Delrin Vs. Tortex Guitar Picks | What’s The Difference?

Out of all the confusion around some of the guitar pick materials, none are more so than that of Tortex vs Delrin. The problem with these two guitar picks is that they are so similar yet so different at the same time.

As much of an oxymoron as that may seem, I will attempt to uncover once and for all the difference between Tortex and Delrin plectrums.

Is Tortex Delrin?

To simply answer this question, I can conclusively say yes, Tortex is essentially Delrin in that most of its makeup is that of the Delrin material. However, there are still some definite differences in both the tone as well as the feel of these two guitar picks.

One thing regarding Tortex for sure is its popularity over the last 30 years since its inception. Not only is it probably the most widely used guitar pick but also one of the best guitar picks as well as being the most versatile in terms of style too.

Tortex is not only used by guitarists but they make great bass picks, as well other stringed instruments such as mandolins and ukuleles.

What I am basically saying is that Tortex guitar picks can be used for both electric and acoustic guitar as well as bass and a multitude of other genres and styles.

So What’s The Difference between Delrin & Tortex?

Ultimately, the biggest separating factor between Delrin and Tortex is their Texture i.e. the way in which they feel in your fingers. Tortex guitar picks have a rougher texture and feel when compared to straight Delrin picks which feel a lot smoother.

You can test this out yourself next you have the chance to hold each of these picks in your hand, rub your fingers between each pick and you’ll immediately notice that the Tortex has a much rougher almost chalk-like feeling whereas the Delrin picks are smoother.

In my opinion, Delrin’s picks are a lot more slippery and I genuinely believe that Tortex plectrums were designed to take this downside of Delrin and turn it into one of the most popular guitar picks on the planet.

Difference In Sound Between Delrin & Tortex

Tortex is famous for its brighter and snappier attack whereas are full Delrin picks tend to be softer when it comes to attack.

However, for most (including myself until becoming aware of it) the Tortex and Delrin tend to some very similar to one another.

Do I prefer Delrin vs. Tortex?

If you read my blog then you know that Tortex has always been the guitar pick I prefer and go back to no matter what. For that reason, I have to say that I prefer Tortex over Delrin.

I especially like the feel and texture of the Tortex pick by Dunlop when compared to regular Delrin picks.

If you enjoyed this article, check out my comparison between Utex vs Tortex.