Best
Overall Capo for Electric Guitar
-
Overall: steel six-string acoustic or electric guitars
-
Best Feature: Maintains tuning integrity as you control the tension
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Capo for Flat Fingerboards
-
Overall: electric and acoustic guitars
-
Best Feature: With optimum clamping pressure for completely buzz-free key changes
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Capo for Curved Fingerboards
-
Overall: With trigger-action design for superb tuning stability
-
Best Feature: Has a micrometre tension adjustment that fits perfectly on almost any guitar neck
-
TedScore™: 8.8/10
Playing the perfect chord on an electric guitar feels impressive. But to capture that magic with different tunes, finding the best guitar capo for electric is crucial.
It’s a handy tool that can completely change your playing style, giving you access to new keys without needing to retune. It’s like having a little sidekick that boosts your creativity while you play.
Keep reading, and we’ll navigate the world of capos to find one that fits your guitar perfectly. Just imagine – with the perfect capo, your guitar’s voice will sing in tune while you rock the riffs.
Let’s explore the world of capos together, it’ll be fun, I promise!
What Different Types of Capos Can I Purchase for Electric Guitar?
Capos can be designed for guitars, such as acoustic, electric, flat fretboards, curved fretboards, nylon strings, and even stainless steel strings.
For electric guitars, it’s best to use an adjustable capo tensioned correctly for your guitar’s fretboard and playing style. The best way to use a capo is to clamp it directly to your guitar’s neck and fretboard at the desired fret position.
Another way to use a capo is by clamping it onto your guitar’s tuning head or bridge plate at the desired fret position and playing normally. Capos can help you play the guitar in different positions easily and effectively.
Strap Capos
A strap capo is a type that attaches to the guitar neck with an elastic strap. These capos are simple to use but can be prone to slipping. Strap capos have a bar that rests on the strings and is secured to the guitar by a strap that wraps around the neck.
This is popular with beginners because it’s easy to use and inexpensive, but it can be challenging to adjust quickly with one hand, and the fabric can fray over time.
DESIGNED FOR: steel string guitars
FEATURES: Has a sophisticated finish that matches every guitar's look
OTHER INFO: With an intuitive design to ensure a smooth 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!
- Offers great sonic experimentation to players
- Prevents constant tuning of your guitar
- A high-end capo built for the best playing experience
- A bit pricier compared to 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: electric and acoustic guitars, ukulele, banjo and mandolin
FEATURES: Made of high-grade zinc alloy metal and delicate silicone pad
OTHER INFO: Offers perfectly balanced pressure for that clear tone
WINGO Guitar Capo for 6-String Acoustic Electric Steel Guitars, Rosewood
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!
- Designed with a uniquely beautiful wood finish
- Built to protect your guitar from any scratches or damage
- Can be quickly and easily released and repositioned
- There have been reports of it not holding up for long periods of use
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
Toggle capos are a type of capo that use a toggle to put pressure on the strings and a strap to adjust the tension. They’re small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around.
Toggle capos have an advantage over other capo types in that they can be tightened in increments along notches on the back of the toggle capo. This allows for quick and easy adjustment of the toggle capo’s tension without using a screwdriver or other tools.
DESIGNED FOR: guitars with curved-radius fretboards
FEATURES: Made of nickel-plated material
OTHER INFO: With an adjustable strap and sleek ergonomic design
Dunlop 11C Advanced Toggle 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!
- Light and simple to use
- Has a low profile that won't get in the way of your playing
- Specifically designed for guitars with curved-radius fretboards 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™.
DESIGNED FOR: steel six-string acoustic or electric guitars
FEATURES: Designed for one-handed use, in any sized hands
OTHER INFO: Maintains tuning integrity as you control the tension
G7th Performance 2 Steel String Guitar Capo for 6-String Guitar
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!
- Stores easily behind the nut for quick and easy access or on the headstock
- Award-winning quality
- Versatile and super easy to use
- More expensive than 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™.
The G7th Performance 2 Steel String Guitar Capo for 6-String Guitar is a standout choice, offering a sleek design and easy one-handed operation.
What sets it apart from other capos on this list is its Adaptive Radius Technology, which ensures a perfect fit across all the strings, resulting in excellent tuning stability and minimal fret buzz.
While the G7th Performance 2 may come with a higher price tag than some competing capos, its exceptional construction, easy usability, and consistent performance justify the investment for guitarists in search of a top-notch capo.
