The Fender Telecaster is the essence of what an electric guitar is, stripped down to only the essentials—wood, strings, pickups and basic controls. Going by the philosophical principle known as Occam's Razor, which states that the simplest explanation for anything is the one that is most likely to be true, we're reasonably sure that if William of Occam were around today, he'd be playing a Fender Telecaster. Sometimes, simple wins.
Table of Contents
The Sound of a Tele
A Guide to the Fender Telecaster
Vintage-Style Telecasters
Contemporary Telecaster Models
Telecaster Artist Models
Fender Custom Shop Telecasters
Everybody Needs a Tele
The Sound of a Telecaster
Beyond just its simplicity, the Telecaster changed the way electric guitars sounded. Leo Fender's various design and engineering decisions came together to create a guitar with a voice that spoke in a way many guitarists hadn't realized they needed. The combination of a solidbody with a pickup featuring separate magnets for each string and a combined pickup/bridge assembly created a sound with a unique snap and twang that cut through like no "Spanish-style" electric guitar had yet been able to, and at volumes that enabled the guitar to be competitive on a raucous honky-tonk stage. Of special interest here is the bridge and pickup assembly. By using a conductive bottom plate on the bridge pickup and then mounting it in a steel plate, not only is the pickup effectively shielded, but the magnetic field also becomes more focused, which translates to a louder, clearer signal. For the first time, it was far easier for guitarists to step forward and be featured. And the list of featured players is a history of 20th and 21st-century popular music.
A Guide to the Fender Telecaster
When it comes to the range of currently available Fender Telecaster models, you've got a lot of choice—from vintage-inspired models to contemporary takes on Fender's classic design. In the following sections, we're going to look at both those categories, and provide a little info on the most popular current Tele versions. Let's start with a look at some of the vintage models.
Comparing Telecaster Models
|
Model/Series |
Neck Profile |
Pickups |
Tonal Characteristics |
Price* |
|
Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster (various models) |
C shape |
Fender-designed alnico single coils, humbucker |
Iconic Tele twang with warmth and articulation |
$449.99–$524.99 |
|
V shape |
Fender-designed single coils |
Classic bite with enough power for higher-gain styles |
$1,299.99–$1,349.99 |
|
|
Fender American Vintage II Telecaster (various models) |
U shape (1951), C shape (1963/1972) |
Pure Vintage ’51 and ’63 Tele single coils (1951/1963), CuNiFe Wide-Range humbuckers (1972 Thinline) |
Period-accurate vintage sounds, from single-coil spank to humbucking growl |
$2,569.99–$2,729.99 |
|
C shape |
Squier ceramic single coils |
Thick, rich tone from ceramic magnets with output suited for heavier styles |
$230.99 |
|
|
C shape |
Squier ceramic single coils |
Full-bodied tone from ceramic magnets, paired with ample resonance and sustain from string-thru-body bridge |
$304.99 |
|
|
Modern C |
Fender Standard ceramic single coils |
Cutting, articulate distorted sounds and glassy, twangy cleans |
$629.99 |
|
|
Modern C |
Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special single coils |
Crisp, edgy character with a hot, punchy bridge sound and warm, rounded neck tone |
$1,029.99 |
|
|
Fender Player II Telecaster (various models) |
Modern C |
Player Series Alnico V single coils (Player II), Seymour Duncan Hot Rails for Tele bridge/Player Series Alnico V single-coil neck (Moonlight Drive), Seymour Duncan Hot Chicken (Oxblood) |
Chimey cleans, robust rhythms and biting lead sounds with tight lows, organic mids and airy highs |
$839.99 |
|
Fender Player II Modified Telecaster (various models) |
Modern C |
Player II Noiseless Tele single coils (SS), Player II Modified humbucker (SH) |
Legendary Tele twang and cut (minus the hum), with push/pull tone knob for extra versatility |
$1,049.99–$1,079.99 |
|
Modern C |
Player Series Alnico V single coils |
Traditional Telecaster snap with slightly more open, resonant tones |
$944.99 |
|
|
Fender American Performer Telecaster (various models) |
Modern C |
Yosemite single coils (SS), Double Tap humbucker (SH) |
Quintessential Tele sparkle and downright dirty sounds from a sensitive volume knob and Greasebucket tone circuit |
$1,469.99–$1,519.99 |
|
Fender American Performer Timber Series Telecaster (various models) |
Modern C |
Yosemite single coils |
Expressive, dynamic tones with distinct subtleties courtesy of uncommon body woods |
$1,579.99 |
|
Fender American Professional II Telecaster (various models) |
Deep C |
V-Mod II single coils (SS), V-Mod II Double Tap humbuckers (HH) |
Extreme articulation for all the Tele snarl and snap imaginable |
$1,839.99–$1,889.99 |
|
Modern C |
Seymour Duncan JB and ’59 humbuckers |
High-output Duncan humbuckers deliver hot-rodded sounds for hard rock and metal |
$2,099.99 |
|
|
Modern D |
Ultra Noiseless Vintage Tele single coils |
Noise-free performance for timeless, vintage-style Tele tones or gain-drenched single-coil punch |
$1,979.99 |
|
|
Modern D |
Ultra II Noiseless Vintage Tele single coils |
Versatile, contemporary Tele tones, from shimmering cleans to sizzling saturation |
$2,299.99 |
|
|
Modern Deep C |
Fender Acoustasonic Shawbucker pickup and Fishman piezo |
Shape-shifting sounds range from pure acoustic to pure electric |
$629.99 |
Pricing as of August 2025*
Vintage-Style Telecasters
Ahhh, the basic Tele—it set the template for all the solid body guitars to come when it rolled out in 1950. If you want simple, straight-into-the-amp, classic vibe and tone, here's the first place to look.
