The 7+ Best Guitar Capos in 2023 – Find Your Perfect Capo

Last Updated on December 27, 2023 by AG

A guitar capo is a small but powerful accessory that can change the way you play your instrument. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, a guitar capo is a must-have for your accessory collection.

With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best guitar capo for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best guitar capos on the market in 2023 and what sets them apart from the rest. 

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Which Type of Capo Is Best?

There are several different types of guitar capos on the market, including spring capos, lever capos, and clamp capos. Each type of capo has its own unique design and functionality, and each offers a different set of benefits and drawbacks.

Spring capos, for example, are affordable and easy to use, but can sometimes slip out of tune during play. 

Lever capos are more expensive, but offer a more secure grip and are easier to fine-tune. 

Clamp capos are typically the most expensive, but offer a rock-solid grip and are ideal for players who need to make quick capo changes mid-performance.

So when you decide which one is best for you consider your playing style and needs. If you just want to give it a try and experiment with it, a spring capo is a good place to start, as it is affordable and easy to use. 

If you’re a more advanced player, or if you play in a lot of live settings, a lever or clamp capo may be a better choice, as they offer a more secure grip and are easier to fine-tune. 

Ultimately, the best type of capo for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences, take the time to try out different types and you will find the one that works best for you. If you are looking for a different sound, try out some alternative tuning styles.

The Best Guitar Capos Available in 2023

Whether you’re looking for a high-quality capo that will last for years, or you’re on a budget and looking for the best value, we’ve got you covered

1. The G7th Performance 3 ART Capo

The G7th Performance 3 ART Capo is a high-end capo, made of aircraft-grade aluminum, designed for acoustic and electric guitars. It’s known for its exceptional build quality and durability.

One of the key features of the Performance 3 ART Capo is its adaptive radius technology (ART), which allows for easy and precise adjustments of the capo to match the radius of your guitar’s fretboard. This ensures even pressure across all strings, resulting in an in-tune, buzz-free performance.

It has a low-profile design, which allows for easy access to all frets without getting in the way of your playing. 

The Performance 3 ART Capo preserves the natural sound of your guitar, without introducing any unwanted buzz or muffled tone. The Unique Tension ControlTM allows complete control over the pressure on your strings, so you can enjoy maximum tuning stability with minimal tension in any position.

The non-reactive, protective silicone pads keep your guitar’s finish safe, for use with confidence, knowing your instrument is protected. The one-handed use and Free Lifetime Warranty are added bonuses.

Overall, the G7th Performance 3 ART Capo is a top-of-the-line option for guitarists who want a high-quality, versatile, and reliable capo. It’s on the pricier side, but many users feel that it’s worth the investment for the improved playing experience and sound quality. For the free Lifetime Warranty simply register your capo online.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: aircraft-grade aluminum (lightweight and durable)
• Design: The ART (Adaptive Radius Technology) – is adaptable to the guitar neck, providing even pressure across all strings.
• Adjustability: The capo features a micro-adjustment mechanism, allowing you to fine-tune the tension for each string, ensuring that all notes ring out clearly and in tune.
• Quick Release: The capo features a quick-release mechanism, making it easy to move the capo up and down the neck while you’re playing.
• Compatibility: fits most standard guitar neck profiles.
• Color: a range of finishes available, including black, silver, and gold.
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• Advanced Resonance Technology (ART) – even pressure across all strings
• Complete pressure control (ensuring tuning stability)
• Lightweight and Compact Design
• One-handed use
• Lifetime warranty

CONS

Overall, the G7th Performance 3 ART Capo is a high-quality, versatile capo that provides reliable and accurate tuning, making it a popular choice among professional guitarists.

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2. Shubb Original C1 Guitar Capo

The Shubb Original C1 Capo is a high-quality capo and is suitable for both acoustic and electric steel string guitars. Made of brass with a polished nickel finish, this capo is not only stylish but durable too. 

Its unique locking mechanism allows for precise pressure adjustment, ensuring a clear and consistent sound across all frets. With a simple flip of the lever, the C1 can be quickly and securely locked onto the fretboard and removed just as easily. Providing a fast and easy solution for changing keys during performances without interrupting the flow of the music. The soft rubber material mimics the feel of a fingertip, preventing string bending, ensuring that the strings are not pulled off center and by that allows for tuning stability. Saving you the retuning after the use of this capo.

The capo’s compact size and sleek design make it a popular choice among professional musicians and amateurs alike. With 40 years of design and engineering, the Shubb C1 is a reliable and time-tested option for guitarists. Overall, the Shubb Original C1 Steel String Guitar Capo is a reliable and versatile accessory that can enhance your playing experience.

