Our Picks of Guitar Capos

Dunlap Trigger Capo

Types of Capos:

As important as the Capo is to the guitar player, there have been many developments in the Capo technology over the past several decades. There are several types of Capos you should consider for your capo needs:

Trigger Capos:

Basically these are spring-loaded models that open by grasping them and squeezing 2 levers together to open the capo to its maximum opening. You then can just insert it over the neck and relieve the pressure.

Pros: Very easy to install and even easier to move from fret to fret. Just a little squeeze and you can just slide it up to another fret. Easy to store on the guitar headpiece (this is where I store mine).

Relatively inexpensive (depending on the manufacturer). Does very little to change the pitch of the strings when you install and when you move the capo, and this is avery good thing.

Cons: The downward force of most models cannot be adjusted, so if your string action is not ideal, you may have some trouble having enough clamping pressure to clearly capo the strings.

My Choice: My favorite Trigger Capo in made by Jim Dunlop and is the Dunlop Trigger Capo:

Paige P6E 6-String Guitar Capo

Controlled Tension Capos:

These Capos are a great option for adjusting whatever tension you need on your strings. To install, you simple open the Capo fully and swing open the top padded clamping bar, then adjust it and screw in the amount of downward force you desire.

Pros: I love the fact that you can easily adjust your tension to exactly what you need for your guitar setup. It is very easy to adjust to another fret by just a few twists on the tension adjustment knob, sliding the capo and twist the tension back in. Also it stores very easily and out of the way by loosening the tension and hopping it over the guitar nut. The pricing of these capos is very reasonable and this should be one you own.

Cons: This is not a grab-it and clamp it on Capo. This one takes more time to install than most of the other capos with similar features. Also the tension know, although it is knurled, it is a bit hard to crank in enough tension on a harder playing guitar.

My Choice: My favorite Controlled Tension Capo is made by Paige and is the Paige P6E Controlled Tension Capo:

Shubb Deluxe Guitar Capo

Controlled Tension Lever Capos:

These types of Capos are one of my favorites. They are easy to install, adjust and don’t cause the guitar to go out of tune. Shubb is one of the old time companies in the Capo business and they really know what they are doing. This is a quality built capo that will service you very well.

Pros: These Capos easily open and just slide over the neck from the side. There is a tension control knob that is easy to adjust as it controls a roller to apply tension to the lever. The pads for the fretboard are great and I really love this capo.

Cons: Just a bit more expensive than some, but at less than $21.00 it is till a great bargain for what you get.

My Choice: My favorite Controlled Tension Lever Capo is made by Shubb and is the Shubb Stainless Steel Deluxe Guitar Capo:

Dunlop Victor Capo-Curved

Locking Grip Lever Capos:

In my opinion, the Locking Grip Lever Capos have it all – everything that I am looking for in a capo. This is my capo of choice and if there were no others, I would be perfectly content.

Pros: The Victor Capo by Dunlop is what I use all the time. It is quick to install, easy to apply the clamping pressure by twisting a large knurled knob and you can crank in exactly the right amount of tension. It will not change your string tuning and is extremely easy and fast to move. It stores on the top of the peghead just as easy. I love the solid brass construction which develops a beautiful patina over time. The tension is geared so anyone can dial in as much tension as you desire.

Cons: None. I think this is the perfect Capo!

My Choice: My favorite Locking Grip Lever Capos is made by Shubb and is the Dunlop Victor Capo-Curved:

Jim Dunlop 7191 Russell Gtr Capo

Elastic Strap Capos:

If you are looking for an inexpensive spare cape or even a couple of them, I would pick one up. This is the original Capo that I owned and used for years. Basically it is better than a pencil and a couple of rubber bands, but now by much.

Pros: The Dunlop Russell Elastic Band

Cons: The Dunlop Russell elastic bank capo is one of the originals. It is amost impossible to install one of these with having to do a complete re-tune of your guitar. They also do not allow very accurate tension adjustment and it is difficult to store the capo on the guitar. Again good as a last resort type of capo.

My Choice: My favorite Locking Grip Lever Capos is made by Shubb and is the Jim Dunlop 7191 Russell Gtr Capo: