In addition to being a private violin teacher and having a degree in music from USC, Alecia started writing music-related articles and product reviews six years ago and has enjoyed this experience greatly. She likes to learn new instruments and write new compositions in her free time.
Marcus has a vast experience in digital audio and sound design. Thanks to his knowledge, he actively helps musicians with technical problems, improving their audio quality and promoting their tracks so that thousands of listeners can enjoy really good music.
Last updated: August 15, 2024
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While it is true that all you need is an instrument and the skill to play it to become a good musician, many people underestimate the importance of accessories. Beginners may find it extremely hard to tune their instruments by ear. Getting the best cello tuner can solve this problem. This piece of equipment is incredibly easy to use, and it ensures that you are on the pitch at all times, which will aid to improve your playing experience.
To make your search easier, we bring you a list of the top-rated cello tuners available on the market. This list of carefully selected items also includes information about what you should look for before making a purchase. The main features include preference pitch, power supply, metronome capability, and the product’s physical characteristics. They are directly responsible for helping you tune your cello correctly. Are you ready to learn more? Let’s go!
"An outstanding option with clip-on design, built-in microphone, and vibration sensor.415Hz-466Hz reference pitch.Tap tempo metronome.Flat and transpose modes."
"Are you looking for something affordable? Check this cello tuner with colorful LCD display.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.Vibration sensor.360° rotation clip."
"For advanced musicians, we recommend this pocket-sized model with built-in mic and A0-C8 range.410Hz-480Hz reference pitch.Metronome with various beats and rhythm patterns.3-year warranty."
"This model is very convenient to use because it has a built-in metronome and a memory backup function.410Hz-480Hz reference pitch.Large backlit display.Auto power-off."
"This cello tuner is incredibly long-lasting. It offers 200 hours of battery life and comes with a 5-year warranty.410Hz-480Hz reference pitch.Slim and lightweight body.Simple design."
"An amazing clip-on cello tuner with a small display, several modes, and wide tuning range.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.3-year guarantee.Extremely lightweight."
"If you want to get a multipurpose tuner, check this option suitable for various instruments.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.5 auto modes.3-year warranty."
"This user-friendly option is quite convenient thanks to the 360-degree rotational design and large buttons.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.Auto-off function.Clip/mic tuning."
"Do you want to practice the sense of rhythm as well? You can try this cello tuner with input for speakers.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.Convenient display and LED indicators.3-year warranty."
"Some might find it more comfortable to use a clip-on tuner with a vertical display such as seen here.430Hz-450Hz reference pitch.Optimized for low frequencies.Swivel design."
This reliable cello tuner by Snark can tune your modern steel-string cello to your desired pitch easily. It operates smoothly with expert precision, as it comes with a reference pitch ranging from 415Hz to 466Hz.
Our favorite thing about this product is that it is not just a clip-on cello tuner, but a versatile tuner as well because it can tune all string-based instruments, such as acoustic guitars, electric guitars and even basses. It also has a tap tempo metronome, which lets you set the rhythm accordingly to your needs.
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A single CR2032 battery powers this tuner, which you can easily find in your nearest hardware store. The dimensions and weight of this product are 3.5 x 1.8 x 1.8 in. and 1.58 oz., respectively, so it is light and portable.
Some extra features you’ll find are transpose modes, built-in microphone, and a vibration sensor, which make your job easier and convenient. The only downside of this cello tuner is that it does not have a warranty.
Have you been tirelessly trying to find the perfect cello tuner at an affordable price tag? Well, the good news is that you do not have to look any further with the ENO MUSIC ET-05SV Tuner. This expert device lets you tune your cello according to your desired pitch.
With a reference pitch of 430Hz to 450Hz, this product enables you to tune your cello in perfect fifths. The best feature of this product is the colored LCD screen, which displays the string number and note, with the key being yellow for flat and red for sharp. Like with any other small-sized tuner, a 1x CR2032 battery powers it.
