Best Capo in 2021 – Awesome Capos for your Guitar

Talking about a versatile guitar player, the best capo like other tools can be helpful. Experts say that acoustic guitars need a high-quality capo to play a wide variety of tunes. It is also useful for musicians who are dynamic and want to experiment differently. Thus, it could be a lifesaving device or tool for your guitar.

A capo is an easy-to-use and simple device. It works as a clamp for the strings of the guitar. The design of the capo allows the guitarists to raise the pitch. This is achieved when the nut of the guitar is put at a higher fret. A capo is likewise good for jamming in flat or sharp key signatures.

Also, if you are looking to transpose your song to a higher pitch, you need a capo. It is a great item for both electric and acoustic guitar. Experts recommend this device to every guitarist.

Today, you find a lot of capo products on the market. Whether you buy it in a physical store or online shop, you must buy a quality capo. Otherwise, you will waste your time and money. Read on!

Quick Picks

BEST OVERALL
Paige 6-String Standard Guitar Capo - Made in the USA,- Premium Capo for Acoustic and Standard Guitars, Ultra-Thin Design with Adjustable...
BEST BUDGET
Kyser Quick-Change Guitar Capo for 6-string acoustic guitars, Black, KG6BA
BEST ERGONOMIC
D'Addario Guitar Capo for Acoustic and Electric Guitar - NS Capo - Adjustable Tension - Guitar Accessories - Works for 6 String and 12 String...
Paige Original 6-String
Kyser 6-String Guitar Capo
Planet Waves NS Capo Pro
Excellent Intonation
Extremely Cheap
Micrometer adjustment
$40.00
$24.95
-
BEST OVERALL
Paige 6-String Standard Guitar Capo - Made in the USA,- Premium Capo for Acoustic and Standard Guitars, Ultra-Thin Design with Adjustable...
Paige Original 6-String
Excellent Intonation
$40.00
BEST BUDGET
Kyser Quick-Change Guitar Capo for 6-string acoustic guitars, Black, KG6BA
Kyser 6-String Guitar Capo
Extremely Cheap
$24.95
BEST ERGONOMIC
D'Addario Guitar Capo for Acoustic and Electric Guitar - NS Capo - Adjustable Tension - Guitar Accessories - Works for 6 String and 12 String...
Planet Waves NS Capo Pro
Micrometer adjustment
-

Top Capo Product Reviews

We are guitar lovers. We have done our research. We know how to choose tools for the guitar. Similarly, considering the array of aspects and factors, we have chosen the best capo products. We have tested them and now we are going to share with you the main features, pros, and cons of each selected capo.

#1 – Kyser 6-String Guitar Capo – Best Budget Capo for Guitarists

Kyser Quick-Change Guitar Capo for 6-string acoustic guitars, Black, KG6BA
  • The original one-handed Quick-Change guitar capo
  • Strong, lightweight aluminum with steel spring
  • Professional quality

Although you can find many best-quality capos online, Kyser is stylish, quality, simple, and affordable. It is an all-in-one capo package for those who are tight on budget. The cheapest capo you will never find on the market except for Kyser 6-String Capo.

Unlike elasticated wrap-around type, the Kyser 6-String Capo does a great job. Despite being called utilitarian by many guitarists, this is an incredible tool for many reasons. It is a screw-clamp type capo and highly adjustable.

It is made of lightweight aluminum material. The total weight of this clap is 45 grams. The capo is perfect for 6-string acoustic or electric guitar. The best thing about this product is its price and this is why Kyser is the best-budget product on our list of the best capo.

Also, every product has its downsides. When it comes to disadvantages, Kyser does have any level of assistance. It also does not have any spring assistance. Again, it is a screw-clamp type capo. Aesthetically, the manufacturer has not done a good job.

Pros

  • Extremely Cheap
  • Lightweight

Cons

  • No Spring Assistance

#2 – Guitto GGC-02 Revolver capo – Impressive Build Quality Capo

Giotto is another capo product on our list of the best capos. We have chosen this product based on various reasons such as it is a screw and spring-type campo with adjustable tension feature.

