Ukuleles are delightful instruments, and keeping them properly tuned is simpler than guitar tuning since there are only four strings. The right tuner makes the process quick and accurate. This guide covers everything ukulele players need to know.
Most modern ukuleles use G-C-E-A tuning. This is the universal standard—if someone doesn’t specify a tuning, assume G-C-E-A. Interestingly, the G string is tuned higher than the C and E, creating that characteristic bright, ringing ukulele sound.
Ukuleles are typically made from wood, which responds to:
This is why consistent tuning is important—your uke will drift between sessions.
Clip-on tuners are perfect for ukuleles:
Simply clip it to your headstock and pluck each string.
These work wonderfully for ukuleles:
Great if you play guitar too.
Many ukulele players use their phones:
Step 1: Choose your tuning method. Pick whatever works for your situation—clip-on for quick tuning, app for portability, or online tuner for convenience.
Step 2: Get a reference tone for the first string. Use your chosen tuner to identify what the G string should be. With a clip-on, just clip and proceed. With an app, open it and play.
Step 3: Tune the G string. Pluck the G string and listen to your tuner. If the tuner says you’re flat (too low), turn the tuning peg toward you. If sharp (too high), turn away. Direction varies by uke, so check your specific model. Adjust until the tuner confirms you’re in tune.
Step 4: Tune the C string. Move to the second string. This should be noticeably lower than the G. Adjust until it matches C.
Step 5: Tune the E string. The third string should be tuned to E, which is higher than C.
Step 6: Tune the A string. The highest string should be A.
Step 7: Double-check everything. Play through all four strings. If anything is slightly off, make fine adjustments.
Watch out for the high G. The G string is tuned higher than C and E. This is intentional and creates that bright ukulele character. Make sure you’re tuning to the right octave—higher, not lower.
Tune gently. Ukulele tuning pegs aren’t as robust as guitar machines. Turn them smoothly and avoid forcing them.
Tune up to the note from below. If you overshoot and go sharp, come back down and approach from below. This helps the string hold tension.
New strings need patience. Fresh nylon ukulele strings take time to settle, often going out of tune several times in the first week. Keep retuning—they’ll stabilize.
Environment matters. Ukuleles are wood and respond to humidity. A room humidifier in dry climates helps. In humid environments, expect them to sit naturally sharp.
Tune before every session. Make this part of your routine: pick it up, tune it, then play. Takes less than a minute.
Once comfortable with electronic tuning:
This develops your ear but takes practice.
Once comfortable with standard tuning, explore:
Low G tuning: G-C-E-A but with G in a lower octave. Popular for fingerpicking and creates a different character.
Slack-key tunings: Hawaiian-influenced tunings that create unique atmospheres.
Dropped D: Various arrangements depending on your approach.
C tuning: C-F-A-D. Creates a different mood.
But start with standard G-C-E-A—this is what almost all ukulele music uses.
Tuning pegs slip constantly. Ukulele pegs sometimes need gentle tightening. If persistent, have a tech assess them.
Can’t get consistent readings from the tuner. For microphone tuners, try a quieter environment. Clip-on tuners eliminate this problem.
Strings keep going out of tune. New strings do this for several days. If old strings do it, they’re likely worn and need replacing.
The tuner shows wrong notes. If using a microphone tuner, it might be detecting interference. Try a clip-on instead.
Strings breaking during tuning. You’re turning pegs too aggressively. Turn slowly and deliberately.
Success comes from consistency:
A properly tuned ukulele sounds bright, cheerful, and inviting. Your uke deserves accurate tuning, and modern tuners make this effortless. Whether you use a clip-on, app, or online tuner, consistency matters most. Tune before every session and watch your playing improve immediately. Within a few weeks, tuning becomes completely automatic. Happy playing!
