Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 7 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
5.0 (20)
$3,499.00
Guitar Center
4.5 (16)
$3,499.00
Reverb
5.0 (27)
$2,900.93 New
$2,253.00 Used
Musician's Friend
5.0 (3)
$3,499.00
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$3,499.00
Thomann
4.8 (9)
$2,899.00 $2,880.00 $19.00 · All time low
Gear4Music
£2,555.00

Average Price: $3,147

High-end/Boutique

$500

$1201+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Gibson ES-335 Dot". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Gibson ES-335 Dot, a semi-hollow body electric guitar that redefines versatility, playability, and vintage appeal. Carrying on a rich legacy since 1958, this guitar offers an unmatched blend of performance, style, and tone.

The heart of the ES-335 is a meticulously handcrafted mahogany neck, adorned with a rosewood fingerboard and 22 Plek'd frets for effortless solos. It houses a pair of Calibrated T-Type humbucking pickups, offering the signature Gibson tone that has been a key influence on generations of musicians.

The ES-335's design features a three-ply maple/poplar/maple body, which is not only lightweight but also resonant. Its F-holes let the tone breathe, while a solid center block effectively reduces feedback. This unique combination has been responsible for producing some of the most revered rock, blues, and jazz tones of all time.

The ES-335 is further enhanced by a lightweight ABR-1 bridge, stopbar tailpiece, and Vintage Deluxe tuners, all working in harmony to provide rock-solid intonation.

Key Features:

  • Semi-hollow body with a Maple/Poplar/Maple construction
  • Handcrafted mahogany neck with a rosewood fingerboard
  • 22 Plek'd frets for effortless solos
  • Calibrated T-Type humbucking pickups for a versatile Gibson tone
  • ABR-1 bridge and stopbar tailpiece for rock-solid intonation
  • Vintage Deluxe tuners for tuning stability
  • Premium appointments such as hand-rolled fingerboard binding and top hat knobs with silver reflectors
  • Comes with a hardshell case for protection

Give your performance a timeless touch with the Gibson ES-335 Dot, a guitar that is as beautiful to look at as it is to play.

Product specs

Available since June 2021
Hollowbody Guitar No
Semi Hollowbody Guitar Yes
Colour Sunburst
Body Maple
Top Maple
Neck Mahogany
Fretboard Rosewood
Frets 22
Scale 628 mm
Pickups HH
Tremolo No
Incl. Case Yes
Incl. Bag No

FAQs

What kind of music genres is the Gibson ES-335 Dot suitable for?

The Gibson ES-335 Dot is versatile, making it ideal for blues, jazz, rock, and even some country styles due to its semi-hollowbody design and dual humbucker pickups, which provide warm tones and sustain.

How does the neck profile of the Gibson ES-335 Dot affect playability?

The Gibson ES-335 Dot features a Rounded "C" mahogany neck, offering a comfortable grip suitable for various playing styles, from rhythm to lead, enhancing playability for both beginners and seasoned players.

What are the tonal characteristics of the Gibson ES-335 Dot's pickups?

The Gibson ES-335 Dot is equipped with dual humbucker pickups that deliver a rich, warm tone with excellent sustain and clarity, making it well-suited for clean and overdriven sounds across multiple genres.

Is the Gibson ES-335 Dot suitable for live performances?

Yes, the Gibson ES-335 Dot is suitable for live performances, offering a balanced sound with its semi-hollowbody design and humbucker pickups, making it capable of handling both clean and distorted tones with minimal feedback.

Does the Gibson ES-335 Dot come with a case?

Yes, the Gibson ES-335 Dot includes a hardshell case, providing protection and easy transport for the guitar.

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Gibson ES-335 Dot Plain Gloss Electric Guitar

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-335 Dot Plain Gloss Electric Guitar by N Stuff Music

Gibson ES-335 Dot Plain Gloss Electric Guitar

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for ES-335 Dot from Gibson - In-Depth Demo! by N Stuff Music

ES-335 Dot from Gibson - In-Depth Demo!

N Stuff Music

N Stuff Music

Video thumbnail for Gibson Memphis ES-335 Dot Review - An Absolute Classic Guitar! by PMTVUK

Gibson Memphis ES-335 Dot Review - An Absolute Classic Guitar!

