Calculate Guitar String Tension
TensionLab calculates precise string tension using the physics formula T = (UW × (2 × L × F)²) / 386.4, where UW is the manufacturer-verified unit weight, L is your scale length, and F is the target note frequency. Unlike generic calculators, TensionLab uses brand-specific unit weight data from D'Addario, Ernie Ball, Elixir, GHS, DR Strings, Stringjoy, Curt Mangan, and more — so your tension numbers match what the manufacturer publishes.
Features
- 1000+ String Sets — Browse and compare string sets from every major brand with real tension data.
- Any Tuning — E Standard, Drop D, Drop C, Open G, DADGAD, or fully custom tunings.
- Any Scale Length — From 20" travel guitars to 30" baritones. Multiscale and fanned fret support with per-string scale length interpolation.
- 6 to 9 Strings — Full support for 7-string, 8-string, and 9-string extended-range guitars.
- Bass Guitar — 4, 5, and 6-string bass tension calculations.
- Balanced Tension Analysis — See how evenly tension is distributed across your strings. Compare balanced vs. progressive tension profiles.
- Smart Recommendations — RigLogic scores every string set on four dimensions: preference match, balance, playability, and stability.
- Multi-Guitar Comparison — Compare tension profiles across multiple guitars side by side.
- Cloud Sync — Save your guitars and access them from any device.
- Works Offline — Install as a Progressive Web App for offline access.
How Much Tension Should Guitar Strings Have?
For a standard electric guitar with a 25.5" scale length tuned to E Standard, typical per-string tension ranges from 14 to 21 lbs depending on gauge and feel preference. A standard .010–.046 set produces roughly 100–110 lbs of total tension. Light feel targets around 14–16 lbs per string, balanced feel is 16–18 lbs, and firm feel is 19–21 lbs. Bass guitars typically run 35–45 lbs per string.
String Tension for Drop Tunings
Drop tunings lower one or more strings, reducing tension. To maintain playable tension in Drop C (CGCFAD), you typically need a .011–.056 or .012–.060 set. The low C string needs at least a .052 gauge to avoid feeling loose. For Drop D, a standard .010–.046 set usually works, but players who want firmer low-end tension may prefer a .010–.052 hybrid set. TensionLab lets you compare hundreds of sets to find the best match.
7-String, 8-String & Extended Range Guitar Tension
Extended-range guitars add lower strings that need careful tension management. A 7-string in B Standard typically uses a .059–.064 for the low B to maintain around 15–17 lbs of tension. TensionLab calculates tension for every string individually, ensuring your extended-range setup is balanced from the highest to the lowest string.
Multiscale & Fanned Fret Tension Calculator
Multiscale guitars use different scale lengths for treble and bass strings — for example, 25.5" on the treble side and 27" on the bass side. This naturally increases bass string tension without needing heavier gauges. TensionLab interpolates the correct scale length for each string position and calculates tension accordingly, giving you accurate data for any fanned-fret instrument.
String Tension by Material
String material affects tension because different alloys have different densities. For the same gauge, stainless steel strings produce slightly higher tension than nickel-plated steel, while pure nickel produces slightly less. Coated strings like Elixir Optiweb and Elixir Nanoweb have marginally different unit weights. TensionLab uses manufacturer-specific data for each brand and material combination.
Supported Brands
D'Addario, Ernie Ball, Elixir, GHS, DR Strings, Stringjoy, Curt Mangan, Martin, La Bella, Rotosound, Dunlop, and more — 1000+ string sets with verified unit weight data.