I researched a bunch of acoustic guitar strings and found D’Addario XS Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings to be the best acoustic guitar strings out there.
These acoustic strings deliver great sound while having superior protection so you can keep that great sound for longer. D’Addario describes these strings as the “most innovative” strings they have made.
Acoustic guitar strings seem like a very simple thing you need for your guitar. However, there is so much more about these “simple” strings than meets the eye.
In this article, I will go through the top strings and explain each of its benefits and drawbacks. I will also lay out all of the factors you need to take into account when buying guitar strings so that you can make a better decision based on your preferences.
(NOTICE: Make sure to check out our acoustic guitar string buyer guide section in this article so that you can understand the benefits and features mentioned. We will mention terms like gauge, phosphor, hexagonal core, etc. Sounds confusing? Then I’ll suggest one more time to check the buyer guide section.)
Our Verdict
The D’Addario XS Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar strings are the best acoustic guitar strings out there. Here’s why:
D’Addario has perfected the sound quality of their strings over a long period of time. These strings are no exception.
The strings also have a perfect amount of coating, it’s coated enough so that it can prevent dirt from getting on to the strings, while still feeling smooth. It’s durability is second to none.
Acoustic Guitar Strings Mini-Reviews
Here, we will go through the top 10 best acoustic guitar strings. In each of these ten products we will go through the specs, pros and cons, and a paragraph about it.
1. D’Addario XS Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .013-.056 Medium
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor Bronze
- Coating: Yes
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Thinly Coated
- Long Lasting Tone
- Smooth Feel
- Fusion Twist for
- Tuning Stability
- Very Durable
Cons
- A bit expensive
Pros
- Thinly Coated
- Long Lasting Tone
- Smooth Feel
- Fusion Twist for
- Tuning Stability
- Very Durable
Cons
- A bit expensive
The D’Addario XS acoustic strings deliver great protection and durability without sacrificing that great D’Addario sound and tone. The sound has always been good from D’Addario, it’s something they perfected for a long time. The surprise is its great sound while still having many protection features. The sound is obviously great but the durability is where these strings shine.
Although it’s a little bit more pricy than the rest of the strings, D’Addario promises long-lasting strings so you wouldn’t need to buy new ones to re-string for longer. With a NY steel hex core, an ultra-thin layer of coating, a hint of phosphor, and a fusion twist, they fulfill their promise with flying colors. Durability is the number 1 thing they promote.
The coating is great for fighting dirt and sweat that can corrode the string. However, some complain that it can get slippery. That’s why D’Addario coats their strings with a unique polymer treatment to give them great protection while also having an awesome feel.
That’s why we had to give D’Addario the “best acoustic guitar strings” title.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
2. Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze Acoustic Strings
Specs:
- Guage: .012-.054
- Core Material: Maraging Steel
- Winding Material: Aluminum Bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Aluminum for durability
- Maraging hex steel also for durability
- More projection
- Powerful low-end response
- Very rich tone
Cons
- No coating
Pros
- Aluminum for durability
- Maraging hex steel also for durability
- More projection
- Powerful low-end response
- Very rich tone
Cons
- No coating
The Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze strings make their strings sound bigger and better. By that, mean bigger projection and better tone. The unique aluminum bronze winding is behind all of that. They promise enhanced lows, punchy mids, and crisp highs.
The aluminum bronze is also used as a resistance to acid, sweat, and string contamination. So even though there is no coating being applied to these strings, the aluminum in the winding accounts for that. The maraging steel hex core further provides protection and durability for long-lasting sound.
On Sweetwater’s page, they put this video with the Ernie Ball Aluminum Bronze strings playing in the background. I HAD to put it in, it sounded so sweet! Take a listen:
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
No packs available
3. Elixir Strings Nanoweb Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.052
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor Bronze
- Coating: Yes (Nanoweb)
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Nanoweb coating
- Warm tone
- Long life
- Phosphor for a better sound
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Some say the coating comes off too quickly
Pros
- Nanoweb coating
- Warm tone
- Long life
- Phosphor for a better sound
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Some say the coating comes off too quickly
These strings are equipped with a special coating that is a barrier for tone-killing guck. The coat is designed to do a great job while still having a non-coated feel. They claim the coat is long-lasting, however, there are few who complain otherwise. It could be those that complained got a bad set. I’m still skeptical.
