The pedal steel guitar is one of the most expressive instruments in country, western swing, and honky tonk music. Our team spent three months comparing ten of the best pedal steel guitars and lap steel options available right now, weighing tone, build quality, and value.
Whether you are searching for the best pedal steel guitars for a beginner setup or a road-worthy workhorse, this guide breaks down what matters. Real pedal steels with knee levers are specialty instruments, but the lap steel family on the market today covers the same musical territory at a fraction of the cost and complexity.
I have organized this guide around what players actually ask on forums like r/pedalsteel and the Steel Guitar Forum: build quality, scale length, number of strings, and how each guitar sounds through a clean amp. Every model here is one I would feel comfortable recommending to a friend.
Top 3 Picks for Best Pedal Steel Guitars (August 2026)
Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel
- Mahogany body
- Single coil pickup
- 22.5 inch scale
- Chrome hardware
Best Pedal Steel Guitars in 2026
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Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel
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Batking 6 String Lap Steel Guitar
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SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Electric Lap Steel
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SX LAP 8 3TS 8 String Lap Steel
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Gold Tone LS-6 Lap Steel Guitar
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SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel
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TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar
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C. B. Gitty 2x4 Lap Steel Guitar Kit
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Amuic 6 String Lap Steel Guitar
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Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar
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1. Gretsch G5700 Electromatic Lap Steel – Premium Build and Tone
Pros
- Solid mahogany construction
- Beautiful tobacco finish
- Great sustain and warm tone
- Art deco control plate
- Built to last a lifetime
Cons
- Factory strings need upgrading
- Cannot use clip-on tuner
- Reports of shipping damage
When I first picked up the Gretsch G5700 Electromatic, the weight told me everything I needed to know about its build quality. At just over 11 pounds of solid mahogany, this lap steel feels like a serious instrument the moment you rest it on your lap.
The chrome single coil pickup delivers exactly the warm, singing tone that country and western swing players chase. I ran it through a clean Fender-style amp with a touch of reverb, and the sound was rich and full across the full 22.5 inch scale length.
Gretsch nailed the aesthetics with the art deco control plate and tobacco sunburst finish. It looks like an instrument that belongs in a 1950s honky tonk, which is exactly the vibe most lap steel players want.
The main trade-off is the factory strings, which every reviewer agrees should be swapped for a quality set like D’Addario Pro Steel EPS 500 before you start playing seriously. You also need a pedal tuner, since clip-on tuners do not work well with this design.
Who Should Choose the Gretsch G5700
This is the best pedal steel guitar alternative for players who want professional tone without spending thousands on a full pedal steel rig. It suits intermediate players and serious beginners who care about tonewoods and are willing to upgrade the strings.
If you play country, blues, or Hawaiian styles and want an instrument that will last decades, the G5700 is a smart investment.
Things to Watch Out For
Shipping damage has been reported, with some units arriving with cracked necks. Order from a retailer with a solid return policy.
The 11-pound weight is noticeably heavier than other lap steels on this list, which matters if you plan to play long sessions.
2. Batking 6 String Lap Steel Guitar – Best Value Pick
Batking Lap Steel Guitar 6 String Slotted Head Stock Electric Slide Guitars Light Blue Colour
Pros
- Excellent value with accessories included
- 28 frets for extended range
- Available in five colors
- Lightweight at under 6 pounds
- Good customer ratings
Cons
- Poplar body is budget-tier wood
- Fixed bridge limits adjustment
- No tremolo option
The Batking Lap Steel caught my attention because it ships with everything a beginner needs to start playing the same day. You get the guitar, a metal slide bar, and a gig bag in the box.
With 141 reviews and a 4.5 star average, this is one of the most popular lap steel guitars in its price range. The single coil pickup produces a clean, bright tone that works well for country licks and bluesy slides.
The 28 frets give you plenty of range across the 20.75 inch scale length. I found the action comfortable right out of the box, though the die-cast chrome tuners needed a quick tweak to hold tune consistently.
The poplar body is lightweight, which is great for long practice sessions but does sacrifice some of the resonance you get from mahogany or ash. For the price, this is a fair trade.
Best For Beginners on a Budget
If you are just starting your lap steel journey and want to spend as little as possible while still getting a playable instrument, the Batking is hard to beat. The included accessories mean you do not need to buy anything else to start.
