Chloe Zhang
Plastic guitar finger picks are a popular choice for guitarists, as they are usually cheaper than metal picks and can produce a sound that works with any song. They are also more versatile than metal picks, but they may not be as comfortable. Plastic picks come in various sizes, including small, medium, and large, and can be adjusted to fit your fingers by heating them in hot water and then shaping them. Some well-known brands that sell plastic finger picks include Jim Dunlop, Fender, and D'Addario.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Materials | Plastic, Metal (Nickel, Brass, Steel, Copper, German Silver), Nylon |
| Sound | Plastic: Mellow and warmer tone; Metal: Bright and crisp; Shell: Softer tone |
| Durability | Metal fingerpicks are more durable than plastic ones |
| Comfort | Metal fingerpicks are more comfortable than plastic ones |
| Cost | Metal fingerpicks are 2-3 times more expensive than plastic ones |
| Brands | Jim Dunlop, Fender, D'Addario, National, Fred Kelly, ProPik, Dr Sherpa, Alaska Pik, Perfect Touch, Steve Clayton |
| Sizing | Small, Medium, Large |
| Adjustability | Some fingerpicks are adjustable, while others can be shaped using hot water |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic picks need to be heated and shaped with water
Plastic guitar finger picks can be adjusted to fit your fingers by heating them and shaping them with water. This method softens the plastic, making it pliable enough to mould to your finger.
To do this, first, heat some water to a high temperature. The water should be hot but not boiling. You can heat the water on the stove or in an electric kettle. Once the water is hot, turn off the heat source and carefully pour it into a container.
Next, place the plastic finger pick into the hot water. Allow the pick to soak for a few seconds until it becomes soft and pliable. Be careful not to over-soak the pick, as it may become too soft and lose its shape.
Once the pick is soft enough, remove it from the water and gently pat it dry with a towel. Be careful not to burn yourself, as the water and pick may still be very hot. Now it's time to shape the pick. Quickly place the softened pick onto your finger, pressing and moulding it to fit your finger shape. Hold the pick in place until it cools down and hardens, maintaining its new shape.
If you don't have access to hot water, or if you prefer an alternative method, you can also use a microwave to heat the plastic finger pick. Place the pick on a microwave-safe plate and heat it for a few seconds. The plastic will heat up quickly, so be careful not to overheat it. Once the plastic is soft, remove it from the microwave and shape it onto your finger as described above.
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Metal picks are more durable but more expensive
When it comes to guitar finger picks, there are a variety of options available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. While plastic finger picks are commonly used and provide a versatile sound that can work with any song, metal finger picks offer distinct benefits that may be preferable for certain guitarists.
One of the most significant advantages of metal finger picks is their durability. Metal picks, made from materials like copper, brass, steel, and nickel, are known to last much longer than plastic picks. They are less fragile and can withstand extended periods of use without showing signs of wear and tear. For example, some guitarists have reported using the same set of metal picks for 15 years, with the picks still being in excellent condition.
In addition to durability, metal finger picks offer superior comfort and ease of shaping compared to plastic picks. Metal picks can be easily moulded and shaped to fit your finger size and desired position, resulting in a more comfortable playing experience. This adjustability allows for a customised fit, enhancing the overall comfort and playability of the picks.
However, one of the trade-offs of metal finger picks is their cost. Metal picks can be significantly more expensive than plastic ones, sometimes costing two to three times as much. High-end metal picks can range from $20 to $30 per pick, which is a substantial increase compared to the average price of plastic picks.
Despite the higher price tag, some guitarists believe that the durability of metal picks compensates for the initial investment. Metal picks' longevity means that you may not need to replace them as frequently as plastic picks, potentially saving money in the long run. Ultimately, the decision between metal and plastic finger picks depends on individual preferences, playing style, and budget considerations.
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Plastic picks are more versatile but less comfortable
Plastic guitar finger picks are a popular choice for guitarists due to their versatility and affordability. They are known for producing a well-rounded, balanced sound that can work with any song or playing style. Unlike metal finger picks, which tend to have a brighter and harsher tone, plastic picks offer a warmer and more flexible sound. This makes them a good option for those seeking a mellow and organic playing experience.
