How Often Do Electric Guitar Strings Break?

Written by David Sandy in Electric Guitar

acoustic guitar | Sandy Music Lab

It’s every guitarist’s pet peeve whenever a string snaps and breaks. Whether it happens while tuning the guitar, playing a song, or during practice hours, a broken string forces you to stop what you’re doing to restring your guitar. It also makes you want to do everything in your power to mitigate the prospect of strings breaking again.

As a rough estimate, for an average player who practices regularly but not excessively, a set of electric guitar strings can last anywhere from one to three months.

Electric guitar strings break every other week if they’re not durable and made of low quality, forcing regular string changes. Get high-quality strings to ensure they don’t break easily, especially while you’re performing. If your strings are old or heavily used, change them before they break.

Taking on each of these factors is the best way to ensure that your guitar strings remain durable for as long as possible and will prevent the strings from snapping on you at the worst possible times.

If you want to find out what my recommended guitar gear is, then here is what I recommend on Amazon:

Table Of Contents show

How Often Do Electric Guitar Strings Break?

The frequency with which electric guitar strings break can vary depending on several factors, including the quality of the strings, how often the guitar is played, the playing style, and how well the guitar is maintained. Here are some general considerations:

  1. String quality: High-quality strings from reputable brands tend to be more durable and less prone to breaking than cheap, low-quality ones.
  2. Playing frequency: If you play your electric guitar regularly, the strings will naturally wear out over time. Frequent playing can lead to more frequent string replacements.
  3. Playing style: Aggressive playing techniques, such as heavy picking or bending strings vigorously, can put more stress on the strings, increasing the likelihood of breakage.
  4. Guitar maintenance: Properly maintaining your guitar, such as regular cleaning, adjusting the string height (action), and keeping the frets in good condition, can reduce the chances of strings breaking prematurely.
  5. Environmental factors: Humidity and temperature can affect the lifespan of guitar strings. Extreme conditions, such as high humidity or rapid temperature changes, can cause strings to deteriorate faster.

As a general guideline, most guitar players find that strings need replacement every few weeks to several months, depending on the factors mentioned above. However, some players might experience string breakage more frequently, especially if they play with a very heavy-handed technique or use specific string gauges that are more susceptible to breaking.

To minimize the chances of string breakage, it’s essential to keep your guitar well-maintained, choose quality strings that suit your playing style, and play with a technique that is not overly aggressive. Additionally, having spare strings on hand and learning to restring your guitar can be helpful to avoid any interruptions during your playing sessions.

How long do electric guitar strings last?

The lifespan of electric guitar strings can vary significantly depending on several factors. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Playing frequency: If you play your electric guitar regularly, the strings will wear out faster. Professional musicians or avid players might need to change strings every few weeks.
  2. Playing style: Aggressive playing techniques, like heavy picking or frequent bending, can cause strings to wear out more quickly.
  3. String quality: Higher-quality strings from reputable brands generally last longer than cheaper ones.
  4. String gauge: Thicker strings tend to last longer than thinner ones, but they might not suit everyone’s playing style or preference.
  5. Environmental factors: Humidity, temperature, and exposure to sweat and oils from your hands can affect the lifespan of guitar strings.

As a rough estimate, for an average player who practices regularly but not excessively, a set of electric guitar strings can last anywhere from one to three months. However, some players may find that their strings retain good tone for longer or need replacement more frequently based on the factors mentioned above.

Keep in mind that even if your strings still appear to be in decent condition, they may lose their bright and crisp tone over time. Some guitarists prefer to change strings more often to maintain a consistent and vibrant sound.

Ultimately, the decision to change strings depends on your preferences and playing needs. Some players change their strings proactively before a performance or recording session, while others prefer to wait until a string breaks or their tone deteriorates significantly. It’s essential to experiment with different string brands, gauges, and maintenance routines to find what works best for you and your playing style.

Is it common for guitar strings to break?

Guitar strings do break from time to time, but it is not extremely common under normal circumstances. The frequency of string breakage can vary based on several factors, including the quality of the strings, the playing style, and the guitar’s maintenance.

