Whether you're buying a new set of tuning pegs or simply want to learn more about how they work, let's take a look at the most popular machine head types of machine heads, starting with...
Open-back & sealed tuners
Open-back tuners have an exposed mechanism, while sealed tuners are completely covered. Caring for open-back tuners is easier, but they wear faster as they're exposed to dirt and dust. Lubricating them is considerably simpler and can be done without removing the pegs from their posts. Sealed tuners, on the other hand, require significantly less care and tend to last longer.
Side-mounted & inline tuners
If your guitar has two pairs of three tuning pegs mounted on each side of headstock, they are side-mounted tuners. Whereas, if it has a single set of six tuning machines placed horizontally along the headstock, it has inline tuners.
Regular & locking tuners
The invention of locking tuners changed the game for guitarists worldwide. They may look like regular tuning pegs, but they feature a locking pin that completely stops the string from moving after it has been tuned. This ensures far better tuning stability to certain degree and mostly makes string changes quicker and easier.
Press-fit & screw-on tuners
Press-fit tuners, also known as push-in tuners, are attached to the headstock without screws, relying on precise fitting and friction to stay in place. They offer a clean, streamlined look and easier installation but might be less secure over time.
Screw-on tuners, as you would expect, are attached with screws, providing a more stable and durable connection. They are less likely to shift or loosen, ensuring consistent tuning stability.
Staggered tuners
Staggered tuners are, as the name suggests, tuners that are staggered. Therefore, the first tuner (low E string) is taller than the second tuner, the second taller than the third, etc., with the final tuner (for the top e string) being the shortest in height. They are usually installed on Fender-style six-in-line instruments that don’t have an angled headstock to increase the string angle.
