Guitar String Gauge Converter
Convert guitar string gauge numbers like 9, 10, 46, or 52 into inches and millimeters, then compare common electric, acoustic, and bass string sets.
Convert string gauge, inches, or millimeters
Enter the number printed on a string pack, a decimal inch size, or a measured millimeter diameter.
A 10 gauge string is 0.010 inches, or about 0.254 mm.
How to use the guitar string gauge converter
- Choose whether you are starting with gauge, decimal inches, or millimeters.
- Enter the string size from the pack, calipers, or a setup chart.
- Use the result to compare gauge, inches, millimeters, and nearby common string sizes.
- For full sets, use the chart below to compare common electric, acoustic, and bass packs.
Common string set chart
| Set | Typical gauges | Best for |
|---|
Quick guitar string gauge notes
Guitar string gauge FAQ
What is a 10 gauge guitar string in mm?
A 10 gauge guitar string is 0.010 inches, which converts to about 0.254 mm.
What is a 46 gauge guitar string in mm?
A 46 gauge string is 0.046 inches, which converts to about 1.168 mm.
What does a 9–42 guitar string set mean?
It means the thinnest string is 0.009 inches and the thickest string is 0.042 inches. The middle strings are usually listed on the pack, such as 9, 11, 16, 24, 32, and 42.
Can I use this for bass strings?
Yes. Bass string gauges are commonly written the same way, such as 45, 65, 85, and 105, meaning 0.045, 0.065, 0.085, and 0.105 inches.