They also have a great focused and vibrant tone which is great for breathing life into dark-sounding guitars like mahogany.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
4. Dean Markley Blue Steel Bronze Cryogenic Activated Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.054
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: Vintage Bronze (92% Copper, 8% Zinc)
- Coating: No (Cryo-tech activated)
- Core Shape: Round
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Cryo-tech applied for tone
- Cryo-tech also for longevity
- Flexible
Cons
- No coating might result in strings getting dirty
Pros
- Cryo-tech applied for tone
- Cryo-tech also for longevity
- Flexible
Cons
- No coating might result in strings getting dirty
These may look like regular strings, but looks can be deceiving. Each of the Dean Markley Blue steel strings have cryo-tech activated. “What is that?” You may ask. It’s a quick blast of liquid nitrogen (hence the name blue steel) which chills the metal to re-align the molecules. What this means for you is longevity and great tone.
The fact that it has no coating can be bothersome, it causes the strings to be a bit dirty. The cryo-tech is supposed to also account for that but I don’t think it would make the strings cleaner than a coating would. But no coating also means you wouldn’t need to worry about the strings being slippery.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
No packs available
5. D'Addario Nickel Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.056
- Core Material: NY Steel
- Winding Material: Nickel Bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Nickel bronze winding for enhanced resonance
- Enhanced natural sound
- NY steel core for 13% lower string breakage
- Light top to make it easier to press down
Cons
- No coating
- Low-tone color (some see this as a pro)
Pros
- Nickel bronze winding for enhanced resonance
- Enhanced natural sound
- NY steel core for 13% lower string breakage
- Light top to make it easier to press down
Cons
- No coating
- Low-tone color (some see this as a pro)
These strings from D’Addario are wrapped uniquely with nickel bronze instead of just bronze or phosphor bronze. What that means for you is a more natural and balanced sound and enhanced resonance. These strings also boost the natural sound and harmonics of the guitar you have
The gauge system on these strings is unique. Its size isn’t just light, medium, or heavy. It’s got light on the top to make the big strings easier to press down while having a medium gauge on the lower strings which is the norm for the bottom strings.
The issue for some is the lack of coating which can result in corrosion in the strings.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
No packs available
No packs available
6. Martin Authentic Acoustic Lifespan 2.0 Treated Phosphor Bronze Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .013-.056
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor Bronze
- Coating: Yes
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Designed by C.F Martin for superior tone
- High-quality materials
- Strings subject to Martin’s rigorous test
Cons
- A bit pricey
Pros
- Long-lasting
- Designed by C.F Martin for superior tone
- High-quality materials
- Strings subject to Martin’s rigorous test
Cons
- A bit pricey
Martin is a guitar company that believes the guitar’s strings are the most important final touch to the guitar, that’s why they made their own. The aspect they preach about most in these strings is its longevity. Their own coating formula, the phosphorus, and the steel core help fulfill that.
They put their strings through Martin’s vigorous test to prove it’s durability. The durability, however, comes at a cost. You are paying more to have them for longer.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
2-pack (With 2 different gauge sizes to try out)
7. Ernie Ball Earthwood Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .010-.050
- Core Material: Tin-plated steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor Bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Flexible
- Tine-plated steel for durability
- Mellow tone
- Easy to press down
Cons
- Light gauge may make it lack longevity
- No coating
Pros
- Flexible
- Tine-plated steel for durability
- Mellow tone
- Easy to press down
Cons
- Light gauge may make it lack longevity
- No coating
These guitar strings from Ernie Ball aim for a more mellow than bright tone. It’s got a light gauge which is great for fingerpicking and vibrato. However, the light gauge may cause it to be more flimsy and not as full in sound. The tin-plated steel is there to account for its flimsiness, but at the end of the day, it’s still a light gauge which is flimsy by default.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
8. Fender 70L 80/20 Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.052
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: 80/20 Bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Cheap
- Name you trust
- Standard sound quality
Cons
- Not so long-lasting
- No coating, susceptible to corrosion
Pros
- Cheap
- Name you trust
- Standard sound quality
Cons
- Not so long-lasting
- No coating, susceptible to corrosion
Honestly, there is nothing really special in regard to its quality. If anything it might be the strings that you will need to replace the fastest. It has no coating and no phosphor to fight against corrosion.
