How to Tune a Guitar Without a Tuner (5th-Fret Method)
Quick answer
Get one string right, then tune each string to the one above it. Play the low E at the 5th fret and match the open A to it. Do the same for A to D and D to G. For the B string, use the 4th fret of the G string. Then the 5th fret of B gives you high E. Go through it twice.
Step by step
| Step | Play this fretted note | Match this open string |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get the low E right from a reference: a piano, another instrument, or our online tuner's Hear tone button. | |
| 2 | Low E string, 5th fret (A) | A string |
| 3 | A string, 5th fret (D) | D string |
| 4 | D string, 5th fret (G) | G string |
| 5 | G string, 4th fret (B) | B string |
| 6 | B string, 5th fret (E) | High E string |
The G-to-B step is the one people forget. Use the 5th fret there and your B and high E end up a half step too high.
How to hear when they match
- Play the fretted note, then the open string, then both together.
- When they are close but not equal you hear a wobble, or "beating". As they get closer the wobble slows; when it stops, they match.
- Not sure which way to turn? Loosen the open string a little below the note, then tune up to it. Tuning up also helps the string stay put.
No reference note at all?
You can still tune the guitar to itself: bring the low E to a firm, clear tone without buzzing, then follow the steps. Chords will sound right together, but you won't match a recording or another instrument until you tune to a reference.
When to use a tuner instead
- Every day when you are starting out - it is faster and trains your ear for what "in tune" sounds like.
- Before playing with others or along with songs.
- Use the free guitar tuner (your mic, no app), or compare tuner apps.
Still sounds off after tuning? Read why a guitar sounds bad even when tuned.
Safety notes
- Stop and rest if your hand, wrist or forearm aches; tension is the usual cause.
- Keep amp and headphone volume low to protect your hearing.
FAQ
Why is the B string different?
In standard tuning every neighbouring pair is a fourth apart except G and B, which are a major third apart, so you use the 4th fret instead of the 5th.
Is tuning by ear accurate?
It can be close, but small errors add up across six strings. Check with a tuner when you can, and go through the steps twice.
Can I use this on bass?
Yes. Bass strings E A D G are all a fourth apart, so the 5th fret works for every step.
Sources checked
- Gelvin Guitars: Tune by ear (checked Oct 22, 2026): gelvinguitars.com/tools/tune-by-ear.html
- Guitar à l'Orange: Tuning your guitar (checked Oct 22, 2026): guitaralorange.com/tuning
Not hands-on testing: FretCompare explains standard technique in its own words and links official pages for prices and terms.