Welcome to guitarplayers.net, your go-to resource for all things guitar! In this feature, we’re diving deep into the world of guitar capos. We’ve put a wide range of capos to the test, from budget-friendly options to high-end models, to bring you the definitive guide to finding the Good Capo For Guitar that perfectly suits your needs.
Collection of various guitar capos being reviewed for finding the best capo for guitar players, showcasing different types and brands.
Capos are indispensable tools for the modern guitarist. Forget the outdated notion that capos are for less skilled players. Today, capos are celebrated for their versatility and the creative possibilities they unlock. They are a fantastic way to simplify chord progressions, explore different voicings, and even change the key of a song on the fly.
In fact, a capo is one of the essential guitar accessories we recommend for all aspiring guitarists. A good capo for guitar can make learning easier, inject more fun into your practice sessions, and open up a world of musical creativity. Many beautiful fingerpicking arrangements and intricate guitar pieces rely on the use of a capo, as many of you know, especially if you’ve explored fingerstyle guitar.
Students frequently ask for recommendations on which capo to buy. To provide the best advice, we’ve spent the last month rigorously testing a diverse collection of capos. We’ve evaluated popular models, premium options, and budget-friendly capos that have garnered positive reviews online. Our aim is to help you discover the ideal good capo for guitar within this comprehensive round-up, no matter your budget, playing style, or personal preferences. From the ten capos we reviewed, we are confident there’s a perfect match for everyone.
Our Testing Methodology for Guitar Capos
To ensure a thorough and unbiased assessment, we tested each guitar capo across four different guitars (more details on the guitars below). Each capo underwent a detailed evaluation based on the following criteria:
Features
Capos come in various designs, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. This section will highlight the type of capo being reviewed and any noteworthy features that set it apart. Understanding the features is key to selecting a good capo for guitar that aligns with your playing style.
Tuning Stability
One of the most common frustrations when using a capo is its potential to throw your guitar out of tune. This often occurs when a capo applies excessive pressure, causing the strings to stretch and go sharp. You might have experienced that unsettling feeling after applying a capo, where something just doesn’t sound quite right. Often, it’s due to tuning issues introduced by the capo. While retuning with the capo in place is an option, a good capo for guitar should minimize this need.
For this review, we meticulously examined the tuning accuracy of each capo. Using a tuner, we checked the intonation at frets 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 to assess how well each capo maintained the guitar’s tuning across the fretboard.
Ease of Use
The ease of use of a capo is crucial for smooth and efficient playing, especially during live performances or quick key changes. Some capos can be cumbersome to attach, remove, or reposition. To assess usability, we performed a ‘one-handed test’ for each capo, simulating quick adjustments during a performance. A good capo for guitar should be intuitive and easy to operate, allowing for swift changes without disrupting your playing flow.
Build Quality
Durability is a critical factor, as a capo should withstand regular use and last for years. A good capo for guitar needs to be robust and sturdy, ready to endure the rigors of frequent use, transport, and even the occasional accidental drop. There’s little value in a capo that performs well initially but quickly deteriorates. We evaluated the construction and materials of each capo to determine its long-term reliability.
Value for Money
The price range for capos varies significantly, from budget-friendly to premium options. Some capos in this review are significantly more expensive than others, with prices ranging from the high-end Thalia 200 ($79.99) to the budget Donner DC-2 ($8.49). Most capos fall within the $10-$30 range. We’ve included links to the U.S. Amazon listings and manufacturer websites where available (note that some may not be available on Amazon in the U.S. or have dedicated websites). We assessed whether each capo offers good value for its price, balancing performance, features, and durability. A good capo for guitar offers the best balance of quality and affordability.
Rating System
To provide a clear and concise summary of our findings, we rated each capo out of 5 using ‘G’s (for ‘guitar’) instead of stars. Here’s what our rating system signifies:
GGGGG Awesome!
GGGG Very good but not quite perfect!
GGG Good but with faults!
GG A little shoddy!
G Oh oh, this is pretty poor!
Capo Review Results: Finding the Best Acoustic Guitar Capo
Here are our reviews of each capo, presented in the random order we picked them from the box:
Shubb S1
Features
The Shubb S1 is constructed from stainless steel and features an adjustable screw mechanism. This design allows for precise control over the tension applied to the strings, aiming for optimal tuning accuracy at any fret. The S1 is designed to fit most acoustic and electric guitars, and Shubb offers other models specifically for classical and 12-string guitars. This adjustable feature is a hallmark of a good capo for guitar, offering customized pressure for different guitars and playing styles.
