There are a lot of guitar accessories on the market, and it can be tough to figure out which ones are best for you.
It can also be tough to figure out which ones are actually needed.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the best guitar accessories for beginners and then intermediate/advanced players.
Then we will take a different approach and chat about the accessories that you don’t need to spend your money on.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, there’s sure to be something here for you!
Best Guitar Accessories for Beginners
Here are our top picks for beginner guitar players.
Snark ST-8 Super Tight Clip On Tuner
After the purchase of my first guitar, I next got a tuner.
There is nothing more frustrating than learning how to play but not being able to tune your guitar!
If you’re looking for an accurate, reliable clip on tuner that’s easy to use, look no further than the Snark ST-8 Super Tight Clip-On Tuner.
This newly redesigned tuner features a processing chip and pitch calibration for unparalleled accuracy, making it perfect for any instrument.
The bright display and 360 swivel head make it easy to tune at any angle, while the gripped clip ensures a tight, secure fit.
ERNIE BALL REGULAR SLINKY NICKEL WOUND ELECTRIC GUITAR STRING SETS – 3 PACK
These are my absolute favorite set of strings and what I use on my electric guitars.
These top-selling Ernie Ball electric guitar strings are favored by musicians around the globe for their precision manufacturing, optimum performance, and long lifespan.
Made from pure nickel-plated steel wire wrapped around a hex-shaped steel core wire, the Regular Ernie Ball Slinky strings produce a stable tone that will make your guitar sing.
They are made of specially tempered tin plated high carbon steel, ensuring consistency and quality sound.
Elixir Strings 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
If you have an acoustic guitar, then I highly suggest these.
Made of 80% Copper & 20% Zinc, Elixir Strings provide you with one of the brightest tones on the market without sacrificing playability so that you can enjoy all day long.
These strings have a never-before-seen patented coating technology so they stand up to pH changes, sweat, and humidity giving you even more peace of mind.
Wear these long enough and they will break in and feel like an extension of yourself!
Designed with Eco-Friendly Bronze Wrap Wire, these acoustic guitar strings provide an expressive, vibrant tone that has a crisp “acoustic” feel.
Fender Premium Picks Sampler
No surprise here that you will need a bunch of picks!
Made from celluloid, the premier pick material, these picks offer a warm, round music tone.
The “go-to” pick for many professional artists, the Fender Premium Picks Sampler comes with Thin, Medium, and Heavy Gauges in many different styles and colors to match your specific playing needs.
So try them all and find the perfect pick for you!
GLS Audio Instrument Cable
You’re going to also need some solid guitar cables as well.
The GLS Audio Instrument Guitar Cable is the perfect choice for any musician looking for a reliable, high-quality audio cable.
This oxygen-free copper cable is built to last, with a flexible design that prevents twists and tangles.
The premium quality 1/4″ tips provide maximum isolation and low capacitance, while the braided tweed cloth jacket adds durability.
D’Addario Auto Lock Guitar Strap
It’s always helpful to have strap locks in case you are clumsy like me.
The D’Addario Auto Lock Guitar Strap is the perfect way to keep your guitar safe and secure during performances.
The simple integrative quick-release guitar strap locking system is designed to fit securely on your guitar’s existing end pins, eliminating the need to change the hardware on your guitar.
No extra parts, no installing hardware.
The spring-loaded latch automatically clamps down on the strap button and will not release unless desired, making it easy to use.
Amazon Basics Guitar Folding A-Frame Stand
You are going to want to display your new guitar on a reliable guitar stand for all to see.
This stand features three adjustable-width settings to fit most guitar shapes, plus soft foam arms and back rest to protect your instrument.
Plus, it folds flat for easy transport and storage. Rubber feet keep it firmly in place, so you can rock out with peace of mind.
Electric Guitar Bag Padded Electric Guitar Gig Bag
For your electric guitar, you will need a nice padded gig bag.
This gig bag is made from durable grey nylon weave material with contrasting blue zippers and features 0.35in thick padded lining throughout to protect your guitar from accidents and light travel damage.
The backpack-style shoulder straps and padded carry handle make it easy and comfortable to transport your guitar, while the stylish design is sure to turn heads.
Order yours today and hit the road in style!
