Electric Guitar String Gauge Selection Guide: Action Height & Setup 2025

Choosing the right string gauge for your electric guitar is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a guitarist. The string action and action height of your instrument are directly influenced by your string gauge selection, affecting everything from playability to tone and sustain.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand how string gauge affects electric guitar string height, guitar action height, and overall performance. Whether you're looking to achieve low string action for easier playing or need to understand how to adjust string action on electric guitar, this guide covers everything you need to know.

For complete setup instructions, see our Telecaster Setup Guide and Telecaster Truss Rod Adjustment guides. These measurements are based on the specifications in our comprehensive Ultimate Telecaster Setup Guide.

Photo by Eric Parks on Unsplash

Understanding String Gauge and Action Height

String gauge refers to the thickness of your guitar strings, measured in thousandths of an inch. The relationship between string gauge and action height is fundamental to your guitar's setup and playability.

How String Gauge Affects Action Height

Heavier strings (higher gauge numbers) require more tension to reach pitch, which can:

• Increase neck relief due to higher tension
• Require higher action to prevent fret buzz
• Provide more sustain and fuller tone
• Make bending more difficult but offer better tuning stability

Lighter strings (lower gauge numbers) have less tension, allowing for:

• Lower action without fret buzz
• Easier bending and vibrato techniques
• Less sustain but more responsive playing
• Potential tuning stability issues if too light

Electric Guitar String Height Chart

Here's a comprehensive electric guitar string height chart showing standard measurements for different string gauges:

Standard String Height Measurements (12th Fret)

String Height at 12th Fret by Genre

Rock/Metal Players:

• Action Height: 1.6-2.0mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .010-.046 or .011-.048
• Benefits: Good sustain, clear notes, comfortable for fast playing

Jazz Players:

• Action Height: 2.0-2.5mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .011-.048 or .012-.052
• Benefits: Fuller tone, better for fingerpicking, enhanced sustain

Country/Blues Players:

• Action Height: 1.6-1.8mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .009-.042 or .010-.046
• Benefits: Easy bending, bright tone, responsive to touch

How to Adjust String Action on Electric Guitar

Step 1: Measure Current Action Height

Use a Jim Dunlop String Height Gauge to measure your current string height at 12th fret:

1. Capo the first fret to eliminate nut height variables
2. Press the string at the last fret (usually 22nd or 24th)
3. Measure at the 12th fret between the bottom of the string and top of the fret
4. Record measurements for all six strings

Step 2: Adjust Bridge Height

For Stratocaster-style bridges:

• Use bridge height screws to raise or lower the entire bridge
• Make small adjustments (1/4 turn at a time)
• Check for buzz after each adjustment

For detailed Stratocaster tremolo setup, see our Stratocaster Tremolo Setup Guide.

For Telecaster-style bridges:

• Adjust individual saddle heights using Allen wrenches
• Maintain proper radius across all strings
• Use a D'Addario Multi-Tool for precise adjustments

For comprehensive Telecaster setup, see our Telecaster Setup Guide.

For Tune-o-matic bridges:

• Adjust bridge posts to change overall height
• Fine-tune individual saddles for perfect radius
• Check intonation after height adjustments

Step 3: Set String Height for Your Gauge

For Light Gauge (.009-.042):

• Target Action: 1.2-1.7mm at 12th fret
• Benefits: Easy bending, low string action
• Considerations: May require more frequent tuning

For Regular Gauge (.010-.046):

• Target Action: 1.6-2.0mm at 12th fret
• Benefits: Balanced tension and tone
• Considerations: Most versatile for different styles

For Heavy Gauge (.011-.048):

• Target Action: 1.8-2.3mm at 12th fret
• Benefits: Better sustain, fuller tone
• Considerations: Requires more finger strength

String Action Measurement Tools

Essential Tools for Action Adjustment

String Height Gauge:

• Jim Dunlop String Height Gauge - Precise measurements in both inches and millimeters
• Features: Multiple measurement scales, easy-to-read markings
• Use: Measure string height at any fret position

Multi-Tool:

• D'Addario Multi-Tool - All-in-one setup tool
• Features: Allen wrenches, screwdrivers, string winder
• Use: Bridge and saddle adjustments

Precision Tuner:

• Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner - Accurate tuning for setup
• Features: Chromatic tuning, strobe mode
• Use: Check intonation after action adjustments

How to Lower the Action on an Electric Guitar

Method 1: Bridge Height Adjustment

Stratocaster/Telecaster:

1. Loosen strings slightly to reduce tension
2. Lower bridge height screws (turn counterclockwise)
3. Make small adjustments (1/4 turn at a time)
4. Retune and test for fret buzz
5. Repeat until desired action is achieved