Here are some key points to consider:

  1. String quality: Higher-quality strings from reputable brands are generally more durable and less prone to breakage. Cheaper strings may have a higher chance of breaking prematurely.
  2. Playing style: Aggressive playing techniques, such as heavy bending, intense strumming, or sharp picking, can put more stress on the strings and increase the likelihood of breakage.
  3. String age: Over time, even without breaking, guitar strings can lose their brightness and tonal quality. Some players choose to replace strings regularly before they break, especially before important performances or recording sessions.
  4. Guitar maintenance: Properly maintaining your guitar, including cleaning, adjusting the action, and keeping the frets in good condition, can help reduce the risk of strings breaking.
  5. String gauge: Thicker strings tend to be more robust and less prone to breakage compared to thinner strings. However, the gauge you choose should also match your playing style and preference.

Why do electric guitar strings keep breaking?

Electric guitar strings can break for several reasons. Understanding these common causes can help you prevent excessive string breakage and prolong the life of your strings:

  1. Wear and Tear: Over time, strings naturally wear out due to constant tension, friction against the frets, and contact with your fingers. This wear weakens the metal, making the strings more susceptible to breakage.
  2. Playing Style: Aggressive playing techniques, such as heavy bending, intense vibrato, or forceful picking, put extra stress on the strings. If you frequently use these techniques, your strings are more likely to break prematurely.
  3. String Quality: Low-quality or old strings are more prone to breakage. Investing in higher-quality strings from reputable brands can reduce the chances of unexpected breaks.
  4. String Age: Even without breaking, guitar strings lose their tonal quality and brightness over time. If you keep using old strings, they may be more prone to breaking due to accumulated wear.
  5. String Gauge: Different string gauges have varying levels of tension. Using a gauge that doesn’t match your playing style or your guitar’s setup may lead to more frequent breakage.
  6. Nut and Bridge Issues: A poorly cut or sharp nut or bridge saddle can cause excessive friction, leading to string breakage at those contact points.
  7. Fret Issues: Sharp or poorly finished fret edges can abrade the strings, contributing to breakage.
  8. Environmental Factors: High humidity can cause strings to corrode and weaken over time, increasing the likelihood of breaks. Extreme temperature changes can also stress the strings and affect their integrity.
  9. String Installation: Incorrectly winding the strings around the tuning pegs or over-tightening them can cause weak spots and lead to breaks.
  10. Guitar Maintenance: Neglecting regular guitar maintenance, such as cleaning, lubricating the nut, and adjusting the action, can contribute to premature string breakage.

To reduce the frequency of string breakage, consider the following tips:

  • Use high-quality strings from reputable brands.
  • Match the string gauge to your playing style and guitar setup.
  • Maintain your guitar properly, ensuring the nut and bridge are in good condition.
  • Avoid excessive force during bending and vibrato.
  • Replace strings regularly, especially before important performances or recording sessions.
  • Keep your guitar in a stable environment with moderate humidity.

By understanding these potential causes and taking proper care of your guitar and strings, you can minimize the likelihood of strings breaking and enjoy longer-lasting, reliable performance.

How long does it take to break in electric guitar strings?

Breaking in electric guitar strings refers to the process of playing the strings until they settle into their optimal tone and stability. This period can vary depending on factors such as the string material, playing style, and personal preferences. Here are some general guidelines:

  1. Initial Stretching: When you first put on a new set of strings, they will undergo some initial stretching. This process can take a few hours of playing, frequent retuning, and stretching the strings manually by gently pulling on them.
  2. Tone Settling: After the initial stretching, the strings will continue to settle, and their tone will stabilize. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days of regular playing.
  3. Stability: Once the strings have settled, they should maintain their tuning stability and tonal quality for an extended period. This period can last for several weeks to a few months, depending on factors like playing frequency, string quality, and environmental conditions.

It’s important to note that some guitarists prefer the bright and lively tone of brand new strings, while others enjoy the warmer and mellower sound that comes after the strings have been played for a while. The breaking-in process can vary from person to person, so there’s no strict timeline for how long it will take.

During the breaking-in period, it’s common for the strings to require more frequent tuning, as they are still settling into their final tension and stability. After this period, the strings should hold their tuning better.

Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in how long you might choose to keep a set of strings on your guitar. Some players prefer to change strings frequently to maintain consistent tone and playability, while others may keep strings on for an extended period, embracing the mellower sound that develops over time.

Ultimately, the best approach is to play your guitar regularly, enjoy the process of breaking in the strings, and replace them when you feel their tone and playability no longer meet your preferences or playing needs.

How Durable Are Guitar Strings? 

