If you’ve been rummaging around the internet trying to find the best ukulele strings, then you’ll be glad to know you’re in the right place.
The right strings can take your ukulele playing to the next level or upgrade your instrument.
There are thousands on the market, so I’ve filtered through them and selected all of the best soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone ukulele strings.
So, if you’re ready to up your uke game, read on…
First Things First: Names of Ukulele Strings
When searching for the best ukulele strings to elevate your playing experience, it’s essential to understand the different types of strings available.
Ukulele strings are typically named based on their materials and positions on the ukulele. The four primary string names for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles are, from top to bottom, A, E, C, and G strings.
However, baritone ukuleles use a different tuning, with string names D, G, B, and E.
These strings come in various materials and designs, offering distinct tones and characteristics, so selecting the right set can significantly impact your playing style and preferences. Now let’s delve into our 6 best options for Ukulele strings!
Snapshot: Top 6 Ukulele Strings In 2024
- D’Addario EJ87S Titanium Ukulele Strings – Best Soprano
- Aquila New Nylgut Soprano Ukulele Strings
- Aquila 7U Concert Ukulele Strings – Best Concert
- Martin Fluorocarbon M620 – Best Tenor
- Aquila Super Nylgut AK-107 – Best Low G Tenor
- Aquila Sugar 156U Baritone Ukulele Strings – Best Baritone
Picking Great Ukulele Strings
When it comes to choosing ukulele strings I always stick to brands I know and trust.
It’s really important to me that I only review products that I love myself, and that I know are good quality. So, I’ll admit, I tend to stick to the big names like Aquila, D’Addario, a Martin & Co. I like to consider what they’re made of, what type of players they’d suit best, and, of course, how they sound.
I’m not going to lie, I also check what color they are because I’d hate to open a packet of orange strings that were meant for a blue uke, you know?
We all know how much I love a good-looking uke!
The Best Ukulele Strings in 2024
1. D’Addario EJ87S Titanium Ukulele Strings Review – Best Soprano
D'Addario EJ87S sets are designed for use with all soprano ukuleles. Each string within this set is made from our bright sounding titanium material and optimized for GCEA tuning.
D'Addario...
- Optimized for Soprano Ukuleles tuned to GCEA tuning
- Titanium monofilament material for brightness and projection
These D’Addario strings used to be pretty underrated. I think people got put off by the word “Titanium” because they half expected to pull metal strings out of the packet. Don’t worry though, no fingers were harmed in the making of this blog.
String Materials & Finish
As I said, these aren’t the steel strings you might have imagined, so don’t worry! Your fingers won’t be in tatters after using them. D’Addario EJ87S’s are made from a monofilament material, meaning each string is one single strand of the titanium material, rather than several woven together (like electric guitar strings).
The strings are made with titanium fibers, so they still look and feel kind of like nylon strings. They’re smooth and polished to the touch (thank god, I can’t think of anything worse than rough uke strings).
Color
Most websites describe these ukulele strings as being purple but I don’t agree. Don’t get me wrong, they’re a really pretty color, they’re just not purple. I’d say they’re a greyish white color. But hey, don’t shoot the messenger if you disagree!
Sound
These guys are tuned to the standard G, C, E, A and well, if you thought your uke couldn’t sound more Hawaiian, you thought wrong. If you play a soprano then I’m assuming you love that classic, bright “take me to the beach” ukulele sound. That’s why I think these D’Addario EJ87S’s are the best soprano ukulele strings. They accentuate that gorgeous bright sound, without making it too edgy… You with me? Plus, they give you so much more volume it’s unbelievable.
Good For…
The titanium in these strings gives them such a punchy tone. I’d say they’d be great for people who prefer fingerpicking over strumming. Every note you play will sound with such a precise tone you’ll absolutely fall in love (well, I did anyway). Percussive players will love these D’Addario strings as well. I mean, warm and punchy strums in between chucks – is that not just the dream?
I also love switching up to these strings if I plan on playing in front of an audience due to their exceptional projection. So, anyone who takes their ukulele on stage often will absolutely love these D’Addario EJ87S’s.
