How to Tune a Ukulele: 3 Simple Methods to Try

Clip-on tuners are the easiest way to tune your ukulele. These small devices stick to your ukulele head and feel when the strings move. Most beginners like this method because it works in loud rooms and shows clear signals.

Step 1: Put the Tuner On

Clip the tuner onto the top part of your ukulele near the tuning knobs. The tuner should hold tight but not hurt the wood. Turn on the tuner. Set it to "chromatic" mode if you see this choice. 

Step 2: Know the String Names

Learn the four string names from top to bottom: G, C, E, A. The top string is G. The bottom string is A. The middle strings are C and E. Remember this order because you will use it every time you tune.

Step 3: Tune Each String

Pull the G string and look at the tuner screen. If it shows a different letter, turn the tuning knob until you see "G" on the screen. Turn the knob slowly until the needle points to the middle or the screen shows green or says "in tune."

Step 4: Do the Same for Other Strings

Do the same thing for the C, E, and A strings. Pull each string, look at the tuner screen, and turn the right tuning knob. Turn the knobs one way to make the sound higher and the other way to make it lower. Each ukulele might be different.

Step 5: Check Everything Again

Play all four strings again after you finish tuning. Sometimes the first strings you tuned change a little while you work on the others. Make small changes if needed until all strings show perfect tuning on your device.

The reference method uses other instruments to help tune your ukulele strings. This old way works well when you have a piano or other tools, but no electronic tuner. Many musicians still use this method today.

Step 1: Find Something to Help You

Pick one of these helpers. A piano or keyboard gives the best sound examples. Tuning forks make pure sounds for specific notes. Pitch pipes blow the right notes when you need them. You can also use online sound makers on your computer.

Step 2: Find the Right Piano Keys

Look for middle C on a piano keyboard. It is usually the fourth C key from the left side. Your C string should sound like this key. The E string should sound like the E key next to middle C. The G string should sound like the G key next to middle C. The A string should sound like the A key next to middle C.

Step 3: Start With the C String

Press middle C on the piano and listen carefully to the sound. Pull your C string and listen to both sounds. Turn the C string tuning knob until both sounds are exactly the same. This gives you a good start for tuning the other strings.

Step 4: Match the E String

Press the E key next to middle C on the piano. Pull your E string and turn its tuning knob until both sounds match perfectly. Listen for a small shaking sound that happens when two notes are almost the same but not quite right.

Step 5: Tune the G String

Press the G key next to middle C and pull your G string. Turn the G string tuning knob until both sounds are the same. The G string should sound higher than your C string but lower than your A string.

Step 6: Finish With the A String

Press the A key next to middle C and pull your A string. Turn the A string tuning knob until both sounds match exactly. The A string should be the highest sound on your ukulele when tuned correctly.

Tuning by ear means using your ukulele strings to help tune each other. This method helps you learn to hear music better and works anywhere without other tools. Many experienced players like this way because it makes the strings sound good together. Here is how to tune a ukulele by ear:

Step 1: Start With the C String

Begin by tuning your C string to about the right sound using your best guess. The exact sound does not matter as long as the other strings work well with this one. This string will help you tune all the others.

Step 2: Make the E String Sound

Press down the fourth fret on your C string with your finger. This pressed note should sound exactly like your open E string. Play both the pressed C string and open E string at the same time to hear if they match.

Step 3: Tune the E String

Turn the E string tuning knob until its open sound matches the fourth fret of the C string perfectly. When both sounds are the same, you will hear no shaking or moving between the two sounds. Play them together several times to make sure they match.

Step 4: Find the G String Sound

Press the third fret on your now-tuned E string. This pressed note gives you the right sound for your G string. The open G string should sound exactly like the third fret of the E string when tuned correctly.

Step 5: Fix the G String

Turn the G string tuning knob until its open sound matches the third fret of the E string. Listen carefully for the moment when both sounds become exactly the same. This may take several tries as your ear learns to hear perfect matching.

Step 6: Finish the A String

Press the second fret on your G string to make the right sound for the A string. You can also press the fifth fret on the E string for the same note. Tune your open A string to match either of these pressed sounds.

Step 7: Check Your Work

Pull all four open strings together to hear the complete sound. The music should be pleasant and nice with no bad clashing notes. If something sounds wrong, start over from your C string and try again.