Squier Classic Vibe Telecasters
Why They're Cool: These Teles deliver vintage Fender style, feel and tone at prices that make them perfect for beginners, modders and tone-chasers on a budget.
Things to Consider:
- Alnico pickups provide warm, articulate tones inspired by the original Fender designs
- Models span ’50s and ’60s spec touches, including classic neck shapes and color options
- Durable poly finishes and modern hardware ensure long-term reliability and ease of upkeep
Shop Now: Squier Classic Vibe '60s Custom Telecaster SH in Aztec Gold
From original Butterscotch Blonde '50s, '60s Thinline, '60s Custom SH to '60s Custom Esquire, these Squier Classic Vibe Telecaster guitars are an enjoyably affordable way to get your feet wet or expand your existing Tele collection. With features and looks true to the originals, plus that great Telecaster tone and feel, the hardest choice is what decade is your favorite.
Fender JV Modified Telecasters
Why They're Cool: These Japan-made gems fuse vintage Fender charm with modern player enhancements for a best-of-both-worlds experience.
Things to Consider:
- Hotter pickups and unique switching options support both classic and high-output tones
- Soft V neck and 9.5” radius fingerboard provide fast, expressive playability
- Creative reinterpretations of vintage models make these ideal for players who love classic style but want a fresh edge
Shop Now: Fender JV Modified '50s Telecaster
As we mentioned earlier in this article, after Fender joined forces with a pair of Japanese distributors in 1982, among the first guitars produced by this new partnership were recreations of vintage Fender models. These quickly gained a following for their stunning fit and finish, as well as their value. Fender's JV Modified series was created as a 40th Anniversary tribute to those guitars, intended to combine vintage inspiration with modern features.
The Fender JV Modified '50s Telecaster sports the classic Tele look, but with some changes for the modern player. A slimmer, soft-V neck profile and flatter 9.5" fingerboard radius start it off. Both feature vintage-voiced pickups, but there's some extra magic happening in the electronics. Instead of the standard 3-way Tele switch, this is a 4-way, adding series pickup wiring (a popular Tele mod) in the front position for a little extra grunt. The push-pull tone pot puts the pickups out of phase in the combined pickup positions (two and four, or one and three, depending on how you number switch positions). The Fender JV Modified Telecaster models are a great choice if you're looking for a tightly built vintage-style Tele to add to your guitarsenal.
Fender American Vintage II Telecasters
Why They're Cool: Meticulously crafted to match their historical counterparts, these reissues bring the spirit and specs of original-era Teles into the modern day.
Things to Consider:
- Vintage-accurate neck profiles, frets and hardware offer an authentic early Fender feel
- Pure Vintage pickups are carefully voiced to reflect specific model years
- Ideal for players seeking a true-to-era experience straight from the factory
Shop Now: Fender American Vintage II 1951 Telecaster
The Fender American Vintage II series is built with period-accurate detail inspired by a specific vintage year, from the neck profile, fingerboard radius and slot-head screws on the 1951 model to the recreation of the original CuNiFe magnets on the 1972 Thinline's Wide-Range Humbucker. For non-Custom Shop guitars, these are probably as close as you can get to wandering into Guitar Center in 1951 (I know, we didn't exist yet, but play along here), 1963 or 1972. For a deeper dive into the creation of the Fender American Vintage II series, check out this interview with Fender Director of Product Management Allen Abbassi.
Fender American Ultra Luxe Vintage Telecasters
Why It’s Cool: These are classic-style Teles, built with premium woods and top-shelf hardware for players who want vintage tone coupled with contemporary, player-oriented features.
Things to Consider:
- Heirloom nitro finishes give each guitar a worn-in feel and naturally resonant response
- Compound-radius fingerboards with rolled edges and stainless-steel frets offer smooth, expressive playability
- Pure Vintage pickups recreate iconic Tele tones with clarity and punch
Shop Now: Fender American Ultra Luxe Vintage '60s Telecaster Custom in Lake Placid Blue
Fender’s American Ultra Luxe Vintage series takes two of the Telecaster’s most iconic models—one from the blackguard ’50s and the other a bound-body ’60s—and rebuilds them from the inside out with premium components and high-performance details. The ash-bodied ’50s model delivers sparkle and bite, while the alder-and-rosewood ’60s Custom leans into warmth and midrange character. Both share the same sculpted neck heel, upgraded hardware—locking tuners, series/parallel switching and Fender’s six-saddle Telecaster bridge—and smooth modern feel, making them great choices for players who want vintage vibe with tour-grade reliability.
Contemporary Telecaster Models
If vintage vibes aren't your thing, and you're looking for something a little more up-to-date in a Squier or Fender Telecaster, then this selection of contemporary Teles is sure to have something that will make you and your fretting fingers happy.
Squier Sonic Series Telecasters
Why They're Cool: These are plug-in-and-play workhorses that deliver Tele tone and style at the most accessible price point in the lineup.