Using this capo on my electric guitar, I feel like the strings are just held down effortlessly, making it a breeze to switch chords and keep a consistent, clear tone no matter which fret I’m playing on.
Trigger Capos
Trigger capos are also known as “quick-change capos” as they can be moved around quickly with one hand. The Trigger capo offers quick adjustment and easy operation with a spring-controlled lever pull handle that allows you to add or remove it quickly.
DESIGNED FOR: electric and acoustic guitars
FEATURES: With optimum clamping pressure for completely buzz-free key changes
OTHER INFO: Comes with soft moulded rubber pads to keep your guitar safe and free from damage
Ernie Ball Axis 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!
- Quick clamping spring makes using this capo speedy and hassle-free
- Has dual radius design - can be used on both curved and flat fretboards
- A high-quality capo from a trusted brand
- Lets you change keys with confidence
- Some users have experienced issues with the tension spring over time
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: curved-radius electric guitars
FEATURES: Made from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminium
OTHER INFO: With a strong spring-action clamp to keep it firmly in place
Dunlop Capo Trigger Electric, 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!
- Comes with special padding to protect your guitar's neck from scratches
- Allows you to quickly and easily change keys with a squeeze of the hand
- Designed with a slim profile for easy playing
- Some users have noted that its finish can start to chip or wear off over time
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™.
Adjustable Screw Capos
Unlike other capos that use spring-loaded mechanisms, Adjustable Screw Capos utilize an adjustable screw system to clamp onto the fretboard.
This means that you can adjust the pressure and positioning of the capo more precisely than with other types of capos. The adjustable screw capo allows for greater tension on strings, making it better for acoustic and electric guitars.
DESIGNED FOR: all steel string acoustic, electrics, and hybrid nylon string guitars
FEATURES: Provides even pressure across all strings with its Adaptive Radius Technology
OTHER INFO: Comes with internal silicone pads to protect your guitar's finish
G7th Performance 3 Art, 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!
- Can be adjusted quickly and easily thanks to unique tension control
- Offers a stress-free playing experience
- Quite an expensive capo
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: electric and acoustic guitars
FEATURES: With trigger-action design for superb tuning stability
OTHER INFO: Has a micrometre tension adjustment that fits perfectly on almost any guitar neck
Planet Waves NS Tri-Action 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!
- Built with lightweight aluminium to maintain a slick playing feel
- Comes with an integrated pick holder and tuner mounting bracket
- Liberates your performance to any key you wish
- Slightly pricier compared to 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™.
Yoke Capos
Yoke capos use a screw to apply pressure to the back of the neck, providing good tension control. They’re named for their yoke-like shape, and they use this design to clamp onto different guitar neck plates and provide tension.
These capos are often difficult to adjust and manoeuvre, leading to inconsistent playing performance. However, yoke capos provide great tension control and help guitarists produce a consistent sound.
DESIGNED FOR: typical modern 1-11/16" guitar necks
FEATURES: Has a unique design with an advanced quick-release mechanism, allowing for precise control of string pressure
OTHER INFO: Built with an ultra-thin design
Paige™ Original Capo P-6E, Ebony
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 felt feature for added protection
- Lets you move quickly and easily
- Can be stored behind the nut
- Can't be used above the 6th fret
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: guitars with wider necks
FEATURES: Has an around-the-neck yoke design for even tension
OTHER INFO: With excellent tuning stability, intonation, and tone
Taylor Guitars: Guitar Capo 6-string
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!
- When not in use, it can be conveniently placed under the nut
- Has a bright nickel finish
- Requires some effort to put on and remove
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™.
A Guide to Choosing the Right Guitar Capo for Electric Guitar
Choosing the appropriate capo for your electric guitar can be confusing with so many options available. While acoustic and electric guitar capos are interchangeable, the capo you choose depends on your playing style and guitar type.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, a comprehensive guide to purchasing a capo can help you make an informed decision.
Neck Size & Shape
One crucial factor in finding the best guitar capo for your electric guitar is the size and shape of the neck of your guitar. Electric guitars with rounder and smaller necks require an appropriately sized capo to ensure optimal performance. Ultimately, various companies produce sizes to fit neck widths and shapes.
Curved or Flat Fingerboards
It’s important to consider the curvature of your guitar’s fingerboard. You see, steel-string guitars have curved fingerboards, while classical guitars typically have flat ones. So, when selecting a capo, you want to ensure that it fits the curve or flatness of your guitar’s fingerboard, allowing all the strings to be clamped down evenly.