Before delving into all the things that can increase the chances of your guitar strings breaking, let’s look at the durability of the guitar string itself. Some strings on electric guitars seem like they can be played forever, while other times, it seems as though they break every other week (here’s how to play guitar cleaner).  

Guitar strings are durable on their own. Whenever they start to show their age, they typically show it by not being as responsive to tuning and taking longer to get into tune. Still, even very old guitar strings won’t often break on their own unless their environment doesn’t support them.

In some cases, your guitar strings can become tarnished, where a thin layer of gunk gets onto them and dulls out the guitar’s sound, but that doesn’t really impact the durability of the strings. Plus, you can just take a cloth and wipe it off without much trouble or effort.

Guitar strings only ‘go bad’ whenever they don’t sound good and refuse to get in tune (here’s how to keep guitar strings from slipping on tuning pegs). If you aren’t following a strict schedule on when to change your strings, then this is a signal that you’ll need to change them as soon as possible, and then get yourself on some type of string changing schedule. 

Your Environment Influences the Durability of Your Strings

Humidity plays a significant role in the durability of your strings. For example, the wood in your guitar will expand or contract based on how much water is in the air. When this happens, the tension on the guitar string will increase because the expanded wood is pulling on it.

So if you play your guitar in a new environment with a new humidity level, your strings will snap a bit more. To counter this issue, you can place items in your guitar case that absorb excess moisture, keep your guitar in a dry environment, and remove the strings before changing environments.

Doing this won’t prevent snapping strings, but it’ll drastically lower the chances of the humidity of your environment being the culprit for excessive string snapping. 

Human Error Makes Guitar Strings Break Quicker

So if your guitar strings don’t break on their own without extenuating circumstances, then most of the breaking comes from human error! Guitar strings often break due to these circumstances.

The first mistake, and the easiest mistake to make when working with your guitar, is excessive tuning. Yes, you should tune your guitar regularly, but some people tune and retune their guitar every day. When this happens, and you start twisting and winding the strings, tension is added.

Imagine it like you’re pulling a rubber band back because eventually, the rubber band will break. It’s the same with your strings. So while you want to keep your guitar in tune and make sure that it sounds great, maybe leave the serious tuning for the shows and performances and play slightly out of tune when you’re playing at home.

Look at Where the Strings Are Breaking

Guitar strings often don’t just break on a whim, and by analyzing where your strings are breaking, you can look at what could be causing them. Sometimes the frets of your guitar, the nut of the guitar, or even the bridge stop being as smooth as it was when you first pulled the guitar out of the box.  

These rougher edges can dig into your guitar string whenever you play guitar and eventually can cut through enough of the string where it snaps (Question: Can a Guitar String Snap and Hurt You?). If you notice that your electric guitar strings are snapping at specific points, you might need to inspect that area of your guitar for some problems.

If sharp edges cause your string breaking woes, make sure to clean the affected area in question and then inspect how sharp it is. Often a raised ‘bump’ or ‘edge’ is the reason why the guitar string snaps, and you’ll need to file it down (Relevant article: how to prevent guitar strings from rusting). It’s often done by removing the strings and using sandpaper or a small file to file the area down and make it smooth again.

Watch Out When Bending Strings

Bending strings can be an excellent way to add some ‘oomph’ to whatever song you’re playing. It also causes you to bend strings, pushing a string up or down on the fretboard to improve the pitch. While it’s an exciting technique, not bending the right way can cause more pressure to pull on the string and cause your strings to break.

Most of the time, the B and E strings, the two strings that are the lowest on the guitar and also are the thinnest strings on an electric guitar, are the ones that break the most from bending. If you’ve learned how to bend your guitar strings and are still breaking (here are some reasons why guitar strings are hard to bend), you might want to switch to thicker strings for those two culprits.

Change Out Your Pick

Finally, the last cause of guitar strings losing their durability is whenever you play with too heavy a guitar pick. Guitar picks can be very helpful when playing, but only if you use the right ones.

Heavier picks allow you to get a bit more out of the string, but they also put more pressure on it. If your pick is sharp, it digs into the string just like a sharp fret edge would, which will also cause breakage. Heavier picks can dig little rivets into the string as well, causing weak points that all but guarantee a snap at some point in time for you.

Sadly, picks are a matter of preference for most guitar players. If you find yourself using a heavier guitar pick and unable to switch to a lighter one due to comfort or a lack of the same sound, that’s perfectly fine. Just know that you’ll need to change your strings more often with a heavier pick.