Things to Consider:
- Ceramic pickups provide bold, high-output sound that works well with effects
- Slim, lightweight bodies are great for younger players or long sessions
- A solid starting point for modders and first-time players alike
Shop Now: Squier Sonic Telecaster
The most affordable Squier guitars to date, the Squier Sonic series includes a pair of Telecaster models, the Sonic Telecaster with maple fingerboard and the Sonic Telecaster with Indian laurel fingerboard. Both models boast a modern C-profile neck with a 9.5" radius fingerboard, 6-saddle bridge and lightweight poplar bodies. If you're looking for your first Tele and on a budget, these are a great place to start.
Squier Affinity Telecasters
Why They're Cool: With upgraded hardware and a step up in refinement from the Sonic series, these Affinity Teles offer real value for entry-level players or seasoned modders.
Things to Consider:
- Comfortable necks and improved tuners enhance playability and stability
- Available in multiple colors and pickup configurations to suit different tastes
- Excellent balance of affordability and performance for learning or gigging
Shop Now: Squier Affinity Series Telecaster
The Squier by Fender Affinity Series Telecaster steps in as a kind of "beginner plus" instrument. This model adds upgrades to pickups, tuners and neck profile for a Tele that's a great place to start, and an affordable backup guitar if you're already playing and want to add a Tele to your collection.
Fender Standard Series Telecasters
Why They're Cool: The Standard Series Tele delivers genuine Fender tone, feel and styling at a notable price for a Fender-branded model, offering impressive value for players stepping up from Squier.
Things to Consider:
- Made in Indonesia with classic Fender appointments and bold, modern finishes
- Alnico pickups offer articulate tone that holds up across genres
- Ideal for players who want the Fender name and tone without jumping to Player Series pricing
Shop Now: Fender Standard Series Telecaster with Laurel Fingerboard in Olympic White
The first made-in-Indonesia guitars bearing the Fender name, the revamped Standard Series includes Tele models with Indian laurel and maple fingerboard options. All Tele Standard electrics feature a poplar body and Modern C-shaped maple neck with a 9.5" fingerboard radius, along with Fender Standard ceramic single coils and string-through-body bridge sporting satin chrome saddles. These Telecasters meld easy playability with the look and vibe that have made the Tele a steady icon since 1951.
Fender Player Series Saturday Night Special Telecaster
Why It's Cool: This limited-run Player Tele is built for stage swagger, with vintage vibes and a modern colorway that stands out under the lights.
Things to Consider:
- Based on the trusted Player Series platform with alnico pickups
- Bold aesthetics give it standout visual appeal for stage or studio
- Ideal for gigging players who want a standout Tele with classic tone
Shop Now: Fender Player Series Saturday Night Special Telecaster
The Fender Player Series Saturday Night Special Telecaster, a limited-edition spinoff from the ever-popular Player Series, boasts a distinctive Daytona Blue finish and houses a duo of Seymour Duncan Saturday Night Special pickups—previously available only as humbuckers. Wound hot and punchy, the bridge pickup is perfect for driving rhythms and searing solos, while the warmer, rounder neck pickup is ideal for country twang and bluesy leads.
Fender Player II Telecasters
Why They're Cool: This refreshed Player Series builds on a proven formula with updated colors, modern hardware and thoughtful playability improvements.
Things to Consider:
- Alnico V pickups remain true to the series’ punchy, dynamic tone
- Upgraded tuners and modern neck finishes improve tuning and feel
- Great all-rounder for players seeking reliability and style
Shop Now: Fender Player II Telecaster with Rosewood Fingerboard in Polar White
The Fender Player II Telecaster combines timeless vintage charm with contemporary enhancements for the modern musician. Guitarists of all styles will gravitate toward the effortless playability of the Player II Tele’s contemporary C-shaped maple neck, finished in silky satin urethane for free-gliding position changes. A comfortable 9.5" fingerboard radius supports both rhythm and lead work, while smooth, rolled fret edges encourage quick acceleration when scaling the neck—take your pick of snappy, articulate maple or rounder, more balanced rosewood as the fretboard material.
Fender arms the standard Player II Tele with a pair of twangy Alnico V single coils, and the Player II Telecaster HH employs a duo of snarling Alnico II humbuckers. Each model is available in a variety of timeless finishes, as well as some long-archived colors seeing daylight for the very first time.
Fender Player II Modified Telecasters
Why They're Cool: A twist on the Player II platform, these Modified Teles offer more aggressive styling and features for tone seekers and tinkerers.
Things to Consider:
- Unique pickup combinations and switching options expand the tonal range
- Same neck and body comforts as standard Player II models
- Great for players who want versatile tones with custom-style flexibility
Shop Now: Fender Player II Modified Telecaster SH with Rosewood Fingerboard in 3 Tone Sunburst
The Player II Modified Tele is for the serial tinkerers who are always looking for the latest upgrades and player-friendly features like Noiseless pickups, push-pull switch, locking tuners and rolled fingerboard edges. Pick from SS and HS—as well as maple and rosewood fingerboard options—plus six finish variants for your ideal twangy companion.
Fender Player II Chambered Telecasters
Why They're Cool: Lightweight, resonant and stage-ready, these chambered Teles are built for players who want sonic sparkle and reduced shoulder fatigue.
