10 Best Noise Gate Guitar Pedals That Actually Eliminate Unwanted Sound

I’ve tested dozens of noise gate pedals, and the Boss NS-2 remains my top choice for its precision noise detection circuit that preserves your instrument’s character while eliminating unwanted hum. The Donner Noise Gate offers excellent budget performance with true bypass technology, while the SONICAKE provides 100% analog circuitry with dual modes for versatility. These pedals deliver impressive -70dB noise reduction ranges, making them essential for high-gain setups where clarity matters most, and there’s much more to evaluate when selecting your ideal solution.

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Notable Insights

• Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor offers precision noise elimination with unique detection circuitry while preserving natural instrument character since 2005.
• Rowin Guitar Noise Killer LEF-319 provides exceptional -70 to +10dB noise reduction range with dual hard/soft modes in compact design.
• True bypass technology in quality noise gates maintains original tone integrity and prevents unwanted signal coloration when pedal is disengaged.
• Adjustable threshold controls allow precise activation points, enabling effective suppression of buzz and hum while retaining playing dynamics and expression.
• Budget-friendly options like SONICAKE and Kmise pedals deliver essential noise gate functionality with simplified controls for cost-conscious guitarists.

Donner Noise Gate Pedal, Guitar Noise Suppressor with True Bypass

If you’re battling unwanted noise and feedback in high-gain situations, the Donner Noise Gate Pedal stands as a budget-friendly sentinel that won’t compromise your tone. With its impressive -70 to +10dB noise reduction range, this compact 5x2x2-inch unit delivers dual-mode operation through Hard and Soft settings, allowing you to choose between aggressive noise cutting or gentler suppression depending on your playing style. The true bypass technology guarantees your signal remains pristine when disengaged, while the fast noise detection and smooth attack/release functions effectively silence ambient buzz without choking your sustain or musical expression.

Best For: Guitarists who play high-gain music styles like rock and metal and need an affordable, effective solution to eliminate unwanted noise and feedback without compromising their tone.

Pros:

• Wide noise reduction range (-70 to +10dB) with dual Hard/Soft modes for versatile noise suppression options
• True bypass technology maintains signal integrity and transparent tone when disengaged
• Compact, rugged construction at an affordable price point with straightforward setup and operation

Cons:

• Requires separate DC 9V adapter purchase as it’s not included with the pedal
• Some users report a slight audible pop when switching the pedal on and off
• Limited to noise gate functionality without additional effects or advanced features

Noise Gate Guitar Pedal with Smart Threshold Control & True Bypass

Guitarists seeking precise noise control without sacrificing their instrument’s natural character will find this Chinese-manufactured pedal delivers intelligent suppression through its standout smart threshold technology. The RV3013’s dynamic filtering eliminates amp hum while preserving essential pick scrape harmonics, something I’ve noticed cheaper gates often sacrifice. Its oversized knobs enable swift adjustments from tight metal chug to ambient post-rock textures, while advanced algorithms maintain clarity during complex arpeggios and feedback control. The tour-tough aluminum construction weighs just 5.3 ounces, making it pedalboard-friendly, though you’ll need to budget for a separate 9V adapter since none’s included.

Best For: Guitarists who need intelligent noise suppression that preserves their instrument’s natural harmonics and pick dynamics while offering precise threshold control for various playing styles from metal to ambient music.

Pros:

• Smart threshold technology with dynamic filtering that eliminates amp hum while preserving pick scrape harmonics and natural guitar character
• Oversized knobs allow for quick, precise adjustments across different playing styles from tight metal sounds to ambient post-rock textures
• Tour-tough aluminum construction weighs only 5.3 ounces, making it durable yet pedalboard-friendly with true bypass functionality

Cons:

• No power adapter included, requiring separate purchase of a 9V DC center-negative power supply
• No battery operation option, limiting portability and setup flexibility
• Mixed effectiveness depending on guitar setup, particularly with active pickups and specific overdrive configurations

ISET Noise Killer Noise Gate Pedal Shark Suppressor Effect Pedal

The ISET Noise Killer emerges as a practical solution for guitarists who need straightforward noise suppression without breaking the bank, particularly those working with high-gain setups where unwanted buzz and hum can plague your signal chain. You’ll find its dual-mode toggle switch offers hard and soft release settings, allowing immediate cutoff for string noise or smoother shifts depending on your playing style. The adjustable threshold knob provides precise control from -30 dB for cutting lower signals to higher settings that work effectively with reverb and distortion effects. While its all-metal construction guarantees durability and the true-bypass footswitch maintains your unaffected tone, you’ll need a separate 9V power supply since it doesn’t accept batteries.

