If you're looking for the best cheap distortion pedal, you're in luck! A good distortion pedal can add depth and grit to your guitar sound without breaking the bank. Before making a purchase, there are a few factors you should consider to ensure you find the perfect pedal for your needs.
Firstly, think about the sound you're trying to achieve. Different distortion pedals offer varying levels of gain and tone shaping options. Some pedals have a more classic rock sound, while others are better suited for heavier metal tones. Consider the style of music you play and find a pedal that matches your desired sound.
Next, take into account the build quality and durability of the pedal. You want a pedal that will withstand the rigors of live performances and regular use. Look for pedals with high-quality components and a sturdy construction to ensure longevity.
Lastly, price is always a factor when it comes to purchasing gear. While cheap distortion pedals can be a great option, it's important to find a balance between affordability and quality. Research different brands and read user reviews to get an idea of which pedals offer the best value for money.
Are you tired of your guitar tone lacking that extra punch? Do you want to add some crunch and grit to your sound? If so, keep reading to discover the best cheap distortion pedal options on the market. Don't miss out on finding the perfect pedal to take your guitar playing to the next level.
10 Best Cheap Distortion Pedal
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1
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Ideal for creating classic distortion tone effects on guitars and basses, excluding power adapter.
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2
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The product is ideal for guitarists looking to add extreme distortion effects to their music.
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3
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This product is ideal for electric guitar players looking for a compact and budget-friendly distortion effects pedal.
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4
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It is ideal for musicians looking to add distortion and manipulate the frequency of their electric guitar sound.
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5
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Ideal for guitarists seeking a versatile and dynamic distortion pedal with customizable tone and voicing options.
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6
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Ideal for those looking for heavy metal distortion guitar pedal effect with 3 modes controls and true bypass in an aluminium-alloy casing.
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7
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This guitar pedal is ideal for creating various types of distortion sounds for electric guitars, particularly for 80s metal music.
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8
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The product is ideal for electric guitar players looking for a compact, reliable distortion pedal with true bypass and durable construction.
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9
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The product is ideal for creating heavy metal guitar distortion effects with a true bypass feature.
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10
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The product is ideal for electric guitarists seeking a classic British rock distortion effect with true bypass.
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1. Kokko Classic Distortion Mini Pedal

The Classic Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal is a must-have for guitar enthusiasts who want to achieve the perfect distortion tone. This pedal features a true bypass and a stage distortion design that provides a higher degree of distortion for a truly unique sound.
The LED indicator on the pedal shows the status of the effect, so you always know when it's in use. While the pedal does not come with a battery, it can be easily powered by an AC adapter (not included).
The backside of the pedal features rubber pads that are anti-skid, ensuring stability and preventing friction during use. This feature enhances the overall playing experience and allows for smoother transitions.
Crafted from high-quality aluminum alloy, this pedal is both durable and long-lasting. Despite its sturdy construction, the Classic Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal is designed in a classic mini size that makes it easy to transport and store.
Perhaps the best part of this pedal is the reasonable price point. Despite its high-quality design and construction, it is priced affordably, making it accessible for guitar enthusiasts of all levels. Invest in the Classic Distortion Guitar Effect Pedal today and elevate your playing to the next level.
2. Donner Distortion Guitar Pedal, Extreme Driver Analog Turbo Distortion Effect 3 Modes True Bypass

Introducing the Classic Distortion Pedal by Donner, a must-have for any classic rock enthusiast. This iconic pedal delivers a powerful and rich distorted sound that will take your guitar playing to the next level.
Featuring a versatile 3-way tone selector, you can easily customize your sound to suit your preferences. The TUBE mode offers a smooth and tube-like "E-mod" style sound, perfect for those seeking a vintage tone. If you prefer a more edgy and powerful sound, the ULTRA mode delivers a powerful and edgy "U-mod" style sound. Lastly, the NORMAL mode provides a classic, natural, and original 80's sound that will make you feel nostalgic.
Donner has incorporated exclusive electronic components and circuitry into this pedal, resulting in a rich and clear sound. You'll be amazed by the versatility and sound-shaping capabilities of this pedal. Whether you're performing on stage or recording in the studio, the Classic Distortion Pedal will deliver top-notch sound quality.
Durability is a key feature of this pedal. It boasts a sturdy and solid construction, thanks to its well-made aluminum-alloy design. This ensures that the pedal can withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a reliable companion for years to come. Additionally, the indicator lights on the pedal clearly display the working state, allowing you to easily monitor and adjust your settings on the fly.
One of the standout features of the Classic Distortion Pedal is its true bypass design. This means that when the pedal is not in use, the signal remains fully intact without any loss of strength or frequencies. Furthermore, the true bypass design eliminates any unwanted popping, buzzing, or electric noise that can often occur with other pedals.
Please note that the power adapter is not included with this pedal. Be sure to have a compatible power adapter to fully enjoy the capabilities of this pedal.
3. Lotmusic Crunch Distortion Electric Guitar Effects Pedal Mini Single Type Dc 9v True Bypass

