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The Best Left Handed Bass for the Money

The Squier Affinity Precision is the best entry-level pick; the Fender Player Precision is the mid-range recommendation; the Ibanez SR305EL covers the five-string gap. This guide explains which is right at each budget.

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Value in a left handed bass depends on what you need from the instrument and how far the left-handed selection stretches at your price point. At the entry and mid-range levels, strong options exist from reputable manufacturers. At the premium end, the selection narrows and custom or specialist sourcing becomes relevant.

Best Under £300: Squier Affinity Precision Bass LH

For a first left handed bass, the Squier Affinity Precision Bass is the most consistent recommendation at under £300. The Affinity series has a reputation for reliable build quality at its price, and the Precision Bass body style is practical for beginners — a single split-coil pickup, two controls, no switching. The Fender-licensed headstock and familiar neck profile mean it is easy to upgrade or compare with higher-tier instruments later. Alternatives in this range from Yamaha (TRBX174 LH) or Ibanez (GSR200L) offer similar build quality with slightly different neck dimensions and electronics character.

Best Mid-Range: Fender Player Precision Bass LH

The Fender Player series left-handed Precision Bass represents the clearest step-up in quality from the Squier tier. The Player series uses a Mexican-manufactured body and neck with noticeably better hardware, finish consistency and tonal character than the Affinity range. For a player who has outgrown a starter instrument or who wants to buy quality from the start without entering the American Fender price tier, this is where the money-to-value ratio peaks within the Fender left handed bass line.

Best for Versatility: Fender Player Jazz Bass LH

The Jazz Bass offers two single-coil pickups versus the Precision's single split-coil, which expands tonal range. Both pickups use their own volume controls, allowing blend between neck and bridge positions. The neck is also slightly narrower at the nut than the Precision, which some players prefer. In the Player series, both models are comparably priced; the choice between them is primarily a matter of tonal preference and neck feel rather than value.

Best Five-String: Ibanez SR305EL

The Ibanez SR series in five-string left-handed configuration offers the most accessible entry into five-string for lefties. The SR body style is light, the neck is slim relative to most five-string designs, and the active electronics provide useful boost and cut controls for bass, midrange and treble. Five-string left-handed models are scarce at this price tier, and the SR305EL covers a genuine gap in the market.

Premium Options

Above £1,000, the most practical left handed bass options are the Fender American Performer and American Professional II series, which offer left-handed variants of both Precision and Jazz models. These provide American-manufactured builds, higher-spec pickups and improved hardware. At the top end, Fender Custom Shop lefty orders, boutique builders and premium used instruments from established makers round out the premium tier. For beginners looking to start well, see the beginner guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Squier Affinity good enough for gigging?

Yes, for most pub, venue and support-slot situations. The Affinity series has improved noticeably in build quality over successive generations and is used regularly on stage by players who have outgrown the need to signal status through brand name. A setup by a competent guitar tech and possibly a pickup replacement will take it well into giggable territory. It is not a recording-studio first choice compared to higher tiers, but it is entirely functional for live use.

How does the Fender Player compare to the American series?

The Player series is made in Mexico; the American series is made in the United States. The practical differences are in pickup quality, hardware consistency and finish standard. The American Professional II has noticeably better pickups and hardware. The difference is real but not transformative for most players. The Player series represents the better value for most buyers; the American series is the right choice if build quality and long-term ownership are the primary concern and the budget accommodates it.

Is the Jazz Bass or Precision Bass better for beginners?

Both work well. The Precision Bass has a simpler control layout — one volume, one tone — and a split-coil pickup that produces a thick, punchy tone with minimal hum. The Jazz Bass has two pickups and individual volume controls, which offers more tonal variation. The Jazz Bass also has a narrower nut width, which some beginners find easier on smaller hands. The tonal difference is meaningful but both are fundamental bass instruments that serve all genres.

What about buying a used premium instrument instead?

A used American Fender, Lakland or similar premium instrument can be found for less than a new Player series price in good condition. Second-hand lefty instruments appear less frequently than right-handed equivalents, so the window for a good deal may be narrower. Checking eBay, specialist lefty guitar dealers and guitar forum classifieds regularly increases the likelihood of finding one. Condition assessment — particularly neck straightness and fret wear — is critical before buying used.

About Rebecca Turner

Rebecca grew up in Birmingham, the city that gave the world heavy metal, and fell for loud guitars early listening to the bands her older brother left lying around. She's spent years untangling the gear behind the riffs — the amps, pedals and pickups that make a sound heavy. She writes about rock and metal guitar with the enthusiasm of a genuine fan.

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