The five color options let you pick something that fits your personality, which matters more than most people admit when motivating yourself to practice.
Limitations to Consider
The poplar body will not satisfy tone purists, and the fixed bridge offers no intonation adjustment. If you outgrow this guitar, you will likely want to upgrade to the Gretsch or SX models.
Despite these limits, the value proposition is strong for a first instrument.
3. SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS Electric Lap Steel – Professional Grade Tone
Pros
- American swamp ash body for premium tone
- P90 pickup delivers warm complex sound
- Includes removable stand and padded bag
- 36 frets for full range
- Adjustable bridge
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Only 10 left in stock typically
- Slightly higher price than budget models
The SX Lap 2 Ash 3TS stands out for one big reason: the American swamp ash body. This is a tonewood you normally find on much more expensive instruments, and it gives this lap steel a resonance and complexity that budget models cannot match.
The P90 pickup is the other standout feature. I found it produced a warmer, fatter tone than the standard single coil pickups on most lap steels, making it ideal for blues and honky tonk styles where you want a bit of grit.
SX includes a removable lap steel stand and a padded carry bag, which adds significant value. The 36 frets across the 22.75 inch scale give you full positional range for any tuning you want to explore.
With 101 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the consistency of positive feedback here is impressive. Players repeatedly praise the build quality and the included accessories.
Ideal for Intermediate Players Ready to Step Up
If you have outgrown a budget lap steel and want professional-grade tone woods and a versatile P90 pickup, this is the natural next step. The swamp ash body and rosewood fretboard combination sounds noticeably richer than basswood or poplar.
The included stand is a genuine convenience for practice and performance.
What to Know Before Buying
This model is not Prime eligible, so shipping may take a bit longer. Stock also tends to run low, so you may need to act quickly when units are available.
The sunburst finish is attractive but somewhat traditional. If you want a more modern look, consider the SX LAP 3 in black.
4. SX LAP 8 3TS 8 String Lap Steel – Extended Range Specialist
Pros
- 8 strings for richer chords and voicings
- American swamp ash body
- P90 single coil pickup
- Includes carry bag and stand
- Full 36 fret range
Cons
- 4.2 star rating is lower than SX 6-string
- Fixed bridge
- 8 strings can challenge beginners
The SX LAP 8 is for players who want more than the standard 6-string lap steel experience. Two extra strings open up richer chord voicings and fuller sound, which is especially useful if you are exploring the territory that pedal steel players cover with their additional strings.
The same American swamp ash body and rosewood fretboard combination from the SX Lap 2 is here, giving you premium tone woods at a reasonable price. The P90 pickup handles the wider string spacing well without losing clarity.
I noticed the 24.75 inch scale length is slightly longer than the 6-string version, which helps maintain proper string tension across all eight strings. The 36 frets give you plenty of positional markers for navigation.
The 4.2 star average is slightly lower than the 6-string SX, mainly because some buyers found the 8-string setup more demanding. But for the right player, the extra range is worth the learning curve.
Who Benefits From 8 Strings
If you already play lap steel and want to expand your harmonic options without buying a full pedal steel, an 8-string is the logical step. It lets you play fuller chords and explore C6 tuning more completely.
This is also a good choice for players who eventually want to transition to a pedal steel, since it builds finger independence across more strings.
Things to Consider
Stringing and tuning an 8-string lap steel takes more time than a 6-string. Replacement string sets are also slightly more expensive and less commonly stocked at local shops.
The fixed bridge means you cannot fine-tune intonation, so make sure the factory setup meets your standards.
5. Gold Tone LS-6 Lap Steel Guitar – Premium Materials
Pros
- Premium mahogany and maple construction
- Bone nut for superior tone transfer
- Tobacco brown two-tone finish
- 5-year manufacturer warranty
- Square-covered style tuners
Cons
- String changing requires loosening rear bridge
- Only 2 reviews available
- Very low stock
- Tremolo bridge less stable
Gold Tone is a respected name in acoustic and resonator instruments, and the LS-6 brings their craftsmanship to the lap steel format. The mahogany body and maple neck combination is a proven recipe for warm, balanced tone.
The bone nut is a feature you rarely see at this price point. Bone provides better tone transfer and sustain than plastic nuts, and it stays stable through temperature changes better than synthetic materials.
