Music & Instruments

The Best Electric Guitar Pick Guards

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Our picks are based on Amazon bestseller rankings, verified customer ratings, and product availability. We update our recommendations regularly to ensure accuracy.

Electric guitar pickguards are more than just protective layers; they're crucial components that can influence your instrument's tone and aesthetics. Choosing the right one ensures your guitar remains protected from pick scratches while potentially enhancing its visual appeal and even its sound.

No. 2
KAISH 11 Hole ST/Strat Style Pickguard SSS Pick Guard for USA/Mexico Stratocaster/Strat Black 3 Ply
  • The Strat Pickguard fits USA/Mexican Standard Fender Strats, but not Fender Squier Strats or other types of Strats. If you have other types of strats, you may need to make a little modification to let it fit
  • Made of plastic; The pickguard has plastic films which should be peeled off after installing
  • Thickness is about 2.2mm (+/- 0.2mm error, because different bulks materials might be varied a little different thickness)
  • Due to the wide variety of pickguards in the market, please be sure to verify the dimensions carefully before you order the item
  • Free pickguard mounting screws are included
No. 3
Musiclily 3Ply SSS 11 Holes Strat Electric Guitar Pickguard Scratch Plate Pick Guards for Fender US/Mexico...
  • Fits Fender US/Mexico Made Standard Stratocaster Modern Style.If you use it for other Strat style guitar, you may need a modification for line up.
  • 11 Holes, SSS style
  • 3ply Cream/Black/Cream PVC material,0.09 inch thickness.
  • Back foiled. Double layers protect filmed on the top.
  • Package included: 1 x Pickguard
No. 4
Mr.Power 11.6 x17 Inch Guitar Bass Pickguard Blank Material DIY Sheet Scratch Plate Backplate for Strat Tele...
  • For guitar and bass. Good for DIY your own style guitar or repair your guitar.
  • Color: Black BWB
  • Size: approx. 11.6 x 17 x 0.09 Inch ( 29.5 x 43 x 0.22 cm ).
  • Can make 2 pcs pickguards for Strat, Tele guitar or Jazz bass. Or make 1 pcs pickguard for P bass.
  • There are protective film on the surface, to prevent scratches.
No. 5
OVSAL Stainless Steel Guitar Pick guard 11 holes SSS Single Coil Mounting Screws 9/32''Potentiometer Metal...
  • Application: This electric guitar pickguard is compatible with most Fender Stratocaster Strat ST style electric guitars
  • High-Quality Material: This metal electric guitar pickguards is made of stainless steel, boasting significantly higher wear resistance and service life than plastic pickguards, eliminating the troubles of scratches and frequent replacements
  • Pickguard Parameters:Overall dimensions: 285mm(11.22in)×223.5mm(8.80in),Thickness: 0.8mm,Potentiometer mounting hole diameter: 7.3mm (0.287inch). For other detailed dimensions, please refer to the size diagram
  • Cool Appearance:With this chrome guitar pickguard featuring light-and-dark interlaced carved patterns, your guitar's style will be instantly upgraded, making your performance more confident and passionate
  • Multiple Color Options:OVSAL offers pickguard products in different colors, materials, and processes. Currently, there are three color options for guitar pickguards available: chrome pickguard, black pickguard, and gold pickguard
  • Packaging: Includes 1 stainless steel guitar pickguard and mounting screws
  • Note: Since this guitar pickguard involves a large amount of dimensional data, please verify the data carefully before placing an order to ensure a perfect fit.If you have any questions, please leave a message, and we will answer them immediately
No. 6
SSH-Coil Splitting Electric Guitar Pickguard Two Mini Humbucker + ONE 4 Coil Pickup High Output-(9K/9K/18K...
  • MAXCHEER Pickguard and Two Mini Humbucker + ONE 4 Coil Pickup,Switch is a 5 way switch and the wiring is one volume and two tone controls,With three 2 way on/on switch, can Coil Split the pickup
  • Magnet: Ceramic.
  • D.C. Resistance: Neck and Middle: 9K (splitting coil 4.5K),Bridge: 18K (splitting coil 9K)
  • Four conductor wires:(Black wire is hot, green wire is ground, red and white is for splitting coil)
  • 11 screw holes:As with any pickguard, some modification may be necessary for exact hole alignment, as there are many different hole patterns.
  • Material: PVC Pickguard and Copper Coil Pickup,Pickguard Colour: 3 ply PVC,Red Tortoise Shell
  • Package Include:1 x Guitar Loaded Pickguard
  • There are 2 layers thin protective film on the front surface of the pickguard, peel off after installation.
No. 7
10pc Guitar Pickguard,Acoustic & Classical Guitar Pick Guards, Hummingbird and Water Shaped Self Adhesive
  • Color: Red&Black
  • material: PVC
  • Size:As shown in the figure
  • Anti-scratch to protect the guitar
  • Package Including: 10 x Guitar Pickguard( self-adhesive tape on the back)
No. 8
1Pcs Yootones 3Ply Electric Guitar Loaded Prewired Pickguard Pickups Replacement Compatible with Fender Squier...
  • Electric guitar loaded prewired pickguard is compatible with telecaster fender ST SG electric guitar or other suitable size electric guitars.
  • Durable and test fine. Anti-scratch material to protect the guitar to have a long life. Using braided fiber cable connects, better reduce circuit noise.
  • There are 2 layers thin protective film on the front surface of the pickguard, peel off after installation.
  • Pure aluminum foil shield on the backside, better shielding property and anti-interference.
  • Installed standard strat style knobs, switch, pickups and pre-wired circuit, included pickguard screws.1 volume, 2 tone control knobs and 3 single coil pickups. 11 mouting screws. Very easy to install.
No. 9
KAISH 8 Hole Tele Style Guitar Pickguard TL Pick Guard with Pickup Mounting Screw Holes for Tele/Telecaster...
  • Color: Vintage Tortoise
  • Material: Plastic (Pickguard is covered by original protective film)
  • The 8 hole mounting screw holes only fit American/Mexican Fender Teles,but not Squier or any other types of Teles;
  • Please note there are two mounting screw holes for neck pickup;
No. 10
Banworks 3 Ply Les Paul Pickguard LP Pickguard Scratch Plate 2-Hole Electric Guitar Pickguard for Epiphone EPI...
  • Compatibility: Fits Epiphone Les Paul Studio LT, Muse, Modern, Standard 50s/60s electric guitars made in China. Not compatible with Gibson Les Paul. If you intend to use it with a Korean-made or other models of Les Paul, some modifications might be...
  • Specifications: 3 ply construction: cream + black + cream. It has a thickness of approximately 2.1mm (5/64"). Mounting screw head diameter: 5.8mm (15/64"); Screw thread diameter: 3mm (1/8"); Screw overall length: 12mm (15/32").
  • Protective Film: Covered with two layers of plastic protective film to prevent scratches or damage during shipping and handling. Please peel off the plastic protective film before use.
  • Complete Package: Includes 1 plastic pickguard and all countersunk philips oval head mounting screws needed for convenient installation.
  • Please Note: Ensure an ideal match by referring to the detailed product specifications in the images section prior to making your purchase. Please note that the screw holes on the guard plate may exhibit a minor deviation from those on your original part...

