Squier Standard vs Affinity: Which Squier Is Right for You?
Choosing your first electric guitar can be an exciting but daunting task. The Squier brand offers an accessible entry point for aspiring guitarists, but with different series, the decision can be tricky. Today, we’re diving into a head-to-head comparison to help you find the perfect Squier for your needs.
We’ll be putting the Squier Standard and the Squier Affinity series under the microscope. Both offer a taste of iconic Fender designs at a budget-friendly price. Understanding the key differences will guide you in choosing the one that best suits your playing style, budget, and musical aspirations.
From the quality of components to the overall feel and playability, we’ll break down everything you need to know. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to upgrade your current setup, this comparison of the Squier Standard vs Affinity will help you make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Squier Standard | Affinity |
|---|---|---|
| Body Wood | Alder (typically) | Poplar (typically) |
| Neck Wood | Maple | Maple |
| Neck Profile | Modern C | Modern C |
| Fingerboard Material | Indian Laurel or Maple | Indian Laurel or Maple |
| Frets | 22 Medium Jumbo | 20 Medium Jumbo |
| Pickups | Alnico V Single-Coil (typically) | Ceramic Single-Coil |
| Bridge | 2-Point Synchronized Tremolo | 6-Saddle Vintage-Style Tremolo |
| Tuners | Standard Die-Cast | Standard Die-Cast |
| Scale Length | 25.5″ | 25.5″ |
| Nut Width | 1.650″ | 1.650″ |
| Controls | Volume, Tone, 5-Way Switch | Volume, Tone, 5-Way Switch |
| Pickguard | 3-Ply | 3-Ply |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Body Wood
- Squier Standard: Typically features alder or agathis wood, known for balanced tone and good sustain. Offers a solid feel and is often routed well. May be slightly heavier than the Affinity.
- Affinity: Often uses alder or poplar, which is generally lighter and can be more affordable. May sometimes exhibit less resonance compared to higher-end woods, but still provides a playable platform.
- Winner: Standard
Neck Construction
- Squier Standard: Usually has a more modern C-shaped neck profile, often with a satin finish for smoother playability. Provides a comfortable feel for a wide range of players.
- Affinity: Typically features a thinner C-shaped neck profile, which may be preferred by players with smaller hands. Can sometimes feel less substantial than the Standard.
- Winner: Standard
Frets and Fingerboard
- Squier Standard: Often has medium jumbo frets, which can provide better sustain and easier bending. Fingerboard materials vary, usually rosewood or maple.
- Affinity: Typically uses narrower frets. Fingerboard materials vary, usually rosewood or maple.
- Winner: Standard
Pickups
- Squier Standard: Equipped with standard Squier pickups, which can deliver a decent tone for the price point. Pickup quality can vary, but generally offers a good starting point.
- Affinity: Often uses lower-cost pickups, which may lack the clarity and output of the Standard. Sound can be a bit muddy or thin.
- Winner: Standard
Hardware
- Squier Standard: Generally features better quality hardware, including tuners and a bridge, which can improve tuning stability and overall performance.
- Affinity: Hardware is typically of a lower grade, which might require more frequent adjustments and potentially affect sustain and intonation.
- Winner: Standard
Electronics
- Squier Standard: Uses better quality pots and switches, contributing to a more reliable and responsive playing experience.
- Affinity: Electronics are often the area where cost is cut, potentially leading to scratchy pots or noisy switches.
- Winner: Standard
Finish and Aesthetics
- Squier Standard: Often features a more polished finish and better overall aesthetic appeal. May have more color options and a slightly more premium look and feel.
- Affinity: Finish and aesthetics are often simplified to keep costs down. May lack some of the visual refinements of the Standard.
- Winner: Standard
Price
- Squier Standard: Generally priced higher than the Affinity, reflecting the improved build quality and components.
- Affinity: Significantly more affordable, making it a great option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
- Winner: Affinity
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Quality | Squier Standard |
| Pickups | Squier Standard |
| Value for Money | Affinity |
| Tremolo System | Squier Standard |
| Beginner Suitability | Affinity |
What They Have in Common:
- Scale Length: Both guitars share the standard 25.5-inch scale length, contributing to a familiar feel and string tension for most players. This consistency makes transitioning between the two models relatively seamless.
- Neck Profile: Both the Standard and Affinity series guitars feature a modern “C” neck profile, which is generally comfortable for a wide range of hand sizes and playing styles, providing a balanced feel.
- Tuners: Both guitars are equipped with standard die-cast tuners, which offer decent tuning stability for beginner to intermediate players.
- Controls: Both guitars share the same standard control layout, including a volume knob, a tone knob, and a 5-way pickup selector switch, ensuring consistent and familiar operation.
- Body Contours: Both guitars have the classic Stratocaster body contours, providing comfort for playing while sitting or standing.
Squier Standard Vs Affinity Buying Guide
Understanding Your Needs
Before diving into the Standard vs. Affinity debate, consider your musical aspirations and budget. Are you a complete beginner, or do you have some experience? What genres of music do you plan to play? The Affinity series is generally more budget-friendly, making it an excellent starting point. The Standard series often offers slightly better components and build quality, which might be preferable if you’re looking for a guitar that can grow with you. Think about the features that are most important to you, such as the type of pickups, the neck profile, and the overall feel of the instrument.
