Calculate exact string tension in pounds for any gauge, scale length, and tuning. Essential when switching tunings, building a custom set, or picking strings for drop-tunings.
String tension is the force pulling between the nut and bridge when a string is tuned to pitch. It changes three things you actually feel: how hard you have to press to fret, how much the neck bows, and how the string responds to bends and vibrato.
A typical 6-string electric in standard tuning runs 95-110 lbs of total tension. Drop a whole step to D standard and you lose 15-20 lbs — strings feel floppy. Use heavier gauges to compensate.
Tension (T) = (unit weight) × (2 × scale length × frequency)². The unit weight depends on the string's diameter and density. Doubling the gauge roughly doubles the unit weight; doubling scale length quadruples tension at the same pitch.
That's why a 25.5" Fender Strat feels tighter than a 24.75" Gibson Les Paul at the same gauge and tuning — about 11% more tension on every string.
If you tune down a whole step, increase gauge by about 1-2 thousandths to keep tension similar. Common conversions:
Once you've found your tension, see our music gear reviews for tested string brands and how they tone-shape.