Acoustic Guitar Backpack
Here’s a cool bag for your acoustic guitar.
These gig bags feature thicker padding and a larger front pocket than the previous version, making it really worth the price.
The soft gig bag has a waterproof oxford cloth exterior and dual adjustable shoulder straps + three handles for convenience.
Plus, the new back hanger loop lets you hang the gig bag on the wall for decoration.
There are also two exterior pouches – one on the front body and one on the neck – which can fit sheet music, documents, music books, and accessories such as pedals, adapters, guitar cables, and tuners.
VOX AP2AC amPlug 2 AC30
There are many small guitar amps out there but this little guy is just tons of find for new guitarists.
This amazing little amp provides three different modes, each with its own distinct sound.
The AC30 mode offers the use of a tremolo circuit, as well as nine selectable effects with three types of Chorus, Delay, and Reverb.
The foldable plug mechanism rotates 180 degrees and there’s an auto power-off function that makes it super convenient and easy to use.
Plus, there’s an AUX input so you can jam along with any audio player.
Fender Champion 20 Watt Electric Guitar Amp
If you have some money set aside to spend on a bigger guitar amp, then this one may be one to look at.
The Fender Champion 20 Watt Electric Guitar Amp is a great way to shape your sound.
With the EQ section, you can control the bass and treble to get the perfect sound. You can also dial in lush effects like digital reverbs, chorus, vibratone, and delay.
If you want to jam along with your favorite tracks, simply plug your MP3 player into the auxiliary input and you’ll be part of the band in no time.
And if you need to practice privately, just use the 1/8 headphone output jack to mute the speaker output.
With 17 different amp models to choose from, you can find the perfect sound for any genre of music and your guitar.
Sheet Music Stand
If you are like me and are learning off of sheets and guitar books, then you will need a music stand.
This heavy-duty sheet music stand is perfect for any musician.
It is extendable and adjustable to accommodate both sitting and standing positions.
The 2-inch deep tray can hold any kind of sheet music or book, and the metal spring arm extensions keep everything securely in place.
The wider footprint and sturdy tripod base provide a steadier footing, and the rubber-coated tripod feet grip the floor firmly.
The stand can withstand weight up to 12 pounds and can be tilted up to 180 degrees for easy viewing by users of any height.
With easy-to-use knobs for making fine tilt adjustments, this versatile stand can support more than just sheets of music.
If you’d like to find out more about Guitar Books and theory books, check out our post here: Best Guitar Theory Books.
Jim Dunlop Pick Holder
You’ll need a good pick holder and this one is great to have on the back of your guitar’s neck.
Made from tough plastic, this holder can take a beating and keep your picks firmly in place.
The spring-loaded design means you’ll always have a pick on hand when you need it, while the adhesive strip lets you mount the holder almost anywhere.
Whether you’re a gigging musician or a bedroom rocker, the Jim Dunlop Guitar Pick Holder is a must-have accessory!
Jim Dunlop Body & Fingerboard Cleaning Kit
To keep your guitar nice and clear, this cleaning kit will do the trick.
The body and fingerboard cleaner is a non-abrasive, alcohol-free formula that safely removes dirt, grime, and fingerprints.
The microfiber cloth is perfect for dusting off the guitar after cleaning.
To keep your strings clean and bright, the string cleaner will remove all the gunk build-up without leaving any residue.
Just spray it on and wipe it off!
Jim Dunlop String Cutter
A solid string cutter is essential when changing your guitar strings.
This handheld cutter can quickly and easily cut through any type of string, whether it’s thin guitar strings or thick bass strings.
Plus, it’s small and lightweight so you can easily take it with you on the go.
The Jim Dunlop String Cutter is the perfect tool for any musician.
Whether you’re a beginner who is just starting to restring your instrument or a seasoned professional who changes strings frequently, this string cutter will make your life easier.
It’s also great for on-the-spot string changes during gigs or rehearsals. So don’t be caught without a string cutter again.
Best Guitar Accessories for Intermediate to Experienced Players
Now let’s transition to the accessories that more intermediate and experienced players may want to look at.
Guitar Capo with Pick Holder
Some beginners may want to experiment with a capo, however in my experience that just added more confusion when I was a beginner.
Again, that is just my experience.
This compact guitar capo is designed for easier playing and includes a 360°clamping pick holder.
