3 cool guitar picks worth buying

We scoured our local stores and the global web to find what we truly think are the most cool guitar picks you can find. We already wrote the definitive guide to the best guitar picks but these picks have been chosen for how unique and badass they are. Our top picks come in a variety of shapes, colors, and materials, and can add a unique touch to a musician's playing style. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, finding the right guitar pick can make a big difference in your playing experience.

In This Article:

• Our Top 3 Cool Guitar Picks
• Rare Material Guitar Picks
• Are Expensive Guitar Picks Worth It?

Top 3 Cool Guitar Picks of 2023

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1. Rombo Guitar Picks

The coolest of cool guitar pick of 2023

Sometimes the guitar world can be a cheesy hotrod flame mess and sometimes it can be classy and gorgeous. Luckily Rombo picks have come along and fallen into that second category with these insanely cool picks. By their packaging alone, you can tell that Rombo puts endless thought into their brand and design but the best thing is that these picks play beautifully as well.
"You know what? I NEVER thought id be leaving a review on some plectrums but these are hands down the best ones i have ever used! They don’t wear down as quick as the Jim Dunlop stuff!"

$8 from Rombo

Our Pick

2. Black Mountain Finger Picks

With 174 five star reviews, the Black Mountain Picks makes one really cool pick. The spring loaded system allows for guitarists to pick up (see what we did there?) hybrid picking (finger picking) easier than ever before. Black Mountain finger picks are available in a few choices with different thickness on Etsy.

Black Mountain Pick - Buy it on Etsy - $19.95

3. BlueChip - TAD  

Blue Chip picks have become notorious among guitarists as one of the best picks available. However, their price has meant that I can't bring myself to buy one and was the main reason that they didn't make it to our article on the best guitar picks on the market.

Blue Chip says that their picks "are produced from a very high-grade, self-lubricating composite material specially formulated for great playing qualities."

BlueChip can be played on any type of guitar but are known for their use on the mandolin.

Blue Chip Picks - Buy it on their site  - $35+  

Types of Cool Guitar Picks

When it comes to guitar picks, there have been no lack of ideas or options available for musicians. Here are some of the types of cool guitar picks that are worth considering.

Custom Guitar Picks

Custom guitar picks are a popular option for musicians who want to personalize their picks. These picks can be customized with a variety of designs, including band logos, album artwork, or personal photos. Custom picks are also available in a range of materials, such as plastic, metal, and wood.

Glow in the Dark Picks

Glow in the dark picks are a fun option for musicians who want to add a unique touch to their playing. These picks are available in a variety of colors and designs, and they can be charged by exposure to light. Glow in the dark picks are typically made from plastic or nylon materials.

Metal Guitar Picks

Metal guitar picks are a durable option for musicians who want a pick that will last. These picks are typically made from stainless steel or brass, and they offer a unique sound although not particularly useful for strum patterns. Metal picks are also available in a range of thicknesses and shapes. Of all the alternate materials guitar picks can be made from metal picks are probably the most functional with other materials risking damaging your strings or your guitar.

Wooden Guitar Picks

Wooden guitar picks are a popular option for musicians who want a warm, natural sound. These picks are typically made from materials such as maple, rosewood, or ebony. Wooden picks are available in a variety of shapes and thicknesses, and they can be customized with laser engraving or other designs.

Overall, there are many types of cool guitar picks available for musicians. Whether you prefer custom picks, glow in the dark picks, metal picks, or wooden picks, there is an option out there that will suit your playing style and preferences.

Stone Picks

Guitar picks crafted from stone offer a unique and earthy tonal quality, delivering a rich and textured sound that complements various playing styles. Their natural weight and durability provide a distinct feel in the guitarist's hand, enhancing precision and control during intricate melodies and strumming patterns. With a fusion of nature's artistry and musical expression, stone guitar picks stand as a captivating blend of form and function for players seeking a distinctive sonic experience.

Coin Picks

Guitar picks repurposed from coins exude a sense of history and individuality with the worn edges and distinct engravings of the coins creating a one-of-a-kind playing surface. Honestly though - they kinda suck and sound terrible!

