Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars 10 Models Reviewed 2025

When you pick up a Les Paul, you’re not just holding a guitar; you’re holding a piece of music history, a tone machine with endless possibilities. Over the years, I’ve spent countless hours tweaking, swapping, and experimenting with my own Les Pauls, always chasing that elusive perfect sound. I know the feeling – you love your Les Paul, but maybe you’re looking for a bit more bite, a warmer clean, or just a fresh voice. It’s often the pickups that are the heart of that tonal quest. But here’s the thing: diving into “upgrades” can be overwhelming. It’s not just about the pickup itself; sometimes it’s the mounting, the wiring, or even starting with a guitar that already offers a solid foundation. That’s why I’ve put together this hands-on guide, reviewing a mix of components that can truly impact your Les Paul’s sound and playability. We’ll look at everything from actual pickup sets to crucial mounting hardware and even some complete guitar packages that offer great value. My goal is to help you cut through the noise and find the right pieces to elevate your Les Paul experience in 2025.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Guyker Curved Bottom Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Ring…	View on Amazon
	Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 Electric Guitar, Ebony	View on Amazon
	Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Vintage Sunburst	View on Amazon
	Wilkinson WOCHB Ceramic Humbucker Pickups Set for Les Paul…	View on Amazon
	2Pcs Yootones Electric Guitar Pickups Double Coil…	View on Amazon
	Musiclily Pro Metric Thread Plastic Guitar 3 Way Toggle…	View on Amazon
	Randon 3 Way Short Straight Guitar Toggle Switch Pickup…	View on Amazon
	Musiclily Metric 3 Way Short Straight Guitar Toggle Switch…	View on Amazon
	DaierTek 3 Way Guitar Toggle Switch Pickup Selector for…	View on Amazon
	OVSAL 2 PCS Brass Humbucker Guitar Pickup Covers Neck…	View on Amazon

Guyker Curved Bottom Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Ring Set

You might think pickup rings are just for looks, but trust me, getting the right fit is crucial for both aesthetics and stable pickup placement. These Guyker mounting rings offer a professional-grade replacement or upgrade for your Les Paul, ensuring your humbuckers sit snugly and look sharp. Made from durable metal with a sleek black finish, they’re designed with a curved bottom to match the top of your Les Paul, which is a detail often overlooked but makes a huge difference in appearance. They come as a set for both neck and bridge positions, making it easy to swap out old, broken, or misfitting rings. Just be sure to measure your existing setup carefully, as Les Paul dimensions can vary slightly.

• Professional Quality: Metal construction for durability and a high-end look.
• Curved Bottom Design: Ensures a perfect fit on most Les Paul tops.
• Complete Set: Includes rings for both neck and bridge positions.
• Classic Fit: Great for Gibson Les Paul LP style guitars.

Pros:
– Enhances the aesthetic of your Les Paul.
– Durable metal construction resists warping.
– Specific heights for neck and bridge ensure proper pickup angle.

Cons:
– Mounting screws are not included.
– Requires careful measurement for compatibility; not a universal fit.
– May require minor sanding for a perfect match with some guitars.

Best for: Players looking to replace old or broken pickup rings, or to upgrade the aesthetic of their Les Paul with durable, precisely fitted metal rings.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate the quality feel and look of these metal rings compared to plastic. The curved bottom is a significant plus for a flush fit, though some noted the importance of double-checking measurements as compatibility isn’t always universal.

Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 Electric Guitar, Ebony

While not a set of standalone pickups, the Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 is an incredibly popular entry point into the world of Les Pauls, and it comes equipped with its own set of humbuckers that deliver classic rock tones right out of the box. For someone just starting or looking for an affordable backup, this complete guitar package is fantastic value. It features a solid mahogany body that contributes to that signature Les Paul sustain and warmth, paired with a comfortable rosewood fretboard. The 700T Humbucker pickups are voiced to offer a good balance of power and clarity, making it versatile enough for various genres. It’s a testament to how good an affordable guitar can sound, proving you don’t always need to spend a fortune to get a great Les Paul experience.

