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Home » Review » 7 Best Electric Guitar Strings For Metal (2025)

Best Electric Guitar Strings For Metal Cover

Last updated August 8, 2024

7 Best Electric Guitar Strings For Metal (2025)

  • Proudly written by Pro-Guitarist,
  • Lewis Turner
  • 6 Comments
  • Guitar Accessories | Electric Guitars | Guitars

Best

Overall Electric Guitar String for Metal

Fender Original 150 Electric Guitar Strings BEST ELECTRIC GUITAR STRINGS FOR YOUR STRAT
  • Overall: Ball-end design with classic Fender colours
  • Best Feature: Pure Nickel
  • TedScore™: 9/10
Click for Best Price

Best

Budget Electric Guitar String for Metal

Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky WELL KNOWN STRINGS
  • Overall: Available in a variety of gauges, materials, and styles
  • Best Feature: Made From High-Quality Materials
  • TedScore™: 8/10
Click for Best Price
Winner

Best

Durability Electric Guitar String for Metal

D'Addario NYXL PREMIUM CHOICE
  • Overall: Resistant To Breakage And Stay In Tune Longer Than Other Strings
  • Best Feature: Proprietary High-Carbon Steel Alloy
  • TedScore™: 8/10
Click for Best Price

Metal guitarists **understand** that getting the best strings is key to **nailing** their music’s ideal tone and feel. Whether we’re talking classic heavy metal, thrash, death metal, or another subgenre, strings can make a **world of difference**.

But with so many different options, choosing the right ones for your playing style and preferences can be overwhelming.

Of course, everyone’s playing style and preferences are different, so there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when choosing the best electric guitar strings for metal. 

But by considering factors like durability, tone, and gauge, you can narrow down your options and find the strings that are best suited to your style.

So if you’re ready to take your metal playing to the next level, it’s time to start exploring the world of electric guitar strings!

Table of Contents

Understanding Electric Guitar Strings

Choosing the right metal guitar strings is crucial when playing metal on your electric guitar.

Electric guitar strings come in various materials, gauges, and coatings. This section will help you understand the different types of electric guitar strings and how to choose the best ones for metal.

String Gauge

Gauge Or Thickness

The thicker the string, the higher the gauge number. The most common string gauge for metal guitars is .011-.056. However, some metal guitarists prefer even thicker strings for better sustain and tone. 

Thicker strings also require more tension to tune, which can be challenging for beginners.

Coated vs Uncoated Strings

Coated Vs Uncoated Strings

Coated strings are covered with a thin layer of polymer to protect them from dirt, sweat, and corrosion. 

They tend to last longer and stay in tune better than uncoated strings. It can also affect the tone and feel of your guitar, making them less popular among metal guitarists.

Uncoated strings have no extra protective coating layer, giving them a more traditional sound and playability. While more susceptible to corrosion, it still gives you that classic sound that makes you crave.

Nickel-Plated vs Cobalt Strings

Nickel-Plated Vs Cobalt Strings

Nickel-plated strings are the most common type of electric guitar strings. 

They offer a balanced tone with bright highs and warm lows. the iron and Cobalt alloy strings, on the other hand, have a wider dynamic range with increased low-end and crisp highs. They’re ideal for metal guitarists who want a more aggressive and powerful tone.

Flatwound vs Roundwound Strings

Flatwound Vs Roundwound Strings

Flatwound strings have a flat surface and produce a smooth, mellow tone. They are ideal for jazz and blues guitarists but are less popular among metal guitarists who prefer a brighter and more aggressive tone. 

Roundwound strings have a round surface, producing a brighter, more cutting tone. 

They are the most popular type of electric guitar strings for metal.

How to Correctly String an Electric Guitar

How To Correctly String An Electric Guitar

It’s not just about the type of strings you use, and it’s also important to string your guitar correctly to ensure optimal sound and playability. Here are some steps to follow when stringing your electric guitar:

  1. Start by detuning and removing the old strings. Use wire cutters to snip the strings near the tuning pegs. Then, unwind the strings from the bridge and remove them from the guitar.
  2. Before you put on the new strings, take the opportunity to clean your guitar. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the fretboard and body of the guitar.
  3. Take the new strings and insert the ball end into the bridge. Pull the string through the bridge until the ball is secure. Then, thread the string through the appropriate tuning peg and pull it taut.
  4. Use your fingers to wind the string around the tuning peg, making sure to wind it in the direction that tightens it. Once the string is wound, use wire cutters to snip off the excess string.
  5. Once all the strings are on, it’s time to tune your guitar. Use a tuner to ensure each string is tuned to the correct pitch.
  6. Stretch each string away from the fretboard after tuning. This will help the strings settle into place and stay in tune longer.

