Today I have combined a list of 15 best electric guitar strings for beginners to check out! If you just take up this new hobby then you would know the struggle of finding the suitable strings for your guitar in an endless option in the market.
But rest assured! BreathCarolina has a list of 15 best electric guitar strings that will assist you the next time you browse the store.
So, waste no more time confusing, let’s get right into it!
Quick Comparison: Best Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners
| D’Addario EXL110-3D XL Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings | Ernie Ball Super Slinky Nickel Wound Set, .009 – .042 | Fender Pure Nickel Electric Guitar Strings |
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Best Electric Guitar Strings for Beginners |
Best Electric Guitar Strings for Rock and Metal Fans |
Best Electric Guitar Strings for Vintage and Blues Fans |
** Below, you will find our detailed reviews of the Best Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.
Detailed Review: Best Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners 2023
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound Sets
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.5 x 1 x 6 inches
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
As a beginner, there is a wide range of different types of music that you’re learning to play, and you would want to find strings that could withstand the changes in genres. This is why this Nickel Wound set might be one of the best choices for you.
These high carbons still core and nickel-plating strings not only deliver a well-balanced tone but also enable you to perform different styles of playing. These strings are also produced with lock twists and brass wire ball ends to prevent slippery as well as to ensure resilience and longevity.
This helps beginners from making constant string adjustment and enhancing enjoyment.
Moreover, these strings are designed to fit any type of guitar model, so you don’t have to worry about all the confusing measurements when choosing this set.
A set of Ernie Ball Regular Slinky Nickel Wound comprises gauges of .010, .013, .017, .026, .036, and .046. Used by a large number of guitarists, this strings set is an ideal choice for not only beginners but also for professional guitarists in the industry.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Suitable for any instrument
- Slippery prevention
- Don’t require constant strings adjustment
Things we did not like
- Not rust-resistance
Ernie Ball Super Slinky Nickel Wound Set, .009 – .042
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.5 x 0.25 x 4.5 inches
- Size: Single pack
- String gauge: .009
- String material: Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
Another member of the Slinky family, Ernie Ball Super Slinky comes in with .009-gauge strings which are the perfect thickness for beginners as you don’t have to press so hard but it still gives perfect sound.
Even though it is the super-light type of string, it still withstands hard tensions. So the next time you want to perform something heavy, make sure to give this set a shot.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Well-balanced of warm and bright tone
- Endure aggressive attacks that make it suitable for rock and metal
- Beginner-friendly type of strings
Things we did not like
- Not give the best sound for ballads or softer music.
D’Addario EXL110-3D XL Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 6 x 1 x 6 inches
- Size: Regular Light, 10-46
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
D’Addario is a widely known and reputable company in the musical accessories industry. Therefore, it is unsurprising that their electric guitar strings are one of the best you could find in the market. The EXL 110-3D set has become D’Addario’s best-selling for a number of reasons. These strings produce a bright and distinctive sound which are preferred by many guitarists. They feature gauges .010, .013, .017 for plain strings and gauges .026, .036, .046 for nickel wound strings. They also fit a wide variety of guitar models which make it easier for beginners to find an ideal set of premium quality strings without concerning whether they’ll suit their guitar or deliver the perfect sound for their style of playing. Even though these sets are non-coated strings, they still offer a longer life span when compared to other manufacturers. Many guitarists choose this EXL 110-3D set incisively for their durability and longevity. Despite different types of environmental elements, you would find these strings still produce a satisfying tone and last for a long period of time both indoors and outdoors.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- High quality