Things to Consider:
- Chambered bodies offer added resonance and long-session comfort
- Retains classic Telecaster snap with a slightly more open sound
- Perfect for players who prefer lighter guitars without sacrificing Tele tone
Shop Now: Fender Player II Telecaster Chambered Mahogany with Maple Fingerboard in Mocha
Weight relief, richer resonance and singing sustain are a few tangible benefits you can expect from Fender’s Player II Chambered Telecasters. Fender chose ash and mahogany as the tonal foundations of their Player II Chambered Teles, which are each electrified by Alnico V single-coil pickups. On their own, these woods are noted for their organic resonant properties, with ash naturally providing a lively, bright voice and mahogany a mellow, earthy tone. Noticeably, internal cavities can save your neck, back and shoulders from the fatigue of long shows. They can also augment sympathetic vibration, resulting in sound and performance falling somewhere between a standard solidbody and semi-hollow electric guitar.
The ash Fender Player II Chambered Telecaster comes in Butterscotch Blonde, White Blonde and Aged Cherry Burst finishes, while the mahogany model is available in Transparent Cherry and Mocha.
Fender Player II Moonlight Drive Telecaster
Why It's Cool: This limited-edition Tele glows with retro-cool style and high-performance specs—ideal for players who want to make a statement.
Things to Consider:
- Moonlight finish is unique to this run and visually distinctive
- Based on the Player II platform with alnico pickups and modern hardware
- Great for collectors or players looking for something off the beaten path
Shop Now: Fender Player II Moonlight Drive Telecaster
A Guitar Center exclusive, the Player II Moonlight Drive Tele takes a decided left turn from your standard Player II model, flaunting a cool metallic blue finish and Seymour Duncan Hot Rails bridge pickup for a hot-rodded sonic edge. With its roasted maple neck, rosewood fingerboard and alder body, it beckons you to take a test drive.
Fender Player II Limited-Edition Oxblood Telecaster
Why It’s Cool: With a bold finish, roasted maple neck and Duncan Hot Chickens, this Tele dishes out heat and twang in equal measure.
Things to Consider:
- Roasted maple neck adds visual flair, improved stability and lively response
- Seymour Duncan Hot Chickens serve up extra output and punch for players who like it spicy
- Limited-edition Oxblood finish is exclusive to Guitar Center
Shop Now: Fender Player II Limited-Edition Telecaster in Oxblood
The Player II Oxblood Tele isn’t just eye-catching—it’s ear-grabbing, too. Like a Nashville hot chicken sandwich, the Duncan Hot Chicken pickups bring fire and flavor, giving this Tele a sharper bite than its stock counterparts. With the added resonance of a roasted maple neck and a finish that radiates custom-shop cool, it’s a sizzling choice for players who want standout style with no-nonsense performance. This exclusive Telecaster can only be found at Guitar Center.
Fender American Performer Telecasters
Why They're Cool: U.S.-made, workhorse Teles with boutique touches and stage-ready tones—ideal for players looking to level up from imports.
Things to Consider:
- Yosemite pickups deliver dynamic response across gain levels
- Greasebucket tone circuit keeps things articulate when rolled back
- Built in California with attention to feel, tone and gigging versatility
Shop Now: Fender American Performer Telecaster
Proudly built in Corona, California, the Fender American Performer Telecaster models are the most-accessible made-in-USA Teles. The American Performer Telecaster is available as a standard dual single-coil or with Fender's unique Double Tap humbucker at the neck position, in either maple or rosewood fingerboard versions. All American Performer Tele models feature traditional brass barrel saddles for a touch of vintage tone.
Fender American Performer Timber Series Telecasters
Why It's Cool: This limited series brings boutique wood choices and subtle aesthetic shifts to the Performer platform for a unique, earthy vibe.
Things to Consider:
- Distinct tonewoods offer visual and sonic variety
- Maintains core Performer features like Yosemite pickups and satin necks
- Great for players who want a more natural or organic look without sacrificing Fender DNA
Shop Now: Fender American Performer Timber Series Spruce Telecaster in Honey Burst
If you’re seeking a totally unique timbre from your Telecaster, Fender’s limited-edition American Performer Timber series delivers. With sugar pine, sassafras and spruce as respective body materials, these guitars possess a colorful sonic edge over traditional alder- or ash-built instruments. Leo Fender originally dabbled with pine and sassafras in the early days, and spruce is extremely common in acoustics, but these tonewoods have become exceedingly rare in the standard Tele lineup. Now you can enjoy the smoky sound of heat-treated pine, where heirloom-quality vintage tones come prebaked; the singing midrange and robust lows of sassafras; or the balanced, tonally versatile properties of spruce.
The limited-run American Performer Timber Telecaster boasts a modern C-shaped maple neck, 22 jumbo frets on a rosewood (pine version) or maple fingerboard (sassafras, spruce iterations), dynamic Yosemite single coils and a top-end clarifying Greasebucket tone circuit—elite playability and sound from the platform is inherent. Choose from sugar pine in two-tone Sunburst, sassafras in Mocha or spruce in Honey Burst.
Fender American Professional II Telecasters
Why They're Cool: These Teles are a favorite for gigging players, offering nuanced tone, elegant hardware and unmatched playability at the U.S.-made level.
