If you’ve never used a capo before, you may not know what to look for. This guide to the best acoustic guitar capos will help you pick something for your own instrument.
I use a capo all the time. It allows me to get my voice in the right key with the chords I want to play. This is an accessory that you should have in your acoustic guitar case or gig bag.
Quick Look: Best Acoustic Guitar Capos
★ #1 Best Acoustic Guitar Capo Overall: Kyser Quick ★
- Best Cheap Acoustic Guitar Capo: Dunlop 11F
- Best Acoustic Guitar Capo for Beginners: Kyser Quick Change
- Best Pro Acoustic Guitar Capo: Shubb S1
- Best Unique Acoustic Guitar Capo: G7th Performance
- Best Acoustic Guitar Capos for Blues/Rock/Metal: D’Addario Tri
In this guide, we’ll look at several different acoustic guitar capos and pick out the best ones for your needs. These products make excellent selections for anyone looking for an acoustic guitar capo.
What Is an Acoustic Guitar Capo?
You may be wondering what an acoustic guitar capo is. This is a small device that goes over the top of your strings. You place it on the fretboard at the location that you want.
It’s designed to change the key that you’re playing in. It makes it easy to get your guitar in the range for your own voice. Without using one, it might be difficult for you to sing in standard tuning.
This device is also great for changing the sound of your guitar. A capo placed higher up the neck tends to have a jangly or mandolin-like sound, so you’ll have a different sounding instrument.
Types of Acoustic Guitar Capos
There are several different types of acoustic guitar capos that you need to be aware of. Here is what you need to know before you purchase.
Clamp/Spring Capo
The most common type of capo is the clamp or spring style. This features a lever that you squeeze, and then you place the capo over the acoustic guitar strings. The tension from the lever keeps the guitar in tune, and it’s easy to change keys.
Strap Capo
This type of capo has a strap to wrap around the guitar neck. There is a toggle that you pull to get the capo tight on the neck. It’s not as easy to change keys quickly with this type as it is with the spring or clamp type.
Screw Capo
This type of cope has a screw mechanism that you tighten down to hold the capo in place. It takes time to put one of these on and remove it, so it’s not the quickest method.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar Capo
There are a few things that you should keep in mind before purchasing a capo. Here is what you need to know.
Size
These devices are basically the same size. There are a few that are a little bit smaller, as they’re partial capos that only go over a few strings. For the most part, they have the same basic size that fits over the fretboard.
Type
You have to decide on the type of capo that you want. In general, the trigger capo is easier to use because you can move it to any fret that you want quickly. You get more tuning stability with the screw capo, but it’s not as movable.
Price
You don’t have to worry that much about the price of a capo. You can get a basic capo between $10 and $20. If you want one that’s a little more elaborate, you may have to pay anywhere between $30 to $50.
Material
You should buy a capo that’s made from decent materials. This includes solid plastic, steel, aluminum, and so on. Make sure that it has padding so it can protect the fretboard of your guitar. Try to avoid cheaply-made capos.
10 Best Acoustic Guitar Capos
Here is what I consider to be the best acoustic guitar capos. You may have something that is not on this list that you like, and that’s fine.
These are only my personal choices when it comes to this product.
1. Kyser Quick Change
- Type: Clamp (quick change)
- Material: Aluminum, steel
- Color: Black
- Best for: Those that want an easy to use capo
For those looking for a simple-to-use capo, the Kyser Quick-Change is an excellent choice. It’s simple to clamp onto your acoustic fretboard and place it in the position that you want.
✅ Easy to use
✅ Good intonation
✅ Solid material
✅ Good price
❌ It may cause some tuning issues
❌ It may cause buzzing with lower action
Why I Recommend It
I am a big fan of the Kyser Quick Change capo. I have several of these in my guitar cases. I use them both for my acoustic and electric guitars. They’re easy to put on the guitar and change the key whenever you want.
I use this device all the time when I want to sing. They’re made out of solid materials, and I haven’t had one break on me yet. This is the ideal choice for any guitar player looking for an easy-to-use capo.
