Just like with quickdraws, there are certain things to consider when shopping for carbiners. Different tasks require different tools and the three main categories to consider would be the shape, gate opening and weight/strength.
| Shape | Pro | Con |
| D shape carabiner |
Strongest shape Larger gate opening than Oval Shape |
Smaller gate opening than Asymmetric D Heavier than Asymmetric D More expensive than Oval Shape |
| Asymmetric D Carabiner |
Large gate opening Strong and light |
More expensive Not as strong as D Shape |
| Pear Shape |
Large gate opening Designed for belaying and rappelling |
Heavier and more expensive than most other carabiners Not as strong as D & Asymmetric D shape |
| Oval Shape |
Limits load shifting Can hold more gear than D Shape |
Not as strong as other shapes Smaller gate opening than other shapes Heavier than other shapes |
The Gate openings are the same here as they were with the quickdraws. Main categories to look out for are straight, bend or wiregate carabiners.
| gate opening | pro | con |
| straight |
durable and easy to use available with keylock system |
heavier than wiregate |
| bent |
clipping rope is easier durable available with keylock system |
heavier than wiregate |
| wire |
lightweight reduce gate lash less likely to freeze shut |
less durable than straight&bent gate |
