C5 guitar chord (C Fifth, Power Chord)

Symbols: 5

Steps: 1-5

Notes: C-G

The C power chord, or fifth chord, is a staple in rock and heavy music. Made up of just the root and the perfect fifth (C and G), it delivers a clean, strong, and unambiguous sound. Its simplicity makes it highly versatile for riffs and rhythm playing. Below, you'll find ten variations how to play the "C 5" chord, each featuring finger placements and an audio sample.

Variation 1

Place your index finger on the B (2nd) string at the 1st fret and press down
Strum from the 3rd string to the 2nd strings

Variation 2

Press down on the D (4th) string at the 5th fret using your ring finger
With your index finger, press down on the A (5th) string at the 3rd fret
Strum from the 5th string to the 4th strings

Variation 3

Apply a barre with your ring finger across the 5th fret, covering the 3rd to the 4th strings
Position your index finger on the A (5th) string at the 3rd fret and press down
Strum from the 5th string to the 3rd strings

Variation 4

Place your ring finger on the G (3rd) string at the 5th fret and press down
Use your middle finger to press the D (4th) string down on the 5th fret
Strum from the 4th string to the 3rd strings

Variation 5

Press down on the A (5th) string at the 10th fret using your ring finger
With your index finger, press down on the low E (6th) string at the 8th fret
Now, strum all the strings up to the 5th string

Variation 6

Apply a barre with your ring finger across the 10th fret, covering the 4th to the 5th strings
Position your index finger on the low E (6th) string at the 8th fret and press down
Now, strum all the strings up to the 4th string