2. D’Addario Tri-Action Capo
- Type: Screw
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Color: Black
- Best for: Those that want a capo with adjustments
The D’Addario Tri-Action Capo features an adjustment knob so you can get the right amount of tension for the guitar neck. It’s made from high-grade aircraft aluminum and even comes with a pick holder. This is a great choice for any acoustic guitarist.
✅ Adjustment knob
✅ Solid construction
✅ Integrated pick holder
✅ Easy to use
❌ Rubber pad could be better
❌ Requires adjustment
Why I Recommend It
The D’Addario Tri-Action capo is an excellent capo for those that want more control over the adjustment on their guitar neck. It’s easy to use and comes in at a reasonable price.
I like the fact that this capo comes with an integrated pick holder. You’ll always have access to additional picks when you use it. The capo is made with high-grade materials, so it’s going to last you a long time.
3. Shubb S1 Capo
- Type: Screw
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Silver
- Best for: Those that want a professional screw capo
Shubb makes excellent capos. The Shubb S1 Capo comes in at a great price, and it’s made from stainless steel, so it’s going to last you night after night. It’s easy to put on and then use the adjustment screw to get the right amount of tension.
✅ Solid construction
✅ Good price
✅ Rubber protection pad
✅ Good intonation
❌ Take more time to change keys
❌ The screw knob can get loose
Why I Recommend It
Shubb makes a good capo. This one is made with a solid construction, so you shouldn’t have a problem with it. The rubber support pad won’t scratch the surface of your guitar neck.
This capo is easy to put on, and you can use the tension screw to get the right amount of tension for the guitar neck. This is an excellent system for anyone that likes the screw style capo.
4. G7th Performance Capo
- Type: Clamp
- Material: Stainless steel
- Color: Silver
- Best for: Those that want a unique clamp capo
G7th offers a unique capo that matches the curvature of your fretboard. Place G7th Performance Capo on the strings, and it’s ready to go. There is no lever or cumbersome screws to get in the way.
✅ Unique design
✅ Solid construction
✅ Good tension
✅ Versatile
❌ Expensive
❌ May be some buzzing
Why I Recommend It
The G7th capo is a unique new type of capo. With the adaptive radius technology, it molds itself to your fretboard without the need for screws, clamps, or other devices. Place it on, and you’re ready to play.
You’ll end up spending quite a lot on this capo, but I think it’s worth it. This capo gives the right amount of tension for your individual guitar. It works for both your acoustic guitars as well as your electric guitars.
5. D’Addario Pro Capo
- Type: Screw
- Material: Aircraft-grade aluminum
- Color: Black
- Best for: Those that want a solid screw-style capo
The D’Addario Pro Capo features solid construction, and it’s easy to place on the fretboard. Turn the screw to get the right amount of tension. You’ll be ready to play any song with this capo.
✅ Solid construction
✅ Easy operation
✅ Low cost
✅ Tension adjustment
❌ Screw can come loose
❌ Not that easy to change keys
Why I Recommend It
D’Addario makes excellent accessories, including this capo. I like the solid construction of this one, as it’s built to last. It’s simple to place it on your fretboard wherever you want it.
Use the screw to get the right amount of tension on your guitar fretboard. It will stay in place and won’t move around. The strings won’t buzz, and you’ll stay in tune.
6. Dunlop 11F Toggle Capo
- Type: Toggle
- Material: Nylon/steel
- Color: Black/silver
- Best for: Those that want a solid toggle-style capo
For those that want to use a toggle-style capo, try the Dunlop 11F Toggle. It will stay in place once you place it on the fretboard. You’ll have accurate tuning and will be able to play in the key you want.
✅ Low cost
✅ Toggle to close
✅ Solid construction
✅ Won’t scratch the guitar
❌ Not ideal for beginners
❌ Hard to change keys
Why I Recommend It
I don’t use toggle capos all that often, but this one by Jim Dunlop is a solid product. It’s made with quality materials and will stay on your fretboard once you place it there.
It’s easy to set up and toggle, and once it’s on, you don’t have to worry about it falling off. It’s ideal for someone that always plays in the same key. I also like the fact that this one doesn’t cost all that much.
7. Paige 6-String Capo
- Type: Screw
- Material: Steel
- Color: Silver
- Best for: Those that want a solid and reliable screw capo
Sometimes, it’s better to spend a little bit more on a capo. The Paige 6-String Capo is well-built from solid materials. It’s easy to apply to your fretboard. Use the screw toggle to get the right amount of tension.
