9 best banjo strings

Banjo strings are an essential component of a banjo, a popular folk and bluegrass instrument. These strings play a crucial role in producing the instrument's signature twangy and bright sound. Here's what you need to know about banjo strings:

String Types:
- Banjos typically have four or five strings, although some variants have more.
- The most common banjo types are 4-string tenor banjos, 5-string banjos (with a short fifth string), and 5-string banjos (with a long fifth string).
- Each string on a banjo has a specific pitch and role in creating the instrument's distinctive sound.
String Materials:
- Banjo strings are commonly made from various materials, including steel, nickel, and bronze.
- Steel strings are known for their bright and sharp tone, while nickel-wound strings offer a warmer sound.
- Bronze-wound strings are often used for their balanced tone and projection.
String Gauges:
- Banjo strings come in different gauges or thicknesses, which affect the instrument's tone and playability.
- Lighter gauge strings are easier to play but may produce a thinner sound, while heavier gauge strings can offer more volume and sustain.
String Tuning:
- Banjos can be tuned in various ways, depending on the musical style and player's preference.
- The most common tuning for a 5-string banjo is known as "Open G" tuning (G-D-G-B-D), while tenor banjos are often tuned to C-G-D-A.
- The fifth string on a banjo is typically tuned higher and is known as the "drone" string, adding a unique element to the instrument's sound.
Maintenance:
- Banjo strings require regular maintenance and replacement to ensure optimal sound quality.
- Frequent playing can cause strings to lose their brightness and intonation over time, so changing them is necessary to maintain the desired tone.
- Proper cleaning and string stretching can also prolong the life of banjo strings.
String Brands:
- Various manufacturers produce banjo strings, and players often have their preferred brands based on their sound preferences and playing style.
String Accessories:
- Banjo players may use accessories such as string winders, capos, and picks to enhance their playing experience.

In summary, banjo strings are an integral part of the banjo, and their material, gauge, and tuning significantly impact the instrument's sound and playability. Banjo players often experiment with different string types and setups to achieve the desired tone for their musical style, whether it's folk, bluegrass, country, or another genre. Regular maintenance and string replacement are essential for keeping the banjo in top playing condition and preserving its unique sound.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best banjo strings on the market

D'Addario Banjo (EJ55)

D'Addario

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

D'Addario EJ55 5-string banjo sets are made from plain steel and offer a Phosphor Bronze wound 4th string for a warmer tone. Loop end construction for universal fit. D'Addario banjo strings are trusted by legends like Ralph Stanley, Rob McCoury, Ron Block, Alison Brown, and more, for their authentic tone and reliable performance. They are made from the highest quality plain steel, stainless steel, nickel plated steel and phosphor bronze and available in a wide variety of gauges.

Phosphor Bronze wound 4th string for added warmth
Loopend construction for universal fit
Preferred for its warm, bright, and well balanced tone
Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance
String Gauges: Plain Steel .010, .013, .016, Phosphor Bronze Wound .023, Plain Steel .010
Phosphor Bronze wound 4th string for added warmth^Loop end construction for universal fit^Preferred for its warm, bright, and well balanced tone^Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance^String Gauges: Plain Steel .010, .013, .016, Phosphor Bronze Wound .023, Plain Steel .010

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this considdered in between medium and light gauge
Answer:	I would say they are closer to the light than the medium gauge. They are bright in tone. You might explore the topic further in the forum on www.banjohangout.org. Lots of information there.
Question:	Are these for gdae banjo
Answer:	Yes, indeed-O! These are great strings (I prefer the medium weight).
Question:	Can these strings be used in a tenor guitar
Answer:	I do not see why not. 4 string tenor CGDA or if you like Irish tuning try the GDAE string both cheap enough to try them out. The 5 string sets will not be good
Question:	What is the difference between the J60 and EJ60 strings? They seem the same based upon the description
Answer:	The 'E' stands for 'Environment', any strings with this prefix should have no plastic packaging.