The weight of the product is 120 gram, which is double than the first product listed here. Unlike Kyser Capo, Guitto GGC-02 is made of zinc alloy material. It is a great guitar capo and suitable for ukulele, electric guitar, and 6-string acoustic guitar.

Also, it screw-adjustable and spring-loading clamp makes it an ideal product for guitarists to make their dream come true. It is made in China and offers useful extra such as a lot for holding a spare pick and the bridge pin puller, which can make string changes on the guitar quickly.

With its electro-plated zinc alloy, which has a vacuum-cast also makes this a good quality capo. If you are not an expert capo user, buying this product is good when it comes to considering the build quality, the price, and other features.

Pros

  • Pin Puller & Pick Slot
  • Revolver Styling
  • High-quality material

Cons

  • Impede playing due to big handles

#3 – Paige Original 6-String Acoustic Capo – Best wraparound capos

Paige 6-String Standard Guitar Capo - Made in the USA,- Premium Capo for Acoustic and Standard Guitars, Ultra-Thin Design with Adjustable...
  • UNIQUE CAPO DESIGN that provides no string buzz or muting due to pulling from the center of the guitar neck instead of...

Paige Original capo has a wraparound design with adjustable tension. Unlike the above models, Paige 6-String Acoustic Capo is made of metal and is suitable only for 6-string acoustic guitar. This capo does not work with an electric guitar.

A tension screw can sit in the middle of the neck and pull on the front arm of the capo with even pressure on the fretboard. The design of this capo is unique, which allows it to minimize sideways string pull. Thus, this is useful for steady and fine-tuning.

Although this model is not suitable for electric guitars, there is another version that goes by the same name. It has a thicker rubber, which allows for easy string bends. It is also useful for accommodating freeboard radiuses. Likewise, it is important to ensure measuring your guitar neck so that it fit the 2.62 inches width. This is an important step before buying.

Pros

  • Good intonation due to even pressure
  • High-quality metal material
  • Great for 6-string acoustic guitar
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Position shifts are not quick

#4 – Dunlop Trigger Capo – An ideal capo for acoustic guitar

Jim Dunlop Acoustic Guitar Bridge Pins (37084002001)
  • Ergonomic shape and padded handle make fret positioning easy
  • The strong spring action clamps it firmly in place
  • Available in five finishes

Dunlop Trigger Capo is a quick-release spring-clamp type capo with an adequate weight of only 63 grams. It is made of aluminum material of aircraft-grade and suitable for 6-string acoustic and electric guitar. Keep in mind that it has not adjustable tension. Dunlop Trigger Capo is easy-to-use, sturdy build quality, and affordable.

The spring-loaded and quick-release design is what makes this one of the best capos. Like the Ernie Ball Axis, the key can be changed easily by squeezing the Dunlop Trigger’s spring-loaded arms. So, the operation is quite simple.

On the other hand, this capo has a sturdy build, which is surely good for a steady intonation. So, many users say that there is no nothing to dislike about this product. Dunlop Trigger is a perfect capo with proven longevity. If you are looking for an ideal capo, this device can surely get the job done.

Pros

  • Sturdy Build Quality
  • Ease of use
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Single radius design

#5 – Planet Waves NS Capo Pro – Top Ergonomic Guitar Capo

D'Addario Guitar Capo for Acoustic and Electric Guitar - NS Capo - Adjustable Tension - Guitar Accessories - Works for 6 String and 12 String...
  • HIGH PERFORMANCE: Micrometer tension adjustment assures buzz-free in-tune performance at every fret. Apply the perfect...
  • DESIGNED FOR: Designed for 6 or 12 string acoustic and electric guitars with radiused fretboards
  • STRONG, DURABLE: Made of strong, durable aircraft grade aluminum construction

“Planet waves” is a screw and spring-clamp type capo with amazing adjustable tension. It is made of aircraft-grade aluminum material. The weight of the item is only 45 grams and is suitable for both 6-string and 12-string acoustic and electric guitar.

