinted maple neck with medium-jumbo frets, vintage hardware, and crisp single-ply white pickguard nail the classic look. Hot Tex-Mex single-coils in neck and middle combine with an extra-spicy bridge pickup and custom wiring for biting, expressive blues punch that cuts through any mix. Pure Lone Star Strat attitude, crafted for the man who helped define Texas blues.
29. Fender Kenny Wayne Shepherd
Kenny Wayne Shepherd’s scorching leads and powerhouse rhythm work have fueled nine solo albums (three platinum), epic tours with legends like Buddy Guy, Van Halen, and The Rolling Stones, and his ongoing supergroup The Rides with Stephen Stills.
His signature Stratocaster features a chambered ash body for lively, resonant tone, finished in Transparent Faded Sonic Blue to showcase the stunning grain. An early-’60s “C”-shaped maple neck with bound rosewood fingerboard and vintage 7.25" radius delivers classic comfort and feel. Loaded with three custom-voiced Kenny Wayne Shepherd pickups, it dishes out bold, full-voiced Strat tone ready to burn down the stage.
30. Fender Lincoln Brewster
Lincoln Brewster’s blazing technique and impeccable tone have made him a first-call session ace and worship guitar icon. His signature Fender Stratocaster faithfully recreates his modified ’57 reissues, built around a contoured ash body for resonant, lively response.
Three hand-selected DiMarzio single-coils deliver vintage-inspired sparkle and bite with zero hum, enhanced by a treble bleed for pristine clarity on volume rolls and an active mid-boost for thick, humbucker-like punch. The soft “V” maple neck and smooth compound-radius fingerboard provide effortless speed and comfort, while a 2-point tremolo and vintage-style locking tuners ensure rock-solid tuning stability.
A perfect blend of classic Strat soul and smart modern upgrades, the Lincoln Brewster Stratocaster is built for inspiring, worship-ready tone and feel.
31. Fender Steve Lacy People Pleaser
Steve Lacy’s genre-blurring, lo-fi psychedelic guitar sound has shaped modern records for Kendrick Lamar, Tyler, the Creator, Solange, and Vampire Weekend, often created with nothing more than a smartphone and his trusty Strat.
The Fender Steve Lacy People Pleaser Stratocaster brings that magic to life in signature form. An alder body and maple neck wear a wild Custom Chaos Burst finish, while Player Plus Noiseless single-coils deliver vintage sparkle without hum. The onboard “Chaos Fuzz” circuit unleashes Lacy’s signature warped, psychedelic textures at the flip of a switch. Built for limitless creativity across styles, this Grammy-winning artist’s Strat is ready to redefine what a Strat can do.
32. Fender Tom Morello
The Fender Tom Morello “Soul Power” Stratocaster is built to unleash the revolutionary sounds of Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave. Modeled after Morello’s heavily modified Aerodyne workhorse, it features a searing Seymour Duncan Hot Rails bridge humbucker for massive, juicy riffs, paired with two Fender Vintage Noiseless single-coils for noise-free crunch and classic Strat sparkle.
A Floyd Rose FRT-O2000 double-locking tremolo delivers everything from subtle shimmer to full-on dive bombs and siren wails. Finished in striking black with mirror pickguard, “Soul Power” graphics, and Morello’s signature touches, it includes a deluxe hardshell case and the iconic “Soul Power” decal. This is the ultimate weapon for drop-D chaos and genre-defying fury.
33. Fender Buddy Guy
The Fender Buddy Guy Standard Stratocaster honors one of Chicago blues’ most electrifying originals. Its lightweight alder body wears Buddy’s unmistakable polka-dot finish on every curve, while three vintage-style single-coil pickups dish out punchy, crisp tone loaded with snappy, expressive attack.
A smooth maple neck carved to a comfortable soft “V” profile and topped with a maple fingerboard delivers classic feel and lightning-fast response. A 6-saddle vintage synchronized tremolo ensures singing sustain and rock-solid tuning stability. Straight-ahead, no-frills, and dripping with authentic blues fire, just like Buddy himself.
34. Fender H.E.R.
H.E.R.’s soulful R&B, marked by silky rhythms and smoldering solos, has captivated audiences and earned Grammy acclaim. The Fender H.E.R. Stratocaster mirrors her bold artistry with a stunning Chrome Glow finish and anodized aluminum pickguard that demand attention.
A mid-'60s “C” maple neck offers smooth, vintage-inspired playability, while three Vintage Noiseless single-coil pickups deliver classic Strat sparkle and clarity without hum. Combining effortless feel, iconic tone, and head-turning style, this Strat is as dynamic and expressive as H.E.R.’s genre-defining performances.
