The more you indulge in playing your acoustic guitar, the more your strings collect sweat, dirt, and grime, leading to a less-than-ideal sound. Changing strings is a fundamental part of being a guitarist, but have you ever considered exploring different gauges or brands to truly unlock your guitar’s potential? Our guide to the Best Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings available right now will point you in the right direction to elevate your playing experience.
Choosing the right set of strings is a deeply personal journey, yet thankfully, it’s not an expensive one. This affordability is precisely why we encourage you to experiment with various options rather than simply sticking with what you know. A different set of strings can completely transform how your acoustic guitar responds and might even unlock new playing styles you never thought possible with your old, worn-out strings.
Deciding on the perfect strings can be challenging, especially considering the sheer volume of sets available today. To simplify things, we’ve curated our favorite sets and categorized them by use case, ensuring you find the ideal match for your needs. We’ve also included a comprehensive FAQs section to address common questions about acoustic guitar steel strings, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed choices.
Product Guide: Top Picks for Every Player
A pack of Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
1. Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best Overall
Material: Steel core, aluminum bronze winding
Coated: No
Pros:
- Premium protection
- Suitable for all players
Cons: - Can sound too bright for some guitars
Acoustic guitar steel strings endure a lot throughout their lifespan. From fluctuating temperatures and humidity to the constant contact with your fingers, strings face a tough existence. If you’re aiming to extend the life of your strings without the feel of traditional coatings, the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze set is an excellent choice. These best acoustic guitar steel strings offer premium protection against corrosion and wear.
While we appreciate the bright sound of an acoustic guitar, it’s worth noting that these Ernie Ball strings are particularly brilliant. Therefore, consider this if your acoustic guitar already possesses brighter-sounding tonewoods, as these strings might further accentuate that brightness. They are a top choice for overall performance among best acoustic guitar steel strings.
A pack of D
2. D’Addario EJ11 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best Budget
Material: 80/20 Bronze
Coated: No
Pros:
- Excellent value for money
- Great for beginners
Cons: - Not as durable as some other options
Acoustic guitar steel strings are generally a relatively affordable investment, but if you’re seeking a budget-friendly set that doesn’t compromise on quality, the D’Addario EJ11 80/20 Bronze strings are your best bet. Available at a very accessible price point from most retailers, these strings offer exceptional value for guitarists mindful of their budget. For beginners looking for best acoustic guitar steel strings without breaking the bank, these are ideal.
We recommend the light gauge as our top pick for versatility, but this range offers six different gauges, including extra light and a hybrid set with a light top and medium bottom. They deliver a bright and resonant sound, although they may not last as long as coated sets, making them a great entry point into exploring different best acoustic guitar steel strings.
A pack of D
3. D’Addario XT Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best Coated
Material: Phosphor bronze, 80/20 bronze
Coated: Yes
Pros:
- Effective coating for extended life
- Excellent tuning stability
Cons: - Coating feel might not be preferred by everyone
The D’Addario XT line represents D’Addario’s most advanced approach to acoustic guitar steel strings yet. These meticulously engineered strings incorporate D’Addario’s innovative features – including high-carbon NY Steel, fusion twist technology, and signature colored ball ends – and introduce a new string coating. This coating not only triples the lifespan of the strings but also maintains a feel remarkably similar to uncoated strings, addressing a common concern with coated strings. For players seeking long-lasting best acoustic guitar steel strings, these are a prime choice.
It’s important to note that this advanced technology comes at a higher price. These premium strings are notably more expensive than standard sets, and some guitarists may perceive a minimal difference in tone compared to uncoated strings. However, for longevity and consistent performance, they stand out as some of the best acoustic guitar steel strings with coating technology.
A pack of Martin
4. Martin ‘Clapton’s Choice’ Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best for Fingerpicking
Material: Phosphor bronze, steel core
Coated: No
Pros:
- Consistent performance
- Durable construction
Cons: - Can sound too mellow for some playing styles
If fingerpicking is your preferred style, you’ll benefit from a set of acoustic guitar steel strings that are slightly less bright. These Martin ‘Clapton’s Choice’ strings are designed with a warmer tone, making them ideal for players who primarily pluck the strings. They are among the best acoustic guitar steel strings specifically for fingerstyle techniques.
The warm and balanced tone of these strings effectively minimizes the ‘clank’ sound sometimes encountered when fingerpicking with brighter acoustic strings. If you’re aiming for a modern, bright attack from your acoustic, you might want to consider other options. However, for gentle fingerstyle pieces, these Martin strings enhance the nuances of your playing and are considered by many to be amongst the best acoustic guitar steel strings for this genre.