Introducing the Distortion Pedal with Integrated Noise Reduction. This pedal has been developed with a unique code that effectively reduces noise swells that are common with Crunch Distortion circuits. As a result, you can enjoy the quietest and cleanest sound possible with this pedal.
The Pure Signal technology used in this pedal ensures that the signal flow remains pure even when the Crunch Distortion effect is disengaged. This is made possible through the use of true bypass switching. Additionally, the dedicated Gain, Volume and Tone knobs allow for precise effect tailoring, giving you complete control over your sound.
The entire Crunch Distortion pedal is constructed from high-quality aluminum alloy, which makes it both sturdy and durable. This not only ensures that it can withstand frequent use, but also makes it safe to transport.
For those who are always on the go, this Crunch Distortion pedal is the perfect companion. It features a small and lightweight body, making it easy to carry around. It can be powered by a DC 9V adapter (which is not included in the package).
The two-knob setup of this pedal is unbelievably inexpensive and simple to use. However, if you encounter any problems with the pedal, you can always contact the manufacturer for a perfect solution. Their lifetime promise ensures that you can rely on this pedal for years to come.
4. Saphue Crunch Guitar Pedal With High-Low Frequency Effect.

The distortion pedal being reviewed boasts an Integrated Noise Reduction feature that significantly reduces noise swells that are often experienced with Crunch distortion circuit. This means that users can enjoy a quiet, uninterrupted sound while using the pedal.
In terms of simplicity, this two-knob setup is unbelievably easy to use. Users can expect a hassle-free experience without having to go through complicated processes. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a lifetime promise. Should there be any problems with the distortion pedal, customers can simply contact the manufacturer for a perfect solution. This gives users peace of mind knowing that they can rely on the manufacturer for assistance whenever necessary.
The pedal also maintains pure signal flow when disengaged thanks to its True Bypass Switching feature. This helps users achieve a clear and natural sound during performances. The dedicated Volume & Dist & Tone knobs allow for precise customization of the effects, enabling users to tailor the sound according to their preferences.
The pedal is built to last with a sturdy Aluminium alloy body, making it safe to transport. It is lightweight and has a small size body, making it easy to carry to outdoor gigs or other events. Users can power the pedal with a DC 9V adapter (not included in the package).
5. Dark Matter: Extreme Distortion With Eq Switch

This distortion pedal offers musicians a range of tonal possibilities, thanks to its comprehensive Gain, Level, Bass and Treble controls. With these parameters, users can easily fine-tune their distortion sounds to their liking, ensuring a precise and personalized performance every time.
The pedal also features a True Bypass function, which ensures that there is zero loss of tone when the pedal is not in use. This guarantees that the natural sound of the guitar is preserved, without any alterations or distortions.
One unique feature of this distortion pedal is its Voicing switch, which provides an awesome shift in bass response. This switch allows users to add extra depth to their sound, providing a richer and more complex tonal character.
Compact and lightweight, this pedal is easy to transport and set up, making it a perfect choice for musicians on the go. It has a package weight of 11.6 ounces, ensuring that it won't weigh down any gig bag or pedalboard.
6. Azor Metal Distortion Pedal: True Bypass, 3 Modes

The AZOR Heavy Metal Pedal is the perfect addition to any guitar player's arsenal. With its classic heavy metal distortion sound, this pedal is sure to satisfy any guitarist's craving for rich and powerful sound. The customizable tone is made possible by the pedal's 3 functional knobs (VOL/DIST/MID), giving players complete control over their sound. The VOL knob allows for volume adjustments while the DIST and MID knobs enable players to fine-tune their distortion and midrange frequencies.
The 2-way selector switch (Extreme/Classic) adds versatility to the pedal's sound. This switch offers a subtle variation from the compressed classic tone to the open modern extreme sound, giving players even more options to tailor their sound to their preferences.
In addition to its remarkable sound quality, this pedal is also designed for portability. The mini-style design of the pedal makes it small, lightweight, and easy to transport, while the enduring, light-weighted aluminum alloy chassis ensures it can withstand the rigors of heavy use.
Powering up this pedal is also easy. It is powered by a 9V DC adapter with center negative polarity (no power adapter included), ensuring players can easily power it up and start playing.
7. Donner Morpher Distortion: Classic Metal Crunch.