Tune-o-matic Bridge:

1. Lower bridge posts using appropriate wrench
2. Check saddle height and adjust if necessary
3. Test playability across the entire neck
4. Fine-tune individual saddle heights

Method 2: Saddle Height Adjustment

Individual String Adjustment:

1. Identify problem strings that are too high
2. Use Allen wrench to lower specific saddles
3. Maintain proper radius across all strings
4. Check for buzz on each string
5. Test bending and vibrato techniques

Method 3: Neck Relief Adjustment

Truss Rod Adjustment:

1. Measure neck relief at 8th fret
2. Adjust truss rod if relief is excessive
3. Allow 24 hours for neck to settle
4. Recheck action after relief adjustment
5. Fine-tune bridge height as needed

Electric Guitar String Action by Guitar Type

Fender Stratocaster String Height

Standard Stratocaster Action:

• High E: 1.5mm (12th fret)
• Low E: 2.0mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .009-.042 or .010-.046
• Bridge Type: 6-saddle tremolo bridge

Stratocaster String Height at 12th Fret MM:

• Light Gauge: 1.2-1.7mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.5-2.0mm
• Heavy Gauge: 1.8-2.3mm

For detailed Stratocaster setup, see our Stratocaster Setup Guide and Stratocaster Tremolo Setup.

Fender Telecaster String Height

Standard Telecaster Action:

• High E: 1.6mm (12th fret)
• Low E: 2.0mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .010-.046 (most common)
• Bridge Type: 3-saddle or 6-saddle bridge

Telecaster String Height 12th Fret MM:

• Light Gauge: 1.2-1.6mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.6-2.0mm
• Heavy Gauge: 1.8-2.3mm

For comprehensive Telecaster setup, see our Telecaster Setup Guide and Telecaster Wiring Diagram Guide.

Telecaster Pickup Height Specifications

Pickup height adjustment is crucial for achieving the desired tone and volume balance between the strings. The proximity of the pickups to the strings affects the output and tonal characteristics.

Standard Telecaster Pickup Height

Bridge Pickup (measured when string is pressed at last fret):

• Bass side (Low E): 2.4mm from string to pickup
• Treble side (High E): 2.0mm from string to pickup

Neck Pickup:

• Bass side (Low E): 2.8mm from string to pickup
• Treble side (High E): 2.4mm from string to pickup

Pickup Height by String Gauge

Gibson Les Paul String Height

Standard Les Paul Action:

• High E: 1.5mm (12th fret)
• Low E: 2.0mm (12th fret)
• String Gauge: .010-.046 or .011-.048
• Bridge Type: Tune-o-matic with stop tailpiece

Setting Up Guitar Action: Complete Process

Pre-Setup Checklist

Before starting your setup:

• Clean your guitar thoroughly
• Install fresh strings of your chosen gauge
• Gather all necessary tools
• Set up a clean workspace
• Allow strings to stretch for 24 hours

Step-by-Step Action Setup

1. Check Neck Relief

• Measure relief at 8th fret with capo on 1st fret
• Target relief: 0.010-0.012 inches
• Adjust truss rod if necessary
• Allow settling time before proceeding

2. Set Bridge Height

• Start with bridge at medium height
• Check for buzz on all strings
• Adjust height until buzz is eliminated
• Maintain proper radius across strings

3. Adjust Individual Saddles

• Fine-tune each string to desired height
• Check intonation after height adjustments
• Test playability across entire neck
• Verify no buzz on any string

4. Final Intonation Check

• Use precision tuner for accurate intonation
• Check 12th fret harmonic vs fretted note
• Adjust saddle positions as needed
• Retune and test all strings

String Gauge Selection by Playing Style

Light Gauge (.009-.042) - "Super Slinky"

Best for:

• Beginner players learning proper technique
• Bending and vibrato techniques
• Fingerstyle playing
• Jazz and smooth playing styles

Action Height: 1.2-1.7mm at 12th fret Benefits: Easy bending, low string action, comfortable playing Drawbacks: Less sustain, potential tuning issues

Get Light Gauge Strings (.009-.042) - Ernie Ball Super Slinky

Regular Gauge (.010-.046) - "Regular Slinky"

Best for:

• Most playing styles
• Balanced tone and playability
• Country and rock music
• General-purpose use

Action Height: 1.5-2.0mm at 12th fret Benefits: Balanced tension, good sustain, versatile Drawbacks: None significant

Get Regular Gauge Strings (.010-.046) - Ernie Ball Regular Slinky

Medium Gauge (.011-.048) - "Power Slinky"

