Best
Guitar Capo Overall
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Overall: With a sophisticated finish to look superb with almost any guitar finish
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Best Feature: Features an intuitive design for a smooth performance
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TedScore™: 9.2/10
Best
Partial Capo
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Overall: Adjust the screw to control the tension on your guitar neck
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Best Feature: Perfect for effortless performances
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Capo for Electric Guitar
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Overall: With a new mechanism that allows ultra-precise placement
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Best Feature: Has adjustable tension and complete control
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
Thinking about **buying a guitar capo**? The answer is simple: **Absolutely**! A guitar capo makes a **world of difference**. They’re a _must-have_ for any guitar lover. Check out our list of the **top guitar capos**—a fantastic way to kick off your musical journey!
When it comes to selecting the right guitar capos for you, it can be tough to decide which one to choose. There are so many options available on the market today, each with its own unique features and benefits.
But don’t worry! With some research and knowledge, you can find the best guitar capo deals and be happy that your choice is the right one. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you out and save you the headache.
Make sure to keep scrolling to find the perfect capo for your guitar!
What is a Capo?
Guitar capos are external devices that players fasten on the neck to effectively shorten the guitar strings and raise the pitch. Capos can be used to transpose a chord progression on the fly when jamming with other musicians and are designed to change the instrument’s key or revoice chords to create a different key to play in.
Guitar capos can make playing guitar much easier as they allow players to use fewer chords. And by shortening the length of strings, capos allow guitarists to play with ease in different keys and scales. Overall, a guitar capo is a useful (and standard) tool for any guitarist.
How Does It Work?
How a guitar capo affects a guitar’s tuning stability depends on which fret it was placed on and its length. A capo on the first fret will produce an arbitrary nut, shortening the strings and creating a higher pitch. As you move up the fretboard, the capo’s effect becomes more pronounced, causing guitar strings to become thinner and buzzier as they reach higher frets.
If you place a guitar capo on any fret, that string will become shorter and buzzier as you go up the scale. As with any adjustment to your instrument’s tuning stability, it’s important to understand how a capo affects your guitar’s overall tone and feel before using one.
Do Electric Guitars Need Capo?
A capo is usually used to increase the range of chords that can be played on a guitar, but the electric guitar is usually used to play single notes rather than chords.
When using a capo on an acoustic and electric guitar, it’s important to use one that’s suitable for the instrument and the size of the strings. Some standard acoustic capos can be used on electric guitars, but they aren’t common. You should be careful not to press down too hard on the strings when using a capo on an electric guitar, as this could cause them to go sharp.
Why Should I Buy a Guitar Capo?
Reason 1
Changing your keys effortlessly. If you love a song but find it difficult to sing in the original key, guitar capos allow you to easily switch to a different key by moving the frets closer together. With this tool, you’ll have no trouble playing in the key that suits you best.
Reason 2
Open up new chord possibilities. Sometimes, using open chords can give you that perfect sound that you’re looking for. A capo lets you play in those open chords more often without worrying about complicated finger positioning. This will give you access to a wider variety of chords and sounds.
Reason 3
Easier playing up the neck. If you’ve ever tried to play barre chords, you know that it can be a challenge to your fingers. A capo simplifies things, reducing the amount of effort you need to play the same chords up the neck. Using a capo will make it a breeze.
Reason 4
Change the tuning of your guitar. Without a capo, changing the entire tuning of your guitar is a time-consuming process. With a capo, you can effectively raise the pitch of all your strings by two notes, making them sound like they’re in a new key. This means that you can create a new sound quickly and easily.
Reason 5
Get the most out of survival mode. If you’re caught having to play a song in an unfamiliar key, a capo can save the day. Simply clamp it on a fret, and voilà! You’re playing in an entirely new key. This means you’ll be able to perform at your best without spending hours practising and rehearsing.
Factors to Consider when Buying a Capo
Fretboard Radius
Different guitars have different fretboard radii, so you need to make sure that the curvature of the capo bar matches the curvature of the fretboard as defined by its radius. If you choose a capo that doesn’t match up with the fretboard radius, it can result in strings being stretched out of tune and buzzing.