• Mahogany Body: Contributes to classic Les Paul warmth and sustain.
• 700T Humbucker Pickups: Offer versatile classic rock tones.
• Rosewood Fretboard: Provides a smooth playing surface.
• 24.75 Scale: Standard Les Paul scale length for comfortable playability.

Pros:
– Excellent value for a complete guitar.
– Solid tone for its price point, suitable for beginners and practice.
– Durable build quality.

Cons:
– Pickups might be considered an upgrade target for more experienced players.
– Tuners and other hardware are entry-level.
– Limited tonal versatility compared to higher-end models.

Best for: Beginners seeking their first Les Paul, or experienced players looking for an affordable and reliable practice or modding platform.

User feedback summary: New players consistently praise this guitar as a fantastic starter instrument, highlighting its comfortable playability and surprisingly good tone for the price. More seasoned players often see it as a great base for future upgrades, including pickups.

Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack, Vintage Sunburst

If you’re wondering about the “Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars” but also need everything to get started, the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack is an all-in-one solution. This isn’t just a guitar; it’s a complete starter kit, centered around a genuine Les Paul Special-II LTD featuring two classic humbucker pickups. It’s designed to get you playing immediately, including a 10-watt Electra guitar amp, a 10ft guitar cable, a clip-on headstock chromatic tuner, a strap, picks, and even a gig bag. For new guitarists, this pack eliminates the guesswork and provides a solid foundation with pickups that deliver those essential Les Paul sounds, allowing you to focus on learning.

• Complete Starter Kit: Everything needed to begin playing right away.
• Genuine Les Paul Special-II LTD: Features two classic humbucker pickups.
• 10-Watt Electra Amp: Practice-friendly amplifier included.
• Free Downloadable Lessons: Helps new players get started.

Pros:
– Unbeatable value, truly an all-inclusive package.
– Quality Epiphone Les Paul guitar as the centerpiece.
– Humbuckers provide a good starting point for various genres.

Cons:
– Amp and accessories are basic, designed for beginners.
– Pickups, while good for starters, may not satisfy advanced players.
– The “LTD” version is slightly different from the standalone Special-II E1.

Best for: Absolute beginners who want to start playing electric guitar with a Les Paul style instrument and need all the necessary gear in one convenient package.

User feedback summary: New guitarists rave about the comprehensive nature of this pack, finding it incredibly convenient to have everything they need to start learning. The guitar itself is often lauded for its playability and decent tone for a beginner instrument.

Wilkinson WOCHB Ceramic Humbucker Pickups Set for Les Paul

Now we’re talking about actual replacement pickups! If you’re looking to upgrade the stock pickups in your Epiphone or similar Les Paul style guitar without breaking the bank, the Wilkinson WOCHB ceramic humbucker set is a fantastic option. Wilkinson is known for producing quality parts at an affordable price, and these pickups are no exception. They deliver a classic vintage tone without unwanted noise, thanks to their wax potting, providing an authentic sound that’s articulate and powerful. The ceramic magnets give them a punchy output, making them great for rock and blues. Plus, with four conductor wires, you have the flexibility for coil splitting, opening up even more tonal possibilities for your Les Paul.

• Classic Vintage Tone: Delivers authentic sound with ceramic punch.
• Wax Potted: Eliminates unwanted feedback and noise.
• Four Conductor Wires: Allows for coil splitting for increased versatility.
• Genuine Wilkinson Parts: Known for quality and value.

Pros:
– Significant tonal upgrade over many stock entry-level humbuckers.
– Affordable price point for a set of two pickups.
– Coil-splitting capability adds versatility.
– Good output suitable for rock and blues.

Cons:
– Some users may prefer Alnico magnets for a different tonal flavor.
– Mounting screws might not be compatible with all guitars.
– Installation requires soldering and basic wiring knowledge.

Best for: Les Paul owners looking for an affordable yet effective tonal upgrade with a punchy, clear sound and the option for coil splitting, especially those playing rock, blues, or classic metal.

User feedback summary: Many players are genuinely surprised by the quality and tone these Wilkinson pickups offer for their price. They are often recommended as a cost-effective way to revitalize an Epiphone Les Paul’s sound, with the coil-split option being a popular feature.