Its dimensions are 1.26 x 1.8 x 1.77 in., and it weighs just 1.2oz. This tuner’s USP is the 360° rotational clip-on design and A0 (27.5Hz) to C8 (4168Hz) impressive tuning range. This portable and easy-to-use model attaches over the pegbox of the cello and many other instruments, like violins. Extra features include a vibration sensor and battery. The only con is that it doesn’t include a metronome.
Cello tuners are cheap but handy tools because they make your instrument sound better in a matter of seconds. The best thing about KLIQ MetroPitch tuner is that it’s a 3-in-1 model, which is not just a tuner, but also a metronome and a tone generator.
Its tap tempo metronome has a broad range of 30 to 250 BPM with various beats and rhythm patterns. It’s quick and easy to use, with its intuitive JOG Dial Tempo that allows you to adjust it as you want.
This pocket-sized tuner comes with a pouch, making for an amazing 3-in-1 tool that you can carry around easily. With a reference pitch of 410Hz to 480Hz, this versatile device tunes a range from A0 to C8 with several tuning modes.
What makes it great is that it also had pitch calibration and transportation settings. Two AAA batteries power it, which you can easily find. On top of that, it has a built-in mic, low battery indicator, input and output jacks, volume control. This handy device also comes with a three-year warranty.
This model is a bit pricier, but it is reasonable enough, and it will not put a dent in your pocket.
The Korg TM60BK Combo Tuner Metronome is a 2-in-1 device that allows individual as well as simultaneous use of the tuner and metronome function. The metronome function ranges from 30 to 252 BPM and has three tempo settings and fifteen rhythm variations. Unfortunately, it makes only one beeping sound. The reference pitch is a wide 410Hz to 480Hz. Two AAA batteries are required for this cello tuner, and it has twice the battery life of the previous TM-50 model.
The unique selling point of this tool is the large backlit display that allows for improved visibility. Additional features include a memory backup function and an auto power-off function that enhance the value of this product.
This versatile device has a wide C1 to C8 detection range, which makes it suitable for not just cellos but also a variety of other instruments. The dimensions of this product are compact, only measuring 3.3 x 4.8 x 1.1 in. As for the weight, at 3.5oz., it is a little heavier compared to other options.
This cello tuner by Korg is another valuable pick from a market crowded with several alternatives. It stands out for us because of its impressive battery life and range. One basic feature is the adjustable calibration with a reference pitch that ranges from 410Hz to 480Hz. It also has an amazing function that indicates pure major third and minor third ranges.
The wide variety of tuning functions (A0 (27.50Hz) – C8 (4186.01Hz) range) that this cello tuner offers makes it suitable for multiple instruments. It uses 2x CR2 batteries, which makes it a reliable tool with 200-hour battery life. On top of that, it comes with a 5-year warranty.
The wide display offers great visibility and has a needle style meter for indication. The best part of this product is its slim and compact body, with dimensions 3.3 x 1 x 4.3 in. This tuner weighs just 2.36 oz., which allows for easy portability.
The only con is that this singular device does not come with a metronome. Thus, you will have to purchase one separately.
The KLIQ UberTuner is a professional clip-on cello tuner, popular for its wide usage. This tool is suitable not just for tuning cello strings, but guitars, ukuleles, violins, and basses. You also get chromatic tuning modes, a feature that makes it popular among professionals.
The best thing about this tool is that it barely takes any time to tune your instrument, which allows you to save battery and spend more time playing it. You can tune your instrument with perfect accuracy thanks to its advanced microprocessor and highly sensitive Piezo sensor, unlike other older devices.
It is highly accurate because it detects the pitches directly from your instruments’ vibrations. The reference pitch is 430Hz to 450Hz with A0 (27.50Hz) to C8 (4.186Hz) tuning range, and it also has multiple tuning modes!