✅ Solid construction
✅ Good intonation
✅ Easy to apply
✅ Stays in place
❌ Screw can get loose
❌ High price
Why I Recommend It
I like this capo due to the solid construction. It has a nice pad to protect your delicate guitar fretboard. There is a screw you use to get the right amount of tension for your guitar.
You’ll have stable and accurate tuning when you use this capo. It doesn’t adjust as easily to different positions as other products, but it stays in place, so it’s reliable once you place it in the fret location you want.
8. Donner DC-2 Capo
- Type: Trigger
- Material: Steel
- Color: Black
- Best for: Beginners on a budget
For those looking for cheap capos for acoustic guitars, try the Donner DC-2. This is an easy-to-use trigger-style capo. Beginners won’t have a problem putting this one on the fretboard, and they’ll be ready to play right away.
✅ Easy to use
✅ Solid construction
✅ Low price
✅ Fits other guitars
❌ Not as well-built as some
❌ May have some buzzing issues
Why I Recommend It
The Donner DC-2 is a capo designed for beginners. You won’t spend a whole lot of money on this one, but it’s reliable and will get you quickly into the key that you want.
I like that there are no screws or other cumbersome parts of the capo to worry about. As you get better at using it, you can always switch to one of those if you prefer.
9. Shubb Capo for Nylon Strings
- Type: Screw
- Material: Steel
- Color: Silver/black
- Best for: Those with a nylon string guitar
If you have a nylon string acoustic guitar, you’ll need a solid and dependable capo. The Shubb Nylon String Capo is the perfect choice for your nylon-string instrument. It’s easy to apply and well-built, so it will last.
✅ Perfect for nylon strings
✅ Solid construction
✅ Tension adjustment
✅ Protection pad
Why I Recommend It
I think that Shubb makes one of the better capos for acoustic guitars. They’re well designed with high-quality materials. There’s a nice protection pad on this one for your delicate nylon-string instrument fretboard.
It’s easy to apply and set up on your fretboard, so you’ll be in the right key for the song you’re playing. It’s a little bit harder to change keys with this one, but it gives you the good intonation that you want for the music.
10. GuitarX X2 Capo
- Type: Trigger
- Material: Steel
- Color: Black
- Best for: Those looking for a dependable trigger capo
GuitarX makes a simple and dependable capo for your acoustic guitar. The GuitarX X2 Capo has an easy to use trigger design. Squeeze the trigger and place the capo on your instrument, and you’re ready to play any song.
✅ Solid construction
✅ Good spring
✅ Easy to use
✅ Low cost
❌ May have some buzzing issues
❌ Not that easy to change keys
Why I Recommend It
Guitarx Is a new company making high-quality accessories for your guitar. I like this one because it’s well-designed, easy-to-use, and perfect for beginners. This one comes in at a low price.
It has a decent spring so that it will stabilize the tuning. There is a protective pad on it, so it won’t scratch the surface of your instrument’s fretboard.
Best Acoustic Guitar Capo Brands
Several different companies make acoustic guitar capos. Here are some of the better brands that you might want to purchase your capo from.
I’ve used many of these brands before.
Kyser
Kyser makes one of the most recognized capos in the music industry. I’ve been a big fan of this company for a long time. I use it for both my acoustic and electric guitars.
D’Addario
This company makes a wide range of music accessories, including the capo. They have several different styles to meet your needs.
Shubb
This company makes high-end capos for acoustic guitars as well as other instruments. They have several different types for you to choose from. They do tend to be a little bit more expensive but of a higher quality.
G7th
This company makes higher-end capos that use clutch technology. All you do is place the product on your acoustic guitar’s fretboard, and it matches the curvature of the guitar neck. This is a unique capo accessory.
Acoustic Guitar Capo Aesthetics & Build
You need to know a few things about the build of a capo before you purchase one. You want to ensure that you have one made out of high-quality materials.
Material
Most of these accessories are made out of aluminum and steel. This is to ensure that it has a proper fit on your instrument’s fretboard. Some of them are made from high-impact plastic, but most are made from some type of metal.