2Pcs Yootones Electric Guitar Pickups Double Coil

Here’s another solid contender if you’re specifically eyeing new “Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars” on a budget. The Yootones Double Coil Humbucker set is designed to be compatible with Squier Les Paul and similar electric guitars, offering a straightforward replacement for your existing pickups. These are fully wax potted and sealed, a crucial feature that helps eliminate unwanted feedback and noise, especially at higher gain settings. They promise a sturdy and durable build from high-quality materials, ensuring they’ll stand up to regular use. Coming with screws and springs, they’re designed for relatively easy installation, making them a good choice for DIY enthusiasts looking for a tonal refresh.

• Double Coil Humbucker Design: Standard Les Paul pickup type.
• Fully Wax Potted: Minimizes feedback and unwanted noise.
• Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials.
• Easy Installation: Includes screws and springs for quick setup.

Pros:
– Very affordable option for a humbucker set.
– Wax potting is a great feature for noise reduction.
– Comes with necessary mounting hardware.
– Suitable for a range of Les Paul style guitars.

Cons:
– Specific resistance ratings (7.5-15k) are broad; exact tone may vary.
– Some users might find the tone to be less nuanced than higher-end pickups.
– Durability may not match premium brands over the very long term.

Best for: Budget-conscious Les Paul style guitar owners looking for an affordable humbucker replacement that’s wax potted for noise reduction and relatively easy to install.

User feedback summary: Users often highlight the excellent value for money these pickups provide, noting that they offer a noticeable improvement over many basic stock pickups. The wax potting is frequently praised for effectively reducing hum.

Musiclily Pro Metric Thread Plastic Guitar 3 Way Toggle Switch Tip

While not a pickup itself, the toggle switch tip is a small but mighty detail that affects both the feel and look of your Les Paul. If you’re upgrading your guitar’s electronics or simply need a replacement, these Musiclily Pro switch tips are essential. They’re specifically designed for China/Japan/Korea made toggle switches, which are commonly found in Epiphone Les Pauls and some Ibanez or ESP models. It’s vital to note they will NOT fit USA Les Paul or Switchcraft toggle switches due to metric threading. Made from durable plastic in a classic shape, these tips are a quick and easy way to dress up your guitar and ensure smooth, reliable pickup selection.

• Metric Thread Design: Specifically fits Asian-made toggle switches.
• Durable Plastic: Ensures longevity and a comfortable feel.
• Classic Shape: Maintains the traditional Les Paul aesthetic.
• Easy Replacement: Simple to screw on for a quick upgrade or repair.

Pros:
– Affordable and easy way to refresh your guitar’s look.
– Ensures a snug fit for metric threaded switches.
– Comes in a pack of two, providing a spare.

Cons:
– Strictly metric; will not fit US/imperial threaded switches.
– Plastic material, though durable, might not appeal to all users.
– Only the tip, not the entire switch mechanism.

Best for: Les Paul owners with Asian-made guitars (Epiphone, Ibanez, ESP) needing replacement or cosmetic upgrade for their 3-way toggle switch tip.

User feedback summary: Users appreciate the perfect fit for their metric switches, noting that these tips are a cheap and effective way to replace lost or broken originals. The classic look is also a plus for maintaining aesthetic consistency.

Randon 3 Way Short Straight Guitar Toggle Switch Pickup Selector

A reliable pickup selector is non-negotiable for any Les Paul player. The Randon 3 Way Short Straight Guitar Toggle Switch provides a compact and dependable option, ideal for Gibson Les Paul guitars, but also suitable for other guitars or basses. This isn’t just a tip; it’s the entire switch mechanism, ensuring solid connections for your pickup wiring. It boasts a small and exquisite appearance, making it easy to install on your control plate without clutter. The package is comprehensive, including the switch, three caps (giving you options!), a knurled mounting nut, and a flat washer, so you have everything needed for a fresh installation or replacement.

