The Essential Guide to Finding the Best Guitar Pick + Reviews
Investing in the best guitar pick for the money is not simple. If you have no time on your hands to explore all of the available choices, we are here to make this entire process easier for you. After assessing the market, we have concluded that the ChromaCast CC-Sample is the product you should consider getting. This set contains 12 picks that have an easy to hold wide design and a rounded tip so that you can avoid any accidental chipping. Besides, a rounded tip in a guitar pick means that the picks can help you play warm musical tones with little effort. All the models included in the deal come in various colors and they have different levels of thickness. The product is made of celluloid, a substitute for natural tortoiseshell, hence, it is environmentally friendly. If this option is out of stock, check out the Fender 351 Premium Celluloid .
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
If you value versatility, this set of 12 picks is all you need. All the picks included in the deal have different levels of thickness and they come in distinct colors so that you can identify them easier. Because they were manufactured out of celluloid, these picks are environmentally friendly.
If you are a novice, you might find them a bit slippery.
Given that these picks have a wide body and a rounded tip, they are safe to use as they will not cause any type of chipping. Besides, they are comfortable to hold and they can pass the test of time. They are perfect to use when playing fast single note music passages.
2nd Best
This alternative is the go-to product if you want to buy medium picks that are made in the USA. The choice is also manufactured out of celluloid and, thus, it is friendly to the environment, which is a very important factor to consider when shopping for any product. The set includes 12 picks that you can use.
The design of the model is not similar to that of other Fender options.
These picks have that traditional 351 shape that you are prone to recognize and love if you are a fan of the products made by Fender. Each pick is 1.2 inches in length and it has a nice design that feels comfortable in one’s hand. The product is suitable for all guitarists.
Also To Consider
If you are looking for a set that consists of a variety of picks that come in numerous sizes as well as textures, look no further than this choice. The model is made in the USA and it includes 12 picks that you can use no matter your level of expertise. The picks come in various colors and they have a nice design.
The pack does not include many smaller picks.
Given the variety of this product, you can utilize these picks to experiment with your guitar playing. On top of that, these picks are very stylish and comfortable and that can be presented as a gift for that friend of yours that loves jamming in his/ her spare time.
10 Best Guitar Picks (Updated Reviews) in 2020
Finding the best guitar picks for the money is not easy, especially if you are not familiarized with all the pros and cons that the alternatives on the market have to offer. If you need a little bit of help exploring your options, here is a comprehensive list of products that have received great reviews from both the specialists and former users.
- 1. ChromaCast CC-Sample
- 2. Fender 351 Premium Celluloid
- 3. Dunlop PVP101 Pick Variety Pack
- 4. Fender Premium Picks Sampler – 24 Pack
- 5. Dunlop 44P73 .73mm Nylon Standard
- 6. Donner Nostalgia Celluloid Guitar Picks with Key Chain
- 7. Zhovee 60 Pack Abstract Art
- 8. Dunlop Electric Variety Pack Guitar Picks PVP113
- 9. Haneye 100 Pcs Guitar Picks Variety
- 10. Fender 351 Shape Graphic Picks 12 Pack
- Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions:
1. ChromaCast CC-Sample
If you are a big fan of classic guitar picks, look no further than this option. When shipped, the product consists of no less than 12 guitar picks that you can use per your needs. The picks come in a wide assortment of colors and levels of thickness.
These picks have a rounded tip that allows you to play carefully, without causing any chipping. Because half of the picks are made of celluloid and not of tortoiseshell, the choice is environmentally friendly and durable. The other six included models are the traditional Dura Picks made and distributed by ChromaCast.
Given the variety of all the picks included in the deal, you will be able to use them to experience the music that you like to perform and create.
On top of that, you can present this set of picks as a gift for your fellow guitar players as they will definitely appreciate it.
Pros
If you care about versatility, this is the product for you as it consists of six Dura Picks and six picks manufactured out of celluloid.
Because you get so many picks in the deal, you will surely find one that suits your needs and playing style perfectly.
Celluloid is a popular material that is known for its durability. Hence, this set will surely pass the test of time.
The picks included in the price come in a wide array of colors and sizes. Therefore, they can be utilized by all types of guitar players.
Cons
Even though you get 12 picks in the deal, if you utilize them often, you will start noticing signs of wear. This is not necessarily an important drawback.
