Are you intrigued by electric violins but you’re not sure why or how to get one?

The benefits of playing an electric violin are truly numerous.

First of all, you’ll be able to practice at home without disturbing anyone – in complete silence!

Silent electric violins are really amazing for beginners and all violin players who wish to practice with headphones.

And if you want the opposite, you can simply plug your electric violin into an amplifier and get that powerful, loud sound that no acoustic violin could ever achieve.

On top of that, the best electric violins look really cool. They come in all shapes and colors, and you can choose the one that fits your character.

And last but not the least, these instruments will allow you to explore all the modern music styles. Rock, jazz, pop, Latin – you name it.

So, if you’re planning to buy a new electric violin or you’re still not sure if this is an instrument for you, you’ve come to the right place.

Now, let us guide you through our pick of the 15 best electric violins!

15 Best Electric Violins

1. Yamaha YEV105BL Electric Violin

This beautiful electric violin is suitable both for students and experienced violin players.

The Yamaha YEV105BL is very light and easy to play. You only need to plug it into an amplifier to play it. Batteries, preamps, or headphones aren’t necessary.

This model is made from six different kinds of wood, which adds to its organic sound and visual appeal.

The 5-string Yamaha YEV105BL produces a clean, warm tone.

And it’s very easy to maintain – like any other violin, you’ll just have to change the strings from time to time.

So, just like you would expect from the Yamaha instrument, this beauty will ensure you a powerful resonance and comfortable playing experience.

Pros  

• Lightweight
• Clean sound
• Elegant appearance

Cons

• No accessories included
• Pegs could be improved

2. Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL Electric/Silent Violin

Cecilio is one of the best manufacturers of traditional and electric violins.

Its Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL is naturally quieter than its acoustic counterparts. It’s made to be plugged in, amplified, or played silently with headphones.

Silent violins are a great choice for people who want to practice at home without disturbing anyone. This allows you to practice even during odd hours.

And the Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL is a safe choice for beginners as well as intermediate violin players.

It’s powered by a 9V Alkaline battery which is included in the package.

This model comes with lots of extras including a lightweight hard case, Brazilwood bow, quality rosin cake, an auxiliary cord, and headphones.

The Cecilio 4/4 CEVN-2BL is quite affordable too! And if you come across a problem, you’ll be able to use the 1-year warranty.

3. Barcus Berry 4-String Violin BAR-AEG

Another reliable violin manufacturer is Barcus Berry. Its founders developed the first-ever piezo-crystal pickup for instruments and made a huge impact on modern electrical instruments. 

However, its 4-String Violin BAR-AEG is incredibly reminiscent of a traditional violin.

It’s made from high-quality spruce and maple woods and produces a very clear sound. So, it’s both stylish and durable.

Barcus Berry’s violins are hand-crafted in their Romanian shop and inspected in the violin specialty shop in NYC.

And this model comes with a bow, a case, and the USA-made rosin.

Moreover, the Barcus Berry 4-String Violin BAR-AEG is a great practice violin for students but it’s suitable for performances as well.

4. Stagg EVN 4/4 BK Silent Violin

The Stagg EVN is one of the best electric violins for silent practice. It’s also one of the most unique violins on the market.

It has lacquered maple body that lasts a long time.

It also has 4 fine tuners, and 2-Band EQ & Volume (to get a pure sound.)

On top of that, The Stagg EVN 4/4 BK Silent Violin is quite affordable – you can get it for less than $300.

So, if you’re searching for a budget-friendly silent violin with a distinctive appearance, this is it!

It’s suitable for all levels of experience.

Pros   

• Comes with 2-band EQ and volume controls
• Affordable
• Interesting appearance (and available in multiple colors)

Cons

• Sound is not as good as in some other options

5. Bunnel Edge Electric Violin

If you’re searching for a good electric violin that comes with a complete outfit, you should definitely check out the Bunnel Edge Electric Violin.

This powerful-looking violin comes with a case, electric amp, Brazilwood bow with real horsehair, headphones, and Kennedy Violins rosin. It also features a 100% piezo-ceramic pickup.

The Bunnel Edge Electric Violin is also playable (for practice) without an amp.

It has a quality setup – the final assembly is made in the USA. And due to its quality materials and design, it produces a very nice, rich tone.

We also like its easy adjusting. The controls are easy to access which is convenient if you’re performing on stage.