The reason why it was worth putting on this list is because of how cheap it is. Fender is a very trustworthy name. They make almost anything that has to do with music. The fact that they can make the standard product for extremely cheap is great for some people.
I wouldn’t recommend these for a pro or even intermediate players since it lacks some quality features that other strings have on this list. However, I would highly recommend these strings to beginners who are just starting out. It would give beginners a basic set of strings to get them off their feet for extremely cheap.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
3-pack (it would be cheaper to buy 3 individually instead of this pack, but the link is there is you want it)
No pack available
9. D’Addario EJ16 Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Guitar Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.053
- Core Material: Steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Hex
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- Easy to bend
- Great for beginners
- Affordable
- Phosphor for corrosion resistance
- Balanced sound
Cons
- No coating
- Not long-lasting
Pros
- Easy to bend
- Great for beginners
- Affordable
- Phosphor for corrosion resistance
- Balanced sound
Cons
- No coating
- Not long-lasting
These D’Addario strings are also meant to give the basic features for beginners to get started just like the Fender strings mentioned before. These D’Addario strings have better sound than the fender strings, and also have phosphor for corrosion resistance that the fender strings don’t have.
However, the D’Addario strings are still affordable, but still more expensive than the fender strings. And if both of these strings are for beginners anyway, I would get the cheaper one even though it might have less quality. That’s why the Fender strings are higher on this list, but really these D’addario strings are better quality.
So, if you are a beginner that’s willing to spend a little more on quality, I would go for these strings over the Fender strings.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
10. Curt Mangan Fusion Matched Phosphor Bronze Acoustic Strings
Specs:
- Gauge: .012-.056
- Core Material: Tin-plated high-carbon steel
- Winding Material: Phosphor bronze
- Coating: No
- Core Shape: Round core
- Winding: Roundwound
Pros
- High carbon steel for protection
Round core for flexibility
Cons
- No coating
- Round core makes it a bit flimsy
Pros
- High carbon steel for protection
Round core for flexibility
Cons
- No coating
- Round core makes it a bit flimsy
These strings are made by someone who is a musician himself, Curt. Curt still records professionally, check them out here. It’s a company where Curt himself is involved to make quality strings. The strings are handmade and have a comfortable playing field.
However, these strings have a round core which is more flexible than a hex core, but it makes it more flimsy at the same time. It also has no coating which can make these strings susceptible to corrosion.
Bundle and Save!
If you are looking to buy more than just one pack, you can buy multiple packs of strings that would be cheaper than buying individually. Here are some links so you can save on bundles:
No packs available
No packs available
Guitar Strings Feature Table
| # | Product | Name | Gauge | Materials | Coating? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |   | D’Addario XS | .013-.056 | Phosphor Bronze | Yes |
| 2 |   | Ernie Ball AB | .012-.054 | Aluminum Bronze | No |
| 3 |   | Elixir Strings Nanoweb | .012-.052 | Phosphor Bronze | Yes |
| 4 |   | Dean Markley Blue Steel | .012-.054 | Vintage Bronze | No |
| 5 |   | D'Addario NB | .012-.056 | Nickel Bronze | No |
| 6 |   | Martin Authentic | .013-.056 | Phosphor Bronze | Yes |
| 7 |   | Ernie Ball Earthwood | .010-.050 | Phosphor Bronze | No |
| 8 |   | Fender 70L | .012-.052 | 80/20 Bronze | No |
| 9 |   | D’Addario EJ16 | .012-.053 | Phosphor Bronze | No |
| 10 |   | Curt Mangan Strings | .012-.056 | Phosphor Bronze | No |
Guitar String Buyer Guide
Here is the part of this article that is gonna teach you everything you need to know about guitar strings so that you can make a decision on your own. The knowledge in this part is what got us to our top pick, but if you want strings that are more adherent to your needs, here are the things you are gonna want to look out for.