35. Fender Bruno Mars
The Limited Edition Bruno Mars Stratocaster is a luxurious tribute to the pop icon’s unmistakable style and tone. Crafted from resonant ash with American Ultra body contours, it offers supreme comfort and seamless upper-fret access.
The Mars Mocha Heirloom nitrocellulose lacquer ages gracefully, enhancing resonance while delivering a beautifully worn-in look. A silky 9.5"-12" compound-radius maple fingerboard with stainless steel frets ensures effortless bends and fluid playability.
Custom Bruno Mars Strat pickups are voiced for his signature sparkling cleans and singing, soulful leads. A 2-point synchronized tremolo and deluxe locking tuners guarantee rock-solid tuning, complemented by Heirloom aged gold hardware for vintage vibe with modern performance.
Complete with a custom leopard-print strap and extra mint green pickguard, this is the ultimate funk-pop Strat.
36. Fender Michael Landau
Michael Landau’s “Coma” Stratocaster is one of the most legendary instruments in session history, heard on timeless records by Michael Jackson, Pink Floyd, Joni Mitchell, Miles Davis, and countless others. The Fender Stories Collection Michael Landau Coma Stratocaster is a meticulously crafted, limited-edition replica of that very guitar in its current, battle-worn state.
Developed in close collaboration with Landau himself, it faithfully recreates every modification made over decades: a 1959 alder body with decades of wear, custom ML Noiseless pickups voiced for his signature creamy yet biting tone, and every swap and tweak Landau has perfected since he was 16. This is the ultimate session Strat, raw, soulful, and ready to leave its mark on your music.
37. Squier Paranormal Strat-O-Sonic
The Squier Paranormal Strat-O-Sonic revives a cult-favorite early-2000s Fender design with fresh twists and bold attitude. Dual Fender-designed alnico soapbar single-coils, 3-way switching, and push/pull series/parallel plus phase options in position 2 unlock a huge palette of classic and unexpected tones.
A player-friendly 24.75" scale, slim “C” neck, speedy 12" radius fingerboard, and compensated wraparound bridge deliver effortless feel and rock-solid intonation. Finished with a glossy neck and vintage-style tuners, this Strat-O-Sonic blends familiar Strat DNA with unique sonic personality.
38. Fender Robert Cray Standard
The Fender Robert Cray Standard Stratocaster nails the soulful, sophisticated tone of the blues legend himself. Its contoured alder body delivers balanced resonance, while the glossy '60s “C” neck and smooth 9.5"-radius rosewood fingerboard provide effortless, vintage-correct playability.
Three custom-voiced vintage-style single-coils dish out everything from bell-like cleans to biting, vocal blues leads, with modern 5-way switching for instant access to every classic Strat voice. Vintage-style tuners, a rock-solid hardtail bridge, signature headstock logo, and gleaming gloss finish complete the package. This is pure Robert Cray firepower, your ultimate blues weapon, ready to testify.
39. Fender Cory Wong
Cory Wong’s infectious funk rhythm work and inventive leads have made him a modern guitar hero with Vulfpeck and beyond. The Cory Wong Stratocaster is a loving tribute to his favorite Strat, meticulously refined to match the funk master’s exacting needs.
A slightly smaller alder body in Sapphire Blue Transparent satin, paired with an American Ultra Modern “D” neck and sculpted contours, delivers effortless comfort and playability. Custom-voiced Seymour Duncan Cory Wong Clean Machine™ pickups nail his signature tight, articulate Strat quack and chime.
A rosewood board with rolled edges and 10–14" compound radius, vintage 6-screw tremolo, deluxe locking tuners, and a push/push Tone 2 pot that jumps straight to “Position 4” (Cory’s go-to rhythm voice) complete the package. Includes his signature hair tie for spring muting, straplocks, and custom neck plate. This is pure, stage-ready funk in a bottle.
40. Squier Sonic Series
The Squier Sonic Stratocaster packs timeless Strat style, reliable construction, and genuine playability into an ideal first guitar. Its lightweight S-style poplar body and bolt-on maple neck with satin finish deliver comfort and durability for years of playing.
Equipped with three punchy ceramic single-coils, a classic 6-saddle hardtail bridge, and intuitive controls, it offers authentic Strat sparkle and endless tonal exploration. Perfect for beginners yet versatile enough for any style, the Sonic Stratocaster is a proven, affordable gateway to the iconic Fender legacy.
