A capo is a commonly used guitar accessory that you can use on acoustic & electric guitars.
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What does a capo do exactly?
A capo is a mechanical device that clamps onto your guitar’s neck. It is fastened against your guitar strings, shortening the length of the strings. The shorter strings result in a raised pitch.
Think of a capo as a moving guitar nut. Move it up the fretboard to create a higher pitch of open strings without adjusting the tuning pegs.
The types of capos
There are several types of capos available, but they all have the same underlying purpose. To increase the pitch of your open strings.
Here are the most popular types of capos with examples of the best capos of each style.
Strap capos
Strap capos attach around the guitar neck with an elastic strap, like a yoke. They are also referred to as Yoke style capos.
Strap capos are inexpensive, and they look pretty cool, but the elastic band can wear out quickly and may slip up or down the neck a bit. You need both hands to apply a strap capo.
Dunlop Elastic Heavy Single Capo
Great capo at a great price
Best Strap Capo
This capo costs just a few dollars, but will serve you well for years to come. It looks great as well!
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Toggle capos
Toggle capos are also yoke-style capos. They tighten around the neck with a latch that snaps into place. Like strap capos, they are small and inexpensive, but the locking of the latch can bring your strings out of tune.
Toggle capos are very comfortable when used, because they are flat. This means they don’t get in the way of your fretting fingers.
Again, you need to use both hands to put a toggle capo on your guitar’s neck.
Dunlop Advanced Toggle Capo
Lightweight, flat, and effective
Best Toggle Capo
This toggle capo is designed for both flat and curved fretboards, so you can use it on any guitar. They have a low profile, so they won’t get in the way of your finger when playing.
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Trigger capos
Trigger capos are also known as “quick-change capos” because you can move them around quickly with a single hand. You squeeze the clamp, which opens the capo, and place it on the guitar neck. These are the most popular types of capos, and you’ll see them being used at live concerts as well. Make sure you get a good quality one, though, as the rear clip can eat into the wood on the backside of your guitar’s neck if it’s not padded correctly.
Kyser Quick-Change Capo
Strong, light, professional
Most popular capo ever
The Kyser Capo is probably the most popular guitar capo there is. It is a one-handed trigger capo that will never fail on you. I’ve had one for at least 15 years now, and it is still like new. No wonder it has 7,000+ excellent reviews on Amazon.
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Spring capos
Spring capos work the same way as trigger capos do, except that they use a spring to apply the squeezing pressure.
Tanmus 3-in-1 Capo
Capo, pick holder, pin puller in 1
Amazing value!
The Tanmus spring capo is a smart multi-use tool that is available at a great price right now. It is a reliable capo, an acoustic guitar pin puller, and a pluck holder, all in one. Just like all of the capos I listed on this page, you can use it on any type of guitar.
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Screw capos
Screw capos have a screw that you tighten, which creates the squeezing pressure. Screw capos apply pressure evenly, but placing it on the neck and moving it around is not a quick process because of the screw.
Shubb C1 Screw Capo
No retuning necessary
Best Screw Capo
This screw capo is very dependable, and it provides even pressure on your guitar’s neck. The design is slightly curved, so it will fit pretty much any guitar. Screwing it in place takes a bit of time though.
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High-end capos
While designed for the same purpose of increasing the pitch of your strings, some manufacturers have created new capo designs to make your capo experience as good as possible.
Some are gold plated, some have advanced tension control, you get the idea.
Out of all of these new age capos, my favorite is definitely the G7th capo.
G7th Guitar Capo
Unique design and mechanics
Premium Capo
The G7th Performance Capo is an innovative tool that can be used on any type of guitar. The string pad can adapt to flat or curved guitar necks, which is awesome since all strings receive the same amount of pressure. It is very easy to use and is low profile, so it doesn’t get in the way.
If you’re feeling extra posh, get the gold-plated version for a few dollars more.
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Acoustic guitar capos vs electric guitar capos. What’s the difference?
Capo manufacturers have developed different capos for different types of guitars. You can find capos designed for acoustic guitars, electric guitars, flat fretboards, curved fretboards, nylon strings, steel strings, etc.
Can you use the same capo on different types of guitars?
Yes, many capos are designed for use on all types of guitars. In fact, I have only used such interchangeable capos during my 20+ years of playing. I have never felt the need for a specialized capo.
Get a good quality capo like the G7th, Shubb, or the Kyser, and you’ll be able to use them on acoustic and electric guitars.
How much should you pay for a capo?
Capos are some of the most inexpensive guitar accessories.
Strap capos can cost as little as $5, but even the Kyser quick-change capo is under $20.
Some never capo designs from small manufacturers sell for $50-$70. Are they worth it? Well, they fulfill the exact same purpose, so it’s up to you.
The innovative technology used by the G7th Performance 3 is worth it in my opinion.
I hope you were able to choose a capo suitable for your needs. The above listed capos are dependable and will not damage your guitar if used correctly.
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