If you’re a guitarist, you know the drill. Cables get tangled, pedals end up all over the place, and before you know it, your setup’s a mess right when you need it the most. That’s why a good pedalboard is such a lifesaver. It keeps everything organized and ready to go, whether you’re jamming at home, hitting the studio, or playing live.
A pedalboard is more than just a flat surface for your pedals. It’s the foundation of your whole effects setup, giving your pedals a secure spot and making sure everything’s set up just the way you like it. Once you have a pedalboard, you’ll wonder how you managed without one.
We have put together a list of some of the best pedalboards out there to suit every style and budget. If you need something compact for a few pedals or a rugged option that can handle life on the road, we have options for everyone.
In this list, you will find popular brands like Pedaltrain, Gator, and Aclam, with boards in all kinds of shapes and sizes. Some even let you customize your setup so you can build it exactly how you like. We’ll also go over the main features to consider, like size, portability, and power supply compatibility, so you can pick the best one for your pedals and playing style.
So whether you’re a casual player at home or a pro on the road, there’s a pedalboard here that’s made just for you.
Quick List of the Best Guitar Pedalboards
- Pedaltrain Classic Jr Pedalboard – Best Overall
- Pedaltrain Nano+ Pedalboard – Best Compact
- Gator G-TOUR Pedal Beast – Best for Touring
- BOSS BCB-90X Pedalboard – Best Customizable
- Fender Pro Pedalboard – Best Simple Setup
- XPND Expandable Pedalboard – Best for Flexibility
- Voodoo Lab Dingbat Medium Pedalboard – Best with Built-in Power Supply
- Donner DB-3 Pedalboard – Best Budget
Why Every Guitarist Needs a Pedalboard
If you play guitar, you know how messy things can get with a bunch of effect pedals. Before you know it, cables are everywhere, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when all you want to do is start playing.
This is where a pedalboard really comes in handy. It is a game changer for guitarists at any stage, whether you are just starting out or have been playing for years.
For beginners, a pedalboard keeps your growing collection of pedals organized. Instead of spending time untangling cables, you can jump right into playing.
For more experienced players, having a pedalboard means faster setup. You will not be fumbling with pedals before gigs or practice sessions anymore.
If you are a pro or touring musician, a pedalboard is absolutely essential when you’re on the road. It keeps your gear safe and your settings just the way you like them while traveling from one show to the next.
Here is why a pedalboard can make such a difference:
- Keeps everything organized and secure
- Speeds up setup time
- Lowers the chance of cables disconnecting
- Protects your settings
- Gives you quick access to all your effects
With a pedalboard, you get to focus on your music, not the gear. Plus, it looks professional on stage, showing that you take your craft seriously.
Many pedalboards also come with built-in power options, so you do not have to worry about a bunch of wall adapters.
If you want to create your own setup, you can even get custom pedalboards that let you arrange everything exactly how you want it. You can add or swap pedals as your style changes.
If you are new to effects, start with a simple pedalboard. Then, as your collection grows, you can upgrade to a larger one.
In the end, a well-organized pedalboard is your key to smooth performances and easier practice sessions. It is an investment that definitely pays off in the long run.
Best Pedalboards
We’ve rounded up some of the best pedalboards for guitarists. These picks will help keep your effects pedals neat, secure, and ready to go. Whether you are looking for something simple or a board with all the extras, there is an option here for every setup and budget.
Pedaltrain Classic Jr Pedalboard
If you are looking to organize your pedals with a solid, reliable board, we highly recommend the Pedaltrain Classic Jr. It is versatile, well-built, and ready to handle a range of setups.
Pros
- Durable aluminum build
- Flexible mounting options
- Comes with a quality soft case
Cons
- Might feel small for larger pedal collections
- Mounting a power supply can take a bit of patience
- Included velcro is decent but could be better
We put the Pedaltrain Classic Jr to the test, and it delivered. At 18 by 12.5 inches, it is a great size for most players. It fits a solid setup without hogging all your stage space.
The open-front design makes a big difference. Mounting and routing cables was a breeze, with no awkward angles or tight spots to deal with. The aluminum construction feels strong enough for anything, so we would not worry about it handling the road.
The soft case is a nice addition, too. It is padded well and has a solid zipper, plus a shoulder strap that makes carrying easier. If you tend to be rough on your gear, though, you might want to upgrade to a hard case.
One heads up is that the velcro it comes with is okay, but if you want everything super secure, it might be worth getting a higher-quality velcro. Mounting a power supply underneath can be a bit tricky, but with some planning, it works just fine.
