I have three Telecasters: A made in Mexico Fender Deluxe Blackout with three pickups, which I feel is a great guitar, even at about 600 U.S. dollars. I also have a new, made in China Squier Classic Vibe Tele, which is a stupendous bargain for about 350 U.S. $, and is an excellent guitar overall. My third Tele is a butterscotch blonde made in China Squier Affinity which goes for about $180. Obviously, it is not in the same class as the first two, but it's a rather nice starter electric guitar (which, for me, it was).

Now, I hope that these comparisons help you put that Japanese Squier Tele in perspective: The Blackout Tele has more tonal range than either the Japanese or Classic Vibe Tele ... but the difference in price makes the Classic Vibe a great bargain. I doubt that the used Japanese Tele will be noticeably better than a Classic Vibe ... perhaps a new CV will even be the better player ... for less cash.

Good luck in your Telecaster Quest!