To avoid this problem, either get a capo with an adjustable design or one with interchangeable capo bars or feet.
Neck Size and Shape
The capo should fit the guitar and match its neck size and shape to provide a tight fit. For example, if you’re using a capo on a guitar with an oval neck, you may need to use one with a more rectangular profile or one that’s slightly longer or shorter than the standard capo.
Another option is to use two capos, one on each side of the guitar neck. The best capos for your guitar will depend on chord shape, the type of music you play and personal preferences, but many companies make multiple capos to fit all kinds of guitar necks and fretboard .shapes.
Ease of Use
The main function of a guitar capo is to make it easy for guitarists to play in different keys and scales by shortening the length of their strings. A capo should be used easily on any fret, creating a new nut that allows guitarists to play in higher positions or at a different tuning.
However, be careful when using capos. You should constantly monitor your fingers to ensure that they’re not fretting a note that’s already playable or putting pressure on other notes.
Size and Weight of Capo
A lightweight, compact and versatile capo that is ideal for travelling musicians or those who need an easy-to-store capo. Heavy-duty, quality capos are designed for more rigorous use and are better suited for professional guitarists. The material used to construct the capo can affect its durability and sound quality.
Rubber, steel, and aluminium are some of the most popular materials for creating the best guitar capos. These caps are available in various sizes and shapes, making them ideal for different guitars and playing styles.
Force of Capo Clamping Mechanism
When buying the best guitar capo, consider the force needed to fret the strings and prevent buzzing. Spring capos are best avoided as they cannot be adjusted to prevent string buzz without de-tuning. Clamp capos can be adjusted using a squeeze or a screw to tighten and ensure precise pressure on all the strings.
These capos hold down all strings while pressing them across the frets, allowing you to play with ease and precision.
Type of Instrument
Whether it’s an acoustic, electric, or classical guitars, each one has unique features and requirements. For example, steel-string guitars have curved fingerboards, whereas nylon-string guitars tend to have flatter ones. Therefore, you’ll need a capo that fits the radius of your guitar’s fingerboard. Plus, acoustic guitars are generally made of wood, which affects the capo’s grip and pressure on the strings.
By taking the time to carefully consider your guitar before purchasing a capo, you’ll be able to ensure that you make the right choice and enjoy playing your instrument even more.s
Types of Capos You Can Buy
Strap Capos
A strap capo is a simple type of capo that can be secured to the fretboard with an elastic strap. It’s easy to use and allows for easy sliding across the fretboard. However, this type and style of capo can slip from its position and affect the tune of the guitar.
DESIGNED FOR: steel string guitars
FEATURES: With a sophisticated finish to look superb with almost any guitar finish
OTHER INFO: With classic, world-renowned Shubb quality for a smooth-sailing performance
Shubb C1 Steel String Guitar Capo, Polished Nickel
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Features an intuitive design for a smooth performance
- A perfect accessory for sonic experimentation
- More expensive than other brands
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: A high-end capo with an expertly engineered design for effortless pitch changes
OTHER INFO: Boasts Kyser's world-renowned quality and legendary, unique design
Kyser Quick-Change Capo, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- With instantly recognisable, classy Kyser looks to match any guitar
- It may not be the best fit for larger necks or 12-string guitars
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Trigger Capos
Trigger capos, also known as clamp capos, are the most common type of capo and allow you to secure the capo tightly on the strings. These capos are often used in acoustic guitar playing as they allow for more precise tuning and reduce guitar buzz. They’re also more versatile than strap capos as they can be placed at any point on the neck and adjusted to fit any length string setup.
Trigger capos are best for intermediate to professional guitarists who want a quick way to change their guitar’s tuning without compromising tone and performance.