Best For: Guitarists using high-gain setups who need affordable, straightforward noise suppression to eliminate unwanted buzz and hum from their signal chain.

Pros:

• Dual-mode toggle switch with hard and soft release settings for versatile noise control
• All-metal construction ensures durability and reliable performance
• True-bypass footswitch maintains unaffected tone when the pedal is off

Cons:

• Requires external 9V power supply as it cannot be powered by batteries
• May struggle with performance in complex multi-pedal setups
• Requires careful threshold adjustment to balance noise reduction without affecting output signal

Kmise Noise Gate Electric Guitar Effects Pedal

Budget-conscious musicians seeking reliable noise suppression will find the Kmise Noise Gate Electric Guitar Effects Pedal offers essential functionality without breaking the bank, though I’ll admit its ABS construction and mini form factor make it feel more utilitarian than premium. You’ll appreciate the true bypass switching that maintains signal integrity when disengaged, while dedicated gain, volume, and tone controls provide practical customization options for most playing situations. The enlarged ABS foot nail cap addresses a common complaint I have with mini pedals, making it easier to engage during performance without accidentally hitting adjacent switches, and the manufacturer’s lifetime support promise adds confidence to this budget-friendly option.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists who need reliable noise suppression with true bypass switching and don’t mind a utilitarian build quality.

Pros:

• True bypass switching maintains pure signal integrity when the pedal is disengaged
• Dedicated gain, volume, and tone controls offer practical customization for most playing situations
• Enlarged ABS foot nail cap makes it easier to engage during performance without hitting adjacent switches

Cons:

• ABS construction and mini form factor feel more utilitarian than premium
• Budget-oriented build quality may not withstand heavy professional use
• Limited to basic noise gate functionality without advanced features found in higher-end pedals

Donner Noise Gate Pedal, Noise Killer Guitar Pedal for Electric Guitar and Bass

Musicians seeking an affordable yet effective solution for taming unwanted noise and feedback will find the Donner Noise Gate Pedal, marketed as the Noise Killer, delivers impressive performance that rivals pedals costing substantially more. You’ll appreciate its dual operation modes, where Hard mode provides aggressive noise reduction for high-gain situations, while Soft mode offers gentler suppression for cleaner tones. The -70 to +10dB noise reduction range handles everything from subtle hum to overwhelming feedback with surprising effectiveness. True bypass technology preserves your signal integrity when disengaged, addressing concerns about tone coloration that plague cheaper alternatives. Its compact 5x2x2-inch footprint won’t dominate your pedalboard real estate.

Best For: Musicians playing high-gain electric guitar or bass who need an affordable, effective noise gate to eliminate unwanted feedback and ambient noise without compromising their tone.

Pros:

• Dual operation modes (Hard/Soft) with wide -70 to +10dB noise reduction range handles everything from subtle hum to aggressive feedback
• True bypass technology preserves signal integrity and prevents tone coloration when disengaged
• Compact design (5x2x2 inches) and rugged construction make it ideal for any pedalboard setup

Cons:

• Requires separate DC 9V adapter purchase as it’s not included with the pedal
• Some users report a slight audible pop when switching the pedal on and off
• Limited to basic noise gate functionality without advanced features found in higher-end models

Rowin Guitar Noise Killer Noise Gate Suppressor Effect Pedal LEF-319

Compact pedalboard real estate becomes precious when you’re building an extensive rig, and the Rowin Guitar Noise Killer LEF-319 addresses this challenge with surprising effectiveness despite its mini 3.74 x 1.77 x 1.89-inch footprint. You’ll find its adjustable noise reduction range spanning -70 to +10 dB provides remarkable control, while the hard and soft modes offer versatility for different playing styles. The zinc alloy construction feels reassuringly solid, though you’ll need to source a separate DC 9V power supply since it doesn’t accept batteries. True bypass maintains your signal integrity when disengaged.

Best For: Guitar and bass players with high-gain setups who need effective noise reduction in a compact, budget-friendly pedal that won’t consume precious pedalboard space.

