Guitar String Tension Calculator

How to Use This Calculator

1. Enter the String Gauge in decimal inches (e.g., 0.046 for the low E).
2. Enter the Scale Length of your guitar (Fender = 25.5", Gibson = 24.75").
3. Enter the Unit Weight from the D'Addario or GHS string tension guide.
4. Enter the Pitch Frequency in Hz (low E2 = 82.41 Hz).
5. Use the Standard Tuning tab to calculate total set tension across all 6 strings.

Formula

Example

Frequently Asked Questions

• How is guitar string tension calculated? ▼
  The formula is T = UW × (2 × L × f)² / 386.4, where UW = unit weight of the string (lb/in), L = scale length (inches), and f = pitch frequency (Hz). This gives tension in pounds.
• Does scale length affect string tension? ▼
  Yes, significantly. A longer scale length requires higher tension for the same pitch and gauge. A Fender at 25.5" will have about 6% more tension than a Gibson at 24.75". This is why baritone guitars need heavier gauges.
• What is the ideal string tension for a guitar? ▼
  Most electric guitars work best with 12–20 lbs per string, and 90–120 lbs total for all 6 strings. This provides playability without excessive neck relief. Acoustic guitars typically run higher (around 150–175 lbs total).
• What gauge strings should I use for Drop C? ▼
  For Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D) on a 25.5" scale, the low C string needs at least a 0.052" gauge to maintain playable tension (~17 lbs). Many players use 0.054" or 0.056" for better tone and feel.

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