Another selling point for this electric violin is its lifetime warranty and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Pros  

• Complete outfit
• You can practice without an amp
• Good materials (ceramic pickup)
• Lifetime guarantee

Cons

• The amp only runs on a 9-volt battery

6. Wood Violins Stingray SV Series

The Wood Violins Stingray violins have a striking, rock look. You can almost confuse them for electric guitars.

Besides having a distinctive appearance, the Wood Violins Stingray violin is very compact and lightweight and, therefore, provides an enhanced ergonomic feel.

You won’t need batteries for this 4-string electric violin – you can simply plug it in and start playing.

And you can choose between a 4-string and 5-string version.

Moreover, the Wood Violins Stingray violin features a Wood Tru-Tone pickup which ensures a warm, quality sound.

After all, Wood Violins specialize in electric violins, and their instruments are played by successful musicians.

So if you’re looking for a cool but good electric violin, Wood Violins Stingray SV Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Unusual appearance
• Lightweight
• Good sound

Cons

• Doesn’t come with lots of accessories

7. Cremona SV180E Premier Student Electric Violin

The elegant Cremona SV180E Premier Electric Violin is a perfect blend of traditional acoustic violin characteristics and modern design.

As the name suggests, this electric violin is ideal for students. It’s great for silent practice at home, but you can also plug it into an amplifier.

It features volume and tone controls, a headphone jack, and mini line-out and line-in jacks.

It also has Ebony Hill-style fittings and an ebony fingerboard. And its lightweight composite tailpiece allows easy tuning.

All in all, the Cremona SV180E Electric Violin is an elegantly shaped, beginner-friendly electric violin with the ability to produce a beautiful, warm sound.

Pros  

• Perfect for beginners
• Elegant
• Great build quality

Cons

• Doesn’t come with many accessories

8. Cecilio CEVN-1NA

If you’re a beginner or an intermediate violinist, you can’t go wrong with Cecilio.

The Cecilio CEVN-1 is very beginner-friendly and affordable.

It has a solid mahogany body and ebony fingerboards and pegs. It’s rather lightweight and easy to play.

It’s powered by a 9V Alkaline battery, and it can be played as a silent violin.

Besides being very affordable, the Cecilio CEVN-1NA comes with everything you need: a hard case, a Brazilwood bow, quality rosin cake, aux cable, and headphones.

And you’ll get a 1-year warranty in case of manufacturer’s defects.

Pros 

• Affordable
• Complete outfit
• Good sound (considering the price)

Cons

• Doesn’t come tuned

9. Yamaha Model SV-130SBL “Concert Select“ Silent Violin

Many consider the Yamaha Model SV-130SBL “Concert Select” Silent Violin the best electric violin on the market. And although it’s hard to pick only one ‘best’ model, Yamaha came pretty close with this one.

Apart from having a modern look, it comes with all the necessary accessories including a bow, case, rosin, earphones, cable, and 2 AA batteries.

It has a maple neck, spruce body, and ebony fingerboards and pegs.

And it feels incredibly natural to play, so you can easily switch from/to an acoustic violin.

But one of the best features of the Yamaha Model SV-130SBL is an adjustable built-in reverb ensuring a better sound. There’s also a useful volume control knob on the back of the violin.

All things considered, this is a remarkable electric violin suitable for all levels of experience.

Pros  

• Great sound
• Good build quality
• Adjustable reverb feature
• Complete outfit

Cons

• Batteries sometimes rattle a little when you play certain notes (as some buyers noticed)

10. Crescent EV-WT Violin

If you’re looking for an inexpensive beginner electric violin, you should check out the Crescent EV-WT Violin.

It comes as a complete outfit – you’ll get a gig bag, headphones, rosin, and batteries. You’ll also get a very useful digital E-tuner that will ensure you a more stable tone.

And since it’s an entry-level electric violin, it’s not pricey at all. In fact, it’s one of the best electric violins you can get for under $100.

This ebony electric violin looks nice as well, and you can get it in several different colors.

All in all, it’s a reliable, budget-friendly instrument for violin newcomers.

Pros  

• Budget-friendly
• A nice tone
• Complete outfit

Cons

• Strings could be better

11. Kinglos 4/4 White Blue Flower Electric Violin

This is undeniably the most charming electric violin on our list.

It’s really eye-catching and fashionable, and you even get have the option to pick some color elements.

But the Kinglos 4/4 Electric Violin doesn’t offer only good looks – it also produces a very nice tone.

