Top Guitar Accessories Under $20
You don’t need to spend a fortune to upgrade your guitar setup. Some of the most useful tools for guitarists are also the most affordable — often under $20. These little accessories make life easier, help you sound better, and keep your guitar in good shape. Here are some of the essentials worth adding to your gig bag.
Guitar Strings
Fresh strings are the easiest way to improve your sound instantly. Old, dead strings lose brightness and feel tough to play on. A new set will bring back that snap and energy that makes practicing more fun. Goldbird Electric Strings are designed to be affordable but high-quality, making them a perfect choice for beginners and working musicians alike.
Guitar Picks
Picks might be the smallest accessory, but they have a massive impact on your tone and playing feel. Thin picks glide across the strings for strumming, while thicker ones give you precision and punch for solos. Try a variety until you find your favorites — or grab a pack of Goldbird Matte Grip Picks, which stay secure in your hand even during sweaty practice sessions.
Capo
If you’ve ever tried to play along with a recording that’s in a different key, a capo is your best friend. It clamps across your fretboard and changes the key instantly, letting you play familiar chord shapes without relearning the song. Perfect for beginners who want to play more songs quickly.
Tuner
Even the best guitarist sounds off if the guitar isn’t in tune. Clip-on tuners are small, accurate, and cheap — and unlike tuning by ear, they won’t fail you in a noisy room. If you’re serious about practicing, a tuner is non-negotiable.
String Winder (Bonus: Cutter)
Changing strings takes time, but a string winder cuts that down dramatically. Many come with built-in cutters and bridge pin pullers for acoustic guitars, making them the Swiss Army knife of guitar maintenance.
Strap
A comfortable strap makes a huge difference, especially if you’re practicing standing up. Even a simple nylon strap under $20 will save your shoulder and help you focus on playing rather than holding up the guitar.
Stand
Leaning your guitar against a wall is just asking for trouble. A basic folding guitar stand keeps your instrument safe and accessible. Having your guitar out and ready to play also means you’ll pick it up more often.
Cleaning Cloth
A microfiber cloth seems simple, but it’s one of the most overlooked accessories. Wiping down your strings and fretboard after each session removes sweat and grime, helping your strings last longer and your guitar stay in good shape.
Cable
If you’re playing electric, a reliable cable is essential. Cheap ones can buzz, crackle, or fail mid-session. A solid, no-frills cable under $20 will keep your signal clean and save you headaches down the road.
Slide
Looking to experiment with your sound? A slide is a fun, inexpensive way to get into bluesy, soulful tones. Whether you go with glass or metal, a slide opens up a whole new world of guitar playing.
Final Thoughts
These accessories may be small, but together they make a big difference in your playing. Strings and picks, in particular, are where most guitarists start experimenting — and fresh gear in those areas can instantly make your guitar feel better to play.
If you’re looking for a starting point, grab a set of Goldbird Electric Strings and a pack of Goldbird Matte Grip Picks. They’re simple, affordable upgrades that will give your guitar new life and make practicing more inspiring.