Guitar String Tension Calculator

Calculate the tension of any string based on scale length, pitch, and unit weight.

Scale Length (L)

Distance from nut to bridge saddle (e.g., Fender=25.5″, Gibson=24.75″). Please enter a valid scale length between 10 and 40 inches.

Target Note / Frequency (f)

Custom Frequency

The fundamental frequency the string vibrates at. Please enter a valid frequency between 10 and 2000 Hz.

Unit Weight (UW)

lb/in

Linear density of the specific string (often found on manufacturer spec sheets). E.g., 0.00002215. Please enter a valid unit weight > 0.

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Calculated Tension

16.21lbs

≈ 7.35 kg

Formula Used: Tension (T) = (f × 2 × L)² × UW / 386.4
Note: This calculator uses the standard physics formula for ideal vibrating strings. Actual tension may vary slightly based on string construction, material inconsistencies, and the break angle over the nut/bridge.