• Complete 3-Way Switch: Includes the full mechanism for pickup selection.
• Small and Exquisite: Compact design for easy installation.
• Versatile Application: Ideal for Gibson Les Paul and other guitars.
• Comprehensive Package: Comes with switch, 3 caps, nut, and washer.

Pros:
– Provides reliable and crisp pickup switching.
– Compact size is convenient for various installations.
– Multiple switch cap options included.

Cons:
– May require soldering for installation.
– Plastic switch tip, though replaceable.
– Some users might prefer an angled switch.

Best for: Les Paul owners (especially Gibson) needing to replace a faulty pickup selector switch or embarking on a wiring upgrade, valuing a complete, compact solution.

User feedback summary: Players find this switch to be a solid, functional replacement, especially for the price. The included caps are a nice bonus, and the overall feel of the switch is reported as positive.

Musiclily Metric 3 Way Short Straight Guitar Toggle Switch Pickup Selector

Another excellent option for your Les Paul’s switching needs, this Musiclily Metric 3 Way Toggle Switch is specifically ideal for Asia-made Les Paul Style guitars. Like its Randon counterpart, this is a complete 3-position pickup selector, crucial for getting those distinct neck, bridge, and middle tones. Made from durable metal alloy with a sleek chrome finish, it not only functions well but also looks the part. It includes the knurled mounting nut and flat washer, simplifying installation. The switch tip is replaceable, allowing for customization if you prefer a different color or material down the line. It’s a robust and reliable choice for maintaining or upgrading your guitar’s electronics.

• 3-Position Selector: Essential for versatile Les Paul tones.
• Metric Threaded Shaft: Specifically designed for Asia-made guitars.
• Durable Metal Alloy: Ensures longevity and reliable performance.
• Chrome Finish: Adds a classic aesthetic to your guitar.

Pros:
– Robust construction provides reliable switching.
– Easy to install with included nut and washer.
– Replaceable switch tip for customization.
– Affordable and effective upgrade or replacement.

Cons:
– Will not fit US-made Les Pauls due to metric threading.
– Requires basic soldering for wiring.
– Limited to straight switch design.

Best for: Owners of Asia-made Les Paul style guitars (e.g., Epiphone) looking for a reliable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing 3-way toggle switch replacement or upgrade.

User feedback summary: Customers frequently mention the good build quality for the price and its perfect fit for their Epiphone guitars. The chrome finish is generally well-received, and the switch action feels solid.

DaierTek 3 Way Guitar Toggle Switch Pickup Selector for Gibson Epiphone

Rounding out our toggle switch options is the DaierTek 3 Way Guitar Toggle Switch, a robust choice widely applied to Gibson Epiphone Les Paul electric guitars. This switch stands out with its strong metal construction and an aluminum anodized black switch tip, giving it a premium look and feel. Designed for longevity, it boasts an impressive mechanical life of over 100,000 cycles and an electrical life of over 10,000 cycles, ensuring it will withstand years of heavy use. The lugs are conveniently tinned for easy soldering, making installation smoother. If you’re looking for a dependable and durable switch that explicitly targets both Gibson and Epiphone Les Pauls, this one is built to last.

• Strong Metal Construction: Ensures durability and a premium feel.
• Aluminum Anodized Tip: Enhanced aesthetics and robust design.
• High Life Cycle: Built for long-term reliability (100,000+ mechanical cycles).
• Tinned Lugs: Facilitates easy soldering for installation.

Pros:
– Exceptional durability and longevity.
– Premium look and feel with the aluminum tip.
– Explicitly compatible with Gibson and Epiphone Les Pauls.
– Easy to solder with tinned lugs.

Cons:
– Slightly larger dimensions than some other switches, ensure cavity fit.
– Only comes with one black tip.
– May be overkill for a very budget-oriented build.

Best for: Les Paul owners (both Gibson and Epiphone) seeking a high-quality, extremely durable 3-way toggle switch that offers robust performance and a premium feel.

User feedback summary: Users consistently praise the sturdy build and solid click of this switch, often noting its superior feel compared to many stock switches. The ease of soldering is also a commonly highlighted benefit.