All in all, the Pedaltrain Classic Jr is a great pick. It is the perfect middle-ground board that should work for most players, whether you are gigging or just jamming at home. This board will keep up with you, no problem.
Pedaltrain Nano+ Pedalboard
If you are after a small, easy-to-carry pedalboard that still packs a punch, the Pedaltrain Nano+ is a solid choice.
Pros
- Very compact and lightweight
- Tough aluminum build
- Comes with a padded soft case
Cons
- Limited space for larger setups
- Mounting a power supply can be a bit tricky
- Feet could be a little taller
We have been using the Pedaltrain Nano+ for small gigs and practice, and it has quickly become a favorite. At 18 by 5 inches, it comfortably fits about 4 to 6 pedals, which works perfectly for a simple, compact setup.
The aluminum construction feels sturdy, and the light weight makes it super easy to carry around. The soft case that comes with it is well-padded, so it keeps everything safe and secure.
One thing we really like is the two-rail design, which lets you be flexible with your pedal layout. The included velcro holds pedals in place well, so there is no worry about things shifting around.
When it comes to power, we managed to fit a small power supply underneath. It is a snug fit, but with a bit of creative cable management, it works just fine. The portability of this board more than makes up for that little inconvenience.
We have taken this board to a few gigs now, and it has held up great. The soft case makes it easy to bring along and has enough padding to protect everything. The Nano+ has definitely become an essential part of our setup for smaller rigs.
Gator G-TOUR Pedal Beast
If you need serious protection and lots of room for your pedals, the Gator G TOUR Pedal Beast is a solid choice, especially for musicians who are frequently on the road.
Pros
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- Tough exterior with plywood frame and aluminum edging
- Spacious 24″ x 11″ surface for your pedals
Comes with wheels and a retractable handle for easier transport
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Cons
- It is on the heavier side at nearly 28 pounds
- Might be a bit much if you are a casual player
- Higher price than most basic pedalboards
We have given the Gator G TOUR Pedal Beast a good test, and it lives up to its name. This thing is built like a tank and can handle just about anything. You can see right away that it is made to last.
With a roomy 24″ x 11″ surface, it comfortably fits around eight standard pedals, which stay secure with the reliable 3M Dual Lock system. Whether you are playing a high-energy gig or just moving things around, your pedals will stay secure.
The tough plywood frame and aluminum edging add extra durability, while the wheels and retractable handle make it easy to move, even though it weighs almost 28 pounds.
For musicians who play gigs often, the G TOUR Pedal Beast is a great choice. But if you are more of a casual player, you might find the weight and cost a bit much.
BOSS BCB-90X Pedalboard
If you are a guitarist looking for a sturdy, customizable pedalboard that can handle gigs, rehearsals, and practice sessions, the BOSS BCB 90X could be exactly what you need.
Pros
- Customizable foam insert that lets you set up your pedals just the way you like
- Built-in cable management keeps things neat and tidy
- Tough molded case with a removable lid
Cons
- On the pricier side compared to some other options
- Initial setup takes a bit of patience
- Might feel a little tight if you have a large collection of pedals
We had the chance to put the BOSS BCB 90X to the test, and it is packed with features that make it a great choice for dedicated guitarists. The customizable foam insert is perfect for getting your pedal layout exactly how you want it. You can set up each pedal in a way that feels natural, making it easy to play without missing a beat.
The cable management system is another feature we loved. It keeps all your cables tucked away neatly, so setup and teardown are quick and smooth. Say goodbye to messy cables and hello to a clean, organized rig.
The molded case is lightweight but tough enough to take a bit of rough handling, which is great for anyone taking their gear on the road. We especially liked the removable lid, so you can keep everything set up without constantly packing and unpacking.
One thing to keep in mind is the price. It is not the cheapest board out there, but if you are serious about your gear, the quality makes it a solid investment.
Setting everything up might take some time initially. Cutting the foam and organizing the cables can be a little fiddly, but once it is done, you are set.
If you have a large collection of pedals, space could be a limitation. The BCB 90X holds about 10 standard-sized pedals, which should be perfect for most setups.
Fender Pro Pedalboard
If you are after a pedalboard that is simple, durable, and versatile, the Fender Pro Pedalboard is a great pick. It is easy to see why so many guitarists love this one.
Pros
- Lightweight yet tough aluminum build
- Smart cable management that keeps everything tidy
- Universal power supply mount
Cons
- Smaller size limits the number of pedals you can fit
- Plastic guards on the bottom might loosen up over time
- Power supply is sold separately
We put the Fender Pro Pedalboard to the test, and it did not disappoint. The anodized aluminum frame is sturdy but light, making it easy to carry without feeling flimsy. Setting up pedals on this board is quick and straightforward, which we really appreciate.