It has a hand-carved solid spruce body, ebony fingerboard and pegs, and top-notch Piezo pickups.

This model comes with all the accessories, you won’t have to spend extra money on the case, headphones, or shoulder rest.

In fact, you won’t spend much at all.

However, considering its price, this electric violin is suitable for beginner and intermediate students, but not for concert halls and stage performances.

But if you’re looking for a stylish but durable instrument for your violin practice, you won’t make a mistake purchasing this model.

Pros  

• Stylish appearance
• Complete outfit
• Affordable

Cons

• Sound could be improved

12. Violin Smart Full Size Electric Violin

Another beginner-friendly electric violin popular on the market is the Violin Smart Full Size Electric Violin.

It has a simple yet effective design and it’s accompanied by a wooden bow, padded gig bag, earphones, rosin, amplifier cable, and 9V battery.

This violin is meant to be played silent (although it’s never completely silent), but it’s also suitable for violinists who prefer a full volume.

It features plastic pegs so it requires a longer tuning. That’s one of its few disadvantages.

Pros  

• Complete outfit
• Nice design

Cons

• Plastic pegs

13. Bunnel NEXT electric violin

If you’re seeking an electric violin that looks more similar to the traditional violin, the Bunnel NEXT Electric Violin is for you.

This elegant beauty is handcrafted with a solid maple body. It has ebony fittings and a piezo-ceramic pickup.

The Bunnel NEXT Electric Violin is loved among violinists of all levels of experience because it has fantastic amplification and a clear tone.

You can simply set up the volume on the violin or the included mini amp.

The package also includes a bow, headphones, cables, a case, and a polishing cloth. So, everything you’ll need.

Even though you’ll get a durable, high-quality instrument, the manufacturer will give you a lifetime warranty and a 45-day money-back guarantee.

Pros  

• Great amplification
• Durable
• Complete outfit
• Suitable for violinists of all levels

Cons

• Mini amp could be a bit better

14. Cecilio 4/4 Electric Violin CVNAE-330+SR

If you think that the Bunnel NEXT Electric Violin looks like an acoustic violin, you’ll be more impressed by the Cecilio 4/4 Electric Violin CVNAE-330+SR.

This electric acoustic violin will ensure you an outstanding playing experience.

It’s hand-crafted from solid maple and spruce, so the volume and tone control is really amazing.

It also comes with a Brazilwood bow and ebony pegs and fingerboard. And the case looks as professional as the instrument.

Moreover, the Cecilio 4/4 Electric Violin CVNAE-330+SR is suitable both for seasoned violinists and people who are working on improving their skills.

And although we’re sure this antique-style violin won’t disappoint you, Cecilio will give you a 1-year warranty.

Pros   

• It has both acoustic and electric functions
• Charming, antique varnish
• It has fine tuners on all the strings
• Durable
• Suitable for all levels

Cons

• Strings are not easily tightened

15. Tower Strings Acoustic Electric Violin

This is another acoustic-electric violin with a traditional look and feel of an acoustic violin.

The Tower Strings Acoustic-Electric Violin comes with a built-in pickup, volume, and tone control. You can play it acoustically or easily plug it into an amplifier – you won’t need any extra parts.

It features carved maple and spruce woods, ebony fingerboard and fittings, and durable brown finish.

You’ll also get a case, a digital tuner, and everything else you need for playing and maintenance. The violin comes ready to play, you’ll only have to do some minor tuning.

So if you’re interested in having an instrument that could be played both acoustically and with an amplifier, the Tower Strings Acoustic-Electric Violin will meet all your needs.

And many agree that acoustic electric violins offer the best of both worlds.

Pros  

• Beautiful traditional appearance
• Good sound
• Complete outfit
• Acoustic and electric features

Cons

• It’s a bit heavy (compared to some other models)

How To Choose The Best Electric Violin For You

As you’ve noticed, electric violins are available in a variety of designs, shapes, and colors.

And due to a truly wide range of electric violins on the market today, it’s normal if you have no idea how to choose the best electric violin for you.

But if you educate yourself on the elements of electric violin you should pay attention to, the buying process will undoubtedly be smooth and fun!

After all, you’re getting a brand new instrument you can practice on, which is exciting. And electric violins are especially fun – there’s plenty of effects and music styles to explore.

And to help you make the best choice, we’ve created this comprehensive electric violin buying guide.