- Bright and distinctive sounds
- Long-lasting against all elements
Things we did not like
- Discolored could occur overtime
D’Addario XT Nickel Plated
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.33 x 0.98 x 4.49 inches
- Size: Super Light, 09-42
- Number of strings: 6
What makes this set different from other D’Addario’s set is it gives the feel of non-coated strings while still having all the proper treatment for each string that ensures an extended lifespan. This XT Nickel Plated set comes with 9-42 gauge and super-light strings that are really an ideal option for beginners as it goes easy on your finger and is very durable. D’Addario also uses their Fusion twist technology which helps prolong these strings tuning routine as well as upgrade their break resistance ability.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Don’t need constant tuning
- Reasonably priced and easy to play
- Durable and extended lifespan
Things we did not like
- Strings are relatively stiff and tight, not easy to bend
Gibson Brite Wires Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 1 x 1 x 1 inches
- Size: Light
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Nickel
Another beginner-friendly electric guitar strings set comes from Gibson – a well-known guitar manufacturer in the world. Their Brite Wires Electric Guitar Strings feature a variety of attributes that could make to your list of best electric guitar strings. Brite Wires are known for their crisp sound and the ability to be used for almost any guitar type and playing style. So you don’t have to waste too much time contemplating when buying, whether you simply play one genre or you want to experience a diverse type of music, Brite Wires will deliver the sound and quality that suit your expectation.One of the unique features of strings produced by Gibson is the ratio of cover and core. Which helps differentiate Gibson’s strings by great tone and feel. A set of strings include gauges of .010, .013, 0.17, 0.26, .036, and .046. With nickel-plated, Swedish steel hex core, Brite Wires offer both crispness and a level of warmth tone to the sound as well as simple and swift tuning. Moreover, Brite Wires are also designed to hold their tune for an extended period. This feature is very beneficial for beginners who are not accustomed to retune their instruments frequently. If you are looking for an all-around set of strings, premium quality, and extraordinary sound, Gibson Brite Wire is not to be overlooked.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Produce crisp sound
- Unique cover to core ratio
- Long tune lifespan
Things we did not like
- None
Rotosound R9 Roto Pinks Super Light Electric Guitar String (9-42)
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.33 x 4.33 x 0.39 inches
- String gauge: Super Light 9-11-16-24w-32w-42w
- String material: Nickel
- Number of string: 6
Coming from an England company with 50 years of experience in producing guitar and guitar accessories, you couldn’t go wrong with a set of R9 Roto Pinks Electric Guitar Strings.These strings are built for tolerance while still giving you the best feels and superb tone. With nickel-plated, hex-core, and especially super-light strings, R9 will satisfy the needs of both beginners and professional guitarists.R9 Roto Pinks are easy to play and could go for a long time without the need to re-tune while still sounding great. If you’re not confident in changing tune regularly, you should give this set a try.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Durable
- Last for an extended period of time
Things we did not like
- None
DR Strings NMCE-10 DR NEON Electric Strings, Medium
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4 x 0.5 x 4 inches
- Size: 10-46
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Coated Nickel
- Number of string: 6
DR Strings are famous for their handmade, premium quality, and sound strings. Thus, it is no question that you can rely on this NMCE-10 to bring you one of the best experiences.Designed with Neon K3 coated strings, NMCE-10 promised an exceptional sound, strong and harmonious tune. Another added quality for novices is that with multicolor strings, this set will definitely make your learning journey considerably easier. These neon color strings are meticulously manufactured so that they’re both super glowing in the daylight and under artificial lighting.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Varicolored strings help everyone learn faster and easier.
- Neon K3 coated aids in durability, longevity and excellent sound
- Lifespan lasts 4 times longer than uncoated electric guitar strings.