Things to Consider:
- V-Mod II pickups balance clarity and warmth
- Contoured neck heel and rolled edges support all-day comfort
- An excellent middle ground between vintage reissue and performance-focused designs
Shop Now: Fender American Professional II Telecaster Deluxe
Whether you like a traditional Tele setup with maple or rosewood fingerboards or the '70s vibe of a Telecaster Deluxe with dual Wide-Range humbuckers, also available with maple or rosewood, the made-in-USA Fender American Professional series has the guitar for you.
The American Professional II Telecasters include Custom-Shop-worthy features, like carefully rolled fingerboard edges, comfortably sculpted neck heel and V-Mod II pickups. The bridge boasts compensated brass barrel saddles and the ability to string either traditional thru-body or top-loaded. The American Professional Deluxe humbuckers have Fender's unique DoubleTap feature for immense sonic flexibility. Whichever one you choose, once you pick it up, you'll have trouble putting it down.
Fender American Professional II Sandblasted Telecaster HH
Why It's Cool: Hard rock tone meets Tele tradition in this exclusive finish-and-pickup combo that’s made to stand out.
Things to Consider:
- Seymour Duncan '59 SH-1N/JB TB-4 combo offers a more aggressive tone than traditional Tele setups
- Chambered ash body keeps weight down without sacrificing attack
- Modern styling and black hardware may not appeal to vintage purists
Shop Now: Fender American Professional II Sandblasted Telecaster HH with Roasted Maple Neck in Smoke
This exclusive American Pro II Sandblasted Tele takes Fender’s most player-friendly modern platform and gives it a bold new edge. The sandblasted ash body has a rugged, tactile finish that showcases the natural grain, while blacked-out hardware and Seymour Duncan pickups deliver high-output punch and visual attitude. The '59 SH-1N in the neck keeps things articulate, while the JB TB-4 bridge humbucker brings serious bite and sustain—perfect for hard rock players or anyone chasing tonal aggression with Tele feel. It’s chambered for lighter weight and paired with a fast maple fingerboard, balancing muscle and maneuverability.
Fender American Ultra Telecasters
Why They're Cool: Designed for precision, the Ultra Series packs in tonal flexibility, sleek ergonomics and pristine construction for high-performance players.
Things to Consider:
- Ultra Noiseless pickups offer clarity with no hum, even under gain
- Compound-radius fingerboard allows fast lead and smooth chording
- Sculpted neck heel and body contour improve playability without altering classic feel
Shop Now: Fender American Ultra Telecaster
The flagship of Fender's USA production guitars has got to be the Fender American Ultra series. The Fender American Ultra Telecaster features Fender Vintage Ultra Noiseless pickups, an S1 switch for series or parallel pickup voicing, a compound-radius, rolled-edge maple or rosewood fingerboard, a fast, modern thin D neck profile, sculpted neck heel and a six steel-block-saddle bridge. Check this article for Isaiah Sharkey’s take on this guitar (plus the rest of the American Ultra series).
Fender American Ultra II Telecasters
Why They're Cool: The ne plus ultra of modern Tele design—built for players who want exceptional feel, versatile tones and top-tier features.
Things to Consider:
- Stainless steel frets and locking tuners boost durability and tuning stability
- Available with compound-radius necks or Floyd Rose tremolo for expanded options
- Ideal for players seeking flagship Fender quality with a contemporary edge
Shop Now: Fender American Ultra II Telecaster in Avalanche
Fender's American Ultra II Telecaster brings together premium materials, leading-edge engineering and their legacy of precision craftsmanship to deliver the most advanced series of Telecasters ever. The Ultra II Tele features a sculpted-contour body of select alder and quartersawn, Modern D profile maple neck, topped with rolled-edge, compound-radius fingerboards of ebony or maple—depending on your choice of the five available premium finishes—and Luminlay side-dot markers. These build features make the Ultra II Telecaster incredibly comfortable to play, and the tapered neck heel gives extraordinary upper-fret access. The electronics feature the Ultra II Noiseless Vintage Tele pickups that cover than range from crystal-pure cleans, through classic Tele twang to a growl that will bring out the rock in your soul. The S-1 T switch adds a series wiring choice for even beefier tone when you need it. If you love the Telecaster, and crave modern, player-oriented features, the Ultra II Telecaster is a choice you'll never regret.
Fender Acoustasonic Standard Telecaster
Why It's Cool: This hybrid Telecaster bridges the gap between acoustic warmth and electric precision with futuristic design and surprising versatility.
Things to Consider:
- Advanced electronics offer multiple acoustic and electric voices
- Lightweight body makes it easy to handle during long sets
- Great for singer-songwriters, loopers and players needing both acoustic and electric tones onstage
Shop Now: Fender Acoustasonic Standard Telecaster Acoustic-Electric Guitar in Black
The Acoustasonic Standard Telecaster brings the state-of-the-art hybrid appeal of the American Acoustasonic and Acoustasonic Player to a budget-friendly realm—without sacrificing its incredible breadth of acoustic and electric tones. It boasts a tonewood blend of solid Sitka spruce, nyatoh and rosewood—plus dual pickup system comprised of a painstakingly designed Fender Acoustasonic Shawbucker and Fishman under-saddle transducer—to make the magic happen.
Telecaster Artist Models
From its very beginnings, Fender has worked closely with a wide range of players—some well known, some less so—to make design tweaks and to personalize an artist's instrument to better suit their playing style. In some cases, players have made their own mods, then gone to Fender to have "official" versions built with those personal features. This tradition has led to a strong legacy of Artist Signature guitars, including some Telecasters that have gone on the become icons in their own right.
