What would you do if we would tell you that there is an easy way to perform some song you were trying to play on your Ukulele by ear?
Hold this capo with you, and we’ll tell you more about all the benefits of utilizing the Capo accessory on your Ukulele.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Ukulele Capos
- OUR TOP PICK: Planet Waves PW-CP-12 NS Capo Pro
- RUNNER-UP: GUITARX X3
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: TANMUS 3in1 Capo
Table of Contents
- What is a Ukulele Capo?
- What Does a Capo Do on a Ukulele?
- When Would I Use Ukulele Capos?
- Are All Ukulele Capos The Same?
- Comparison of the Best Ukulele Capos
- Review of the Best Ukulele Capos
- How Do I Choose a Capo For Ukulele?
- Ukulele Capo vs. Guitar Capo - Comparison Overview
- How to Use a Capo on Ukulele
What is a Ukulele Capo?
The word Capo is an abbreviation of the Italian word capotasto which literally means nut. The short version also refers to “head”.
In terms of Ukulele tools, the term Capo could be described as the marker of the “beginning” or “start”.
What Does a Capo Do on a Ukulele?
Ukulele capo is a small piece of metal accessory with a spring mechanism that you can put on any fret and shorten the length of the strings. By shortening the length, you’re altering the pitch. Based on the fret you set the Capo different note will be heard when you play an open string.
So, for example, if you hit the 4th (top) string without pressing any fret, you will hear the note G. Once you press the first fret you will get the note G#. Instead of pressing it with your hand, you can also set the capo on the 1st fret and get the same result.
Having Capo may come handy if you have both male and female singers that you work with. Instead of adjusting the chord shape to match their pitch, place a Capo at the dedicated fret, and memorize the chord grips instead of chord names.
When Would I Use Ukulele Capos?
While some may call using Ukulele Capo cheating, there are some very reasonable situations and purposes for applying Capo to your performances:
Transposing
Let’s say you have learned a song but your singer tells you to play it in a different key.
If you’re an experienced player you will know how to transpose on the fly. But, you can also use a Capo instead - imagine that the Capo is a place where your neck starts and play the same chord shapes as before.
The same applies if you want to play along with any guitar instrument. Just set the Capo at 4th fret.
But, for practicing purposes, try to play in the new key without using a Capo at home.
Open Strings
Some song parts require if you let the strings ring. But, if you have to transpose it, you will lose those open string positions.
Setting a Capo at a specific fret position will help you maintain such playing options.
Experimental Tunings
This might be an advanced technique, but you don’t have to set the capo on all strings. You can put it that way so it holds 3 or fewer strings and creates a unique tuning without returning your instrument.
Are All Ukulele Capos The Same?
All Ukulele Capos serve the same purpose, just like guitar capos and this is to shift your original instrument tuning. But, apart from that, they may vary in the design they are using, shape, and the size or additional features such as pick holders.
Some may also look very different while being the same model type in general and others will stand out because they were made out of premium material instead of plain colored plastics.
Also, some Capos are made out of high-grade aluminum so there is less chance for breaking them so easily. And of course, there are special Capos made exactly for Ukulele.
Comparison of the Best Ukulele Capos
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Review of the Best Ukulele Capos
These are the best Capos for Ukulele we have found on the market:
Best Overall:
Planet Waves PW-CP-12 NS Capo Pro
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It has been reported that it works on all Ukulele models perfectly. They all say that it works great even without a reinforcement neck. The build quality is praised, and it has been reported to be very easy to use and it can be changed in a matter of 2-3 seconds.
Why it Stands Out to Us
These are rare situations where aircraft and musical instruments have something in common and that is the aluminum used for making this Capo. It’s different and incredibly lightweight specifically designed for Ukulele instruments so that you can doze the pressure on the fretboard in most details.
It can be easily adjusted in micrometer steps so it guarantees buzz-free and in-tune performance when used on any fret. It supports all the standard-sized necks from either Soprano, Concert, Tenor, or baritone ukulele.
However, if you would like to use this type of Capo on your guitars, you will have to buy a completely different product.
Bottom Line
There are few Capos made just for Ukulele and Planet Waves maintained its reputation with this model. It won’t get in front of the hand and the micrometer steps will ensure that you can alter the pitch without harming the instrument.
Runner-up:
GUITARX X3
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
They comment on its high build quality and they especially praise the curved side on the back of the Capo as it will protect the wearing a little bit more.
But based on the strings that you’re using, the sprint may be too strong and can slightly shift your strings out of tune.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This capo was made from aluminum alloy with a spring system that will memorize the tension used on an instrument, so no accidental fret buzzes or scratches will occur and you can easily shift it to any fret you want during the song.
It’s also worth mentioning that you can get the same Capo in four different colors - gold, silver, black, and metal blue. This way, Guitarx X3 will match your instrument appearance.
