10 Best Humbucker Pickups Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Humbucker Pickup Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

When it comes to finding the best humbucker pickups, things are not always easy, given that there are plenty of items in this category and you have to spend a lot of time researching to see which one is the most suitable alternative. However, if you don’t want to get this done on your own, it’s a good thing you are reading this article. Our team has decided to shed some light on the matter and gathered an impressive amount of data and details on each of the highest-rated pickups. The conclusion is that the model you want to keep in mind is the Kmise’s Zebra Faced Humbucker Double Coil Pickups set, as it features a solid construction, as well as nickel pole pieces that ensure superior results. Moreover, the set is wax potted and sealed, so there won’t be uncomfortable sounds, and the sound it renders is clear and smooth. If you cannot find this product available, the alternative is the FOXNOVO’s Professional Sealed Humbucker Pickups Set.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Humbucker Pickups (Updated Reviews) in 2021

 

 

In case you find yourself looking at humbucker pickups reviews without being sure which product to go for, the next selection is definitely going to help you out, given that it showcases the top-rated pickups in this category for you to take your pick.

 

 

1. Kmise Zebra Faced Humbucker Double Coil Pickups 

 

When it comes to humbucker pickups, it’s not always easy to find a product that fits most guitars but, luckily, this is the case with this Kmise unit. If you’ve been looking for an effective and versatile solution for your guitar, you should keep the Zebra Faced Humbucker Pickups in mind for your future purchase.

Thanks to the nickel pole pieces that are included in their construction, these items are both solid and durable. You won’t have to replace them anytime soon, and you will also benefit from the high-quality output they ensure. It’s also good to know that they are sealed, as well as fully wax potted, so this is not something you are going to have to worry about.

The package includes one pair of Zebra Faced humbucker pickups, and you will get everything you need to start using them right away.

 

Pros

With a solid construction and nickel pole pieces included, this set of humbucker pickups is the right choice for any guitarist who wants to get superior results.

You will be able to take your sound to the next level, while these are items you can rely on thanks to their fully wax-potted construction.

The pole spacing is 1.96 inches/2.04 inches, and these are also highly versatile, given that they work with almost any guitar model, and they are also very quiet, which is always a good thing.

If you have someone in your family who is into music, this set can be a very nice gift for a special occasion.

 

Cons

The wiring might pose some problems in the long run, especially if you handle the set without the necessary care.

These units don’t include particular markings for neck or bridge pickups, so you may have to adapt them a bit.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($16.93)

 

 

 

2. FOXNOVO Professional Sealed Humbucker Pickups Set 

 

This Foxnovo product is a great example of a humbucker pickup set that you can rely on, given that it comes with multiple features and, thus, benefits for the user. The first thing you will notice is that this is a professional item and that it’s sealed, so you won’t have to worry about its durability.

Moreover, the unit is specially made for neck and bridge positions, and it works very well with Gibson Epiphone Les Paul guitars. Of course, you can try using it with other types of guitars as well, depending on their design and construction. The pickups are designed to ensure a classic warm tone, but they also offer a bit more output for that extra crunchy sound.

If you are looking for a suitable replacement for your old pickup, this Foxnovo set is one that can go to the top of the shopping list, especially since it’s available at an affordable price as well.

 

Pros

The set comes with an elegant and professional design, the main color being black, and the materials it features are high-quality copper and plastic.

With a premium design and structure, as well as with the sealed construction, you have nothing to worry about when it comes to this set’s durability.

The sound you’ll obtain is warm but it also has some extra crunch for the punch, so you can get creative with your music, if this is what you are after.

Given that these pickups are both vacuum sealed and triple wax dipped, you won’t have anything to worry about in terms of unwanted noise.

 

Cons

The package includes one set, as well as 8 screws, so be careful when you open it so that you don’t lose anything.

Installing them might take a bit of time, especially if you are not used to such a task.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($19.98)

 

 

 

3. FLEOR Alnico 5 Guitar Pickup Double Coil Humbucker Pickups 

 

Fleor offers a set of guitar humbucker pickups that are built to last and, more importantly, to make your life easier and better when it comes to the sounds that you can obtain. These items are made for bridge and neck positions, and they also feature an elegant mostly-black design that’s going to go well with the rest of your gear.

If you are interested in their performance, you should know that the pole pieces include 6 non-adjustable slug and 6 adjustable screw ones. Moreover, the pole spacing is 1.96 inches for the neck and 2.04 inches for the bridge positions. This set is quite versatile, so you are going to be able to use it with a wide range of guitars.

Plus, given that we’re speaking of a sealed and fully wax-potted model, you won’t have to worry about unwanted feedback that can otherwise appear when using lower-quality products.

 

Pros

This Fleor model is compatible with electric guitars that have this option, so if this is how you are planning to use it, you are not wrong.

You should know that the unit is easy to install, so this process won’t be more complicated than one would expect, even if you are less seasoned in this area.

The package includes one neck pickup, a bridge one, as well as 4 springs and 4 screws, so you’ll get everything you need to start using it.

Thanks to the elegant design, this product will definitely suit the rest of your gear, so there’s nothing to worry about here.

 

Cons

Depending on your preferences, the sound this set produces might be a bit too bright, but this might also be a very good thing for some users.

In case any item is missing from the package due to error, make sure to contact the seller for assistance.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($36.54)

 

 

 

4. Seymour Duncan Hot Rodded Humbucker Matched Guitar Pickup Set 

 

This pickup set comes with a very interesting history behind it, given that it was in 1974 that Seymour first created it. The job was done so well that it remained among the top favorite options for experienced users until today. The things you can rely on are this set’s quality and versatility, so if you are looking for a humbucker that can fit a wide range of guitars, this is the one for you.

Given its design and construction, what you can expect from this set is a great upper midrange attack, as well as rich highs and an articulate low end. This means that it makes an excellent bridge pickup for multiple musical styles, from country and blues to hard rock.

The fact that an alnico 5-bar magnet is used in its construction, as well as a special coil wind, means that the set offers an immediate and great response.

 

Pros

This is a tone-matched set that ensures optimal versatility, especially since it comes with a nickel silver bottom plate.

The fact that it’s vacuum wax potted means that there are not going to be any sounds that you are not happy about to disturb your performance.

The unit is specially calibrated to ensure optimal results for all types of music, from blues to rock, so you’ll get the necessary versatility to play music just as you want to.

The package includes a Dunlop care kit, as well as an exclusive True Tune clip-on tuner, and 12 Fender Guitar Picks.

 

Cons

While this is a very nice set to add to your gear, it’s certainly not one with cheap humbucker pickups, which might make it a bit less attractive to beginners.

You may have to do a bit of research to make sure you install it correctly.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($149)

 

 

 

5. FLEOR Electric Guitar Humbucker Pickups 

 

This Fleor model comes with everything you need for a warm sound rendered by a unit you can rely on. The set features an elegant design, so not only will you be able to use it given its superior performance, but it will also go very well with your gear, especially if you are planning to hold some concerts or live performances.

One of the things you should know about this Fleor product is that it includes a ceramic magnet. Moreover, the set comes with both a neck and a bridge pickup, and these are versatile so they can be installed on a wide range of guitar models. In terms of pole pieces, this unit comes with 6 adjustable screw ones and 6 non-adjustable ones.

Furthermore, the pickups are also fully wax potted, which means that you won’t have to deal with sounds or noises that shouldn’t be there.

 

Pros

Featuring a high-quality structure and a versatile design, this set is a very good choice for anyone who wants to benefit from a reliable humbucker pickup.

If you have a friend or a family member who is truly passionate about playing the guitar, this product can be an excellent gift as it helps users take their skills and creativity to the next level.

The fully wax potted feature means that the user won’t get unwanted noise as he or she tests the full benefits of this set.

The package includes two pickups, as well as the necessary screws and springs, so you’ll get all the necessary items to start using this set right away.

 

Cons

This set doesn’t come with a wiring diagram, so if you are rather new to installing it on your own, you may have to look some details up online.

You may have to extend the wires in case they don’t easily reach the controls.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($25.83)

 

 

 

6. Metallor Electric Guitar Humbucker Pickup 

 

This Metallor set might be just what you’ve been looking for, given that it’s a quality product, available at an affordable price, that has wide applicability. This set’s versatility is one of the most important factors for which you should take it into consideration for your next purchase. It works well with electric guitars as well, so there are little limitations to what you can do with it.

Moreover, it includes both a neck pickup and a bridge one. The former ensures warm and sweet tones and has a string spacing of 1.96 inches, while the latter is powerful and it features a 2.04-inch string spacing.

You may also appreciate the sleek and stylish design of this unit, even though this is surely not the main feature for which you should take it into account. However, it will surely go very well with your gear, so that’s something to keep in mind as well.

 

Pros

The installation process is quite easy, so you shouldn’t have any problem with it, even if you are still getting the hang of setting up and using a humbucker pickup.

The sealed construction that is also fully wax potted ensures a high-quality sound, free of any noises that you wouldn’t want to include.

The versatile design and structure make this set compatible with multiple guitar models, so it’s a good alternative.

You will get in the package everything you need, including mounting rings and screws, so these are not something you will have to spend extra money on.

 

Cons

The pickups are not marked as bridge or neck, so you will have to measure the ohm value to figure out where they need to be installed.

The colors of the wiring might not follow the generally-accepted rule of thumb, so you can ask the manufacturer for details if you are not sure where they should go.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($16.99)

 

 

 

7. Metallor Humbucker Pickups Bridge and Neck Set 

 

This Metallor model is a great example of a pair of high-quality pickups that can be used to get the sound you want, and that can also be used with multiple guitar models. The pickups are specially sized to ensure a retrofit, so you shouldn’t hesitate to give them a try, especially as they ensure the clarity of a single-coil sound but with minimum modifications.

The black pickups come with 6 pole pieces that are adjustable, while in terms of their measures, these are 1.96 inches for the neck pickup and 2.04 inches for the bridge one. If you are interested in more technical aspects, you can also take a look at the frequency response graph that is plotted for this set.

You shouldn’t question the set’s durability either, given that it includes long leads for wiring your guitar up and that the materials used are of superior quality.

 

Pros

You will get everything necessary to install and start using the pickups right away, so you won’t have to spend more money on additional items.

Each pickup comes with a clear protective film that needs to be removed before playing, as this ensures they get to the end-user in top shape.

No matter what type of music you are into, these pickups are going to work well, given that they enhance both the tone and the clarity, taking your music to the next level.

If you are looking to upgrade your guitar or replace your old pickups, this is one alternative that you surely want to keep in mind.

 

Cons

Even though this is a versatile model, you should make sure that it fits your guitar by taking a look at all the details provided.

The pickups are not marked for neck and bridge, so you will have to measure the string spacing in order to tell them apart.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($34.99)

 

 

 

8. ASCENDAS HZ5 Electric Guitar Humbucker Pickup 

 

In this humbucker pickups review, we’re going to take a look at this Ascendas model that ensures multiple benefits and that also comes with a very nice design that works to complement the rest of a musician’s gear. If you haven’t checked out this product yet, it’s a very good thing that you are here.

One of the main reasons for which this is such a good choice is the fact that the set has wide applicability. You are going to be able to install it on multiple types of guitars, including electrical ones. Moreover, the materials used are of high quality, and the magnet type is alnico 5. In terms of pole spacing, the neck pickup one is 0.39 inches, while the bridge one is 0.40 inches.

