Best Lap & Pedal Steel Guitars of 2025

Nicole Kim Avatar
Nicole Kim
Last Updated: Jan 2, 2025

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Lap and pedal steel guitars are unique instruments that are popular in country, blues, and rock music. These guitars have a distinctive sound that is created by sliding a metal bar or "slide" along the strings, producing a smooth, gliding sound. Lap steel guitars are played horizontally on the player's lap, while pedal steel guitars are played standing up and have pedals that allow the player to change the pitch of the strings. Both types of guitars are versatile and can be used in a variety of musical genres. They are also popular among guitarists who enjoy experimenting with different sounds and techniques.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar Cover #TOP 1
Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar Cover #TOP 2
SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar
ftb score rating icon 9.8
2022-23 Asher Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Steel Guitar - Trans Cherry Cover #TOP 3
2022-23 Asher Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Steel Guitar - Trans Cherry
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lap & Pedal Steel Guitars

#TOP 1

Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar

sunburst
Okoume Body Lap Steel Guitar Cover
Lap Steel Guitar, Okoume Body (sunburst)

This fretless 6 string lap steel guitar has a scale length of 23 1/8" and a nut width of 2". It comes with die cast machine tuners, a single coil pickup, 1 volume and 1 tone control, and a 1/4" output jack. The overall length is 33 1/4" and the largest width for lower bount is 10". This lap steel guitar is perfect for those wanting a unique sound and style.

What We Like
Fretless 6 string lap steel guitar
Durable Okoume Body
Comes with die cast machine tuners, single coil pickup, 1 volume and 1 tone control, and a 1/4" output jack
#TOP 2

SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar

SX
LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar w/Free Carr
Black
SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar Cover
SX LAP 3 Black Lap Steel Guitar w/Free Carry Bag

The SX LAP 3 Guitar is a full-size lap steel guitar featuring 36 frets, allowing you to explore a wide range of musical notes. It comes with a convenient carry bag and a glass slide, making it easy to transport and play anywhere. The guitar's one-piece neck-through design enhances stability and sound quality, ensuring a smooth playing experience. With one volume control and one tone control, you can easily adjust your sound to suit any style, giving you the flexibility to express your musical creativity.

What We Like
Full-size design
Includes carry bag
Stable neck-through construction
Easy sound adjustment
#TOP 3

2022-23 Asher Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Steel Guitar - Trans Cherry

Asher Electro Hawaiian
AJ-200CH-2
Trans Cherry
2022-23 Asher Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Steel Guitar - Trans Cherry Cover
2024 Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian ® Junior Lap Steel Guitar - Trans Cherry with Gig Bag!

The 2022-23 Asher Electro Hawaiian Jr Lap Steel Guitar is a 6-string lap steel slide guitar with improved features such as custom alnico 5 pickups, expanded flat wrap around bridge for easier access to the 3rd octave, improved electronics, and a sturdier gig bag. Its lightweight solid mahogany with neck through body construction provides amazing sustain, making it perfect for playing different music styles like blues, country, and rock. This lap steel guitar is renowned for its ease of playability and exceptional tone.

What We Like
Improved features such as custom alnico 5 pickups and expanded bridge make it easier to play and access higher notes
Lightweight solid mahogany with neck through body construction provides amazing sustain
Good for playing different music styles like blues, country, and rock
#TOP 4

Batking Lap Steel Guitar with Gig Bag

Batking
Sunburst
Sunburst
Batking Lap Steel Guitar with Gig Bag Cover
Batking Lap Steel Guitar, Electric Slide Guitars 6 String Slotted Headstock Guiter With Gig Bag Sunburst

The Batking Lap Steel Guitar is a versatile instrument designed for musicians who appreciate quality sound and playability. With 28 frets and .10"-.46" strings, you can explore a wide range of musical expressions. The solid poplar wood body enhances the guitar's tone, while the single-coil pickup delivers clear, vibrant sound. You’ll also benefit from the stainless steel pickguard, which not only adds durability but also a sleek look. Additionally, the die-cast chrome tuners and built-in volume and tone controls allow you to easily adjust your sound to suit your style. This guitar is perfect for anyone looking to elevate their music experience.