Comparing Telecaster Artist Models
|
Artist Model |
Neck Profile |
Pickups |
Tonal Characteristics |
Price* |
|
’70s C shape |
Custom Mike Campbell Red Dog Telecaster bridge single coil and two Red Dog humbuckers |
Huge variety of low- to high-gain tones, thanks to its SHH pickup configuration, 5-way blade and +34dB “Destruct” boost circuit |
$3,679.99 |
|
|
V shape |
Custom Kingfish humbuckers |
Dual humbuckers offer a broad span of gritty, overdriven blues rock sounds |
$2,249.99 |
|
|
Enhanced V shape |
’64 Tele bridge single coil and Twisted Tele neck single coil |
Recognizable Tele twang with a complementary amount of warmth and richness |
$1,629.99 |
|
|
Late-’60s C shape |
Seymour Duncan Vintage Stack Tele bridge single coil, Hot Stack Strat middle single coil and Vintage Mini humbucker |
Tele snarl, Strat quack and smooth, round humbucking tones |
$3,199.99 |
|
|
Mid-’60s C shape |
Custom Jason Isbell Telecaster single coils designed by Tim Shaw |
Sparkling, fiery Tele tones suited for alt-country, blues and beyond |
$1,729.99 |
|
|
Custom J Mascis C shape |
Custom J Mascis ’58 Tele single coils |
Snappy highs and snarling mids ready for fuzzified alt-rock musings |
$1,519.99 |
|
|
Modern C |
EMG 81 and 60 humbuckers |
Extreme output and definition for brutal high-gain expression |
$1,629.99 |
|
|
Mid-’60s C shape |
Vintage-Style ’50s Telecaster single coils |
Old-school Tele tone perfect for crunchy rock rhythms |
$1,629.99 |
|
|
Oval C shape |
Jimmy Page ’59 Tele single coils |
“Good Times Bad Times”-style sounds, from crunchy and chunky to saturated and sharp |
$2,999.99 |
|
|
Oval C shape |
Custom Jimmy Page Tele single coils |
Similar sonics to Page’s signature Mirror Tele, as this model is a tribute to the evolution of that same guitar |
$1,729.99 |
|
|
1959 C shape |
Custom Raphael Saadiq Tele single coils |
Bright, spanky Tele timbre ideal for soul, funk, R&B and hip-hop |
$2,399.99 |
Pricing as of August 2025*
Mike Campbell Red Dog Telecaster
Why It's Cool: Modeled after the guitar behind countless Heartbreakers hits, this signature Tele combines Southern soul, Custom Shop sparkle and a serious stage vibe.
Things to Consider:
- Seymour Duncan pickups offer vintage warmth and modern clarity
- Worn nitro finish and signature details recreate Campbell’s iconic look
- A great fit for players who want a rock-solid Tele with a story to tell
Shop Now: Fender Mike Campbell Red Dog Telecaster
A very worthy addition to Fender’s Stories Collection, the Mike Campbell Red Dog Telecaster is a faithful recreation of the longtime Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers axeman’s iconic 1972 Tele. Featuring a Bigsby B5F vibrato, two vintage-style bridge and middle humbuckers, a single-coil bridge pickup and a “Destruct” boost circuit that hits like a torpedo, your first note will have you running down this dream of a Tele.
Christone "Kingfish" Ingram Fender Telecaster Deluxe
Why It's Cool: Designed with one of blues’ modern torchbearers, this Tele Deluxe brings humbucker heat and expressive power to a classic form.
Things to Consider:
- Dual custom-voiced humbuckers support everything from smooth leads to gritty riffs
- Comfortable Modern C neck and hardtail bridge ensure sustain and stability
- Ideal for players exploring blues, soul and beyond with fat, dynamic tone
Shop Now: Fender Kingfish Telecaster Deluxe
Mississippi's own Christone "Kingfish" Ingram took the blues world by storm as a teenage wunderkind. His signature Telecaster Deluxe boasts a pair of custom humbuckers, stamped with a "K" crown logo and wound for gritty, overdriven tones, along with an Adjust-o-Matic bridge and stopbar tailpiece for accuracy and sustain. The headstock bears Ingram's signature and the shimmering "Mississippi Night" finish brings to mind a wintry sky somewhere over Highway 61.
Brad Paisley Road Worn Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: Paisley’s signature Tele combines custom-tier tone and comfort with a finish that screams vintage mojo.
Things to Consider:
- Twisted Tele neck + custom ’64 bridge pickups offer expanded tonal range
- Lightweight build is ideal for long sets and touring
- Road Worn finish looks broken-in out of the box, which may not suit all players
Shop Now: Fender Brad Paisley Road Worn Telecaster
Brad Paisley’s new signature Telecaster brings classic twang and tonal flexibility to the stage with a road-worn look that feels instantly familiar. Unlike his previous Esquire model, this guitar sports a traditional two-pickup Tele layout for a broader palette of sounds. The lightweight paulownia/spruce body feels like a feather but punches like a heavyweight, pairing beautifully with the custom-wound ’64 bridge pickup and Custom Shop Twisted Tele neck pickup for a dynamic blend of snap, shimmer and bite. Finished in a silver sparkle relic that looks straight out of a Custom Shop case, it’s built for serious play—and serious stage presence.
