Best
Overall Nylon Guitar Strings
-
Overall: From laser-controlled production for superb treble string intonation and consistency
-
Best Feature: With semi-polished bass strings that offer rich low end with minimal fret noise
-
TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Beginner Nylon Guitar Strings
-
Overall: Designed specifically for 3/4 classical guitars - perfect for beginners
-
Best Feature: A superb mixture of nylon treble strings and silver-plated copper wound
-
TedScore™: 7.5/10
Best
Value Nylon Guitar Strings
-
Overall: Ball-end nylon strings offer faster installation
-
Best Feature: Delivers true brass sound with 80/20 copper and zinc
-
TedScore™: 8/10
As a guitar player, choosing the best nylon string guitar can be a daunting task. Knowing which strings best fit your playing style and preferences can be difficult with so many options available.
But fear not, fellow guitarists! We’re here to help you find the perfect match for your musical needs. From the gauge and tension level of the strings to the type of guitar you have, there are many factors to consider when choosing the perfect match.
But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered!
This guide will take you through everything you need to know to choose the best nylon string guitar for your playing style and preferences.
So…
What are Nylon Guitar Strings?
If you’re new to the world of guitar strings, you might be wondering what exactly nylon strings are.
Nylon strings are a type of guitar string made from nylon material instead of steel. They’re most commonly used on classical guitars but can also be used on other acoustic guitars.
One of the main benefits of using nylon strings is that they’re much easier on the fingers than steel strings.
This is because nylon strings are softer and more pliable than steel strings, which can be rough on your fingertips. This makes them a great choice for beginners who are just starting out and may not have developed calluses on their fingers yet.
Another benefit of nylon strings is that they produce a warm tone, mellow tone perfect for classical and fingerstyle guitar playing. This is because nylon strings vibrate differently than steel strings, which can produce a brighter, more metallic sound.
Nylon strings also tend to have a longer sustain than steel strings, which can help to create a more atmospheric sound.
Brief History of Nylon Guitar Strings
If you’re a fan of classical guitar music, you’re probably well aware of the importance of nylon guitar strings. But did you know that nylon strings were invented by accident?
In the late 1930s, DuPont attempted to create a synthetic alternative to silk for women’s stockings. The resulting material was nylon, which was soon used for other purposes, including toothbrush bristles and fishing lines.
It wasn’t until the 1940s that nylon guitar strings weren’t introduced. Before that, classical guitars had gut strings, which were expensive and difficult to obtain during World War II.
Nylon strings were cheaper and more readily available, quickly becoming popular among guitarists.
One of the most influential figures in the history of nylon guitar strings was Andrés Segovia, a Spanish guitarist widely considered the father of modern classical guitar. Segovia was an early adopter of nylon strings on instruments, and he helped popularize them among guitarists worldwide.
Today, many different types of nylon guitar strings are available, each with unique characteristics. Some are designed for specific styles of music, while others are more versatile. If you’re in the market for new strings, it’s worth researching to find the ones best suited to your playing style and preferences.
Importance of Choosing the Right Strings for Your Guitar
Choosing the right strings for your guitar can make all the difference. It can affect the tone, playability, and even the longevity of your instrument.
Nylon strings, in particular, are a great choice for those looking to play softer, more romantic music, such as classical or flamenco. They’re also ideal for beginners since the strings tend to be gentler on the fingertips.
With the right nylon string for your guitar, you can also greatly improve your playing experience. Strings that are too thick or too thin can be difficult to play with and may cause discomfort or even injury to your fingers. Strings too high in tension can also be difficult to play, causing fatigue and discomfort over time.
Finding the best nylon guitar strings can make playing your guitar a more enjoyable and comfortable experience.
It’s important to experiment with different gauges, materials, and brands until you find the perfect fit for your playing style and instrument. With the right strings, you can unlock the full potential of your guitar and take your playing to the next level.