Tuning
Across all four test guitars, the Shubb S1 demonstrated excellent tuning and intonation across various frets. The adjustable screw allows for fine-tuning the tension to achieve precise tuning. Small adjustments to the screw while the capo is in position are usually sufficient to optimize tuning. Unless you make drastic changes in fret position, the Shubb S1 maintains accuracy along the neck.
Ease of Use
While not the most straightforward capo to use initially, the Shubb S1 becomes easier with practice. It’s slightly more intricate than some other capos, but with a little familiarity, one-handed placement becomes achievable. Adjusting the intonation with the screw is simple and intuitive.
Build Quality
Our test model was the deluxe stainless steel version, offering enhanced resistance to scratches and nicks compared to the standard brass and nickel-plated model. Shubb capos are manufactured and assembled in the USA, and the craftsmanship is evident. The S1 feels like a well-made, durable piece of equipment. This robust construction contributes to making it a good capo for guitar in terms of longevity.
Value For Money
While it may require a slight learning curve in terms of ease of use and adjustment for optimal tuning on different guitars, the Shubb S1 offers excellent value. Its combination of affordability, high quality construction, and tuning accuracy makes it a worthwhile investment.
What it might lack slightly in immediate convenience, it more than compensates for in overall value and performance. It’s a great all-around capo to have.
Rating
GGGGG
Get it!
Adagio Pro Deluxe
Image of the Adagio Pro Deluxe capo, a budget spring-loaded capo with a peg-puller feature.
Features
The Adagio Pro Deluxe is a budget-friendly, spring-loaded capo, a common design in the market. A unique, and somewhat quirky, feature is an inlay designed to act as a peg puller for acoustic guitars when changing strings. This multi-functionality is an interesting attempt to add value to a budget capo.
Tuning
Unfortunately, the Adagio Pro Deluxe suffers from significant tuning problems. It consistently causes notes to sound sharp, and achieving accurate tuning requires very precise placement to avoid string buzz and diminished sustain. The tuning instability is a major drawback for anyone seeking a good capo for guitar that maintains accurate pitch.
Ease of Use
Like most spring-loaded capos, the Adagio Pro Deluxe is inherently easy to use. However, the narrow gap between the clamp and arm can be problematic. Unless fully opened with significant pressure, it’s easy to catch strings during placement, potentially bending them and exacerbating tuning issues.
Build Quality
Despite its tuning shortcomings, the Adagio Pro Deluxe feels surprisingly solid and durable. It appears to be built to last, which is a positive aspect considering its budget price point.
Value For Money
Despite its affordability and solid build, the Adagio Pro Deluxe’s severe tuning problems make it a poor value.
No matter how aesthetically pleasing, feature-rich, or easy to use a capo is, its primary function is to maintain tuning. The Adagio Pro Deluxe’s poor tuning performance overshadows any other potential benefits, making it a capo to avoid.
Rating
GG
Don’t Get it!
- Amazon
- Manufacturer: No website available
G7th Performance 2
Features
The G7th Performance 2 stands out from many capos with its non-spring-loaded design. It utilizes G7th’s unique “Tension Control System,” allowing the player to precisely control the pressure applied to the guitar neck. This innovative system is a key differentiator and a feature that contributes to making it a good capo for guitar focused on tuning precision.
Tuning
The tension control system is the standout feature for tuning. By manually squeezing the capo to apply pressure, rather than relying on a fixed spring tension, tuning issues are largely eliminated. This adjustability is a significant advantage over non-adjustable spring capos. If slight tuning discrepancies occur, a simple squeeze or release adjusts the tension for perfect pitch.
Ease of Use
The G7th Performance 2 excels in ease of use. Minimal adjustments are typically needed to achieve precise tuning. Simply place it on the strings and squeeze until it feels right – the process is intuitive and quick. It passes the one-handed test with ease, becoming second nature after a few uses.
Build Quality
The build quality is exceptional. The Performance 2 feels compact, robust, and durable. It can withstand drops and regular use without concern for damage. This robust build contributes to its status as a good capo for guitar built to last.
Value For Money
While a more significant investment than budget capos, the Performance 2 represents excellent value. Its ease of use, perfect tuning, and robust construction make it a worthwhile purchase.
The G7th Performance 2 is incredibly user-friendly, truly one-handed operation, tunes flawlessly, and is built to withstand heavy use while maintaining a sleek and stylish aesthetic for a functional tool.