History of Guitar Picks

Guitar picks, also known as plectrums, have been an essential part of guitar playing since the 19th century. The earliest known guitar picks were made of materials such as bone, ivory, and tortoiseshell. These materials were used because they were durable and could produce a clean sound.

In the early 1900s, celluloid became a popular material for guitar picks due to its flexibility and affordability. Celluloid picks were mass-produced and made guitar playing more accessible to the general public. However, the use of tortoiseshell and other animal products for guitar picks continued until the 1970s when they were banned due to conservation concerns.

In the 1960s, guitarists began experimenting with different shapes and thicknesses of picks to achieve different sounds. Jazz guitarists often used thinner picks to produce a softer, more delicate sound, while rock guitarists preferred thicker picks for a more aggressive sound. Today, guitar picks are available in a wide range of materials, shapes, and thicknesses, allowing guitarists to customize their sound to their liking.

In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in vintage-style guitar picks made from materials such as tortoiseshell and celluloid. However, many guitarists now prefer picks made from synthetic materials such as nylon and Delrin due to their durability and consistency.

Overall, the history of guitar picks is a testament to the evolution of guitar playing and the constant search for the perfect sound.

How to Choose the Right Guitar Pick

When it comes to playing guitar, choosing the right pick can make all the difference in your playing experience. Here are a few things to consider when selecting a guitar pick:

Material

Guitar picks come in a variety of materials, including plastic, nylon, metal, and even stone. Each material has its own unique characteristics that can affect your playing. For example, plastic picks tend to be more flexible and produce a brighter tone, while metal picks are more rigid and produce a sharper, heavier sound. It's important to experiment with different materials to find the one that feels and sounds the best for you.

Thickness

The thickness of a guitar pick can also greatly impact your playing. Thicker picks tend to produce a heavier, more powerful sound, while thinner picks offer more flexibility and a lighter tone. Again, it's important to experiment with different thicknesses to find the one that suits your playing style.

Shape

Guitar picks come in a variety of shapes, including standard, teardrop, and jazz. Each shape can affect the way you hold and play the pick, so it's important to try out different shapes to find the one that feels the most comfortable and natural for you.

Texture

The texture of a guitar pick can also play a role in your playing experience. Some picks have a smooth surface, while others have a textured or grip-enhancing surface. If you tend to drop your pick or have trouble holding onto it, a textured pick may be a good option for you.

In summary, choosing the right guitar pick is a personal decision that requires some experimentation. By considering factors such as material, thickness, shape, and texture, you can find the pick that feels and sounds the best for your playing style.

Benefits of Using Cool Guitar Picks

Using cool guitar picks can provide several benefits for guitar players. Here are some of the advantages of using cool guitar picks:

Improved Grip

Cool guitar picks often have unique designs and textures that provide a better grip than traditional picks. This improved grip can help prevent the pick from slipping out of the player's hand during a performance or practice session. A better grip can also help the player maintain control over the pick, resulting in more accurate and precise playing.

Increased Comfort

Some cool guitar picks are designed with ergonomic shapes that can provide increased comfort during extended playing sessions. These picks can help reduce hand fatigue and strain, allowing the player to focus on their playing without discomfort or distraction.

Enhanced Tone

Cool guitar picks made from different materials can produce unique tones. For example, picks made from metal or stone can provide a brighter and more distinct sound compared to traditional plastic picks. This enhanced tone can add depth and character to a player's sound, making their playing stand out.

Personal Style

Using cool guitar picks can also be a way for players to express their personal style and individuality. With a wide variety of designs and materials available, players can choose picks that reflect their personality and taste. This can add an extra level of enjoyment and satisfaction to playing the guitar.

In conclusion, using cool guitar picks can provide several benefits for guitar players. These picks can improve grip, increase comfort, enhance tone, and allow players to express their personal style.