Best for:

• Down-tuned playing
• Heavy rock and metal
• Players who prefer more resistance
• Enhanced sustain and volume

Action Height: 1.8-2.3mm at 12th fret Benefits: More sustain, fuller tone, better for aggressive playing Drawbacks: Requires more finger strength

Get Medium Gauge Strings (.011-.048) - Ernie Ball Power Slinky

Heavy Gauge (.012-.052) - "Extra Slinky"

Best for:

• Jazz players
• Down-tuned metal
• Players seeking maximum sustain
• Baritone guitar applications

Action Height: 2.0-2.5mm at 12th fret Benefits: Maximum sustain, full tone, stable tuning Drawbacks: Difficult bending, requires strong fingers

Action Height for Electric Guitar by Genre

Rock and Metal

Recommended Action: 1.5-2.0mm at 12th fret String Gauge: .010-.046 or .011-.048 Benefits: Clear notes, good sustain, comfortable for fast playing Considerations: May need higher action for heavy picking

Jazz

Recommended Action: 2.0-2.5mm at 12th fret String Gauge: .011-.048 or .012-.052 Benefits: Fuller tone, better for fingerpicking, enhanced sustain Considerations: Higher action allows for cleaner articulation

Country and Blues

Recommended Action: 1.5-1.8mm at 12th fret String Gauge: .009-.042 or .010-.046 Benefits: Easy bending, bright tone, responsive to touch Considerations: Lower action facilitates bending techniques

Classical and Fingerstyle

Recommended Action: 2.0-2.5mm at 12th fret String Gauge: .011-.048 or .012-.052 Benefits: Clear separation of notes, better for fingerpicking Considerations: Higher action prevents finger noise

Common String Action Problems and Solutions

Problem 1: Fret Buzz

Causes:

• Action too low for string gauge
• Uneven frets or neck relief issues
• Incorrect saddle height adjustment
• String gauge too light for playing style

Solutions:

• Raise action slightly until buzz stops
• Check neck relief and adjust truss rod
• Level frets if necessary
• Consider heavier string gauge

Problem 2: High Action

Causes:

• Bridge height set too high
• Excessive neck relief requiring high action
• String gauge too heavy for setup
• Saddle height not properly adjusted

Solutions:

• Lower bridge height gradually
• Adjust truss rod to reduce relief
• Consider lighter string gauge
• Fine-tune saddle heights

Problem 3: Inconsistent Action Across Strings

Causes:

• Improper saddle height adjustment
• Uneven fret height or neck radius
• Bridge not properly aligned
• String gauge mismatch between strings

Solutions:

• Adjust individual saddles to proper height
• Check neck radius and match saddle curve
• Ensure bridge alignment is correct
• Use consistent string gauge across set

Problem 4: Action Changes After String Change

Causes:

• Different string gauge affecting tension
• Strings not properly stretched
• Neck relief adjusting to new tension
• Bridge height not compensated for gauge change

Solutions:

• Stretch new strings thoroughly
• Allow 24 hours for neck to settle
• Readjust action after strings stabilize
• Match string gauge to previous setup

Best Guitar Action: Finding Your Sweet Spot

Low String Action (1.2-1.5mm)

Benefits:

• Easy playing and fast technique
• Comfortable for long practice sessions
• Responsive to light touch
• Good for bending and vibrato

Drawbacks:

• Potential fret buzz if too low
• Less sustain than higher action
• May require more precise setup

Medium String Action (1.5-2.0mm)

Benefits:

• Balanced playability and tone
• Good sustain without being difficult to play
• Versatile for different playing styles
• Less prone to fret buzz

Drawbacks:

• May feel high for some players
• Requires more finger strength than low action

High String Action (2.0-2.5mm)

Benefits:

• Maximum sustain and volume
• Clear note separation for complex chords
• Better for fingerpicking and classical technique
• Less prone to fret buzz

Drawbacks:

• More difficult to play fast
• Requires more finger strength
• Can cause fatigue during long sessions

Electric Guitar String Action Height MM: Detailed Measurements

Precision Measurements by String

High E String (1st string):

• Light Gauge: 1.2mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.5mm
• Heavy Gauge: 1.8mm

B String (2nd string):

• Light Gauge: 1.3mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.6mm
• Heavy Gauge: 1.9mm

G String (3rd string):

• Light Gauge: 1.4mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.7mm
• Heavy Gauge: 2.0mm

D String (4th string):

• Light Gauge: 1.5mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.8mm
• Heavy Gauge: 2.1mm

A String (5th string):

• Light Gauge: 1.6mm
• Regular Gauge: 1.9mm
• Heavy Gauge: 2.2mm

Low E String (6th string):