Advantages of Nylon Guitar Strings
If you’re considering switching to nylon guitar strings, there are several advantages to keep in mind. Here are just a few:
1. Softer on your fingers. Nylon strings are much softer on your fingers than steel strings. This can be especially important for beginners, who may find steel strings painful or difficult to play. With nylon strings, you can practice longer and more comfortably.
2. Great for chords. Because nylon strings have less tension than steel strings, they’re ideal for playing chords. You’ll be able to hold down all of the strings with a finger without the high tension of steel strings. This makes playing complex chords, especially barre chords, easier.
3. Warm tone. Nylon strings produce a warm, mellow tone that’s well-suited to certain styles of music, such as classical and flamenco. If you’re looking for a softer, more romantic sound, nylon strings are the way to go.
4. Lower cost. Nylon strings are generally less expensive than their steel string counterparts, making them a great choice for budget-conscious musicians. And because they’re less likely to cause hand pain or injury, you’ll be able to practice longer and more effectively, which can help you improve your skills more quickly.
5. Ideal for beginners. Overall, nylon strings are an excellent choice for beginners who may find steel strings too difficult or painful to play. With their softer feel, lower tension, and warm tone, nylon strings can make learning and playing the guitar easier.
Types of Nylon Guitar Strings
Classical vs Flamenco Strings
When it comes to nylon guitar strings, there are two main types: classical and flamenco. Classical strings are designed for classical music and have a warm, mellow tone. They’re typically made with a nylon core and wrapped with silver-plated copper wire.
On the other hand, flamenco strings are designed for flamenco music and have a brighter, more percussive sound. They’re usually made with a thinner gauge and have a more responsive feel.
Tension and Gauge Options
Nylon guitar strings come in a variety of tension and gauges.
Tension refers to the force required to press down on the strings, while gauge refers to the thickness of the strings. High-tension strings require more force to press down but produce a louder, more powerful sound. Low-tension strings are easier to play but have a softer, mellow tone.
Gauge options range from extra-light to heavy, and each gauge has its own unique sound and feel.
Choosing a tension and gauge appropriate for your playing style and the type of music you want to play is important.
Coated vs Uncoated Strings
Coated nylon guitar strings have a thin layer of polymer coating that helps protect the strings from corrosion and extends their lifespan.
On the other hand, uncoated strings have a more natural feel and sound but tend to wear out faster.
Coated strings are a good choice for players who want a longer-lasting string, while uncoated strings are ideal for those who prefer a more traditional sound and feel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Nylon Guitar Strings
When choosing the right nylon guitar strings for your instrument, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
Gauge
The gauge of a string refers to its thickness. Thicker strings generally produce a louder, resonant sound but can be harder to play. Thinner strings are easier to play but may not produce as much volume or sustain.
Consider your playing style and the sound you want to achieve when choosing your own string gauge.
Tension
The tension of a string refers to how tightly it’s wound. Higher tension strings generally produce a brighter, more focused sound but can be harder to play. Lower tension strings are easier to play but may produce a mellow or muted sound.
Consider your playing style and the sound you want to achieve when choosing your tension.
Coating
Coated strings are treated with a thin layer of material to help protect them from dirt, sweat, and other contaminants. This can help prolong the life of your strings and keep them sounding fresh for longer. However, coated strings may also produce a slightly different tone than uncoated strings, so consider your sound preferences when choosing your coating.
Brand
Many brands of nylon guitar strings are available, each with a unique sound and feel. Some popular brands include D’Addario, Savarez, and La Bella. Experiment with different brands to find the one that works best for you.
Playing Style
Your playing style can also impact the type of strings you choose. If you play with a lot of fingerpicking or strumming, you may want to choose more durable strings that produce a brighter sound. If you play more softly or with a classical style, you may want to choose more mellow strings that produce a warmer sound.
Tips for Finding the Right Nylon Strings for Your Playing Style
Choosing the right set of nylon guitar strings can be daunting, especially if you’re a beginner. The following tips will help you find the perfect set of strings for your playing style:
- Playing style: Before buying a set of nylon strings, it’s important to determine your playing style. Do you play classical, flamenco or hybrid style? Knowing your style will help you choose the right set of strings that suit your playing style.