If there is any need, their customer support seems to be responsive and while it’s not written anywhere, they actually offer an unconditional lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line
Guitar X3 is a slightly more expensive Capo with the excellent build quality. But it justifies its price as you can use it not just on Ukulele but many other string instruments except for classical guitar.
Best for the Money:
TANMUS 3 in1 Capo
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the bad reviews we found out complained about spring being weak. But, as it can be used on any acoustic instrument, those negative reviews came from acoustic guitars. This means that for Ukulele performance it will work properly as its neck is much thinner and strings aren’t so stiff.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Main parts of this Zinc metal Capo are supported with durable steel springs and are layered silica gel layer protection on the inside so that your Ukulele won’t be harmed. Carefully tuned to ensure reliable performance and safe Instrument protection.
We also like the additional features it provides you with, such as a pick holder on the top and a pin puller on the bottom which may come handy if you have a guitar.
It’s available in black, white, and bronze color and it will provide you with the additional carrying bag and picks of 3 different thicknesses.
Bottom Line
If you’re uncertain that you need Capo and would like to try it out, this Zinc metal spring model will demonstrate what Capo can do for your performance at a very reasonable price which you may hold as a spare later if you like the concept.
Best Wooden Ukulele Capo:
WINGO Quick Change Wooden Guitar Capo
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
They report it looks amazing and exactly like on the photos and it seems to be durable as well. They were buying this model only to try it out but it appears that it works well enough so they don’t need to look for an upgrade.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Wooden design is something you will notice first. It may fit your Ukulele appearance much better and will look almost like a standard part of any vintage reddish Mahogany model.
Grip is strong and powered by an aluminum alloy locking mechanism which is hidden pretty well in the wooden interior so it doesn’t spoil the overall design at all. And in case you may need to change the position during the song you can do it quickly with a single hand.
And we may say that the gift pick necklace may be nice at least as a gift for those who like to wear such things.
Bottom Line
If you’re all about details and think that metal Capo doesn’t fit the look of your instrument, Wingo has a wooden Capo for you that works accurately and might be exactly what you were looking for.
Best Mini Ukulele Capo:
Ukulele Capo Mini Size 4 String
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
It has a professional build quality and users comment that this is exactly what they were looking for. Those who have tried many say that it’s the only one that feels like it was made for a Ukulele instrument.
But, bear in mind that some Baritones may not fit in so well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Capo is made in mini size just for Ukulele instruments. The clamps are smaller and more suitable for the neck of the regular Ukulele, with Soprano models especially in mind so it won’t look awkward when you put it on frets.
The spring tension has been adjusted to match the nylon string tension. It can be easily set and removed with a single hand.
It’s made from metal with a plain Matte finish which seems to match even those Ukuleles with High Gloss finish. Color options are versatile as you can pick between Black, Gold, Silver, and darker Red.
Bottom Line
Most Capos on the market are universal and may not fit your soprano ukulele so good. That’s why you will appreciate having this Mini Size Ukulele Capo
Best Metal Ukulele Capo:
wuxic Shark Capo Tone Clip
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People say that kids are thrilled with this gift and that they started to play their Ukulele a lot more just because of this small add-on. It’s easy to put on and off, provides equal tension on all strings and it doesn’t harm your fretboard at all.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This Capo is one of the most unique models we’ve found on the market. It’s made in the shape of the shark with a High Gloss finish and it’s available in 5 different colors - gold, red gold, black, silver, and gray with a convenient Cashmere pouch.
It’s universal in size, so, any acoustic instrument with a neck width up to 2.125 inches will work and not just Ukulele.
It weighs only 0.18 pounds and it’s made of durable Zinc Alloy and uses a Memory Steel spring to provide a firm and equal grip which will prevent fret buzzing.
Bottom Line
Capos don’t have to look boring and Wuxic Shark Capo is an excellent example to our point. The shark theme will come naturally to Ukulele, especially for kids. We believe they will go over the top if you combine this Capo with Makala Shark Bridge.
Editor's Pick:
Kyser Hawaiian Lei Quick-Change Capo
No products found.
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users bought this because of how it looks and didn’t have any complaints regarding performance.
The only complaint we found is that it doesn’t come with a blue & green theme as they did for guitar Capo. But, if you like that one, you can use it on Ukulele, too.
Why it Stands Out to Us
If you look at it, you will understand how different it looks from the rest of the competition and it provides you with three different island-themed styles - Hawaiian Lee (orange), Pastel Hibiscus (white-coral), and Red Hibiscus. Trust us, it looks even better in real life.
It’s a Capo specially made just for Ukulele with a smaller and lightweight body including much lighter tension from aluminum springs so it matches Ukulele nylon strings and you can set it on your headstock while not in use.