What We Like
High-quality sound
Durable construction
Easy tuning adjustments
Includes slide bar and gig bag
#TOP 5

Cort A5 Plus 5 String Bass

Cort
A5PLUSSCAOP
Open Pore Amber
Full
Cort A5 Plus 5 String Bass Cover
Cort Artisan Series A5 Plus 5 String Bass Guitar, Open Pore Amber (A5PLUSSCAOP)

The Cort A5 Plus Bass is designed for musicians seeking exceptional sound and versatility. Its poplar burl top on a swamp ash body delivers a rich tone, perfect for various music styles. The Bartolini MK-1 pickups ensure high-quality sound, giving you clarity and depth in every note. With the Bartolini MK-1 EQ, you can easily enhance your sound while maintaining transparency, allowing for a crisp high-end. Additionally, the Hipshot TransTone Bridge offers a wider tonal range, boosting the punch and sustain of your playing, making it an excellent choice for performers.

What We Like
High-quality sound
Versatile tonal options
Enhanced sustain
Transparent EQ boost
#TOP 6

Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian® Junior Lap Steel Guitar

Asher Electro Hawaiian
AJ-200TS
tobacco burst
Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian® Junior Lap Steel Guitar Cover
Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian ® Junior Lap Steel Guitar - Tobacco Burst - With Gig Bag!

The Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian® Junior Lap Steel Guitar in Tobacco Burst is an excellent cross-over instrument for guitar, Dobro, and Weissenborn players. It features high performing electronics, a flat-radius wrap-around bridge design, and 24 fret lines that provide access to the 3rd octave with amazing sustain. The guitar is ideal for various music styles, including blues, country, and rock. The guitar also comes with a sturdy gig bag that ensures easy transportation.

What We Like
24 fret lines and access to the 3rd octave for amazing sustain
High performing electronics and flat-radius wrap-around bridge design
Excellent for various music styles, including blues, country, and rock
Comes with a sturdy gig bag for easy transportation
#TOP 7

Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel

Asher Electro Hawaiian
AJ-200GT2
Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel Cover
Asher Guitars Electro Hawaiian ® Junior Lap Steel Gold Top w/Gig Bag

The Asher Lap Steel Guitar is a versatile instrument suited for guitar, Dobro, and Weissenborn players. It features high-quality electronics and a unique flat-radius wrap-around bridge, which enhances sound quality and playability. With 24 fret lines, you can easily reach the 3rd octave, allowing for impressive sustain in your music. Plus, it comes with a durable gig bag for easy transport, making it an excellent choice for blues, country, rock, and more. This guitar offers a great blend of performance and convenience.

What We Like
Versatile for various music styles
High-quality electronics
Easy access to higher notes
Includes sturdy gig bag
#TOP 8

Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel Guitar

Asher Electro Hawaiian
AJ-200LPB
Lake Placid Blue
Asher Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel Guitar Cover
2024 Electro Hawaiian Junior Lap Steel Guitar - Lake Placid Blue

The Asher Lap Steel Guitar is an improved 6-string instrument designed for an exceptional playing experience. With a 25-inch scale and two humbucker pickups, you can enjoy rich, vibrant tones perfect for blues, country, and rock music. The flat wrap-around bridge expands access to the 3rd octave, allowing for greater musical expression. Constructed from lightweight solid mahogany with a neck-through body, this guitar offers remarkable sustain, ensuring your notes resonate beautifully. Plus, the upgraded electronics and sturdier gig bag enhance convenience, making this guitar an excellent choice for musicians on the go.