OVSAL 2 PCS Brass Humbucker Guitar Pickup Covers Neck Bridge

Finally, we have the OVSAL Brass Humbucker Guitar Pickup Covers. While not a pickup themselves, covers play a significant role in both the look of your Les Paul and can subtly affect the tone by shielding. This set of high-quality brass covers undergoes multiple polishing and two electroplating processes, making them scratch-resistant and corrosion-resistant. They’re suitable for the vast majority of Les Paul LP electric guitars and come with distinct pole spacing for neck (50mm) and bridge (52mm) pickups, which is crucial for proper alignment. If your pickups are exposed and you want to give your Les Paul a classic, polished look, or protect your coils, these brass covers are an instant aesthetic upgrade.

• High-Quality Brass Material: Durable, scratch-resistant, and corrosion-resistant.
• Classic Aesthetic Upgrade: Instantly enhances your guitar’s appearance.
• Specific Pole Spacing: 50mm (neck) and 52mm (bridge) for proper fit.
• Protective: Shields pickup coils from dust and damage.

Pros:
– Significantly improves the visual appeal of uncovered humbuckers.
– Adds a layer of protection to your pickup coils.
– Durable finish resists wear and tear.
– Affordable way to achieve a classic Les Paul look.

Cons:
– Requires careful measurement of pole spacing to ensure a perfect fit.
– Can subtly alter tone (often a slight reduction in high-end) by adding mass and shielding.
– Installation requires desoldering and resoldering existing pickup leads.

Best for: Les Paul owners wanting to achieve a classic, covered humbucker look, protect their pickup coils, and are comfortable with the minor tonal nuances and installation process.

User feedback summary: Reviewers are consistently impressed by how much these covers enhance the visual appeal of their Les Pauls, noting the high-quality finish and the accurate pole spacing. The upgrade in appearance is frequently highlighted.

Comparison Insights: Finding Your Les Paul’s Voice

When we talk about the Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars, it’s clear that the journey isn’t just about the coiled wire itself. It’s a holistic approach, where every component plays a role in the final sound and feel.

For those looking for direct tonal upgrades, the Wilkinson WOCHB Ceramic Humbucker Set and the Yootones Double Coil Pickups are your primary contenders. The Wilkinson set offers a more defined “vintage” sound with ceramic punch and the added versatility of coil splitting, making it fantastic for rock and blues players who want to experiment. The Yootones are a super-budget-friendly option, focusing on basic functionality and effective wax potting to eliminate noise, which is a huge plus for high-gain sounds on an entry-level instrument. If you’re serious about tone and have a bit more to spend, the Wilkinson will likely offer more sonic depth, while the Yootones are a great way to fix a noisy or weak stock pickup for minimal cost.

Then we have the full guitar packages, like the Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 and the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack. These aren’t just pickups; they are complete instruments with pickups, designed for accessibility. The Special-II E1 offers a solid foundation with decent stock humbuckers for the price, perfect for a beginner or as a modding platform. The Player Pack takes it a step further, providing everything you need to start playing, from the guitar to the amp and accessories. For absolute newcomers, these packs often represent the “best pickups” by providing a complete, playable solution with Les Paul humbuckers built-in, rather than individual components.

The other products, while not pickups themselves, are crucial supporting cast members for your Les Paul’s performance and aesthetics. The Guyker Curved Bottom Metal Humbucker Pickup Mounting Rings are essential for a professional look and proper pickup height adjustment, a small detail that makes a big visual and functional difference. And if you’re chasing that classic covered humbucker aesthetic, the OVSAL Brass Humbucker Pickup Covers are a straightforward way to achieve it, though you should be mindful of the minor tonal impact and installation.

Finally, we have the toggle switches: the Musiclily Pro Switch Tip, Randon 3 Way Switch, Musiclily Metric 3 Way Switch, and DaierTek 3 Way Switch. These are about reliability and control. The DaierTek stands out for its robust metal construction and high life cycle, making it a premium choice for consistent performance. Both Musiclily options and the Randon switch offer solid, affordable replacements, with the Musiclily Metric being specifically geared towards Asia-made Les Pauls, while the Randon and DaierTek offer more general compatibility or higher durability respectively. A smooth, reliable switch ensures you can change your tones on the fly without issue, which is just as important as the pickups themselves. Choosing the right switch often comes down to your guitar’s origin (metric vs. imperial) and your budget for durability.