• Light Gauge: 1.7mm
• Regular Gauge: 2.0mm
• Heavy Gauge: 2.3mm

Setting Action on Electric Guitar: Professional Tips

Tip 1: Start with Neck Relief

Always adjust neck relief first:

• Measure relief at 8th fret with capo on 1st fret
• Target relief: 0.010-0.012 inches
• Allow 24 hours for neck to settle after adjustment
• Recheck relief before proceeding with action

Tip 2: Use Proper Tools

Essential tools for action setup:

• Jim Dunlop String Height Gauge - Precise measurements
• D'Addario Multi-Tool - Bridge adjustments
• Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner - Intonation checks
• Feeler gauges - Neck relief measurement

Tip 3: Make Small Adjustments

Incremental changes work best:

• Adjust bridge height in 1/4 turn increments
• Test playability after each adjustment
• Check for buzz on all strings
• Allow time for changes to settle

Tip 4: Test Across the Entire Neck

Don't just test open strings:

• Play every fret on every string
• Test bending and vibrato techniques
• Check chord playing in different positions
• Verify no buzz anywhere on the neck

String Action Measurement: Advanced Techniques

Measuring String Height Accurately

Proper measurement technique:

1. Capo the first fret to eliminate nut height
2. Press string at last fret (22nd or 24th)
3. Measure at 12th fret between string and fret
4. Use consistent pressure when pressing string
5. Record measurements for all six strings

Using a String Height Gauge

How to use a string height gauge:

1. Select appropriate scale (inches or millimeters)
2. Place gauge between string and fret
3. Read measurement at string contact point
4. Record measurement for each string
5. Compare to target measurements for your gauge

Checking for Fret Buzz

Systematic buzz testing:

1. Play each string at every fret
2. Use normal playing pressure (not excessive)
3. Listen for buzzing or dead notes
4. Check both fretted and open strings
5. Test different playing techniques

Electric Guitar Action Height MM: Conversion Chart

Inches to Millimeters Conversion

Common String Heights by Playing Style

Shredding/Metal: 1.2-1.5mm Rock/Blues: 1.5-1.8mm Jazz: 2.0-2.5mm Country: 1.5-1.8mm Classical: 2.0-2.5mm

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the best string action for electric guitar?

Answer: The best string action depends on your playing style and preferences. For most players, 1.5-2.0mm at the 12th fret provides a good balance of playability and tone. Rock and blues players often prefer lower action (1.2-1.8mm), while jazz players typically use higher action (2.0-2.5mm) for better tone and sustain.

2. How do I measure string action on my electric guitar?

Answer: To measure string action, capo the first fret, press the string at the last fret, and measure the distance between the bottom of the string and the top of the 12th fret using a string height gauge. This eliminates nut height variables and gives you an accurate measurement of your action height.

3. Can I have low string action without fret buzz?

Answer: Yes, but it requires proper setup including correct neck relief, level frets, and appropriate string gauge. Light gauge strings (.009-.042) allow for lower action, while heavier strings may require higher action to prevent buzz. A professional setup can achieve very low action with minimal buzz.

4. How often should I adjust my guitar's action?

Answer: Action should be checked every 6-12 months, or whenever you change string gauges. Environmental changes (humidity, temperature) can affect neck relief and action. If you notice buzzing, difficulty playing, or changes in tone, it's time to check and adjust your action.

5. What string gauge should I use for low action?

Answer: Light gauge strings (.009-.042) are best for achieving low action without fret buzz. They require less tension to reach pitch, allowing for lower action while maintaining good tone. However, they may require more frequent tuning and offer less sustain than heavier strings.

6. How does string gauge affect action height?

Answer: Heavier strings require more tension to reach pitch, which can increase neck relief and require higher action to prevent buzz. Lighter strings have less tension, allowing for lower action. When changing string gauges, you'll need to readjust your action and possibly your neck relief.

7. What's the difference between action height and string height?

Answer: Action height and string height are the same thing - they both refer to the distance between the strings and the frets. This measurement affects playability, with lower action being easier to play but potentially causing buzz, and higher action being more difficult to play but offering better tone and sustain.

8. How do I lower the action on my electric guitar?

Answer: To lower action, first check neck relief and adjust if necessary, then lower the bridge height or individual saddle heights. Make small adjustments (1/4 turn at a time), retune, and test for fret buzz. If buzz occurs, raise the action slightly until it stops.

9. What tools do I need to adjust string action?

Answer: Essential tools include a string height gauge for measurements, Allen wrenches for bridge adjustments, a precision tuner for intonation, and feeler gauges for neck relief. A multi-tool like the D'Addario Multi-Tool can handle most basic adjustments.

