Best Thumb Picks for Guitar in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

Published: April 11th, 2024

🎸Getting the most out of your fingerstyle guitar playing often hinges on the little things, and thumb picks can make a big difference. They free up your fingers and give you more consistent and clear sound. Whether you're just starting out or you've been playing for years, there's a lot to gain from the right thumb pick. We've checked out some of the best options in 2024, covering different needs and styles.

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Overall Best: Dunlop Ultex Thumb Pick

Jim Dunlop 9073P Thumbpicks, Large, 4/Player's Pack Large Player Pack 4 picks Single

Our top pick is the Dunlop Ultex Thumb Pick, celebrated for its outstanding durability and bright, articulate tone. Crafted from Ultex material, these picks offer an excellent balance of flexibility and a snug fit, making them a favorite among fingerstyle guitarists. Available in both medium and large sizes, they cater to a range of hand sizes. According to our research, players appreciate the pick's clear, sharp tone and its resilience over extended use. If durability and performance are your priorities, this thumb pick won't disappoint.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$11.49 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Jim Dunlop Thumbpicks (Large)? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Can the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks be reshaped or resized?

Reshaping or resizing the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks is a bit of a challenge due to the tough Ultex material they're made from. Our research suggests they tend to run smaller than you might expect, which can be a bummer if you've got larger thumbs. The tricky part is that Ultex is pretty heat-resistant, so usual tricks like using hot water or a microwave won't work. You'd need to heat them up to about 425 degrees Fahrenheit to get them to bend, which is way hotter than boiling water. Some folks have had luck by gently warming them in an oven, reshaping carefully, and then cooling them in cold water. But, it definitely requires patience and a steady hand—there's a risk of damaging the picks or burning yourself. If this sounds like more hassle than you're up for, it might be worth checking out other sizes or brands. A snug fit can really affect comfort, especially if you're playing for long stretches. While these picks do offer a bright, clear sound, the fit might be too tight if your thumb is on the larger side. You could look for an extra-large size if that's an option or explore other brands that provide a similar sound with more sizing varieties. In short, while the Dunlop Ultex Thumbpicks are great for sound and durability, adjusting their size isn't easy and comes with some risks. Think about whether the excellent tone is worth the fit issues, and don't hesitate to consider alternatives if needed. Comfort and playability should always come first, particularly if you're playing regularly or professionally.

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Are the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks comfortable for long playing sessions?

Hey! If you're wondering about the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks and their comfort over long playing sessions, here's what I've found. These thumbpicks are made from Ultex, which is known for being really tough and having a nice sound quality. If you play fingerstyle, the bright and clear sound they produce can be a big plus. They're designed to be strong and last long, which is great if you play a lot. But when it comes to comfort, it can vary from person to person. Our research shows that quite a few players feel these picks have a good grip and are happy with the sound. That said, some folks have mentioned they feel a bit tight, even if your thumb is average-sized. If they feel snug, you might need to adjust them a bit. Unlike other materials, the usual methods like using boiling water or a microwave won't work here, as Ultex is quite heat-resistant. Instead, our data suggests putting them in an oven at 425 degrees Fahrenheit to soften them slightly for adjustment. Ultex is really durable, so customization isn't super easy. For some folks, if these thumbpicks feel uncomfortable over time—especially if your thumbs are bigger or if you need more flexibility—it might be worth checking out other brands that offer a wider range of sizes or materials that can be adjusted more easily. In the end, the Dunlop Ultex Thumbpicks are great for sound and durability. But for long sessions, a lot depends on whether they fit you well from the start or if you can tweak them to fit better. If you get the fit sorted, they're a reliable choice for delivering good sound. Hope this helps with your decision! And remember, it's always a good idea to try out a few options until you find the thumbpick that's just right for you.

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How do the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks compare to other thumb pick materials?