What We Like
Exceptional tone quality
Lightweight and durable
Easy access to 3rd octave
Versatile for multiple music styles
#TOP 9

Rogue EA-3 Lap Steel Guitar

Rogue
EA-3/MRD
Rogue EA-3 Lap Steel Guitar Cover
Rogue EA-3 Lap Steel Guitar with Stand and Gig Bag (Metallic Red)

The Rogue Lap Steel Guitar is designed to deliver classic sounds, making it perfect for country, Hawaiian, and blues music enthusiasts. Its hardwood body and neck not only provide durability but also contribute to rich, resonant tones. The included position markers help you navigate the fretboard easily, enhancing your playing experience. Additionally, the single-coil pickup captures every note with clarity, allowing you to express your musical style fully. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this guitar offers convenience and quality for all your musical needs.

What We Like
Classic sound versatility
Durable hardwood construction
Easy fretboard navigation
Clear note capture
#TOP 10

Cort 4-String Electric Bass

Cort
GBMODERN4OPCG
Full
Cort 4-String Electric Bass Cover
Cort, 4-String Guitar, Right, Open Pore Charcoal Grey, Full (GBMODERN4OPCG)

The Cort Electric Bass offers a lightweight body design, making it easy for you to handle during long playing sessions. It features a Nordstrand Big Single Pickup Set, which enhances your sound quality, delivering a rich, powerful tone. The MarkBass MB Instrument Pre Preamp ensures that your sound remains clear and dynamic, allowing you to express your music fully. Additionally, the Babicz FCH Bridge improves sustain and pitch stability, giving you confidence in your performance. These features combined make this bass a fantastic choice for musicians looking for quality and ease of use.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Rich sound quality
Clear and dynamic sound
Improved sustain and stability
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the difference between a pedal steel guitar and a lap steel guitar?

The main differences between pedal steel guitars and lap steel guitars are their size, weight, and price. Pedal steels are larger and heavier, often equipped with mechanics like foot pedals and knee levers, making them more expensive. Entry-level lap steels can be as low as $300, while entry-level pedal steels can cost around $1,000 used.

2. Is the pedal steel guitar hard to play?

Playing the pedal steel guitar is considered one of the most difficult instruments to learn. Setting up the pedals and levers alone requires significant knowledge. It has multiple standard tunings, and the string arrangement can be non-intuitive. Mastering the pedal steel guitar requires time, practice, and dedication.

3. Can you play lap steel on a normal guitar?

While you can't replicate the exact sound of a lap steel guitar on a normal guitar, you can come close. To achieve a lap steel sound, you'll need a light touch, avoid pressing on the frets, and use open chord tunings like D-G-D-G-B-D. While it may not be the same as playing a dedicated lap steel guitar, it can still provide a similar sound.

4. Why are pedal steels so expensive?

Pedal steel guitars are more expensive due to the additional mechanics they possess. The foot pedals and knee levers bend the strings, creating the distinctive pedal steel sound. The cost of materials, including wood and metal, along with the manufacturing of these specialized guitar parts, contribute to the overall high price of pedal steel guitars.

5. Is lap steel hard to learn?

Learning to play lap steel guitar can be a bit challenging initially. It may take time to get the hang of it and develop the necessary technique. Using a volume pedal is recommended to achieve volume swells and reduce pick attack. With practice and patience, you can become proficient in playing lap steel guitar.

Editor's Notes

During our lap & pedal steel guitar research, we found 24 lap & pedal steel guitar products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 2,696 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lap & pedal steel guitars list. We found that most customers choose lap & pedal steel guitars with an average price of $514.76.

The lap & pedal steel guitars are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lap & pedal steel guitars, including Gstyle, SX, Asher Electro Hawaiian, Batking, Cort. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 126 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Nicole Kim Avatar

Nicole Kim has been a music teacher and a private piano instructor for six years now. She is a very talented musician who plays piano to a high standard and won several awards in international piano competitions. Lately, she has been sharing her music expertise online, giving incredible tips on how to select the right musical instruments.