The cable management system is a big win here. It keeps everything neat and organized, even with a full load of pedals. Underneath, there is a universal bracket that fits most power supplies, giving you a tidy, compact setup.
The soft case that comes with it is a nice touch, adding that extra layer of protection when you are on the move. It even has a storage pocket and cable ties, which are perfect for keeping small extras organized. While it is on the smaller side, we find the size just right for most gigs.
XPND Expandable Pedalboard
If you want a pedalboard that can adapt to your setup, the XPND Expandable Pedalboard is a solid choice. It gives you the freedom to adjust as you go.
Pros
- Adjustable size to match your pedal needs
- Tough aluminum build that can handle regular use
- Smart cable management keeps everything organized
Cons
- Limited space for taller power supplies underneath
- Slight difference in height when you expand it
- Setting it up can be a bit tricky at first
We have been using the XPND pedalboard for our gigs, and it is quickly becoming a must-have in our setup. The telescoping design is incredibly handy, letting us expand the board to add more pedals or shrink it down when we are keeping things simple.
The build quality is impressive, with lightweight aluminum that handles plenty of wear without showing it. The pre-applied Velcro is a nice bonus, making it easy to move pedals around without much fuss.
One standout feature is the cable management system, which keeps everything organized and saves us from dealing with a mess of tangled cables. It is a real time-saver when setting up for a show. If you have a taller power supply, it might be a snug fit underneath, so keep that in mind if you are using a larger unit.
Voodoo Lab Dingbat Medium Pedalboard
If you want a pedalboard with a top-notch power supply and a smart, user-friendly design, the Voodoo Lab Dingbat Medium Pedalboard is an excellent choice.
Pros
- Built-in high-quality power supply that keeps things simple
- Lightweight yet durable aluminum build that is easy to carry
- Thoughtful cable management system for a clean setup
Cons
- On the pricier side compared to other options
- Velcro could be a bit stronger
- Limited power output for a few high-power pedals
The built-in Pedal Power 2 PLUS on the Voodoo Lab Dingbat Medium Pedalboard is a standout feature. It provides clean, isolated power to each effect, making your sound clear and consistent.
The layout of the board is really well thought out. With plenty of routing holes, it is easy to tuck cables away neatly, keeping everything looking tidy on stage and making setup a breeze.
Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the board is both sturdy and lightweight, so we feel confident taking it to gigs without worrying about damage. The gig bag included offers solid protection, though it would be nice if it had an extra pocket for accessories.
While it is not the cheapest option, the quality justifies the investment. The power supply alone adds great value. Our only minor complaint is that some high-power pedals might need a separate power source.
Overall, the Voodoo Lab Dingbat Medium Pedalboard has made our setup process smoother and our rig more dependable. It is a great choice for musicians who want a reliable, well-made board that is built to last.
Donner DB-3 Pedalboard
If you are after a dependable and portable pedalboard without spending too much, the Donner DB 3 is a solid pick for guitarists at any level.
Pros
- Lightweight aluminum build that is easy to carry
- Comes with a carrying bag and useful accessories
- Flexible options for mounting your power supply
Cons
- Might not handle heavy-duty gigging
- Limited space if you have a big pedal setup
- Velcro strips could be a bit stronger
We tried out the Donner DB 3, and it is easy to see why it is so popular. Weighing only 2.5 pounds, it is incredibly easy to bring along. The aluminum frame feels sturdy enough for everyday use, especially for home practice or lighter gigging.
The included gig bag is a nice addition, with comfy shoulder straps and padding to keep your gear safe. It also comes with handy extras like Velcro, zip ties, and pedal cables that make setting up simple.
We really like the hollow design for easy cable management. It works well with different power supplies, so you have some flexibility in arranging your setup. The rounded corners give it a polished feel that adds a nice touch of quality.
For the price, the DB 3 offers fantastic value. While it may not be the toughest board on the market, it works well for most players, especially those who do light gigging or mostly play at home.
We noticed that the Velcro strips could be a bit stronger, so heavy users might want to reinforce them. The space is a bit tight too, so if you have a larger pedal setup, you might need a bigger board.
Overall, we are impressed with the Donner DB 3. It is a great balance of features, portability, and price. For many guitarists, it could be the perfect way to keep pedals organized without the fuss.
What to Look for in a Guitar Pedalboard
Finding the right pedalboard can make a huge difference in your playing experience and in keeping your gear safe. Here are a few things to keep in mind.
