Banjo Picks can be either plastic, metal, or a combination of both. They’re a vital part of playing the instrument better and louder and with accuracy. 

Banjo Picks come in varying sizes and are of two particular types. 

Depending upon the type of Banjo picks, you decide how you wear them. Before getting into the list of the best banjo picks, it’s important to tell its types apart. 

Thumb picks 

The Banjo thumb picks are usually in the shape of a blade that moves on the strings. It also has a band to help them stay attached to your thumb. They’re usually made of molded plastic or metal. Thumb picks come in sizes marked S, M, and L, and the players need to choose what fits them the best. 

The best thumb picks for Banjo are those which are snuggly fit. 

Finger picks 

Like thumb picks, Finger picks are made of metal or plastic, except they fit onto your fingernails. We’re to discuss the best metal finger picks for Banjo and the best plastic ones for the article. 

Best Banjo Picks Reviews

If you’re starting to play the instrument and need one Banjo pick, it’s essential that you choose the best banjo thumb picks, for not all of the picks would serve your purpose. Trying to look for the best thumb picks for Banjo can be confusing at times. But worry not, we have you covered on this. 

So, here’s what you need to consider when choosing the best banjo picks for beginners: 

Size of the picks 

It would help if you start looking for the best-sized pick for your thumb or fingers. They’re usually rated as S, M, and L, denoting their sizes. Pick one and continue experimenting until you have the right fit with the correct size. 

Type of Banjo 

There are two styles of playing Banjo: Clawhammer and the more recent, Bluegrass. Each of the two types uses distinct techniques for playing the instrument. 

The Clawhammer Banjo technique is to make a downward strumming motion in the strings. However, the Bluegrass technique doesn’t use strumming and instead uses fingerpicks to pluck the strings like classical guitarists. 

So, depending upon the type of style of the instrument, there are two different picks more suited for either of the two. The best Clawhammer banjo picks don’t necessarily have to be the best Bluegrass banjo picks. 

Weight of the picks 

There are more comfortable players with heavier picks while the others, especially the newbies, find it difficult with heavier ones. So, if you’re just a beginner, the best Banjo picks for you would be the lighter ones. 

The Best Banjo Picks – Buying Guide

1. SUNLP Thumb and Finger Picks Plectrum : Amazon’s Choice in the best banjo thumb picks

Performance: 

It gives an experience of painless holding with flexible picks. It is flexible and is suited for beginners looking to learn without a lot of pressure while playing the instrument. 

Description: 

Brand: SUNLP

Material: Durable Plastic 

Color: Multi-colored 

Package: 3 pairs 

Compatibility: Guitar, Banjo, and Mandolin

Comparison: 

The quality of material used is celluloid plastic. It is lightweight and easy to use for beginners when compared to some other metallic picks. Easily one of the best Banjo picks for beginners. 

Usage: 

Light and easy to use. 

Pros: 

• It adjusts onto your finger size, given its celluloid build, unlike the rigid metal picks. 
• It is durable and comes with several passed tests of durability. 
• The picks give a comfortable, painless Banjo experience. 
• The sound is louder and more precise. 

Cons: 

• Plastic-built 
• No size-specific picks 

What’s New? 

Non-metal, multi-colored picks, with easy-to-use experience.

Why should you buy it?

Given how most of the makers are switching to hard metal build quality, the beginners are finding it challenging to get started with them. It comes with durable plastic material and is one of the best Bluegrass Banjo Picks. 

2. NON-SQUARE 3 Pairs Thumb and Finger Picks: Banjo, Ukulele, or Guitar

Performance: 

Excellent quality picks with attractive colors, which fit just about snuggly on average finger size. 

Description: 

Brand: NON-SQUARE

Material: Plastic

Color: Multi-Colored (Blue, Gray) 

Package: 3 Pairs 

Compatibility: Banjo, Ukulele, or Guitar 

Comparison: 

The picks are designed to keep the players’ nails from wearing. They’re on the shorter size of the scale and tight-fitting for the average size of fingernails. 

Usage: 

Easy to use and fits just right. 

Pros: 

• Designed for a tight, snug fit. 
• It comes in cool, aesthetic colors. 
• The picks allow slight adjustment for a clear tone and higher volume.
• It comes with an attractive gift box. 

Cons: 

• It might appear too tight for some. 
• It doesn’t have size-specific picks. 

What’s New?

Stylish designs and an attractive gift box, one of the best banjo picks for beginners.

Why should you buy it?

If you have tiny fingers and are a beginner, this might be one of the best Banjo picks for you. 

3. TONE DEAF MUSIC Stainless Steel Banjo Picks: Sturdy design 

Performance: 

It comes with a rugged, durable, and sturdy design that is a one-fit for all. The music is loud and clear, and the play is as natural as it gets. It is one of the best Clawhammer Banjo picks on the internet.  

Description: 

Brand: Tone Deaf Music 

Material: Stainless Steel

Color: Silver 

Package: 3 Pairs 

Compatibility: Banjo, Dobro, Guitar 

Comparison: 

The picks are made of stainless steel, which assures durability like nothing else. They’re rigid and sturdy on the fingernails. 

Usage: 

Tight-fitting banjo experience. 

Pros: 

• The material is steel — enhances durability 
• Tight-fitting picks for the best experience 
• One of the best metal finger pricks for Banjo  
• Shiny, silver design, one of the best banjo thumb picks

Cons: 

• Steel-built so it might prove heavy for the beginners 
• Difficult to adjust for large fingers

What’s new?

Durable build-quality and a sparkling color design.

Why should you buy it?

If you’re looking for strong, snuggly, steel-made picks, this might be one of the best Banjo picks for you.  

4. EPIC BERRY Thumb and Finger Picks: Comes with a Pouch 

Performance: 

These are medium-sized thumb picks that make a secure fit on the fingernails, without seeming to be stiff and are one of the best metal finger picks for banjo. 

Description: 

Brand: EPIC BERRY

Material: Hard Plastic 

Color: Emerald Green

Package: 3+1 (finger+thumb) 

Compatibility: Banjo, Guitar, and Ukulele

Comparison:

It comes with a very immersive color, saves fingernails from wear, and can come in handy when playing various instruments, including Banjo. 

Usage: 

The music is clear in tone, and the picks are a decent fit. 

Pros: 

• The color used is striking Emerald Green — so expect a ‘catchy’ performance. 
• The quality of plastic used is great and can be adjusted to make the right fit. 
• It comes with an attractive pouch. 
• The shape can be customised. 

Cons: 

• Lacks many pairs of picks.
• Small in size.

What’s new?

A stylish marble-green color on the picks and a matching picks’ pouch.

Why should you buy it?

If you want your picks cool and aesthetically pleasing, these are the best banjo picks for you. 

FAQs:

1.Do all the picks fit everybody?

No, the picks are size-specific. Those that aren’t marked as such can be molded with some specific methods. 

2.What kind of thumb pick would be better if I’m a beginner? 

There’s no particular answer to this. Most beginners find the lightweight plastic picks more friendly and easier to use.

Also, check out 4 Best Banjo Accessories, that will help you in learning Banjo efficiently and effectively.