Guitar power chord advice?

Question

For all you guitar players out there, what is the best way to hold power chords, using three fingers (index, ring and pinky) or two (index and pinky)? I've seen it done both ways, but I just want to know which you think is the best.

Answer 1

A power chord is usually played with two notes, on two strings, the first and the fifth note of the scale. Keep it to two fingers. If your fingers are shortish, the index and pinkie will work the best. I usually use the index and ring finger. Rock on!

Answer 2

I saw two people answer your question mentioning power chords using 2 strings (the two fattest strings of the full chord you're trying to do). This is an awesome method, I used it for years.
Get used to using the heel of your right hand to keep the other strings from ringing, and to get that "thumping" or "chunk, chunk" sound that you hear in metal/hardcore bands, etc..
This doesn't mean you shouldn't learn the whole chord though, it has it's charm too.
Using whatever fingers feel comfortable for you is always the best way, you'll eventually develop your own technique.

Answer 3

If it's chords all the way through than I recommend playing with 3 note chords. It makes the music sound "fuller". If you're playing fast chord progressions, or leads changing into chords quickly, than stick to 2 note chords. Basically what I'm saying is if it's slow use 3 notes, and if it's fast use 2 notes.

Answer 4

i use 2

Answer 5

I started out the secong way you described but eventually I learned the bar chord you first mentioned and it sounded better and richer!

Answer 6

It would depend on the style of the song and the dynamics one is looking for. It is completely subjective to your personal likings.