If you are a novice, and you are still not used to handling guitar picks, you might find these ones a bit slippery. It all depends on your preferences.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($3.98)
2. Fender 351 Premium Celluloid
As its name suggests, this next product is characterized by its versatility. In fact, all the 12 guitar picks that you’ll get if you decide to invest in this model come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors. This way, no matter your preferences, you will definitely find one that best compliments your style of playing.
Even more so, it should be noted that this choice is manufactured out of celluloid, a material that is sturdy and that feels great in one’s hands. Besides, picks made of this material are known for giving away that round and warm musical tone that you know and love.
When it comes to the shape of these picks, you should know that they have that traditional 351 shape that numerous guitar players simply love. So, if you want to, you can give this set of picks as a gift for your gifted guitar-playing friend.
Pros
This product is perfect for players of all ages and levels of expertise. This is possible because it is highly versatile and simple to use.
Moreover, these picks made and distributed by Fender stand out because they can provide players such as yourself with plenty of comfort.
The picks included in this deal come in many colors and sizes. They all have the traditional 351 shape that so many guitarists swear by.
Because these picks are made of celluloid, they are quite durable and they can be used regularly before you’ll need to replace them.
Cons
Some of the picks included in the price are not very sturdy. Therefore, if you are a novice looking for thicker models, be sure to explore other options.
Given their design, these alternatives do not provide the user with an excellent grip. This is not necessarily a drawback if you are an experienced player.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($2.99)
3. Dunlop PVP101 Pick Variety Pack
If you happen to be a fan of guitar picks made by Dunlop, this alternative should definitely make it to your list. This set of 12 picks includes a variety of sizes and textures so that you can use them to experiment with your guitar playing skills.
These Dunlop guitar picks stand out from other alternatives because of their versatility. In fact, the pack of 12 picks includes a large selection of models, such as 0.60 and 0.73 nylon standard picks, and 0.60 and 0.73 Tortex ones, just to name a few. All the picks featured in the deal are either medium or thin-sizes and they are manufactured out of celluloid, a material that is both flexible and incredibly durable.
This product is made in the USA and it is preferred by numerous experienced guitar players out there. Dunlop, the manufacturer of this option is highly acclaimed by professional players and it is known for producing quality musical instruments and accessories.
Pros
Given that this set of picks includes models of various sizes and textures, it is a great gift for a novice guitarist that is experimenting with his/her music.
The set features no less than 12 picks that are manufactured out of high-quality celluloid, a material that is durable and flexible.
What is more, this product was made in the USA. It is eco-friendly and very versatile.
All the guitar picks included in this deal are light and medium-sized. They are very comfortable to grip and they can help you achieve the perfect tone.
Cons
There is a chance that you will not like all of the picks included in the set. Yet, this is prone to happen with all pack deals that you can find online.
Overall, this product supplies users with what can be called a basic selection. If you are a seasoned player who knows what you are looking for, feel free to explore other alternatives.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($3.59)
4. Fender Premium Picks Sampler – 24 Pack
This set of no less than 24 picks is the go-to choice for many professional artists out there. The selection of picks included in the set is rather varied. Therefore, this product includes thin, medium as well as heavy gauges that you can use when playing your favorite music pieces.
What is more, it should be pointed out that all the picks featured in the price have a beautiful design that all guitarists will find appealing. This set is especially suitable for those looking for a product that delivers a warm and round music tone that is very pleasing.
You can utilize this option no matter the type of guitar that you own. The picks are made of celluloid, a durable material and, thus, they can pass the test of time. On top of that, they can be given as a gift to guitarists, no matter their level of expertise.
Pros
This set of guitar picks includes no less than 24 picks that one can use on all types of guitars. They are suitable for both novices and experienced players.
Moreover, the option is made of high-quality celluloid. Consequently, these picks are sturdy and very much flexible.
The picks included in the set vary in size from thin to medium and even heavy gauge. So, there are plenty of options for you to experience with your guitar playing skills.
Because the picks come in many colors and, given their appealing design, you will certainly enjoy using them at all times.
Cons
When compared to other available counterparts, it should be noted that this product does not include an added grip. You can fix this by using some sandpaper.
