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Guitar String Tension and Gauge Calculator

Save a setup you like, change the tuning or scale, and compare each string. Listed gauges use construction-specific historical reference data, with the method visible below.

Construction-specific reference model: historical D’Addario plain steel and XL nickel-wound weights. These values do not represent every brand, current production run, acoustic string, or bass string.

These six-string sets change gauges and construction while keeping your tuning and scale lengths. For seven or eight strings, choose each gauge in the table.

Strings run from lowest pitch to highest. Per-string scale controls support multiscale instruments.
StringNote + octaveConstructionGauge (inches)Scale (inches)Tension (lbf)Change from reference
617.47No matching reference
519.52No matching reference
418.39No matching reference
316.55No matching reference
215.37No matching reference
116.20No matching reference

Total reference tension: 103.50 lbf

Per-string tension matters more than the total alone. Nut fit, relief, action, intonation, and tremolo balance may need attention after a change.

Capture a setup you like, then compare another tuning or scale length.

Data and calculation method

Tension in pounds-force = unit weight × (2 × scale length × frequency)² ÷ 386.4. Scale is inches; unit weight is pounds per inch. Notes use A4 = 440 Hz in equal temperament.

Historical D’Addario technical chart (PDF mirror). Listed PL and NW values are used without estimating wound-string mass from diameter. Preset pack gauges identify familiar combinations; current manufacturer tension figures can differ from this historical reference.

Nearest-gauge matching minimizes the difference in calculated tension within the selected construction. It does not guarantee identical feel or physical fit.

How to use this tool

  1. Choose a tuning, string set, and actual speaking scale length.
  2. Capture the current setup as your reference before making changes.
  3. Compare each string or match the reference using the nearest listed gauges.

Worked example

The archived PL010 reference at 25.5 inches and E4 gives about 16.2 lbf. Lowering the same string by two semitones keeps about 79.4% of that tension.

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Put the result to use

Guitar String Tension: Formula, Data and Practical Comparisons

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Guitar string gauge chart with common electric, acoustic and bass sets, plus how gauge, wound strings and construction affect tension and setup.

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String Gauge for Drop C: Choose by Scale Length and Feel

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Guitar Scale Length: Compare Reach, Tension and Feel

Understand guitar scale length, how it affects string tension, reach and bends, and why 24.75 and 25.5 inch necks feel different to play.

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Drop D Tuning: Notes, Chords and Setup Checks

Drop D tuning explained: the notes from low to high, how much tension the low string loses, one-finger power chords and setup checks to make.

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