Open tunings make the open strings ring a full chord. Strum without pressing any strings and you hear the chord. Lay a finger or a slide across any fret to play a higher chord. Here they all are, with notes and a tuner.
In an open tuning, the six open strings play one chord. Open G (D G D G B D) rings a G major chord, and open D (D A D F♯ A D) rings a D major chord. A barre (one finger across all the strings) moves the chord up a semitone for every fret. That is why open tunings are the home of slide guitar.
Major, minor and the same shape higher
Some open tunings have the same shape, just a whole step apart. Open E is open D raised a whole step, and open A is open G raised a whole step. The higher versions put more tension on the strings, so many players use the lower one with a capo. Minor versions such as open D minor lower one string by a semitone, which turns the major chord into a minor one.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular open tuning?
Open G and open D are the most common, especially for blues and slide guitar. Open G is also a favourite for rhythm guitar in rock.
What is the difference between open D and open E?
They use the same pattern of notes, but open E (E B E G♯ B E) is a whole step higher than open D (D A D F♯ A D). Open E puts more tension on the strings and neck.
Which open tuning is best for slide guitar?
Open G, open D and open E are the classics. Choose the one that suits your voice and songs. All three let you play full chords with a straight slide.