The best noise gate pedal is essential for guitarists and bassists looking to clean up their signal chain by eliminating unwanted hum, buzz, and hiss, particularly in high-gain settings.
Best Noise Gate Pedals | Best Noise Gate Pedals Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 94 | 3175+ | |||
 | 95 | 1050+ | |||
 | 95 | 475+ | |||
 | 92 | 475+ | |||
 | 90 | 50+ |
Best Budget Noise Gate Pedal | Best Budget Noise Gate Pedal Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 89 | 2025+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
What Does a Noise Gate Pedal Do?
A noise gate pedal is designed to reduce or eliminate unwanted noise in your signal chain when you’re not playing.
This noise reduction pedal works by shutting off the signal when it drops below a certain threshold, preventing hum, hiss, or buzz from passing through.
The best noise gate guitar pedal will maintain your tone while effectively removing unwanted noise, even with single-coil pickups that are more prone to noise.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best noise gate pedal options available today, helping you choose the best guitar noise gate pedal for your rig.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your gear, this list includes the best noise gate pedals for all experience levels.
Best Noise Gate Pedals
Boss NS-2
A reliable and versatile noise suppressor that’s perfect for handling high-gain setups without sacrificing tone.
Pros:
- Reliable noise suppression in high-gain setups
- Versatile with noise gate and suppression modes
- Durable and well-built for live use
- Slight tone coloration at higher settings
- Lacks advanced control options
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The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor is widely regarded as one of the best noise gate pedals due to its reliability and solid performance. The NS-2 not only works as a noise gate but also serves as a noise suppressor, reducing hum, buzz, and interference from your entire signal chain. This pedal features controls for threshold, decay, and mode, giving you plenty of flexibility to shape how it interacts with your signal.
Many musicians appreciate that the Boss NS-2 can handle high-gain setups without sacrificing tone. It’s often debated whether the NS-2 should be considered a noise suppression pedal or a noise gate, but it functions well as both. The pedal is particularly effective when placed at the end of your signal chain, although some users experiment with positioning it before or after a compressor or distortion pedal to suit their specific needs.
Feedback from users is overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the NS-2 for its transparency and durability. However, some players have found that it may slightly color the tone when used aggressively. For the majority of guitarists, this trade-off is minimal compared to the benefits of a quieter, cleaner signal. The NS-2 is also effective in controlling amp hum, especially when dealing with noisy pedals.
The Boss NS-2 is a great all-around choice for anyone seeking one of the best guitar noise gate pedals. Its combination of noise suppression and gate features makes it versatile, and it’s well-suited for most signal chains. Whether you’re playing at home or on stage, this pedal delivers solid performance across the board, especially for high-gain players.
- Control: Mode, Decay, Threshold
- Inputs: 2 x Instrument
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4″”
- Power: 9V Battery, 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 1 lb.
TC Electronic Sentry
Pros:
- Precise multi-band noise gating
- Customizable via TonePrint technology
- Maintains tone transparency
- Controls can be overwhelming for new users
- Higher cost compared to simpler pedals
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The TC Electronic Sentry Noise Gate is a standout for players looking for the best noise gate guitar pedal that offers deep customization. This pedal incorporates multi-band noise reduction, allowing you to target specific frequencies for more effective noise suppression. It’s ideal for players who require precision, whether dealing with low-end hum or high-frequency hiss from single-coil pickups.
One of the most attractive features of the Sentry is its compatibility with TC Electronic’s TonePrint technology. This allows you to download artist presets or create your own noise gate settings, making it one of the most adaptable noise gate pedals on the market. The pedal also provides excellent control over threshold and decay, ensuring you can fine-tune the gate’s behavior to your preferences. The pedal’s front panel is user-friendly, making it easy to adjust on the fly during live performances.
Users rave about the transparency and effectiveness of the Sentry, especially when using high-gain amps. For many, the question of whether to place a noise gate before or after distortion becomes easier with the Sentry, as its adaptability ensures that it works well in almost any position in your signal chain. The only downside some users mention is that the wide array of options might be overwhelming for beginners.
The TC Electronic Sentry is the best noise gate pedal for those who need advanced control and flexibility. Its multi-band capabilities and TonePrint integration make it a top choice for professional and tech-savvy guitarists. If you’re looking to eliminate unwanted noise without compromising your playing dynamics, this is the pedal for you.
- Control: Gate Toneprint Hiss, Threshold, Damp, Decay
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″” (instrument), 1 x 1/4″” (return)
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″” (out), 1 x 1/4″” (send)
- Power: 9V Battery, 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 0.8 lbs.