Final Verdict

Deciding on the “Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars” really depends on where you’re starting from and what your goals are. If you’re a beginner just diving in, the Epiphone Les Paul Player Pack or the Epiphone Les Paul Special-II E1 offers an incredible jump-off point, giving you an entire instrument with capable humbuckers. You’re getting a complete experience, not just parts.

For those looking to upgrade their existing Les Paul’s tone without breaking the bank, the Wilkinson WOCHB Ceramic Humbucker Set is a clear winner for its balance of vintage tone, modern output, and coil-splitting versatility. It offers the most bang-for-your-buck tonal improvement for a component swap. If budget is extremely tight, the Yootones Double Coil Pickups provide a functional, noise-reduced alternative.

Don’t overlook the impact of supporting hardware. The Guyker Mounting Rings are a must-have for proper pickup installation and a polished look. And for reliable tone switching, the DaierTek 3 Way Toggle Switch stands out for its exceptional durability, making it a sound investment for consistent performance on stage or in the studio. Ultimately, enhancing your Les Paul is about combining the right elements to create a guitar that truly speaks to you.

FAQ Section: Enhancing Your Les Paul’s Sound

Q1: What exactly are humbucker pickups, and why are they common in Les Paul guitars?
A1: Humbucker pickups use two coils wired out of phase to “buck the hum” – essentially cancelling out the 60-cycle hum that single-coil pickups often produce. They’re common in Les Paul guitars because they offer a thicker, warmer, and higher output sound with excellent sustain, which has become a signature characteristic of the Les Paul’s rock and blues tones. Many of the best pickups for Les Paul guitars are humbuckers.

Q2: Can I put any pickups into my Les Paul?
A2: While most Les Pauls are designed for standard humbucker-sized pickups, you can’t always just drop any pickup in. You need to consider the physical dimensions, pole piece spacing (which often differs between neck and bridge), and whether you prefer passive or active pickups (active pickups require a battery). Always check the specifications of your guitar and the new pickups for compatibility.

Q3: Do pickup covers (like the OVSAL Brass Humbucker Covers) affect my guitar’s tone?
A3: Yes, pickup covers can subtly affect tone. Metal covers, especially brass, can slightly reduce the high-end frequencies and sometimes increase microphonics (unwanted feedback) if not properly wax potted with the pickup. However, many players find the tonal change negligible or even desirable for a warmer sound. The primary benefit is aesthetic and protective.

Q4: Is it hard to install new Best Pickups for Les Paul Guitars myself?
A4: Installing new pickups requires some basic soldering skills and understanding of guitar wiring. For a simple swap, it’s often manageable for a DIY enthusiast. However, if you’re adding coil-splitting or complex wiring, it can get more intricate. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a professional guitar technician to avoid damage.

Q5: What’s the difference between metric and imperial toggle switches, and why does it matter?
A5: Metric and imperial refer to the thread sizes on the switch shaft and mounting hardware. Metric switches are typically found on Asian-made guitars (like Epiphone Les Pauls), while imperial switches are common on USA-made guitars (like Gibson Les Pauls). They are not interchangeable. Using the wrong type will result in the switch not fitting or stripping the threads, so it’s crucial to know your guitar’s origin when buying a replacement toggle switch.

Q6: Beyond just pickups, what else can I upgrade on my Les Paul to improve its sound or playability?
A6: Besides the best pickups for Les Paul guitars, several other upgrades can make a big difference:
* Wiring harness: Upgrading pots, capacitors, and output jack can improve clarity and tone shaping.
* Bridge and tailpiece: High-quality hardware can enhance sustain and tuning stability.
* Tuning machines: Locking tuners or higher-ratio tuners improve tuning stability and speed.
* Nut: A bone or TUSQ nut can improve sustain and eliminate string binding.
* Frets: A professional fret level or refret can drastically improve playability.