How to Tune a Ukulele
Standard ukulele tuning is G4 - C4 - E4 - A4, also called "high G" or re-entrant tuning. The 4th string (G) is tuned higher than the 3rd string (C), which gives the ukulele its bright, chimey strum. Soprano, concert and tenor ukuleles all use this tuning.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | G4 | 392.00 Hz |
| 3 | C4 | 261.63 Hz |
| 2 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
| 1 | A4 | 440.00 Hz |
Used on: Soprano, concert and tenor
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Step by Step
- Hold the ukulele so the strings face out. The string closest to your face is the 4th string (G), the one closest to the floor is the 1st string (A).
- Click "Start Mic" and allow microphone access. Pluck one string at a time and let it ring.
- The tuner detects which string you are playing. If the note is flat, tighten the string; if it is sharp, loosen it. Stop when the meter is centered and turns green.
- Work through G, C, E and A, then check all four once more. New nylon strings stretch a lot and drop in pitch for the first few days.
Other Ukulele Tunings
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the notes of a ukulele in standard tuning?
From the 4th string to the 1st: G4 (392.00 Hz), C4 (261.63 Hz), E4 (329.63 Hz) and A4 (440.00 Hz). The G is higher than the C, so the lowest note on the instrument is the open C string.
Why is the G string higher than the C string?
Standard ukulele tuning is re-entrant: the 4th string "re-enters" above the 3rd string instead of continuing downward. This keeps all four strings within one octave and creates the close, bright chord voicings the ukulele is known for. If you want a deeper range, use low G tuning.
Do soprano, concert and tenor ukuleles use the same tuning?
Yes. All three are tuned G-C-E-A; only the body size and scale length differ. The baritone ukulele is the exception and is tuned D-G-B-E like the top four strings of a guitar.
Can I tune my ukulele online with my phone?
Yes. This tuner runs in your browser and uses your phone or laptop microphone. Nothing is recorded or uploaded; the pitch analysis happens on your device. Tap the speaker icon on a string to hear a reference tone if you prefer to tune by ear.
Why does my ukulele keep going out of tune?
New nylon and fluorocarbon strings stretch for several days. Tune up, gently pull each string away from the fretboard, and tune again. Repeat a few times. Temperature and humidity changes also shift the pitch, so check your tuning every time you pick it up.