I currenty use two types of capos – the Kyser one and Shubb capos. Both are the most popular capos around but have different strengths and weaknesses.

The benefits of the Kyser is that it is the quickest changing capo I’ve come across, doesn’t require tension adjustment, and can clip to the end of the headstock when not in use. The primary benefit of the Shubb is that it has adjustable tension (and second, it’s smaller).

The main drawback of the Kyser is the lack of adjustable tension. Because it’s designed to work across the fretboard, it will apply more force than necessary to clamp down the lower frets, causing frets to wear faster over time. Because of this I prefer to use the Kyser on my less expensive guitar and the Shubbs on the guitar I baby.

The Kyser capo is well designed. Normally “parked” on the head of my guitar, I can easily add, move or remove in 2 seconds. The unique feature of this capo is that you can flip it around, for example, cover the 3rd 4th and 5th strings on the second fret to convert it to an open E B A E B E tuning from a standard E B G D A E tuning. Very reliable and fun. Highly recommended.

I use capos a LOT, and this thing is an absolute dream…simply pinch and move…it’s that simple. My concern at first was that it would not properly hold down the strings, but that fear was eliminated as soon as I took it out of the package and popped it on…2 seconds flat. I have 2, which I have now been using for 4 years.

The only thing about these capos is that the rubber does break down somewhat, and the strings will leave an indentation in the rubber. It doesn’t seem to affect the pressure on the strings, however, and I have yet to replace one. At any rate, it would be absolutely worth it to have to frequently replace them if that were even the case because their ease of use is absolutely indispensable. Four years so far seems a very, very good run to me.