Tenor ukuleles are regarded as the perfect choice for anyone who wants to get into the world of ukulele and music. It doesn’t matter whether you’re just starting or a seasoned pro tenor ukulele provides the best of both worlds and meets your demands.
What most people disregard at first is how important your strings are when it comes to the ukulele. The perfect string can make or break your ukulele experience. There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to picking up the best string out there, as the same string can sound different in two separate ukuleles.
But we believe that our top picks for the ‘Best Tenor Ukulele Strings’ will help you to find the strings that you’re looking for in the sea of options.
Buying Guide
Before we jump right into what are the best strings out there, we need to clarify some features that are a must for picking out the strings that are made just for you. It may seem difficult at the first sight but we’ll guide you through it.
Understanding Length
Every string has a different length and sizes respectfully to its type of ukulele. There are four types of ukuleles and if you pick the strings for another type of ukulele for your tenor ukulele then it won’t match perfectly.
Tenor ukuleles the strings must be 26 inches long and 17 inches wide as they should be scaled with the fretboard. You can use the concert and baritone’s string for emergency measures as they are 23 inches and 30 inches long respectfully, although it’s not recommended.
But you should never try to attach soprano strings as they are only 21 inches long and won’t be fit to the fretboard of your tenor ukulele.
Without matching the length of your tenor ukulele no string can function properly and you will end up with an awful pitched terrible ukulele until you change the strings so make sure to match the length of the strings you’re considering to buy.
Know the types
Now that you know about the length that is required you must decide what type of ukulele strings you should go for. While considering the types you must pick a type that is comfortable in your hands, gives off the tune and pitch that you prefer.
Choosing the strings based on their types is extremely important. Not every type will be suitable for you. Before going for any string without giving a thought, consider the essential factors wisely and then go for an informed decision.
There are several types of ukulele strings out there but all of them are based on the following 6 types of strings:
- Nylon Strings
- Fluorocarbon Strings
- Titanium Strings
- Steel Strings
- Wound Nylon Strings
- Wound Metal Strings
Nylon Strings
As the name suggests these types of strings are made of nylon, they are the descendants of the more traditional gut strings that were produced from using the intestines of livestock animals.
Nylon strings are durable and also have a good resistance against humidity but there’s always a downside and for nylon strings, it getting out of tune faster than other strings as it can hold onto one tuning for a long time.
Warmer and mellow tunes are what nylon strings are known for, so if you’re looking to go for more strumming options that are similar to Hawaiian soft music the nylon should be your best bet.
Fluorocarbon Strings
Originally invented to use as fishing line these polymer strings are a more advanced version of nylon strings.
Fluorocarbon strings are more durable and have a higher temperature resistance than their nylon counterpart. It also seems to be able to keep its tune for a long period without facing any pitch issues.
These strings give off a brighter sound and give a softer feel to your notes so it’s viable for a little picking and strumming at the same time.
Titanium Strings
These types of strings are created in the thought of durability and volume, titanium strings provide just that thus they can be referred to as the superior version of the nylon and fluorocarbon strings.
Titanium strings are monofilament strings but as they are metal strings, they provide more durability and because of that it’s highly unlikely for them to snap or break under pressure when playing.
The sound created from titanium strings is louder and brighter. So, if you’re looking for a set of strings that can provide loud volume and more bright sounds then titanium strings are the way to go.
Steel Strings
Steel strings are not conventional for the ukulele as they are more prone to large instruments like guitars and others. Made with steel coated polymers these strings have high durability but at the risk of damaging the neck, top, or the bridge of your ukulele.
The sound quality although not much preferred but if you want to sort of twangy bright sound from your ukulele then steel strings might be an option but you should consult your ukulele’s manufacturer before buying.
Wound Nylon Strings
A combination and a split between nylon and steel strings is something that can be described as a wound nylon string. They have a nylon core that is coated with polymer creating a thin polymer thread with nylon at its middle.
These strings boast strong durability and humidity resistance due to the steel coating of polymer.
The sound quality is richer than of a standard taste and more preferred for tenor and baritone ukuleles thus it should be a good pick for you.
Wound Metal Strings
These types of strings are in a position where they are not regarded as a wound nylon string or a steel string. Wound metal strings have a metal core instead of a polymer one compared to a wound nylon string. Otherwise, they are the same.
Using these strings your ukulele will sound more like a guitar and will provide the brightest sounds you can get without hitting the same pitch of steel strings.
Tuning of your Ukulele
The last thing to consider before choosing your ukulele strings is tuning. Whether you want to go for standard tuning or you want to tame down or up for your songs and tunes. The standard for the tenor ukulele is also divided into two types of tuning.
- Low G
- High G
Low G or the standard G is the common tuning for ukuleles. Here the pitch of the G string is tuned to stay lower than the C string for a good bass feel. But if you’re looking for that sweet Hawaiian feel then this is not the option as the lower bass tune comes as an odd tune when going for those mellow notes.
