Best
Value Ukulele tuner
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Overall: This TunerHas Ultra-Bright and Easy to Read Display
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Best Feature: Elegant Yet Durable Design, High Quality Stainless Steel Clip, and Capo Mode Ready
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Overall Ukulele Tuner
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Overall: Visible On Stage Thanks To The High-Brightness Mode
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Best Feature: Easy Tuning With 21-Segment LED Meter
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TedScore™: 10/10
Best
Budget Ukelele Tuner
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Overall: Specifically Designed For Ukulele With A 360-Degree Rotatable Display
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Best Feature: Ensure Your Tuning Is Always Spot On With Snark's High-Accuracy Design
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TedScore™: 9/10
Feeling fed up with your ukulele being out of tune? Playing your favourite songs only to find your ukulele sounds off-key can be frustrating. Check out the **best ukulele tuners** available!
These small devices are essential for any ukulele player, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro.
With so many options, deciding which ukulele tuner is right for you can be overwhelming. Luckily, we’ve researched and compiled a list of the top ten ukulele tuners.
Whether you prefer a traditional ukulele clip on tuner full-on tuner, or a more advanced app, we’ve got you covered. So why settle for an out-of-tune ukulele when you can easily tune it with one of these top-rated tuners?
Keep reading to find the perfect tuner for you and your ukulele!
What are Ukulele Tuners?
If you’re a ukulele player, you know how important keeping your instrument in tune is. A ukulele tuner is a device that helps you tune your ukulele accurately. Different types of ukulele tuners are available in the market, including clip-on tuners, pedal tuners, and smartphone apps.
Why You Need the Best Ukulele Tuner
Having the best ukulele tuner is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that your ukulele is in tune, which is essential for producing good sound quality. Secondly, it saves you time and energy. Tuning your ukulele by ear can be challenging, especially if you’re a beginner. A good ukulele tuner can make the process much easier and faster.
Another reason why you need the best ukulele tuner is that it can help you develop your ear. Using a reliable ukulele tuner, you can train your ear to recognize the correct pitch, improving your overall musicianship ability.
Lastly, having the best ukulele tuner can help you avoid frustration. Playing an out-of-tune ukulele can be frustrating and affect your motivation to practice. With a good ukulele tuner, you can ensure your ukulele is always in tune, making playing more enjoyable.
Types of Ukulele Tuners
When it comes to tuning your ukulele, there are several types of tuners you can choose from. Each type has its strengths and weaknesses; the best one for you will depend on your preferences and playing style.
Clip-on Tuners
Clip-on tuners are the most popular type of tuner for ukuleles. They’re small, compact, and easy to use.
Clip the tuner onto your ukulele’s headstock, and you’re ready to tune. Clip-on tuners use a piezo sensor to detect the vibrations of your ukulele’s strings.
They’re very accurate and can be used in noisy environments.
One of the best things about clip-on tuners is that they are affordable. You can find a good clip-on tuner for under $/£20. Some popular clip-on tuners include the Snark SN6X Clip-On Tuner and the D’Addario NS Micro Clip-On Tuner.
Pedal Tuners
Pedal tuners are more expensive than clip-on tuners but offer some advantages.
They’re designed for use with electric ukuleles and can be used in live performance settings. Pedal tuners use a piezo transducer to detect the vibrations of your ukulele’s strings.
One advantage of pedal chromatic tuners is that they can tune multiple instruments.
They’re also very accurate and can be used in noisy environments. Some popular pedal tuners include the Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner and the Korg Pitchblack Chromatic Pedal Tuner.
Digital Tuners
Digital tuners are another popular type of tuner for ukuleles. They’re small and compact and can be used with acoustic and electric ukuleles. Digital tuners use a microphone to detect the sound of your ukulele’s strings.
One advantage of digital tuners is that they are very accurate. They can also be used to tune multiple instruments. Some popular digital tuners include the KLIQ UberTuner and the Fender FT-004 Clip-On Tuner.
Mic-based Tuners
Mic-based tuners are similar to digital tuners but use a more sensitive microphone to detect the sound of your ukulele’s strings. They are very accurate and can be used in noisy environments.
One advantage of mic-based tuners is that they can tune multiple instruments. They’re also very portable and can be used anywhere. Some popular mic-based tuners include models of the Peterson StroboClip HD and the TC Electronic PolyTune Clip.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Ukulele Tuner
When choosing the best ukulele tuner, there are several factors to consider.
The best tuner for ukulele must have accurate and fast tuning capabilities, ensuring your ukulele is perfectly tuned for optimal sound. A bright display and an easy-to-use interface also make some tuners popular among ukulele enthusiasts
Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:
Accuracy
Accuracy is crucial when it comes to tuning your ukulele. You want a tuner that can accurately detect the pitch of each string and help you adjust it to the correct note. Look for a tuner with a chromatic tuning mode, which allows you to tune to any note and standard tuning modes like GCEA, ADF#B, and DGBE.