Rating
GGGGG
Get it!
Dellwing
Image of the Dellwing capo, a budget-friendly spring-loaded capo known for its robust build.
Features
The Dellwing is another budget-oriented, spring-loaded capo. It’s notably large and heavy for its type, though the reason for the substantial weight isn’t immediately clear. It is a basic, no-frills spring capo, focusing on functionality over advanced features.
Tuning
Surprisingly, for a budget spring capo, the Dellwing performs well in terms of tuning accuracy. On three out of four test guitars, it maintained accurate tuning across the tested frets. The Aria guitar was an exception, exhibiting slight sharpness on most frets. This better-than-expected tuning performance is a positive aspect of the Dellwing.
Ease of Use
The Dellwing is generally easy to use. However, its large size and widely spaced clamps can pose a minor ergonomic challenge, particularly for users with smaller hands. Squeezing the clamps together comfortably may require precise hand positioning, and some users might need to use a second hand for optimal placement.
Build Quality
The Dellwing is built like a tank, feeling exceptionally solid and durable. It’s likely to withstand significant wear and tear. While its aesthetic is not premium, it prioritizes functionality and longevity. Its robust build is a key strength, making it a good capo for guitar for players who need a durable and reliable option.
Value For Money
The Dellwing offers good value for its price. Its surprising tuning accuracy for a spring capo, combined with its robust build, makes it a practical choice.
For a spring-loaded capo, the Dellwing is accurate, easy to use (with minor ergonomic considerations), and performs well across various frets without requiring excessive hand strength.
Rating
GGGG
Get it!
- Amazon
- Manufacturer: No website available
G7th UltraLight
Image of the G7th UltraLight capo, a lightweight screw-style capo designed for budget-conscious players.
Features
The G7th UltraLight is a screw-style capo positioned as a budget-friendly option from G7th. It aims to provide good tuning stability and sustain while remaining affordable. True to its name, it is exceptionally light, weighing only 8 grams. This lightweight design is a key feature, targeting players who prioritize minimal added weight on the guitar neck.
Tuning
As a screw-based capo, the UltraLight offers user-controlled tension, leading to accurate tuning across all four test guitars. However, achieving optimal tuning required more attention and adjustment than some other screw capos in the review. Using a tuner and carefully tweaking the tension is necessary to get the tuning precisely right.
Ease of Use
Like most screw-type capos, the UltraLight is not as quick or convenient to use as spring capos. One-handed placement is not easily achievable. However, removing the capo with one hand is simple, and repositioning it along the fretboard is straightforward once applied. A minor drawback is the screw, which can detach completely if unscrewed too much, requiring reassembly.
Build Quality
While reasonably well-made, the UltraLight’s lightweight construction makes it feel somewhat delicate. It might not withstand heavy abuse, although it is more durable than its initial flimsy feel suggests. Twisting and flexing revealed a surprising degree of resilience, but the overall impression is less robust than other capos.
Value For Money
The UltraLight is an affordable option that delivers accurate tuning and surprising durability for its lightweight build. However, its ease of use and slightly flimsy feel are drawbacks compared to alternatives.
For budget-conscious players seeking a G7th capo, the UltraLight is an option, but considering the slightly superior Performance 2 might be worthwhile for a better overall experience if budget allows.
Rating
GGG
Get it! (with reservations)
Donner DC-2
Image of the Donner DC-2 capo, a budget spring-loaded capo with a quaver symbol.
Features
The Donner DC-2 is another spring-loaded capo, advertised with a spring that possesses “internal memory for strength and fatigue resistance.” Aesthetically, it features a quaver symbol, which might be considered somewhat cheesy by some. It is a standard spring capo aiming for functionality at a very low price point.
Tuning
The Donner DC-2, unfortunately, exhibits significant tuning problems common to many unadjustable spring capos, but to an even greater extent. Out of the four test guitars, it only tuned accurately on the Aria. On the other guitars, it consistently produced sharp notes across all frets. Sustain also noticeably diminishes at higher frets when using this capo.
Ease of Use
As a spring-loaded capo, the DC-2 is inherently easy to use. One-handed operation is effortless, and the spring tension is not excessively tight. However, care is needed when placing it, especially on guitars with thicker necks, to avoid catching strings, which can worsen tuning problems.
Build Quality
The build quality is surprisingly solid for a budget capo. It feels robust and unlikely to break easily, prioritizing durability over refined features.