Things we did not like
- The coating could get sticky and prevent sliding technique
Elixir Super Light Electric Guitar Strings with Polyweb Coating (.009-.042)
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.1 x 4.7 x 0.6 inches
- Size: Super Light (.009-.042)
- String gauge: .009
- String material: Nickel Plated Steel
With Elixir’s Polyweb coating technology, this set of strings have become very popular and are endorsed by many guitarists from beginners to professionals. Produced to be break resistance and corrosion resistance, these strings offer a tone that lasts longer when compared to other brands. And they’re also very cheap so if you’re a beginner and don’t want to put too much on this new hobby, these strings are one of the best options for you. However, Elixir Polyweb strings are a bit too light gauge to play heavy music. Still, if you’re not a fan of rock metal or just beginning to learn to play guitar, these strings will definitely meet all your expectations.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Affordable
- Powerful tone
- Polyweb coating helps lengthen tone life
Things we did not like
- Not suitable for heavy music
- Not available for 7-string guitars
Elixir 6 String Electric Guitar Strings, Custom Light 9-46, Nanoweb Coating
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 10.41 x 11.94 x 1.52 cm
- Size: Custom Light, 09-46
- String gauge: .009
- String material: Nickel Plated Steel
- Number of strings: 6
Elixir has a reputation for making excellently clear guitar strings that befitting for both electric and acoustic guitars.This new Nanoweb coating technology gives each string an ultra-thin coat that offers a long tone-life without sacrificing its crisp and brilliant tune. They’ve become popular for beginners by their flexibility and long-lasting ability. They also give a smooth feel when playing and reduce finger-squeak.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Easy on the finger
- Sustainable
- Bright and clear sound
Things we did not like
- Don’t have rust-resistance
Ernie Ball Super Slinky Cobalt Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.5 x 0.1 x 4.5 inches
- String gauge: .009
- String material: Cobalt
- Number of strings: 6
You couldn’t possibly go wrong with a string set from Ernie Ball Super Slinky family. It is a super-light type of string that is really responsive and easy to use for beginners. What makes this set special is the added Cobalt steel wrap on the wound strings. Many guitarists find that this characteristic brings out a richer and more sustainable sound.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Produce more sustains and richer melody
- A balanced mixture of power and clarity sound
- Have longer tone life than normal strings
- Best for distortion music
Things we did not like
- Slightly lower tension than regular wound strings
- Give a little rougher feel at the beginning.
Fender Super 250R Nickel-Plated Steel Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 0.5 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches
- Size: 10-46
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Nickel Plated Steel
- Number of strings: 6
In my opinion, Fender Super 250R is a safe choice when it comes to guitar strings because they are very versatile. They enable beginners to experience a wide variety of playing styles from blues, jazz to rock, and metal. They also come in many different gauges. With nickel-plated steel, they offer a balanced level of warmth and brightness but also respond well to a sharp and sudden attack.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Satisfy different style of playing
- Available in many sizes
- Affordable
Things we did not like
- Despite being versatile, they do not excel in any certain type of music.
GHS Nickel Rockers
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 0.5 x 4.5 x 4.5 inches
- String gauge: Light
- String material: Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
With so many years of experience in the guitar manufacturing industry, GHS has produced one of the best guitar strings in the world. Many professional musicians and beginner guitarists come to GHS for their variety of tones and tunes. GHS Nickel Rockers are made from pure nickel that delivers a warm vintage tone. They also go easy on your finger with a silky-smooth polish on each string. If you’re fond of the bending style of playing then this is the perfect match for you.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Clean and warm vintage tone.
- Polished strings give a smooth feel.
- Made from pure nickel.
Things we did not like
- Can’t hold high tension
Elixir Optiweb Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 0.5 x 4.1 x 4.7 inches
- Size: Light (.010-.046)
- String gauge: Light
- String material: Coated Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
If you find yourself getting stuck all the time in the changing string phase and would rather use something that doesn’t need regular maintenance, then you should check out this Optiweb Electric guitar set from Elixir. Unlike other coated strings, these patented Optiweb coatings don’t take away the natural resonance of the strings. Moreover, it gives a brighter and clearer sound and it also lasts significantly longer.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- The coating doesn’t affect the sound.
- Bright, clear, and musical sound
Things we did not like
- The coating frayed after a while
- Strings give a rougher feel than some
Fender Pure Nickel Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.5 x 0.5 x 4.5 inches
- Size: 9-42
- String gauge: .009
- String material: Nickel
- Number of strings: 6
This Fender set is normally preferred by vintage and blues tones fans but if you’re new to the genre and are learning to play, this is still a go-to pick for you. When purchasing, you will get a nickel core set, with nickel wire wraps that really emphasize and flatter that vintage tone. Each string is polished with a silky smooth finish that reduces finger squeak significantly as you traverse around the fretboard.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- Blues-friendly
- Vintage and low-gain tone
- Reduce finger squeak
Things we did not like
- Need regular re-tuning
- Not very durable
S.I.T. Light Nickel Wound Electric Guitar Strings
Specifications:
- Product dimension: 4.5 x 0.3 x 5.5 inches
- Size: Light 10-46
- String gauge: .01
- String material: Nickel
S.I.T stands for Stay In Tune and that is exactly what this All-American company guarantees to its customers. With all material’s originating from America, this nickel-plated, hexagonal-shape core strings set promises a brilliant tone with sensitive response and extended string life. It could also endure from light bend guitarists to heavier strummers.