- Consider the string tension: Nylon strings come in different tensions, including high, medium and low tension. High-tension strings are ideal for players who want a louder, more projecting sound, while low-tension strings are perfect for players who prefer a softer, more mellow sound. Medium tension strings, on the other hand, are suitable for players who want a balance between projection and tone.
- Look for quality strings: Quality matters when it comes to guitar strings. Look for strings made by reputable brands such as D’Addario, Savarez, and Augustine. These brands produce high-quality, long-lasting, and great-sounding strings.
- Experiment with different gauges: Nylon strings come in different gauges, ranging from .028 to .045. Experimenting can help you find the perfect strings that suit your playing style. Lighter string gauges are easier to play, while heavier gauges offer more projection and sustain.
- Consider coated strings: Coated strings are designed to last longer than traditional strings. They’re coated with a thin layer of polymer that protects the nylon and carbon strings from dirt, sweat, and other elements that can cause them to wear out quickly. Coated strings are ideal for players who want strings that last longer and sound great.
- Read reviews: Review reviews from other guitar players can help you decide when buying strings. Look for reviews from players with a similar playing style to yours, and pay attention to their comments about tone, projection, and feel.
Following these tips, you can find the perfect nylon guitar strings that suit your playing style and preferences.
Taking Care of Your Nylon Strings
Now that you have invested in high-quality nylon guitar strings, it’s important to take proper care of them to ensure they last as long as possible. Here are a few tips to keep your strings in top condition:
- First, always wipe down your strings with a clean, dry cloth after each use. This will help remove sweat, dirt, or oil accumulated on the strings during playing. This is particularly important if you have sweaty hands or if you play for long periods of time.
- Second, keep your guitar in a cool, dry place when you’re not playing it. Excessive heat or humidity can cause your strings to deteriorate more quickly, so storing your guitar in a suitable environment is important.
- Third, consider using a string lubricant or a neck conditioner to help prolong the life of your strings. These products can help to reduce friction between the strings and the fretboard, which can cause the strings to wear out more quickly.
- Finally, be sure to change your strings regularly. Even with proper care, nylon strings will eventually wear out and lose their tone. As a general rule, changing your strings every 3-6 months is a good idea, depending on how often you play and how much wear and tear your strings are subjected to.
By following these simple tips, you can help to ensure that your nylon guitar strings stay in top condition and provide you with great tone and playability for years to come.
Top 10 Best Nylon Guitar Strings
D'Addario EJ45 Pro-Arte Nylon, Normal Tension
This is the best-selling string set ever from D’Addario, and for good reason. They provide a comfortable feel along with a dynamic projection of rich tones. The clear nylon treble strings also give you those sweet, mellow highs quintessential to the classical guitar sound.
And if you’re worried about fit, these D’Addario strings are perfect for classical guitars because they were manufactured under normal tension, allowing them to suit most players’ needs.
DESIGNED FOR: live performances, studio recording, and classical guitar playing
FEATURES: From laser-controlled production for superb treble string intonation and consistency
OTHER INFO: With semi-polished bass strings that offer rich low end with minimal fret noise
D'Addario EJ45 Pro-Arte Nylon, Normal Tension Strings
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 perfect balance of rich tone, comfortable feel and dynamic projection
- Long-lasting and reliable
- Comes in an eco-friendly, anti-corrosion packaging
- One of the best nylon guitar strings on the market
- May not provide enough resistance for players with a more aggressive playing style
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™.
Augustine Concert High Tension Strings
These high-quality strings are made in Long Island, New York and offer superb sustain and tonal projection. With a hard tension in the treble and bass strings, they’ll give you a brighter, punchier tone and defined high end while maintaining the classic treble sound.
Designed for classical or Spanish acoustic guitars, these strings are sure to impress.
DESIGNED FOR: classical players
FEATURES: Offers higher tension in the bass strings
OTHER INFO: Exceptional feel thanks to quality design
Augustine Concert High Tension Strings
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!