The bright display screen has three adjustment points that allow you to try various angles and position the tool as you please. The body is extremely lightweight, weighing just 0.3 oz. The clip-on design makes this tuner easy to use. Another quality of this device is its reliability due to the durable construction. You also get a 3-year manufacturer’s guarantee. Sadly, this tuner lacks a metronome.
The Crescendo Zen-Tuner is one of the best clip-on cello tuners on the market. This sturdy device is suitable for tuning a variety of instruments with accurate precision, ranging from cellos to acoustic and electric guitars, basses, violins, and ukuleles.
It features a chromatic mode for all instruments that you tune with it and has fantastic accuracy due to the high sensitivity. The superior construction of this tool makes it a reliable and durable product.
The screen has a bright, colorful display that adds not just to aesthetics, but also allows better visibility. It is a fast tuning device, which takes mere minutes to get everything done. Next, the reference pitch has a narrow range from 430Hz to 450Hz. A CR2032 battery, included in the package, powers this tuner. The dimensions and weight are 6 x 3 x 2.2 in. and 3.2 oz., respectively. The vibration sensor allows tuning anywhere, even in noisy places.
Lastly, the product boasts 360° rotation, automatic shut-off, which helps in saving battery, a sturdy clamp that helps with accuracy, and 5 auto modes.
The Groovy Center Real Tuner LA-1is a wonderful pick thanks to the modern clip-on design that is highly popular among users. The most liked feature of this product is the stylish appearance, with a colorful and wide display screen that is easy to read.
With a reference pitch of 430Hz to 450Hz, this product allows great precision and accuracy. It is a high-quality pick, with a great sensitivity to pitch with the clip-on vibration sensors. It uses a CR2032 battery, and its dimensions and weight are 3.15 x 2.17 x 3.15 in. and 1.12 oz.
The design is impressive because it is built for ease of use, with no hidden buttons and 360-degree rotation. Thus, it is great for beginners as well as professionals because it is very convenient and helps to save a lot of time. It has an amazing tuning range of E0 (41.20Hz) – B7 (3951Hz). Apart from that, you’ll come across an auto-off function to save battery and mic tuning, which makes this product a unique pick.
You know it is a trustworthy product because it has a 3-year warranty. The only con is that it comes without a metronome.
This cello tuner by Neuma offers many marvelous features, and hence it is on our list of the best cello tuners. First, it has a reference pitch of 430Hz to 450Hz and A0-C8 tuning detection range, which covers all your instrument tuning needs.
It has a great metronome that allows a wide usage, with 30 to 250 BPM and 8 rhythms, which makes it worth its weight of 4.8oz. While it seems quite simple, it comes with an adjustable volume, mic mode, an input for speakers, and a folding kickstand.
Next, its wide LED screen is clear and easily readable. This 3-in-1 tool is a tuner, metronome, and a tone generator as well. The compact body of this tuner is compatible with guitars, basses, violins, and ukuleles. The dimensions are 4.4 x 2.8 x 1.7 in., and it requires 2x AAA batteries to power it. Unfortunately, its instructions are not clear, and there is no support webpage.
The D’Addario Eclipse Tuner is one of our favorite picks on this list because the modern clip-on design allows for easy, quick, and accurate tuning. The reference pitch of 430Hz to 450Hz makes it perfect for cellos. Next, the power supply comes from a 1x CR2032 battery. The USP of this tool is the swivel action design that helps it rotate as you desire, giving you the perfect viewing angle.
This small device has dimensions of 5.6 x 3.6 x 1 in. and is a lightweight, travel-friendly tuner, weighing only 0.81 oz. Also, the full-color vertical display gives it a modern look and is easy on the eyes. This tuner is built to pick on low frequencies, making it accurate and sensitive. The auto power-off function switches the tuner off when not in use, saving the battery.
The only downside of this wonderful tuner is that it doesn’t have a metronome, so you’ll need to buy a one separately to cater to your needs.
What are its best features?
Optimized for low frequencies
Swivel design
Auto power-off
Lightweight
What could be improved?