ISP Technologies Decimator X
Pros:
- Simple one-knob operation
- Effective at reducing noise in high-gain environments
- Transparent with minimal tone impact
- Lacks additional control features
- May be too basic for those needing customization
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The ISP Technologies Decimator X Noise Reduction Pedal is known for delivering professional-level performance, making it one of the best noise gate pedals for guitarists who need extreme noise reduction. The Decimator X utilizes Time Vector Processing technology to dynamically track your signal and apply noise reduction with unmatched precision. This is particularly useful when you’re using high-gain amps or complex effects chains, as it helps to eliminate unwanted noise without affecting your tone.
What sets the Decimator X apart is its simplicity. With just a single threshold control, it’s one of the easiest noise gate pedals to use, yet it’s also one of the most powerful. This pedal excels when placed at the end of your signal chain, though it can be just as effective if placed before or after a compressor, depending on your setup. It’s also effective in an effects loop, where it can clean up noise from the entire signal chain.
User reviews frequently highlight the Decimator X’s transparency and effectiveness. Many have noted that it’s one of the best noise gate guitar pedals for eliminating even the most persistent noise without compromising tone or sustain. However, some users have expressed a desire for more control options, particularly when adjusting to different environments. The Decimator X is particularly well-suited for use with gain pedals and can effectively manage amp hum and high-gain riffs.
The ISP Technologies Decimator X is perfect for players looking for a simple yet highly effective noise gate pedal. It’s especially recommended for guitarists using high-gain setups who need superior noise reduction without losing their tone. If you’re dealing with noisy pedals in your chain, this pedal is a great choice.
- Control: Threshold
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Power: 9V Battery, 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 1 lb.
ISP Technologies Decimator II
An easy-to-use pedal that delivers excellent noise control, making it a top choice for simplicity and effectiveness.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use single threshold control
- Compact and pedalboard-friendly
- Effective noise control without tone loss
- Minimal control options
- Relatively high price for its simplicity
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The ISP Technologies Decimator II is another excellent option for players looking for the best noise gate pedal. Similar to the Decimator X, the Decimator II uses Time Vector Processing for precise and dynamic noise reduction. This pedal is easy to use, featuring a single threshold knob that simplifies the setup process while delivering effective noise reduction across the board.
The Decimator II’s design makes it perfect for eliminating noise from even the noisiest pedalboards. It works well when placed at the end of your signal chain, though like its sibling, it performs admirably when placed before or after a compressor, depending on your gear. Whether you’re looking for a noise gate before or after distortion, this pedal can handle both scenarios effortlessly, making it a versatile addition to any rig.
User sentiments about the Decimator II are overwhelmingly positive, with many praising it for its transparent operation and ability to clean up even the dirtiest of high-gain setups. Some users do wish the pedal offered more advanced controls, but the simplicity is part of its appeal for players who want effective noise suppression without having to tweak multiple settings. The Decimator II is particularly effective in an effects loop or in controlling noise from high-gain amps.
The ISP Technologies Decimator II is an excellent choice for guitarists who value simplicity and effectiveness. It’s one of the best noise gate pedals for those who need superior noise reduction in a compact, easy-to-use package. If you’re looking to eliminate unwanted noise and maintain your playing dynamics, this pedal is a solid investment.
- Control: Threshold
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Power: 9V Battery, 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
Boss NS-1X
An adaptive noise suppressor that performs exceptionally well in both live and studio settings.
Pros:
- Adaptive noise suppression that adjusts to playing dynamics
- Quick and easy threshold and release adjustments
- Ideal for live and studio use
- Advanced features might be unnecessary for basic setups
- Higher price compared to other noise gates
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The Boss NS-1X Noise Suppressor builds on the success of the NS-2, offering more advanced noise suppression while preserving your tone. It’s designed for players who need enhanced performance in demanding situations, making it one of the best noise suppressor pedals available today. The NS-1X is equipped with advanced algorithms that adapt to your playing style, ensuring smooth and precise noise reduction without cutting off your sustain prematurely.
This pedal’s controls allow for quick and easy adjustments to threshold and release, making it versatile enough for use in both live and studio environments. The NS-1X performs exceptionally well when placed at the end of your signal chain, but some users have found success placing it before or after a compressor, depending on their needs. It’s also effective in managing noise from high-gain amps and in controlling hum from single-coil pickups.
