10 Best Noise Gate Pedals 2026 in the United States

The Donner Noise Gate Pedal is a compact and affordable option for electric guitar and bass players looking to reduce unwanted noise. It offers a noise reduction range from -70 to +10 dB and includes two modes: Hard, for quick and strong noise suppression, and Soft, for smoother, gentler noise reduction. This flexibility helps maintain your instrument's natural sound while cutting out hiss and hum. The pedal features true bypass, meaning it won’t affect your tone when it's off, which is great for preserving sound quality. Its fast noise detection and smooth attack/release controls help keep your playing clear without cutting off your notes abruptly.

The pedal runs on a standard 9V power supply, though the adapter is not included, so you’ll need to purchase one separately. The input/output setup uses standard 1/4-inch jacks, making it straightforward and compatible with most setups. The pedal’s build is compact and fairly lightweight, making it easy to fit on most pedalboards. It does not have detailed control knobs for threshold or decay, which means it offers a simpler user interface compared to some higher-end pedals.

For those seeking a simple and effective noise gate that doesn’t complicate the signal chain, the Donner Noise Killer performs well, particularly considering its positive user reviews and overall value for money.

The Boss NS-1X Noise Suppressor Pedal is designed for guitarists and bassists looking to reduce unwanted noise and maintain a clean sound. One of its standout features is the three modes of noise suppression, which give users flexibility depending on their playing style and environment. The Threshold, Decay, and Damp knobs allow for precise control over how the pedal responds, making it adaptable for different setups. The inclusion of a Suppression Indicator is a nice touch, providing visual feedback on its performance. Additionally, the Send/Return loop is a valuable feature for those wanting to integrate additional effects in their signal chain.

On the downside, the NS-1X might not be as user-friendly for beginners. While it offers a lot of control, the range of settings could be overwhelming for someone who is new to noise suppression technology. Furthermore, being corded electric might limit some users who prefer battery-operated options for portability. The true bypass feature is a plus, ensuring no signal loss when the pedal is off, but it does require a power source, which can complicate setups for those who may not have adequate power supply readily available.

Weighing in at 1.26 pounds and compact in size, the Boss NS-1X is relatively easy to incorporate into most pedalboards. Potential buyers should consider their level of experience and how the pedal's features align with their specific needs in order to make the most of its capabilities.

The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor Pedal is designed to cater to guitarists and bassists looking to eliminate unwanted noise and hum from their setups, which helps in achieving a cleaner sound during performances or recordings. One of the standout features of this pedal is its unique noise detection circuit that effectively preserves the natural attack and envelope of your instrument. This means that while it suppresses noise, it doesn’t compromise the integrity of your sound, which is a significant plus for musicians who want their tone to remain authentic.

The pedal includes Threshold and Decay knobs, allowing users to customize the level of noise suppression according to their preferences and specific situations. This flexibility is essential for different playing styles and environments, making it suitable for a variety of users, from hobbyists to professional musicians.

In terms of build quality, the compact design makes it easy to fit into pedalboards, and it's built by BOSS, a well-respected name in the music industry, which adds to its reliability. The true bypass feature ensures that when the pedal is not in use, it won't affect your tone, preserving the original sound of your instrument. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider. While the NS-2 is effective at reducing noise, some users may find it less effective with certain setups, particularly with more complex signal chains. Additionally, being corded electric, it requires access to a power source, which might limit its portability compared to battery-operated options.