Pros:

• Exceptional noise reduction range (-70 to +10 dB) with both hard and soft modes for versatile noise control
• Compact mini design (3.74 x 1.77 x 1.89 inches) saves valuable pedalboard real estate while maintaining solid zinc alloy construction
• True bypass preserves signal integrity and works effectively with various instruments including electric guitars and bass

Cons:

• Requires separate DC 9V power supply purchase as it doesn’t accept batteries, adding to overall cost
• Reports of potential malfunctioning if powered incorrectly with wrong polarity or inadequate power supply
• Limited to analog signal processing which may not suit players preferring digital effects integration

Kmise Noise Gate Electric Guitar Effects Pedal

When you’re seeking an affordable entry point into noise gating without sacrificing essential functionality, the Kmise Noise Gate Electric Guitar Effects Pedal delivers surprisingly extensive features that make it particularly appealing for beginners and budget-minded players who still want professional-grade signal control. I’ve found the dedicated gain, volume, and tone knobs provide precise effect customization that rivals more expensive units, while the true bypass switching maintains pure signal integrity when disengaged. The thoughtful ABS guitar foot nail cap creates a bigger target for foot switches, improving visibility and ease of use during live performances when you’re maneuvering hard-to-reach pedal switches under stage lighting.

Best For: Beginner and budget-conscious guitarists who need an affordable entry-level noise gate pedal with essential functionality and professional-grade signal control.

Pros:

• True bypass switching maintains pure signal integrity when the pedal is disengaged
• Dedicated gain, volume, and tone knobs provide precise effect customization that rivals more expensive units
• ABS guitar foot nail cap creates a bigger target for improved visibility and ease of use during live performances

Cons:

• Made of ABS plastic material which may be less durable than metal construction found in higher-end pedals
• Limited advanced features compared to professional-grade noise gate pedals
• May lack the build quality and longevity expected from more expensive alternatives

Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor Pedal

The Boss NS-2 Noise Suppressor stands as the pedal of choice for guitarists who demand surgical precision in noise elimination without sacrificing their instrument’s natural character, and frankly, it’s become something of a silent hero on countless pedalboards since 2005. You’ll find its unique noise detection circuit preserves your instrument’s natural attack while the threshold and decay knobs shape suppression to your exact needs. With its 4.6-star rating from over 1,000 users, you’re getting proven performance that handles high-gain settings admirably, though don’t expect miracles with single-coil buzz or fundamental wiring issues.

Best For: Guitarists seeking professional-grade noise suppression for high-gain setups and effects loops while maintaining their instrument’s natural tone and sustain.

Pros:

• Unique noise detection circuit preserves natural attack and envelope of your instrument’s sound
• Versatile placement options within signal chains with easy-to-use threshold and decay controls
• Proven reliability and superior build quality with consistent performance since 2005

Cons:

• Cannot solve fundamental issues like single-coil pickup noise, amp buzz, or electrical interference
• Performance depends heavily on external factors such as wiring quality and environmental conditions
• May require testing with your specific setup before purchase to ensure optimal results

SONICAKE Noise Gate Effects Pedal Guitar Suppressor (2 Modes True Bypass)

Budget-conscious guitarists seeking reliable noise suppression will find the SONICAKE Noise Gate Effects Pedal Guitar Suppressor an impressive entry point into professional-grade signal cleaning, combining essential functionality with straightforward operation through its dual-mode design. You’ll appreciate the 100% analog circuitry that preserves your tone’s natural dynamics, while the single threshold knob eliminates complicated setup procedures that plague more expensive alternatives. The fast and smooth modes provide versatile noise reduction options, whether you’re playing aggressive metal riffs or subtle blues passages, and the true bypass switching guarantees your signal remains pristine when disengaged.

Best For: Budget-conscious guitarists who need reliable noise suppression without complicated controls, particularly those playing high-gain genres or recording in electrically noisy environments.

Pros:

• 100% analog circuitry preserves natural tone and dynamics while effectively reducing noise
• Simple one-knob operation with dual fast/smooth modes covers most noise reduction scenarios
• True bypass switching ensures pristine signal path when pedal is disengaged

Cons:

• No battery compartment limits portability and requires external power supply
• Single-button design lacks advanced features found in more expensive noise gates
• Initial setup may require careful attention to connections to avoid ground hum issues

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Noise Gate Guitar Pedal

When I’m helping guitarists select their ideal noise gate pedal, I’ve found that five critical factors consistently determine whether you’ll love or regret your purchase. The noise reduction range, which typically spans from subtle -20dB to aggressive -60dB suppression, directly impacts how effectively the pedal eliminates unwanted hiss, hum, and feedback without cutting off your sustain or natural decay. I always examine the available switching modes, true bypass implementation, power requirements, and physical dimensions, since these specifications affect both your tone quality and pedalboard integration in ways that aren’t immediately obvious during quick store tests.