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Soprano – Tuned G, C, E, A
- Gauge: .028, .033, .040, .029
- Material: Titanium monofilament
Classical, bright Hawaiian sounding strings with extra volume, warmth, and clarity.
Final Thoughts on the D’Addario EJ87S
I can’t stress how much I love stringing up my sopranos with these gems from D’Addario. They give you so much more projection and are perfect for all you guys who love fingerpicking as much as I do (why does that sound so gross?).
I’d say they’re perfect for someone who wants a bit more volume and clarity from their instrument. Isn’t that all of us? I guess they’re all-rounders!
2. Aquila New Nylgut Soprano Ukulele Strings Review
- The latest Nylgut model 4U soprano uke strings
- Regular Key of C Tuning: G C E A
- Highly polished and smooth surface
As I said earlier, both D’Addario and Aquila are big players in the ukulele string game, so I wanted to include a great option from the competition. These Aquila soprano strings are definitely a close runner up.
String Materials & Finish
These strings are made of much more traditional material – New Nylgut. Traditionally, ukulele strings were made of animal gut (little history lesson for ya!). These Aquila strings are the brand’s attempt at recreating that same classic sound and look but with a more affordable, easily sourced material, and they really do the job! Plus, if there’s any veggies reading this, you can rest easy knowing no animals were harmed in the making of your strings.
Color
These strings are a lovely, classic, creamy white color. If you love a traditional-looking uke like me, then these will suit your style perfectly! Hey, I know looks shouldn’t matter, but let’s be honest… They kinda do, right?
Sound
Okay, so these strings aren’t quite as bright sounding as the D’Addario Titaniums. They’re a little bit of a step down on the brightness scale, meaning they’re a tiny bit more mellow. To be honest, I’d say it’s a good idea to have both the D’Addario Titaniums and the Aquila New Nylguts in your collection. That way you can figure out which ones work best with your playing style!
Good For…
All you singers out there will absolutely love these strings. I have one of my soprano ukulele is strung up with Aquila New Nylguts and one with the D’Addario Titaniums because I like them both for different reasons. If I’m planning on having a little sing-song then the Aquilas are my guys. If I’m just having a jam or going on stage then I prefer my Titaniums.
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Soprano – Tuned G, C, E, A
- Gauge: .028, .033, .040, .029
- Material: New Nylgut
Slightly warmer sounding soprano ukulele strings, perfect for singers
Final Thoughts on the Aquila New Nylgut Soprano Ukulele Strings
These are really lovely, slightly more mellow strings. I’d recommend them if you think your ukulele sounds a bit too bright, or if you want to spruce up the sound of a more affordable uke. They took a little more time than my other strings to “break-in” so just keep that in mind if your tuning slips at the start!
3. Aquila 7U Concert Ukulele Strings Review – Best Concert
- Aquila Model 7U Concert Ukulele Nylgut Strings
- Regular Tuning: G C E A
- Key of C
Aquila 7U strings are the best where concert ukes are concerned. They’re really similar to the soprano strings in terms of playability so if you love those then I know you’ll love these too! Well, they’re my favorite anyway…
String Materials and Finish
Again, these strings are made of New Nylgut, so the look and feel very similar to the soprano strings in my previous review. In fact, they’re almost exactly the same to play, the difference really lies in their sound. Another great thing about New Nylgut strings is how durable they are – after they’ve been broken in, of course.
Color
I love these strings traditional white color and think they look wonderful on dark-wood ukuleles. We all know I love a bit of contrast! If you fancy giving your concert uke a little spruce-up then these will do the job perfectly.
Sound
I always pick up my concert for its slightly more mellow sound, so if you’re in the same boat then you’ll love the Aquila 7Us. They will vamp up the warmer tone of your concert ukulele and create the best possible sound.
Good For…
These Aquila strings are really nicely polished and pretty soft to the touch. They’re a great option for beginners who are looking to up their game a little but they’re still flexible enough for the pros. I think they’re great for very rhythmic ukulele players and blend really nicely with other instruments.