Those who are after a smooth and warm tone that also has plenty of vitality, this is the pickup set to try out.

 

Pros

This model works very well to control the high-frequency range, while the ending sounds are full and strong with its help.

The completely wax-potted and sealed construction means that this unit doesn’t allow noises that are not supposed to be there and that might hinder your performance.

The nice design makes this product an excellent choice for your gear, while the high-quality craftsmanship ensures superior durability and performance.

With a weight of 6.5 oz., you don’t have to think that these pickups might be too heavy if you are planning to perform for extended periods.

 

Cons

The wiring diagram might not be very clear, so during the installation process, make sure you do a bit of research on your own.

The packaging could be improved, but given that these are affordable humbucker pickups that sound great, this is not really an issue.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($38.99)

 

 

 

9. Lovermusic One Pair Ceramic Magnet Humbucker Guitar Pickup 

 

Featuring a metal construction, this Lovermusic product is, first of all, a unit that you will be able to rely on for a long time. Thanks to the open design, the output volume is bright and very clear, so it can definitely make a difference in terms of how your music can sound. There are little limitations to what you can do with this pickup, as long as you remain creative along the way.

You may also want to know that this Lovermusic model works great for electric guitars, so if punk or heavy metal is your thing, you don’t want to miss out on all the benefits this pickup brings. It’s also good to note that the red design definitely makes this set stand out, and so will the rest of your gear.

The ceramic magnets are built to last, while the spacing is 1.96 inches for the neck pickup and 2.04 inches for the bridge one.

 

Pros

If a friend or someone in your family is into rock or punk music, then this is a gift idea that will certainly be very appreciated.

The versatile construction makes this set suitable for many types of guitars, and you can obtain great results with electric ones.

Made using superior materials, this model is going to be a reliable partner for your music for a long time.

Thanks to the open design, the sound and volume are clear, as well as bright, which makes this set a great choice for bringing your music to another level.

 

Cons

The installation process should not be very difficult, but if you are not used to such a task, you may have to do some prior research.

This set is wired in series, so this is something to bear in mind if you are a fan or models wired in parallel.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($17.94)

 

 

 

10. FLEOR Alnico 5 Electric Guitar Neck & Bridge Pickup Set 

 

This Fleor humbucker pickup is a versatile product that can be used with electric guitars without any trouble. If you want to bring your music and sound to the next level, then you should give it a try and see the results for yourself. With this being said, it’s important to mention that this product comes with an alnico 5 magnet, as well as with 12 hexagonal screw pole pieces.

These are also adjustable, while the set itself is wax potted and sealed, which means that you won’t have to worry about unwanted noise. Moreover, thanks to the black design that looks very good, this product works well with any gear, so you won’t have to make any compromises in terms of style, especially if you are doing live performances.

The set includes a bridge and a neck pickup, and given that it comes with all the necessary screws and springs, you’ll have everything necessary to start using it right away.

 

Pros

This model comes with 12 hexagonal pole pieces that can be adjusted to your needs, and it’s also a versatile option for those who want to test more unique sounds.

The package includes the two pickups and all the necessary items to install everything right away, so you won’t have to wait for another delivery to be able to give it a go.

Thanks to the wax-potted and sealed construction, you won’t risk having noise or feedback ruin your songs.

With plenty of benefits offered, this set is a very good idea if you want to choose a gift for a friend who is into guitar playing.

 

Cons

The leads might be a bit short, so you may have to find a solution if that’s the case.

If you are not experienced with installing a humbucker pickup, then you may have to do some extra research.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($36.04)

 

 

 

Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Finding the best humbucker pickup is not always very easy, especially if you are just getting the hang of playing the guitar. The good news is that these handy little tools can actually make a significant difference in the way your music sounds. However, there are some factors that you may want to take into account before placing an order.

