Our research into the best overdrive and distortion pedals revealed some amazing results. Read here to see which dirt pedals ranked the highest.
Under $100 | Under $100 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 86 | 1950+ | |||
 | 92 | 425+ |
Under $200 | Under $200 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 91 | 675+ | |||
 | 94 | 100+ | |||
 | 92 | 125+ |
Under $300 | Under $300 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 96 | 700+ |
Above $300 | Above $300 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 92 | 125+ |
*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
If you’re a guitarist looking to add some serious character to your sound, overdrive and distortion pedals are essential tools. Whether you’re chasing that classic rock crunch, bluesy warmth, or heavy metal grit, the right pedal can make all the difference. In this article, we’ll dive into some of the best overdrive and distortion pedals on the market, breaking them down by price range. Let’s get into it!
Best Overdrive and Distortion Pedals Under $100
Behringer OD300 Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
This pedal is ideal for those looking for a highly affordable overdrive/distortion combo. It’s great for beginners or budget-conscious guitarists who want a versatile pedal without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Great budget option
- Good range of tones
- Ideal for beginners
- Cheap plastic enclosure and switch
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The Behringer OD300 offers three main controls: Level, Tone, and Drive. The Level knob adjusts the overall output volume, the Tone knob shapes the EQ, and the Drive knob controls the amount of gain. The pedal also features a Mode switch to toggle between Overdrive and Distortion settings.
One of the standout features of the OD300 is its dual-mode functionality, making it one of the best overdrive distortion combo pedals in this price range. This allows players to switch between overdrive and distortion, providing a wide range of tones in one pedal.
Many users praise the OD300 for its impressive sound quality at an affordable price. It’s often highlighted in reviews as a good overdrive pedal. However, some users mention that the plastic housing feels less durable than metal alternatives.
The OD300 performs well, especially for its price. It’s straightforward to use, making it an excellent choice for beginners or as a backup pedal for more experienced players.
The Behringer OD300 is perfect for beginners, budget-conscious players, and those looking for a versatile, affordable option. Its combination of overdrive and distortion makes it a great first pedal, offering enough variety to help new players find their sound without breaking the bank. For those seeking one of the best overdrive and distortion pedals under $100, the OD300 is a strong contender.
- Controls: Level, Tone, Drive, Mode
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately), 9V Battery
- Weight: 0.73 lbs.
Electro-Harmonix OD Glove MOSFET Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
Known for its MOSFET circuitry, this pedal offers a unique tonal character, making it a top choice for those seeking a versatile and affordable overdrive/distortion pedal with a distinct sound.
Pros:
- Great tone and range
- Usable EQ range
- Nice feel and clarity at any gain setting
- Charge pump allows running at higher voltage without changing power supply
- Not the cleanest boost
- Can get noisy at high gain
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The OD Glove features controls for Volume, Gain, and Tone, along with an Internal Volts switch that allows you to change the operating voltage for different tonal characteristics. The Tone knob provides a wide range of EQ shaping, and the Gain knob offers a significant amount of drive.
The OD Glove uses MOSFET technology to emulate the sound of tube amplifiers, delivering a warm, rich tone. It also includes a switchable mid-range boost, making it one of the top-rated overdrive pedals in its class.
Users appreciate the OD Glove for its robust build and dynamic range. Many highlight its ability to deliver both smooth overdrive and aggressive distortion, often referring to it as one of the best guitar overdrive pedals.
The OD Glove is a standout in the under $100 category. Its MOSFET circuitry shines, delivering a tube-like warmth that’s impressive for the price. It offers excellent value and a sound quality that rivals more expensive options, making it a smart choice for intermediate players looking to expand their tonal palette. For those seeking a great overdrive pedal, the OD Glove is a fantastic choice.
- Controls: Gain, Tone, Volume, Tone Shift Switch
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately), 9V Battery
- Weight: 0.55 lbs.
Best Overdrive and Distortion Pedals Under $200
Boss OS-2 Distortion/Overdrive Pedal
The OS-2 is perfect for guitarists looking for a pedal that can handle both overdrive and distortion with ease, offering a wide range of tones from one unit. It’s particularly suitable for those who need versatility in their sound.
Pros:
- Color knob does great job of blending gain ranges
- Boss build quality
- Tones fit well in mix
- Also great on bass
- Can only dial one setting at a time for Dist/OD
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The Boss OS-2 features Level, Tone, Drive, and Color knobs. The Color knob allows you to blend between overdrive and distortion, providing a wide range of tonal possibilities. The Level knob adjusts the output volume, and the Tone knob shapes the EQ.
The OS-2’s ability to blend overdrive and distortion makes it a highly versatile pedal, suitable for various genres and playing styles. It is often mentioned among the best overdrive distortion combo pedals available.
Many players appreciate the OS-2 for its reliability and tonal flexibility. It’s a popular choice for gigging musicians due to its robust construction and consistent performance.