How to Choose
the Best Set of Electric Guitar Strings for Metal

Gauge

The most common gauge for metal is .010-.046. However, some metal players prefer a heavier gauge, such as .011-.049 or .012-.054. They also provide more tension, which can help you achieve a tighter, more aggressive sound.

Heavier gauge strings are generally better for heavy metal music because they offer more sustain and a richer sound. However, they can also be harder to play and require more finger strength.

Coating

Coated strings have a polymer or other material layer that helps protect the string from dirt, sweat, and other debris. They can also help prolong the string's life and improve tuning stability.

Note that coated strings can be a great investment if you play or perform live often.

These strings are treated with a special coating that helps to extend their lifespan and prevent corrosion. However, coated strings can also be more expensive than uncoated strings, and some players may not like the feel of the string coating themselves.

Tension

The string's tension refers to how tight it feels when you play it. Higher tension strings can provide more sustain and a tighter sound but can also be harder to play.

Lower tension, lighter strings, can be easier to play but may not provide the same level of sustain or tone.

Material

This can also affect its tone and durability. The most common materials for electric guitar strings are nickel-plated steel, stainless steel, and pure nickel. Nickel-plated steel strings are the most common and are known for their bright, clear tone.

Stainless steel strings are known for their durability and resistance to corrosion. Pure nickel strings have a warmer, more vintage tone.

Number of Strings

Most electric guitars have six strings, but some metal players prefer seven or eight strings for extended range. Seven-string guitars have an additional low B string,

while eight-string guitars have both a low B and a high F# string.

However, playing the guitar with more strings can be more challenging and may require more practice to master.

Best Electric Guitar Strings for Metal

Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky

These nickel-wound strings have a bright, punchy tone that works well for heavy music. They also have a comfortable feel, making them easy to to play metal with for long periods. 

The Regular Slinky set is a great choice for metal players, with gauges ranging from .010 to .046.

Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky Review
WELL KNOWN STRINGS

PERFECT FOR: Guitar and bass players of all genres

FEATURES: Made from high-quality materials

OTHER INFO: Including nickel-plated steel

Check Price >
8/10

Ernie Ball Skinny Top Heavy Bottom Slinky

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • Available in a variety of gauges, materials, and styles
  • Bright, clear tone
  • Excellent sustain
  • Easy playability
CONS
  • String breaks easily
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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 NYXL

It’s a line of guitar and bass strings produced by D’Addario, a New York-based company making strings since the 1930s. It’s also a premium line of string designed to offer improved tuning stability, increased durability, and enhanced playability.

D’addario Nyxl1046 Review
PREMIUM CHOICE

PERFECT FOR: Guitar and bass players

FEATURES: Proprietary high-carbon steel alloy

OTHER INFO: Resistant to breakage and stay in tune longer than other strings

Check Price >
8/10

D’Addario NYXL

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • Enhanced playability
  • Improved tuning stability and durability
  • Bright, clear tone
  • Available in a wide range of gauges
CONS
  • Expensive
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

Heavy Core

Also known as Dunlop strings and designed for heavy music. These have thick, heavy gauge strings that can handle aggressive playing styles. The Heavy Core set has gauges ranging from .010 to .052. 

These strings are also great for players who like to use drop tunings.

Heavy Core Review
POPULAR CHOICE GUITAR STRINGS

PERFECT FOR: Metal guitarists

FEATURES: With heavy metal and hard rock

OTHER INFO: Available in a variety of gauges and materials

Check Price >
8/10

Dunlop Heavy Core Strings

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • With nickel-plated steel wrap wire
  • Easy playability
  • Excellent sustain that helps notes ring out longer
  • Good frequency response
CONS
  • Limited availability compared to other string brands
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

GHS Boomers

GHS Boomers has been a popular line of guitar strings since 1975. They’re known for their bright tone, powerful attack, and long-lasting durability. The Boomers set has gauges ranging from .010 to .046.