Display
A bright, easy-to-read display is important when tuning your ukulele. Look for a tuner with a clear and easy-to-see display, even in low-light conditions. Some other ukulele tuners even have full-colour displays that make it easy to see which string you are tuning.
Ease of Use
For the best uke tuner, you want one that’s easy to use, even if you’re a beginner. Look for a tuner that’s simple to operate and has clear instructions. Clip-on tuners are a popular choice because they’re easy to attach to your ukulele and don’t require any additional equipment.
Versatility
A versatile tuner can be used for more than just tuning your ukulele. Look for a tuner that can be used with other instruments, such as guitars, violins, and mandolins. Some tuners even have a built-in metronome feature, which can be helpful when practising your timing.
9 Best Ukulele Tuners
Snark SN6 Clip-On Ukulele Tuner
This funky little device is an affordable investment to simplify your musical life. It clips on securely to your ukulele headstock, with padded jaws to protect the finish. And the best part? It’s super sensitive, picking up even the lightest of plucks on your strings.
The large, clear screen displays the note plucked with a needle scale that allows precise tuning. Plus, the Snark SN6 is not limited to GCEA tuning – it’s a chromatic tuner model that works for all instruments. You can even set it to tune notes right beyond the open strings or calibrate to a reference pitch. And let’s not forget the tap tempo button, which turns the device into a handy metronome.
The Snark SN6 is a true game-changer that will earn a permanent spot in your ukulele gig bag.
PERFECT FOR: beginner to pro musicians
FEATURES: Ensure your tuning is always spot on with Snark's high-accuracy design
OTHER INFO: Specifically designed for ukulele with a 360-degree rotatable display
Snark SN6 Clip-On Ukulele Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Fully chromatic with an upgraded chip for precision pitch every time
- Lightweight, durable design with a reliable grip clip that stays put for quick, efficient tuning
- Comes with a built-in metronome
- The battery life lacks longevity
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
KLIQ UberTuner
This tuner takes pride in its bright and easy-to-read screen, making it a breeze to tune your ukulele. With a +/- 1 cent accuracy, you can trust that your ukulele will sound pitch-perfect. The adjustable pitch calibration and five different preset tuning modes make it suitable for whatever stringed instrument you have in hand.
And let’s not forget about its excellent display adjustability. However, beware of its uber-tiny control buttons, so make sure you know them like the back of your hand before venturing onto a dark stage.
The KLIQ UberTuner is a top-of-the-class tuner that makes you feel like a pro. Plus, at just over 20 bucks, it won’t break the bank.
PERFECT FOR: all instruments
FEATURES: Has dedicated modes for guitars (acoustic &electric), bass, violin, and ukulele
OTHER INFO: Offers a chromatic mode that allows for key changes
KLIQ UberTuner - Professional Clip-On Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- With a 360º swivel mechanism and large clip opening to fit with almost any instrument
- The large colour LCD allows you to see from any angle easily
- Backed by a comprehensive 3-Year guarantee
- With a strong and durable design
- The three control buttons can be a bit difficult to handle due to the small size of the device
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender FT-004 Clip-On Chromatic Tuner
You need the Fender FT-004 Clip-On Chromatic Tuner, not just because it looks sleek and stylish. This little gadget features preset tuning for various instruments, including your beloved ukulele, and can work chromatically or on a per-string basis.
Plus, the LCD screen changes colour from blue to green when perfectly in tune. No more strumming aimlessly, hoping for the best. Trust us; you don’t want to rely on one of those hit-or-miss tuners. And with a brand like Fender, you can expect accuracy and reliability.
But beware, getting the battery in is challenging due to the tiny screw holding the cover. But once you conquer that, you’ll be strumming like a pro in no time.
PERFECT FOR: musicians on the go
FEATURES: With 5 tuning modes; guitar, bass, ukulele, violin and chromatic
OTHER INFO: Built-in vibration sensor ensures accurate tuning
Fender FT-004 Clip-On Chromatic Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Large LCD with easy-to-read needle
- Compact & lightweight perfect for travel
- Easy to operate, even in darkened stage conditions
- May not be as accurate as other clip-on tuners
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
D'Addario NS Micro Clip-On Tuner
This tiny piece of technology is a blessing and a curse. A blessing because it makes tuning your ukulele a breeze, and a curse because it can be tempting to rely on it entirely instead of training your ear. But let’s focus on the positives.
This little guy is small enough to go unnoticed while performing, but the bright, easy-to-read screen ensures you’ll be in tune every time. And the adjustment buttons allow you to fine-tune your tuning (say that five times fast). Plus, the non-spring-loaded clip means it won’t fall off or break as easily as some other clip-on tuners.