Donner's Morpher is a High-Gain distortion pedal that produces a unique sound that's reminiscent of a crossover between MI Crunch Box and Suhr Riot. Its unique sound is perfect for those who enjoy hair metal, glam metal, and pop metal. This distortion pedal has three modes that are designed to enhance the playability of the guitar. The wide dynamic range and high definition make it suitable for both shredding and riffing.
Constructed using durable and solid aluminium-alloy, Donner's Morpher is built to last. The indicator lights clearly reflect the working state of the pedal, providing the user with a clear understanding of what's happening. The true bypass design of this pedal ensures that it delivers a transparent tone. The signal remains fully intact while passing through the effects pedal with no popping, buzzing, or electric noise. Additionally, there's no loss of strength and frequencies.
The package includes Donner's Giant Metal distortion pedal and an owner's manual. However, it's important to note that the power adapter is not included.
8. Flamma Metal Distortion Guitar Pedal

Introducing the dynamic and versatile distortion pedal, perfect for any guitarist looking to elevate their sound- the Ultrawide Distortion Pedal. With its open tube-like drive sound and exceptional ultrawide dynamic range, this pedal delivers unparalleled sound quality and performance.
Experience the ultimate control with the Ultrawide Distortion Pedal's 2 distortion working modes: High Peak Mode and Low Peak Mode. The High Peak Mode boosts the bottom-end and increases distortion with the Drive knob, resulting in heightened volume and a slight increase in the high-mid range (around 3.5KHz). On the other hand, the Low Peak Mode adds just a touch of color to the original sound, making it ideal for clean boosting.
For those who value pure and transparent tone, the Ultrawide Distortion Pedal's true bypass feature ensures that your signal remains unaltered and true to your playing style. Its small size and full metal shell design make it both portable and durable, perfect for musicians on-the-go.
Please note that the DC 9V adapter power supply is not included with the Ultrawide Distortion Pedal. But don't worry, it's easy to find and use with your existing setup.
9. Rowin Analog Heavy Metal Distortion Pedal For Guitar True Bypass

The Rowin LEF-317 Booster Guitar Pedal is a versatile and durable option for guitarists looking to enhance their tone. The pedal features a 3-way toggle switch that allows the player to choose from a hi-boost, low boost, and off boost. This feature provides additional shaping to the sound, allowing for a varied range of tones.
In addition to the 3-way toggle switch, the pedal also comes equipped with gain and tone controls. The Lo and off boost positions are perfect for achieving a great rhythm tone, and players can experiment with the tone and gain knobs to recreate tones from their favorite bands or create their own unique sound. When it's time to shred, simply switch to the Hi-Boost position for a face-melting solo.
The pedal is constructed of high-quality zinc alloy, making it durable and sturdy. The true bypass feature ensures transparent tone, and the LED indicator shows the working state of the pedal. Measuring at a small and exquisite size, the Rowin LEF-317 Booster Guitar Pedal can save a lot of space on a pedal board.
Please note that the pedal does not include a power adapter and requires a DC 9V power supply with negative in the center to power up. Customers can purchase the power adapter separately at Rowin Music store. Overall, the Rowin LEF-317 Booster Guitar Pedal is an excellent choice for guitarists looking for a versatile, durable, and space-saving pedal that provides a range of tonal options.
10. Joyo British Crunch Pedal: Electric Guitar Distortion Effect