Value For Money
Despite numerous positive Amazon reviews, the Donner DC-2 offers poor value due to its significant tuning issues.
While very affordable and seemingly well-built, the DC-2’s fundamental flaw in tuning accuracy renders it essentially unusable for players who prioritize proper intonation. The positive Amazon reviews are perplexing, as tuning issues are a major detriment to a capo’s functionality.
Rating
G
Don’t Get it!
Shubb F1
Features
The Shubb F1 is one of the most premium capos in this review, featuring a classic yoke-style design intended to be left on the guitar even when not in use. When not needed, it can be moved beyond the nut and lightly tightened to remain readily available. This unique “store on the guitar” feature is a key differentiator and a practical advantage for players who frequently use a capo.
Tuning
The tuning performance of the Shubb F1 is exceptional. The adjustable screw mechanism provides complete control over tension, allowing for precise tuning adjustments on any guitar. The yoke design applies pressure evenly across the neck’s center, minimizing uneven pressure often found in arm-style capos, contributing to superior tuning stability.
Ease of Use
The F1 is very user-friendly, featuring a smoothly operating screw adjustment knob for increasing or decreasing tension. The only minor challenge encountered was on the Cort guitar, which has a higher action and thicker neck. At higher frets on this guitar, significant tightening was needed to clamp strings effectively. For guitars with very wide necks, Shubb offers the F3 model specifically designed for wider necks.
Build Quality
The Shubb F1 is exceptionally well-built and crafted to last. Its precision engineering and high-quality materials give it a premium feel, almost like a piece of jewelry. It stands in stark contrast to budget capos in terms of both look and feel, reflecting superior craftsmanship.
Value For Money
Despite its higher price, the Shubb F1 offers excellent value. Its exceptional build quality, ease of use, superior tuning accuracy, and unique “store on guitar” design justify the investment.
The Shubb F1 is a fantastic capo that combines classic aesthetics with modern performance. It is a worthwhile upgrade for any guitarist seeking a top-tier capo that is both functional and beautiful.
Rating
GGGGG
Get it!
- Amazon: Currently unavailable on Amazon
- Manufacturer
Thalia 200
Image of the Thalia 200 capo, a unique capo with interchangeable fretpads for radius matching.
Features
The Thalia 200 is a uniquely designed capo that includes 7 interchangeable fretpads. These fretpads are designed to match the fretboard radius of your guitar, a feature not found on other capos. The interchangeable fretpads are intended to eliminate tuning problems caused by mismatched capo radius and fretboard radius, making it a good capo for guitar seeking optimal tuning.
Tuning
Initial testing with the standard fretpad revealed the need for adjustment to achieve optimal tuning accuracy across all four test guitars. However, once the correct fretpad was selected and installed (based on guitar radius), tuning accuracy became near-perfect across the fretboard on each guitar. The radius-matching system effectively addresses potential tuning issues.
Ease of Use
The Thalia 200 is user-friendly, with a quick start guide provided for initial setup. Moving the capo along the neck is smooth and easy, and one-handed operation is readily achievable. Changing fretpads is a quick process, taking only seconds, which is beneficial for players using multiple guitars with different radii.
Build Quality
The Thalia 200 exhibits exceptional build quality and craftsmanship. It feels like a premium, meticulously crafted instrument accessory. The Santos rosewood inlay on our test model is aesthetically pleasing, and other available designs are equally striking. The high-quality construction and aesthetic design contribute to its premium status as a good capo for guitar.
Value For Money
The Thalia 200, while one of the more expensive capos, offers excellent value for professional-level performance. Its unique fretpad system, combined with ease of use and superior build quality, make it a worthwhile investment.
The Thalia 200 is a top-tier capo that offers unmatched tuning precision, flexibility for various guitars, and a touch of personalized style. It’s a classy investment for serious guitarists.
Rating
GGGGG
Get it!
D’Addario/Planet Waves NS
Features
The D’Addario/Planet Waves NS Capo is a long-standing and reliable design. It’s a simple, screw-adjustable capo with a minimalist jet black finish. Its straightforward design prioritizes functionality and reliability. Its longevity and consistent performance make it a trusted choice for a good capo for guitar.
Tuning
The NS Capo has consistently provided good tuning performance over years of use. In our standardized tests, it again performed well. However, it requires a firm squeeze, as the side opposite the screw can exhibit slightly less clamping force compared to the screw side.