Popular Brands of Cool Guitar Picks

When it comes to guitar picks, there are many different brands to choose from. Each brand has its own unique style and features that make it stand out from the others. Here are some of the most popular brands of cool guitar picks:

• Dunlop: Dunlop is one of the most well-known brands of guitar picks. They offer a wide range of picks in different materials, shapes, and thicknesses. Their Tortex picks are popular among guitarists for their durability and grip.
• Fender: Fender is another popular brand of guitar picks. They offer picks in a variety of materials, including celluloid, nylon, and tortoiseshell. Their picks are known for their bright, clear tone and smooth playing surface.
• Ernie Ball: Ernie Ball is a brand that is known for their high-quality guitar strings, but they also make guitar picks. Their picks are made from celluloid and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are known for their flexibility and smooth playing surface.
• Jim Dunlop: Jim Dunlop is the founder of Dunlop picks, but he also has his own line of picks. His picks are known for their unique designs and materials, such as the Primetone series, which is made from a combination of Ultex and nickel.
• Clayton: Clayton is a brand that is known for their custom guitar picks. They offer a wide range of materials, shapes, and thicknesses, and they can even print custom designs on the picks. Their picks are popular among guitarists who want a personalized touch.

Overall, there are many different brands of cool guitar picks to choose from. Each brand has its own unique features and benefits, so it's important to try out different picks to find the one that works best for you.

How to Care for Your Guitar Picks

Guitar picks are an essential tool for guitarists, and it is important to take care of them properly to ensure they last longer. Here are some tips on how to care for your guitar picks:

• Store your guitar picks in a case or container to protect them from dust, dirt, and other debris. This will also prevent them from getting lost or damaged.
• Avoid exposing your guitar picks to extreme temperatures or humidity, as this can cause them to warp or crack.
• Clean your guitar picks regularly with a soft cloth or microfiber towel to remove any dirt or grime. You can also use a mild soap solution to clean them if they are particularly dirty.
• Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as these can damage the surface of your guitar picks.
• If your guitar picks become worn or damaged, replace them with new ones. Using worn or damaged picks can affect the quality of your sound and cause damage to your guitar strings.

By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your guitar picks last longer and continue to provide you with great sound quality for your guitar playing.

Conclusion

In conclusion, guitar picks are an essential accessory for any guitar player. They come in various shapes, sizes, materials, and thicknesses, each with its unique sound and feel.

When choosing a guitar pick, it is essential to consider the type of music you play, your playing style, and personal preference. Some guitarists prefer thicker picks for a more robust and aggressive sound, while others prefer thinner picks for a more delicate and nuanced sound.

Guitar picks made of materials such as celluloid, nylon, and Delrin are popular among guitarists due to their durability, flexibility, and affordability. However, picks made of unconventional materials such as stone, wood, and metal are gaining popularity among guitarists who want to experiment with their sound.

It is also essential to note that guitar picks are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different guitarists prefer different picks, and there is no right or wrong choice. The best way to find the perfect pick for you is to experiment with different materials, shapes, and thicknesses until you find the one that feels right.

Overall, guitar picks are a small but essential part of a guitarist's toolkit. They can make a significant difference in the sound and feel of your playing, and choosing the right pick can enhance your playing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique materials used to make guitar picks?

Guitar picks can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, wood, bone, and even stone. Some unique materials used to make guitar picks include glass, carbon fiber, and recycled materials like old credit cards and CDs.

Which brand makes the best custom guitar picks?

There are many companies that make custom guitar picks, each with their own unique offerings. Some popular brands include Dunlop, Clayton, and PickWorld. The best brand for custom guitar picks ultimately depends on the individual's needs and preferences.

What are some popular designs for guitar picks?

Popular designs for guitar picks include plain colors, patterns, and images of bands or artists. Some picks also feature unique shapes and textures for added grip and control.

What are some factors to consider when choosing a guitar pick?

When choosing a guitar pick, factors to consider include the material, thickness, shape, and texture. The individual's playing style and genre of music should also be taken into account.

What are some good alternatives to traditional plastic guitar picks?

Good alternatives to traditional plastic guitar picks include metal picks, felt picks, and thumb picks. These alternatives can provide a different tone and feel for the player.

What are some tips for improving your guitar playing with different picks?

Experimenting with different picks can help improve a player's technique and sound. Thicker picks can provide more control, while thinner picks can create a brighter tone. It's important to find a pick that feels comfortable and allows for smooth playing.

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