Due to slim-line and lightweight design, the Planet Waves NS Capo reduces the negative impact on the playing. The minimal mass of this product does not weigh the guitar’s neck down. Besides the capo, for easy fretting, the diminutive stature can be handy.

The Planet Waves NS Capo is designed specifically for guitars with radiused fretboards. So, in this regard, you might need another capo for other types of guitars such as the classical guitar as well as flatter-radiused instruments.   

Are you looking to buy the best capo without breaking the bank, then consider the Planet Waves NS Capo. It is a sturdy material, which means it can last for many years. The ergonomic design with minimal buzz is what makes many users go for this product.

Pros

  • Ergonomic design
  • Micrometer adjustment
  • Affordable Price

Cons

  • None

#6 – Ernie Ball Axis Capo – Best Single-Handed Operation Capo

Ernie Ball Axis Reversible 2-in-1 Capo - Black Satin
  • Quick, single-handed operation.
  • Simply flip the capo around to accommodate flat or curved fretboards.
  • Buzz-free clamping pressure for for both acoustic and electric guitars.

Ernie ball is another best capo available on the market. It is a quick-release and spring-clamp type capo made of lightweight aluminum material. We need to tell you that this capo has no adjustable tension, which can be considered a downside. It is an affordable capo suitable for both 6-string and 7-string acoustic and electric guitar.

The most interesting feature of this capo is its aesthetically well-designed style, which attracts many guitarists. The primary benefit of using this capo is its easy-to-use and one-handed operation. If you are looking to move the capo mid-song, you won’t have any problem using the Ernie Ball Capo.

Another appealing feature of this capo is the spring, which can deal with the tensioning. However, it is important to not bend the strings while processing. It is because the capo won’t come easier if you do this.

Having the Ernie Ball Capo, you won’t need to worry about the guitar’s fretboard and the curvature. There are two rubber-padded arms in this capo such as for flat fretboards and radiused. You can likewise flip the capo, you can suit the board. We like the ergonomics as well. The price is awesome – so, it is the best capo without a doubt.

Pros

  • Quick and single-handed operation
  • Excellent capo for 6 and 7-string guitars
  • Works well with flat and curved fretboards

Cons

  • The arms can get in the way

#7 – Thalia Capos 200 Series – Ideal Tuning & Intonation Capo

200 Series Thalia Capo Black Chrome Blue Abalone | Capo | ThaliaCapos.com
  • Thalia Capos are stunningly crafted and expertly designed with you, the musician, in mind.
  • Every Thalia guitar capo comes with a LIFETIME WARRANTY, 14 interchangeable fret pads to fit your instrument flawlessly,...
  • It’s perfect for classical guitars, 6-string guitars, acoustic guitars, electric guitars & banjos

Thalia Capos 200 Series is another premium capo on our list of best capos. It is a quick-release reverse fulcrum type capo made of die-cast zinc material. It has no adjustable tension. The capo is great for both 6-string acoustic and electric guitars.

Thalia Capos 200 Series is manufactured specifically for solving the tuning problems. It is achieved by matching the fret pads of the device to the fretboard radius of the guitar. So, this requires lower pressure on the strings.

This device comes with 14 tuning kits as well as pads for 7 radiuses in both high and standard tension forms. You can likewise tune the kit matching the fretboard radius of your guitar. Thalia Capo is the best capo and performs its functions adequately.

Pros

  • Awesome tuning
  • Excellent intonation
  • Beautifully designed
  • Custom styling options

Cons

  • Adjustable tension

Buying Guide

[Cover] Best Capo

The afternoon on the beach seems better when the songs are played with guitars that have capos. To make beautiful melodies, it is necessary to learn how to buy a version with quality material. When comparing capo offers on the market, always consider the following important factors. Continue reading!