However, some users have reported that it can be difficult to use with certain guitar neck shapes and sizes.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material:  nickel-plated brass
• Design: Curved
• Quick Release: yes
• Compatibility: fits most steel-string acoustic and electric guitars (with a radius of 7.25 inches or more.)
• Color: Nickel
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• High-quality construction and durability
• Precise tuning and intonation
• Quick and easy to use with one hand
• Versatile and can be used on a wide range of fretboard shapes and sizes

CONS

• Relatively expensive compared to other capos on the market
• May not be suitable for guitars with a flat fingerboard or unusual neck shape

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3. Ernie Ball Axis Capo

The Ernie Ball Axis Capo is a lightweight and easy-to-use capo, made from high-quality aluminum. It’s compatible with most electric and acoustic guitars and comes in eight color finishes to match your style.

The dual-radius design makes it compatible with most electric and acoustic models, including six and seven-string guitars. So you can switch up guitars without disrupting your creative flow. 

The capo can be easily shifted with one hand, and the clamping pressure is buzz-free, allowing your songs to sound great in every key, while rubber pads protect your finish.

One of the standout features of the Ernie Ball Axis Capo is its adjustable tension control, which allows you to set the perfect amount of pressure on your strings for optimal tuning and intonation. This feature is particularly helpful for players who frequently change tunings or play with a variety of string gauges.

The Ernie Ball Axis Capo is well-built and durable, with a comfortable grip and a sleek design. 

Overall, the Ernie Ball Axis Capo is a reliable and effective capo that is well-suited for a wide range of guitarists. However, as with any product, it’s important to try it out for yourself to determine if it meets your individual needs and preferences.

SPECIFICATIONS

PROS

• Durable and long-lasting quality
• Precise and consistent pressure across all six strings.
• Quick and easy to use with one hand
• Versatile and can be used on a wide range of fretboard shapes and sizes

CONS

Overall, the Ernie Ball Axis Capo is a useful tool for guitar players who need to change keys quickly and accurately. While it has some drawbacks, its ergonomic design, compatibility with most guitars, and dual-radius design make it a popular choice among guitar enthusiasts.

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4. Dunlop Trigger Capo

The Dunlop Trigger Capo is a popular option among guitar players for its ease of use and quick release function. The trigger-style design allows for easy placement and removal with one hand, making it a convenient option for players who need to change positions quickly during performances or practice sessions.

The Trigger Capo Acoustic Curved Black 83CB has a curved-radius design and a strong spring-action clamp that keeps it firmly in place while you play. Its slim profile ensures that you can move up and down the fingerboard without any obstruction. Additionally, the capo features special padding to protect your instrument’s neck from scratches.

Constructed from lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum, the Trigger Capo is a reliable and durable tool that is perfect for use on the road when you need to change keys on the fly. 

One of the main advantages of the Dunlop Trigger Capo is its versatility. It can be used with guitars of various sizes and shapes, including acoustic, electric, and 12-string guitars. The capo is also available in different colors and finishes to match your instrument’s style.

In summary, the Trigger Capo Acoustic Curved Black 83CB by Dunlop is a convenient and reliable tool that provides an easy and efficient way to change keys on your acoustic guitar. Its strong spring-action clamp, slim profile, and special padding make it an excellent choice for any guitar player, especially those who perform live. 

However, some users reported tuning issues and that the spring tension may be too strong, making it difficult to apply the capo evenly across all strings.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: aircraft-grade aluminum (lightweight and durable)
• Design: curved-radius design
• Adjustability: tension not adjustable
• Quick Release: Strong spring-action clamp
• Compatibility: fits many guitar necks (electric and acoustic)
• Color: different colors including gold, silver and black
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• Quick and easy to use with one hand
• Strong spring-action clamp with precise pressure ensuring a good tone
• Fits many guitar necks, including 12-string guitars
• Durable and long-lasting construction

CONS

• Limited color options
• Limited compatibility (only suitable for guitars with a specific fretboard radius)
• May not provide optimal clamping pressure for all guitars
• May cause tuning issues
• is slightly larger than some other capo models

Overall, the Dunlop Trigger Capo is a reliable and high-quality option for most guitarists. However, as it is only suitable for guitars with a specific fretboard radius it may be not the right one for guitar players who own guitars with different radii. So some users may prefer different capo models depending on their specific needs and preferences.

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5. D’Addario Planet Waves NS Capo Pro

The D’Addario NS Pro capo is beautifully designed capo made of aircraft-grade aluminum, which makes it lightweight and durable. It features a screw/spring-clamp design that allows for adjustable tension, providing a micrometer adjustment that helps minimize buzz and making it suitable for use on six- or 12-string acoustic or electric guitars. 

