Can You Use A Capo On An Electric Guitar: All You Need To Know  

Are capos exclusively meant for acoustic guitars? No! You can use a capo on an electric guitar too. But hold on, before you run off to try it out for yourself, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. For instance, not all capos are to be used for electric guitars. Let’s get you all around ‘can you use a capo on an electric guitar?’, the advantages & disadvantages of using a capo on electric guitar and much more. Let’s get started. 

Can You Use A Capo On An Electric Guitar? 

Although capos are used for acoustic guitars, mostly for folk or country music, using a capo for electric guitar can unlock a whole new realm of possibilities for your playing. So, can you use a capo on an electric guitar? Yes, you can.

The best thing about using a capo on an electric guitar is that it allows you to experiment and produce unique sounds. By placing the capo on different frets, you can easily achieve a higher or lower pitch, allowing you to express different moods and emotions. For example, using a capo on the 3rd fret can give your playing a brighter, more cheerful sound, while using a capo on the 5th fret can create a darker, more melancholic vibe.  

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Capo On Electric Guitar   

Advantages

1. Easy Key Change: With a capo, you can quickly adjust a song’s key without knowing new chord shapes or re-tuning your guitar. It is especially useful to be in sync while playing with others.  

2. Better Output: Using a capo can also enhance the sound of your playing. It often results in a brighter, more resonant sound, particularly when playing in higher keys. The shorter length of the strings (for using a capo) makes them easier to press down, leading to a more expressive and nuanced playing style. 

3. Versatility: Another advantage of using a capo is increased versatility. With this accessory, you can play a wider variety of songs and styles, even if you only know a few chords. It can benefit you if you’re a beginner guitarist still mastering the basics. 

Disadvantages

1. Limited Range: Using a capo can limit the range of your guitar. The shorter length of the strings can make it difficult to play in lower keys or to hit certain notes. It can be a bit frustrating when you need a broader range of notes to create intricate melodies or solos. 

2. Altered Sound: Although using a capo often results in a brighter, more resonant sound, it can also alter the tone and timbre of your guitar. It’s especially noticeable if you’re playing with a high-quality electric guitar with a unique sound. Some guitarists may find the altered sound of a capo not to their liking and prefer to play without one. 

See Also: Best Semi Hollow Guitars Under 1000

What Is The Best Electric Guitar Capo? 

The best electric guitar capo will hold the strings down firmly, allowing you to play without any buzz or unwanted noise. It can also help you play complex chord progressions easily, giving you more freedom to express yourself creatively. In my search for the best, I looked for capos that are easy to use, durable, and won’t compromise the quality of your sound. Below find the 3 best electric guitar capos to my finding.  

Shubb Original C1 (Best Overall) 

The manufacturer, Shubb, is known for producing high-quality products, and this capo is no exception. The brand is so confident in the build quality that it claims its capo will last a lifetime. Its roller design is incredibly effective while playing. The thing I love about this capo is its versatility. You can use it on the bass or the treble side of your guitar, and adjusting the tension is a breeze thanks to the handy screw cap. It fits snugly over the strings, providing just the right amount of pressure and high-quality sound, making it the best in my top 3 list. 

G7th Performance 3 (Best Luxury) 

What sets the G7th Performance 3 capo apart from the previous two versions is its premium quality, polished finish, and size, which falls between its predecessors. One standout feature of this capo is the advanced radius technology; they call it ART. It allows the capo to adjust to any neck curvature for optimal intonation and tuning stability. Plus, the easy-to-use button makes clamping and releasing it a breeze. And don’t worry about damage to your guitar, as the capo has silicone padding to protect it from scratches and dings. 

Kyser Quick-Change Capo for Electric Guitars (Best Lightweight) 

If you’re looking for a reliable and straightforward capo, the Kyser Quick-Change can be an excellent choice. This aluminium-made capo fits snugly onto guitars with nylon strings and flat fretboards. One of this capo’s best features is its simple design. The spring-loaded mechanism is easy to use and allows you to quickly and efficiently change your pitch with minimal fuss. Besides, the lightweight design won’t weigh down your guitar or affect your playing style. 

How To Put Capo On Electric Guitar 

Putting a capo on an electric guitar is simple, but you should keep a few things in mind to ensure you get the best sound possible.  

1. Position The Capo Properly: 

Placing the capo too close to the fret can cause poor intonation and buzzing strings. Instead, try positioning the capo as close to the middle of the fret as possible without going over the fret itself.  

2. Maintain Equal Pressure: 

Make sure the capo applies equal pressure to all of the strings so that you can have a clean sound. If the capo is not applying enough pressure, you should adjust it to achieve equal pressure. 

3. Experiment With Different Capo Positions: 

By experimenting with different capo positions, you can easily find your sweet spot and unlock new playing possibilities to expand your musical repertoire! 

What Happens If You Put A Capo On Electric Guitar? 

Firstly, your sound will transform. When you put on a capo, the strings become tighter, creating a brighter and crisper sound that’s especially noticeable when playing chords or open strings. It’s a subtle yet significant change that can add grandeur to your playing. 

Secondly, a capo will help you change keys on the fly. By placing the capo on a specific fret, you can easily adjust the key of your guitar and continue playing the same chords in a different key.  

Lastly, you can play chords easier after putting on a capo. If you’re struggling with a tricky chord that requires a long stretch, you can put the capo on a higher fret and shorten the distance between the frets.  

Can You Use An Acoustic Capo On An Electric Guitar? 

Acoustic guitars tend to have wider necks than electric guitars, which means capos designed for acoustic guitars might not fit properly on an electric guitar. The good news is some capos on the market are specifically designed to work with both types of guitars, like the Guitar Capo Deluxe , so keep an eye out for those if you’re interested. 

If you’re worried about sound quality, don’t be. Using an acoustic capo on an electric guitar won’t greatly impact your tone. Experimenting with different capos to see what works best for you is always a good idea. So, to sum up: yes, you can use an acoustic capo on an electric guitar, but make sure you find one that fits properly. 

Are Professional Guitarists Using Capos? 

Many famous guitarists use capos in their music, such as Ed Sheeran, Keith Urban, and John Mayer, often used capos in their songs while performing. Professional guitarists use capos in a variety of situations. For example, a guitarist is playing with a keyboardist who is comfortable playing in the key of C. But the guitarist prefers to play in the key of G. Instead of forcing the keyboardist to play in an unfamiliar key; the guitarist will use a capo to match the key without sacrificing the sound. It’s a common practice that ensures that everyone is on the same page. 

Can You Use A Capo On An Electric Guitar: Final Words 

I hope I’ve shed some light on the age-old question, ‘can you use a capo on an electric guitar?’ A capo allows you to explore different keys and give your playing style a fresh twist. You can easily experiment with sound to reach new heights by placing the capo on different frets.