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Concert – Tuned G, C, E, A
- Gauge: ..0243, .0305, .0373, .0265
- Material: New Nylgut
Great all rounders that everybody loves
Final Thoughts on the Aquila 7U Concert Ukulele Strings
If you’re in a band or love to sing as you play, these Aquila 7Us are definitely the best concert ukulele strings you’ll get your hands on. They’re really great all-rounders because they’ll suit everyone from a complete novice to a seasoned player. I mean, everyone loves Aquila strings, right?
4. Martin Fluorocarbon M620s Review – Best Tenor
- Excellent tuning stability
- Easy playing feel
- Warm & clear tone
I don’t know about you but I just don’t think anyone can beat the tenor strings from Martin & Co. They’re a more affordable option, but I prefer them over Aquila and D’Addario for my tenor.
String Materials and Finish
Yup, you guessed it! These Martin & Co tenor ukulele strings are made from fluorocarbon. “What the heck is that?” I hear you ask… It’s an absolute dream, that’s what it is! Just kidding (kinda, I really love these strings). Fluorocarbon is a cheeky little combo of carbon and fluorine.
Skipped science class too? Don’t worry… All you need to know is that once you’ve broken them in, your strings will barely ever go out of tune. Plus, your tenor will never have sounded so good. What’s more? They’re cheap. So cheap. Love them.
Color
These guys are transparent. I know, I know, they’re not quite as fancy-looking as Aquilas but they sound amazing and that’s what it’s really about. Although I do sometimes forget that… Oops.
Sound
Okay, so here’s why I love these strings so much – they’re so incredibly mellow you wouldn’t believe. Have you ever heard someone playing a tenor and it genuinely sounds like they’re playing the harp or something? That’s what you’ll get with these Martin M620s. So, so pretty.
Good For…
Literally anyone. I understand why some people shy away from Martin strings. I know they don’t look as luxurious as Aquila or D’Addario strings but you’ll absolutely love them. Some people might say they’re just beginners strings.
However, I’ve been playing for years and I’d still pick Martin strings over all the others when it comes to re-stringing my tenor. They also feel a lot thinner than most of my other strings and I find them easier to play!
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Tenor – Tuned G, C, E, A
- Gauge: .0220, .0284, .0340, .0251
- Material: Fluorocarbon
Beautifully mellow and so easy to play – you just can’t beat these Martin tenor ukulele strings
Final Thoughts on the Martin Fluorocarbon M620
The Martin Fluorocarbon M620s have always been my favorite tenor ukulele strings. I mean, they really are just the best tenor strings you’ll find. Even if you’re skeptical, I’d definitely urge you to give them a go because you won’t look back.
5. Aquila Super Nylgut AK-107 Review – Best Low G Tenor
- Aquila's latest advance in synthetic gut ukulele strings
- Natural pearl color, super-smooth playing surface
- Less stretchy than previous strings, greater tuning stability
Okay, I know you guys are going to want an Aquila option for your uke, so here are my favorite strings for when I want to tune my tenor with a low G.
String Materials and Finish
Most people will agree that the Aquila Super Nylgut AK-107s, are the best low G tenor strings out there. Yup, you heard me, these aren’t just your bog-standard Nylgut strings, they’re Super Nylgut (insert that sassy nail painting emoji, if you know what I mean). They’re basically just the new and improved Nylgut strings from Aquila.
They break in a bit quicker and offer really precise intonation which I absolutely love. If you go between playing your tenor ukulele with standard tuning and a low G, then these are a great option. They’ll take a little longer to break in than the Martin ones, but you’ll notice they start to hold the tuning pretty quick.
Color
In true Aquila fashion, these Super Nylgut strings are a beautiful pearly white color. I mean, if you want to turn heads, it will happen before you’ve even started playing with these guys, trust me. They’re gorgeously traditional and so striking. Love them!
Sound
The sound these strings give off is just wonderful. I mean, if you thought your tenor sounded mellow with the Martins on, you’re in for some next level soulfulness with these guys. Of course, most of it is probably down to the low G, these Aquila strings just emphasize that sweet tenor sound.