The lightweight balanced design won’t shake off and is made of durable high-resilience steel springs and silica.
The uniform brushed spray provides a comfortable grip feel and beautiful luster color. Get the Guitar Capo with Pick Holder today and make your life easier!
Donner Guitar Foot Stool
Footstools can be used early, I just don’t feel they are necessary at the beginner level.
The Donner Guitar Foot Stool is a great way to get the most out of your guitar playing.
With its adjustable height and flexible design, you can easily find the perfect position for your needs.
The stool also features rubber end caps and a non-slip rubber pad for excellent stability, ensuring that your guitar playing experience is top-notch.
When you’re done playing, the stool easily folds flat for convenient storage or travel.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, the Donner Guitar Foot Stool is a great addition to your gear.
Orange Amps Amplifier
As your playing progresses and you want to upgrade your guitar amp, Orange is without a doubt something you should look at.
This 35-watt guitar amp is packed with features that will take your playing to the next level.
With two channels and a built-in digital reverb, you’ll be able to get the perfect tone for any situation.
The Speaker is a 1×10 inches Orange Voice of the World, which is known for its amazing quality.
The controls are easy to use and include a 3-band EQ, volume, gain, and reverb. You won’t be disappointed with the Orange Amps Amplifier.
Schaller Guitar Strap Locks
As you start booking gigs or playing open mics, strat locks will come in handy to protect your guitar.
These new locks are revolutionizing the guitar world with their silent, one-piece design.
Made of hardened steel, these strap buttons are perfect for any guitar lover.
The unique Lock-Wheel features a 3-step security function that is sure to keep your guitar safe.
So rest easy knowing that your guitar is in good hands with the Schaller Guitar Strap Locks.
Dunlop Blues Bottle Guitar Slide
As you develop into your own, a slide is an option.
Especially if you love playing the blues.
If you are looking for that original blues sound, then you need the Dunlop Blues Bottle Guitar Slide.
This slide is made of hand-blown Pyrex glass, which gives it a rich, full tone.
Plus, it’s built to last with its heavy wall thickness and durable construction.
So if you’re serious about getting that classic blues tone, pick up the Dunlop Blues Bottle Guitar Slide today!
Interested in learning about the top acoustic guitars for blues, check out this article here: Best Blues Acoustic Guitar.
Ernie Ball Musician’s Tool Kit
As you get more familiar with your guitar, then a good tool kit will come in handy.
This all-in-one set comes with everything you need to clean, polish, and adjust your instruments, including a string cutter, microfiber cloth, Wonder Wipes, ruler, peg winder, and a variety of hex wrenches and screwdrivers.
The included string cutter and peg winder make changing strings a breeze, while the microfiber polish cloth and Wonder Wipes keep your instrument looking new.
The hex wrenches and 6-in-1 screwdriver are perfect for making adjustments on the go, and the stainless steel ruler ensures precise measurements.
Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal
Many will want a pedal early on and I get that. If you want one, by all means, get one.
However, the first amp you get will more than likely have a foot switch. That switch will allow you to go between channels on the amp.
So you can change up your sound early on while learning.
This BOSS pedal is pretty awesome though.
This pedal is designed to reproduce the dynamics of your playing, from soft to hard.
And with the distortion, level, and tone controls, you can tailor the overall tonality to your liking.
So whether you’re looking to create some subtle background textures or go for all-out sonic mayhem, the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal has you covered!
Donner Guitar Effects Pedal Board
As you add more pedals to your collection, you can get a pedalboard to showcase them when you play.
The Donner Guitar Effects Pedal Board was designed with the musician in mind.
No more fumbling around with loose cables and plugs – this board has everything you need to keep your gear organized and safe.
The solid straps make it easy to carry, and the ample storage space is perfect for keeping all your accessories close at hand.
The tough fabric protects against scratches and impacts, so you can focus on your performance instead of worrying about your gear.
OneOdio A70 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones
When you’re jamming out, a good pair of headphones will be great so the people you live with do not get annoyed.
You’ll experience extreme comfort with the soft-to-the-touch earcups.
You can set up your Bluetooth and listen to your tunes through the audio cable.
These headphones will let you hear the bass clearly along with bright mids and highs.