When Should You Change Strings To Ensure They Don’t Break?

If you want to change your strings to keep them from being worn down, then there are a few questions you need to ask yourself. How long are you playing, or when are you playing? Also, ask yourself how much you care about learning the guitar.

You should change strings every 90 days or three months if you only play a few times a week and have an hour or two sessions. Generally, the more you play, the more you’ll need to change your guitar strings.

If you’re playing every day for 3 to 5 hours, you’ll need to keep a closer eye on your strings. Doing maintenance like wiping your strings down after every session and ensuring that they aren’t tuned too tightly will extend the time it takes for them to break. 

Still, changing your strings about once a month is pretty standard for daily players. Now, if you’re a professional guitarist who plays for several hours and does shows every week, changing your strings should be done weekly to make up for the wear and tear on your strings (Related: do guitarists read sheet music). 

The time you spend playing will directly affect how long you can go without changing your strings. If you’re playing a few times a month or only playing for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, then you can go even longer without changing your strings. These rules aren’t set in stone, but they’re helpful guidelines if you don’t want your strings to break.

Best Electric Guitar Strings

To avoid changing your strings too often, you should buy guitar strings from good brands.  High-quality strings are more expensive than average ones, but they’ll be worth spending on,  especially if they can save you time and the hassle of having to change your strings too frequently.

The best electric guitar strings (available on Amazon.com) are:

They’re durable and offer good sounds. The Ernie ball Slinky electric guitar strings, for example, are nickel-plated strings that sound good and are hard-wearing.

Check out my more in-depth post on the Best Electric Guitar Strings here.

FAQs related to How Often Do Electric Guitar Strings Break

Do electric guitar strings break easily?

Electric guitar strings can break relatively easily, especially if they are old, worn out, or subjected to excessive tension. Factors such as aggressive playing style, heavy bending, improper installation, and sharp edges on the guitar’s hardware can also contribute to string breakage. Regularly changing strings and maintaining your guitar can help reduce the likelihood of strings breaking.

Is it OK to leave my electric guitar plugged in?

Leaving your electric guitar plugged in for short periods, like during breaks between playing sessions, is generally fine. However, it’s not recommended to leave it plugged in for an extended period when not in use, as it can drain the battery of active electronics (if your guitar has them) or potentially cause other issues. Unplugging your guitar when not in use will help preserve the battery and prevent any unnecessary strain on the electronics.

How often do pro guitarists change strings?

Professional guitarists often change their strings frequently, sometimes before every performance or recording session. The frequency of string changes depends on the guitarist’s playing style, the type of strings used, and personal preference. Some guitarists prefer the bright and crisp tone of new strings, while others may play until the strings lose their tonal quality or break.

How much does it cost to replace an electric guitar string?

The cost of replacing an electric guitar string can vary depending on the brand and type of strings you choose. On average, a single electric guitar string can cost between $1 to $3. However, purchasing full sets of strings can be more cost-effective compared to buying individual strings. Additionally, premium or specialized strings may cost more than standard ones.

Which guitar string breaks the most?

Among the standard six strings of an electric guitar, the high E string (the thinnest string) is more prone to breaking. Its thin gauge makes it susceptible to damage from aggressive playing, bending, and wear over time. However, all strings can break if they are old, worn out, or subjected to excessive tension or stress.

Do guitar strings go bad without playing?

Yes, guitar strings can degrade and go bad over time, even without playing. Exposure to air, humidity, and sweat from your hands can cause corrosion and loss of tone in the strings. Unplayed strings on a guitar that is left unused for an extended period can suffer from this deterioration. Regularly playing the guitar and cleaning the strings after each session can help prolong their lifespan.

Why do my strings break so easily?

Several factors can contribute to strings breaking easily, including:

  1. Old or worn-out strings: Over time, strings lose their elasticity and become more susceptible to breaking.
  2. Aggressive playing: Excessive bending, hard picking, or heavy strumming can put extra stress on the strings.
  3. Sharp edges: Burrs or rough spots on the guitar’s hardware can weaken and damage the strings.
  4. Poor string winding: Improperly wound strings around the tuning pegs can cause weak points and eventual breakage.

Are electric guitar strings harder to play?

