How to use the online tuner
- Press Start tuner and allow microphone access when your browser asks.
- Play a single note and let it ring. The big letter shows the nearest note; the needle and the number show how far off you are in cents (1/100 of a semitone).
- Tighten the string if the needle is left of centre (flat) and loosen it if it's right (sharp). Within ±5 cents the display turns green.
- For guided string-by-string tuning, pick your instrument above — each instrument tuner knows its strings and has reference notes to tune by ear.
What is a chromatic tuner?
A chromatic tuner recognises all twelve notes of the scale in every octave, rather than only an instrument's open strings. That makes it right for instruments without a fixed tuning, for checking individual frets or notes, and for singers. Instrument tuners such as the violin tuner or ukulele tuner add the expected notes for each string so you always know which way to turn.
Changing the reference pitch
Modern concert pitch is A4 = 440 Hz. Many orchestras tune a little higher (441–443 Hz) and baroque ensembles often use A = 415 Hz. Change the Reference setting and every note and string target moves with it. Your choice is remembered on this device.
FAQ
Is this online tuner accurate?
It measures pitch to within about one cent on a clear, steady note, which is finer than most people can hear. Accuracy depends on a clean signal: play one note at a time, close to the microphone, in a quiet room.
Does the tuner record or upload my audio?
No. The sound from your microphone is analysed in your browser, on your device, and is never recorded, stored or sent anywhere.
Why does the tuner say I need to allow the microphone?
Browsers only let a website hear your microphone after you give permission. If you blocked it by accident, use the padlock or site settings icon in the address bar to allow it, then press Start again.
Does it work on iPhone and Android?
Yes, in current versions of Safari, Chrome, Firefox and Edge on phones, tablets and computers.
What does "cents" mean?
A cent is one hundredth of a semitone. Being within about 5 cents of the target is in tune for most practical purposes; the display turns green there.