When buying new ukulele strings, one question comes up fast: which set actually fits my ukulele? The key rule first: ukulele strings are size-specific. A soprano set will not simply fit a tenor, and the baritone uses a completely different tuning.
This guide shows which string set belongs to which size, which tuning sits behind it and how the common materials differ. That way you find the right set without trial and error.
01Why strings are size-specific
Soprano, concert and tenor have different scale lengths. For all three to sound in the same tuning, the strings are built differently per size in gauge and length. A soprano string would be too short and too slack on a tenor, a tenor string too tight on a soprano. That is why each size has its own set.
The baritone is a different animal altogether: it is larger and also tuned lower, so it needs its own thicker set. The bass ukulele likewise takes its own special strings. In short: work out your ukulele size first, then pick the matching set.
02Tuning: G-C-E-A or D-G-B-E
Soprano, concert and tenor share the classic ukulele tuning G-C-E-A. In the most common version the G string is high (re-entrant, the bright bell-like ukulele timbre). For a fuller, deeper sound, players choose a Low-G set where the G string drops an octave.
The baritone is classically tuned D-G-B-E, just like the four high strings of a guitar. That makes it sound more guitar-like and a popular switch for guitarists. Important: do not tune a D-G-B-E set up to G-C-E-A, that overstresses both strings and instrument.
| Size | Standard tuning | Matching set |
|---|---|---|
| Soprano | G-C-E-A (high G) | soprano set |
| Concert | G-C-E-A (high G) | concert set |
| Tenor | G-C-E-A, optional Low-G | tenor set (high or Low-G) |
| Baritone | D-G-B-E | baritone set (on request) |
| Bass | E-A-D-G | special bass set |
03Soprano and concert: warm and easy
For soprano and concert a Nylgut set is the proven standard. Aquila Nylgut is a synthetic gut material that captures the warm, traditional ukulele tone very well while staying far more tuning-stable than plain nylon. It ships on many instruments from the factory and is a safe choice if you simply want a good, round sound.
For the soprano reach for the Aquila Ukulelensaiten Satz 4U Sopran, for the concert the Aquila Ukulelensaiten Satz 7U Konzert. If you prefer a brighter, more precise tone, the Martin M600 Fluorcarbon Ukulele Saiten Sopran/Konzert in fluorocarbon offer a clear, cutting alternative.
04Tenor: high G, Low-G and more choice
The tenor is the most versatile size, so the string choice is broad. It sounds classic and bright with a high-G set: the smooth, cutting feel of the D'Addario EJ87T Titanium Ukulelensaiten Satz, Tenor in titanium adds noticeably more projection, the Aquila Ukulelensaiten Satz 10U Tenor in Nylgut stays the warm classic, and the Hannabach Ukulelensaiten Satz Tenor Hawaii Tuning is another proven option.
For a fuller, deeper low end, fit a Low-G set such as the D‘Addario EJ65TLG Saiten für Tenorukulele Low G. The high G string is swapped for a lower one, so the ukulele sounds deeper and closer to a guitar.
05Baritone and bass: the special cases
The baritone sits tonally between ukulele and guitar. Its D-G-B-E set is thicker and tuned lower than its smaller siblings. We carry a matching baritone set on request, so it is not orderable from every product page, but it is available.
The bass ukulele is its own chapter: it needs special, often rubbery-soft bass strings. With the Aquila Bass Ukulele Saiten Thundergut you get the right set for the full, deep tone of a U-Bass-style ukulele.
06Materials in brief
Nylon sounds soft and warm, is cheap and forgiving, but a touch less tuning-stable. Nylgut (Aquila) imitates real gut, sounds warm and traditional and is the tuning-stable quasi-standard. Fluorocarbon (for example Martin) is thinner, brighter and more precise with long sustain and slightly higher tension. Titanium (D'Addario) sits in between, offering more projection and a smooth feel.
Which material is right depends on the tone you want. Our materials guide goes into detail. One note for restringing: new ukulele strings stretch over several days and drift out of tune more at first. That is normal, just retune more often and the set settles. When a change is due is covered in our restringing article, and our size guide helps you pick yours.
The rule of thumb stays simple: work out your ukulele size first, then pick the matching set, and choose the material by the tone you want. With the right set even an affordable ukulele sounds noticeably better.
Frequently asked questions
Can I fit any string set on any ukulele?
What tuning does my ukulele use?
What does Low-G mean?
Which string material is best for beginners?
Why does my ukulele keep going out of tune after restringing?
Find the right string set
Sets for soprano, concert, tenor and bass, sorted by size and material.
All ukulele stringsAquila soprano setPassende Produkte
Martin M600 Fluorocarbon Ukulele Strings Soprano/Concert
D'Addario EJ87T Titanium Ukulele String Set, Tenor
Hannabach Ukulele String Set Tenor Hawaii Tuning
D'Addario EJ65TLG Strings for Tenor Ukulele Low G
