Guitar String Tension Calculator
Enter your guitar's scale length, target tuning frequency, and the string's unit weight (found on manufacturer tension charts) to estimate the resulting tension in pounds.
About this calculator
Estimate the tension on a guitar string based on scale length, tuning pitch, and string unit weight to help choose the right gauge for feel and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is string unit weight?
Unit weight (UW) is a value specific to each string gauge and material provided by manufacturers, representing mass per unit length, used to calculate tension.
Why does tuning down reduce tension?
Lowering pitch reduces the vibrating frequency, and since tension scales with the square of frequency, even small tuning drops significantly reduce string tension.
What's a comfortable tension range for guitar strings?
Most players prefer total tension across all six strings between roughly 90-100 lbs for standard tuning, though this varies by playing style and preference.