DESIGNED FOR: acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: Has a steel spring with internal memory to provide strength and fatigue resistance
OTHER INFO: With soft rubber pads or firm string tension and great protection
Donner DC-2 Guitar Capo
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Built with strong rust resistance & high-strength metal
- Stays in tune with great intonation and clear tone in all frets
- It can't be clamped onto the headstock like other capos, which may be a deal breaker for some players
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: 6 or 12-string acoustic guitars
FEATURES: Has exceptional durability courtesy of aircraft-quality aluminium
OTHER INFO: With padding to ensure guitar protection
Dunlop 83CB Trigger Capo, Acoustic Curved, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Provides secure clamping
- Super easy to use thanks to smooth spring-action
- Higher price range compared to other capo brands
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Screw Capos
Screw capos are an effective way to personalize the tension on a guitar based on neck size, string action, and fret position. Most screw capos have a tension adjustment that allows the user to fine-tune the pressure on the strings. They’re commonly used in acoustic guitar playing to change the tone or play different styles of music. They’re also handy for singers who want to change the pitch of their voice between songs.
DESIGNED FOR: steel strings, acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: Built with a soft yet sturdy roller for sensationally smooth action
OTHER INFO: With exceptional durability courtesy of a stainless steel construction
Shubb S1 Deluxe Capo
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Quick and easy to use
- Requires little adjustment no matter where on the neck you use it
- More expensive than other screw capos
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: 6 or 12-string acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: With sleek, high-quality aluminium construction for durability
OTHER INFO: Comes with a micrometre adjuster for applying the right amount of tension
Planet Waves NS Capo, Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A product collaboration between D'Addario and Ned Steinberger
- Provides exquisite performance with clarity, free of any string muting or buzzing
- Slightly more expensive compared to other counterparts
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Toggle Capos
A toggle capos is the simplest design out of all the different capos on the market. It works by using an adjustable strap to set to the tension you need for your guitar neck. It’s like a latch that you can snap tight to hold down the strings on your fretboard.
The toggle capo is also designed for both curved fretboards and flat fingerboards so that you can use it on all kinds of guitars.
DESIGNED FOR: acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: Has a curved shape for easy and comfortable fretting
OTHER INFO: Has a spring-loaded design that makes it easy to attach and take off
Jim Dunlop 14C Professional Curved Capo
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Made from durable materials for long-term use
- Easily fits on the guitar neck without any problems
- Provides clear and ringing tone across all frets
- A bit more expensive than some other options
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: most classical guitars
FEATURES: With exclusive adjust-o-strap for fine adjustments
OTHER INFO: Designed for flat fingerboards
Dunlop JD-14F Professional Capo with Toggle (Flat)
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- With a nickel-plated construction
- Has toggle action design for extremely positive clamping
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Has a non-adjustable tension
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Partial Capos
Partial capos mimic the effect of alternate tuning without re-tuning the guitar. They can be used to play different, creative alternate tunings and give a unique sound to your playing. Partial capos can work with guitars that have up to five strings, but most players use partial capos with guitars that have four or three strings.
There are several types of partial capo available, including those that feature a thumb loop or groove for ease of use and those that are universal, which cover a range of different tuning keys.
DESIGNED FOR: performing guitarists
FEATURES: Adjust the screw to control the tension on your guitar neck
OTHER INFO: Ideal for musicians who need to make speedy changes on stage
G7th Newport Partial Capo 3-String, Silver
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- With a sleek, lightweight design
- Holds down 3 strings on a 6 string guitar
- Perfect for effortless performances
- Higher price range
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
DESIGNED FOR: performing guitarists
FEATURES: With hard rubber for durability
OTHER INFO: Gives your chords different voicings
Kyser KG3 Short-Cut Partial Capo
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Super easy to put on and remove with one hand
- Allows fast action during performances
- Might not be suitable for all types of music
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
What Capo is Best for Each Guitar Type?
Best capo for acoustic guitar
The best acoustic guitar capo will depend on the size of the guitar neck and the type of strings used. If you’re using classical or steel-string acoustic guitar, a smaller capo may be preferable since it allows easier finger access to higher notes on the neck. However, if you’re using an electric guitar or bass, a large capo will allow for a tighter string bend.
