Fender Squier Stratocaster - California Blue vs GEARit
Updated August 2026 — Fender Squier Stratocaster - California Blue leads on sound quality and playability.
The Fender Squier Stratocaster offers superior build quality and brand reputation, while the GEARit bundle provides excellent value and modern features. Ultimately, the Squier is the better choice for serious beginners.
Why Fender Squier Stratocaster - California Blue is better
Brand Reputation
Fender is a well-established brand known for quality.
Design
Iconic double-cutaway design enhances playability.
Sound Quality
Three single-coil pickups provide versatile tones.
Why GEARit is better
Price
GEARit is 43% cheaper than Fender.
Bluetooth Amp
Includes a Bluetooth amplifier for modern convenience.
Accessories
Comes with a more extensive starter kit.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Fender Squier Stratocaster - California Blue | GEARit |
|---|---|---|
| Body Type | Double-Cut | Single-Cut |
| Neck Shape | Slim C | Rounded |
| Tuning Machines | Sealed-Gear | Diecast |
| Tremolo | Yes | No |
| Instructional DVD | Yes | No |
Dimension comparison
Overview
The Fender Squier Stratocaster - California Blue Bundle priced at $224.99 offers a comprehensive package for beginners, while the GEARit 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Bundle comes in at a more budget-friendly $128.59, making it about 43% cheaper. Both bundles are designed to cater to novice players, but they differ significantly in features, sound options, and overall value.
Design and Build Quality
The Fender Squier Stratocaster features an iconic double-cutaway design that is both stylish and functional, making it a staple in the electric guitar world. Its slim C-shaped neck and lightweight body enhance comfort during play, which is crucial for beginners. On the other hand, the GEARit guitar sports a single-cut tonewood body, providing a warm, balanced sound with a rich low end. While the Squier is known for its legendary design and reputation for quality, the GEARit offers a solid alternative with its own unique aesthetic and sound characteristics.
Sound and Versatility
The Fender Squier Stratocaster is equipped with three Squier single-coil pickups that deliver bright and versatile tones, ideal for rock and pop genres. This guitar's tremolo bridge further enhances its expressive capabilities. In contrast, the GEARit bundle includes two humbucker pickups that offer a wider range of tones, suitable for rock, blues, and country music. The coil split feature in the GEARit allows players to switch between single-coil and humbucker modes, adding to its versatility. Players seeking a broader tonal palette may find the GEARit more appealing.
Accessories Included
When it comes to accessories, the Fender Squier Stratocaster bundle includes a 10W amplifier, gig bag, strap, instrument cable, picks, and an Austin Bazaar instructional DVD. This comprehensive package is designed for immediate playability right out of the box. In comparison, the GEARit bundle also offers a 10W rechargeable Bluetooth amplifier, along with a gig bag, strap, cable, picks, strings, and an electronic tuner. While both bundles provide essential accessories, the GEARit’s Bluetooth functionality adds modern convenience, especially for tech-savvy users.
Playability and Comfort
The playability of the Fender Squier Stratocaster is enhanced by its slim neck and lightweight body, designed specifically for beginner comfort. With 21 frets, it allows smooth movement across the fretboard, making it easier for new players to learn. The GEARit guitar features rounded frets for comfortable playability, along with a technical fretboard that offers a rich tone. Both guitars prioritize comfort, but the Squier's design is particularly tailored for novice players, making it a standout in terms of ease of play.
Amplification
Both bundles come with a 10W amplifier, but the GEARit’s amplifier has the added feature of Bluetooth connectivity, allowing users to jam along with their favorite tracks from a smartphone or tablet. This modern touch makes the GEARit bundle more appealing for those who prefer a tech-forward approach to practice. The Fender Squier's amplifier, while reliable, lacks this feature, making it less versatile in comparison.
Brand Reputation and Sales Rank
Fender is a brand synonymous with quality and has a long-standing reputation in the music industry. The Squier Stratocaster holds a sales rank of 1703, indicating solid popularity among buyers. GEARit, while a reputable brand, has a sales rank of 20869, suggesting it is less popular than Fender's offering. This difference in sales rank may reflect consumer confidence in the Fender name and its associated quality.
Price Comparison
The Fender Squier Stratocaster is priced at $224.99, while the GEARit bundle is available for $128.59, making the GEARit about 43% cheaper. For budget-conscious beginners, this significant price difference could be a deciding factor. However, it’s essential to consider the features and accessories included with each guitar. The Squier offers a more comprehensive package that may justify its higher price for some players, while the GEARit provides excellent value for those looking for a starter kit.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the choice between the Fender Squier Stratocaster and the GEARit 39 Inch Full Size Electric Guitar Bundle ultimately depends on your priorities as a player. If you value brand reputation, iconic design, and comprehensive beginner-friendly features, the Fender Squier at $224.99 is a solid investment. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on essential features and offers modern conveniences like Bluetooth, the GEARit at $128.59 is a great choice. Both guitars serve their purpose well, but your specific needs and preferences will guide the best decision for your musical journey.