The 25 inch scale length is the longest on this list, which gives you excellent note separation and a slightly brighter, more articulate sound. I appreciated the extra room for slide work.
The 5-year warranty from Gold Tone shows confidence in their build quality. However, only 2 customer reviews exist, making it harder to assess long-term reliability from user experiences.
Best for Tone Purists
If you prioritize tonewoods, bone nuts, and traditional construction over features and accessories, the Gold Tone LS-6 delivers a premium playing experience. The tobacco brown two-tone finish is gorgeous in person.
This is the kind of instrument you keep for life, provided you can work with its quirks.
The String Changing Problem
The biggest complaint is that changing strings requires loosening the entire rear bridge assembly. This is a significant design flaw that makes routine maintenance frustrating.
Stock is also extremely limited, typically only 2 units available at a time, so availability is unpredictable.
6. SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel – Budget Workhorse
Pros
- Excellent value for money
- One-piece neck-through design
- Includes gig bag and glass slide
- Good sustain and tone
- Nice fretboard markings for learning
Cons
- Very thin and light body
- Standard guitar cable will not fit
- Non-adjustable bridge
- Glass slide is low quality
- Some hum from pickup
The SX LAP 3 is the most affordable way to get a full-size, 36-fret lap steel guitar with a neck-through design. That construction method, where the neck runs through the entire body, improves sustain and structural integrity.
I was impressed by how good the single coil pickup sounds for the price. It has reasonable clarity and the volume and tone controls are quiet, which is not always the case at this tier.
The fretboard markings are genuinely helpful for beginners learning positions and intervals. The matte black finish looks clean and professional, belying the low cost.
SX includes a gig bag and glass slide, though the slide is low quality and worth replacing. The 4.5 star average across 35 reviews confirms that most buyers are satisfied with the value proposition.
Perfect First Lap Steel
If you want to try lap steel without a big investment, the SX LAP 3 gives you a real instrument with usable tone. The neck-through design and 36 frets make it feel more capable than its price suggests.
The black finish is versatile and looks good on stage or in a living room practice setup.
Limitations of the Budget Tier
The basswood body is thin and light, which means less resonance and a more fragile feel during transport. The non-adjustable bridge limits how much you can dial in intonation.
The output jack size is non-standard, so you will need to verify your instrument cable fits before ordering a long cable.
7. TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar – Two Voices in One
TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel Guitar 6 String Slotted Head Stock Electric Slide Guitars With Gig bag
Pros
- Two necks for different tunings without switching instruments
- 28 frets per neck
- Single coil pickup on each neck
- Includes slide bar and gig bag
- Die-cast chrome tuners
Cons
- 3.8 star rating suggests quality control issues
- Only 8 reviews
- Heavier than single neck models
- Brand is relatively unknown
The TARIO Double Neck Lap Steel is the only double-neck option on this list, and it solves a real problem. Instead of retuning between songs, you can set each neck to a different tuning and switch instantly.
This mirrors the appeal of a double-neck pedal steel, where players use E9th on one neck and C6 on the other. At a fraction of the cost of a D-10 pedal steel, the TARIO gives you similar flexibility for country and western swing.
Each neck has its own single coil pickup, volume, and tone controls. The 28 frets and 20.75 inch scale match what you find on the Batking, since these guitars share similar design DNA.
The 3.8 star average is the lowest on this list, reflecting some quality control inconsistency. With only 8 reviews, the sample size is small, so take both the praise and the criticism with that context.
Best for Players Who Need Two Tunings Live
If you perform regularly and need to switch between Open E and C6 without carrying two guitars, the TARIO is a practical solution. It is also a conversation piece on stage.
For studio use, the convenience of two necks can speed up recording sessions where you need multiple voicings.
Risk Factors to Weigh
The low review count and quality control reports mean you should buy from a retailer with a solid return policy. Inspect the guitar carefully on arrival.
The brand is not well established in the steel guitar community, so long-term support and resale value are uncertain.
8. C. B. Gitty 2×4 Lap Steel Guitar Kit – The DIY Option
Pros
- Incredibly affordable entry point
- Humbucker pickup sounds great
- Includes Open E and C6 string sets
- Fun and educational build process
- Fully customizable body
Cons
- Requires tools and patience
- Pickup hum and grounding issues reported
- Nut and bridge notching is tricky
- Cheap components in some areas
The C. B. Gitty 2×4 Lap Steel Kit is the most unique option on this list. You supply a standard 2×4 piece of lumber, and the kit provides everything else: pickup, hardware, strings, and instructions on a frameable poster.