Here are the parts of the guitar strings we will talk about: gauge/string diameter, string material, the core of the strings, material around the core of the string (the winding), and whether you should choose strings with coating or not.
How Its Made/ String Parts
Before we get into what to look for in guitar strings, we first need to know its parts and how it’s made. It’s quite simple actually, it’s made with a metal core, with another wire of metal wound around the core.
Here is a 5-Minute “How It’s Made” video on guitar strings:
Gauge
What is that?
String gauge is the thickness of a guitar string. It is measured in 1/100th of an inch. For example, a 12 gauge string is 0.012 inches. Guitar string packs are usually referred to by their thinnest string.
Different Gauge Sizes
There are many different sizes but they all fall under two simple categories: heavy gauge and light gauge.
Heavy gauge strings are the thicker set of strings. Heavy gauge strings start at 0.014 inches.
Light gauge strings are the thinner set of strings. Light gauge strings start at 0.009 inches.
There are different terms for string gauge that you might come around. ErnieBall is a company that uses these terms. Here they are:
- Extra Slinky: 0.008 – 0.032
- Super Slinky: 0.009 – 0.042
- Regular Slinky: 0.010 – 0.046
- Power Slinky: 0.011 – 0.048
- Beefy Slinky: 0.011 – 0.054
- Not Even Slinky: 0.012 – 0.056
Which Gauge Size is the Best?
There is no such thing as one being better than the other. Each of them has its benefits. Look at the benefits below and see which aspects fit you better.
Benefits of Light Gauge
- Easier to bend for vibrato
- Easier to press down on
- Less strain on the neck
- More responsive for fingerpicking
Benefits of Heavy Gauge
- More sound depth
- Able to hold more tension
- Able to stay in tune for longer
- More durable
Benefits of Light Gauge
- Easier to bend for vibrato
- Easier to press down on
- Less strain on the neck
- More responsive for fingerpicking
Benefits of Heavy Gauge
- More sound depth
- Able to hold more tension
- Able to stay in tune for longer
- More durable
These are the 2 extreme gauge sizes with their benefits. Anything in between is usually called a medium gauge. You will find more medium gauges since they have an even mix of the qualities people like from low and high-gauge strings.
For more information on guitar string gauges click here.
Material Around the Core/ Winding
There are around 6 different guitar string materials. Each material has certain benefits that the other materials don’t. So go through the benefits of each material and see which fits you best!
80/20 Bronze or Brass
The 80/20 strings (some people call it brass and bronze) are made up of 80% copper and 20% zinc. These strings are one of the most common strings. These strings can cover most playing styles. The sound comes off bright and cutting.
Phosphor Bronze
These strings are made up of 92% copper and 8% bronze. It also has a trace of phosphor hence the name. The phosphor helps prevent corroding. What this means in durability terms is that it will last longer than 80/20 bronze strings. These strings also come off warmer than other strings.
Nickel Plated Steel
Nickel-plated steel strings are made up of 92% steel and 8% nickel. These strings are mostly used for electric guitars. They are great for brightness, clarity, and punchy lows.
Pure Steel
These strings are also great for brightness and it has a lot more output. This makes it great for genres with more distortion. These strings are also mostly used for electric guitars.
Nylon
These strings are made for that classical guitar sound. They don’t even go by thickness or gauge size, it goes by high or low tension. Low-tension nylon strings are the ones easier to play with but don’t have as much projection, while the high-tension nylon strings are loud and precise.
If you are interested here are some to look at:
- Fender Nylon Classical Strings
- D’Addario Pro Arte Nylon Strings
- Havendi Nylon Strings
- Martin Nylon Strings
Catgut
These strings are literally strings from animal intestines. This is what they used back in the day. Not gonna go too much into it since you probably won’t want this, but it exists.
For more information on guitar string materials click here.
