At first glance, electric and bass guitars may look similar, but the differences between them are significant — both in terms of sound and the role they play in a band. If you're just starting your musical journey and wondering which of these instruments to choose, it's worth understanding how they differ.

The main difference lies in the sound. An electric guitar has a higher pitch and is usually responsible for playing melodies, riffs, and solos. It's the instrument you’ll hear delivering distorted tones in rock or metal tracks. The bass, on the other hand, plays much lower notes - often less audible but strongly felt. Its job is to build the foundation for the rest of the instruments. The bass connects the rhythm of the drums with the harmony of melodic instruments, which makes it a crucial - though often underestimated - part of music.

Another difference is the construction of the instrument. A bass guitar typically has four strings, which are thicker than those on an electric guitar. It also has a longer neck and wider fret spacing. An electric guitar usually has six strings and is smaller and lighter, which can make a difference for players with smaller hands.

The playing style also differs. On an electric guitar, you play chords, single notes, and use various techniques to achieve unique sound effects. Bass guitar playing focuses more on rhythm - usually playing single notes with fingers, though the slap technique is also popular, allowing for a more dynamic, percussive sound.

The choice between an electric and a bass guitar mostly depends on what kind of music you want to play and what role you want to have in a band. If you're dreaming of rocking riffs, melodic lines, and solos - the electric guitar will be a perfect fit. But if you're more into groove, rhythm, and being the one who holds the band together - go for the bass.

If you're still unsure which instrument is right for you, visit our store Music99. We'll help you choose the right gear, test different models, and answer all your questions. Every musician started with the question “which one should I pick?” - the most important thing is to just start playing.