PMTVUK

PMTVUK

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-335 Dot Figured-Top Electric Guitar with Gloss Finish by Musician's Friend

Gibson ES-335 Dot Figured-Top Electric Guitar with Gloss Finish

Musician's Friend

Musician's Friend

Video thumbnail for 2003 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue by GregsGuitars

2003 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES 335 2018 Traditional Dark Vintage Natural by Peach Guitars

Gibson ES 335 2018 Traditional Dark Vintage Natural

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES 335 Figured 2016 Natural by Peach Guitars

Gibson ES 335 Figured 2016 Natural

Peach Guitars

Peach Guitars

Video thumbnail for 1981 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue by williesguitars

1981 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue

williesguitars

williesguitars

Video thumbnail for 2013 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue, Custom Shop (sunburst, flames) by GregsGuitars

2013 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue, Custom Shop (sunburst, flames)

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Video thumbnail for Gibson ES-335 Dot Satin Cherry  - Demo by Bahadır Peker

Gibson ES-335 Dot Satin Cherry - Demo

Bahadır Peker

Bahadır Peker

Video thumbnail for Gibson Memphis ES-335 Dot  •  SN: 10163748 by Wildwood Guitars

Gibson Memphis ES-335 Dot • SN: 10163748

Wildwood Guitars

Wildwood Guitars

Video thumbnail for 2003 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue, flame, Part1 by GregsGuitars

2003 Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue, flame, Part1

GregsGuitars

GregsGuitars

Reviews

PROS

  • Exceptional tone versatility, from blues to rock and beyond

  • Outstanding craftsmanship, particularly in finish and fretboard

  • Reliable tuning stability, rarely requiring adjustments

  • Remarkable sustain, enhancing expressive playing

  • Gorgeous design, inspiring frequent play and admiration

  • Calibrated T-Type pickups deliver clear and articulate sound

  • Comfortable playability with smooth neck and well-set intonation

  • AAA flamed top and antique natural finish stand out visually

  • Consistent quality across different production years

  • Iconic status and historical prestige in the music world

CONS

  • High price point may not justify quality for all buyers

  • Some cases have a lid that doesn't stay open

  • Occasional quality control issues, such as uneven wood or paint

  • Heavy weight, not ideal for extended playing sessions

  • Inconsistency in top finish compared to advertised images

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gibson ES-335 Dot.

Build quality

  • A slight QC issue noted is fret nibs not being perfectly filed, though it was easily fixable.

    Source
  • The cutaway design varies, with some preferring the "Mickey Mouse" style ears over pointier versions, indicating a preference for specific reissue models like the '59 or '61.

    Source
  • The truss rod cover on genuine 1988 models typically has a 5/16” nut, a detail confirming authenticity.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The 2023 60s Cherry Dot 335 features unpotted T-Type pickups, which are highlighted for their suitability to the guitar's sound.

    Source
  • Some ES-345 owners miss the varitone switch, which is seen as a defining feature, despite its divisive nature.

    Source
  • The 1988 ES-335 Dot features HB-R pickups, designed by Bill Lawrence, known for their clear, punchy sound akin to humbuckers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners have compared Gibson's recent QC favorably against Fender, noting improvements since new management.

    Source
  • Heritage H-535 is often considered as an alternative to the Gibson ES-335 for its similar style and potentially better quality at a lower price point.

    Source
  • 1980s ES-335 models are noted for having been produced in both Nashville and Memphis, with variances in neck shapes, pickups, and cosmetics, affecting their desirability.

    Source

User experience

  • A 2021 ES-335 was purchased from someone who scoured local stores to find the best unit, indicating variability in quality.

    Source
  • Owners find more variance in ES-335s compared to Les Pauls, suggesting the need to try multiple units before purchasing.

    Source
  • Some owners report that the 1988 models have a finish that may show wear around the serial number due to age, which is typical for guitars over 30 years old.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Some guitars have had poorly cut nuts leading to tuning instability, indicating a potential setup issue.

    Source
  • Gibson Demo Shop listings provide detailed neck profile measurements, unlike some custom shop listings, offering valuable setup information for buyers seeking specific neck dimensions.

    Source

Mods and upgrades

  • It is suggested that a Bigsby B7 could be added with a Vibramate conversion kit, although opinions on this modification are mixed.

    Source

Critic Reviews

The Musician's Room: Review of Gibson Memphis ES-335 DOT Reissue

in2guitar.com

The Gibson ES-335 Dot Reissue impresses with its classic semi-hollow design, delivering the iconic tones associated with legends like Will Owsley and Warren Haynes. Its airy '57 Classic humbuckers capture vintage warmth, making it a versatile choice for rock, blues, and jazz. While the slim neck diverges slightly from true vintage specs and some purists bemoan the modern Grover tuners, the guitar offers an impressive blend of sustain and tone. Minor finish flaws exist, but the overall craftsmanship and sound quality make it a worthy pursuit for those chasing classic ES-335 vibes.

