Difference between Fender Strat MIJ and MIA?

[staxtics]

I'm planning to get a Fender strat but not sure if I should get the MIJ or MIA, what are the differences?

 

[subversion]

do you have a specific models we can comment on? fundamentally, Jap & American Strats sport different specs.

 

[zesn]

I believe they're gonna sound the same when they get onto your hands.

I'm not a pro but here's the stuff i considered before i got my MIA tele.

General considerations
-21 or 22 frets
-Gloss neck or Satin neck finish
-Hardware and workmanship
-Body wood (i remember the cheaper MIJ models have basswood instead of alder)

 

[seeyoudownthere]

It's usually the components used and where they're made. There's a bias that US parts are better but probably 99.9% undetectable where this 'adds value' to average joe's. Of course labour also affects the prices but in my opinion, i've seen superior build & finish quality in Japanese built guitars (not necessarily Fender by the way). At the end of the day, try as many as you can and make your mind up. No 2 guitars are exactly the same, although they'll be close, and it comes down to the one you feel best with along with the best sound. Where it is made should actually be irrelevant unless you're supporting one particular country! Is MIA or MIJ better? You'll read conflicting opinions in various forums but that's another discussion!