The difficulty of playing electric guitar strings is subjective and depends on the individual’s playing style, finger strength, and the type of strings used. Electric guitar strings are generally lighter and have lower tension compared to acoustic guitar strings, which can make them feel easier to play for some players. However, factors like string gauge, action height, and setup also influence the overall playability of an electric guitar.

When should I replace my electric guitar strings?

There is no set rule for when to replace electric guitar strings, as it varies based on how frequently you play, your playing style, and the strings’ condition. Signs that indicate it’s time to change your strings include a loss of brightness in tone, visible signs of corrosion or discoloration, frequent tuning issues, and string breakage. Many guitarists replace their strings every few weeks or after several hours of playing to maintain optimal tone and playability.

How do I know when to replace my electric guitar strings?

You can tell it’s time to replace your electric guitar strings if you notice the following:

  1. Dull or dead sound: Strings lose their brightness and sustain over time, leading to a lackluster tone.
  2. Rust or discoloration: Corrosion and dirt buildup on the strings can affect their playability and tone.
  3. Difficulty holding tune: Old strings may have trouble staying in tune, requiring frequent adjustments.
  4. Visible wear: Worn-out or damaged strings may have flat spots, fraying, or visible signs of wear.

How much does it cost to restring a guitar?

The cost of restringing a guitar can vary depending on whether you do it yourself or have it done at a guitar shop. If you restring the guitar yourself, the price will be the cost of a new set of strings, which can range from $5 to $20, depending on the brand and type. If you take your guitar to a shop for restringing, you may incur additional labor costs, which can vary depending on the shop’s rates.

Which electric strings last longest?

Coated or treated electric guitar strings tend to last longer than uncoated strings. These coatings protect the strings from corrosion caused by sweat and other environmental factors, extending their lifespan. Brands like Elixir, D’Addario EXP, and Ernie Ball Paradigm are known for producing long-lasting coated electric guitar strings. However, keep in mind that coated strings may have a slightly different feel and tone compared to traditional uncoated strings.

Are electric guitar strings expensive?

The cost of electric guitar strings can vary depending on the brand, type, and where you purchase them. In general, standard sets of electric guitar strings are relatively affordable and can range from $5 to $20. Premium and specialized strings, such as coated or high-quality alloys, may cost more. While they are not overly expensive, regular replacement can add up, especially for professional musicians who change strings frequently.

How do I know if my guitar strings are bad?

You can tell if your guitar strings are bad or need replacement if you notice the following:

  1. Dull or dead sound: Strings that have lost their brightness and sustain can sound lackluster.
  2. Visual wear: Worn-out strings may have flat spots, fraying, discoloration, or visible signs of corrosion.
  3. Difficulty staying in tune: Old strings may have trouble holding their pitch, requiring frequent tuning adjustments.
  4. Rough texture: Your fingers might feel the roughness of corroded strings, affecting playability.

How durable are guitar strings?

Guitar strings are generally durable and designed to withstand the tension and stress of regular playing. However, they are not indestructible. Factors such as playing style, frequency of use, and exposure to environmental conditions can impact their lifespan. Regular maintenance, proper storage, and careful playing can help prolong the durability of guitar strings.

Do electric guitar strings hurt less?

Electric guitar strings, especially those with lighter gauges, can feel less painful on the fingers compared to heavy-gauge acoustic guitar strings. The lower tension and thinner strings on electric guitars require less finger pressure, which can make playing more comfortable, especially for beginners or players with sensitive fingers. However, individual pain tolerance and finger calluses also play a role in how comfortable playing the guitar feels.

Conclusion of How Often Do Electric Guitar Strings Break

There isn’t much of a definitive answer for how often a guitar string breaks. Instead, it’s reliant on your playing habits, the environment the guitar is in, the durability of the strings, and the durability of the guitar itself. Still, once you’ve eliminated factors that you can control, you’ll get an idea of when your guitar strings break and how often (Related article: do classical guitars have all nylon strings).

Then just restring your guitar, keep it maintained, and don’t let one broken string stop you from continuing to play!

If you want to find out what my recommended guitar gear is, then here is what I recommend on Amazon:

Related Posts:

David Sandy

Hey there! My name is David Sandy and I'm the founder of Sandy Music Lab. I've been playing guitar for several years now and created this site to be able to share and explore music with others.
Check out my recommended guitar gear!
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16
"because, if you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For with the heart one believes and is justified, and with the mouth one confesses and is saved." Romans 10:9-10

Recent Posts