SnapRhythm

Ukulele Tuning Guide

Standard GCEA tuning, Low G, and frequencies

Last Updated: Reading Time: 4 min

Ukulele Standard Tuning (G-C-E-A)

Ukulele is a 4-string instrument. Standard tuning from string 4 is G, C, E, A. Known as 'high G tuning' because string 4's G is actually higher than strings 3 and 2. This is called re-entrant tuning.

High G gives ukulele its bright, cheerful character. Alternatively, 'low G' tuning drops string 4 an octave for a fuller range closer to a guitar.

String Notes and Frequencies

Notes and frequencies for ukulele standard tuning based on A4 = 440Hz.

StringNoteFrequencyOctave
1A4440.00 Hz4
2E4329.63 Hz4
3C4261.63 Hz4
4G4392.00 Hz4

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How to Tune Your Ukulele

If this is your first time, follow these steps in order.

1. Open the online tuner

Select 'Ukulele' in the SnapRhythm tuner. Allow microphone access so the tuner can detect pitch automatically.

2. Tune one string at a time

Start with string 4 (G). Pluck gently and compare the detected note with the target.

3. Adjust the tuning pegs

Tighten the peg to raise the pitch, loosen it to lower. Turn in small increments rather than big jumps.

4. Re-check all strings

Adjusting one string can affect others, so double-check from the top once you finish.

Alternate Tunings

Besides standard high G, there are tunings worth knowing.

Low G (G3-C4-E4-A4)

Low G tuning. Closer to guitar feel

FAQ

What is standard ukulele tuning?
G-C-E-A from string 4 to string 1. String 4 (G4) is the highest note, which is unusual. This is called re-entrant tuning.
Difference between high G and low G?
High G has string 4 as the highest note (standard). Low G drops string 4 an octave to G3, giving a wider range and deeper bass — useful for fingerstyle and solo playing.
Does tuning change with ukulele size?
Soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles all use GCEA. Baritone is different: D-G-B-E, same as the top four guitar strings.
Why does my ukulele keep going out of tune?
New strings stretch and drop in pitch for several days after installation. Re-tune often during this period. Temperature and humidity changes also affect tuning.
Can I tune without a tuner?
It's possible using 5th-fret harmonics or borrowing an A from another instrument, but a tuner is faster and more accurate — especially for beginners.
How do I set up low G on a ukulele?
You need to swap string 4 for a dedicated low G string. Simply tuning your existing high G string down an octave leaves it far too slack, so it sounds floppy and won't hold pitch. Low G sets and single 4th strings are widely available, and they're usually thicker or wound to carry the lower note. Because the string is thicker, it may not sit in the nut slot properly — you might need to widen the slot slightly.
How do I tune to low G?
Only one string changes. Tune string 4 to G3 (about 196 Hz) and leave strings 3, 2 and 1 at C4, E4 and A4. Standard high G puts string 4 at G4 (about 392 Hz), so low G sits exactly an octave below. In the SnapRhythm tuner, pick ukulele as your instrument and switch the tuning to 'Low G' to detect against these notes.
Do high G and low G use different fingerings?
Chord shapes are identical — only the pitch of string 4 moves down an octave, so there's nothing new to memorise. What changes is how the chords sound. Low G adds weight underneath, which makes strumming feel fuller, while high G keeps the re-entrant layout that makes campanella-style playing, where notes ring into each other, come more naturally.

Tune your ukulele now

Switch the online tuner to ukulele mode and start tuning right away.

Open Ukulele Tuner

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Related Pages

Tuner

Guitar Tuning Guide

Bass Tuning Guide

Violin Tuning Guide

Guide

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