The price of the set might deter some buyers from trying it. Still, keep in mind that the product includes 24 guitar picks of different levels of thickness.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($11.99)
5. Dunlop 44P73 .73mm Nylon Standard
If you are a big fan of 0.73 gauge picks, this is the product for you. Once again, this pack consists of 12 picks that you can use when practicing or when performing. Given that they are made of good materials, you will not have to reorder them any time soon.
This product is perfect to use if you are an acoustic guitar player but they also perform well when utilized for heavy, aggressive pieces. The tactile gripping surface of these picks was specially molded to provide you with plenty of comfort and convenience. These picks have gripping on both sizes.
You can use these picks for soloing or for strumming, depending on your preferences. This product is quite versatile and it comes in a simple, neutral design that you might like. The picks can be used on any acoustic or electric guitar. This product is available in other sizes as well.
Pros
Because these picks were specially molded, they have a particular gripping surface that can provide you with all the necessary comfort while playing.
The product is made of high-quality material and it can pass the test of time. Each set includes 12 picks.
All the guitar picks featured in this deal are 0.73 in size. They are versatile enough to be used on both acoustic and electric guitars.
The manufacturer of the model has made a name for itself in the business by making and distributing musical instruments and accessories since 1975.
Cons
If you are not interested in a product that is thicker, we recommend that you start exploring other options. Yet, the set is also available in several other sizes.
If you sweat a lot, these picks might prove unsuitable for your needs. Yet, they do feature a special pattern that provides you with added grip.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($3.31)
6. Donner Nostalgia Celluloid Guitar Picks with Key Chain
This alternative includes no less than sixteen quality guitar picks that are made of celluloid, a durable and flexible material. These picks have a classic shape and they feature eye-catching art painting designs.
What is more, the picks featured in this deal have four distinct levels of thickness, from thin (0.46 MM) to medium (0.71), heavy (0.96 mm) as well as extra heavy (1.2 mm). All the picks come shipped in a beautiful metal box that has a luxurious construction.
Besides, if you decide to invest in this model, you will also receive a keychain pick holder that is made of quality leather. Consequently, you can always keep a guitar pick with you, whenever you go traveling.
Given the design, as well as the additional accessories that this model comes with, this set can make for a wonderful gift for that friend of yours who loves playing the guitar.
Pros
This set of 16 guitar picks is made of celluloid. Therefore, if you value both durability and flexibility, this is the option you should get.
Moreover, the product comes alongside a beautiful box that you can use to store the picks, as well as a pick holder case that is made of quality leather.
Because the picks included in the deal come in various sizes, you can use them to experiment with your guitar playing skills.
The design of these picks is very appealing. The product can make for a wonderful gift, no matter the occasion.
Cons
Because celluloid is a slippery material, you have to spend some time getting used to the texture of these picks. They might be tricky to use as a beginner.
At first, there is a chance that you will notice a faint smell that these picks have. The odor goes away as time passes.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($7.99)
7. Zhovee 60 Pack Abstract Art
If you are a novice and you run through your fair share of guitar picks every month, this next product might be just what you need. All the 60 picks that this set includes allow you to play music that is rich and warm in tone. What is more, all the picks included in the deal are made of high-quality celluloid.
The picks have a very pleasant design. They are colored in bright colors and they are ultra-thin, lightweight and they feel comfortable to the touch. Because of their shape and body, these picks fit perfectly in your hands. Therefore, you will have no issues using them when performing your favorite tunes.
It should also be added that not all picks have the same thickness. In fact, the set is made up of models that are 0.46 mm, 0.71 as well as 0.96 mm. So, there is a wide variety of sizes that you can experiment with.
Pros
Given that this set includes no less than 60 picks, you will not have to reorder the product any time soon. It is the perfect gift for novices.
The wide body of these picks, as well as their dense and round tips, make them suitable to be used when experimenting with classical tones.
Besides, the picks come in three distinct levels of thickness so that you will surely get the type of sound that you enjoy most.
The units included in the deal are high-quality, as they are made of celluloid. Furthermore, they are thin, lightweight, and comfortable to hold.
Cons
Because they are rather thin, there is a chance that these guitar picks will break unexpectedly, especially if you fail to utilize them as intended.
Depending on the batch that you get, the picks that you receive might not be as colorful as you might want them to be.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($7.88)
8. Dunlop Electric Variety Pack Guitar Picks PVP113
As you probably know as an experienced guitarist, the one thing that you have to do when you grow tired of the tone of your electric guitar is to invest in a new set of picks.