Product features

D'ADDARIO BANJO STRINGS

D’Addario banjo strings are made from the highest quality high-carbon steel and wrap materials, available in XT coated and traditional uncoated wire in a wide variety of gauges. We have a string for every player ranging from brighter alloys like stainless and nickel-plated steel to warmer alloys like phosphor bronze.

FEATURES:

High carbon steel
Loop end construction for universal fit
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA
Corrosion resistant packaging for strings that are always fresh

D'Addario EJ60 Nickel 5-String Banjo Strings, Light, 9-20

D'Addario

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EJ60, one D'Addario' s best selling 5-string banjo sets, offers light playing tension for comfortable playing feel and brilliant tone. Loop end construction for universal fit. D'Addario banjo strings are trusted by legends like Ralph Stanley, Rob McCoury, Ron Block, Alison Brown, and more, for their authentic tone and reliable performance. They are made from the highest quality plain steel, stainless steel, nickel plated steel and phosphor bronze and available in a wide variety of gauges.

One of D'Addario's most popular 5-string banjo gauges, ideal balance of tone and projection
Loop end construction for universal fit
Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life
Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance
String Gauges: Plain Steel .009, .010, .013, Nickel Wound .020, Plain Steel .009
One of D'Addario's most popular 5-string banjo gauges, ideal balance of tone and projection^Loop end construction for universal fit^Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life^Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance^String Gauges: Plain Steel .009, .010, .013, Nickel Wound .020, Plain Steel .009

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this considdered in between medium and light gauge
Answer:	Paint job. I dont have the purple ad in front of me at the moment
Question:	Are these for gdae banjo
Answer:	Yes, ESP Hard shell case included CMHFF
Question:	Can these strings be used in a tenor guitar
Answer:	No, it doesn't. But you can add one for an extra 100.00
Question:	What is the difference between the J60 and EJ60 strings? They seem the same based upon the description
Answer:	Yes it can it’s a great guitar at a good price. I play clean and it’s sounds great

Product features

D'ADDARIO BANJO STRINGS

FEATURES:

High carbon steel
Loop end construction for universal fit
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA
Corrosion resistant packaging for strings that are always fresh

GHS Strings PF145 5-String Banjo Strings, Stainless Steel, Medium Light (.010-.022)

GHS Strings

Based on 401 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GHS banjo strings are among the most played in the world. Our PF145 Stainless Steel set features specially designed loop ends and an extra long 42" winding to fit a variety of tailpieces and banjos. As always each string features the GHS Lock Twist to ensure your strings stay in tune.

Introducing our brand new NitroPack singles! Each single string is sealed in a nitrogen environment, eliminating all oxygen, in a tear-resistant package. Whether you use one string or the whole set, the NitroPack guarantees straight from the factory freshness!

ABOUT GHS STRINGS

GHS Strings are manufactured in a state-of-the-art, climate controlled facility using precision equipment and only the purest of materials. When you buy GHS strings you get quality, consistency, lasting intonation and superbly harmonious sound!

GHS Strings - The String Specialists since 1964.

PF145 Set: L10-L12-L13-LW22-L10

Model: PF145
Featuring NitroPack singles, guaranteed fresh from the factory!
Stainless Steel with extra large loop ends
42" Winding Length
Medium Light Gauge: 010-012-013-022w-010

User questions & answers

Question:	Description says loop end but picture is ball end. Which is it
Answer:	Mine were loop end.
Question:	Description says 10 - 10. Package says 9.5, which us it
Answer:	actually there are only 5 strings, I got the light guage with each string diameter between 9.5-12
Question:	What is the gauge
Answer:	9.5 to 20. It's on the front of the package.

D'Addario EJ61 Nickel 5-String Banjo Strings, Medium, 10-23

D'Addario

Based on 318 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EJ61, D'Addario' s most popular 5-string banjo set, provides the ideal balance of playing tension and bright, projecting tone. Loop end construction for universal fit. D'Addario banjo strings are trusted by legends like Ralph Stanley, Rob McCoury, Ron Block, Alison Brown, and more, for their authentic tone and reliable performance. They are made from the highest quality plain steel, stainless steel, nickel plated steel and phosphor bronze and available in a wide variety of gauges.