- Great price
- The classiest, most refined strings ever
- Top-quality classical guitar strings
- Higher tension means the player needs to press harder on the fretboard
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™.
Ernie Ball Earthwood 2069 Nylon Folk Ball-End Set
These acoustic guitar strings will surely take your performance to the next level!
The solid nylon clear filament used in the plain strings produces rich pure treble tones with a percussive quality. Coupled with an 80/20 bronze winding and a nylon core, you get clear trebles with a strong attack. The precision wound strings are made from 80 copper and 20 zinc for the perfect balance of tone and durability. Plus, with ball-end classical strings, installation is a breeze.
These Ernie Ball strings are a must-try for folk or classical guitar players.
DESIGNED FOR: folk and classical guitar players
FEATURES: Ball-end nylon strings offer faster installation
OTHER INFO: Delivers true brass sound with 80/20 copper and zinc
Ernie Ball Earthwood 2069 Nylon Folk Ball-End Set
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!
- Sculpted into 28-42 gauges to ensure optimum performance and long-lasting life
- Delivers bright and balanced tones paired with crisp and pleasing highs
- Provides optimum performance
- A bit more expensive than other options on the market
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 EJ27N 3/4 Student Nylon Fractional, Normal Tension
These strings are optimized for usage on smaller guitars and feature a normal tension, making them easy to play for those just starting out.
D’Addario is known for its high-quality strings; these EJ27N strings are no exception. They’re designed for durability and longevity, and they sound great too. You can trust these strings to provide a clear, bright tone to help you develop your skills and play your best. Plus, they’re affordable, so you won’t have to break the bank to get the best sound for your guitar.
DESIGNED FOR: beginners
FEATURES: Designed specifically for 3/4 classical guitars - perfect for beginners
OTHER INFO: A superb mixture of nylon treble strings and silver-plated copper wound
D'Addario EJ27N 3/4 Student Nylon Fractional, Normal Tension
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!
- Offers impressive balance and wonderful warmth
- Infused with world-renowned D'Addario quality for a smooth-sailing performance
- May need a bit of extra tuning and adjusting at first
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™.
Stagg Deluxe Angel Lopez Classical Guitar Strings
These high-quality replacement strings are designed specifically for classical guitars, allowing you to upgrade your tone and enjoy a warm, mellow sound.
Not only are they great quality, but they’re also suitable for all classical guitars, making them a great choice for beginners. Plus, they come in a complete set of classical strings, so you won’t have to worry about anything else.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitars
FEATURES: Creates a warm, mellow sound with great responsiveness
OTHER INFO: Has a durable design for a long-lasting performance
Stagg Deluxe Angel Lopez Classical Guitar Strings
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 silver-plated wound nylon design
- Boasts world-renowned Stagg quality for a top-notch performance
- Aims to upgrade your guitar's sonic personality
- Classical guitar strings that are perfect for student players
- May not be as rich and warm as higher-end strings
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 100 Classical Nylon Clear, Silver Tie End Strings
These classical strings emit superior warmth, clarity, and sustain, thanks to their pure silver windings. But that’s not all – they also offer a smooth feel with reduced finger noise, ensuring you’ll sound your best while playing. Plus, with the tie-end feature, you can easily and securely take carbon strings and attach them to your traditional classical nylon-string guitar.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitars
FEATURES: Basses are wound in pure silver for an outstanding clarity
OTHER INFO: Emits superior warmth, clarity and sustain
Fender 100 Classical Nylon Clear, Silver Tie End Strings
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 pure silver windings that offer a smooth feel with reduced finger noise
- High-quality strings made from a state-of-the-art manufacturing process
- Reliable strings
- Some players reported that these strings could be difficult to keep in tune
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™.
Ernie Ernesto Palla Black Gold B/E (3 Set Pack)
These strings are made from black nylon monofilament for the treble strings and 80/20 bronze for the bass strings. They offer a smooth, rich sound perfect for concerts and other performances. They come in a convenient 3-set pack, so you’ll always have a few string sets for backup.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitarists
FEATURES: Has premium nylon and bronze construction for smooth, rich tones
OTHER INFO: Manufactured with the highest precision to ensure long playing life
Ernie Ernesto Palla Black Gold B/E (3 Set Pack)
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!