Brent Mason Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: A Nashville session legend’s toolbox, this highly modified Tele brings unmatched versatility and studio-grade tone to the stage.
Things to Consider:
- Three-pickup layout includes mini-humbucker, vintage-style single-coil and hot-stack bridge pickup
- Pull-pot bypass and 5-way switching offer fast access to key sounds
- Built for players who need clean country, gritty blues and glassy funk—all in one guitar
Shop Now: Brent Mason Fender Telecaster
Few guitarists have shown the versatility and sheer chops of Nashville session legend Brent Mason. Like its creator, the Brent Mason Signature Telecaster is at home with a unique blend of country, rock, jazz and more. With its three-pickup configuration—stacked Tele bridge, stacked Fat Strat middle and mini-humbucker neck—in the lightweight chambered ash body, it offers a near-infinite tonal palette, suitable for swinging bebop lines, down-home country shred and screaming rock leads. The Glaser Bender system enables effortless pedal steel-style licks with a slight tug on the strap. Whether you're chicken pickin' or grooving fingerstyle jazz, you'll feel right at home with this one.
Jason Isbell Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: With a worn finish, dark edge and refined tone, this signature Tele echoes Isbell’s songwriting—equal parts raw, poetic and precise.
Things to Consider:
- Mid-’60s C neck and vintage-style pickups provide classic feel and voice
- Chocolate sunburst and Road Worn touches give it a lived-in character
- Great for players who appreciate nuance, lyricism and a little grit
Shop Now: Jason Isbell Fender Telecaster
Alt-country's Jason Isbell's signature Tele is as iconic as the star himself. Loaded with custom Tim Shaw-designed humbuckers for a tone that finds a midpoint between rock raw and mellow, this double-bound alder-bodied Telecaster has a distressed sunburst finish suitable to the down-home, road-warrior vibe of Isbell and his band, the 400 Unit. The comfortable, '60s-style C-profile neck is topped with a vintage 7.25"-radius rosewood fingerboard. With a version of Isbell's familiar anchor tattoo engraved into the bridge plate, which carries classic three-barrel brass saddles, the Jason Isbell Signature Telecaster is a wonderful blend of vintage and modern.
J Mascis Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: Built for dynamics, fuzz and feedback, this signature Tele captures the sonic fire and melodic weirdness of J’s alt-rock legacy.
Things to Consider:
- Custom J Mascis pickups balance clarity and high-output drive
- Satin neck and 9.5” radius keep it smooth and fast under pressure
- A bold choice for players who lean into walls of sound and harmonic chaos
Shop Now: J Mascis Fender Telecaster
As mentioned above, the Telecaster's versatility across musical styles is second to none, gracing everything from mellow jazz to the hardest rock. There's probably no player who more exemplifies the latter than J Mascis, whose work, both with Dinosaur Jr. and his solo work, has thrived on starting from a the basic platform of a Tele and turning it into a massive rock riff machine. Mascis' signature Telecaster starts with replicating the 1958 top-loading Telecaster he's used for lead work throughout his career, and adds custom-wound signature pickups that can carry the weight of getting heavy. Aesthetically, the blue sparkle finish and chromed pickguard add a unique visual touch and help make the guitar as unique as the player.
Jim Root Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: Dark, minimal and built to crush, this signature Tele brings Slipknot-grade aggression to the classic silhouette.
Things to Consider:
- Dual EMG active pickups deliver high-output metal tones with surgical precision
- Mahogany body and 12” radius fretboard cater to heavy riffing and fast runs
- Perfect for players chasing high-gain tones with no compromise on clarity
Shop Now: Jim Root Fender Telecaster
Speaking of heavy guitar on a Telecaster, we have to make mention of the Jim Root Artist Series Telecaster. The legendary Slipknot and Stone Sour guitarist is renowned for his tonal impact, and this Tele is loaded with active EMG pickups to ensure that the guitar's output is always punchy, whether you're dialed back for crystal clear, or cranked for full-on raging tone. The use of a mahogany body, rather than the Tele's normal alder or ash, adds warmth that balances the extended high-frequency response of the active pickups. If heavy is what you're after, this may be the guitar you've been seeking.
Chrissie Hynde Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: With its faded finish and tough-yet-articulate tone, this Tele nods to a rock icon’s rhythm-driven style and decades of stage use.
Things to Consider:
- Mid-’60s C neck and vintage 7.25” radius give it classic feel
- Custom pickups voice the guitar for punchy, clean chord work
- Great for rhythm players who want expressive control and vintage cool
Shop Now: Chrissie Hynde Fender Telecaster
When The Pretenders broke out as part of the 1970s "New Wave," singer/guitarist/songwriter Chrissie Hynde was a revelation. Chrissie's signature Tele is based on her treasured 1965 Telecaster, with a chromed pickguard for a touch of flash and custom-wound Chrissie Hynde single-coil pickups for her signature, slashing rhythm sound. The lightly aged hardware gives it the well-traveled vibe that tracks with Hynde's reputation as a tireless touring force.
Jimmy Page Fender Mirror Telecaster
Why It's Cool: A faithful replica of Page’s late-Yardbirds axe, complete with mirrored discs and vintage-spec mojo.