PERFECT FOR: musicians looking for a compact and affordable tuner
FEATURES: A non-marring soundhole clip that offers a stress-free installation
OTHER INFO: Comes with a multi-colour display to read easily
D'Addario NS Micro Clip-On Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Has a calibration range of 435-455 Hz
- Designed to sit in the acoustics soundhole to provide a discreet tuning, remaining perfectly concealed
- The display can be difficult to read in bright sunlight
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
This pedal has a whopping +/- 1 per cent accuracy, which means it will detect your notes like a trained dog sniffs out its favourite toy. But accuracy isn’t the only thing this pedal has to offer. It also has a 21-segment LED display, which can be adjusted for brightness depending on the lighting of your performance space. And when the tuning process is complete, the Accu-Pitch function will let you know, so you can be confident that your ukulele is perfectly tuned.
Plus, with its chromatic mode, the TU-3 can detect all 12 notes on the scale, making it perfect for the multifaceted tunes of a ukulele. And if you like to experiment with different tunings, no problem. The pedal has a guitar/bass mode, which allows you to tune acoustic instruments according to string number and supports up to 7-string guitars and 6-string basses.
It even has a flat tuning mode, which enables you to drop your signal down with up to 6 semitones. And for those moments when you need to tune on the fly, the signal is automatically muted when you switch the pedal on.
PERFECT FOR: musicians who perform live
FEATURES: Easy tuning with 21-segment LED meter
OTHER INFO: Visible on stage thanks to the high-brightness mode
Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Silent tuning thanks to muted output setting
- Offers an abundance of features to optimise and speed up your experience
- A popular option for professional musicians worldwide
- Strong, durable, and impressive
- Quite large and heavy, making it less portable than other tuners
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Korg Pitchblack Chromatic Pedal Tuner
This little device ensures accuracy and precision in tuning, so your sophisticated chords and meticulous modifications don’t go to waste. Its pedal variation is the best creation for live performances, and its simplicity is an advantage in emergencies.
The Pitchblack recognizes your signal and corrects any pitch mistakes silently, while its die-cast metal shell ensures durability throughout years of stomping. With four modes of operation and a calibration range of 436-445Hz, this tuner is the tool you need. It even acts as a power source for other pedals via DC 9V Out Jack, and its True Bypass circuit prevents your sound from getting affected when passing through.
PERFECT FOR: all musicians
FEATURES: See in all lightings thanks to crystal-clear LED display and bright mode
OTHER INFO: New ULTRA BUFFER mode helps you avoid signal loss
Korg Pitchblack Chromatic Pedal Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Rugged and durable thanks to strong metal construction
- The strobe technology provides you with the tightest, most accurate tuning you'll ever experience
- Provides precise tuning with four modes at your disposal (Meter, Full Strobe, Half Strobe, and Mirror)
- The display can be slightly hard to read under the sunlight
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Planet Waves PW-CT-12 NS Mini Headstock Tuner
This little gem is easy to use and perfect for tuning your uke on the go. With a calibration range from 410 to 480 Hz, you’ll get the precise tuning you need. Plus, it’s small and easy to hide on the headstock of your uke, so you won’t look like a weird alien trying to tune your instrument.
And don’t worry about nitro lacquer damage; this small tuner is safe for use on all ukes. Sure, it may struggle with the B string occasionally, but who doesn’t struggle with the B string? Embrace the imperfections and let this tiny tuner make your uke life easier.
PERFECT FOR: both left and right-handed instruments
FEATURES: Highly accurate with a full-colour display
OTHER INFO: Four selectable viewing angles
Planet Waves PW-CT-12 NS Mini Headstock Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Advanced tuning algorithms allow you to tune in noisy environments
- Accurately and easily tunes a variety of instruments in all conditions
- The 360 degrees swivel mechanism means that this tuner is at home on all types of headstock
- Can be difficult to read in low-light conditions
- May not be as accurate as other clip-on tuners
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Peterson StroboClip HD
This little tech packs a punch with its incredibly accurate strobe tuning method. It uses a rotating disk to display frequency, allowing for much more precise tuning than the standard needle display.
Peterson claims it can display accuracy to +/- 0.1 cent – that’s impressive! Plus, with presets for over 60 different instruments and Sweetened Tuning options for electric and acoustic guitars, this tuner is versatile and perfect for musicians of all backgrounds. And don’t worry about using it in different lighting conditions – the tempered glass viewing window and bright display make it easy to read anywhere.