And the best of all, it’s USA-made and provides you with a lifetime warranty.
Bottom Line
Most Ukulele Capos are plain-colored, but not this one. Spec-wise it will do as good as any other, but if you’re looking to buy something different for a change we believe that Kyser Capos will be the right choice for you.
How Do I Choose a Capo For Ukulele?
As all Capos simply work or doesn’t work here are some thoughts about what you could think of before buying:
Protection Layer
Silica gel will be always welcomed on the inside parts. It will provide you with the additional layer of protection to your fretboard.
Operation
If you would like to move the capo during your performance, consider models that can be operated with one hand. Those are more practical so you can even learn how to change a position while playing.
Tuning
Some cheaper ukuleles may grip a string too hard which will result in shifting your setup out of tune a little bit. It won’t be so audible like you were playing a wrong note, but you will have a constant feeling something is not “right”.
Size
If you have a Soprano Ukulele, some Capos may look too big. Luckily, there are Mini Capos made exactly for instruments like yours.
Appearance
As very little things can go wrong with Capo, you can simply pick the one that you like the most. There are various models out there, some Ukulele Capos will even provide you a coral pattern of the Island landscape, so it’s only up to you to pick like you would pick your favorite cake.
Ukulele Capo vs. Guitar Capo - Comparison Overview
Generally speaking, nothing stops you from using a guitar capo on your Ukulele. It will work properly most of the time, though it may look huge on a Soprano or concert ukulele and might be a little bit awkward if you plan to perform with such a huge accessory on your neck. Needless to say, it will make your Ukulele feel a bit heavier. That’s why we recommend you find at least some compact Guitar Capo for such purpose.
But, the thing that matters is related to the spring system and the grip. Guitars use different strings so the spring is optimized to provide higher tension. Such tension might be an overkill for your Ukulele and may cause the strings to shift out of tune. Also, as it is made for 6-string models, Guitar Capo is also heavier. But, unless you squeeze your Capo too tight the chance of harming your strings or making a mark on your woodwork are minimal.
On the other hand, Ukulele Capo has limited use on other instruments as it was made for 4-string instruments only. Grip is mostly suitable for nylon strings, so it may work ideally for steel-string instruments.
How to Use a Capo on Ukulele
Capo allows you to play the same chord shape for different keys. In case you don’t have a capo for Ukulele, you can use other Capos as well.
Let’s say you have trouble with playing an E-major chord. Capo may help you with this issue so push the handles so that the clamp is wide open and place the long end on the strings right behind your fret, let's say behind D fret. Now, if you want to play an E-major, try and reach the shape of the D-major chord and you’ll notice that it sounds exactly as if you were playing E-major.
This way you may use the same chords you’re used to but at different tuning. Or, let’s say you want to try that D tune setup and see how it goes for you - all you have to do is to put the Capo on the 2nd fret and play as usual. If you have a female singer, this tuning may come handier as they may not reach all the lower notes while you play from standard C tuning,
For more explanations, check the video below - it will describe you in details what we have told you right now:
Conclusion
Hopefully the next time you’re going to read the chords on some website of the song you’re about to play, you will have a small grin when you see Capo 4th fret before any chord. That will definitely tell you those tabs were written by Ukulele players.
People Also Ask
Capo is a pretty basic accessory that seems to be quite intuitive on how to apply it. But, let’s solve some technical aspects first and then break the misbeliefs about Guitar Capos. We will also show you some handy tricks on how you can turn any guitar into Ukulele:
How Can I Make My Capo Tighter?
Based on the model there are certain limitations on how tight you can pull them. But, you can always try to tighten the nuts around the spring a little bit more, but be careful with it as tightening too much may break your Capo.
How Much is a Ukulele Capo?
Capos are not so expensive and they can be found starting from $6. Professional models can go even above $20 and they excel in build quality and may provide you additional features such as pick holder slot or wider grip so it can be used on other string instruments too.
Can You Use a Guitar Capo For a Ukulele?
Sure. Some models may not look the ideal for your live Ukulele performance as it may look odd on a small Ukulele neck format and perhaps some Capos will provide a too strong tension to your Ukulele strings, but in most situations, any Guitar Capo should be useful for your Ukulele.
How to Turn a Guitar Into a Ukulele With a Capo
If you would like to see what it is like to play the Ukulele without buying one, put your capo on the first (bottom) four strings at 5th fret and you will get an exact tuning of the Ukulele instrument. May come really handy if you want to play along with some Ukulele song.
Is Capo Bad For Ukulele?
There is a chance of damaging your fretboard if you set Capo too tight, but as Capo is mostly layered with silica gel on the inside, it will be hard to do it. Besides that, there are no other worries about using a Capo on the Ukulele.