- Offers enhanced clarity and elongated sustain
- Professional standard and concert ready
- Included as a pack of three sets with individually wrapped strings
- The high-tension strings are not suitable for beginners
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™.
Dunlop Nylon Classical Concert Guitar Strings
These strings are designed to produce a tonal balance, a smooth tactile feel, and a wide dynamic range that any classical guitarist would love. What’s impressive about these strings is their copper-wrapped nylon core bass strings, resulting in a beautifully focused low-end. Whether you’re an experienced player or just starting out, these strings are sure to impress.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitar players
FEATURES: Delivers optimum tonal balance and dynamic range
OTHER INFO: With copper-wrapped nylon core bass strings for beautifully focused low-end
Dunlop Nylon Classical Concert Guitar Strings
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 warm, singing tone provided by Dupont Tynex treble strings
- With a smooth, tactile feel that enhances playability to its maximum
- Made with meticulous Dunlop design
- Some users have reported that the strings tend to produce a buzzing or unwanted noise while playing
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™.
Ortega Atmosphere Nylon Strings, Medium Tension
These strings are made from high-quality nylon and provide a warm, full-bodied tone perfect for classical guitar music. What sets these strings apart is that they are designed to provide a longer sustain than other nylon strings. This means your notes will ring out longer, giving your music a beautiful, full sound.
Additionally, Ortega Atmosphere Nylon Strings are very easy to play and provide great responsiveness, so you can dig into your playing without worrying about your strings breaking or losing their tuning.
DESIGNED FOR: classical guitars
FEATURES: Delivers a sweet sonic combo of brightness and warmth with a punchy attitude
OTHER INFO: Offers precise intonation with a truly pleasing projection
Ortega Atmosphere Nylon Strings, Medium Tension
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!
- Comfortable and kind to both the tips of your fingers and the environment
- Organic treble strings
- Comes with an extra D string
- From Italy with a revolutionary, world-renowned vibe
- May not be suitable for certain playing styles
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™.
Savarez T50R Nylon Classical Guitar Strings, Normal Tension
Savarez and Tomatito specially crafted these strings to deliver the perfect sound for your flamenco guitar. The set includes two new Cristal clear nylon trebles (E-1, B-2), an Alliance G-3 string and silver-plated basses wound on a multifilament core. The nylon ensures a smooth and comfortable playing experience, while the normal tension provides just the right resistance for optimal sound.
Customers rave about these strings’ high-quality sound and long-lasting durability, making them a must-have for any serious flamenco guitar player.
DESIGNED FOR: flamenco guitars
FEATURES: Comes with two Cristal clear nylon treble strings (E-1 and B-2) for extra snap and response
OTHER INFO: Creates a clear and melodic sound for falsetas, and a clean sound for rasgueado and alzapua techniques
Savarez T50R Nylon Classical Guitar Strings, Normal Tension
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 multifilament-core bass strings for powerful projection in lower notes
- Designed by Savarez S.A. and legendary Flamenco player Tomatit
- Extremely responsive and easy to play
- Provides immediate and precise response, projection
- One of the best classical guitar strings on the market
- May not be ideal for certain types of music
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™.
Best Nylon Guitar Strings
Summary
Choosing the best nylon string guitar is a fun and exciting journey that can lead you to your dream instrument. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But by considering factors such as your playing style, guitar type, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect nylon string guitar that complements your unique style and sound.
Remember, the right nylon string guitar is not just about the sound but also the feel and playability. You want a guitar that’s comfortable to play and inspires you to create beautiful music. So don’t be afraid to try out different guitars and experiment with different string types and gauges until you find the perfect match.
Ultimately, choosing the best nylon string guitar is about finding the one that speaks to you and makes you want to pick it up and play.
So don’t fret! Thankfully, strings are not soooo expensive, so buy a few different models to start with and test drive them all; you’ll soon find out which strings suit you and your guitar.