Adjustment

Buy a product that has many different levels of micrometer adjustment. This way, there is a better chance that the product will fit your guitar perfectly. There are some productions with lower prices that have few adjustment levels, so you should buy them paying close attention to the diameters of the maximum and minimum dimensions.

Grip and Control

One of the secrets of the best capo is in the composition of the grip – i.e. the part that tightens the strings. The best grip composition is rubber. Maintains the pressure that generates tabbed musical tones.

However, if you want to save money, pay for the capo without rubber, only in this case there are more possibilities of tunings. When paying a higher price on the capo with tuner, it is recommended to choose a product that has control of the simple functions that must be accessed.

Support

A handful of musicians can build several different melodies to compose unique songs. Sometimes the touch occurs only with the fingers, at other times the use of a reed is essential.

To store and access the rod faster, experts recommend using a lid that has a rod holder. Therefore, in a few seconds, you can put on or take off the accessory, creating dynamism for artists. The metal capo fits very well with the guitar.

Design

You can take advantage of the wide variety of designs on the capo market and buy a version that best suits the aesthetic characteristics of your instrument. Black metals or plastic models are used on the dark-tone guitar, although you can also create more contrast by mixing white with darker tones. Anyway, use and abuse your creativity.

Budget

A capo can cost from $5 to $300. The lower-priced versions are made of plastic and have a spring system for fixing. Models with tuners with LCD screens have higher prices. The quality of the material influences the values. Models that have aluminum, light alloy, and metals are more expensive than plastic production. The wooden versions have mid-level prices.

Capo Type

Capo with screw is known for the fixed mechanism, ideal for keeping the guitar strings well fixed. Such a product should be used if you do not need to change the position of the accessory during songs. These pieces are made of plastic, wood, metal or other materials. You need to screw or unscrew to move the hood, which may take some time.

Holding capos have a kind of spring on the back to help the fixing movement, which happens as if it were a preacher nailed to the arm and tightening the strings. The lower-priced versions have plastic in the composition. Metal editions can cost higher prices. There are many variations of the clamping hood design.

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

What is a guitar capo?

Fixed tab, clamp, in short, several names serve to characterize the capo. This musical accessory can be used on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, etc. There are various forms of the capo. Some of them have springs, others have screws. It is possible to find this product in different colors and different finishes.

What is the basic purpose of capo?

Capo is a tool that changes the tones of the music, making the sounds of the notes generated on the instrument sharper. It is the best and most practical tool to enhance your creativity as a professional or amateur musician. However, to explore the maximum that a capo can offer, it is recommended to study music theory a bit.

How does the capo work?

You need to put the cover on one of the guitar (divided by frets) on the neck of the instrument, the method of how to install the changes depends on the type of version. Imagine that you installed your capo – i.e.  The one closest to the end of the guitar where the tuning part of the strings is.

What are the pros and cons of Capos?

Capo is a product that has positive and negative notes. It requires to know the pros or cons before choosing to buy the accessory. Positively, we have to highlight the ease of use of this product. Any teenager has no difficulty in making the adjustment simple.

Modern models stand out for their special finishes with metals, aluminum, zinc alloys, light alloy, rubber, wood or plastic. Some capo-frets are advanced to the point that they even have a tuner connected.

One downside is the need to carefully loosen and adjust every time you try to change the cheap capo. In general, the product is not expensive, but the professional editions have high prices.

Conclusion

Capos were very famous during the 1980s when hard rock and heavy metal bands continued to play on the radio. Today, these products are made with various technical details that value every note. The screw capo is widely used on guitars due to the resistance to staying fixed for a long time.

It is possible to find capos that even have an electronic tuner attached. You need to purchase a capo that fits perfectly with the neck size of your instrument. In this review article, we have reviewed the best products available on the market as well as give you the buying guide – which you can use to choose a perfect capo for your guitar. Good Luck!

Sources:

Peter Thomas

Peter is a well-known guitar teacher in Ealing. He’s taught hundreds of guitarists of all levels, covering everything from rock and pop to jazz and classical.Have a question, need some help, or want to give your opinion? Drop us a comment below!

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