No matter if you’re looking for something specific, such as the best humbucker pickups for blues, or if you are simply browsing through sets and products trying to figure out which one is the most versatile and suitable choice, in the next lines you’re going to find some main characteristics that you should look for when making your choice.

A few words on the magnet

There are two main options when it comes to guitar pickups, namely passive or active models. Passive ones use a magnet that is placed under the guitar strings to create an electronic field that then turns into sound. Active models use a battery to create a similar electric field, and these products usually offer preamps as well.

If you are going to choose a unit that comes with magnets, as is most of the time the case, you want to choose a high-quality one, given that this aspect really does influence the sound’s quality. What you want to look for are AlNiCo magnets, as these combine aluminum nickel as well as cobalt, to deliver the right results.

On the other hand, you can take a look at other options, such as ceramic magnets. These tend to be less smooth than their AlNiCo counterparts, but they are nevertheless quite popular among guitarists.

 

Choosing the right pickup for your style

Since there are multiple musical genres, it can be tough to choose the right pickup for the one that you prefer. The right approach, in this case, is to test more options and see which one suits your musical style. Of course, you can also test your own creativity and try out new tunes and sounds as you do that.

What you want to decide as you are choosing the next pickup is how much distortion you want to use. For instance, if you choose a pickup set with a higher output, then you will get more distort.

A bit about coils

So far, it’s pretty clear that pickups are basically magnets that work with a copper wire wrapped around them and placed right under the guitar strings. Single coils mean that each string has its own magnet that it uses.

However, if you choose a dual-coil set, also known as a humbucker, then you will get two sets of wrapped pickups, one for the right-hand side and one for the left-hand side. The great part about these units is that the radio interference is canceled out between the two poles, so this is no longer an issue.

Moreover, humbucker pickups also tend to ensure a fuller and darker tone, so if this is what you are after, then they are definitely a better choice. As you play your guitar, you’re also going to notice that if you go towards the neck, the sound will be brighter. On the other hand, if you are playing towards the base, the tone is darker, and this particularity allows more versatility.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Q: What are humbucker pickups?

Humbucker pickups are useful tools specially designed for guitars that use a double coil to cancel out the interference that can cause hums that are not very pleasant to the ear, thus smoothing the guitar’s sounds throughout a song. Experienced guitarists know that these pickups are extremely useful and, if used in a creative way, can help develop more styles.

If you are not sure whether you need and should use a set or not, the best way to go about it is to give pickups a try and see how they work. Of course, this applies if you’re still a beginner and you are not sure what the difference is. However, as you gain experience, you will also start to have preferences and see which pickups work better for your style.

The most important part is that these items are very useful, so you should add a set to your gear, if you haven’t already done so.

Q: What’s the difference between single coil and double coil pickups?

The main difference between these two options is that one of them has one coil of wire that goes wrapped around one or more magnets, this being the single-coil, while double-coil units come with two wires wrapped around, based on the same principle.

You should also keep in mind that double-coil pickups usually have more output, which means they can render more pronounced sounds. Moreover, they don’t pick up “hums” either, given that the two wires work together and cancel out any interference.

In fact, this is one of the reasons for which they are a very popular choice among guitarists. In terms of the way they are made, double-coil picks can be set in series or in parallel, each option having a slight impact on the sound as well. However, the choice here depends on the user’s preferences as well, so you should try more alternatives before picking your favorite.

 

Q: How do I install a humbucker pickup?

The first thing you will need to do is to remove the electrical covers of your guitar and detach the wires that go from the pickguard assembly so that you can then replace them. You may have to remove some solder as well, and you can do this by using a soldering gun, in order to then pull the wires apart.

Make sure you also have a clear diagram of what you need to be doing, so that you know where you are at every moment. Then proceed to place the new wires where the old ones used to be and solder them in the right place. Next, you will have to replace the hardware as well by placing it firmly in the right spot.

Once everything is in order, you should play the guitar and see if the sound is ok, as nothing should be distorted.