Squier vs Yamaha Pacifica 112V — the most-asked beginner question, answered

It's the beginner question that comes up most often on Korean guitar communities like Mule and Naver Cafe. Short answer: both are good guitars, and the choice comes down to "what music will you play?" and "how much do looks matter to you?"

First, line up the models

"Squier" isn't one model but three tiers.

• Squier: Sonic ($249), Affinity ($329 for the Telecaster), Classic Vibe ($499)
• Pacifica: 012/112J ($279), 112V ($379)

What people usually end up comparing with this question is the Affinity Stratocaster and the Pacifica 112V.

The biggest difference: pickups

The 112V is HSS (humbucker at the bridge) with a coil tap. Pull up the tone knob and the humbucker acts like a single-coil, so one guitar covers everything from clean to rock drive.

The standard Affinity Strat is SSS (three single-coils). It excels at clear, chiming tones, and under heavy distortion it sounds thinner than a humbucker.

There's also an HSS version of the Affinity. If you plan to play rock or hard rock, go HSS either way.

Neck and playability

Both have a thin C-shape neck and 22 frets, so they feel similar in your hand. The 112V gets consistently good reviews for its satin-finish neck and even fretwork. Squiers are said to vary from one guitar to the next in how well the fret ends are finished.

Either way, run your hand along the edge of the neck in the store and press frets 1–5 before you buy.

Looks and vibe

Here, Squier wins. The Fender headstock shape, color choices and vintage feel are things the Pacifica can't match. The Classic Vibe ($499) in particular is a step up in both looks and build for about $120 more than a 112V.

"A guitar you want to play just by looking at it" is the one you keep playing. Looks are not a minor factor.

Resale value

Both sell steadily on the used market. The 112V is a beginner favorite, so demand is stable, and there are more Squiers for sale. Expect to lose about the same amount when you sell.