Size and Layout
Start by thinking about how many pedals you have now and how many you might want to add later. A smaller board is great for a few essentials, while a larger one gives you room to grow.
If you like to keep things simple, a single-row board might be perfect. Medium-sized boards offer space for more effects, and large boards can handle multiple rows of pedals. Some players like a straight line setup, while others go for a V shape to make pedals easier to reach during a show.
It is also smart to leave a bit of extra space so you can add new pedals without having to buy a bigger board every time you expand your setup.
Portability
Think about how often you will be moving your pedalboard around. Lightweight boards are perfect for home use or smaller gigs. If you travel a lot, consider a compact board that fits easily in your car or even in a carry-on.
For musicians on the road, look for boards that can take a bit of wear and tear, with sturdy handles and strong materials. Some boards even fold up, which is a bonus when space is tight in a van or small car.
Construction Materials
The material of your pedalboard affects its weight and durability. Aluminum boards are light but still tough, which is great if you are playing gigs regularly. Steel boards are a bit heavier but very durable, making them a good choice for home or studio use.
Wood boards have a classic look but can be on the heavier side, so they are best for setups that do not need to be moved too often. Some boards also come with scratch-resistant coatings and non-slip surfaces, which help keep your pedals steady during performances.
Power Supply Mounting
A good power supply mount keeps cables neat and makes your setup look polished. Many boards have spots underneath where you can attach a power supply, so check if your preferred brand will fit. Some popular options include Voodoo Lab, Strymon, and Cioks.
An isolated power supply can be a good investment since it reduces noise and keeps your tone clean. Some boards even come with a built-in power source, which can save space and make your setup simpler.
Carry Case Options
Investing in a quality carry case protects your pedalboard and makes traveling with your gear easier. Soft cases are light and easy to carry, which is ideal for local gigs, though they offer only basic protection.
For serious travel, a hard case is a better choice. It keeps your gear safe during flights or long road trips. Flight cases are even tougher and help protect your pedalboard from rough handling at airports.
Look for cases with extra pockets for storing cables, picks, and other small items. Padded interiors help prevent damage, while strong zippers and handles make carrying a lot more comfortable.
A good case is worth the investment. It helps extend the life of your pedalboard and keeps everything organized and safe.
Final Thoughts
We have looked at some great pedalboard options that can work well for guitarists at any level. Remember, the right pedalboard is all about what you need and how you play. Think about your current pedals and any new ones you might add down the line.
Consider factors like portability, size, and budget. A pedalboard that fits your setup well can make a huge difference in keeping everything organized and easy to use.
There is no one-size-fits-all pedalboard. Both budget-friendly and high-end options can be perfect for pros, depending on the features and design that match your style best.
Take a little time to picture your ideal pedal layout. This will help you decide on the right board size and style, especially if you plan to add more pedals soon.
We hope this guide has made your search for the perfect pedalboard a bit easier.
FAQs About Pedalboards
What size pedalboard do I need?
Think about the pedals you have now and any you might add in the future. Count them, measure them, and consider how much space you need. If you have just a few pedals, a small board will do the trick. But for more complex setups, a larger board might be better.
It is smart to leave a little extra room for new pedals too. Try sketching out your layout so you can see how everything will fit. This can really help you choose the right size.
Do I need a power supply for my pedalboard?
Yes, most setups need a power supply to keep everything running smoothly. A good power supply gives your pedals consistent power, which means reliable performance and great sound.
Using an isolated power supply can help reduce noise and hum, plus it handles different voltage needs. While daisy chains or batteries can work for smaller setups, they tend to be less dependable if you are running more pedals.
How does pedal order affect sound quality?
The order of your pedals can make a big difference in your tone. A typical setup is to start with tuners and filters, then add gain pedals, followed by modulation effects, and finish with time-based effects like delay and reverb.
This sequence helps keep your sound clear and punchy. But do not hesitate to experiment. Sometimes changing up the order creates a unique sound that really fits your style.
What’s the best way to arrange pedals on a pedalboard?
Try to group similar pedals together, and put the ones you use the most in easy-to-reach spots. This makes it simple to tweak settings during a performance.
Securing your pedals with hook-and-loop strips and keeping cables neat helps avoid tangles and interference. The best layout is the one that works best for your setup and style. For more detailed tips on how to setup guitar pedals, check out my article on guitar pedalboard setup.
Can I build my own pedalboard?
Building your own pedalboard can be a fun project. Many players make great DIY boards out of wood or aluminum with just a few basic tools.
Make sure to leave room for cables, and build it sturdy enough to handle regular use. DIY boards let you customize everything, but if you want to get playing right away, pre-made boards are a faster option.