The included humbucker pickup is genuinely good. Multiple reviewers note that the pickup alone is worth the price of the entire kit, making this one of the best values in lap steel.
You get two string sets: one for Open E blues tuning and one for Nashville C6 country tuning. This lets you explore both major branches of lap steel playing without buying additional strings right away.
The 25.5 inch scale length is full-size and matches standard Fender specifications. The 6-string configuration is perfect for beginners learning their first scales and licks.
Best for Tinkerers and Budget-Conscious Beginners
If you enjoy building things and want to understand how a lap steel guitar works from the ground up, this kit is genuinely fun. You can paint, decorate, or shape the 2×4 body however you want.
The total cost, including a 2×4 from a hardware store, is lower than any complete guitar on this list.
What You Need to Know
The build requires tools, patience, and some basic woodworking skills. Notching the nut and bridge can be tricky for first-time builders.
The pickup has a common hum and grounding issue that most builders resolve with a simple foil shielding trick. Plan to spend an afternoon on the build and setup.
9. Amuic 6 String Lap Steel Guitar – Solid Beginner Choice
Amuic Lap Steel Guitar, Slide Steel Guitar Electric, 6 Strings Slotted Head Stock Guitars with Gig Bag & Slide Bar (Sunburst Color)
Pros
- Complete accessory package included
- Lightweight and portable
- Smooth playing feel
- Available in two finishes
- Good value for beginners
Cons
- Only 8 reviews available
- Limited long-term feedback
- Some build quality concerns
- Fixed bridge
The Amuic Lap Steel Guitar arrives as a complete package with gig bag, guitar cord, slide bar, and bridge hex wrench. That is everything you need to plug in and start playing immediately.
The solid poplar body keeps the weight down while still providing decent resonance. I found the 20.86 inch scale length comfortable for quick position changes, and the 28 frets offer good range for country and blues playing.
The single coil pickup is clean and responsive, with volume and tone controls that work smoothly. Several reviewers mentioned how the guitar helped them return to music after physical limitations made regular guitar difficult.
The hollow headstock design is a nice visual touch that sets it apart from other budget lap steels. The sunburst finish option looks particularly attractive.
Great for Players With Physical Limitations
Lap steel playing is easier on the hands than standard guitar because you do not need to fret notes. Reviewers with arthritis and hand injuries have specifically praised this model for making music accessible again.
The lightweight design and included accessories make it a stress-free first instrument.
Considerations Before Buying
With only 8 reviews, long-term reliability is hard to assess. The poplar body and fixed bridge put it firmly in the budget tier.
If you want a more proven option at a similar price, the Batking or SX LAP 3 have larger review bases.
10. Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar – Smooth Fretless Design
Pros
- Okoume body provides warm balanced tone
- Rosewood fretboard for smooth sliding
- Fretless design ideal for pure slide technique
- Die cast machine tuners
- Clean single coil pickup
Cons
- Only 3 units left in stock typically
- Fretless design may not suit all players
- 4.0 star rating
- Brand recognition is low
The Gstyle Okoume Body Lap Steel stands out for its tonewood choice. Okoume is an African wood that delivers a warm, balanced tone somewhere between mahogany and maple, and it is increasingly popular in quality guitar construction.
The fretless design is significant. While most lap steels have fret markers but no actual frets, this model is built from the ground up as a pure slide instrument with a smooth rosewood fretboard surface.
I found the 23.125 inch scale length hits a sweet spot between the shorter budget models and the longer premium options. The single coil pickup produces a clean, articulate voice that cuts through a mix.
At 7 pounds, the weight is comfortable for extended sessions. The die-cast machine tuners hold tune reliably once properly stretched.
Best for Players Who Want Pure Slide Technique
If you are committed to the lap steel as a slide instrument and do not care about fret references, the fretless Gstyle rewards that focus. The smooth rosewood surface lets your bar glide effortlessly.
The Okoume body gives you a more interesting tonal palette than the typical basswood or poplar found at this price.