PERFECT FOR: professional musicians
FEATURES: True strobe 0.1 cent accuracy for perfect intonation
OTHER INFO: Visible in direct sunlight, ideal for outdoor performances
Peterson StroboClip HD, Clip On Strobe Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- High-definition backlit display, perfect for dark stages
- Adjustable Hz calibration depending on user preference
- Drop tuning & capo settings provide added versatility
- Higher price range
- May have a steeper learning curve for beginners with its advanced features
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
TC Electronic PolyTune Clip
This little gadget is a game-changer. First of all, the brightness of the LED display is so handy when you’re playing outside. And the best part? The PolyTune technology allows you to strum all your strings at once and see the tuning of all strings in one go. No more plucking and tuning each string separately. Genius, right?
The Chromatic tuner is also incredibly accurate with +/- 0.5 cent accuracy, and the Strobe tuner is even more precise with +/- 0.02 cent accuracy. Plus, it supports flat tunings and Capo Mode. And let’s not forget about the 18 hours of usage via a standard Lithium Coin Battery (CR2032). The packaging is also top-notch, making it feel like you’re unboxing a new iPhone.
PERFECT FOR: professional musicians
FEATURES: With a bright and easy-to-read display
OTHER INFO: Made with high-quality stainless steel clip
TC Electronic PolyTune Clip
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Comes with flat tunings and capo mode
- Has an elegant yet durable design
- Lets you tune all 6 strings at once
- More expensive than many other clip-on tuners
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
How to Tune a Ukulele
Tuning your ukulele is an essential part of playing it. A properly tuned ukulele will sound great and make playing more enjoyable. Here’s how to tune your ukulele:
Step 1: Understand the Standard Tunings
The standard tuning for a typical ukulele is “High-G” tuning, which is indicated by the lowercase “g.” The standard tunings for ukuleles are:
Soprano: GCEA
Concert: GCEA
Tenor: GCEA or DGBE
Baritone: DGBE
Step 2: Use a Tuning Device
Using a tuning device is the easiest way to tune your ukulele. Clip-on tuners are a popular choice, and they can be attached to the headstock of your ukulele.
Once attached, pluck each string, and the tuner will display whether the string is flat or sharp.
Adjust the string’s tension using the tuning pegs until the note displayed on the tuner matches the desired pitch.
Step 3: Tune Each String
Tune each string one at a time, starting with the G string. Pluck the string and adjust the tuning pegs until the note displayed on the tuner matches the desired pitch. Repeat this process for each string.
Step 4: Check the Tension
After tuning each string, check the tension by pressing down on each string at the third fret. The string should produce a clear and in-tune note. If the tone of the note is flat or sharp, adjust the string’s tension using the tuning pegs until the note is in tune.
Step 5: Loosen and Tighten
If a string is flat, loosen the string by turning the tuning peg counterclockwise. If a string is sharp, tighten the string by turning the tuning peg clockwise.
Step 6: Practice Regularly
Regular practice will help you develop your ear for tuning your ukulele. With time, you can tune your ukulele without needing a tuning device.
Best Ukelele Tuner
Summary
Great! You’re now equipped with the knowledge to choose the best ukulele tuner for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, having a reliable snark ukulele tuner is essential for playing in tune and having fun while jamming with friends.
Remember, when choosing a ukulele tuner, consider factors such as accuracy, ease of use, and compatibility with your instrument. If you need a full metronome tuner, look for tuners with this feature. And if you play multiple instruments, consider getting a chromatic tuner that can tune various instruments.
If you often play music in a noisy environment, look for tuners with improved piezo control, which will help you tune more accurately, even in loud settings.
The best clip-on ukulele tuner is the Snark SN6X. It is a great option for most ukulele players, especially those on a budget – I own one and I love it. It’s accurate, easy to use, and has a bright display that’s easy to read even in dark venues. Plus, it’s affordable and has a clip-on design that makes it easy to attach to your ukulele.
Remember to have fun and enjoy playing your instrument, no matter which ukulele tuner you choose. Happy tuning!
Wait, there’s more!!!
Are you in the market for a high-quality acoustic guitar but don’t want to spend a fortune? Look no further than our list of the best acoustic guitars under \$1000. And if you’re a ukulele fan, you’ll be happy to know that many of these guitars are made by the same trusted brands that produce some of the best ukuleles on the market!
Love the list! Just got the Snark tuner, and it’s a game-changer.
idk man, i think tuning by ear is something every musician should learn. aren’t these tuners making people lazy?
It’s a skill for sure, but tuners help beginners get right into playing and enjoying music, which can boost their learning curve and motivation.
I’ve used several of the tuners mentioned in your article, and I must say, the Peterson StroboClip HD stands out for its precision. It’s fascinating how accurate it can be, especially in a noisy environment. The only downside might be its price, but for those serious about their instrument tuning, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Hey Lewis, thanks for the detailed list of tuners. I just started learning the ukulele and was wondering if you have any specific recommendations for beginners? Is there a type of tuner that’s easier to use for someone who’s not yet good at tuning by ear?