You need a place to put your guitar when you're not playing. Right? Simple solution. You just need a guitar stand. But with so many varieties which do you choose? Let us review the best guitar stands for you so all you have to do is pick one out!
IN THIS REVIEW
The Best Guitar Stands
Our Favorite Guitar Stand
Our Top 12 Picks
Best Guitar Stand Review
A-Frame Stands
1. AmazonBasics Folding A-Frame
2. ChromaCast CC-MINIGS-2PK
3. On-Stage GS7465 Pro Flip-It A-Frame Guitar Stand
Tubular/Tripod Stands
4. Hercules GS415B A/G Guitar Stand w/ Folding Neck
5. Fender Mini Acoustic Guitar Stand
6. On-Stage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand
Hangers
7. String Swing CC01KOAK Hardwood Home & Studio Guitar Hanger
8. D’Addario Guitar Dock
Multi-Guitar
9. Hercules GS432B A/G Tri Guitar Stand
10. Hercules GS525B 5-Piece Guitar Rack
Miscellaneous
11. K&M 14760.000.55 Electric Guitar Performer Stand
12. Gator Frameworks Guitar Seat/Stand
How To Pick A Guitar Stand
Types Of Stands?
Common Questions
Best A-Frame Stand
Best Tubular/Tripod Stand
Overall Top choice
Conclusion
It seems like such a simple task. Pick out a guitar stand and be done with it. But there are so many different types of stand. Which one is right for you?
Today, we'll show you the difference between an A-Frame, tripod, rack, and some others. By the end of this review you will know exactly what you need.
The Best Guitar Stands
If you want to skip the rest of the list and just get straight to our top pick, then this is the section for you.
Our Favorite Guitar Stand
Our top pick from this list is the On-Stage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand.
The On-Stage XCG4 is THE stand most of us are familiar with. It is low cost, easy to use, and works with virtually any guitar you own.
Our Top 12 Picks
A-Frame
1. AmazonBasics Folding A-Frame
2. ChromaCast CC-MINIGS-2PK Universal Folding Guitar Stand with Secure Lock 2 Pack
3. On-Stage GS7465 Pro Flip-It A-Frame Guitar Stand
Tubular/Tripod
4. Hercules GS415B A/G Guitar Stand w/ Folding Neck
5. Fender Mini Acoustic Guitar Stand
6. On-Stage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand
Hangers
7. String Swing CC01KOAK Hardwood Home & Studio Guitar Hanger
Multi-Guitar
9. Hercules GS432B A/G Tri Guitar Stand
10. Hercules GS525B 5-Piece Guitar Rack
Miscellaneous
11. K&M 14760.000.55 Electric Guitar Performer Stand
12. Gator Frameworks Guitar Seat with Padded Cushion, Ergonomic Backrest and Fold Out Guitar Stand
Best Guitar Stand Review
As you can see, we've split this list into five categories; Best A-Frame Stands, Best Tubular/Tripod Stands, Best Hangers, Best Multi-Guitar Stands, and Miscellaneous.
Best A-Frame Stands
1. AmazonBasics Folding A-Frame
Description:
The AmazonBasics Guitar Folding A-Frame Stand starts this list off right. This stand is affordable, sturdy, and portable.
Versatility
It is designed to support both acoustic and electric guitars. It has 3 width settings that can be adjusted depending on the width of your instrument.
No Assembly Required
This stand comes completely assembled, so you don't have to put it together when you get it. It has an all-metal frame and is lightweight. This stand can go anywhere with you as it is super compact when open and even more so when collapsed.
Keeps Your Guitar Safe
Since it is so low to the ground, it does not tip easily. The arms and the back of the stand both have foam padding to keep the finish of your guitar in pristine condition. The feet have non-slip rubber caps on them to keep the stand from sliding around on the floor.
Pros
- almost 5 stars on Amazon with over 10k ratings
- adjusts to fit most instrument widths
- compact and lightweight
Cons
- arms are stationary and may not be suitable for oddly shaped guitar bodies
2. ChromaCast CC-MINIGS-2PK Universal Folding Guitar Stand with Secure Lock 2 Pack
Description:
This 2 pack of ChromaCast CC-MINIGS Guitar Stands is our top choice for A-Frame guitar stands.
Go Anywhere
These stands are super lightweight and can easily fold into a compact size. If you are a traveling musician, these stands take up next to no space.
Lock Down
The back of the stand features a locking system to make sure that it cannot slip and dump your guitar onto the floor.
