The fretboard is the playing surface of a stringed instrument where notes are formed by pressing the strings against the frets. It runs along the neck and is typically made from woods such as rosewood, maple, or ebony, each contributing a slightly different feel and tonal response.

The fretboard affects playability, comfort, and tone, influencing how smoothly the instrument plays and how clearly notes articulate. Factors such as radius, fret size, and material all play a role in how an instrument feels under the fingers and responds to the player.