Ghs Boomers Guitar Strings Light Review
POPULAR METAL STRINGS

PERFECT FOR: All levels of metal guitarists

FEATURES: With powerful attack

OTHER INFO: Can withstand heavy strings

Check Price >
8/10

GHS Boomers

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • Include nickel-plated steel and pure nickel.
  • Long-lasting durability
  • Available in a variety of gauges and materials
  • Cost-effective
CONS
  • Not everyone may like the bright, clear tone of these strings
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

Elixir OPTIWEB Coated

Elixir Optiweb strings are coated with a thin layer of polymer that helps to extend their lifespan. These strings have a bright and clear tone, with a smooth feel that makes them easy to play. 

The Optiweb set has a gauge range from .010 to .046.

Elixir Optiweb Coated Electric Guitar Strings Review
HIGH-QUALITY STRINGS

PERFECT FOR: Players with the metal genre

FEATURES: Proprietary coating technology

OTHER INFO: Resistant to corrosion and other forms of wear

Check Price >
7/10

Elixir OPTIWEB Coated

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • constructed with nickel-plated steel wrap wire
  • Great high-end response
  • Enhanced playability
  • Produced balanced sound
CONS
  • Expensive
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 7/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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 Original Bullet

Available in .009, .010, and .011 gauges. Fender strings are proudly crafted in the United States of America. Attention to detail and the finest materials ensure you will get the best feeling and greatest sounding string, set after set.

Fender Original 150 Electric Guitar Strings Review
BEST ELECTRIC GUITAR STRINGS FOR YOUR STRAT

PERFECT FOR: Any level of musicians

FEATURES: Pure nickel

OTHER INFO: Hex core construction

Check Price >
9/10

Fender Original 150 Electric Guitar Strings

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • Ball-end design with classic Fender colours
  • The rich and warm tone
  • Reduced finger noise
  • Creates more brightness along with a faster pick attack
CONS
  • None
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 9/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

DR Strings

It’s a hand-made string for you to produce sound original and good. It has super bright colour-coated strings bound to sound clear, powerful and musical. 

Mix neon colours give a unique impression with the same remarkable sound and last longer like a typically coated string but with a greater sound quality.

_Dr Strings Nmce-10 Dr Neon Electric Strings Review
COLORFUL APPEARANCE

PERFECT FOR: Players with all levels

FEATURES: Hi-def neon multi-coloured

OTHER INFO: Resistant to corrosion and other forms of wear

Check Price >
8/10

 DR Strings NMCE-10 DR NEON Electric Strings

What Retailer to Buy From?

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!

PROS
  • With six strings
  • Delivering longevity
  • 4 times long-lasting than uncoated electric guitar strings.
  • Fewer unwanted overtones
  • Enhanced clarity and articulation
CONS
  • Expensive
Arrow Down
The TedScore™: 8/10
The TedScore™ is our unique system of scoring products.
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™.

Tools for Stringing Your Electric Guitar

When changing the strings on your electric guitar, having the right tools can make the process much easier and more efficient. Here are the essential tools you’ll need to restring your guitar.

And if you need a complete list of these accessories, check out this article — 21 Essential Guitar Accessories.

String Winder

A string winder is a handy tool that can save you much time and effort when changing your guitar strings. It works by winding the string around the tuning pegs quickly and smoothly, so you don't have to do it by hand.

A good string winder should fit comfortably in your hand and have a built-in cutter to trim the excess string.

String Cutters or Pliers

String cutters or pliers are other essential tools for changing your guitar strings. They allow you to cut the old strings cleanly and precisely so they don't damage or injure your guitar. It's important to use a good quality pair of string cutters that are sharp and durable.

When buying string cutters or pliers, look for ones with a comfortable grip and a sharp cutting edge.

Tuner

It's a device that helps you tune your guitar to the correct pitch. You play a string, and the tuner tells you whether it's too high or too low and by how much. It's like a musical GPS for your guitar!

Now, tuners can come in all shapes and sizes. Some are built into the guitar, while others are separate devices you can clip onto the headstock. And they can use different methods to tell you whether you're in tune.

