E5 guitar chord

The E5 chord (E power chord) is built from the notes E and B, formula 1–5.

Notes
E B
Type
power chord
Level
Beginner
OpenShape 1 of 3
×××12EBE
022xxx

How to play E5

The standard open E5 shape is 022xxx. It needs 2 fingers and stays in the first few frets, so it is one of the chords most players learn early.

Just the root and fifth. Power chords are neutral and punchy, especially with distortion.

Other ways to play it

Questions

What notes are in the E5 chord?

E5 contains E and B. Its formula is 1–5.

Is E5 hard to play on guitar?

No. The open shape (022xxx) is beginner-friendly and doesn't need a barre.

What can I play instead of E5?

E is the closest simpler chord. It keeps the same root and basic character, so it works when E5 is too hard or too busy.