I’ve purchased three used guitars using two of these sites (Reverb and Craigslist). I’m confident you’ll be able to find a great used guitar on one of these sites.
The sites in this list will vary in size of inventory, shipping costs, and return policy. Some are marketplaces, while others are retailers. Most will offer search filters (model, price, year, etc.) to help you narrow your results. I’ve added tips for several sites regarding features to take advantage of, such as the “follow” feature on Reverb.
Here are the sites where to buy used guitars online:
- Reverb
- eBay
- Guitar Center
- Musician’s Friend
- Sam Ash
- Sweetwater Used Gear Marketplace
- Craigslist
- Local Stores
Reverb
Reverb is an online marketplace of independent sellers specializing in new and used music gear. It’s currently my favorite site when shopping for a used guitar. The site has a vibrant community with a great selection from trustworthy sellers. I recently purchased an electric guitar on Reverb and am very happy with it. The item arrived well packaged and exactly as described.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 50,739
- Used acoustic guitars: 18,977
Return Policy
All purchases are backed by Reverb Protection. You have seven days from delivery to raise any issues if the item is damaged or not as described.
Shipping
Sellers set the cost of shipping. Consider negotiating the rate with the seller.
Tip
Use Reverb’s “Follow this Search” filter to create a personalized digest. After executing a search and adding search filters, save the search and activate the daily digest email. You’ll be notified via email of any new listings that match your search criteria. You can also add listings to your watchlist and get an email when anything about the listing changes.
eBay
eBay is an online marketplace of independent sellers selling all types of products. It’s one of the most well known internet marketplaces. The inventory of used guitars is huge so you’ll be able to find something you like.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 100,323
- Used acoustic guitars: 7,459
Return Policy
If you receive a damaged item, the wrong item, or it doesn’t match the listing description, you can return it. See eBay’s return policy for details.
Shipping
Sellers set the cost of shipping. Consider negotiating the rate with the seller.
Tip
eBay is a marketplace, so you’ll be able to bid on certain guitars. While this may be fun and get you a deal, you risk getting outbid. Look for guitars that have the “buy now” option to instantly purchase the guitar. Check a seller’s rating and reviews to ensure that they are a reputable seller.
Guitar Center
Guitar Center is a music retailer that has an online store and physical stores in the US. It’s a great site to buy a used guitar because you’ll know the guitar is properly set up and in good condition.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 4,012
- Used acoustic guitars: 1,547
Return Policy
45 day satisfaction guarantee. See the Guitar Center Return Policy for details.
Shipping
Calculated at checkout. Some items qualify for free shipping. You can save on shipping costs if you ship and then pick up the guitar at a Guitar Center store. See store locations.
Tip
Guitar Center offers a paid “Pro Coverage” plan to protect your used guitar. Also check out the “open box” search filter to find an almost new guitar at a discounted price.
Musician’s Friend
Musician’s Friend is an online music retailer. It’s owned by Guitar Center so you’ll see similar products on both websites.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 3,868
- Used acoustic guitars: 1,515
Return Policy
45 day satisfaction guarantee. See the Musician’s Friend Return Policy for details.
Shipping
Calculated at checkout. Some items qualify for free shipping.
Sam Ash
Sam Ash is an online and physical retailer with stores in the US.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 121
- Used acoustic guitars: 39
Return Policy
45 day satisfaction guarantee. See the Sam Ash 45-day money back return guarantee.
Shipping
Most orders over $49 qualify for free shipping. You can also ship the guitar to your local store for free. Check out their store locations here.
Sweetwater Used Gear Marketplace
Sweetwater Used Gear Marketplace is a marketplace created by Sweetwater, an online music gear retailer. The marketplace is a simple bulletin board that matches sellers with buyers. Sweetwater does not partake in the transactions.
Inventory
- Used electric guitars: 209
- Used acoustic guitars: 81
Return Policy
None. This is like buying a guitar on craigslist. You’ll be on your own to negotiate with the seller.
Shipping
Sellers set the cost of shipping. Consider negotiating the rate with the seller.
Craigslist
Craigslist is a local classifieds website. It is broken up by local regions. You’ll have to navigate to the musical instruments section of the site to find guitars. For example in New York City, guitars are found within the “for sale > music instr” section. I purchased my acoustic guitar on Craigslist and had a pleasant experience. A sale is usually done in person and most sellers ask for cash.
Inventory
This will vary by region. Currently in New York City:
- Used electric guitars: 208
- Used acoustic guitars: 202
Return Policy
None. You negotiate this with the seller.
Shipping
Most sales are typically done in person. But if the seller is willing to ship, the rate will be negotiated between you and the seller.
Local Stores
Local stores are a great option when buying a used guitar. Open Google Maps and search for “guitar store” to see what is in your area. Buying from a local store increases the likelihood that the guitar is in good working order and properly set up. And if you have any issues with your guitar, you’ll be able to bring it in for maintenance.
Here are some of my favorite local guitar stores in New York City:
Closing Tip
When buying a used guitar on a marketplace, look for sellers that are music stores. I find the quality of used guitars from music stores tend to be higher compared to buying from an individual. A music store will often have the guitar professionally set up and will be in great working order.
