There are more distortion pedals floating around the market than any other type of effect, especially if you include overdrive. This quiz focuses on some of the most popular and best-value options, many of which we've personally reviewed. It contains 10 questions that will help you narrow in on the distortion pedal you should get, or at least one that can help inform and refine your search. Note that the pricing question is approximate and is subject to change.
Find the Distortion Pedal that's Right for you
Take our thorough quiz to get a distortion pedal suggestion.
The quiz is only 10 question, though takes into account all the relevant aspects of your situation to recommend a distortion pedal that you should buy.
While we're proud of this quiz and think it can be helpful to people, it's always important to take suggestions and recommendations - like the ones we make - with a grain of salt. If the result doesn't totally suit you, use it as a direction to go in or a loose guide to help find something that's more ideal.
Budget and Pricing
If you get a result that's outside of your price range (higher or lower) we'd recommend simply talking note of the qualities of that pedal and then looking for similar options in your price range.
For example, if you get the Ibanez TS9, but need something cheaper, you can drop down to the ProCo Rat or Boss DS-1 which are similar in tone and control to the TS9 but, less expensive.
Again, it's the grain of salt disclaimer that you need to keep in mind. If the specific result works for you, then great. But if not, use it as a guide and a direction to go in.
Weighting in the Quiz
Note that different questions are weighted differently within the quiz. For example, price range is weighted more heavily than features or skill level. This doesn't really change how you use the quiz, but is something you should keep in mind as you answer the questions.
Places to Buy
Once you finish the quiz and you have a suggestion, you can buy via our Sweetwater and Reverb links to support us. We might get a commission if you buy gear, yet at no extra cost to you. Refer to our affiliate disclosure page for additional information.
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