Last update on 2026-07-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

How to Choose the Best Electric Guitar Pick Guards

Understanding Pickguard Materials

  • Plastic: The most common material, offering durability and a wide range of colors and finishes. ABS and acrylic are popular types, with ABS being more impact-resistant and acrylic offering a glossy, premium look.
  • Wood: Less common but prized for its natural aesthetic and potential to subtly affect tone. Different wood types can offer unique visual patterns and resonate differently.
  • Metal: Offers a distinct, modern look and can contribute to a brighter tone due to its reflective properties. Often made from aluminum or stainless steel.

Factors to Consider for Your Electric Guitar

  • Guitar Model Compatibility: Ensure the pickguard is designed for your specific guitar model and year. Different guitars have unique pickup configurations, screw hole placements, and body contours.
  • Pickup Cutouts: Verify that the pickguard has the correct cutouts for your guitar's pickups (e.g., single-coil, humbucker, P90).
  • Number of Holes: Count the number of mounting screw holes on your existing pickguard and find a replacement with the same count and pattern.
  • Color and Finish: Pickguards come in a vast array of colors, patterns (like tortoiseshell, pearloid), and finishes (glossy, matte). Choose one that complements your guitar's body and hardware.

Installation Tips

  • Always disconnect your guitar strings before attempting to remove or install a pickguard.
  • Keep track of all screws and their original positions to ensure proper reassembly.
  • If unsure about wiring or pickup removal, consult a professional guitar technician.
  • Gently clean the guitar body where the pickguard sits to remove any dust or debris before installing the new one.

Aesthetic and Tonal Impact

  • While primarily protective, the material and thickness of a pickguard can have a minor impact on a guitar's resonance and overall tone. Thicker materials might slightly dampen vibrations, while thinner or metallic ones could allow for more open resonance.
  • The visual impact is significant. A new pickguard can completely change the look of your instrument, offering a cost-effective way to personalize it.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of an electric guitar pickguard?
The primary function of a pickguard is to protect the guitar's body finish from scratches and damage caused by the guitar pick during playing. It also serves as a mounting surface for some electronic components.
How do I know which pickguard will fit my guitar?
Check your guitar's make, model, and year, and look for replacement pickguards specifically designed for it. Pay close attention to the number and placement of screw holes and the type and arrangement of pickup cutouts.
Can a pickguard affect the sound of my electric guitar?
Yes, although the effect is generally subtle. The material, thickness, and density of the pickguard can influence how the guitar's body resonates, which in turn can slightly alter the tonal characteristics.
Are plastic pickguards durable?
Most plastic pickguards, particularly those made from ABS, are quite durable and resistant to impact and wear. They offer a good balance of protection, affordability, and aesthetic variety.
Is it difficult to install a new pickguard?
Installation is typically straightforward for those with basic guitar maintenance knowledge. It involves removing the strings, unscrewing the old guard, and carefully screwing on the new one, ensuring correct alignment.
What are common pickguard materials besides plastic?
Beyond plastic, pickguards are also made from wood, which offers a natural look and feel, and metal (like aluminum or stainless steel) for a modern aesthetic and potentially brighter tone.