The OS-2 is incredibly user-friendly. Its intuitive controls make it easy to dial in the perfect sound, whether you’re looking for a subtle overdrive or a full-on distortion.
The OS-2 is perfect for gigging musicians and those looking for a reliable, versatile pedal that can handle multiple genres. The Boss OS-2 stands out as a robust, stage-ready pedal that offers a wide range of tones, making it a great addition to any guitarist’s rig. As one of the best overdrive and distortion pedals under $200, the OS-2 is a solid investment.
- Controls: Level, Tone, Drive, Color
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately), 9V Battery
- Weight: 1 lb.
Wampler Ratsbane Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
This pedal is tailored for players who appreciate boutique-quality pedals. It’s designed for those who want a high-quality, hand-built pedal that delivers classic tones with modern reliability.
Pros:
- Classic RAT sound
- More tonal control over original RAT
- Compact size
- Also great for crushing bass tones
- Filter might confuse people unfamiliar with RAT controls
- Small switches may be hard to toggle live
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he Ratsbane offers Level, Filter, and Distortion controls. The Level knob adjusts the output volume, the Filter knob shapes the tone by cutting high frequencies, and the Distortion knob controls the amount of gain. It also features a clipping switch for additional tonal options.
Inspired by the classic RAT distortion, the Ratsbane offers modern enhancements such as true bypass switching and a wide range of gain settings. The clipping switch provides additional tonal flexibility, making it one of the top-rated overdrive pedals.
Users rave about the Ratsbane’s ability to capture the essence of the original RAT while providing improved clarity and responsiveness. It’s praised for its versatility and sound quality.
The Ratsbane is a beast. It delivers everything from light overdrive to heavy distortion with ease. The true bypass ensures your tone remains pure when the pedal is off. It’s great for players who love the classic RAT sound but want modern reliability and versatility. The Wampler Ratsbane is a top choice for those seeking a high-quality, flexible pedal that excels in both studio and live settings.
- Controls: Volume, Distortion, Filter rotary, plus 3 way Gain switch and 2 way Voice switch
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V-18V DC power supply (no battery connector inside)
Truetone V3 Jekyll and Hyde Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
Ideal for guitarists who want two distinct channels in one pedal, offering both overdrive and distortion. It’s great for live performances where quick tone changes are necessary.
Pros:
- Transparent and silky drive
- Aggressive distortion
- Incredibly versatile
- Both sides interact with each other very well
- Difficult to fine-tune, especially for beginners
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The V3 Jekyll and Hyde features two independent channels with separate controls. The Overdrive channel is based on a classic 90s Nobels ODR-1 (Jekyll), and has Volume, Tone, and Drive knobs, while the Distortion channel (Hyde) offers Volume, Tone, Mid, and Distortion knobs. The pedal also includes a Noise Gate switch to reduce unwanted noise.
The V3 Jekyll and Hyde combines two pedals in one, allowing you to use overdrive, distortion, or both simultaneously. Despite having a complicated circuit, it has quiet operation even at higher gain settings for both, making it one of the best overdrive distortion combo pedals.
Users love the dual functionality and the ability to stack the effects. It’s often highlighted for its robust construction and the quality of its overdrive and distortion tones.
The V3 Jekyll and Hyde is a versatile powerhouse. Its dual-channel design offers incredible flexibility, making it easy to find the perfect sound for any style. It’s ideal for players who need both overdrive and distortion in one pedal and want high-quality tones for various genres.
Those in the know about the true nature of each side of the pedal will find a great appreciation of how Truetone carries over their tonal legacy. The Truetone V3 Jekyll and Hyde is a versatile solution for those looking to simplify their setup without compromising on sound.
- Controls: Drive, Tone, Volume, Hi-Gain, Treble, Bass, Mid, Bright, Voice
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 2 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately), 9V Battery
Best Overdrive and Distortion Pedals Under $300
Revv G3 Preamp/Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
This pedal is perfect for players who are into heavier music genres like metal. It offers high-gain distortion with a built-in preamp, making it a versatile tool for modern rock and metal tones.
Pros:
- Does heavy blues to metal flawlessly
- Aggression switch adds tweakability
- Clarity even in high gain
- Durable enclosure
- Better for modern metal than old school, doom tones
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The Revv G3 offers Gain, Volume, Three-Band EQ (Bass, Middle, Treble), and Aggression Mode switch with three settings (Blue, Red, Off) to adjust the intensity of the distortion. The pedal also includes a built-in preamp, allowing it to be used directly into a power amp or interface.
The G3 is essentially a preamp in a box, offering incredible tonal shaping capabilities. Its aggression modes and three-band EQ provide a wide range of gain and tone options, making it one of the best overdrive distortion combo pedals.
Players are impressed with the G3’s versatility and tonal quality. It’s often praised for its ability to deliver everything from subtle overdrive to massive distortion, making it a favorite among metal and hard rock guitarists.