The JOYO Crunch Distortion guitar pedal is the perfect addition to any classic rock enthusiast's collection. This pedal boasts great response and sustain, allowing for precision fine-tuning with its easy-to-use controls. The simple design and pedal interface make it easy to achieve anything from a brilliant clean boost to the sound of a Full Stack cranked up, and everything in between – all at your fingertips with the Crunch Distortion.
This pedal features True Bypass, providing transparent tone to keep the best tone quality possible. The aluminium-alloy housing has a classic stoving varnish finish, making it both stable and strong. JOYO is a highly reputable brand with over a decade of experience in producing popular budget pedals, amplifiers, wireless systems, controllers, metronomes, and tuners, winning the love of global guitarists and inspiring people's music dreams.
Before using the Crunch Distortion pedal, it is important to make sure your guitar is fully connected to the pedal to ensure proper functionality and to avoid unexpected noise. JOYO highly recommends purchasing an extra JOYO original power adapter or choosing another reliable brand to ensure the pedal's working current requirement is met.
Best Cheap Distortion Pedal FAQs
Are there any budget distortion pedals that can replicate the sound of famous guitarists?
Yes, there are budget distortion pedals available in the market that can help replicate the sound of famous guitarists. While they may not offer the exact same tone as the high-end, signature pedals used by these guitarists, they can still provide a close approximation at a more affordable price point. Some popular budget distortion pedals known for their versatility and ability to emulate famous guitar tones include the Boss DS-1, Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi, and the Pro Co Rat. It's important to note that achieving an exact replication of a specific guitarist's sound involves a combination of factors including the guitar, amplifier, and other effects pedals used. Experimenting with different combinations and settings can help you get closer to the desired tone. Additionally, using amp modeling software or multi-effects processors can also be a cost-effective way to access a wide range of famous guitar tones.
Are there any budget-friendly distortion pedals that offer built-in effects or additional features?
Yes, there are several budget-friendly distortion pedals available in the market that offer built-in effects or additional features. One such option is the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal. It provides a classic distortion tone and is known for its affordability. Additionally, it has a tone control knob to adjust the overall sound and a level knob for controlling the output volume. Another option is the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Distortion/Sustainer Pedal. This pedal offers a versatile range of distortion tones and has a sustain control knob for adjusting the sustain level. It is also known for its affordable price and durability. Other budget-friendly distortion pedals with built-in effects or additional features include the MXR M75 Super Badass Distortion Pedal and the TC Electronic Dark Matter Distortion Pedal. Overall, these pedals provide great value for money and are suitable for those on a budget.
Can you compare and recommend the best cheap distortion pedal for beginners?
When it comes to cheap distortion pedals for beginners, there are a few options that stand out in terms of affordability and quality. One popular choice is the Behringer TO800 Vintage Tube Overdrive Pedal. It offers a warm and classic tube-like distortion tone at a very budget-friendly price. Another good option is the Donner Blues Drive Classical Electronic Vintage Overdrive Pedal. It provides a versatile range of distortion tones and is known for its durability.
If you're looking for a pedal with more versatility, the Joyo JF-02 Ultimate Overdrive Pedal is worth considering. It offers a wide range of distortion tones, from mild overdrive to heavier distortion, and is known for its solid construction. Finally, the TC Electronic Dark Matter Distortion Pedal is also a great choice. It provides a wide range of distortion options and has a built-in EQ, allowing you to shape your tone to your liking.
Ultimately, the best cheap distortion pedal for beginners depends on your specific preferences and budget. I recommend trying out a few different options if possible, or reading reviews from other musicians to find the one that suits your needs best.
Can you recommend a budget-friendly distortion pedal that offers a versatile range of tones?
Certainly! One budget-friendly distortion pedal that I highly recommend is the Boss DS-1 Distortion Pedal. It is known for its versatility and affordability. The DS-1 offers a wide range of tones, from mild overdrive to heavy distortion, making it suitable for various genres of music.
This pedal is famous for its iconic sound, with a distinctive mid-range boost that cuts through the mix. It is also known for its solid construction and durability, ensuring that it can withstand the rigors of live performances and studio use. The DS-1 is highly regarded by both beginners and professionals alike, thanks to its simplicity and ease of use.
Another great option to consider is the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi Distortion/Sustainer Pedal. It is a classic pedal that has been used by many renowned guitarists. The Big Muff Pi offers a wide range of distortion tones, from smooth and creamy overdrive to aggressive fuzz. It is particularly popular among rock and alternative musicians for its thick and saturated sound.
