It is essential to understand the different types of electric guitar bridges when you're trying to buy one to replace the old one on your guitar.
So basically, there are fixed bridges and tremolo bridges, and each has their subtypes and components.
Fixed Bridge
Wraparound Bridge
Wraparound bridge was invented by Gibson. It’s a single bar with dedicated string slots. The only adjustable part of this bridge is string height. That said, it’s not an obsolete guitar part, brands like PRS and Gibson continue to use it to this day.
Tune-o-Matic
Another Gibson invention, this bridge came out in 1952 as a result of evolution of the wraparound and is what Les Paul guitars feature. For starters, you can adjust the intonation on each string. Secondly, strings go from the bridge to a stop tail bar forming an angle that enhances sustain. Finally, strings don’t wrap anywhere but are loaded through the stop tail bar.
Hardtail
You’ll often see hardtail bridges on Telecasters as well as some Stratocasters. With individual saddles for each string, or the three-saddle setup for classic Telecasters, they allow for individually adjusting each string's height and length for intonation.
Tremolo System
Floating Tremolo
Also called a ‘synchronized tremolo’ by Fender. Springs are attached to the back hold the bridge in place. Featuring a saddle layout similar to some hardtail bridges, you get a lot of flexibility for intonation and action adjustments.
Locking Tremolo
The most famous is Floyd Rose locking tremolo. It is locking tremolo balances the string tension, bridge, and springs. You can loosen the strings dramatically and it will return straight to pitch when you let go.
Roller Tremolo
Roller tremolo is most commonly known by the name of its biggest brand, the Bigsby. Your strings are attached to a stop bar that’s moved by a spring-loaded tremolo arm back and forth over your bridge, thus resulting in the vibrato effect.