Users appreciate the NS-1X for its responsiveness and transparency. Many have noted that it’s one of the best noise gate pedals for live performances, where quick adjustments are essential. The adaptive noise suppression technology ensures that your tone remains intact even under heavy noise reduction, making it a favorite among gigging musicians.
The Boss NS-1X is an excellent choice for players who need advanced noise suppression with minimal tone loss. It’s particularly well-suited for live performances and studio work where precision is key. If you’re dealing with high-gain amps and want to eliminate unwanted noise, the NS-1X is a top contender.
- Control: Mode, Decay, Threshold, Damp
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Other I/O: 2 x 1/4″” (send, return), 1 x 2.1mm plug (DC out)
- Power: 9V Battery, 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 1.19 lbs.
Best Budget Noise Gate
Donner Noise Killer
A budget-friendly option that effectively reduces noise, making it great for beginners and simple setups.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly option
- Compact and simple single-knob control
- Good for basic noise reduction
- Struggles with very high-gain signals
- Less transparent and customizable than premium models
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The Donner Noise Gate Pedal is one of the best noise gate pedals for musicians on a budget. This compact noise reduction pedal provides simple but effective noise suppression, making it ideal for beginners or those with smaller pedalboards. Despite its low price, the Donner Noise Gate offers solid performance, particularly for basic noise reduction tasks, including eliminating hum from high-gain amps and noisy pedals.
The pedal’s single threshold knob makes it incredibly easy to use, and it works well in most signal chains. While it may not be as transparent or feature-rich as some of the higher-end models, it’s still one of the best budget noise gate pedals available. Whether you place it before or after distortion, it manages to clean up most of the unwanted noise without dramatically affecting your tone. It’s also effective in controlling noise in an effects loop, making it versatile for various setups.
User reviews are generally positive, with many praising the Donner Noise Gate for its affordability and effectiveness. However, some users have noted that it struggles with more complex setups or very high-gain environments, so it may not be the best choice for advanced players with elaborate rigs.
If you’re looking for an affordable and effective noise gate pedal, the Donner Noise Gate is a solid choice. It’s perfect for beginners or those with simpler setups who need basic noise reduction without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to eliminate unwanted noise and keep your signal chain clean, this budget-friendly option is worth considering.
- Control: Mode, Threshold
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″”
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 0.51 lbs.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Noise Gate Pedal
Noise Suppression vs Noise Gate
It’s important to understand the difference between noise suppression and a noise gate. While a noise reduction pedal suppresses unwanted noise across the entire frequency range, a noise gate simply mutes the signal when it drops below the threshold.
The best noise suppressor guitar pedal can combine both technologies for maximum versatility. This is particularly useful when dealing with noisy pedals in your effects chain.
If you’re using noisy pedals like overdrive or distortion then the best guitar pedal to get next is a good noise gate pedal.
Placement in the Pedal Chain
Where does a noise gate go in a pedal chain? Typically, noise gates are placed at the end of your chain to catch noise from your entire signal.
However, where to put noise gate in signal chain will change depending on other factors. In some cases, you might need to place the noise gate before or after compressor or distortion pedal, depending on your setup.
Finding the right spot for your noise gate can significantly affect how it interacts with other pedals, especially in an effects loop or when using the four cable method.
Budget and Features
When shopping for the best noise gate pedals, consider what features you need. Do you want something with advanced controls or a simpler design?
The best noise gate guitar pedals offer features like multiple threshold settings, decay control, and more. If you’re on a tight budget, you might prefer something basic but effective, like a budget-friendly noise reduction pedal that can still handle high-gain amp setups and high-gain riffs.
Best Noise Gate Pedal Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in August 26, 2024
We analyzed over 11,100 ratings and reviews from guitarists, bassists, and audio professionals to identify the top contenders. We narrowed it down to a shortlist of 14 pedals that are highly recommended for their ability to cut out unwanted noise without compromising your tone.
Each pedal was carefully evaluated on factors like noise reduction effectiveness, transparency, build quality, and ease of use. We then fed all this data into the Gearank Algorithm, which processes everything and assigns a score out of 100 to each pedal, giving you a clear, objective ranking.
We update our recommendations regularly to include the latest products and user feedback. Our goal is to provide a straightforward, transparent process so you can trust the scores and make an informed choice for your setup. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Contributors
Jerry Borillo: Research and Illustration.
Alexander Briones: Editing.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com using a photographs.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers.
The videos have been embedded in accordance with YouTube’s Terms of Service.
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