Good For…
Fingerpickers… You’re welcome. These strings have been sent to you from heaven. I mean, they’re honestly so wonderful. Plucking out a tune with these Aquila Super Nylguts will genuinely give you shivers.
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Tenor – Tuned G, C, E, A (low G)
- Gauge: .0385, .033, .039, .0275
- Material: Super Nylgut
For a lovely mellow sound and a pretty adornment to your uke, these are the best
Final Thoughts on the Aquila Super Nylgut AK-107
Anyone who loves fingerpicking should have some AK-107s in their collection. I mean, they are worth every penny. I know I said I loved Martin strings for my tenor, but I have to say when I want my G string wound low, I will always use Aquila Super Nylgut tenor strings.
6. Aquila Sugar 156U Review – Best Baritone
Okay, maybe I love Aquila strings more than I thought… These Aquila Sugar 156U strings are the best I’ve ever played with on my baritone. The key is in the name, I guess! These guys are so sweet sounding. I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of sugar, right?
String Materials and Finish
Funnily enough, these strings are made from a plastic material that derives from the sugarcane plant. Pretty cool, huh? One thing I will point out about these strings is that they might take a little while to break in. Probably around two weeks max, but just be patient. I mean, they’re amazing quality so once they’ve settled in your tuning will be impeccable – it just takes a little time!
Color
Unlike most Aquila strings, these baritone ukulele strings are actually transparent. Just thought I’d mention that before you got your hopes up waiting for some pearly whites. I actually love transparent strings because they don’t distract you from the uke itself. So if your baritone uke is pretty enough already, you’ll love these Aquila strings!
Sound
You’ve probably been wondering what some weird sugarcane plastic is going to do for your ukulele, right? Well, these strings seem to combine the sweetness of nylon strings with the clarity of fluorocarbon strings. So, basically they give you the best of both worlds. They’re beautifully mellow, expressive and so resonant.
Good For…
Any baritone ukulele player will absolutely love these strings. They’re maybe not the best for beginners, purely because they do take that bit longer to break-in. These Aquila Sugar strings are ideal for any style of playing, though. I mean, beginner ukulele players could use them, but they’d maybe need a bit of help with the tuning for the first couple of weeks.
Spec Summary
- Optimized for: Baritone – Tuned D, G, B, E (D and G strings are wound)
- Gauge: .0220, .0251, .0340, .0350
- Material: Sugar-Cane Plastic Blend
Really beautiful, expressive and resonant baritone strings for a fuller sound
Final Thoughts on the Aquila Sugar 156U
These baritone ukulele strings are so gorgeous. If you’ve been struggling to find the balance between a sweet and mellow sound, these strings will definitely help you out. They’re the best for accompanying a singer as well, they sound almost like an acoustic guitar.
Find Ukulele Strings that Work for You
It might sound silly, but I think it’s really important to realize that one players favorite strings could be the complete opposite of the next.
I mean, you might like your uke to be beautiful, bright and sweet whereas others love that soulful, harplike sound. Having said that, if you love the sound of the D’Addario Titaniums but play a tenor ukulele, you can easily pick up some that are optimized for whatever size you’ve got.
This was just a guide, so feel free to switch it up! What I’m trying to say is, find ukulele strings that work for you. Finding your favorites makes life so much easier. No more rumbling around the web reading reviews, for one.
Although, us ukulele players are always after something more, so I’m sure you’ll be back in no time!
I’ll see you then…
Further Reading:
- Ukulele vs Mandolin – Which Should You Learn & What Is The Difference?
- Ukulele vs Guitar – How Are They Different & Which Is Best For You
- How To Choose A Ukulele – Get The Perfect One For Your Needs
- Best Ukulele Accessories For Beginner’s To Pro’s In 2024
- Best Gifts for Ukulele Players – 22 Unique Ideas for 2024
Fiona is a musician and writer. When she’s not working, she’s either playing the ukulele or finding another instrument to add to her collection.