D'Addario's most popular 5-string banjo gauge, ideal for all playing styles
Loop end construction for universal fit
Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life
Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance
String Gauges: Plain Steel .010, .012, .016, Nickel Wound .023, Plain Steel .010
D'Addario's most popular 5-string banjo gauge, ideal for all playing styles^Loop end construction for universal fit^Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life^Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance^String Gauges: Plain Steel .010, .012, .016, Nickel Wound .023, Plain Steel .010

User questions & answers

Question:	What is the length of the strings?you
Answer:	Sorry but I only put these strings into my inventory before I closed up my business so never used them.
Question:	Can I put these on my electric guitar and tune it to E standard
Answer:	Thanks for your interest. No. That won't work. What you may want to consider is these: http://www.amazon.com/DAddario-EXL150H-Light-Heavy-Bottom/dp/B00NO54298/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1455632416&sr=8-3&keywords=EXL150H ORhttp://www.amazon.com/Daddario-Nickel-Electric-Guitar-Strings/dp/B00LMOWKJC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1455632461&sr=8-2&keywords=EPN21Jack / Jax Music Supply

Product features

D'ADDARIO BANJO STRINGS

FEATURES:

High carbon steel
Loop end construction for universal fit
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA
Corrosion resistant packaging for strings that are always fresh

GHS Strings PF160 5-String Banjo Strings, Phosphor Bronze, Medium (.011-.026)

GHS Strings

Based on 281 reviews Check latest price

Product description

GHS banjo strings are among the most played in the world. Our PF160 Phosphor Bronze set features specially designed loop ends and an extra long 42" winding to fit a variety of tailpieces and banjos. As always each string features the GHS Lock Twist to ensure your strings stay in tune.

ABOUT GHS STRINGS

GHS Strings - The String Specialists since 1964.

PF160 Set: L11-L13-L16-LB26-L10

Model: PF160
Featuring NitroPack singles, guaranteed to be fresh from the factory!
Phosphor Bronze with extra large loop ends
42" Winding Length
Light Gauge: 011-013-016-026w-010

User questions & answers

Question:	Are these ball-end or loop-end? Some of the photos show ball-end
Answer:	The strings I received were loop end.
Question:	Are these long enough to fit a Vega long neck banjo
Answer:	I do not know exact length, but I usually cut off about 12-15 "
Question:	What’s the difference between light and medium
Answer:	The gauge or thickness of the strings, light 1st string is a .10, medium 1st string would be 11.5 medium strings are larger and little harder to play.
Question:	What does "Phosphor Bronze" bring over regular stainless steel strings
Answer:	the bronze wound 4th may be a tad brighter in tone than nickel. I never tried a stainless steel wound 4th string. Almost all 5 string banjo sets use stainless steel for the other 4 strings including GHS PF 160 . However, I use This GHS PF160's for their specific gauges (not because of phospher bronze 4th wound)- PF 160 being a medium/heavy works well with my lower pitch banjo tunings I use. I also use GHS PF 150 string set it's slightly lighter - but still medium gauge - also with a bronze wound string. see less HSM answered on October 26, 2017 \| Delete

D'Addario XT Nickel Plated Steel Banjo Strings, Medium, 10-23 (XTJ1023)

D'Addario

Based on 141 reviews Check latest price

Product description

XT banjo nickel Plated steel strings feature an extended lifespan treatment on every single string in the set, preserving the natural tone and feel of uncoated strings. Available in light and medium gauges. Addario XT strings combine high carbon steel cores with an extended lifespan treatment on every string in the set, giving you enhanced break resistance, pitch stability, and long-lasting performance – All while preserving the tone and feel of your favorite uncoated strings. These strings are made to stay, for performance that never fades away.

XT strings feature an extended lifespan treatment on every string in the set, preserving the natural tone and feel of uncoated strings
High carbon steel wire and Fusion twist technologies deliver unrivaled tuning stability and break resistance. Strings stay in tune 131% better than traditional strings!
Strings last at least 4 times longer than traditional uncoated strings
The inner packaging features a re-sealable zip closure, for ease of opening as well as storage of unused strings
Every set includes a players circle Code for product identification, registration, and authentication. Players can collect points to get rewarded with D ’Addario products and merchandise

User questions & answers

Question:	Loop or ball
Answer:	Loop
Question:	Are these strings for a 5 string banjo
Answer:	Yes these are for a 5 string banjo.