One of the standout features of the NS Capo Pro is its ergonomic design. The slimline shape and its minimal mass prevent weighing down your guitar’s neck and its small size makes it easy to fret beside the capo. But this capo is suitable for use on guitars with radiused fretboards only, so if you have a classical guitar or a generally flatter-radiused instrument, you will need a different capo.

The capo’s trigger-style design allows for quick and easy application and removal, and the controllable tension maintains accurate tuning without causing any buzzing or muting of the strings. It also has a low profile and can be easily moved up and down the fretboard without interfering with playing. The capo is compatible with a variety of different guitar types and sizes, making it a versatile choice for musicians of all levels.

While this capo is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it is a high-quality option for guitarists who are looking for a capo that is both effective, easy to use, durable and doesn’t hinder their playing.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: aircraft-grade aluminum (lightweight and durable)
• Design: curved-radius design
• Adjustability: yes, micrometer adjustment (screw)
• Quick Release: screw/spring-clamp
• Compatibility: fits many guitar necks (electric and acoustic)
• Color: silver, black
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• Precise pressure adjustment
• lightweight design
• Sleek design that doesn’t get in the way
• Fits many guitar necks, including 12-string guitars
• Durable and long-lasting construction

CONS

6. Fender Smart Capo

The Fender Smart Capo truly lives up to its name, its patent-pending design makes it a clever and convenient choice for guitar players who need to make rapid capo changes.

The Fender Smart Capo is a popular guitar accessory that allows players to quickly and easily change the pitch of their strings without having to retune the instrument. It features a sleek, ergonomic design that makes it easy to use, and it can be quickly and easily adjusted to different tensions.

Additionally, this capo is incredibly lightweight, so it won’t affect the balance of your guitar in the slightest. If you’re not accustomed to this type of capo, it may take a little time to get used to it, but once you do, you’ll be able to use it with ease.

Overall, the Fender Smart Capo is a clever and convenient option for guitar players who want a capo that is easy to use, lightweight, and offers quick adjustments. Its innovative design makes it a worthwhile investment for any musician who wants to elevate their playing experience.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Plastic
• Design: squeeze-on design
• Adjustability: yes
• Quick Release: yes
• Compatibility: for guitars with slender necks and curved fretboards(electric and acoustic)
• Color: black
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• Features a fast clamp system
• Good tuning stability through tension adjustment system
• lightweight design
• Quick and easy to use

CONS

• Limited color options
• Requires some learning and practice to effectively use
• Is a bit larger than some other capos
• May not work with certain guitar neck shapes

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7. Paige Original 6-String Acoustic Capo

The Paige Original 6-String Acoustic Capo is a popular capo designed for acoustic guitars, with a low profile design that allows it to sit close to the fretboard without getting in the way of your playing.

One of the unique features of the Paige capo is its patented technology that allows for precise and even pressure adjustment across the fretboard. This helps to minimize sideways string pull and provides stable tuning as well as gives you an even and accurate sound across all six strings, which is particularly important when playing in alternate tunings or with a guitar that has a high action.

If you’re an electric guitar player, the Paige capo has a version that includes thicker rubber, making it easier to bend the strings. It can also accommodate most fretboard radiuses, except for the most curvaceous ones. Additionally, a wider variant and a 12-string variant of the capo are available. While Paige capos have a higher price point you also get a product that prides itself on being handmade in America.

Overall, the Paige Original 6-String Acoustic Capo is a well-regarded capo that offers precision and ease of use. It’s a good choice for acoustic guitarists who want a reliable and versatile capo that can handle a range of playing styles and tunings.

But it is important to measure your guitar neck before purchasing to ensure that the Paige wraparound capo, which has a width of 2.062 inches (or 2.187 inches for the wide model), will fit properly.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Steel
• Design: Wraparound (16″ radius)
• Adjustability: yes
• Quick Release: no
• Compatibility: for electric and acoustic guitars
• Color: Satin Nickel, ebony
• One-hand use: no

Size:

• Width: 2 1/16” (2.062) with radius
• Open Depth: 1 1/8” (1.125)
• Closed Depth: 11/15-16”
•  Fits to the 10th fret on standard 1 11/16” neck

PROS

CONS

• Position shifts may not be the quickest
• Limited usability on different guitars, due to wrap-around design and set radius
• Expensive

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8. Kyser Quick-Change Guitar Capo

The Kyser Quick-Change Capo is a popular go-to capo for many guitar players, it features a sleek, low-profile design that is easy to use and adjust. 