- Pros
- Cons
Things we liked
- All-American
- Long-lasting
- Variety of gauges
- Durable
- Favored by many famous musicians
Things we did not like
- Not rust resistance
Purchasing Tips – Guidelines To Choose The Best Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners
There are several aspects you should consider when browsing for a set of strings.
Type of guitar
First and foremost, you have to know what type of guitar you’re having in order to choose the correct type of strings. Strings are produced differently for different types of instruments. Therefore, if you place an acoustic set of strings on an electric guitar, it would definitely don’t sound good and vice versa.
Thickness of strings
As a beginner, you might get confused by all the numbers indicating different thicknesses. In regard to guitar, you might hear people use the term “string gauge” to refer to the thickness of the smallest string on the set. For example, 10 string gauges or 12 string gauges. More specifically, these numbers mean a thousandth of an inch so 10 means ten-thousandths of an inch (.010), etc. You might also see on the strings pack the term “light”, “medium” or “heavy” which indicates the tension of the sets. These terms are merely there just to give you an idea of what might work best for you. There’s no specific definition for these terms and they can vary instrument to instrument, for example, an electric set of lights might be 9 or 10 while an acoustic one might be 11 or 12. Now you might ask yourself: “What gauge strings do I need?”. Well, fortunately, it is all based on personal preference and your style of playing. Light strings are popular for beginners because you don’t have to press down too much and hurt your uncalloused fingers but still get the sound that you’re looking for. It is also preferred by people who play finger-picking style as it is more responsive than other strings gauge. On the other hand, guitarists who play with a slide style would favor heavier strings for their tension detaining ability. And because heavy strings gauge is stiffer, it is often chosen by players whose style of playing requires more actions. If you’re a beginner and don’t know where to begin, I suggest you go for a medium set for your guitar and you can always move up or down depending on what’s your playing style and what sounds best to you later on.
Material of strings
Another vital part of a set of strings is the material. It is the factor that determines the feel, the tone as well as the sturdiness of the strings. For the same type of string gauge, different materials could yield completely different sounds. The most common type of material for an electric guitar is nickel-plated steel. It is widely chosen for its versatility and the ability to perform different genres. In addition, pure steel and stainless-steel strings are mostly preferred for hard rock, metal, or generally for genres that have more distortion.No matter what type of strings you’re choosing, you would be surprised at how much you could prolong the life of your strings with just a few simple steps to keep them clean. Before you play, just wash your hand and when you’re done playing, use a small cloth to wipe the strings down to get rid of any oils or dirt and keep your strings playing better longer.
Check out this video for more information about how to properly preserve your guitar strings
Final Thoughts of Best Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners
The topic of guitar strings could go deeper and deeper to many more variations of factors such as the shape of the core, coated or non-coated, the material that wraps around the strings, and so on.
You could waste hours getting lost in all the possibilities. Therefore, my recommendation is either you just base on the basic factor to make your choice or you could just try things out, experience it, you never know what you might like.
Or you could refer to this sum-up list of ours:
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Best Electric Guitar Strings for Beginners |
Best Electric Guitar Strings for Rock and Metal Fans |
Best Electric Guitar Strings for Vintage and Blues Fans |
I hope this list of best electric guitar strings for beginners will give you sufficient information for your next browsing in the guitar shop. If any further information is required, you could contact me via my email.
Have fun and keep strumming!
See more best seller of Electric Guitar Strings For Beginners on Amazon and find the best option for you here!
Thank you for reading this far! I hope that the information provided in this article will be helpful to you.
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Top 15 Best Budget Acoustic Electric Guitars 2023: Which is the best choice?