Budget Considerations
Price is a significant factor. The Affinity series is designed to be affordable, making it accessible to a wider audience. The Standard series usually costs more, reflecting its better components and often improved craftsmanship. Set a clear budget before you start shopping. Factor in the cost of accessories like a case, amplifier, and strap. Remember that investing a little more initially might save you money in the long run if it means you get a guitar that you’ll enjoy playing for years to come. Weigh the initial cost against the potential longevity and playability of each series.
Playability and Comfort
The feel of the guitar is crucial. Try both the Standard and Affinity series if possible, and pay attention to the neck profile, the action (how high the strings are off the fretboard), and the overall weight of the instrument. A comfortable guitar will encourage you to practice more. The Standard series guitars often have smoother finishes and better fretwork, leading to a more comfortable playing experience. The Affinity series is still generally comfortable, but the Standard may have a slight edge in this area.
Build Quality and Materials
Build quality directly impacts a guitar’s tone and durability. The Standard series typically uses higher-quality woods and hardware, resulting in a more resonant sound and a longer lifespan. Consider the type of wood used for the body and neck, as this influences the guitar’s tone and sustain. The hardware, such as the tuners and bridge, also plays a role in tuning stability and overall performance. Inspect the guitar carefully for any imperfections in the finish or construction before making a purchase. The Standard series is known for its better build quality.
Features and Specifications
Compare the specific features of each model. Look at the type of pickups (single-coil, humbucker), the number of frets, the bridge design, and the overall electronics. Different pickup configurations offer different tonal possibilities. Consider your preferred style of music and the tones you want to achieve. The Standard series may offer more advanced features, such as better pickups or more versatile electronics. Check the specifications for the specific models you are considering, as they can vary within each series.
Sound and Tone
Ultimately, the sound of the guitar is what matters most. Listen to sound samples or, ideally, try both guitars in person. Consider the type of music you want to play and the tone you are trying to achieve. The Standard series generally has a more refined and resonant tone due to its higher-quality components. However, the Affinity series can still produce excellent sounds, especially for beginners. The pickups and overall construction of the guitar significantly influence its sound. Consider which guitar best suits your preferred musical style.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Squier Standard If…
- You want a guitar with higher quality components and slightly better overall build quality.
- You are looking for a guitar with pickups that offer a more vintage-inspired tone.
- You want a guitar with a 2-point tremolo system for smoother action.
- You plan to upgrade components later.
Buy Affinity If…
- You’re a beginner on a tight budget.
- You want a guitar that is readily available and easy to find.
- You are looking for a solid, reliable instrument to learn on.
- You prioritize affordability above all else.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between Squier Standard and Affinity guitars?
The primary differences lie in build quality, materials, and features. Standard models often feature better components, such as higher-quality wood, upgraded hardware, and improved pickups, leading to a more resonant and durable instrument. The Affinity series is designed for affordability, using cost-effective materials and simpler construction techniques to make it accessible to beginners, which makes the Standard a better option for advanced players.
Which Squier series is better for beginners?
Both series are great for beginners. The Affinity series is typically recommended due to its lower price point, making it easier to start without a significant investment. However, if you are planning to play seriously, the Standard series may be beneficial, as its better build quality and components can help you grow as a player. The Standard will be a better long-term option.
Are Squier Standard guitars made in the same factory as Fender guitars?
No, Squier guitars are not made in the same factories as Fender guitars. Squier guitars are typically manufactured in factories located in Asia, while Fender guitars have factories in the US and Mexico, as well as Asia. This allows Squier to keep its costs down and reach a wider market, while still providing quality instruments to the public.
Do Squier Standard guitars use the same pickups as Fender guitars?
No, Squier Standard guitars do not use the exact same pickups as Fender guitars. While Squier pickups are designed to emulate the sound of Fender pickups, they are typically made with different materials and manufacturing processes to keep the cost down. The Standard series guitars often have better pickups than the Affinity series, which are closer to the Fender sound.
What is the difference in neck profiles between Standard and Affinity?
The neck profiles can vary between different models within each series, but generally, the Standard series necks are built to higher standards, with better fretwork and finishes. This can lead to a more comfortable playing experience. The Affinity series necks are designed to be comfortable and easy to play for beginners, but the Standard series often offers a slightly more refined feel.
Which Squier series holds its value better?
Generally, Squier Standard guitars tend to hold their value slightly better than Affinity models due to their better build quality and components. However, the value retention of any guitar, even a Squier, can depend on the specific model, condition, and market demand. Both series depreciate significantly compared to Fender guitars.
Can I upgrade the pickups on a Squier guitar?
Yes, you can upgrade the pickups on both Squier Standard and Affinity guitars. Upgrading the pickups is a popular modification to improve the tone of your guitar. This can significantly enhance the instrument’s sound quality, allowing you to tailor the tone to your preferences. Remember to consider the pickup type and compatibility with your guitar’s electronics.
Final Verdict
The Squier Standard and Affinity series both offer excellent value for money, but they cater to different needs. The Standard series provides a noticeable upgrade in build quality, components, and overall playability, making it a better choice for more experienced players or those looking for a guitar that can last. The Affinity series is a perfect starting point for beginners on a budget.
Winner: Squier Standard