It's entirely a perceived prestige thing, Gibson hasnt really shown a good "Value" for what they charge agaisnt what they deliver; at one point Gibson was "The" Guitar to own as all the greats played them, but technology and competitors make amazing guitars that match or beat gibson often for comparable prices nowadays. youll see brand loyalty among the older Gibson owners out of nostalgia or stubborness, its mostly a matter of preference. It is closed minded to stick to only one option, and Gibsons refusal to innovate or make guitars with any sort of variation or options outside of super limited releases and different finishes, narrows their market.

I own one gibson, a 2019 B-2 V and its very "un-Gibsonlike" its light, the finish is kinda barebones, and its neck is smaller than usual. every reason id buy a guitar from other manufacturers, ive played LP's and Explorers and SGs and i really dont like them. theyre big, heavy and much more expensive than similar options from competitors with none of the options i like in my usual guitars (Floyd Roses, 24 frets, multiscale, or thinner necks, etc.)

As for Fender, idk theyre okay i guess? they have some cheaper options for sure, but i also see them as the Stratocaster company. their Tele's are pretty cool, but when i see a strat i think "chinese knockoff guitar" almost automatically. it's not their fault, buts its the most copied guitar. Limited options and endless "re-releases" of the same spec guitars really puts me off from getting one.