Universal Yoke
The arms, or yokes, on these stands are wide enough and shaped so they can safely hold even the oddest shaped instruments. They are also padded, along with the back, in foam rubber to avoid any unwanted scratches.
Be warned, the rubber is not safe for nitrocellulose finishes (i.e. Gibson guitars, some Martins, etc).
Pros
- this is basically a twofer
- sturdy
- portable
Cons
- Guitar leans far back so it needs more clearance space
- rubber padding reacts with nitrocellulose finishes
3. On-Stage GS7465 Pro Flip-It A-Frame Guitar Stand
Description:
The final entry into our A-Frame list is the On-Stage GS7465 Pro Flip-It Guitar Stand. While it is technically an A-Frame stand, it is really almost a hybrid of an A-Frame and a Tubular/Tripod Stand.
Extra Neck Support
As we mentioned, this is kind of like a hybrid stand. There is an up-and-down adjustable yoke that can be customized to the length of your guitar's neck. At the top of the yoke is the "Flip-it!" latch.
Extra Security
The "Flip-it!" latching system keeps your guitar from budging when it is locked in place. No need to worry about tail-wagging pets, endlessly-energetic kids, or overly-enthusiastic singers on stage bumping your guitar out of it's cradle.
To open the latch and remove your guitar, you have to use both hands and tilt your guitar to the side. It can be a bit awkward and inconvenient. However, the security on knowing your guitar is locked safely in place can be worth the inconvenience.
Pros
- "Flip-it" design locks guitar in place
- yoke adjusts for neck length
- "uni-construction" design
Cons
- you have to use both hands to take guitar off stand
Best Tubular/Tripod Stands
4. Hercules GS415B A/G Guitar Stand w/ Folding Neck
Description:
Hercules stands are typically considered to be a premium brand. That's because they make high quality products like this GS415B Guitar Stand.
Auto Grab
All you have to do to use this stand is set your guitar neck in the yoke and the weight of the guitar will cause the yoke to close, thus locking your guitar safely in place. To disengage the lock, simply pick your guitar back up.
Specially Formulated Rubber (SFF) Rubber
So many stands use cheaper rubber or foam. For the most part, that isn't a problem because it sill keep your guitar safe. However, with some higher end guitars, like the Les Paul Classic (or any Gibson, really, for that matter), Cheaper materials will eat away at the nitrocellulose finish.
All of Hercules' stands use SFF rubber to make sure their products are suitable for all instruments, regardless of their finish.
Dimensions/Weight:
Pros
- SFF rubber padding is safe for nitrocellulose finishes
- height adjusts for different sized guitars
Cons
- not good for oddly shaped (Flying V) guitar bottoms or narrow headstocks
5. Fender Mini Acoustic Guitar Stand
Description:
The Fender Mini Acoustic Guitar Stand lives up to it's name. This thing is tiny.
Compact
This stand is small enough when folded up that it can fit in your gig bag. It is incredibly convenient and way sturdier than you would think for it's size.
Versatile
The shape of the arms can accommodate the shape of most guitar bodies. It was designed primarily for acoustic guitars, but there are reports that it can hold electric guitars as well. If you're nervous about your electric, Fender also makes a mini stand for electric guitars, as well.
Pros
- super compact
- inexpensive
- lightweight
Cons
- holds guitar at wide angle
6. On-Stage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand
Description:
I don't know about you, but when I think of a guitar stand, THIS is the stand that comes to mind. That being said, this stand is our top pick of the list for all guitar stands.
Best Seller
This is On-Stage's top selling guitar stand. And for good reason. It is sturdy, inexpensive, and works really well.
Zero-Rotation
The neck of this stand can extend to accommodate the length of most guitars. Once you have the yoke in the correct position, you can tighten the friction knob down into an internal V-groove. This groove keeps the yoke from being able to rotate.
Pros
- inexpensive
- reliable
- proven brand
Cons
- design not standardized
Best Hangers
7. String Swing CC01KOAK Hardwood Home & Studio Guitar Hanger
Description:
The String Swing is a fantastic space saver if you have a small living area or a cramped studio.
Cradle Support
The u-shaped cradle is designed to keep your instrument securely in place. No need to worry that an accidental bump will knock it out. The guitar must be lifted 2" up to be removed from it's cradle.
Versatile
The cradle is mounted on a swivel that allows it to shift for different size and shaped headstocks. They do not say to do this but it is also possible to gently squeeze the arms in a bit to hold even more narrow instruments (bajos, mandolins, ukuleles, etc).
Stylish
They come in a very attractive, simple, wood block design. It is perfect if you want something that is minimal and out of the way.