Guitar Stand or Neck Rest

It holds your guitar upright when you're not playing it. It's like a little stage for your guitar to rest on. And a neck rest is a cushioned support that cradles the neck of your guitar, helping to keep it stable and secure.

This help keep your guitar safe from damage. When you're not playing your guitar, it's important to keep it in a safe and secure place. A guitar stand or neck rest helps prevent your guitar from falling over or getting knocked around.

Best Electric Guitar Strings For Metal
Summary

Finding the best electric guitar strings for metal balances durability, tone, and personal preference. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder or just starting out, it’s important to experiment with different gauges, materials, and brands to find the best strings.

Some of the top takeaways when choosing strings for metal include looking for strings with a high output and strong midrange, considering the gauge best suited to your playing style, and choosing strings that can stand up to the intense wear and tear of metal playing.

With these factors in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect strings for your metal adventures.

So plug in, turn up the volume, and let the metal flow!

Before you go…

Once you’ve found the perfect strings for your metal adventures, you’ll need an amp that can do justice to your sound.

That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best beginner guitar amps – because even if you’re starting, you deserve an amp that can help you rock like a pro!

Best Beginner Guitar Amp

FAQ's

What is the best string gauge for electric guitar metal?

The best string gauge for electric guitar metal is the Ernie Ball Slinky Skinny Top Heavy Bottom set in 10-52 gauge. It is a versatile set of strings perfect for metal.

What type of guitar strings are best for metal?

Dunlop Heavy Core strings are a great choice for metalheads who want a thick, brutal tone. These steel core strings are immensely popular among metal fans and are the most metal-centric strings Dunlop has produced.

Are heavier strings better for metal?

Heavier strings are generally better for metal since they produce a thicker, more aggressive tone well-suited to the genre. However, finding the right balance between string gauge and playability is important to ensure your guitar is comfortable playing.

What strings are best for metal shredding?

The best strings for metal shredding are the 0.9 gauge Ernie Ball Super Slinky Nickel strings, favoured by shredders worldwide. These strings are light gauges, which helps with playing faster and shredding.

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  • Lewis Turner Guitar
    Lewis Turner

    Lewis is a professional guitarist based in London, UK. Over the years he has built up a diverse career, including playing on West End shows such as The Lion King, Mamma Mia, Man of La Mancha, Bat Out Of Hell, Strictly Ballroom, The Band, The Last Tango, Jersey Boys, Jackie The Musical, Exposure, Beyond The Fence, Adrian Mole, WAGGS, Momentous Musicals, The Addams Family (UK Premier), Legally Blonde, Fame, Hairspray, Grease, The Wedding Singer and many more. He has been fortunate to work with some fantastic musicians over the years including Mark Knopfler and Guy Fletcher (Dire Straits). All in all, Lewis is just a phenomenally talented guitarist who is also a really nice chap! See him in action on the Ted's List YouTube channel under the playlist guitars section.

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↓ Click here to leave a comment ↓
  1. Nick@Night says:
    February 18, 2025 at 7:18 am

    If only string changes were as easy as breaking them haha

    Reply
  2. Tina_Melodic says:
    January 10, 2025 at 2:07 pm

    Interesting article, Lewis Turner. I notice a heavy emphasis on string gauge for metal, which makes sense given the genre’s demands. However, I’m curious about tone. How significantly do you believe the string material and coating impact the tonal quality, especially in genres leaning more towards melodic metal? It seems there’s a balance to strike between durability and tonal clarity.

    Reply
  3. TheStringSnapper says:
    November 10, 2024 at 5:32 am

    whats the strongest string that wont snap when i play really hard got tired of changing them every week

    Reply
  4. MxPlum says:
    October 9, 2024 at 5:46 am

    Just started exploring electric guitars and this guide on strings is super helpful! I had no idea there were so many options. Looking forward to trying out the Ernie Ball Slinky set. Thanks, Lewis Turner, for breaking it down so nicely!

    Reply
    • ChordGuru says:
      March 23, 2025 at 7:53 pm

      ernie ball strings rock! good luck with your guitar journey

      Reply
    • RiffMaster22 says:
      January 23, 2025 at 1:02 pm

      Glad you found it helpful! The Ernie Ball Slinky strings are a great choice, especially for metal. Happy playing!

      Reply

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