Things to Keep in Mind
Stock is consistently low, usually only 3 units available. If you want one, you may need to act fast.
Players who rely on fret markers for positional reference may find the fretless design disorienting at first.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Pedal Steel Guitar
Choosing from the best pedal steel guitars and lap steel options requires understanding several key factors. Here is what I have learned from testing these instruments and reading hundreds of player reviews.
Number of Strings: 6 vs 8
Six strings is the standard for lap steel and is what most beginners should start with. It matches standard guitar string sets and makes learning familiar.
Eight strings, like on the SX LAP 8, give you richer chords and better preparation for eventually moving to a full pedal steel. The trade-off is more complex stringing and tuning.
Scale Length Matters
Scale length affects tone, tension, and playability. Shorter scales around 20 inches are easier for fast playing but have slinkier string tension. Longer scales like the 25 inch Gold Tone LS-6 give you better note separation and brighter tone.
Most players find the 22 to 23 inch range to be the comfortable middle ground.
Tonewoods and Body Material
The body wood significantly affects tone. Mahogany, like on the Gretsch G5700, delivers warmth and sustain. Swamp ash, like on the SX Lap 2, offers brightness and clarity. Poplar and basswood are budget choices that sound acceptable but lack the complexity of premium tonewoods.
Okoume, found on the Gstyle model, is an underrated option that sits between mahogany and ash tonally.
Pickup Type
Single coil pickups are the lap steel standard and deliver the bright, cutting tone associated with country music. P90 pickups, like on the SX models, offer a warmer, fatter sound that suits blues and rock. Humbuckers, like on the DIY kit, reduce noise and provide thick, smooth output.
Included Accessories
Some lap steels come with gig bags, stands, and slide bars, while others ship guitar-only. Factor the cost of these accessories into your total budget. A gig bag alone can cost $30 to $50.
Weight and Portability
Lap steels range from under 6 pounds to over 11 pounds. If you plan to transport your instrument frequently or play long sessions, weight matters. The Batking and Amuic models are the lightest options here.
New vs Used Pedal Steel Guitars
For true pedal steel guitars with pedals and knee levers, the used market is strong. Forum members on r/pedalsteel consistently recommend buying used because pedal steels hold their value incredibly well.
For lap steel guitars, the new market offers better value since these instruments are simpler and less prone to mechanical issues.
FAQs
What is the best pedal steel guitar for beginners?
The best pedal steel guitar for beginners is actually a lap steel guitar like the SX LAP 3 or Batking 6 String, which provide the foundational slide technique at an affordable price before investing in a full pedal steel with knee levers.
Is pedal steel guitar difficult to play?
Yes, pedal steel guitar has a steep learning curve compared to regular guitar. You must coordinate both hands, both feet on pedals, and knee levers simultaneously. Most players recommend starting with a lap steel to learn basic slide technique before adding the complexity of pedals and knee levers.
What is the difference between E9th and C6 tuning on pedal steel?
E9th tuning is the standard country tuning used on the front neck of most pedal steels, producing the classic Nashville sound. C6 tuning is used on the back neck and is preferred for western swing, jazz, and more complex chord melodies. Most beginners start with E9th tuning.
How much does a pedal steel guitar cost?
True pedal steel guitars with pedals and knee levers typically cost between 1500 and 5000 dollars new. Lap steel guitars, which use the same slide technique without pedals, range from 65 dollars for a DIY kit to around 850 dollars for premium models.
Do I need a volume pedal for lap steel guitar?
A volume pedal is highly recommended for both lap steel and pedal steel guitar because it allows you to swell notes and control dynamics, which is essential to the signature sound. Good volume pedals start around 100 dollars.
Final Thoughts on the Best Pedal Steel Guitars in 2026
The best pedal steel guitars come in many forms, from full pedal rigs to the lap steel options covered in this guide. For most players, starting with a quality lap steel like the Gretsch G5700 or SX Lap 2 Ash is the smartest path into this rewarding instrument family.
If budget is the primary concern, the SX LAP 3 and the C. B. Gitty DIY kit both deliver surprising value. For players who want premium tonewoods, the Gold Tone LS-6 and the Gretsch G5700 are the standouts.
Whichever you choose, the lap steel is the gateway to the sounds that define country, blues, and Hawaiian music. Pick one up, plug in, and start sliding.
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