Pros
- small and out of the way
- rubber grips hold your instrument in place with no slipping
- inexpensive and decorative
Cons
- requires putting holes in your walls
8. D’Addario Guitar Dock
Description:
D'Addario take the hanger idea and makes it portable. While this is technically a hanger style, it does not actually support your guitar. It keeps your guitars neck locked in place so it does not fall over when sitting on the floor.
Works (almost) Anywhere
This hanger works like a clamp. Which means as long as there is a sturdy, flat surface available, you have somewhere to put your guitar. It can be a desk, table, literally anywhere.
Up Your Stage Game
Not only can it attach to flat surfaces, you can adjust the knob to be extra tight. Then you can rotate the cradle 90 degrees (can rotate a full 360 degrees) and clamp it to the side of your amp or cabinet. Never worry about tripping over a stand on a dark stage again.
Dimensions/Weight:
Pros
- small enough to fit in a case, gig bag, or cargo pants pocket
- can clip to the side of your amp
- only weighs 3 oz
Cons
- not actually a hanger, guitar must rest on the floor. This keeps it from falling over.
Best Multi-Guitar Stand
9. Hercules GS432B A/G Tri Guitar Stand
Description:
Hercules is making second of three appearances on this list. This multi guitar stand is a premium piece of equipment.
Auto Grip System
All you have to do to engage this stand is set the headstock of the guitar in the cradle and the arms will close automatically.
Any Neck And Headstock Size
You get several narrow instrument adjustment cuffs that snap into the cradle for instruments other than a guitar. These work great with bajos, mandolins, etc.
Nitrocellulose Safe
You can hang your guitars worry free. Every point of contact is covered with SFF foam. It is specially designed to not interact with nitrocellulose finishes
Dimensions/Weight:
Pros
- SFF foam is safe for nitrocellulose finish guitars
- very sturdy
- lightweight
Cons
- reports that Telecaster headstocks are too narrow even with adjustment cuffs
10. Hercules GS525B 5-Piece Guitar Rack
Description:
Hercules just makes great stands. That's why we included them twice on the multi-guitar stand list.
High Volume
This rack will hold up to 5 acoustic, electric, or bass guitars. Different body styles and sizes will all fit comfortable on this rack.
Easy Transport
The entire rack is a single design piece. Meaning, you don't have to take it apart if you are transporting it between gigs. It simply folds up.
Safety Guaranteed
Every point of contact is covered with Hercules' SFF foam. You can stick any guitar, regardless of price or finish, and it will come out looking the same.
It's All In The Head
The TPR yoke is fully adjustable. Simply tilt it up or down as needed per instrument. Each yoke also has 4 slots in which you can store your picks.
Pros
- works with different instrument sizes and shapes
- safe for nitrocellulose finishes
- easy to transport
Cons
- rest angle needs about 10" of wall clearance
Miscellaneous Guitar Stands
11. K&M 14760.000.55 Electric Guitar Performer Stand
Description:
This is not your typical guitar stand. The K&M Performer Stand is designed for stage use.
Positioning Matter
You can adjust both the angle and the length/height at which this stand holds your guitar. That means you can adjust it to wear it is comfortable to play and then forget about it until you need it.
Felt Lined
Each point of contact is felt lined so your guitar will stay unblemished. Since it isn't foam or rubber, this is safe for nitrocellulose finishes too.
Easy Going
This stand easily breaks down into three foldable piece for easy transport between gigs.
Dimensions/Weight:
Pros
- good for guitarists who have difficulties supporting their instrument weight
- felt lining is safe for guitar finish
Cons
- need different stand for acoustic guitar
12. Gator Frameworks Guitar Seat with Padded Cushion, Ergonomic Backrest and Fold Out Guitar Stand
Description:
The Gator Frameworks Guitar Seat is possibly the most unique stand on this list.
Dual Purpose
This stand doubles as a guitar stand and a performance stool. When you are ready to play, just pick up your guitar, fold the cradle up against the legs, and play. You can also remove the padded back if you need more room to move around.
Guitar Safe
The cradle is padded in rubber so your guitar won't get scratched up. The front of the seat, which is where the guitar rests, is covered in microsuede to avoid any scratches.
Dimensions/Weight:
Pros
- Supports weight up to 300 lbs
- collapsible for easy transport
- padding is comfortable to sit on
Cons
- height is not adjustable
How To Pick A Guitar Stand
Why do you need a guitar stand? Because you can't just carry your guitar everywhere you go. And you can't keep laying it around on the couch or bed. Your guitar needs a safe place when you are away.