If you are scouring the market in search of a selection of picks that can 100% compliment the tone and the playability of your beloved electric guitar, be sure to add this product to the list. The picks included in the set are made of different high-quality materials and, thus, they will last a while.
Besides, they come in an array of shapes and gauges that will for sure provide you with the variety that you want from a product of this type. This 12- item alternative was made in the USA. All the picks featured in the deal have a sharper tip so that you can precisely play single-note runs.
Pros
This set of 12 picks was specially designed to be utilized with electric guitars. So, if you own an instrument of this type, this is just the right option for you.
Given the shape of the picks, they have sharper tips, they supply the guitarist with better control over the notes.
All the picks included in the deal come in different shapes and sizes. Given the wide selection, you will surely find a few that you’ll enjoy utilizing.
The product is manufactured out of high-quality materials. Therefore, if you invest in this pack, you won’t have to reorder it any time soon.
Cons
The variety in thickness and stiffness is not that big when it comes to this product. As a novice, you will probably not notice this aspect.
The picks included in this deal are rather thick. If you are a fan of thinner models, be sure to look for other models.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($6.99)
9. Haneye 100 Pcs Guitar Picks Variety
This pack of 100 assorted picks is also an option that you should explore if you value versatility. The picks included in the price come in many shapes, colors, and levels of thickness. Therefore, you will be able to explore with the tone of the music that you play.
According to the seller, this product is the perfect choice for those who are in search of a unique music experience. The picks featured in the deal come in various levels of thickness, from 0.46 mm to 0.71 mm to 0.96 mm. They are suitable to be used when playing acoustic and bass guitars, as well as ukuleles.
All the models featured in the deal are manufactured out of celluloid, a material that is flexible, yet durable. They have a special shape that can fit your hands perfectly and they are fairly simple to use when practicing, as well as when performing in front of crowds.
Pros
These picks are made of celluloid, a high-quality material that is sturdy, yet flexible. All the picks featured in the deal have a nice design.
In total, this set includes 100 picks that you can utilize per your needs. The models come in various shapes and sizes.
These picks have various levels of thickness that vary from 0.46 mm to 0.71 mm and even 0.96 mm. So, this product is rather versatile.
Given the shape of these picks, they fit wonderfully in your hands and they can provide you with a wonderful, rich tone that you will probably enjoy.
Cons
In very rare situations, there is a risk that you will receive less than 100 picks. Still, this is seldom the case.
These models have a tendency to break rather easily. However, given that you will get 100 off them, this should not be a concern for you.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($9.96)
10. Fender 351 Shape Graphic Picks 12 Pack
If you want to buy a set of picks that you can use with your electric and acoustic guitar, as well as with your bass and mandolin, look no further than this product. This set of 12 picks has a very nice design that you will probably appreciate if you love to have a pop of color in your life.
Because all the picks included in the price come in the traditional 351 shape, they will certainly feel both familiar and comfortable in your hands. Furthermore, given that all the picks are made of celluloid, they have that distinctive smooth surface that feels comfortable in your hands. They are also durable and they come in a beautiful design.
Besides, these picks can help you play round musical tones, no matter your level of expertise. In fact, these medium-sized picks are the perfect choice for a player that enjoys warmer times.
Pros
The product is flexible, and thus, perfect to utilize both during practice and at concerts. This is true because all the picks are manufactured out of celluloid.
Because you get no less than 12 picks in this deal, you do not have to worry that you won’t be able to find one that you love.
If you are a guitarist who looks for a product that provides you with flexibility, this is definitely one option you should consider exploring.
One of the biggest advantages of this unit is that you can utilize it with guitars of all types, as well as with mandolins.
Cons
The checkerboard pattern that these picks feature can be a little bit skewed. So, if you value aesthetics, this might be one aspect that disappoints you.
Because these models are made of a material that is durable, yet thin. The sharpness of the color that the product features might not be as intense as you wish.
Buy from Amazon.com for ($3.79)
Our Comprehensive Buying Guide
If you are a novice looking for the best guitar picks available, there is a chance that you find this process rather strenuous, especially given the fact that there are so many models of picks that you can opt for. To come to your rescue, there is a comprehensive buying guide that you should check out before you make a purchase.