Overall, both the Boss DS-1 and Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi are excellent choices for a budget-friendly distortion pedal with versatile tones.
Can you suggest a low-cost distortion pedal that doesn't sacrifice durability?
Sure! One low-cost distortion pedal that is known for its durability is the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal. Despite its affordable price, the RAT2 is built like a tank and can withstand the rigors of live performances and heavy use. It features a sturdy metal enclosure that ensures longevity and reliability. The RAT2 also offers a wide range of distortion tones, from mild overdrive to aggressive distortion, making it a versatile choice for guitarists of various genres. Additionally, it has simple controls for adjusting the level, distortion, and filter, allowing for easy customization of your desired tone. Overall, the Pro Co RAT2 is an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly distortion pedal without compromising on durability.
What are some affordable distortion pedals that are known for their high-quality sound?
There are several affordable distortion pedals that are known for their high-quality sound. One popular option is the Boss DS-1 Distortion pedal. It has been a staple in many guitarists' pedalboards for decades and offers a wide range of distortion tones at an affordable price. Another great choice is the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi. This pedal is famous for its thick and creamy distortion sound, and it is often praised for its affordability compared to other boutique pedals. The Pro Co RAT is also worth considering. It has a reputation for its versatile distortion capabilities and is often described as a "jack of all trades" pedal. Additionally, the TC Electronic Dark Matter Distortion pedal is known for its transparent and versatile distortion tones, making it another affordable option to consider. These pedals are all well-regarded for their sound quality and offer excellent value for their price.
What are the top-rated distortion pedals in terms of value for money?
When it comes to distortion pedals, there are several top-rated options that offer excellent value for money. One highly recommended pedal is the Boss DS-1 Distortion. Known for its affordability and versatility, the DS-1 delivers a wide range of distorted tones suitable for various music genres. Another popular choice is the Pro Co RAT2 Distortion Pedal, which offers a rich and dynamic distortion sound at a reasonable price. The RAT2 is particularly favored by guitarists for its robust build quality and straightforward controls. Additionally, the Electro-Harmonix Big Muff Pi is a legendary distortion pedal known for its iconic fuzz tones. Despite its higher price tag, the Big Muff Pi is highly regarded for its vintage sound and durability. Ultimately, the best distortion pedal for you depends on your personal preferences and the specific tone you are seeking. It is always recommended to try out different pedals and read user reviews to find the one that suits your needs and budget.
What is the best distortion pedal under $50?
There are several distortion pedals available in the market under $50 that offer great value for money. One such option is the Behringer Ultra Distortion UD100. It is a highly affordable pedal that provides a wide range of distortion tones, from mild overdrive to heavy distortion. It features dedicated controls for level, distortion, and tone, allowing you to customize your sound. Another popular choice is the Donner Morpher Distortion Pedal. It offers a versatile range of distortion tones and has controls for level, tone, and gain. Additionally, the TC Electronic Dark Matter Distortion pedal is another excellent option. It delivers a wide range of distortion tones, from vintage crunch to high-gain distortion. Ultimately, the best distortion pedal under $50 will depend on your personal preference and the specific sound you are looking for, so I would suggest trying out a few options if possible to find the one that suits your needs the best.
Which cheap distortion pedal is ideal for heavy metal or hard rock genres?
When it comes to finding a cheap distortion pedal that is ideal for heavy metal or hard rock genres, one option to consider is the Behringer Ultra Metal UM300. This pedal offers a wide range of heavy distortion tones at an affordable price point. It features dedicated controls for gain, level, and two-band EQ, allowing you to shape your tone to suit your preferences. The UM300 also includes a built-in noise gate to help eliminate unwanted noise and feedback. While it may not have the same level of durability or tonal versatility as higher-end pedals, it can certainly deliver the aggressive and heavy tones desired in metal and hard rock music. If you're on a budget and looking for a cost-effective option, the Behringer Ultra Metal UM300 is worth considering.
Which inexpensive distortion pedal provides a warm, vintage tone?
If you're on the hunt for an inexpensive distortion pedal that delivers a warm, vintage tone, I would recommend checking out the Behringer Vintage Tube Overdrive TO800. This pedal is known for its ability to replicate the warm and smooth overdriven tones reminiscent of classic tube amplifiers. It features dedicated controls for drive, tone, and level, allowing you to fine-tune your sound to your liking. Despite its affordability, the Behringer TO800 is highly regarded by many guitarists for its impressive vintage tone and solid build quality. However, it's worth noting that individual preferences may vary, so I would encourage you to try out different pedals if possible to find the one that best suits your needs and personal taste.