Things to Consider:
- Period-correct neck, pickups and wiring for authentic late-’60s feel
- Removable mirrors let players tailor the look
- A must-have for Page fans and vintage collectors
Shop Now: Jimmy Page Fender Mirror Telecaster
Created with input from the player himself, the Jimmy Page Mirror Telecaster replicates the original white blonde 1959 top-loader Tele that Page played with The Yardbirds and on early Led Zeppelin recordings. It features a two-piece ash body and custom-wound Jimmy Page 1959 Telecaster pickups, along with the period-correct, slim D-profile neck and 21-fret rosewood slab fingerboard. The guitar, graced with Page's signature on the headstock and neckplate, comes with a historically accurate tweed case, along with a unique set of "case candy" items—a set of mirrors you can use to decorate the guitar body as you wish, a coil-style instrument cable, "stained-glass" strap and a certificate of authenticity.
Jimmy Page Fender "Dragon" Telecaster
Why It's Cool: The psychedelic counterpart to the Mirror Tele, this painted icon brings fire, color and early Zeppelin tone in a stunning reissue.
Things to Consider:
- Dragon artwork is embedded under clear lacquer for durability
- Classic specs stay true to the original sonic signature
- Great for players who want a playable piece of rock history
Shop Now: Jimmy Page Fender "Dragon" Telecaster
The final evolution of this storied instrument was the removal of the mirrors, stripping of the finish and the creation of one of the most easily recognizable graphics ever put on a guitar—a hand-painted dragon. As you'd expect, since they are both descended from the same instrument Jeff Beck gave to Page, the specs are the same, other than the finish. In this case (vintage-style black hardshell, if you were wondering), the included case candy includes a "Whole Lotta Tele" strap.
Finally, for the truly serious Jimmy Page fan (or lover of fine history guitars), the Custom Shop version of the Jimmy Page Telecaster is an immaculate recreation of the 1959 top-loading Tele that started this all off. Crafted with the care, precision and dedication of Fender's Custom Shop builders, this is the ultimate Page Tele, taken back to its roots. The build is of carefully selected ash, with handwound Page single-coil pickups and all period-correct hardware. It also includes a vintage-style tweed case, the mirror application kit, the coil cord, "stained-glass" strap and the treasured Fender Custom Shop Certificate of Authenticity.
Raphael Saadiq Fender Telecaster
Why It's Cool: Stripped to the essentials, Saadiq’s Tele is a funk-fueled statement piece designed for groove, feel and total focus.
Things to Consider:
- Single bridge pickup and minimalist controls highlight touch and tone
- Slim, lightweight build is ideal for stage movement and long sessions
- A great choice for players who want less gear and more expression
Shop Now: Raphael Saadiq Limited-Edition Fender Telecaster
Designed in concert with the Grammy Award-winning producer, the Fender Raphael Saadiq Signature Telecaster combines vintage and modern features, along with a unique finish on the bound ash body and a custom pickguard that match the visual style and flair of the artist. Featuring a slim '59 C neck profile and a modern 9.5" radius rosewood fingerboard that boasts vintage-tall frets on the custom-bound neck, along with custom Raphael Saadiq single-coil pickups, the tone can go from classic Tele vintage to modern attitude, matching the musical range of the artist.
Fender Custom Shop Telecasters
Why They're Cool: From exacting vintage reissues to boundary-pushing one-offs, Custom Shop Teles are where Fender’s most skilled builders bring player dreams to life.
Things to Consider:
- Choose from Masterbuilt, Team Built or Artist designs tailored to individual playing styles
- Wide selection of neck profiles, pickups, wiring and finishes offers deep personalization
- Ideal for serious players, collectors and anyone who wants a uniquely crafted Tele with a personal touch
Maybe you're looking for one of the handmade, limited-edition versions. Maybe there's a specific artist signature Tele that you want custom built. Or maybe, one of the Fender Custom Shop's Master Builders has created a one-off work of art that you've fallen deeply in love with (that's okay, we understand). Whatever it is, a Fender Custom Shop Telecaster is a guitar you will treasure and play for the rest of your life.
Why is that? Since their founding in 1987, the Fender Custom Shop has maintained a goal of advancing the art of luthiery, while keeping a deep respect for the traditions of the past. Just to be chosen as one of the Custom Shop builders would be accolade enough for most. It means you've achieved a level of quality, precision and accuracy in your work that is beyond merely worthy. To advance to the level of Master Builder adds on the inspiration and vision of a true artist. Any of the Telecaster models from the Custom Shop will play and sound like a dream, becoming an extension of your body and even, dare we suggest, of your musical soul.
So if you've got a dream Tele that you'd like to make reality, talk with us about Custom Shop instruments, and we can help make it happen.
Everybody Needs a Tele
Considering that this iconic guitar has several books at least ten times this long tracing its history and evolution, we've barely had room to touch on the deep impact that the Telecaster has had, and continues to have, on the development of the electric guitar. It's not ever enough space to cover all the different Tele models that are available today.
And speaking of Tele models, the best way to find out what's right for you is to stop by your local Guitar Center, speak with one of our knowledgeable Associates and play a few to find the exactly correct match. Or, you can speak with the equally knowledgeable Associates at our Call Center to track down your Telecaster. Of course, you can browse to your heart's content on our website, and see everything that's available, all in the comfort of your home (or office—it's okay, we won't tell your boss). Whatever way you choose to shop, a Telecaster is a guitar that belongs in everybody's collection. It's that simple.
