Coated and Uncoated Strings: What are their differences?

Views：829 Time：2022-09-07Writer：Alice

Strings are an indispensable part of guitar performance. Choosing high-quality strings with a long life can enhance the effect of playing. In addition, it can reduce the probability of damage and saves replacement time.

Coated or uncoated is an important aspect to consider when choosing a set of strings. Polymer coatings can protect the strings from oxidation and corrosion from dust, oil, debris, dirt, moisture, or sweat. Coated strings, on the other hand, are softer, thicker, more expensive, and durable in the same gauge.

In this article, we will introduce the differences between coated and uncoated strings, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Follow up and keep reading!

What Are Guitar Strings Coated With?

The coating is applied to the core or coated wire. In general, the polymer coated on many guitar strings is Teflon PFT. On the other hand, nano-polishing coatings and multi-layer nano-coatings are also popular choices in the market now.

Major Differences between Coated and Uncoated Strings

● Sound

Coated strings produce a different sound than uncoated strings. Coated strings sound less bright than uncoated strings because coated strings are heavier with polymer layers. In addition, the fundamental frequency of coated strings is lower than uncoated strings. The vibrato played by coated strings does not sound as good as uncoated strings. Therefore, considering the above factors, the sound quality of coated strings is slightly worse than that of uncoated strings.

● Duration

Sweat and grease of the fingertips easily penetrate the cracks in guitar strings. As a result, they will corrode and contaminate the strings, causing the strings to be out of tune. Fortunately, the coating can protect the strings from dust and sweat. Therefore, coated strings have longer lifespans and are more corrosion-resistant than uncoated strings. Typically, coated strings can last 3 to 4 times longer than uncoated strings.

● Playing Experience

With regard to the playing experience, the choice of coated or uncoated strings varies from person to person. For example, coated strings are softer and smoother, eliminating finger noise. However, the polymer layer acts as a protective film with a non-stick surface, adding thickness to the strings. Therefore, coated strings do not feel as good in the grip as uncoated strings. So some players are not used to playing with coated strings.

● Price

Coated strings are more expensive than uncoated strings. For example, the average price of a pack of coated strings is double that of regular uncoated guitar strings. However, coated strings last three to four times longer than uncoated guitar strings. Therefore, comparing them over the long term, coated strings are more cost-effective than uncoated strings.

People Suitable for Coated Strings:

● People with sweaty hands and high acidity of sweat

● People who often perform in high-temperature outdoor environments

● Traveling musicians who avoid changing strings

● People who pursue a longer lifespan of strings

People Suitable for Uncoated Strings:

● People who pursue the ultimate sound quality

● People who prefer light guitar strings

● People who pursue good vibrato effects

● People who don't mind changing strings

Why Choose Alice String for Your Business

Established in 1999, Alice Strings is a professional and reputable manufacturer of musical instruments, strings, and accessories. The company has constructed five modern workshops with an area of over 30,000 square meters and twelve expert production lines.

Alice Strings provide more than 2,000 kinds of products, including classical guitar strings, acoustic guitar strings, electric guitar strings, acoustic bass strings, and other musical instrument accessories. To satisfy the interests of music lovers, Alice Strings offers various types of strings, such as coated and uncoated strings. Multi-layer nano coating, nano polished coating, anti-rust coating, and other coatings are available in coated strings.

If you are looking for a professional supplier. Contact us!