Types of Electric Violins

First of all, you should decide what type of electric violin you want to buy. And that depends on your plans and experience.

If you’re just starting out, standard entry-level electric violins are a good option. Cheaper models are not made of the best quality materials, but they will do you just fine if you’re on a budget.

If you’re planning to take online violin lessons and practice at home, silent violins are a smart choice (most electric violins on our list have this ability though.) They come with jack headphones so you don’t have to disturb your neighbors or other family members.

Other instruments you might want to consider are acoustic electric violins. This specific type of violin looks similar to a classical violin and it can produce sound acoustically but it also has built-in electronics for amplification.

Build Quality

Regardless of what type of violin you choose, you need to make sure your violin has a good build quality.

Strings should be easy to press and the violin shouldn’t feel too heavy or uncomfortable.

Electric violins are generally heavier than hollow acoustic violins, so you need to make sure you don’t buy a heavy instrument that will put your shoulders and arms in danger.

Entry-level violins are less expensive and, therefore, made of cheaper materials. But poor-quality pegs, bridges, and necks will lead to a bad playing experience that will discourage any beginner.

Many manufacturers use traditional woods like maple and spruce. The type of wood has an effect on the sound and the appearance of the violin. Therefore, you should avoid things like plastic pegs and poor-quality accessories you’ll need to replace soon.

So, the ultimate goal is, of course, to blend quality and affordability.

Thankfully, with so many options on the market, you’ll be able to find affordable models with good playability.

And if you’re a seasoned musician, you already know you should opt for a powerful sound of an electric violin and a quality sound sensor (at least one sensor per string.)

Electric violins that are used for performing or recording are designed to give a strong full-frequency output signal. They usually have standard length and adjustable fitting.

In the end, a good build quality ensures the durability of the instrument. So, if you invest in your violin and spend a little extra money, you won’t have to worry about getting a new one for quite some time.

Tone

The tone is the most important and the most complex element of every instrument. And it’s no different with electric violins.

However, the tone on electric violins can be altered through equalization (EQ). And there are often different effects that can also alter it.

But despite the fact that you can change the tone on the electric violin, you’ll want the initial baseline tone to be to your liking.

As a beginner, it might be hard to establish if you like a specific tone, so it’s always good to ask someone knowledgeable for advice.  

And if you have some experience in playing the violin, you’ll know if the violin has a brighter or a rich, warm tone.

Checking the tone of the instrument might be tricky if you’re shopping online, but you can find really accurate descriptions (either in the customer reviews section or an official description.) You can also check if someone did a review of the model on Youtube.

On the other hand, if you’re purchasing instruments online, you can come across some really good deals.

Number of Strings

While going through our list of the best electric violins, you’ve probably noticed that some of them have four strings and some models are 5-string violins.

So which one should you opt for, a 4-string or a 5-string electric violin?

Well, as acoustic violins usually have four strings, that’s probably the best choice for beginners. It’s simply what most musicians and teachers are used to.

And once you get the grasp of the basics, you can easily switch to a 5-string electric violin. Of course, you’ll need some time to adjust, but it’s nice to explore new playing styles.

The 5-string electric violin has an additional C-string (just like in a viola range) allowing you to extend your lower range.

This deeper timbre you get with the 5th string is especially useful for experienced violinists who like to compose and improvise.

Price

As we’ve already mentioned, paying a bit more for an instrument means it will last you longer.

On the other hand, if you’re a first-time beginner and you’re still not sure where your violin practice will take you, you should go for less expensive options.

Electric violins range from around $100 to $5,000. If you don’t count the $1.4million Swarovski electric violin, of course.

Either way, it’s a wide price range, and it all depends on your budget and plans for the future. Even if you’re just a beginner but taking your lessons seriously, spending more on a good quality instrument is a smart investment.

But if you’re seeking budget-friendly options, you’ll also be able to find a model that will meet your needs.

Final Thoughts

We hope our list and the electric violin buying guide will help you make the right choice.

There are many quality and affordable instruments on the market, whether you’re a student or a seasoned violinist.

And if this is your first violin, make sure to do a little research first. We know that many electric violins are quite eye-catching, but don’t make a decision based only on the violin’s appearance.

If you buy a reliable, good-quality instrument, you won’t have to worry about getting new parts (or the whole instrument) anytime soon.

If you know what you want and how much you’re willing to spend, you’re already closer to making a decision.

And if you make an informed decision, we’re sure it will be a good one!