Typically, it does not include the stylized neck binding of other models, or mother-of-pearl, trapezoid fret inlays.

Most SG Specials (like their Standard counterpart) have a volume and tone knob for each pickup and a 3-way selector switch.

Gibson has reduced cost further with the faded series, which has a rougher and less finished stained body.

As of 2014 Gibson has changed the neck wood from mahogany to maple, as well as completely done away with the pickguard, to further reduce cost.

[1] The example pictured on the right is not one of the cheaper models but in 1998 and 1999 the SG Special Limited Edition which was a higher-end version with all gold hardware and ebony fingerboard; at the time it retailed at $1,500 to $2,200.