Finish
All capos feature a smooth finish. They’re easy to put on and take off of the guitar. You want to ensure that yours has a rubber pad or other type of pad that won’t scratch the delicate surface of your guitar’s fretboard and neck.
Color
The typical colors for a guitar capo are black, wood grain, or silver. You can get a few other colors, but these are the main colors they come in.
Type
You’ll have to try several different capo types before you find one that meets your needs. Some people prefer the clamp style, while others prefer ones that use a screw.
Acoustic Guitar Capo Brands to Avoid
Try to avoid no-name capo products. These tend to be the cheaper brands that you get in an acoustic guitar package. They could put your instrument out of tune. Make sure you use a brand name for the best results.
Frequently Asked Questions:
You may have several questions when it comes to capos. Here is a list of frequently asked questions that people ask about acoustic guitar capos.
Do I Really Need a Capo?
You’ll have to decide whether or not you want to use a capo. They’re excellent devices you use to change the key. It puts your voice into the proper range by using regular position chords.
You don’t necessarily have to use a capo, but they can be helpful, especially if you plan to sing. They can also help you get different sounds out of your instrument.
Why Do My Strings Buzz with a Capo?
You may not have your capo placed properly on the fretboard if you get buzzing. It shouldn’t be too close to the fret. If you have extremely low action, then the strings may buzz. Try higher gauge strings if you still have some buzzing.
How Much Do Acoustic Guitar Capos Cost?
You won’t have to spend all that much on a capo. A basic one will cost you between $7 and $15. Ones that have a better design cost from $25 to $50. You’ll find a capo for your needs no matter your budget.
What Are the Best Acoustic Guitar Capos?
Here is my list of the best acoustic guitar capos. These three choices should help you through most playing situations. I’ve tried to pick three different ones to meet all of your needs.
Kyser Quick-Change: Best for Most Applications
I have the Kyser Quick-Change Capo inside my guitar case. I like this one because it’s easy to put on and easy to take off again. You don’t have to fiddle with any toggle knobs or adjustment screws.
Shubb S1: Best for Those That Want a Screw Style Capo
If you’re more of a fan of the screw style capo, I suggest the Shubb S1. This is a high-quality product that’s made from good materials. It’s easy to put on and keeps your instrument’s tuning stable.
G7th Performance: Best for Advanced Players
The G7th Performance is unique because there’s no screw or toggle on this one. You apply it to the fretboard, and it molds to the fretboard’s circumference for a tight and reliable fit. This is an excellent product for today’s players.
Where Are the Best Acoustic Guitar Capos Made?
Most of these devices are made in the United States, where the major manufacturers are. Companies such as Dunlop, Shubb, Kyser, and so on make the best capos.
Where to Buy Acoustic Guitar Capos
If you want to pick up a capo for your acoustic guitar, there are several places that you may consider buying one from. Here are your major options when purchasing this type of product.
Amazon
I prefer to buy my capos from Amazon. They have a wide selection of products available to you. They have great customer service, fast shipping, and you can read reviews before ordering.
Online Music Retailers
Two other excellent online locations are Sweetwater and Guitar Center. Both of them have great product selections. They have customer service that you can rely on, fast shipping times, and are reliable.
Your Local Music Store
You can also visit your local music store to pick up a capo. Please keep in mind that your store may not have every option available to you, so it can be somewhat limited. On the plus side, you won’t have to wait for shipping.
Review This Post
Table of Contents
- Acoustic Guitar Accessories
- What Is an Acoustic Guitar Capo?
- Types of Acoustic Guitar Capos
- Things to Consider When Choosing an Acoustic Guitar Capo
- 10 Best Acoustic Guitar Capos
- Best Acoustic Guitar Capo Brands
- Acoustic Guitar Capo Aesthetics & Build
- Acoustic Guitar Capo Brands to Avoid
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- In Conclusion
In Conclusion
Thank you for reading this guide to the best acoustic guitar capos. I don’t know where I would be without this device because it puts my voice into a range where I can sing properly.
Please share, like, or leave a comment. I look forward to hearing from you anytime. Now, go pick up your acoustic guitar, put a capo on it, and write the next hit song.
