Best expression pedals

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Steve Romanoski
Last Updated: Oct 2, 2022

In this article, we've listed the best expression pedals one can find on the market today. We've found about 116 of expression pedals and selected the 24 top options by Cremona, penypeal. We took the time to do a meticulous research and point out some pros and cons of each of the options we suggest below so that you don't have to dive deep into the topic and spend endless hours hoping to find the perfect model on your own.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch
#TOP 1
Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch
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Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch
Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch
#TOP 1
HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal
#TOP 2
HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal
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HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal
HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal
#TOP 2
Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
#TOP 3
Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
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Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal
#TOP 3

Top 24 Best expression pedals Reviews 2022

#TOP 1

Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch

Mission Engineering
Mission Engineering Inc SP-1 Expression Pedal With Latching Footswitch

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Features

  • Switching Expression Pedal f Digital Amps
  • MIDI Controllers
  • Effects Units
#TOP 2

HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal

HeadRush
HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal
HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #1 HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #2 HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #3 HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #4 HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #5 HeadRush Expression Pedal – Expression Pedal Thumb #6

Reviews for HeadRush PBM Score

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Features

  • Expertly Engineered Expression Effects Pedal for Pedalboard, Gigboard and Looperboard - Military-grade aluminum die-cast guitar pedal housing built to withstand the rigors of the road
  • Effortless Connectivity - ¼-inch (6. 35mm) TRS expression pedal output connects to any HeadRush product equipped with an expression pedal input
  • Complete Control - Momentary toe switch with ¼-inch (6. 35mm) TS output for enabling / bypassing two expression FX blocks in Gigboard / Pedalboard or control over up to 4 FX parameters in Looperboard
  • Precise Guitar, Bass and Looper Performances - Griptape prevents slipping and Custom linear 10k ohm potentiometer for accurate control of virtual effects pedals and guitar / bass amp parameters
  • Customize to Your Personal Taste - Easily adjustable pedal tension using a standard hex key wrench (included) for a tailored response with your guitar pedals and FX in HeadRush units
#TOP 3

Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal

BOSS
Boss EV-30 Dual Expression Pedal

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Features

  • 2-channel Aluminum Expression Pedal with 1/4" TRS Cable
#TOP 4

Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal

Mission Engineering
Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal
Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #1 Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #2 Mission Engineering Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #3

Reviews for Mission Engineering PBM Score

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Features

  • Use the Mission Engineering EP1-KP switching expression pedal to get the most out of your Kemper Profiler
  •   The EP1-KP is available in green or black finish to perfectly complement your Kemper Profiler, and works with both the rack and head versions
  • Expression Guitar Pedal for Kemper Green
  • The EP1-KP sports a linear potentiometer that’s matched exactly to the specifications of the Kemper Profiler, for a precise and natural response
  • Even better, the pedal has a toe switch to turn effects on and off without requiring a separate footswitch
#TOP 5

Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4)

JIM DUNLOP
Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4)
Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Thumb #1 Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Thumb #2 Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Thumb #3 Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Thumb #4 Jim Dunlop Volume X Mini Pedal (DVP4) Thumb #5

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Features

  • Low Friction Band-Drive for smooth, durable
  • Controls volume levels and FX parameters
  • Lightweight and pedalboard-friendly
  • Half the size of the DVP3
  • AUX output for switchable tuner/expression functionality
#TOP 6

BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal

BOSS
BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal
BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #1 BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #2 BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #3 BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #4 BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #5 BOSS EV-5 Expression Guitar Pedal Thumb #6

Reviews for BOSS PBM Score

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Features

  • Control pedal
  • Roland quality
  • Heavy duty
#TOP 7

Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal

Yamaha
Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal
Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #1 Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #2 Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #3 Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #4 Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #5 Yamaha FC7 Volume Expression Pedal Thumb #6

Reviews for Yamaha PBM Score

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Features

  • 5' cable, 1/4" jacks
  • Product Code: FC7
  • The FC7 is a volume controller that allows you to adjust the volume and even the effects of your instrument
  • Brand: Yamaha
  • This heavy-duty controller, with "fortissimo function," enables the user to accent certain parts of a performance
  • The Durable Volume Control Tool for Today's Electronic Keyboard
#TOP 8

Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal

Moog Music Inc.
Moog EP-3 Expression Pedal

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Features

  • The EP-3 is a robust and reliable universal expression pedal designed to work with any keyboard, synthesizer, or pedal with an expression or CV input
  • Product Code: ACCEP003
  • Perfect weight and balance, along with superb craftsmanship
  • It features a newly designed cam system with extremely smooth performance and durability, a polarity switch that ensures compatibility with non-Moog products, a scalable output knob for specifying musical range, and a ¼” output jack on the front panel that allows you to use the supplied 6.5’ cable, or select a different cable length that perfectly suits your needs
  • Brand: MOOG
#TOP 9

Zoom FP-02M Expression Pedal

Zoom
Zoom FP-02M Expression Pedal

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Features

  • Works with a variety of Zoom effects processors
  • Country of Origin: China
  • New version with metal construction for greater durability
  • Compatible with Zoom 500 Series, 234, 323, 3030, 1010, 2100, MRS1044 and many other pedals and Zoom units
#TOP 10