A great feature of these headphones is that you can connect two devices and have music transmitted to each ear at the same time.
If you need to take these headphones anywhere, they fold for super easy carrying and storage.
D’Addario String Winder
If you chose not to get the entire tool kit, then you can just get a string winder.
The D’Addario String Winder is the perfect tool for changing strings quickly and easily.
With its built-in clippers, bridge pin puller, and peg winder, this all-in-one restringing tool makes string changes a breeze.
The hardened steel clippers on the Pro-Winder String Cutter cleanly cut through old strings and trim the excess off new strings.
The integrated bridge pin puller is designed specifically for acoustic guitarists.
As a beginner, I learned to change the strings without any tools. I waited till I knew the instrument more before getting a sidewinder.
If you want more information on how to change your guitar strings, check out our article here: How to Change Your Acoustic Guitar Strings.
Worst Guitar Accessories for All Types of Players
A little strange to be highlighting the worst guitar accessories.
However, with so many products out there and the rising cost of everything we want to make sure you are not wasting your money.
Guitar Pitch Pipe
I remember being 14 and getting my first acoustic guitar.
One of the first guitar accessories I purchased was a guitar pitch pipe.
When you are unfamiliar with the sounds of the strings, having this little pipe to try to tune your guitar just leads to a whole world of aggravation.
Half of the notes were pitchy and the others were too sharp.
You can barely hear the D so you have to sit and hope for the best.
That best just meant my guitar was out of tune more often than not.
Save your money and spend it on a digital guitar tuner.
Guitar Pick Punch
Where do I begin with the guitar pick punch?
When I first stumbled upon this, I said to myself “How cool, you can make your very own guitar picks.”
The cool part of this is that you can make guitar picks. The downside is that you can make guitar picks!!!!!
The supplies that these kits come with are flimsy.
If you happen to have a credit card and decide to use that to make picks, you will have nothing but rough edges.
This has led to multiple broken strings.
You would be better off just buying a pack of guitar picks because the ones you make are not going to be good.
Silicone Guitar Finger Tip Protectors
Rubber fingertip protectors that restrict your playing.
Not ideal for something that is not supposed to be confined.
Forget that the size is hard to fit comfortably especially if you have bigger fingers, these just obstruct the use of your fingers.
Are All Of These Guitar Accessories Essential?
When it comes to the best guitar accessories, there are a few essential items that all guitarists should have.
These include a guitar strap, a tuner, and guitar picks.
A guitar strap is essential for keeping your guitar in place while you play, and a tuner is necessary for making sure your guitar is in tune.
Picks are obviously important for strumming and picking the strings.
While these three guitar accessories are essential, there are also many other guitar accessories that you may find useful.
These include cases and gig bags, capos, tool kits and more.
Conclusion
Guitar accessories can be a great way to personalize your guitar and help you to play your best.
However, with so many options available, it can be tough to know which ones are worth the investment.
If you’re not sure where to start, we’ve put together a list of the best and worst guitar accessories for every type of player.
The list of what’s needed as a beginner guitarist is strictly my personal opinion and what I found helpful when I was just starting.
As my playing progressed and I started playing with other musicians and eventually joined a band, the list above is what I felt was essential.
Of course, everyone is going to find that they have different needs.
The “worst” guitar accessories I hope that everyone found to be helpful.
They were not mentioned to cause fans of these products to get upset.
These were just my personal experiences with them and if I can save you money on this journey then all the better.
Please feel free to share this article with anyone you think may find it helpful.
Do you have any suggestions for acoustic or electric guitar accessories that should have been covered?
Let me know in the comments below.
Thank you for reading and remember to always HAVE FUN!
Don’t Forget to Check Out These Resources
Best Guitar Capo For Acoustic and Electric. Check out this article to see our top picks for Capos for both the Acoustic and Electric Guitar.
Must-Have Guitar Tool Kits. Read this article to see our top picks for Guitar Tool Kits.
Best Acoustic Guitar Strings for Beginners. Looking for the best strings for your Acoustic Guitar? Check out our article here.
- How Many Frets On A Guitar? The Ultimate Guide - July 21, 2022
- Drop D Tuning: How to Easily D Tune Your Guitar - July 20, 2022
- Grote Guitar Review - July 19, 2022