Each guitar manufacturer selects a fingerboard radius appropriate for their product, which can be a subtle factor in why some capos work better. So, take some time to consider the curvature of your guitar’s fingerboard before making your purchase.
Full & Partial Capos
Full capos are great for shortening all strings across the fingerboard, giving you the ability to sing and play for all keys. On the other hand, partial capos can be used to simplify chords and mimic the effects of alternate tunings without having to constantly re-tune them.
They come in different sizes, too, catering for covering up to five strings. Just remember to pay attention to the radius of the partial capo so that it fits well on your instrument.
Pressure & Intonation
When choosing a capo, look for one that provides the pressure that best fits your guitar to achieve optimal performance. Ensure it will provide the right pressure and intonation for your instrument. Incorrect pressure from a capo can lead to intonation problems, but adjustable capos exist to prevent this.
This type of capo adjusts tension on each string individually for perfect intonation.
Convenience & Storage
Convenience comes into play when you’re playing your instrument, and storage is important when you’re not. One popular way to keep your capo handy while playing is to leave it on your guitar’s nut or headstock. This is convenient because you can easily locate it when you need it.
On the other hand, if you prefer to store your capo between uses, you may want to look for a compact and easy-to-store option. Some capos can be rolled up or are small enough to fit in a pocket or guitar case.
Tips on How to Correctly Place a Capo on an Electric Guitar
Tip 1
Place the capo behind the desired fret to ensure you get the correct pitch. Don’t place it on the fret itself, which can cause unwanted pitch sharpening.
Tip 2
Experiment with open tunings. When you put the capo on, tune each string individually to ensure all strings are pressed equally. This will help avoid changing the tuning. Also, try placing the capo at other frets to identify the sounding chords correctly.
Tip 3
Don’t over-tighten. Be careful not to overtighten the capo when placing it on the guitar. Tighten the strap until it is snug, but do not apply too much pressure, which can damage the strings.
Tip 4
Only place your finger on the capo before the metal bar. You want your capo placement right before the metal bar and never directly on top. The correct placement of the capo is right behind the fret to get the best results when playing.
Tip 5
Using a great capo is a vital skill. Understanding how to use a capo on an electric guitar is vital for every aspiring guitarist. It’s an awesome tool that will transform how you play your guitar.
What Is The Best Guitar Capo For Electric?
Summary
When searching for the best electric guitar capo, consider factors such as ease of use, durability, and how well it fits your specific guitar model. Look for a capo that provides excellent fretting while maintaining tuning stability for optimal performance.
The best capo for guitar is one that’s curved to fit the guitar’s fretboard, has thinner padding, and variable tension for better sound and less damage. These features will ensure that the capo is easy to use, produces great sound quality, and is less likely to cause damage to your guitar in the long run.
We hope this guide helped you figure out the perfect capo for your electric guitar. With some of the best guitar capos, capo tips and our accessory recommendations, we hope you’ll have the best musical experience!
Happy playing! And remember – don’t forget to read our 21 Essential Guitar Accessories article!
Through my extensive experience playing both acoustic and electric guitars, I’ve found the nuanced discussion around capos particularly interesting. The article provided a broad overview of types, yet I felt a deeper delve into how the pressure exerted by different capos can alter an instrument’s intonation would greatly benefit readers seeking to optimize their sound. Indeed, while strap capos offer simplicity and affordability, their accuracy and pressure distribution can’t match the precise control afforded by an adjustable screw capo, especially on an electric guitar where the action and neck dimensions heavily influence playability and comfort. Moreover, while the guide to placing a capo correctly is universally applicable, nuances in technique can further refine a player’s tone and sustain. Sharing some of these insights could elevate the discussion and provide readers with valuable practical knowledge.
hey, does it matter if I use a cheap capo or is it worth investing in a pricier one for better sound quality? I’m still a bit confused lol
Definitely worth getting a good one, Jenny. A bad capo can mess with your tuning and even damage your guitar’s neck over time.
Interesting points on the types of capos. However, I think you’ve slightly understated the importance of pressure and intonation, especially for electric guitar performance. It’s crucial to find a capo that doesn’t bend the strings too much, causing tuning issues. Would love to hear more about how each capo type affects tuning stability.
Really appreciated the section on choosing the right capo for electric guitars. I’ve been playing for a couple of years but never realized how much of a difference the neck size and shape could make. Thanks for the insight, Lewis!