The G3 excels in performance. Its preamp capabilities set it apart from other pedals, providing a level of control and sound quality that’s hard to beat It’s perfect for professional musicians and serious hobbyists who need a versatile, high-quality preamp/overdrive/distortion pedal. The Revv G3 is an excellent choice for those looking to achieve a polished, high-gain sound in both live and studio environments. Among the best overdrive and distortion pedals under $300, the Revv G3 is a standout.
- Controls: Bass, Mid, Treble, Volume, Aggression, Gain
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 0.8 lbs.
Best Overdrive and Distortion Combo Pedal Above $300
JHS Sweet Tea V3 Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
For those who seek premium quality and tonal flexibility, the JHS Sweet Tea V3 stands out as a top-tier choice. It’s ideal for professional musicians or serious hobbyists looking for a pedal that can handle everything from mild overdrive to intense distortion.
Pros:
- Massive gain and tonal range
- Classic TS + High gain Marshall tones
- Clean knobs allows dry signal through
- Not the best for tight, modern metal
- Wide range and tweakability also means some settings will sound bad
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The Sweet Tea V3 features two independent channels with separate controls. The Angry Charlie channel has Volume, Drive, and EQ knobs (Bass, Middle, Treble), while the Moonshine V2 channel offers Volume, Drive, and Tone knobs. It also includes a toggle switch for different clipping options.
This dual-channel pedal combines the Angry Charlie distortion and the Moonshine V2 overdrive in one unit. It offers a wide range of tonal options, from smooth overdrive to aggressive distortion, and includes versatile clipping options for further tonal customization.
Users are consistently impressed with the Sweet Tea V3’s sound quality and versatility. It’s often described as two pedals in one, providing exceptional value despite the higher price tag.
The JHS Sweet Tea V3 is perfect for those who want a premium pedal that offers a wide range of tones and superior build quality.
The Sweet Tea V3 is a top-tier pedal. Its dual-channel design and high-quality components ensure excellent performance and usability, making it a standout in any setup. It’s best for professional musicians and serious enthusiasts who demand the best in overdrive and distortion. As one of the best overdrive and distortion pedals on the market for low to midrange tones, it’s a worthy investment for any serious guitarist.
- Controls: Left Side – Angry Chalie V3 (Volume, Drive, Bass, Mids, Treble), Right Side – Moonshine V2 (Volume, Drive, Tone, Blend), Order Toggle
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Outputs: 1 x 1/4″
- Power: 9V DC power supply (sold separately)
- Weight: 0.8lbs
Conclusion
There you have it – some of the best overdrive and distortion pedals across various price ranges. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re a seasoned pro, there’s a pedal here for you. Remember, the best pedal is the one that fits your playing style and musical needs.
Things to Consider When Choosing an Overdrive/Distortion Pedal
When selecting an overdrive or distortion pedal, consider the following:
Sound Quality and Tone:
Ensure the pedal matches your desired sound. Look for the best overdrive pedal or the best overdrive distortion guitar pedal that suits your style. The sound quality and tone of a pedal are crucial as they define how well it can replicate the warmth of an overdrive or the grit of a distortion. The best guitar overdrive pedals offer a clear and responsive tone that enhances your playing.
Versatility and Flexibility:
Look for pedals that offer a range of tones and features. An overdrive distortion combo pedal can provide great versatility, allowing you to switch between or blend different effects. Pedals that offer multiple settings and tone-shaping options are invaluable for players who perform a variety of music genres.
Build Quality and Durability:
Choose a pedal that can withstand regular use. The best overdrive guitar pedals are built to last, ensuring they can handle the rigors of gigging and frequent practice sessions. Look for pedals with sturdy construction and reliable components.
Price and Value for Money:
Find a pedal that offers great performance at a reasonable price. While high-end pedals often provide superior sound and features, many good overdrive pedals offer excellent value and performance without breaking the bank. Consider what features are most important to you and choose a pedal that meets those needs within your budget.
Best Overdrive and Distortion Pedals Selection Methodology
The first edition was published on August 18, 2024.
To compile our list of the best overdrive and distortion combo pedals, we focused specifically on pedals that offer both effects in a single unit. While there are numerous guitar effects, distortion, and fuzz pedals available, our criteria are centered on those that are clearly designed for both overdrive and distortion use.
We began our selection process by filtering pedals available from major American retailers, ensuring they are easily accessible for most players. From this broad pool, we shortlisted 15 pedals that provide a blend of overdrive and distortion effects.
To evaluate these pedals, we analyzed over 6,600 reviews and ratings, applying the Gearank Algorithm to generate scores out of 100 for each pedal. This rigorous approach allowed us to objectively rank the pedals based on user experiences and overall performance.
Finally, we divided our top recommendations into four price categories: “Under $100,” “Under $200,” “Under $300,” and “Above $400.” This approach ensures that we offer the best options for a wide range of budgets. For more details on how we arrived at these rankings, please refer to 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
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers
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