A guitar plectrum, commonly known as a pick, is a small, triangular-shaped tool that is used to pluck the strings of a guitar.
While it may seem like a minor detail in the grand scheme of guitar playing, choosing the right plectrum can actually have a big impact on your playing experience and is an essential guitar accessory.
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of guitar picks available, what factors to consider when choosing a pick, and how to determine which pick is right for you.
Types of Guitar Picks
Before we dive into the factors to consider when choosing a guitar pick, it’s important to understand the different types of picks available. Guitar picks can vary in size, shape, thickness, and material. Here’s a quick rundown of the most common types of guitar picks:
Standard Picks – These are the most common type of guitar picks, typically made of plastic or nylon. They are small, triangular-shaped, and have a pointed end that is used to pluck the strings. Standard picks are available in a variety of thicknesses, typically ranging from thin (0.38mm) to thick (1.5mm).
Jazz Picks – Jazz picks are similar to standard picks, but they are smaller and have a sharper point. They are typically made of a harder material, such as nylon or Delrin, which allows for more precise picking.
Thumb Picks – Thumb picks are designed to fit over your thumb, rather than being held between your fingers. They are typically used for fingerpicking styles, such as country or bluegrass, and can be made of plastic, metal, or even tortoiseshell.
Finger Picks – Finger picks are similar to thumb picks, but they are designed to fit over your fingers. They are also typically used for fingerpicking styles and can be made of plastic, metal, or even animal horn.
Specialty Picks – There are a variety of specialty picks available, such as picks made of stone, wood, or even felt. These picks can offer unique tonal qualities and are typically used by more advanced players.
Factors to Consider for the Best Guitar Pick
Now that you understand the different types of guitar picks available, it’s important to consider the factors that will help you choose the right pick for your playing style. Here are a few things to consider:
Material
The material of the pick can have a big impact on the tone and feel of your playing. Plastic picks are the most common and offer a bright, crisp tone. Nylon picks are similar to plastic, but they can be more durable and have a warmer tone. Picks made of harder materials, such as Delrin or Ultex, offer a more precise attack and a brighter tone. Finally, picks made of natural materials, such as bone or tortoiseshell, can offer a warmer, more organic tone.
Thickness
The thickness of the pick can also impact your playing experience. Thinner picks (0.38mm – 0.73mm) are typically easier to play and offer a more flexible feel. They are great for strumming and rhythm playing. Thicker picks (0.88mm – 1.5mm) offer a more solid feel and are great for lead playing and precise picking. Medium thickness picks (0.73mm – 0.88mm) offer a balance between flexibility and precision.
Shape
The shape of the pick can impact how it feels in your hand and how it interacts with the strings. Standard picks are the most common and offer a versatile shape that works well for most playing styles. Jazz picks have a sharper point, which allows for more precise picking. Thumb picks and finger picks have a unique shape that allows for fingerpicking styles.
Grip
Finally, it’s important to consider the grip of the pick. Some picks have a textured surface or raised grip patterns to prevent slipping while playing. This can be particularly important for players with sweaty hands or who play for extended periods of time.
Determining the Best Guitar Pick for You
So how do you determine which pick is right for you? The best way is to try out a few different picks and see which one feels the most comfortable and sounds the best to you. Here are some tips for trying out different picks:
Start with a standard pick – If you’re new to playing guitar, start with a standard pick in a medium thickness (around 0.73mm). This will give you a good starting point to work from.
Experiment with different materials – Try out picks made of different materials to see how they impact your tone and feel. Plastic and nylon picks are the most common, but picks made of harder materials like Delrin or Ultex can offer a different playing experience.
Vary the thickness – Experiment with picks of different thicknesses to see which one feels the most comfortable to you. Thinner picks are generally easier to play, while thicker picks offer a more solid feel.
Try out different shapes – Don’t be afraid to try out different shapes of picks to see which one feels the most comfortable in your hand. Jazz picks and finger picks have a unique shape that may work better for certain playing styles.
Consider your playing style – Finally, consider your playing style when choosing a pick. If you’re primarily a rhythm player, you may prefer a thinner pick. If you’re a lead player, a thicker pick may work better for you.
Best Guitar Pick – Final Thoughts
Choosing the right guitar pick may seem like a small detail, but it can have a big impact on your playing experience. By considering factors like material, thickness, shape, and grip, you can find a pick that feels comfortable in your hand and sounds great when you play.
Remember to experiment with different picks to find the one that works best for you, and don’t be afraid to try out specialty picks or unique materials for a truly personalized playing experience.