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Guitar Picks

What's the best guitar pick material?

Celluloid picks are flexible and treble-forward, making them a classic choice for strummers and rhythm players. Nylon picks have a warmer, softer response that’s popular in acoustic, folk, and jazz circles. Tortex (synthetic tortoiseshell) picks are favorites in rock and blues for their firm attack and proven durability. And for players who want a high degree of control, premium Ultex and acrylic picks offer extra articulation for precision lead work and aggressive rhythms.

What thickness of guitar pick is best?

As a general guide, thin picks (0.59mm and under) work best for acoustic strummers and beginners, medium picks (0.60 to 0.79mm) offer good all-around versatility, and heavy picks (0.80 to 1.49mm) give lead and rock players greater attack and control. Meanwhile, extra-heavy picks (1.5mm and up) deliver added definition and rigidity for tone chasers and technical players.

Should I use the same pick for acoustic, electric, and bass guitar?

Not necessarily. Many players reach for thinner, flexible picks for acoustic strumming, heavier picks for electric lead work, and stiff, large-shouldered picks for bass. A variety pack is the easiest way to compare gauges and shapes across all three instruments.

How do I shop for guitar picks at Sweetwater?

Sweetwater makes finding the right picks a snap. Use the refined search tools on this page to narrow your options by thickness, shape, material, and brand.

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Find Guitar Picks That Match Your Playing Style


Picks matter more than many players realize. The shape, thickness, and material of your guitar pick all affect how you play and sound. At Sweetwater, we carry a huge selection of guitar picks in every popular gauge, shape, and material, from extra-thin to extra-heavy, so you can find the one that fits your playing style.


Thin Picks Suit Strummers and Beginners


If the songs you play involve lots of strumming, choose an extra-thin or thin guitar pick. Thinner gauges are flexible and forgiving in the hand, and their bright attack gives rhythm playing a percussive texture. This flexibility makes thin and extra-thin plectrums a popular choice for beginner guitarists as well.


Medium Guitar Picks Strike a Balance for Most Players


If you’re looking for greater control but don’t need the full rigidity of a heavy pick, try a medium gauge. Medium picks hit a sweet spot between flex and firmness, making them a versatile choice for players who switch between strumming and single-note lines on acoustic or electric guitar.


Thick Picks Boost Power and Speed for Technical Playing


For hard rock and metal guitarists, reach for a heavy or extra-heavy guitar pick. Thicker picks can give palm-muted chugs and pummeling power chords extra authority while giving lead players a high degree of control. Many experienced players also find heavier gauges help them shape their dynamics more precisely than lighter picks.


Pick Shapes for Every Technique


Standard picks (also called 351-style) are the most common all-purpose shape, with a rounded peak and generous surface area that suits a wide range of styles and grips. Triangle picks feature wider shoulders and three usable tips, giving extra grip surface to bass players and acoustic strummers prone to dropping picks or having them shift in their hands. Sharp-tipped picks are known for their defined attack and high-frequency emphasis, making them a favorite for alternate picking and lead work. Small teardrop picks, similar in profile to the Jazz III, let you choke up near the tip to hit single-note runs with added speed and articulation. Hybrid picker? Sweetwater also carries finger picks and thumb picks for bluegrass and country players.


How Pick Material Shapes Your Tone


Picks are made from a variety of materials, including acrylic, celluloid, Tortex (Delrin), nylon, Ultem, steel, and more. Different pick materials produce different tones on your guitar or bass, so don’t be shy about experimenting. Even easier, grab a variety pack and hear the differences for yourself.

Why shop Guitar Picks at Sweetwater.com?


With a massive selection of Guitar Picks, free shipping, a free 2-year warranty, 24/7 access to award-winning support - and more - Sweetwater gives you more than any other retailer! If you have any questions about Guitar Picks, make sure to give your personal Sales Engineer a call at (800) 222-4700.