No metronome
Things to Consider
Not only beginners need a cello tuner to find the perfect setting to enhance their music. Tuning an instrument has nothing to do with a musician’s experience because every musician needs a well-tuned instrument to achieve the ideal sound.
To make your musical experience a little better, we will help you find the best cello tuner in this guide. With some practice and patience, you will be able to tune your instrument in a matter of seconds!
How to pick the best cello tuner?
When picking out a cello tuner, you need to answer a few questions, which then help you determine your exact requirements. Do you need a metronome? What type of tuner will suit you better? How large should it be, and what advanced features do you expect to get?
We are here to guide you and help you pick the best cello tuner by breaking down the different features and qualities and their importance. To get the best cello tuner, you need to consider the reference pitch, tuning range, metronome function, and power supply.
Reference pitch
The reference pitch of a cello tuner acts as a guide to set your cello to a certain tone, and it is measured in Hz.
The greater the range of a reference pitch, the wider variety of instruments you can tune with it.
This may include cellos, guitars, violins, and other string instruments because they all require different settings.
For example, the Crescendo ZenTuner is a great versatile model that can be used for multiple instruments.
Tuning range
A cello has four strings, and you have to tune each string in a perfect succession of fifths. You have to tune the strings, i.e., C, D, G, and A, in ascending order, depending on each string’s thickness, whereby C is the lowest pitch, and A is the highest.
Using a tuner is important so that you don’t have to set the notes by ear, which could lead to the pitch being off to a certain extent. You have to tune the strings from an open position. Beginners especially need to use a tuner, though even expert cellists also use this tool from time to time. For instance, the Snark ST-2 Multi-Instrument Chromatic Tuner can be a convenient option for both beginners and professionals.
Accuracy
The accuracy of a cello tuner depends on its sensitivity to the pitch of the sound created by a cello string. Standard cello tuners pick onto the pitch when played in a silent room and prove to be relatively accurate.
However, in a noisy environment, standard tuners tend to be inaccurate because of additional noise from sources other than the instrument. Clip-on tuners, including the KLIQ UberTuner, are more accurate because they pick onto the vibrations of the strings to determine the pitch and tune your instrument with great accuracy, even in noisy places.
Many modern tuners with advanced technology and vibration sensors offer exceptional sensitivity to pitch, and therefore, are very effective.
Metronome
A metronome is a device that makes a clicking sound at regular intervals. This is useful when you want to practice a sense of rhythm, and many tuners come with this function.
The intervals are measured with beats per minute or BPM. The BPM gives you a clear sense of time and tempo, and you can use it to play with almost any instrument.
Cello tuners that come with a metronome, including the KLIQ MetroPitch Metronome Tuner for All Instruments, are more efficient because they offer the best of two worlds. Models that lack a metronome still work just as good. However, you may have to buy a metronome separately in that case for tempo reference.
Design
Cello tuners come in two common designs, namely standard and clip-on. A standard cello tuner picks the sound of the instrument with a microphone.
Clip-on tuners are popular among musicians because they are small and compact. Thus, they are easy to carry from gig to gig. They are also user-friendly since all you have to do is to attach them to your instrument. You can also adjust the angle to your liking.
Clip-on cello tuners work accurately even in noisy environments because they pick on to the vibrations of your instrument’s strings for tuning instead of the sound. You can use them anytime and anywhere, making them a great tool for emergency tuning before a performance or at a concert.
Modes
The different modes for tuning refer to the different variations in. The best tuners have a wide range, and they allow you to only experiment with different modes.
The more settings a tuner has, the more benefits you get when using it. A tuner can have modes for tuning cellos as well as modes suitable for other instruments like a guitar, ukulele, and violin. You can select a tuner based on the instruments that you play and need to tune. For example, the KLIQ MetroPitch Metronome Tuner for All Instruments is an advanced option with various settings.
Power supply
Most cello tuners, especially the ones from our list, use either 2x AAA cells or a single CR2032 battery. The power consumption of cello tuners is low, so these batteries last a while.
