The 25 Best Overdrive Pedals You Can Get In 2024

Having an overdrive pedal is a must for many guitar players. It can be an essential piece of equipment, and it will have a huge impact on shaping the sound of your instrument. And these are just a few reasons why you will need to go for the best pedal you can find. 

Naturally, saying that some pedal is the best is highly subjective. But there is no denying that there are excellent options. Here, I will go through some of the best options you can find on the market, and it will help you determine which one is right for you. 

Furthermore, since we are talking about the best gear you can find, some of these overdrive pedals can be quite pricey. But they are worth it. 

Strymon Sunset Dual Overdrive

• Dual Overdrive
• True Bypass
• LED
• Six knobs: two Level, two Tone, and two Drive knobs
• Switches: GE/Texas/Treble, 2stage/Hard/JFET, Configure and Bright
• 4.49 x 4.02 x 1.73 inches (11.4 x 10.2 x 4.4 centimeters) 
• Red
• 9V DC

While Strymon is not the most famous brand you could find, the Sunset Dual Overdrive is a pedal you need to check out. As you can guess from the name, it has two channels, and it is quite good. 

The pedal is a combination of digital and analog effects, it has different modes you can use, and it has an input for the expression pedal. The Sunset Dual Overdrive also gives you an option to create your own presets and store them in the memory. 

Jackson Audio Optimist Classic Overdrive Pedal

• Audio Optimist
• LED
• Six knobs: two Level, two Tone, and two Gain knobs
• 2.7 x 4.875 inches (6.86 x 12.38 centimeters) 
• Blue
• 9V DC

If you are unsure of the pedal you want to get, the Audio Optimist is one of the most versatile overdrives you can find on the market. It has two channels, 3-band EQ, and two different modes you can use. 

The pedal is simple, and there are no switches on it. The only thing you will get is knobs to adjust the sound. What is even more impressive is that this model offers a MIDI control, and it sounds amazing. Keep in mind that you will need a MIDI cable to use this function. 

EarthQuaker Devices Plumes

• Plumes
• LED
• Three knobs: Level, Tone, and Gain
• Mode switch
• 6 x 3 x 3 inches (15.24 x 7.62 x 7.62 centimeters) 
• Yellow and green
• 9V DC

EarthQuaker Devices is a rather young company, and it started working in 2004. Over the years, the brand became one of the most popular ones when it comes to pedals, and it offers numerous unique and exciting models you can check out. And Plumes is just one of them. 

This is an overdrive pedal with a direct approach. You have one footswitch to turn it on or off, and three knobs to adjust the sound. You can also use one of the three available modes using the switch at the top of the pedal. The sound is quite good, and it gives you plenty of options to create the sound you will enjoy. 

JHS Pedals Bonsai 

• Bonsai
• LED
• Four knobs: Volume, Tone, Drive, and mod
• 6 x 3 x 3 inches (15.24 x 7.62 x 7.62 centimeters) 
• Green
• 9V DC

JHS Pedals is a company that comes from the heart of the U.S. It is based in Kansas, and it has a wonderful repertoire you need to see. JHS Bonsai is a simple pedal that offers incredible tones. You can adjust the sound using three knobs for volume, tone, and drive, and there is an additional rotary knob for choosing modes. 

This will allow you to get one of nine popular variations including classic, vintage, and rare. To use the pedal, all you need to do is select the mod you like, adjust the tone, and hit the footswitch. 

MXR M77 Custom Badass Modified O.D.

• Modified O.D.
• LED
• Four knobs: Output, Tone, 100 Hz, and Gain
• 5.5 x 4.4 x 2.6 inches (13.97 x 11.18 x 6.6 centimeters) 
• Gold
• True Bypass
• 9V DC

MXR has been a go-to brand for many guitarists, and now, they can check out the Modified O.D. The idea behind this pedal is quite simple. Take the original classic pedal, and improve it with new equipment and technology. And it is a perfect blend of traditional and modern. 

The pedal has standard knobs for output, tone, and gain, and you get an extra one for versatility. Playing with the 100 Hz potentiometer will give you plenty of different sounds to use, and it is an incredible addition to the pedal. You can use MXR M77 with a 9V battery or a standard adapter. 

Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer

• Tube Screamer
• LED
• Three knobs: Drive, Tone, and Level
• 5.3 x 3 x 2.4 inches (13.46 x 7.62 x 6.1 centimeters) 
• Green
• 9V DC

If you want to get a classic sound, there is no better option than Ibanez Tube Screamer. The pedal has been around for quite some time, and it is one of the most popular effects you can find. It is a pedal used by many iconic musicians such as Stevie Ray Vaughan, John Mayer, Bonamassa, Buddy Guy, and countless others. 