Ease of Use
Screw-style capos are generally not as quick to use as spring capos, but they often offer superior tuning stability. The NS Capo is reasonably easy to use, and one-handed operation is possible with some practice, although clamping at higher frets might require assistance from the picking hand.
Build Quality
The NS Capo is solidly built, prioritizing durability over elaborate design. It has proven its longevity over years of use and feels unlikely to break under normal conditions. Constructed from molded ABS thermoplastic, it’s designed for robustness and minimal maintenance.
Value For Money
The D’Addario/Planet Waves NS Capo is an excellent value, particularly as a backup capo or a reliable first capo.
The NS Capo is a dependable, no-frills capo that offers consistent performance at a very reasonable price. It’s a must-have for any guitarist’s gig bag.
Rating
GGGG
Get it!
Kyser
Features
The Kyser Quick-Change Capo is a classic spring-based capo known for its ease of use and distinctive aesthetic. Our test model was maple, which is particularly visually appealing, and Kyser offers a wide range of colors and finishes. Its iconic design and ease of quick changes are key features, making it a good capo for guitar for live performance and quick key changes.
Tuning
Tuning accuracy with the Kyser Capo is generally good. However, like many spring capos, optimal tuning requires some practice in precise placement. After a brief break-in period, tuning performance improved, and it performed accurately on three of the four test guitars. Interestingly, it did not tune as well on the Les Paul, tending to produce slightly sharp notes.
Ease of Use
The Kyser is very easy to use, true to its “Quick-Change” designation. It is somewhat tight, requiring a firm grip to operate. A thoughtful design feature is its intended placement from the bass side of the strings, preventing the capo from obstructing the fretting hand.
Build Quality
The Kyser Capo is well-made and feels more premium than its price suggests. It is robust and features a smoothly varnished finish, contributing to both its appearance and feel. The quality construction is evident, making it a good capo for guitar in terms of both performance and durability.
Value For Money
The Kyser Capo offers excellent value within its price range. Despite being one of the more affordable capos in the review, it performs well and offers good build quality and aesthetics. Aside from being slightly tight and less ideal for the Les Paul in our test, it’s a very good capo overall.
Rating
GGGG
Get it!
Conclusion: What is the Best Acoustic Guitar Capo?
The majority of capos reviewed performed admirably, with some being exceptional and only a couple falling short.
Our top recommendations are the Shubb F1, Thalia 200, and G7th Performance 2.
These three capos excel in tuning accuracy, ease of use, build quality, and overall design. While they are not the cheapest options, they exemplify the principle that you often get what you pay for. These are simply outstanding capos that represent a worthwhile investment for serious guitarists seeking a good capo for guitar.
If we had to choose just one, the G7th Performance 2 would narrowly take the top spot, though the other two are also fantastic choices.
While some believe there’s a distinct “best capo for acoustic guitar” or “best for electric guitar,” these top three demonstrate that a truly good capo for guitar is versatile and performs excellently across different guitar types.
For guitarists on a tighter budget, the D’Addario NS, Kyser, or Dellwing capos offer solid performance on a variety of guitars.
It’s also worth noting that some manufacturers offer variations of their capos designed for different neck widths. If your acoustic guitar has a particularly wide neck, consider exploring these specialized models for optimal fit and performance.
Image of the reviewer's hand holding a capo, with a selection of guitars in the background, representing the testing process.
About Our Testing Guitars
To thoroughly test each capo, we used the following guitars, which represent a range of neck profiles and characteristics:
- Cort MR-710F (Acoustic)
- Aria AGP-001 (Acoustic)
- Yamaha Pacifica 812v (Electric)
- Epiphone Les Paul (Electric)
All guitars were accurately intonated prior to testing. We verified string tuning before applying each capo at various fret positions to ensure accurate assessment of any tuning discrepancies introduced by the capo itself.
While we focused primarily on acoustic guitar testing, we also evaluated capo performance on electric guitars.
In addition to tuning tests, we also used each capo while playing excerpts from songs like Fast Car and Scarborough Fair. These songs offer a good mix of fingerpicking and strumming styles and are well-suited for capo use, allowing us to assess real-world playing performance.
We plan to conduct more round-up reviews in the future if our readers find this format helpful and informative. Your feedback is valuable to us, so please let us know your thoughts!
That concludes our comprehensive capo review! Leave a comment below to share your experiences with the capos listed, or let us know your favorite or least favorite capo and why!