10. Why does my action change after changing strings?

Answer: Different string gauges have different tensions, which affects neck relief and bridge height requirements. New strings also need time to stretch and settle. Allow 24 hours for strings to stabilize, then readjust your action as needed.

11. What's the standard action height for a Stratocaster?

Answer: The standard Stratocaster action is 1.5mm for the high E string and 2.0mm for the low E string at the 12th fret. This provides a good balance of playability and tone for most players, though you can adjust it based on your playing style and preferences.

12. How do I know if my action is too high or too low?

Answer: Action is too high if it's difficult to press strings down or play fast passages. Action is too low if you experience fret buzz or dead notes. The ideal action allows for comfortable playing without buzz, with the exact height depending on your playing style and string gauge.

13. Can I adjust action without changing strings?

Answer: Yes, you can adjust action without changing strings by adjusting bridge height or saddle heights. However, if you're changing string gauges, you'll need to readjust action and possibly neck relief to accommodate the different tension.

14. What's the best action height for bending strings?

Answer: For easy bending, use light gauge strings (.009-.042) with action height of 1.2-1.5mm at the 12th fret. This combination provides the least resistance for bending while maintaining good tone and avoiding fret buzz.

15. How does action height affect tone?

Answer: Higher action generally provides better tone and sustain because strings have more room to vibrate freely. Lower action can reduce sustain and may cause fret buzz, but it's more comfortable to play. The ideal action balances playability with tone quality.

Conclusion

Mastering string gauge selection and action height adjustment is essential for getting the best performance from your electric guitar. Whether you're seeking low string action for easier playing or need to understand how to adjust string action on electric guitar, the key is finding the right balance between playability and tone.

Remember that string gauge directly affects electric guitar string height, guitar action height, and overall setup requirements. Start with the electric guitar string height chart provided in this guide, then fine-tune based on your playing style and preferences.

With the right tools like a Jim Dunlop String Height Gauge and D'Addario Multi-Tool, you can achieve the perfect action height for electric guitar that suits your playing style. Take your time with adjustments, make small changes, and always test playability across the entire neck.

For more detailed setup guides, visit our Telecaster Setup Guide and Stratocaster Setup Guide for guitar-specific setup instructions.

Related Guides and Resources

Telecaster-Specific Setup

• Telecaster Truss Rod Adjustment - Safe neck relief adjustment techniques
• Telecaster Wiring Diagram Guide - Electronics and pickup wiring
• Best Strings for Telecaster - Complete string recommendations by genre
• Complete Telecaster Guide - Your ultimate Telecaster resource hub

Other Fender Guitar Setup Guides

• Stratocaster Setup Guide - Complete Stratocaster setup process
• Stratocaster Tremolo Setup - Tremolo system configuration
• Jaguar Setup Guide - Offset guitar setup techniques
• Jazzmaster Setup Guide - Jazzmaster-specific setup procedures

String and Setup Resources

• Best Strings for Stratocaster - Stratocaster string recommendations
• Jaguar String Gauge Guide - Jaguar-specific string gauge selection
• Fender Guitar Tuners Guide - Tuning and maintenance tips
• Fender Guitar Finishes - Understanding guitar finishes and care

Explore More Fender Guitars

• Complete Stratocaster Guide - Your ultimate Stratocaster resource
• Complete Jaguar Guide - Your ultimate Jaguar resource
• Complete Jazzmaster Guide - Your ultimate Jazzmaster resource
• Home - Return to our main Fender guitar resource hub

Ready to optimize your guitar's action? Use our string gauge selection guide to find the perfect setup for your playing style and achieve the tone and playability you've been looking for.

Related Posts

Telecaster-Specific Guides

• Ultimate Telecaster Setup Guide - Complete setup process and specifications
• Telecaster Truss Rod Adjustment - Detailed neck relief adjustment techniques
• Telecaster Wiring Diagram Guide - Electronics and pickup wiring
• Best Strings for Telecaster - Complete string recommendations

Other Fender Guitar String Guides

• Jaguar String Gauge Selection Guide - Jaguar-specific string gauge and action setup
• Best Strings for Stratocaster - Stratocaster string recommendations

Other Fender Guitar Setup Guides

• Stratocaster Setup Guide - Complete Stratocaster setup process
• Stratocaster Tremolo Setup - Tremolo system configuration
• Jaguar Setup Guide - Offset guitar setup techniques
• Jazzmaster Setup Guide - Jazzmaster-specific setup procedures

Tags

• Guitar Setup
• String Gauge
• Action Height