If you're checking out thumb pick options and want to know how the Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks compare to those made from other materials, I've got some insights based on our research. These picks are pretty tough and known for providing a bright, clear sound. The Ultex material, as explained by the manufacturer, is built to handle heavy use without losing its tone. But here's the catch: they can be a bit less flexible and might feel snug. From what we found, a common issue is their tight fit, even though they're labeled as large. If your thumbs are on the bigger side, they could feel a bit constricting because the Ultex material doesn't reshape easily. Unlike standard plastic picks that can be adjusted with hot water, Ultex needs higher heat—like an oven set to 425°F—to reshape. Not everyone is up for that challenge. When you look at other materials like plastic, celluloid, or metal, each has its own pros and cons. Plastic and celluloid can be molded more easily and might fit better right away, but they might wear out quicker and not be as bright-sounding as Ultex. Metal picks are super durable and have a distinct sound, but they might not be the comfiest for long sessions. If the fit of Ultex isn't working for you, it might be worth exploring other options. Picks from brands like [Jim Dunlop](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Djim%2Bdunlop%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) or [Black Mountain](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dblack%2Bmountain%2Bthumb%2Bpicks%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) tend to focus on comfort, with designs suited for different thumb sizes. Some folks think Jim Dunlop might offer more size options for their Ultex picks in the future, which could solve the fit issue. So, if you're all about durability and tone and the fit isn't a problem, then Jim Dunlop 9073P Ultex Thumbpicks could be perfect for you. But if you're more concerned with comfort and flexibility, checking out other materials or brands might be the way to go.

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Runner-up: Black Mountain Thumb Picks

The Black Mountain Thumb Picks earn their runner-up status with an innovative spring-loaded design that ensures a secure and comfortable fit. Available in various gauges and shapes—standard and jazz—these picks adapt seamlessly to different playing styles. What truly sets them apart is the unique option of two spring tensions: 'comfortable' and 'extra-tight,' allowing for a tailored picking experience. Our findings show that guitarists enjoy the increased accuracy and speed these picks provide, making them suitable for both casual jamming and professional performances.

View TLDR Review: Black Mountain Thumb Picks

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$9.33 at Walmart

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Budget Pick: Jim Dunlop Plastic Thumb Picks

Dunlop 9003P White Plastic Thumbpicks, Large, 4/Player's Pack

For budget-conscious players, the Jim Dunlop Plastic Thumb Picks offer excellent value without sacrificing quality. These picks are renowned for their simplicity and neutral sound, making them perfect for beginners and those watching their spending. Made from durable plastic, they come in a variety of colors to match your style. Despite their affordability, they deliver reliable performance, which is why they're beloved by guitarists worldwide, as our research highlights.

View TLDR Review: Jim Dunlop White Plastic Thumbpicks, Large

The Dunlop 9003P White Plastic Thumbpicks receive a moderate score primarily for their comfortable fit and solid performance, appreciated by many musicians for enhancing their playing experience. However, recurring complaints about sizing inconsistencies, with the "large" fitting too tightly for some users, and durability issues over time dampen their overall appeal despite their affordability and ease of use.

7.74

Overall

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$9.99 at Amazon

Best for Versatility: Herco Thumb Picks

The Herco Thumb Picks stand out for their unique hybrid design that combines a traditional thumb pick with the functionality of a flat pick. This dual-purpose design allows guitarists to easily switch between strumming and fingerpicking. Constructed from synthetic material, they offer a warm tone and a secure grip, making them ideal for versatile playing styles. Our evidence indicates that their ergonomic design minimizes slipping and enhances comfort during intense sessions.

View TLDR Review: Herco Thumb Picks

Available at Amazon

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Most Comfortable: Golden Gate Ivoroid Thumb Picks

For those prioritizing comfort, the Golden Gate Ivoroid Thumb Picks are the go-to choice. Made from premium materials that mimic ivory, these picks provide exceptional comfort and an ergonomic fit. Guitarists praise their balanced tone and rich sound, which make these picks suitable for extended playing sessions. According to our findings, the comfortable design and high-quality sound production make them a favorite for both strumming and fingerpicking.

View TLDR Review: Golden Gate Thumb Picks

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$34.95 at Amazon

Best for Tone Variety: Tusq Thumbpicks By GraphTech

The Tusq Thumbpicks by GraphTech are ideal for players seeking a variety of tonal options. Made from 'man-made ivory,' these picks produce a rich, full sound with enhanced harmonics. They are available in three tonal varieties—bright, warm, and deep—allowing you to customize your tone to your exact preference. Our research shows that these picks are highly favored by professional guitarists for the tonal depth and variety they offer, making them a stellar choice for those looking to refine their sound.

View TLDR Review: Graph Tech TUSQ Thumb Pick 3-Pack

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$9.71 at Amazon

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