Of course, this is the new version with updated electronics and design. The pedal is easy to use, and there is a huge footswitch on the bottom you can’t miss. Once you start playing with it, you will notice how incredible it is, as well as all the sounds you can make. 

Wampler Tumnus Overdrive

• Tumnus Overdrive
• LED
• Three knobs: Gain, Treble, and Volume
• 7 x 4 x 7 inches (17.78 x 10.16 x 17.78 centimeters) 
• Gold
• 9V DC

The company was founded by Brian Wampler, and it didn’t take it too long to become a hit. What Wampler offers is unique pedals with beautiful designs. And a perfect example is Tumnus Overdrive. The pedal works on a 9V DC power source, which means that you can use batteries or adapters. 

When it comes to sound, Tumnus Overdrive can be quite versatile, and it works with different genres and playstyles. There are three main knobs you can use to adjust gain, treble, and volume, and it is compact. You won’t have any problems fitting it on your pedalboard. 

MXR Timmy

• Timmy
• LED
• Four knobs: Bass, Gain, Treble, and Volume
• Clip switch
• 5.51 x 4.52 x 2.55 inches (14 x 11.5 x 6.5 centimeters) 
• Blue
• 9V DC

This mini MXR pedal is named Timmy, and it was designed by Paul Cochrane. It is a model from the custom shop series, and thanks to four knobs, you’ll be able to shape the sound as you please. As for the design of the pedal, it’s pretty much straightforward. 

There are four knobs, an LED indicator, and a single switch. The switch gives you an option to choose between three different clipping styles, which only improves the versatility of the pedal. And compared to some of the pedals on the list, the price is on the lower side. 

Boss OD-3 

• OD-3
• LED
• Three knobs: Level, Tone, and Drive
• Durable
• 2.87 x 5.08 x 2.32 inches (7.3 x 12.9 x 5.9 centimeters) 
• Yellow
• 9V DC

For years, Boss has been one of the biggest names when it comes to guitar pedals, and you can find a model for any effect you can imagine. All pedals share similar features and designs, and the OD-3 is no different. The pedal is durable and sturdy, and it sounds quite good. 

There are three knobs on top of it to adjust level, tone, and drive, and the pedal is easy to use. Boss OD-3 is versatile, offers plenty of different options for the tone settings, and the price is reasonable. And these are all reasons why so many people love Boss pedals. 

MXR EVH 5150

• EVH
• LED
• Five knobs: Output, Bass, Mid, Treble, and Gain
• Durable
• Boost and gate buttons
• 3.75 x 5 x 1.5 inches (9.53 x 12.7 x 3.81 centimeters) 
• Black with stripes
• 9V DC

MXR offers numerous different pedals, and if you are looking for an incredible one, you should check EVH 5150. As you can guess from the name, the pedal is designed for Eddie Van Halen, and it means that you will get a beautiful and heavy sound. 

But at the same time, the pedal is more than versatile. You can use it for numerous different genres and play around with the settings. It has a full 3-band EQ, and additional buttons to control boost and gate. And as with almost any other piece of Van Halen’s gear, there are famous straps on the pedal as well. 

J Rockett Audio Designs .45

• .45 Series
• LED
• Four knobs: Loud, Gain, Treble, and Bass
• Durable
• 7 x 3 x 5 inches (17.78 x 7.62 x 12.7 centimeters) 
• Gold
• 9V DC

J. Rockett Audio Designs is a company from the U.S., and it has a couple of exciting effects you will need to see. One of the examples on the list is from the .45 series, and it’s quite good. It is a recreation of the 1962 JTM sound, and it is an overdrive pedal. 

There are four main knobs on it you can use, and they are marked as loud, gain, treble, and bass. The pedal is perfect for anyone looking to recreate that famous Pete Townshend sound during his the Who career. But even if you are not a fan, the pedal is still worth checking out. 

Boss BD-2

• BD-2
• LED
• Three knobs: Level, Tone, and Gain
• Durable
• 5.91 x 3.15 x 3.54 inches (15 x 8 x 9 centimeters) 
• Blue
• 9V DC

If you like the type of pedals Boss offers, you can also check out BD-2. This pedal is Blues Driver, and it makes a beautiful sound. Naturally, it is not something you would pick for heavier genres like metal, but it works more than good for blues and rock. 

The pedal has a standard Boss design with a durable casing made of metal and three knobs. These will allow you to adjust level, tone, and gain. BD-2 is pretty straightforward, and it’s easy to use. So, you won’t have any problems adjusting the sound and finding something you will enjoy.