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5.0 out of 5

Based on 4 Reviews and 17 Ratings

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143

A Behemoth

This is not a guitar, it's a terminator. Comfortable, versatile, elegant, capable of producing a crystalline clean and a distorted sound that raises the dead... moreover, it has a special timbre that I have not seen in other semi-hollow guitars. An absolute blast 10/10.

This review has been translated automatically into English. See original
paulsmithiii

Super bluesy and much, much more!

I originally opted for an Eastman T-186 mx for this style of guitar. Love the Eastman! What originally drew me to it was the thinner neck. However after spending more time on my Telecaster 50's re-issue and my Gibson Les Paul (both with pretty fat necks) I longed to have an actual ES-335. For a long time I've admired the ones that Carl Wilson played throughout his career with The Beach Boys. His were custom builds that i've never been able to find anywhere else. But mine shares that beautiful natural finish and delivers the great variation of tone that made it a favorite of Eric Clapton, Eric Johnson and so many others. I'm extremely happy with this guitar and have named her Ollie after our sweet dog Olive that finally had to leave us after 14 years.

F

The Dot is amazing.

The unmatched ES-335 tone. nothing like it. The heart and soul of a thousand hits.

djlove_stellarmusic

Happy Birthday To Me

I've wanted an ES-335 in sunburst for years. Several years passed and I've collected many guitars, but on my 46th birthday (August 2015), I finally dropped the coin for a brand new one.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how David Gilmour uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

David Gilmour

Guitarist

Pink Floyd

...
Verified via Photo

David can be seen using a Gibson ES-335 in studio.

See how Eric Clapton uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Christies

Eric Clapton's 2003 Gibson ES-335 Dot was donated by Otis Rush, as verified by Christie's auction listing.

See how Synyster Gates uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Synyster Gates

Singer, Guitarist

Avenged Sevenfold

...
Verified via YouTube

In a behind the scenes video taken in the 'city of evil' days (2005), Syn can be seen at the end of this video @7:14 playing and allegedly recording the clean guitars in Bat country, using this Gibson ES-335 Dot.

See how Justin Vernon uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Justin Vernon

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Iver

...
Verified via Photo

Used in 2011 for BI songs

See how Tom Petty uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Tom Petty

Singer, Guitarist

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers

...
Verified via Photo

In this image you can see Tom playing a vintage sunburst Gibson ES-335 during one of his concerts.

See how FKJ uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

FKJ

Guitarist, Bassist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this youtube video of "On My Own" posted on Jul 18, 2019, you can see at 0:12 that FKJ's playing a Gibson ES-335. Judging by the inlays it's a Dot model.

See how Richie Sambora uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Richie Sambora

Singer, Guitarist

Bon Jovi

...
Verified via Photo

In this picture, Sambora was photographed playing the Gibson ES-335 Dot Natural Electric Guitar live on stage in 2009.

See how Dave Keuning uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Dave Keuning

Guitarist

The Killers

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video of Dave Keuning performing live with The Killers, he can be seen playing a Gibson ES-335 Dot Gloss (Vintage Sunburst finish) on The Late Show with David Letterman.

See how Mitski uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Mitski

Singer, Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

In this live performance for AEA Sessions she plays a Gibson ES-335

See how Andrew Stockdale uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Andrew Stockdale

Singer, Guitarist

Wolfmother

...
Verified via YouTube

In the official video for "White Feather" by Wolfmother, Andrew Stockdale can be seen playing a Yamaha SA2200, not the Gibson ES-335 Dot Natural Electric Guitar.

See how Kevin McKeown uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Kevin McKeown

Guitarist

Black Pistol Fire

...
Verified via YouTube

Played for KUTX Pop-Up Session at ACL Fest

See how Theo Katzman uses Gibson ES-335 Dot

Theo Katzman

Singer, Guitarist

Vulfpeck

...
Verified via YouTube

This guitar can be seen throughout this entire video.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Gibson ES-335 Dot, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 238

1 alternative for Gibson ES-335 Dot, curated by the Equipboard community.

Gibson ES-335

$2,555.00 - $3,499.00

similar sound cheaper alternative

The Gibson ES-335 Dot has been known by more than one name over the last three decades, but it's undoubtedly singular in its popularity as one of Gibson's most well-known reissues. First known as the ES-335 Dot, then renamed the ES-335 Reissue in the '90s, this instrument is based on the technical specs of its 1960s predecessor.

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