However, one of the main drawbacks of plastic finger picks is their lack of comfort compared to other materials. While they are flexible, the non-adjustable nature of plastic picks means that manufacturers often make them smaller, requiring the player's fingers to squeeze in. This can lead to an uncomfortable playing experience, especially for those with larger fingers. Additionally, the flexibility of plastic picks may not provide the same level of durability and protection as metal picks, which can last longer and feel sturdier.
To address the sizing issue with plastic finger picks, some manufacturers offer different size options, such as small, medium, and large. It is important to refer to size guides and user reviews when purchasing plastic finger picks to ensure a comfortable fit. Another solution is to heat the plastic picks in hot water and then shape them to your fingers. This method takes advantage of the pliable nature of plastic when heated, allowing for a customised fit.
While plastic finger picks may not offer the same level of comfort as metal picks, they excel in versatility and value for money. With a wide range of options available from brands like Jim Dunlop, Fender, and D'Addario, plastic picks are a popular choice for guitarists looking for a balanced sound without breaking the bank. However, it is important to prioritise comfort to ensure an enjoyable and effortless playing experience.
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Metal picks are adjustable and easy to shape
Metal finger picks are highly adjustable and can be shaped with ease to fit your finger size and desired position. They are also highly durable and will last a lot longer than plastic picks. Metal fingerpicks are usually made of copper, brass, or steel, but nickel is also a common material used. The Dunlop Nickel is a classic example of a metal finger pick that can be moulded easily to fit your finger size.
Metal finger picks are often adjustable to different sizes, typically small, medium, and large. They can be shaped by bending the metal collar to form a snug fit. This adjustability allows manufacturers to be more creative with their designs. Metal picks are also more comfortable than plastic picks, which can feel more numb due to the barrier between the finger and the strings.
Some metal finger picks, such as the National Finger Picks, come with thumb picks made from ABS thermoplastic, which provides a warmer feel and sound. This combination gives brightness and punch from the fingers, while the thumb provides a softer warmth. The Fred Kelly pick is another example of a metal finger pick that provides a comfortable fit and a softer tone.
While metal finger picks can be more expensive than plastic ones, their durability means they can last much longer. Metal picks also provide a brighter sound than plastic picks, which tend to produce a more well-rounded, middle sound. Metal picks are ideal for those seeking a bright, crisp attack in their playing.
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Plastic picks are cheaper and warmer in tone
Plastic guitar finger picks are generally cheaper than their metal counterparts, with plastic picks usually costing around $5-7 per set, while metal picks can cost $20-30 per pick. Metal finger picks are more durable and easier to shape than plastic ones, but plastic picks are more versatile and produce a warmer tone.
Plastic picks, such as the Dunlop plastic finger picks, have a traditional shape and produce a \"just-in-the-middle\" sound that can work with any song. Metal picks, on the other hand, tend to have a brighter and harsher sound. If you prefer a warmer and mellower tone, plastic picks are a better option.
The flexibility of plastic picks, compared to metal picks like the Dunlop Nickels, gives them a more \"organic\" and \"natural\" feel. For example, the National finger picks, which are made of stainless steel, come with thumb picks made from ABS thermoplastic, which has a warmer feel and sound. This combination provides brightness and punch from the fingers, along with softer warmth from the thumb.
Additionally, plastic thumb and finger picks can be customised to fit your fingers by heating them in hot water. This softens the plastic, making it pliable and allowing you to shape it to your finger size. This trick is commonly recommended for plastic picks and can enhance the playing experience by providing a comfortable fit.
Overall, plastic guitar finger picks offer a cost-effective option with a warmer and more versatile tone compared to metal picks. They can be shaped to your fingers using hot water, providing a custom and comfortable playing experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic finger picks are typically available in Small, Medium, and Large sizes. You can also adjust the size by heating them in hot water and shaping them to your fingers.
Some common plastic finger picks are made by Jim Dunlop, Fender, and D'Addario.
Plastic finger picks are more versatile than metal ones and are cheaper, but they lack the comfort and durability of metal picks. Metal finger picks are also easier to shape.
You can heat your plastic finger picks in hot water and then shape them to your fingers. Run them under cold water to set the shape.
Some users have reported that plastic finger picks can be uncomfortable and difficult to get to fit properly.