DESIGNED FOR: most steel string guitars, acoustic or electric
FEATURES: Designed to look classy on almost any guitar with its brushed nickel finish
OTHER INFO: A simple design that's easy to use and adjust
Shubb C1 Steel String Guitar Capo, Brushed Nickel
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- A must-have accessory for guitarists craving sonic experimentation
- With high-end design infused with world-renowned Shubb quality
- A little pricey compared to other options on the market
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best capo for Electric guitar
The standard capos for acoustic guitars can be used for electric guitars. When using an electric guitar capo, it’s vital not to press down too hard on the strings as this can lead to sharpening. Instead, players can use capos to play the same chord shapes at different keys or pitches.
DESIGNED FOR: acoustic and electric guitars
FEATURES: With a new mechanism that allows ultra-precise placement
OTHER INFO: Has adjustable tension and complete control
G7th Performance 2 Guitar Capo, Silver
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Also fits nicely on your headstock
- Securely fits your guitar
- Some users claim it can be a bit tricky to use at first
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best capo for classical guitar
It’s important to buy a capo that’s made and designed specifically for classical guitars and not just steel-string acoustic guitars. Their unique design will allow the capo to fit securely without causing damage.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitars
FEATURES: Fits comfortably around nylon strings thanks to a rubber cushion
OTHER INFO: Will stand the test of time owing to robust heavy-duty zinc construction
Ortega OCAPO-CR Nylon String Capo, Chrome
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Curved design enables improved fretboard contact
- For creative tunings with your classical guitar
- Designed specifically for nylon strings only
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Guitar Capos
Summary
Using a capo is an easy and effective way to expand your range. If you have limited finger strength or flexibility, a capo can help you play songs that would otherwise be too difficult to sing and play at the same time.
It’s crucial to consider factors such as adjustability, tension control, and overall durability when choosing. If you’re on a tight budget, there are some reliable guitar capo options that won’t cost you an arm and a leg. But most importantly, pick a great capo that will enhance your guitar-playing experience and make your music sound even better.
By buying one, you’ll be opening up new musical avenues and making your life as a guitarist easier. So go ahead and treat yourself to this fantastic tool today!
While the article succinctly covers the various types of capos and their applicability to different guitar types, it falls short in explaining the theoretical implications of using a capo, such as the shift in modal interchange possibilities and the resultant change in overtone series resonance. A deeper dive into how capos affect harmonic structures and the player’s approach to modality would complement the practical advice given.
i’ve always thought the debate on whether or not to use a capo is kinda like arguing if pineapple belongs on pizza. it’s all about taste, isn’t it? but yeah, different strokes for different folks. though, gotta say, this article nails the part about considering the neck size and shape when buying a capo. got one that was too tight once, and it wasn’t fun. always had to fight with it just to get it on the guitar. not cool.
Really liking the capo breakdown, Lewis Turner. Helps a lot with showing options to students. Everyone’s got their pref!
So, let me get this straight, we’re putting jewelry on guitars now? Next, you’ll tell me my Tele needs a diamond necklace. But seriously, folks, do people not just learn to play in a different key anymore, or is that too much like actual work?
I have to disagree with the suggestion in the article that trigger capos are the best for electric guitars. In my experience, screw capos allow for much more precise pressure adjustment, which is essential for delicate intonation on electric strings.
A comprehensive article, Lewis. Your section on choosing the right capo based on the fretboard radius was particularly enlightening. Many musicians overlook this, leading to uneven pressure and poor sound transmission. Well done.
Has anyone tried using a partial capo on an electric guitar? Wonder how it impacts the sound compared to an acoustic. Lewis Turner’s article got me curious.
It makes your electric guitar sound like it’s trying to be an acoustic. Identity crisis!
It’s quite nifty on electric, especially for open tunings. Changes the vibe completely.
hey, just wondering, does using a capo on an electric guitar mess with the intonation? wanna make sure before i mess up my sound. thanks!
Nah, Mia88, you’re good. Just make sure it’s placed right, and you tune up after clamping it. Rock on!