Product features

D'ADDARIO BANJO STRINGS

FEATURES:

High carbon steel
Loop end construction for universal fit
Designed, engineered, and manufactured in the USA
Corrosion resistant packaging for strings that are always fresh

Martin Guitar Vega Banjo Strings V700, Light-Gauge Nickel-Wound Banjo Strings

MARTIN

Based on 127 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Martin's Vega Banjo Strings provide a dynamic response, tuning stability, and an excellent projected tone. Made from long-lasting nickel/steel alloy, these strings provide smooth consistency and superior tonal qualities. Designed to produce a full-bodied tone, these light-gauge strings provide excellent tuning stability and playability so your banjo can stand up to rigorous practice and performance schedules. This pack of professional-grade strings will last through long sing-alongs, late-night jam sessions, and plenty of picking. It's an ultra-reliable set of strings that you can take on tour or keep in the studio. Whether you're a beginner or professional musician, this set of banjo strings will help you play to your potential. With these banjo strings, you'll be able to play to your heart's content.

With this pack, you'll receive 5 light-gauge banjo strings designed for optimal playing performance. The D string measures 0.009", the B string measures 0.010", the low G string measures 0.013", the C string measures 0.020", and the high G string measures 0.009". This total set of banjo strings features a tension of 54.5, making it easy to get a full-bodied tone with an ultra-dynamic feel.

Martin Guitar has been producing high-quality, musician-choice instruments and accessories since 1833. The Martin Guitar Vega Banjo Strings are the real deal—not an imitation. Discover your instrument's true voice with this professional-grade string pack.

FULL-BODIED BANJO: Martin's Vega Banjo Strings offer maximum projection with dynamic response for a full-bodied tone, excellent playability, and strong sound. Made from nickel/steel alloy, this string set is ideal for all styles of banjo playing.
BLUEGRASS PERSONIFIED: Designed for optimal performance, these strings will help people pick on their front porch, in their backyard, or on the stage. Add these strings to your studio or touring gear today.
STRING SOUNDS: This pack of banjo strings delivers a strong mid-range response and full-bodied tone. They make it easy to play bluegrass, country, or any type of music.
LIGHT-GAUGE BANJO STRING: These are high-quality acoustic banjo strings that brighten the natural tuning of your instrument, including tenor, mid-tones, and bass. They feature a tension of 54.5.
VEGA BANJO: With Martin's Vega Banjo Strings, you get a total set of strings designed for performance and playability. Martin guitars and accessories remain the choice for musicians around the world for their unrivaled quality, craftsmanship, and tone.

User questions & answers

Question:	I assume only the 4th string (C .020 in.) is wound while others are solid silvered steel
Answer:	The Vega (V700 light) banjo strings I have, only the 4th string (C, .020 in) is wound. The strings are a nickel/steel alloy. Been using these strings for a couple of decades -- they work for me.
Question:	How long are these? Will fit longneck
Answer:	No sure the size but my customers have used them on a longneck.
Question:	Are these loop end or ball end
Answer:	These are loop end strings
Question:	Will these strings fit a long neck banjo
Answer:	Yes they will. These are standard length strings.

JYsun Banjo Strings 3 Full Sets of 5-String Stainless Steel Core Copper Alloy Wound & 1PC 3 in 1 Restringing Tool including String Winder String Cutter Pin Puller & 1PC Capo & 10PCS picks

Based on 15 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Packing list: 3 full sets of banjo strings(with 5pcs strings for each set) & 1pc 3 in 1 re-stringing tool & 1pc capo & 10pcs guitar picks

Specification of banjo strings:

D-1st

MATERIALS: stainless steel core COLOR: silvery DIAMETER: 0.009inch (0.23mm)

B-2nd:

MATERIALS: stainless steel core COLOR: silvery DIAMETER: 0.011inch (0.28mm)

G-3rd:

MATERIALS: stainless steel core COLOR: silvery DIAMETER: 0.013inch (0.33mm)

C-4th:

MATERIALS: stainless steel core copper alloy wound COLOR: golden DIAMETER: 0.020inch (0.51mm)

G-5th:

MATERIALS: stainless steel core COLOR: silvery DIAMETER: 0.009inch (0.23mm)

Capo:

1. Suitable for Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Bass, Banjo.

2. Made of aircraft-quality aluminum, with silicone pads, spring-action grip.

3.Capo tight on strings and no more fret buzz, stainless steel spring with internal memory to provide strength, it puts just enough pressure on the Instrument.

4.With silicone pads, it can protect your precious banjo from any scratches or damage.

5. Quickly and easily releases and re-positions with one hand without disturbing tuning, the strong spring action clamps it firmly in place.

6. Dimension: 3.1 x 3.0 x 0.7in (78 x 75 x 17 mm)

7.Weight: 1.65oz（47g）

Guitar Re-stringing kit:

1. Guitar cutter & guitar winder & guitar pin puller are built in, with ergonomic design and high-quality materials, it makes string replacements quicker and easier, it can be used for Guitar, Bass, Violin, Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin etc.

2. Materials: ABS and stainless steel, durable and comfortable.

3. Size: 4.5 x 2.0 x 0.9in(115 x5 0 x 22mm)

4. Weight:1.05oz(30g)

Guitar picks:

Thickness: 0.028in(0.7mm) Materials: ABS

Application: Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Bass, Mandolin, etc.

【GREAT VALUE BANJO STRINGS KIT:】Come with 3 full sets of banjo strings(with 5pcs strings for each set) & 1pc 3 in 1 re-stringing tool including string winder, string cutter, pin puller & 1pc capo & 10pcs picks. It is a good choice for your banjo string replacement and playing.
【HIGH QUALITY STRNGS:】Banjo strings are made of high-grade stainless steel, with copper alloy wound and special silver plating processing, so that the strings sound bright, crisp, with rich harmonic, they are durable for playing.
【3 IN 1 GUITAR RE-STRING KIT:】Guitar cutter & guitar winder & guitar pin puller are built in, with ergonomic design and high-quality materials, it makes string replacements quicker and easier, it can be used for Guitar, Bass, Violin, Ukulele, Banjo, Mandolin, etc.
【EASILY USED CAPO:】Quickly and easily released and re-positioned with one hand without disturbing tuning, the strong spring action clamps it firmly in place, suitable for Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Bass, Mandolin, etc.
【BONUS WITH 10 PCS GUITAR PICKS:】10 thick guitar picks are as a gift, the color will be sent randomly, the color of picks may be different from the picture, but the quality is same with various color, suitable for Guitar, Ukulele, Banjo, Bass, Mandolin, etc.

D'Addario EJ60+ 5-String Banjo Strings, Nickel, Light Plus, 9.5-20

D'Addario

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price

Product description

EJ60+ utilizes D'Addario' s revolutionary "half gauge" plain steels for a more customized tension/feel for light gauge players. Loop end construction for universal fit. D'Addario banjo strings are trusted by legends like Ralph Stanley, Rob McCoury, Ron Block, Alison Brown, and more, for their authentic tone and reliable performance. They are made from the highest quality plain steel, stainless steel, nickel plated steel and phosphor bronze and available in a wide variety of gauges.

Plus gauge plain steels for customized tension/feel
Loop end construction for universal fit
Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life
Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance
String Gauges: Plain Steel .0095, .011, .013, Nickel Wound .020, Plain Steel .0095
Plus gauge plain steels for customized tension/feel^Loop end construction for universal fit^Nickel-plated steel for bright tone, smooth feel and long life^Made in the U.S.A. for the highest quality and performance^String Gauges: Plain Steel .0095, .011, .013, Nickel Wound .020, Plain Steel .0095

User questions & answers

Question:	Is this considdered in between medium and light gauge
Answer:	I would say they are closer to the light than the medium gauge. They are bright in tone. You might explore the topic further in the forum on www.banjohangout.org. Lots of information there.