Guitar Chord Identifier
Tap the fretboard to identify any guitar chord. Supports standard tuning plus Drop D, DADGAD, Open G, Open D, and custom tunings with capo.
Tap the X/○ above each string to mute or open. Tap a fret cell to place or remove a finger.
How to Use the Guitar Chord Identifier
- Set your tuning — standard EADGBE is selected by default.
- Use the capo dropdown if you play with one.
- Tap the fretboard to build your chord fingering. Tap the X/○ at the top to mute or open individual strings.
- Read the identified chord on the right, with alternate names and interval breakdown.
- Want to find voicings for a known chord? Type a chord name (like “Cmaj7” or “F#dim”) in the search field.
Standard Guitar Tuning
The standard tuning for 6-string guitar is E A D G B E, from the lowest (thickest) string to the highest (thinnest). This tuning is nearly universal across acoustic, electric, and classical guitars. It balances chord-shape ergonomics with melody playability — most open chords fall comfortably within the first three frets.
Alternate tunings unlock different sonic palettes. Drop D (lowering the low E to D) is a favorite for rock riffs and power chords. DADGAD is beloved in Celtic and fingerstyle music. Open G and Open D make slide guitar and blues-resonator playing feel natural.
Common Open Guitar Chords
- Major: C, D, E, F, G, A
- Minor: Am, Dm, Em
- Seventh: A7, B7, C7, D7, E7, G7
- Suspended: Dsus2, Dsus4, Asus2, Asus4
- Major 7: Amaj7, Cmaj7, Dmaj7, Fmaj7, Gmaj7
Barre Chords & Moveable Shapes
A barre chord uses one finger pressed across multiple strings at one fret. Because open chord shapes like E, Em, A, and Am don't use open strings when converted into barre shapes, you can slide them up the neck to any fret to get that chord in any key. The E-shape and A-shape barre chords are the two most versatile patterns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What chord am I playing on guitar?
Tap the fret positions on the diagram to match how you're pressing the strings. The identifier analyzes the notes and shows the chord name plus alternative readings.
How do I play a chord I don't know?
Type the chord name in the search field. The tool shows playable voicings that you can click to load into the main diagram.
Which tuning should I use?
Start with standard tuning. Once comfortable, Drop D is an easy way to access heavier sounds. DADGAD, Open G, and Open D are great for fingerstyle and slide techniques.
Does the capo change the chord?
Yes. A capo raises every string by the number of frets it covers. An open C shape becomes D with a capo on fret 2, E with a capo on fret 4, and so on. The identifier applies the capo when naming your chord.
What is a slash chord like C/G?
When the lowest note isn't the chord's root, the bass note is written after a slash. C/G is a C major chord with G as the bass note.
Can I use this tool for classical or electric guitar?
Yes — the fretboard and tuning are the same. The tool identifies notes, not the timbre or technique of your guitar.