A pack of Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String acoustic guitar strings
5. Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-String Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best 12-String
Material: 80/20 bronze
Coated: No
Pros:
- Great value for 12-string sets
- Bright and resonant sound
Cons: - Uncoated strings may not last as long as coated options
Restringing a 12-string guitar can be a demanding task, but the Ernie Ball Earthwood 12-string set is designed to last longer than typical uncoated strings. They also offer excellent value, especially when compared to more expensive coated sets, making them a perfect choice for 12-string guitarists seeking quality without overspending. For 12-string guitars, these are recognized as some of the best acoustic guitar steel strings in terms of value and performance.
Like most Ernie Ball acoustic string sets, these 12-string strings produce a bright sound, which complements the inherently sparkly tone of a 12-string guitar. They are well-balanced across the frequency spectrum and are available in a heavier gauge set if you prefer more string resistance or want to tune down. Overall, they are a reliable choice in the category of best acoustic guitar steel strings for 12-string instruments.
Best acoustic guitar strings: Elixir 80/20 Bronze with Nanoweb
6. Elixir 80/20 Bronze Nanoweb Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings – Best Durability
Material: Steel core, 80/20 bronze winding
Coated: Yes
Pros:
- Coated for durability without compromising tone
- Highly playable and comfortable feel
Cons: - Might sound too bright for some acoustic guitars
Elixir is renowned for its expertise in coated strings and has developed a patented Nanoweb coating. The company claims this coating provides the same level of protection as thicker polymer coatings but without the tonal drawbacks. This innovation has made Elixir arguably the most recognized maker of coated acoustic guitar steel strings. When considering durability and tone preservation, Elixir is often cited as a top brand for best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Our experience confirms that these strings last significantly longer than uncoated strings, and importantly, they maintain excellent tone throughout their extended lifespan. While the coating is remarkably thin, heavy strumming can potentially cause it to break down over time. For players who value longevity and consistent tone, Elixir 80/20 Bronze Nanoweb strings are a leading choice among the best acoustic guitar steel strings for durability.
A set of D
7. D’Addario Pro Arté Classical Guitar Strings – Best Classical (Nylon)
Material: Nylon, silver-plated copper winding
Coated: No
Pros:
- Made in the USA
- Articulate and clear tone
Cons: - Some players may prefer ball-end classical strings
While nylon strings naturally degrade slower than steel strings due to their oxidation resistance, keeping them fresh remains beneficial. D’Addario is a leading manufacturer of nylon strings, particularly the Pro Arté series, which are highly regarded in the classical guitar community. Though not steel strings, they are important to consider for acoustic guitarists exploring different string types.
The Pro Arté series offers two tensions: normal and hard. Hard tension strings deliver a snappier, louder tone with pronounced high-end clarity, favored for more aggressive classical pieces. Normal tension strings provide a mellower tone, well-suited for softer, traditional classical music. However, if you find tying nylon strings to the bridge challenging and prefer ball-end strings, these traditional tie-end strings might not be your immediate preference. While different from steel strings, D’Addario Pro Arté are benchmark for quality in classical guitar strings.
Understanding Acoustic Guitar Steel String Gauges
Close up of acoustic guitar strings
A crucial aspect when selecting acoustic guitar steel strings is the gauge, which refers to their thickness. Gauge is measured in thousandths of an inch, a seemingly minute unit, but even small gauge differences significantly impact the feel and playability of the strings. Choosing the right gauge is essential for optimizing your playing experience with best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Thicker gauge strings require more physical force to press down, so beginners often find lighter or medium gauges more comfortable. While there are no strict rules, lighter gauges are generally recommended for new players. Some guitarists believe that heavier gauge strings produce a richer tone, and there’s some evidence to support this. However, comfort is paramount; you’ll always sound better playing on strings you’re comfortable with. For beginners, exploring different gauges is part of finding the best acoustic guitar steel strings for their needs.
Heavier gauge strings are also advantageous for alternate tunings, as they maintain tuning stability better at lower pitches. If you have a strong strumming hand, heavier strings are less likely to break under aggressive playing. They are a durable choice among best acoustic guitar steel strings for heavy strumming styles.
Lighter gauges, being thinner, can be easier on the fingers for some players. Fingerpickers with a lighter touch may find lighter strings more responsive, allowing for greater dynamic control. For fingerstyle playing, lighter gauges are often considered among the best acoustic guitar steel strings for nuanced performance.
Ultimately, string gauge is a matter of personal preference. Experimenting with different gauges is the best way to find what suits you. If you’re unsure, starting with a medium or regular gauge set is a safe bet, regardless of your playing style. Choosing a gauge that matches your playing style is key to finding your best acoustic guitar steel strings.
FAQs About Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings
Soundhole, pickguard and upper frets of a spruce-topped Walden acoustic guitar
What are the best acoustic guitar steel strings you can buy today?