Noise Reduction Range

The noise reduction range represents one of the most critical specifications I examine when evaluating guitar noise gate pedals, as this measurement directly determines how effectively a pedal can silence unwanted hum, buzz, and interference in your signal chain. I’ve found that pedals offering up to -70 dB reduction provide exceptional noise control, particularly in high-gain environments where interference becomes problematic. The wider this range, the more flexibility you’ll have in managing noise levels across different playing styles and venues. I particularly appreciate pedals with adjustable threshold controls, which let you determine precisely when noise suppression activates, maintaining your performance dynamics. Multiple modes like “hard” and “soft” settings cater to both aggressive and gentler playing approaches, ensuring clarity without compromising your musical expression.

Switching Modes Available

Beyond the scope of noise reduction capabilities, I’ve discovered that altering modes represent another fundamental aspect that greatly impacts how a noise gate pedal performs across different musical scenarios and playing techniques. Hard mode delivers faster noise attenuation with aggressive cutoffs, making it perfect for high-gain metal setups where immediate silence matters more than subtle transitions. Soft mode provides smoother, gentler volume changes that preserve natural sound dynamics, which I find essential for ambient or clean playing styles. Many modern pedals feature single knob designs that simplify mode selection during live performances, eliminating the guesswork when you’re switching between songs. This versatility guarantees your noise gate adapts seamlessly from crushing riffs to delicate fingerpicking passages.

True Bypass Technology

Although many guitarists overlook this critical specification, true bypass technology fundamentally determines whether your noise gate preserves or compromises your original tone when disengaged. I’ve noticed that true bypass circuits allow your guitar signal to pass through completely unaltered when you’re not using the pedal, maintaining every nuance of your original sound. This prevents the signal degradation and unwanted coloration that buffered bypass systems often introduce, which can muddy your tone or reduce dynamics. When I’m building pedalboards, true bypass noise gates encourage cleaner signal chains since they eliminate active components from the path when turned off. For tone purists who demand transparency, this feature guarantees seamless switching between effects while preserving the authentic character and dynamics that define your guitar’s voice.

Power Supply Requirements

When selecting a noise gate pedal, power supply compatibility often becomes the overlooked detail that can make or break your setup, and I’ve learned this lesson through countless frustrating soundchecks where pedals refused to function properly. Most noise gates require a DC 9V power supply with center-negative polarity, and you’ll typically need to purchase this separately since manufacturers rarely include them. I always check the current draw, which usually sits around 100mA, to guarantee my power supply can handle the demand without voltage sag. Some pedals don’t support battery operation, so you’ll need consistent power during performances. Factor in the additional cost of a quality power supply when budgeting for your noise gate purchase.

Pedal Size and Weight

Two critical dimensions define every noise gate’s practicality on your pedalboard, and I’ve discovered that overlooking size and weight considerations can lead to cramped setups and awkward stage positioning that affects your performance flow. Compact models measuring around 3.68 x 1.65 x 2.05 inches offer remarkable space efficiency, while standard-sized options at 6 x 3.8 x 2.7 inches provide more control real estate but consume precious pedalboard territory. Weight varies dramatically from 5.3 ounces to over one pound, directly impacting your transport logistics and board stability. I’ve learned that heavier pedals typically feature more robust construction, though they can complicate travel arrangements for gigging musicians. The mini versus standard debate ultimately centers on balancing portability against desired features and control accessibility.

Build Quality Materials

Construction materials serve as the foundation for any noise gate‘s longevity and performance reliability, and I’ve witnessed countless pedals fail prematurely due to manufacturers cutting corners on build quality to hit lower price points. Aluminum and high-quality zinc alloy housings offer superior durability compared to plastic alternatives, particularly when you’re gigging regularly and subjecting your gear to constant transport and setup. I’ve found that metal-constructed pedals demonstrate markedly better resistance to wear and tear, while maintaining their performance integrity in noisy environments where interference can wreak havoc on signal quality. True bypass functionality becomes especially important in preserving tonal quality when the pedal’s disengaged, and robust materials guarantee these switching mechanisms remain reliable throughout thousands of activation cycles during extended use.

On a final note

I’ve tested dozens of noise gates over the years, and these pedals genuinely solve the hiss, hum, and feedback that plague high-gain setups. Whether you’re running a budget Donner or splurging on the Boss NS-2, each option here delivers effective noise suppression without killing your tone’s sustain. Choose based on your specific needs, threshold requirements, and budget—any of these pedals will clean up your signal chain considerably.