What chromatic mode does
A chromatic tuner identifies the closest note from all twelve pitch classes. It is useful for unusual tunings, checking fretted notes, setting intonation, tuning other instruments, and diagnosing whether a string is near the wrong note.
What guitar mode does
Guitar mode compares the signal with a defined set of six string targets such as E A D G B E. A guided interface can highlight the nearest intended string and reduce confusion for beginners.
Which mode should you use?
Use a guitar preset when the tuning is available and you want clear string-by-string targets. Use chromatic mode when the tuning is not listed, when you are far from pitch, or when checking notes anywhere on the fretboard.
Step-by-step check
- Identify the tuning you need.
- Choose guitar mode if that preset exists.
- Use chromatic mode for unsupported notes or diagnostic work.
- Confirm the octave when making a large change.
- Switch back to the preset for a final six-string check.
Reliable tuning habits
Work with one string at a time, use a moderate and repeatable picking attack, and let the initial pitch settle briefly. Make the final adjustment by approaching the target from below so slack is taken out of the tuning post and nut. After all six strings are close, repeat the entire pass because every tension change can slightly affect the other strings.