The Ernie Ball Aluminium Bronze strings are outstanding all-around performers, working well for both fingerpicking and strumming. They project sound beautifully and offer a clear, balanced tone, making them a top contender for the best acoustic guitar steel strings on the market. For versatile performance, Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze are highly recommended as best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Elixir also produces exceptional coated strings that preserve the bright, fresh-string sound for up to 3-5 times longer than uncoated strings. They are the strings of choice for Taylor guitars on all their steel-string acoustics. For long-lasting brilliance, Elixir is a leading brand in best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Martin, renowned acoustic guitar experts, offers a wide array of strings tailored to virtually every playing style, ensuring there’s a Martin set among the best acoustic guitar steel strings for almost every guitarist.
What are acoustic guitar steel strings made of?
Acoustic guitar steel strings primarily consist of a metal core, typically stainless steel. The thicker four strings are wound with thinner metal windings, usually made from bronze or copper alloys. These materials differ from electric guitar strings, which are typically wound with steel or nickel to interact effectively with magnetic pickups. Understanding the materials helps in selecting the best acoustic guitar steel strings for your desired tone.
It’s crucial to remember never to fit steel acoustic strings to a classical guitar, as the increased tension can cause significant damage to the instrument. Classical guitars are designed for nylon strings, not the higher tension of best acoustic guitar steel strings.
What types of acoustic guitar steel strings are there?
Acoustic guitar steel strings differ considerably from electric guitar strings in their construction and materials. The two main types of acoustic steel strings are 80/20 bronze and phosphor bronze. 80/20 bronze, also known as brass, is an alloy comprising 80% copper and 20% zinc. Phosphor bronze is bronze with added phosphor. While seemingly minor, these material differences significantly affect the sound of your acoustic guitar. Choosing between 80/20 bronze and phosphor bronze is a key step in finding the best acoustic guitar steel strings for your tonal preferences.
Generally, 80/20 bronze strings are known for their brighter tone with a more pronounced high end. Phosphor bronze strings, conversely, tend to be mellower and warmer sounding. Considering your preferred tonal characteristics is a helpful starting point when searching for the best acoustic guitar steel strings.
What are the benefits of coated acoustic guitar steel strings?
Coated strings have gained popularity in recent years. Many of the best acoustic guitar steel strings feature a coating that protects the string from dirt and sweat, prolonging their fresh, new-string sound.
While coated strings are generally more expensive, they require less frequent replacement because they maintain their bright tone for a longer duration. Some players notice a slightly different feel with coated strings, but if you haven’t tried them, they are worth exploring for their longevity benefits. For players seeking extended string life, coated options are often considered among the best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Which is better, Phosphor Bronze or 80/20 Bronze acoustic guitar steel strings?
Typically, the thicker four acoustic guitar steel strings have a stainless steel core with windings of either phosphor bronze or 80/20 bronze. The two thinnest strings are usually plain steel. Both phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze windings offer distinct tonal qualities that appeal to different players. The choice between phosphor bronze and 80/20 bronze is crucial in selecting the best acoustic guitar steel strings for your sound.
Phosphor bronze acoustic strings generally provide a warmer, mellower tone with a balanced frequency response. 80/20 bronze strings sound brighter, with enhanced clarity and detail. They often have a robust bass response with a slight natural mid-range scoop. Understanding these tonal differences is key to choosing the best acoustic guitar steel strings that match your musical style.
How often should I restring my acoustic guitar with steel strings?
The frequency of restringing your acoustic guitar depends on how often you play. For regular playing, changing strings every 6-8 weeks keeps your instrument sounding its best. You can extend this interval slightly if you use coated strings. For more frequent playing or live performances, more regular string changes are recommended to maintain optimal tone and performance. Regular string changes are part of maintaining your guitar with the best acoustic guitar steel strings.
How We Test Acoustic Guitar Steel Strings
Close up of acoustic guitar strings on a Gibson Murphy Lab SJ200
Thorough testing is essential to ensure that acoustic guitar steel strings meet the demands of your beloved guitar. Our testing process involves rigorous everyday use scenarios. We aim to identify the best acoustic guitar steel strings through comprehensive evaluation.
We begin by stringing a guitar with a fresh set of strings and monitoring the “bed-in” period, observing how quickly they stabilize in tune. We look for strings that achieve tuning stability rapidly, ideally within minutes rather than hours. Quick tuning stability is a hallmark of best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Next, we evaluate the string feel under the fingers, seeking smooth strings that facilitate effortless movement across the fretboard. For coated strings, we assess whether the coating is imperceptible during play, focusing instead on its anti-corrosion benefits. Longevity testing involves keeping strings on a guitar for extended periods, noting when discoloration, tarnish, and tonal degradation begin to occur. Durability and playability are key factors in our evaluation of best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Sound quality is paramount. We test string tone across diverse musical styles to assess their versatility and performance across genres. We carefully analyze how the strings alter the guitar’s EQ, noting any enhancements or changes in tonal characteristics. Tone is a critical aspect when determining the best acoustic guitar steel strings.
Read more about our rating system, how we choose the gear we feature, and exactly how we test each product.