Thickness
No matter if you want to buy acoustic or metal guitar picks, one of the first features that you should consider is the thickness of the product. On average, picks come in four levels of thickness: thin (from 0.40 to 0.60 mm), medium (0.60 to 0.80 mm), heavy (0.80 to 1.20 mm) and extra heavy picks that are 1.20 mm thick or more.
On the one hand, thinner options can deliver bright tones because their surface can actively accentuate higher frequencies. They also have a tighter dynamic range that is perfect for studio recordings and guitar strumming.
On the other hand, thicker guitar picks are more suitable for mellower tones because of their round edges that emphasize more on the bass. Plus, they have a considerably wider dynamic range as they offer better control over the volume. According to seasoned guitarists, thicker models are best to be used for electric guitars.
Texture
A guitar pick is one of the most important guitar accessories that you can purchase. The texture of a product of this type is vital, as it determines the level of comfort that you will feel while using it. In other words, the more textured a unit is, the more friction you get and, thus, the easier it will be for you to control it per your liking.
As numerous guitar pick reviews have pointed out, as a novice, it is recommended that you look for options that have a textured surface. These picks are better suited because they provide you with a better grip.
Additionally, keep in mind that texture is also proven to affect the way in which the pick rolls on the strings. If you want to achieve a clean and smooth natural tone, you should compromise and opt for a model with a slippery surface.
Size and shape matter
If you have ever read a guitar pick review before, you probably understand that the size of a product matters. First things first, it is vital to point out that the size of a pick depends greatly on the actual size of your hands.
In the case of smaller picks, there is considerably less distance between your hands and the strings and, thus, you will find it effortless to incorporate your favorite hand techniques while playing.
When it comes to shape, it is generally recommended that you select a product that has the classic triangular or teardrop shape. One aspect that you should spend some time assessing is the shape of the tip.
Provided that you get an expensive or a cheap guitar pick that features a sharp tip, you will get to enjoy a strong attack and a bright tone. This is perfect for soloing. Picks that have a rounder tip offer a softer attack and they deliver a mellower tone. This is why they are best for strumming.
If you follow these recommendations, we are confident that you’ll find an affordable guitar pick set that will suit your needs perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How long do guitar picks last?
There is not a set time period when you should replace your pick. Instead, most experienced guitarists recommend that you do so whenever the tip of the pick gets worn out. Depending on how often you play the guitar, you might have to change the pick once every couple of hours when you are performing or once every few months.
If you have a favorite pick that you do not want to replace, you can use some sandpaper to sharpen its tip. However, doing so repeatedly might cause the model to lose its shape. Given that most pick sets include 12 or more units, you will surely always have a pick that you can utilize instead of the one that you already use.
On top of that, generally speaking, if you rarely play the guitar, chances are that you won’t need to replace the pick too often.
Q: What is the point of a guitar pick?
A guitar pick or a plectrum is the device that you have to use while playing so that you can hit all the notes that you want on your favorite guitar. Of course, by this, we do not mean that you cannot play the guitar just by using your fingers.
However, using a pick instead of solely your fingers can help you produce brighter and louder notes. Additionally, no matter if you opt for expensive or cheap guitar picks, it is impossible to do good strumming without one.
Guitarists also argue that the use of a device of this type is essential when it comes to playing faster notes. The first guitar picks were manufactured out of tortoiseshell. Since the ’60s, they have been made of celluloid or nylon. Now you can find models that have various designs and shapes and, thus, chances are that you’ll find one that will suit your needs.
Q: How should I choose the right pick thickness?
The thickness of a guitar pick is measured in millimeters. As we have pointed out in the buying guide above, there are four types of thickness variations that you can opt between, thin, medium, heavy and extra heavy.
On average, heavier models can produce what can be described as a darker sound than lighter units. Additionally, heavier choices provide you with more control over the notes that you are playing.
Still, when compared to their lighter counterparts, it should be added that heavier picks are a bit more challenging to utilize. This is why novices often prefer lighter picks. Thin picks are best for rhythm guitars but they are not suitable to be used by lead guitarists.
Given the multiple options that are now available online, you can find affordable guitar picks, no matter the design or the level of thickness that you prefer. Before you make any decisions, you should have a good understanding of your playing style.
