How to choose guitar strings? [Practical guide]

How to choose guitar strings? It all depends on your musical instrument

The type of strings you pick depends on your guitar. The classical guitar uses nylon strings, which are softer and can be used without a pick. Since they are more pleasant to the touch and can adapt, they are great for beginners.

Acoustic guitar strings are a little different. Acoustic guitars have metal strings that are sharper, and playing only with your fingers is harder. It is therefore important to get a guitar pick to make playing easier and more enjoyable. There are numerous picks on the market. You can select from different colours and attractive patterns.

You probably know what strings your guitar needs, because you play it regularly. But for beginners, it's important to remind that you can't put metal strings on a classical guitar. If you did, the guitar neck could bend or break. The opposite is also true, but if you used nylon strings on an acoustic guitar, you would not break it. It just wouldn't sound the way it should.

The right gauges

A key parameter for selecting guitar strings is their gauge. Both metallic and nylon strings have several stages, based on which they are also divided.

Nylon guitar strings

Nylon strings are usually divided into two basic groups:

normal tension

hard tension

Normal tension is a variant designed especially for beginners. It is comfortable and people less accustomed to playing do not hurt their fingertips as much. Hard tension is suitable for experienced players.

Metal guitar strings

Metal strings are a bit different. In this case, you will come across various thickness categories marked with numbers from 9 to 13.

• Category 9 - 10 – are suitable for playing without a pick. You will get your money's worth here, especially in the case of an acoustic guitar. The strings for an electric guitar are a little different. Lovers of electric guitars use metal strings of categories 9 - 10 for pop or soul. They are definitely not very suitable for rock or heavy metal, because they are flexible, and you can detune them when pressed hard. In general, you need to be light-handed when using soft strings. However, if you are gentle, you will be rewarded with a relatively long tone and greater ease.
• Category 10 – this is the golden mean, these strings can be described as relatively soft. They are suitable for all genres except rock and heavy metal.
• Category 11 – represents a compromise between hard and soft strings. It is popular with many musicians who want a universal variant. Even when pressed harder, you don't detune them, and they don't mind rough handling. If you want to learn to play the guitar and play on these strings regularly, don't forget to get a pick.
• Category 12-13 – For lovers of harder music, such as rock or heavy metal, it's a good idea to reach for strings from the latest categories. A pick is necessary in this case. The advantage of hard strings is that they do not get damaged even with worse and insensitive handling. But they can torment beginners because they hurt their hands.

Material

We have already said something about the material. For beginners, it is usually enough to know the division into nylon and metal. They can go shopping just based on this knowledge. However, advanced players will want to take a look at a more detailed division. The reason is that each material will give you something different.

Metal strings are divided into three basic categories:

• Steel – they are characterized by a metallic and treble sound. They work very well and are durable, so they can withstand insensitive handling.
• Nickel – they are known to provide a slightly warmer and rounder tone.
• Nickel wound – it is a perfect combination of both materials. The strings represent the golden mean. They are the most represented on the market.

Buying nylon strings is a bit easier, as you will most often encounter 80/20 bronze. This material is a combination of copper and zinc, which will give you a very nice sound. You will enjoy purity and clarity while playing. A minor disadvantage of these strings is the fact that they are subject to rapid corrosion. If you want to avoid it, choose a string design containing phosphorus admixture.

The price for such a product is usually higher, but it's definitely worth it. You won't have to change the strings so often, which will theoretically save you money.

Number of pieces

You can choose guitar strings in several variants. Professionals and experienced musicians always have numerous pieces in their collection. They can be replaced immediately if necessary. Buying strings one by one is not very convenient, especially when you play regularly and a string can break anytime.

Price

We do not recommend saving on strings. This is the part of the guitar that you use regularly. You need them to create sound. Their quality is subsequently reflected in what is based on the musical instrument. You will have to constantly change cheap guitar strings, as they will crack or otherwise be destroyed manually.

Quality strings typically have a special finish to keep the strings from breaking even if mishandled. Therefore, their final price is slightly higher.

There is one way to save on guitar strings. All you have to do is to buy larger packages that effectively reduce the price of one string. You can also track promotions and shop only when the product is on sale.

Pro tip
Advanced guitarists can also track the thickness of the strings, which affects how the guitar plays and how the strings can be used. However, this is usually just a detail, and the gauge or material itself is more important.

Which guitar strings to choose? Personal experience matters

Everyone has a different style of playing. Some play softer, others hard and insensitively. You have to try the various strings. Some may not feel right, even if they are made of the preferred material or have the required thickness.

You will find out which brands are best for you and which products will suit you best only when you test them.

Choose the right strings

Selecting and purchasing guitar strings is a challenging process for beginners. Make it easy with our practical tips. Reach for a type that will fit not only your guitar, but also your style of playing, making tuning your guitar a piece of cake.