Best strings for Metal
Ranked by the CYS expert team. Updated 2026-04-20.
#1
CYS Likes
Full review →#3
#4
CYS Likes
Full review →#5
Ernie Ball
7-String Regular Slinky Cobalt (.010–.056)
.10 – .56
Price tier: $$
Drop DDrop CProgressive metal
#6
#7
#8
Ernie Ball
Power Slinky RPS 2242 Nickel Wound (.011–.048)
.11–.48
Ernie Ball
Power Slinky RPS 2242 Nickel Wound (.011–.048)
.11 – .48
Price tier: $
E StandardEb StandardRock
#9
D'Addario
EPS230 ProSteels Bass Light (.045–.100)
.45 – .100
Price tier: $$
E Standard (4-string)Eb Standard (4-string)Rock
#10
#12
#13
Ernie Ball
Regular Slinky RPS 2241 Nickel Wound (.010–.046)
.10–.46
Ernie Ball
Regular Slinky RPS 2241 Nickel Wound (.010–.046)
.10 – .46
Price tier: $
E StandardEb StandardRock
#14
#15
#16
Dean Markley
Blue Steel 2552 Cryogenic Light (.009–.042)
.9 – .42
Price tier: $
E StandardEb StandardRock
#17
Ernie Ball
5-String Regular Slinky Bass (.045–.130)
.45 – .130
Price tier: $
Bass — B StandardE Standard (4-string)Progressive metal