JHS Pedals 3

• Series 3
• LED
• Three knobs: Volume, Body, and Drive
• Gain switch
• Durable
• 4 x 3 x 2 inches (10.16 x 7.62 x 5.08 centimeters) 
• White
• 9V DC

Series 3 is one of the most popular series by JHS. It offers several different effects, and the quality is incredible. This, of course, includes an overdrive pedal as well. JHS Series 3 Overdrive looks smooth and compact. The casing is durable, and the pedal is easy to use. 

You will get three knobs at the top of the pedal, and they are used to control volume, body, and drive. You can also use the switch to adjust gain, and the sound is quite versatile. You won’t have any problems navigating the pedal, and there are plenty of options to further shape the sound. 

Fender Santa Ana Overdrive

• Santa Ana
• LED
• Six knobs: Bass, Middle, Treble, Pres., Level, and Drive
• Voice switch
• Two footswitches
• Durable
• 5.45 x 4.85 x 3.25 inches (13.84 x 12.32 x 8.26 centimeters) 
• Red
• 9V DC

Fender has been one of the biggest names when it comes to music equipment for decades. Everyone has heard of Stratocaster and Telecaster guitars, as well as incredible amps such as Twin Reverb and countless others. But one of the newest additions to the collection is pedals. 

Santa Ana Overdrive has a powerful sound, and plenty of different options to shape it. Needless to say, it works best if you have a Fender amp, but you can use it on anything else. The pedal is versatile, durable, and sounds amazing. 

TC Electronic MojoMojo

• MojoMojo
• LED
• Four knobs: Drive, Level, Bass, and Treble
• Voice switch
• Durable
• 5 x 3 x 4 inches (12.7 x 7.62 x 10.16 centimeters) 
• Brown
• True Bypass
• 9V DC

TC Electronic is another company that offers interesting pedals. And of course, you can find an overdrive effect as well. MojoMojo has four potentiometers to adjust drive, level, bass, and treble. It is also equipped with a voice switch, as well as the true bypass. 

MojoMojo is a versatile pedal, and the sound is perfect for blues and rock. Of course, you can explore different genres, but the pedal truly shines with these two. 

Harby Centauri 

• Centauri
• LED
• Three knobs: Volume, Drive, and Tone
• Durable
• 5.67 x 3.39 x 3.39 inches (14.4 x 8.61 x 8.61 centimeters) 
• Cream
• 9V DC

If you are interested in something a bit different, Harby Centauri might be just the thing for you. The pedal was made in the U.S., and it looks quite simple. But the sound coming out of it is incredible. 

Harby Centauri has three knobs, and using it is more than easy. But at the same time, it gives you enough options to make the sound versatile and unique. The pedal is designed as a tribute to the famous Klon Centaur, but with modernized electronics. 

Friedman BE-OD

• BE-OD
• LED
• Six knobs: Bass, Treble, Pres, Vol, Gain, and Tight
• Durable
• 2.5 x 4.75 x 2.25 inches (6.35 x 12.07 x 5.72 centimeters) 
• Black and gold
• 9V DC

The person behind the Friedman brand is none other than Dave Friedman. He was the man that shaped Eddie Van Halen’s tone, and he is focused on modding and repairing amplifiers. Additionally, Friedman offers a couple of interesting pedals you can check out, and one of them is BE-OD. 

The first thing you will notice is that there are six knobs which give you plenty of customization options. But at the same time, the pedal has a standard size, and it won’t take you extra space on the pedalboard. 

EarthQuaker Devices Special Cranker

• Special Cranker
• LED
• Three knobs: Level, Tone, and More
• Mode switch
• Durable
• 8.1 x 6.3 x 4.8 inches (20.57 x 16 x 12.19 centimeters) 
• Orange
• 9V DC

For those that enjoy what EarthQuaker Devices has to offer, Special Cranker is another pedal they can check out. There are a couple of interesting features you will find on this pedal. Firstly, there is a switch where you can choose between Germanium or Silicon diodes. 

If you enjoy vintage design, you should know that Special Cranker has vintage knobs you can find on tube amps. And these chicken knobs look amazing on the pedal. 

Walrus Audio Warhorn

• Warhorn
• LED
• Four knobs: Level, Drive, Bass, and Treble
• Switch
• Durable
• 6 x 4 x 3 inches (15.24 x 10.16 x 7.62 centimeters) 
• Prismatic Gold with a drawing
• 9V DC

Walrus is another great brand that focuses on unique pedals and effects. The model here is Warhorn, and it is a highly versatile pedal you can use. It allows you to create a broad range of sounds varying from rhythm to Texas blues, and it’s quite easy to use. 

It also has a switch in the middle that allows you to pick between two clipping options based on what you are trying to achieve. And one thing that many players will like is the design. It has the beautiful art of a hand holding a warhorn, with spears and flags in the background. 