The sturdy build and high-quality materials offer durability and longevity. Made in the U.S.A. (East Texas)While its design is perfect for quick and easy use, making it a favorite among guitarists who frequently change keys during a performance. It can be easily moved up and down the fretboard with one hand.

The Kyser Quick-Change Capo is available in different variations for a wide range of guitars, including acoustic, electric, and classical models. It fits nearly every guitar, making it a versatile accessory for guitar players of all skill levels. The acoustic version is available in a wide range of colors and some patterns, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding one that fits your style. 

Overall, the Kyser Quick-Change Capo is a well-designed and easy-to-use accessory that provides excellent tuning stability and compatibility with a wide range of guitars. It is a great choice for guitar players who are looking for a reliable and durable capo that is quick and easy to use. That Kyser gives a lifetime warranty on their capos is a statement of quality and durability on its own.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Material: Aluminium
• Design: curved design
• Adjustability: no
• Quick Release: yes, spring clamp
• Compatibility: for acoustic guitars (other varieties available)
• Color: 22 (including black, silver, gold, and more unusual like neon or sunburst)
• One-hand use: yes

PROS

• Quick and easy to use
• suitable for a variety of neck widths and string gauges.
• Sturdy high-quality design
• Available in various colors
• Lifetime warranty

CONS

• spring tension may be too high for some guitarists 
• Non-adjustable padding and pressure

Overall, the Kyser Quick-Change Guitar Capo is a reliable and popular capo that offers many benefits to guitarists, but may not be suitable for everyone depending on their personal preferences and guitar type.

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Do Professional Guitarists Use Capos?

Capos play an important role in the playing of many professional guitarists. They allow musicians to play in a different key without having to transpose chords, and they also allow them to play songs that would otherwise be too difficult or impossible to play on their guitars. 

Additionally, capos can make it easier for musicians to play along with songs or to play in a key that better suits their vocal range. In some cases, capos can even be used to create new and unique sounds, adding a new dimension to the music being played.

Many of the world’s top guitarists use capos in their playing. Some well-known examples include Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and The Edge of U2. 

Are Expensive Capos Better?

The price of a guitar capo is determined by several factors, including materials, design, and brand reputation. Capos can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and even wood, and the choice of material which have an impact on the price too. 

When it comes to guitar capos, the old saying “you get what you pay for” is often true. Generally, more expensive capos are made from higher-quality materials and feature more advanced designs, which can result in better performance and longevity. However, as quality and materials aren’t the only variables shaping the price, there are also many affordable capos on the market that offer excellent performance, making it possible to find a high-quality capo that fits your budget.

Can a Capo Damage a Fretboard?

Using a capo on your guitar can put pressure on the fretboard, which can potentially cause damage over time. This is particularly true if you use the capo often, or if you apply too much pressure when clamping the capo in place.

The likelihood of damage to your fretboard from using a capo depends on several factors, including the quality of the capo, the type of capo you’re using, and the way you’re using it. For example, low-quality capos that are prone to slipping out of tune or applying uneven pressure can increase the risk of damage to your fretboard.

To minimize the risk of damage to your fretboard from using a capo, it’s important to choose a high-quality capo that fits your guitar properly and provides even pressure. You should also be careful not to apply too much pressure when clamping the capo in place, and consider using a capo with soft padding to protect your fretboard from scratches and wear. Finally, be mindful of the way you use your capo, and try to avoid overusing it or applying too much pressure when playing.

How do I Choose the Right Capo?

When choosing a guitar capo, there are several key factors to consider, including the type of capo you want, the size of your guitar, and your budget. It’s also important to consider your playing style, as some capos may be better suited to specific genres of music or playing techniques.

When looking for the right capo, you should consider features such as the type of clamping mechanism, the material and construction of the capo, and the level of adjustability. You may also want to look for a capo with soft padding to protect your fretboard from scratches and wear.

When searching for the best guitar capo for your needs, consider the following tips:

• Try different capos to find the one that feels comfortable and works best for your playing style
• Look for capos made from high-quality materials and built to last
• Consider a capo with a quick-release mechanism for easy use
• Choose a capo that fits your guitar properly and provides even pressure

Conclusion

A guitar capo is an essential tool for any guitar player, whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional. With the right capo, you can enhance your playing style and take your skills to the next level.

When choosing a capo, consider your playing style, the type of music you play, and your budget. Make sure to also consider the potential for damage to your fretboard, and choose a capo that fits your needs and is easy to use.

The best guitar capos of 2023 offer a range of options, from basic models to advanced designs. Take your time to compare the different options available, and choose the one that is best for you. With the right capo, you can take your playing to another level and enjoy endless hours of musical exploration.