Core of the Strings
Hex core
This is the core that is commonly used. The hex core gives off a tighter sound than the round core. The hex-core is also more durable, if you happen to play through the cover wire it will still work.
Round core
The round core has more of an open sound. The round core isn’t as durable because when the cover wire gets too weak the round core will start to unravel. After that, the string is pretty much gone. The round core is also a bit more flexible which is great for vibrato.
Flat Wound VS Round Wound
Besides the core of a string, the string also has a wire wrapped around it. Some are wrapped where you can see the rings of the wire wrapped around the core. These are known as round-wound strings. Some are wrapped with their wire flattened. Flattened wire strings are also known as flat-wound strings.
Flatwound strings can be used for fretless instruments or can be used on guitar for warm tones and a smooth feel. However, most acoustic guitars don’t use this type of winding. That’s why none of the guitars on this list are flat-wound.
Roundwound strings sound brighter and they are more balanced throughout the frequency spectrum.
For more info check out sweetwater’s page flatwound vs roundwound.
Coating or not?
What is it?
Some strings have a certain coating that helps protect the string and prolong its use. It uses corrosion-resistant properties which help fight against sweat, oil, and climate change.
Pro
- Protects the string
- Prolongs its use
- Keeps the string clean
Con
- It can dampen the high end
- Might feel a bit slippery
- Slightly affects the tone
Check out ErnieBall’s article on this here.
Pro Tip
All of these factors involved in strings cause many variations of strings. So in the back of most packaging, the company puts the features there to let you know where the strings shine most. So it’s always good to look there before buying one.
Also always keep the package, you never know when you will want to change them. Also its great to have it to remember which strings you got and always refer to the features mentioned on the packaging.
FAQ
In the section we will go through the frequently asked question that people have about guitar strings.
When would I need to change my strings?
For an ordinary set of strings you would need to change them every 3 months.
Here are some signs it’s about time you need to change your strings:
- Dull Tone
- Feel Dirty
- If they start to discolor
- Won’t Tune
- Strings are stiff
For more information on this click here.
What can I do to preserve my strings?
1. Use coated strings
Like mentioned before, sweat, dirt and other things can cause string to corrode. When the string corrodes the metal starts to deteriorate and the tone of the string can get dull real quick. That’s why many strings are made with coating to prevent corrosion
2. Wash your hands before playing
Most of the dirt that gets to your strings come from your hand. So to prevent the dirt from getting there to begin with, simply wash your hands before touching the strings.
3. Wipe them down
Even if you wash your hands there can still be a way for the dirt and sweat to get to your strings. that’s why its extremely beneficial to wipe the strings down after you play so you don’t let the dirt and sweat that’s there sit on the strings for a long time.
4. Put your guitar in a case
Dirt can get on your guitar strings even when you are not playing. Just by leaving it out the dirt can accumulate on the strings. An easy way to prevent this is putting it in a case so the strings aren’t exposed .
5. Use a string cleaner
String cleaners are basically a more efficient way of wiping down your strings. Not only does it clean the strings and extend the string’s life, but it smoothens the fretboard. They’re very cheap, you can try the strings cleaners from Ernie Ball, click here.
See our ultimate guide to string cleaning.
Can I change my guitar strings without tools?
Simply, yes! however it will definitely take longer and you might poke yourself if you try doing it with your hands. If you want to switch them with tools, the tools you would need are wire cutters and a pair of peg winders.
I recommend trying out this tool from D’Addario. It’s a 3-in-1 tool that acts as a peg winder, a guitar string cutter, and a guitar bridge pin puller. Click here.
Final Thoughts
To sum it all up, here are our top 10 best acoustic guitar strings. We picked the D’Addario XS Phosphor Bronze acoustic guitar strings for its unbelievable sound and unmatched protection.
Wanna make a decision for your own? refer back to our guitar string buyer guide to learn everything you need to know before you make your decision. We go through the gauge, winding, core, materials of the strings and more!
If you have any other question about guitar strings, check out our FAQ section and cross your fingers your question is there. I hope I covered it.
If you aren’t even sure if guitar is even right for you check out our page bass vs guitar.
I hope you enjoyed!