Wampler Euphoria V2

• Euphoria
• LED
• Four knobs: Tone, Volume, Bass, and Gain
• Switch
• Durable
• 7 x 4 x 7 inches (17.78 x 10.16 x 17.78 centimeters) 
• Green
• 9V DC

Euphoria can be a real treat for players looking for a versatile pedal. It allows you to go from almost clean tones to fat ones with a lot of warmth. At the same time, the pedal is easy to use, and there are only four knobs and a switch on it. 

The switch is used to choose between smooth, open, and crunch modes, which only improves the versatility even further. This means that there are three separate gain stages you can use, and pick which type of overdrive suits you the best. 

JHS Pedals Double Barrel V4

• Double Barrel
• LED
• Seven knobs: Volume, Drive, Tone, Volume, Drive, Tone, and Clean 
• Three switches
• Durable
• 4.33 x 4.92 x 1.97 inches (11 x 12.5 x 5 centimeters) 
• True Bypass
• Cream
• 9V DC

Double Barrel combines two circuits from JHS, and these are Moonshine V2 and Morning Glory. And if you were looking for a two-in-one pedal, this is it. There are two sets of knobs to control each of the drives, and you can use the circuits either simultaneously or one at a time. 

The first switch allows you to choose which of the effects you want to use, and there are separate switches for each of the circuits. Needless to say, the pedal is highly versatile and the sound is excellent. 

Hamstead Soundworks Odyssey Intergalactic Drive

• Odyssey Intergalactic Drive
• LED
• Five knobs: Tone, Bass, Treble, Gain, and Level 
• Three switches
• Durable
• 2.76 x 5.12 x 2.56 inches (7 x 13 x 6.5 centimeters) 
• True Bypass
• Silver
• 9V DC

Hamstead Soundworks made an exciting effect called Odyssey Intergalactic Drive, and it is a combination of boost, overdrive, and distortion. It is a powerful tool that will only increase the flexibility of your instrument. 

There are five knobs on it for tone, bass, gain, treble, and level, and you can use three sets of switches. The first one is in charge of EQ, allowing you to select between pre and post EQ. The second one is for choosing between three clipping modes, and the last one is for boost gain. 

Strymon Sunset Dual Overdrive

• Sunset Dual Overdrive
• LED
• Six knobs: Two level, drive, and tone knobs 
• Two switches
• Durable
• 4.49 x 4.02 x 1.73 inches (11.4 x 10.2 x 4.4 centimeters) 
• True Bypass
• Red
• 9V DC

This hybrid overdrive is a combination of analog and digital effects, and it offers two different modes. There are also two sets of controls for you to adjust mode A or B, and you can even store presets if you have a Midi-exp cable (which is not included in the package). 

The pedal is on the larger side having two footswitches, it has an expression pedal input, and switches to adjust the mod or stage. All things considered, it is a versatile pedal worth checking out. 

J Rockett  Audio Designs The Dude

• The Dude
• LED
• Four knobs: Level, Ratio, Treble, and Deep
• Durable
• 2.32 x 4.02 x 2.17 inches (5.9 x 10.2 x 5.5 centimeters) 
• True Bypass
• Black
• 9V DC

One of the first things you will notice is that the pedal is quite vintage-looking. It is inspired by old technology you could find on early computers and systems. This overdrive provides a classic D-style ODS sound, and using it can be quite fun. 

As with any other J Rockett pedals, this one too is made in the United States, and the design is incredible. What many players might enjoy is the simplicity behind it, and how easy it is to adjust the sound and find something you will enjoy. 

Electro Harmonix Soul Food

• Soul Dude
• LED
• Three knobs: Volume, Drive, and Treble
• Durable
• 2.76 x 4.53 x 2.24 inches (7 x 11.5 x 5.7 centimeters) 
• Silver and yellow
• 9V DC

Electro Harmonix is another exciting brand that strives toward something new and unique. The Soul Dude pedal is bright, it’s transparent, and it can be a great clean boost. The design of the effect is quite simple, and there are three knobs to control volume, treble, and drive. 

If you are looking for a pedal that will give you a small boost on the clean channel, this might be it. But at the same time, the pedal can give you a nice drive that will work great for blues and rock. 

Conclusion

Finding a perfect pedal is never easy. There are plenty of different effects you can find, especially if you are looking for something as common as overdrive. But this only means that you will get to choose between many different and unique brands. 

So, the main question you should ask yourself is what type of effect are you trying to find? Are you interested in a small boost that will work on your clean channel? Or you would rather have a fat boost that will be perfect for hard rock? 

Fortunately, you can find any possible option you can imagine, as well as versatile pedals that can cover almost all genres and sounds.

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Last update on 2024-11-21 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API