On the other hand, high G makes the sound of the G string higher than the C string of your ukulele and thus provides a soft high-pitched sound that is great for mellow, warm strumming but at the same time sounds out of place when you try fingering on it.
So, it is up to your choice on what type of G string you want. Make sure what type of tuning will your ukulele have and then proceed afterward.
Best Tenor Ukulele Strings of 2021
Image | Product | Features | Price | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Aquila Nylgut | Both low G & high G strings Tensile & Heat Resistant Handcrafted | $10-$12 | |
 | D’Addario Pro-Arté | Nylon Strings Available in various sizes Suitable for concert use | $7-$9 | |
 | D’Addario Titanium | Titanium Strings Monofilament Material Coating Strong Build | $4-$6 | |
 | LaBella 13 | Nylon Strings Aluminum Coating Good Tuning | $6-$8 | |
 | C.F Martin | Fluorocarbon Strings Travel Ready Good Volume | $7-$9 | |
 | GHS H-10 | Wound Nylon String Colored Strings Comfortable polymer | $2-$4 | |
 | Martin M600 | Fluorocarbon Strings Loud Surrounding Volume Holds Tune | $5-$14 | |
 | Aquila Red Series AQ-88 | Wound Metal Strings Good for Lead Large Volume | $10-$13 |
1. Aquila Super Nylgut AQ-106 - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
The Nylgut is one of the most preferred strings from ukulele players all across the globe. The synthetic build with great resistance and the smooth surface of the Nylgut is one of its core selling points.
For tenor ukuleles, they are best for both standard low G and high G tuning capable strings that are very essential for artists out there.
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2. D'Addario EJ53C Pro-Arté - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
The reputation of D’Addario speaks for itself and the Pro-Arté is one the best of their line of ukulele strings. They can be used for different types of playstyle from concerts to your homeroom musicals they are capable of producing the ward and beautiful music that you expect from the best in the business.
So, if you want to get the most appreciated standard tuned string then this is the best option out there for you.
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3. D’Addario EJ87B Titanium - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
D’Addario Titanium produces a better brighter
tone than the rest out there so you get intense clarity and volume along with
warm sound overall. Its coating is also for providing a smooth feel while
playing. So, if you’re looking for higher-pitched yet nice volumed strings then
this might be the choice for you.
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4. LaBella 13 - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
LaBella 13 is made for hitting the lower notes more perfectly. With its aluminum coating, it covers for those low notes that otherwise may sound damp and cold. With quick and easy stretch and long length, this type of string ensures the perfect harmony for the users.
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5. C.F Martin - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
This set of ukuleles from C.F is best for traveling musicians as its unique features give it an edge over the competitors by providing long-time tune capabilities and a smooth feel that’s up to the point of perfection.
With a good durable build from fluorocarbon, these strings can become your go-to option if you are always on the road.
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6. GHS H-10 - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
If looks are important to you the H-10 is a string set made for you. Their unique black design is not only recognizable but also the only black strings that can perform with their design.
With comfortable nylon strings, these black strings can give your tenor ukulele the style that you always wanted.
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7. Martin M600 - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
Martin knows how to make strings and M600 is made for the warm and loud feeling that you want when you’re playing the ukulele for a special occasion.
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8. Aquila Red Series AQ-88 - Best Tenor Ukulele Strings
Aquila’s Red series is renowned for its high-quality strings that give off the utmost comfort feel that you can wish for. It has a greater volume than standard strings and also provides the sturdiness that is required for finger-picking sessions.
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A Crucial Step
It won’t matter how good your strings are if you can’t change them properly or worse damage the ukulele during that process. It’s quite simple to change the strings of your ukulele. You just need to do it slowly and calmly.
First of all, get rid of your previous strings and keep in mind that you don’t damage any of the keys while removing the strings. Ukulele strings are made to form a knot easily so your main focus should be not breaking the strings with too much pressure.
For your convenience, the strings should come in packets that have their name on them like G, C, E & A. Put the strings into your ukulele accordingly. If you stay cautious and follow the steps properly you will easily be able to change the strings properly.
Final Thoughts
Tenor ukuleles are the middle point and one of the most sought out ukuleles out there. It’s ready for both stage performances and just some small idle note for yourself or your friends and family. Aside from the build and wood of the ukulele the strings are what makes or breaks the performance.
We know finding the perfect string set for your ukulele is tough but if you’ve come this far, it’s safe to assume that you have found your desired strings but don’t just stop here. Try different strings so that you can understand if your current ones are better or should you upgrade to another one.
Because one set of strings can sound completely different in another ukulele. But, our pick of the best tenor ukulele strings is sure to have that string you’re looking for, or perhaps it has multiple strings that will match your taste. So, go out there and taste them to be sure.
You may also like to read: How to Change Ukulele Strings.