41. Fender Juanes Signature
Colombian superstar Juanes, known for global hits like “La Camisa Negra” and “A Dios le Pido” brings his passionate voice and versatile guitar style to the Fender Juanes Signature Stratocaster. Built around one of Juanes’ own favorite Strats, it blends timeless alder body, maple neck, and maple fingerboard tone with modern performance upgrades.
Two Custom Juanes Ultra Noiseless single-coils deliver sparkling, noise-free Strat chime, while a Custom Juanes Alnico II bridge humbucker adds thick, contemporary crunch, all accessible via a 5-way switch. A smooth 2-point synchronized tremolo, comfortable Modern “C” neck, and locking tuners ensure effortless playability and rock-solid tuning. From rhythmic chord work to soaring leads, the Juanes Strat is the perfect companion for expressive, genre-spanning artistry.
42. Fender Tash Sultana
Tash Sultana’s electrifying loop-driven performances have made them a global phenomenon, and the Fender Tash Sultana Stratocaster is the signature instrument that powers their genre-defying sound. Built around a resonant alder body and a versatile HSS pickup array, it delivers everything from crystalline cleans to thick, singing leads.
A fast Modern “C” neck, 9.5"-radius fingerboard, sealed staggered tuners, and 6-saddle vintage-style tremolo ensure effortless playability and rock-solid tuning. Finished with a striking 3-ply aged white pearl pickguard, gold hardware, matching headstock, and gloss polyester sheen, this Strat is as visually captivating as Tash’s boundary-pushing artistry.
43. Fender Tom DeLonge
Tom DeLonge reunites with Fender to revive his signature Stratocaster. This no-frills powerhouse features a single Seymour Duncan Invader humbucker, delivering massive output and aggressive tone ideal for crushing power chords and gritty riffs.
A streamlined master volume with treble bleed preserves sparkling highs and classic edge-of-breakup chime. The modern “C” neck, 9.5" radius rosewood board, and medium jumbo frets ensure fast, comfortable playability. Vintage-style tuners, hardtail bridge with block saddles, and a custom neck plate bearing DeLonge’s original artwork complete the iconic look and rock-solid tuning stability.
Whether channeling Blink’s signature sound or craving a unique, hard-hitting Strat, the Tom DeLonge Stratocaster is an essential, knockout addition to any collection.
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If you’re thinking about getting a Stratocaster, you’re entering a world full of options. The Strat has been around since the 1950s, and guitar makers have built countless variations to match different playing styles. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand what matters and what you should look for before buying one.
What Makes a Stratocaster a “Strat”?
The basic idea stays the same:
– Three single-coil pickups (or some variation of that).
– A comfortable, contoured body.
– A bright, snappy tone with plenty of clarity.
– A 5-way switch for lots of sound options.
– A tremolo bridge (often called a “whammy bar”).
Players love them because they feel smooth, bend easily, and work well for almost any style, blues, rock, funk, indie, pop, and even some metal with the right setup.
Pickup configuration: SSS or HSS?
Most Strats come in one of two common pickup layouts:
– SSS (three single-coils): The classic, sparkly, clean tone. Great for funk, blues, and vintage-style rock.
– HSS (humbucker + two single-coils): A more modern setup. The bridge humbucker gives you more power for rock, punk, or heavier styles, while the neck and middle pickups keep that traditional Strat feel.
If you want full classic Strat tone, go SSS. If you want versatility and plan to use more distortion, go HSS.
Neck Shape and Feel
Strats come with different neck shapes, and this affects comfort:
– Modern C-shape: Most common and easy to play.
– V-shape: Feels more vintage and can be great for bluesy bends.
– Thick U-shape: Chunkier and loved by players with bigger hands.
Try a few if you can. Neck shape matters more than many people realize.
Tremolo Systems: Vintage vs. Modern
They usually have a tremolo bridge, but the type can change your playing experience:
– Vintage 6-screw tremolo: Classic feel and sound. Slightly less stable but full of character.
– 2-point modern tremolo: Smoother action and better tuning stability.
If you plan to use the whammy bar a lot, the modern one might be best choice for you.
Tone Tips and Practical Advice
They can sound bright, sometimes even too bright. If that happens:
– Roll the tone knob down slightly.
– Use the neck pickup for a warmer sound.
– Add a bit of compression for clean tones.
For rock sounds, a tube screamer or simple overdrive pedal works perfectly with a Strat.
Final Thoughts
The Stratocaster is famous for a reason: it’s comfortable, expressive, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you want vintage charm, modern power, or something in between, there’s a Strat out there that fits your style.
Remember, the “best” Strat is the one that feels right in your hands and inspires you to play more. Try different models, compare tones, and trust what feels good to you.