Some cello tuners have low battery indicators that let you know that the charge is running low. This feature saves you from the frustration of being caught off guard with a low battery on an important day.
Several models, including the Korg TM60BK Combo Tuner Metronome, have an auto power-off that turns the device off when it’s not in use. This feature is priceless because it saves battery charge.
Dimensions and weight
You have to keep in mind the dimensions and weight of a tuner when considering a unit’s portability. Smaller dimensions make for a device that you can carry in your pocket easily.
Lightweight models, such as the Korg CA-2 Chromatic Tuner, are also popular among users because the weight of instruments and their accessories like stands and cases make for heavy luggage. A heavy tuner will just add to that burden.
Plus, lightweight and portable cello tuners are more convenient to use. Still, even the heaviest cello tuners aren’t that large, and you will not have a problem carrying them around.
What else can be important?
Some additional features make cello tuners stand out. The products on our list feature amazing qualities, including volume adjustment, to set your cello to the desired volume.
Headphones and mic inputs allow you to get the right tempo and pitch easily. Some products come with a buyer’s warranty, which can span as long as 5 years, which gives extra protection. This is the case with the Korg CA-2 Chromatic Tuner, and this feature helps in developing trust and saves you the money of getting a new tuner in case the one you bought is faulty. The warranty will allow you to get your money back or to replace the tuner if you don’t enjoy its performance.
Prices
While musical instruments and their accessories can be somewhat pricey, cello tuners are cheap and extremely useful tools. Some tuners are cheaper than others, and this depends on their types and extra features, as well as other characteristics like whether they have a metronome.
The cheapest one on our list is the ENO MUSIC ET-05SV Tuner, which is available for as low as $10. Other options range within the bracket of $10 to $29. Our most expensive pick is the KLIQ MetroPitch Metronome Tuner for All Instruments, which costs $25. Our cheapest pick lacks functions, such as a metronome and has no warranty, and the most expensive premium pick has a pocket-sized design, with impressive extra features, such as a built-in mic and a low battery indicator.
Tuning a cello is a tricky skill to master but not difficult once you get the hang of it. If you can learn how to play the cello, tuning one cannot be just as challenging. You need to tune the four cello strings in perfect fifths. A rule of thumb is to never remove all strings at once but instead do them one by one in order.
Start with the A string and know that adjusting one string can affect the pitch of the others. Going from high to low strings is advisable. For an off-pitch string, start by turning the peg towards you slightly and then in the other direction slowly to bring it up to pitch. The tuner indicates the direction you need to twist the pegs according to the pitch.
In a cello with an auto power-off feature, the batteries last as long as 200 hours. You need to turn off models that lack a battery-saving function after use, or you might have to replace the battery frequently. A cello tuner does not require a huge power supply but still uses up the battery quickly. It is wise to keep spare batteries with you to avoid running out of charge.
The right answer to this question would be whenever your cello needs tuning. The cello can be out of tune after playing because you move the strings. In other words, the frequency of tuning depends on the frequency of playing the instrument. Now, the way to go about it is to tune your cello every time before using it to make sure your practice or performance is up to mark.
Our Verdict
After reading this detailed guide, we are sure that you understand the importance of getting a cello tuner. We carefully picked the best items for you, sorting and sifting through various categories of cello tuners to find a mix of all the best attributes
Our winner is the Snark ST-2 Multi-Instrument Chromatic Tuner because this all-in-1 tool that is perfect for all string instruments. It also offers fantastic features and has a built-in microphone and vibration sensor.
The ENO MUSIC ET-05SV Tuner is our second choice because of the value it provides for its price. It is a compact solution with a 360-degree swivel clip.
Finally, we love the KLIQ MetroPitch Metronome Tuner for All Instruments because of the extra goodness it offers. This product boasts a pocket-size design, built-in mic, and a low battery indicator that make it one of the best cello tuners on this list.
