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How to choose the Best Guitar Pick (for beginners)
Let's dig into one of the key accessories that beginner guitarists often overlook - the humble guitar pick. There's a lot more to it than meets the eye, and choosing the right one can significantly change your playing experience.
So what's "the best guitar pick"? That's an impossible to answer question. But I can help you make the decision a bit easier.
If you don't have time, I just recommend you purchase a variety pack. These packs come with all different types of guitar picks. Thicker picks, Thinner picks. All kinds of different materials and different shapes. It's probably the best way to find your personal preference and find the best guitar pick for you.
Pick Thickness: You Like 'Em Thin or Thick?
In the world of guitar picks, size does matter! Beginner guitarists often start with thinner picks as they allow a bit of give, making your strumming a touch more forgiving. These thinner picks can be easier to handle when you're still finding your rhythm.
But, as you progress and become more comfortable with your technique, you might find that thicker picks provide more control. They're generally less flexible, meaning you can play with greater precision. So don't be afraid to try out both thinner and thicker picks to see which ones resonate with you.
We explore materials further down. But here's a list of average thicknesses:
Plastic (Celluloid):
- Thin: 0.46mm - 0.70mm
- Medium: 0.71mm - 1.20mm
- Thick: 1.21mm - 2.00mm
Nylon:
- Thin: 0.38mm - 0.60mm
- Medium: 0.61mm - 1.00mm
- Thick: 1.01mm - 1.40mm
Tortex (Delrin):
- Thin: 0.50mm - 0.70mm
- Medium: 0.71mm - 1.00mm
- Thick: 1.01mm - 1.20mm
Is There a Difference Between Electric and Acoustic?
If you're an electric guitarist aiming for a fuller, louder sound with more control over individual notes, thicker picks, usually above .88mm, could be your best bet. Many electric players also lean towards smaller, pointier picks. These allow for precision and speed, crucial for rock or metal styles.
Acoustic players, on the other hand, might gravitate towards thinner picks. These, in the range of .38mm to .60mm, often produce a softer, brighter tone, perfect for strumming. Standard-shaped picks are typically a good choice for acoustic guitars, favoring smooth, rhythmic playing.
Pick Shapes: The Big Three
Picks come in all shapes and sizes, and each has its unique advantages. Here's a rundown of the three most popular shapes:
- Standard (Tear-drop): This is the shape most people picture when they think of a guitar pick. It has a wider body and a pointed tip, which makes it a versatile choice for both strumming and picking individual notes.
- Jazz: Jazz picks are smaller and more pointed. They offer fantastic control and are a favorite among shredders and jazz guitarists (as the name suggests!). Don't let the name fool you, though. They're not just for jazz - they're a great choice for any intricate playing styles.
- Triangle: Triangle picks have three identical corners. This gives them a longer life, as you can switch corners when one wears out. They're often favored by bassists or guitarists who like a larger grip area.
Remember, the 'good pick' is the one that feels comfortable and suits your playing style. Experiment with different shapes and find what works for you.
Pick Materials: Plastic, Nylon, and Tortex
Just like shapes, guitar picks are made from a range of different materials. Let's check out the top three:
- Plastic (Celluloid): Plastic picks, often made from celluloid, are the most common. They're flexible and come in a wide variety of designs and colors. These picks produce a warm, fat tone that's ideal for strumming. These picks typically range in thickness from 0.46mm to 1.5mm.
- Nylon: Nylon picks have a slick, smooth feel and offer a bright, clear tone. They're available in many thicknesses, from very thin to very thick, making them versatile for different playing styles. Ranges typically fall between 0.38mm and 1.21mm.
- Tortex (Delrin): Originally designed to mimic the properties of tortoiseshell, Tortex picks are durable and resist wear. They provide a bright, snappy tone, and are popular for their gripping surface. These picks usually range from about 0.50mm to 1.14mm in thickness.
Playing Style: Strumming or Picking?
If you find yourself drawn to strumming, laying down big, beautiful chords and setting the rhythmic backdrop for a song, then a thin, flexible pick can be your best friend. These picks glide across multiple strings with ease, making it more comfortable to strum those rhythms and harmonies that form the heart of many songs.
But perhaps you're more excited by the thought of crafting solos, playing intricate riffs, or fingerpicking delicate melodies. In these situations, a thicker, more rigid pick could be your go-to. The rigidity of thicker picks gives you a greater level of control over each individual note, allowing for better precision and articulation when you're focusing on single strings or complex patterns.
Personal Preference: Variety is the Spice of Life
When it comes to guitar picks, there's no one-size-fits-all. The best way to find your perfect match is to try a variety pack. This gives you a taste of different picks - different shapes, thicknesses, and materials. In this journey of music, personal preference rules. So, trust your instincts, keep an open mind, and have fun discovering what works best for you.
Find my recommended variety pack for Electric Guitar Picks and for Acoustic Guitar Picks.
My Personal Preference
After playing for 3/4 years, I've settled on the 1.5mm DUNLOP U.S.A. Gator Grip picks. I've come to find they're the best picks for my personal preference. They come in triangle and regular teardrop shape, I chose the latter. It's a bit of a thicker pick, but that suits the style I like to play.
So there you have it, folks! That's how to chose the right pick for you. Remember, there's no right or wrong pick. It's all about what helps you make the music you love. Until next time, keep those strings buzzing and enjoy your journey into the fantastic world of guitar playing!
