Having a ukulele that has a low G string in your collection is no doubt going to expand your playing possibilities. You can have a low g uke without having to buy a new one either. It’s just a case of changing one of the strings.
Having a ukulele with a low G means the string that’s closest to the top of the uke is the deepest sounding string. This gives your playing a fuller sound. Traditionally, ukuleles have a high G. That’s what gives it the bright sound it is known for.
If you would like to sound like one of the many amazing ukulele players to profess to using a low g uke. Keep reading this article and let’s explore the topic in more depth.
Is It The Same As A High G
The second difference is the thickness of the strings. Thicker strings produce deeper notes that tend to ring out longer.
A quick visual check will tell you if a ukulele has a low or high G string. If its thicker than the C string below it, its going to be a low G.
Can I Use The Same String?
So, Which One Is Best?
Ultimately, it all boils down to opinion and preference. The traditional sound of a ukulele really leans towards using a high G. Yet, its popularity is growing at a rapid rate. The “rules” of what’s right and wrong are becoming blurred and you can do whatever you like with it. Let’s discuss the benefits of each one.
Low G
- Deeper sound.
- Extra 5 low notes, meaning you have to transpose songs less.
- Allows you to play chord progressions that can accent a bass line.
- Chords sound fuller
High G
Now on to the benifits of using a high G.
- Traditional ukulele sound.
- Extremely common, easy to find songs to play
- Most music shops stock these strings
- You can play the song melody on the high G while strumming.
How Do They Sound
We know the difference and the benefits of them both, now the important part. What does a low G sound like compared to a high G? The following videos are examples of me using both of them. I’m playing a Kala Exoctic Tenor for the low and a Kala Comfort Edge for the high.
Low G
Chords played with a low G ukulele.
Fingerpicking with a low G ukulele.
High G
Chords played with a high G ukulele.
Fingerpicking with a high G ukulele.
Low G Strings
There are a plethora of low g strings to choose from online. I have compiled a list from amazon based on their reviews.
| Strings | Name | Rating |
|---|---|---|
  |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.7 out of 5 |
|
  |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5 out of 5 |
|
  |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.2 out of 5 |
|
  |
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 out of 5 |
My personal recommendation for low G strings is Living Water. They are made from pure fluorocarbon and sound great on any ukulele. They are made by Ken Middleton in England but he ships worldwide.
