How Do Capos Work?
Updated Nov 12, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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A capo is a clamp that presses all the strings down against a fret. It shortens the part of each string that vibrates, so the open strings sound higher. The strings stay in tune with each other, and the player frets notes above the capo as before.
Clip the capo just behind a fret
Squeeze the capo open, set it across the strings just behind the fret wire, and let it close. The pad presses the strings against the fret, and the strings ring from the capo instead of the nut. Put it close to the fret so the strings stay clear, and check that each string rings when you pluck it.
Move it to change the pitch
Slide the capo toward the body to raise the pitch and toward the headstock to lower it. Each fret you pass raises the open strings by the same amount, so the guitar stays in tune with itself. Release the clamp, move the capo, and let it close again behind the new fret.
Keep the pressure even across the strings
A capo that presses harder on one side can pull some strings sharp while others stay in tune. Set it straight across the fretboard so the pad meets every string, and listen for buzz or a string that sounds muted. If a string buzzes, move the capo closer to the fret or adjust the clamp until the string rings clear.
Take it off when you finish
Squeeze the capo open and lift it off the strings when you no longer need it. With the capo off, the open strings sound at their normal pitch again. Clip it to the headstock or set it aside so it is there the next time you play.
What you need
TANMUS Guitar Capo 3in1 Metal Capo for Acoustic&Electric
A 3-in-1 capo with a pick holder, a pin puller and 4 picks, plus a 90-day warranty, for acoustic and electric guitar, ukulele, mandolin and banjo.
- Pick holder
- 90-day warranty stated
Sound harbor Guitar Capo 2 Pack Capo Guitar Clamp
A 2-pack of aluminum alloy capos with silicone pads, made for acoustic and electric guitar, ukulele, banjo, bass and mandolin, that release and reposition with one hand.
IMUSGO Guitar Capo
A spring-loaded 6-string capo for acoustic and electric guitar, ukulele, banjo, bass and mandolin, with a silicone pad that protects the neck and gives even pressure on the fingerboard.
- Capo type: Spring-Loaded
WOGOD Capo 2Pack Guitar Capo for Acoustic Electric
A 2-pack of zinc alloy capos with silicone pads for acoustic and electric guitar and ukulele, with a strong spring and balanced pressure for a clear tone without buzz.
These come from our ranked list Best Capo, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Does a capo change the tuning of the guitar?
No. A capo raises the pitch of the open strings, and the strings stay in tune with each other. You still tune the guitar the same way, with the capo on or off.
Where do you put a capo on the neck?
Just behind the fret you want to play from, close enough that the strings ring clear. If a string buzzes or sounds muted, move the capo closer to the fret wire.
Can you leave a capo on the guitar?
Take it off when you finish playing. With the capo off, the open strings sound at their normal pitch, and the neck carries no extra pressure.
Do capos fit every guitar?
No. Capos come in shapes for different necks, and the fit decides whether the pad presses every string evenly. Check the fit on your own instrument before you rely on it.
Ranked capos lists
More how-to guides
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