Stands Vs Hangers
So, do you need a stand or a hanger? In my home, I use both. The hangers are for the guitars that I don't play as often. They are safe and look nice in my home studio.
I use stands for my guitars I play regularly. It is much more convenient to have a guitar stand beside my couch so I don't have to pull my guitar out of it's case any time I want to play.
Space
If space isn't an issue for you, then you can skip this section. But if you're space is limited, hangers may be the way to go. They keep your floor space available while keeping your guitar safe and out of harms way.
Portability
Obviously, if you install wall hangers, they aren't going to be going with you anywhere. A small guitar stand, particularly an A-frame, is compact enough to go just about anywhere.
So, Which Is Best?
Neither is better than the other. They are just different style guitar holders that serve different purposes.
How much space do you have?
You might live in a small apartment and not have any extra floor space. In this instance, a set of hangers would work perfectly.
What are you using it for?
Do you want to have your guitar easily accessible when you're sitting on the couch or in your bedroom? Do you have a home studio where you may need a rack.
What Is Your Budget?
There's a pretty big difference in price between a small A-Frame single guitar stand and a full 5 guitar rack. Figure what your needs are and how much you can afford to spend.
Types Of Stands?
As you may have noticed above, there are actually several different styles of guitar stand.
A-Frame
A-Frame guitar stands get their name because they are shaped like the letter 'A'. Not a lot of creativity there. They are usually pretty small and are quite portable.
Tubular/Tripod
These are probably the stands you think of when you hear "guitar stand" They are sturdy, reliable, and usually pretty cheap. They are made of light weight metal tubing, hence the name, and can hold just about any style of guitar.
Hangers
Hangers, like the two options above, either must be installed onto a wall or clamp to a desk, table, or some other flat surface. Once fixed in place, simply put the headstock of your guitar in the hanger and it will be held in place.
Multi-Guitar & Racks
Basically, any kind of stand that can hold multiple guitars at once. These can come in varieties like the Hercules 3-guitar tubular style guitar stand above or as a rack.
A guitar rack will hold 5 or more guitars. The instrument is set into a groove in the rack and then leaned sideways against a padded bar. You will most often see these in studios or during live performances for large acts.
Walk-Ups
A walk-up stand is a device to which you can attach your guitar. Typically, this is in a live performance setting. When the artist is ready to play, they simply walk up to the stationary instrument and play.
Common Questions
If you only thought there was one kind of stand, you are not alone. You may also have some questions.
Are stands bad for a guitar?
Not unless you are clumsy and knock them over. Stands are perfectly safe to hold your guitar when you aren't playing it.
Nitrocellulose Finish On Guitars
The rubber on some guitar stands can interact with the nitrocellulose finish on some guitars; most often Gibsons. Hercules brand guitar stands are designed to be nitrocellulose safe.
Can A Hanger Damage My Guitar's Neck?
The hanger is designed to fit just under the headstock where it starts to flare out a bit from the neck. If you keep your guitar hanging from a hanger it will be absolutely fine. There is no damage to the guitar neck from being placed on a hanger.
Which Is Better, A Stand Or A Case?
It's not really a fair comparison. They both serve different functions. A case is meant to keep your guitar safe while being stored or transported. A stand is supposed to keep your guitar from just being placed anywhere.
If you are trying to decide which to buy, figure out why you want either of them. Are you gigging a lot and need something to transport your guitar? If so, get a case.
If you don't and you play a lot at home, get a stand. It is much more convenient than having to pull your guitar out of a case any time you want to play.
Can I Use A Stand For Other Instruments (Ukulele, Banjo, Etc.)?
Depending on the size of the stand and instrument, yes. For example, I have a handful of hangers in my home. One of which holds a ukulele. If not for one of the tuning keys, it would not be held up because the headstock is too thin. It is also way too short for a tubular/tripod stand.
However, a ukulele would fit just fine on an A-Frame stand. A banjo would likely fit as well. Try it out and see for yourself.
Best A-Frame Stand
You can't beat a great deal. These stands are sturdy, versatile, and you get two for the price of one!
Best Tubular Stand
The Hercules is where it's at. This stand is sturdy and safe for ALL guitars!
Overall Top choice
Again, our top pick for overall best guitar stand is the On-Stage XCG4 Black Tripod Guitar Stand. It's a classic piece of gear that can't be denied. If you pick one of these up, you will not be disappointed. You can also find them in two or three packs as well.
Conclusion
Now you have all the information you need, as well as a variety of style for a guitar stand. The important thing is that you pick out a stand that will keep your instrument safe when you aren't able to play. Which one will you pick?
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