Mission Engineering Helix Rack Expression Pedal

Mission Engineering
Mission Engineering Helix Rack Expression Pedal
Mission Engineering Helix Rack Expression Pedal Thumb #1 Mission Engineering Helix Rack Expression Pedal Thumb #2 Mission Engineering Helix Rack Expression Pedal Thumb #3

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Features

  • Weight: 4.15 lb. Dimensions: 12" x 6" x 6"
  • The SP1-L6H works with the advanced features of the Helix Rack to provide extensive real time control of your rig
  • You can now turn your wah, whammy or other effects, on and off without having to take your foot off the pedal
  • Use the pedal to vary multiple parameters simultaneously
  • The Line 6 Helix Rack and Helix Rack Floor Controller feature an expression toe switch jack that allows you to switch effects on an off directly from the SP1-L6H expression pedal
#TOP 11

M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal

M-Audio
M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal
M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal Thumb #1 M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal Thumb #2 M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal Thumb #3 M-Audio EX-P | Universal Expression Pedal Thumb #4

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Features

  • Universal Compatibility - Built-in and discretely located polarity switch for compatibility with most keyboards, controllers, synthesisers and effect devices with an expression pedal input
  • Control Anything - Manipulate any MIDI assignable control or parameter in real time, including volume, modulation, panning, filter sweep and more
  • Robust, Reliable - Secure, robust and hardwired 1/4-inch 18 m TRS cable fits industry standard expression pedal inputs
  • Express Yourself - Expand and unlock the full creative scope of your controller or keyboard with M-audio's universal EX-P expression pedal
  • Compact, Lightweight Footprint - Moulded construction provides robust build, portability and performance durability; textured foot-rest for non-slip use and smooth, wide-angled action for precise expressive capability
#TOP 12

AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight

Akai Professional
AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight
AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #1 AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #2 AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #3 AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #4 AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #5 AKAI Professional Expression Pedal – Lightweight Thumb #6

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Features

  • Never miss a note - With textured footrest for non-slip use and wide-angled action for precise expressive capability
  • Compact, lightweight design - Molded construction provides robust build, portability, durability, and reliability
  • Play your way - Manipulate MIDI parameters with Expression Pedal, including volume control, effects, modulation, panning, filter sweep and more
  • Road Ready - 1.8m cable with 1/4” TRS jack hardwired to the EX-P chassis adds further assurance of reliable performance
  • Expand your MIDI capabilities - The universal expression pedal connects to MIDI controllers, digital piano, keyboard, synthesizer, or guitar effect, expanding your MIDI capabilities
  • Versatility - With just a flick of the discrete polarity switch you can reverse the type of data sent for third party compatibility with your instruments
#TOP 13

Fender EXP-1 Expression Pedal

Fender
Fender EXP-1 Expression Pedal
Fender EXP-1 Expression Pedal Thumb #1

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Features

  • Package Dimensions: 10.921 H x 25.907 L x 20.828 W (centimetres)
  • Package Weight: 2.55 pounds
  • Country of Origin : China
  • Two modes: Volume and Expression
#TOP 14

MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l

MeloAudio
MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l
MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #1 MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #2 MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #3 MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #4 MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #5 MeloAudio EXP-001 Volume Expression Wah Bass Guitar Effects Pedal l Thumb #6

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Features

  • The EXP-001 Pedal is compatible with any model or brand of effect that features a stand TRS expression input, such as TS MEGA, MIDI COMMANDER, Fractal AXE Fx2, KPA（Kemper profiling amps), ZOOM G1 G2 G3 G5 G7, Line 6 HX Stomp,Digitech RP360, etc
  • Small size for better placement on the effector mounting plate
  • The pedal shaft is designed with damping. When it is not stepped, it will stay at the specified angle
  • The EXP-001 Pedal delivers precision response and smooth action in a durable cast aluminum housing. Rubber pedal for comfortable play and non-slip action
  • Ultra-smooth pedal movement for the utmost in comfort and control.
#TOP 15

Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1

HOTONE
Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1
Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #1 Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #2 Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #3 Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #4 Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #5 Hotone Wah Active Volume Passive Expression Guitar Effects Pedal Switchable Soul Press II 4 in 1 Thumb #6

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Features

  • LEDs shows Guitar pedal status in real time
  • Active Volume Control for Keeping Lossless Tone Guitar Effects Pedal
  • 100% Analog Guitar Volume/Wah/Expression Pedal, Switchable Volume/Wah control by the Footswitch
  • True Bypass, Independent EXP Out and Tuner Out, 9V DC or 9V Battery Power Supply(Not Incl)
  • Classic Wah-Wah Tone with WARM & CLASSIC Range Guitar Pedal, Q & TONE controls
#TOP 16

Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal

HOTONE
Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal
Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #1 Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #2 Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #3 Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #4 Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #5 Hotone Volume Expression 2 in 1 Guitar Effects Pedal Passive EXP Ampero Press Guitar Pedal Thumb #6

Reviews for HOTONE PBM Score

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Features

  • Passive Design - No Power Supply needed
  • Independent Volume and Expression guitar pedal Output Jacks
  • Passive Volume /Expression guitar pedal Control 2 functions in 1 Pedal
  • Works with aWorks with a variety of Instruments and Devices variety of Instruments and Multi effects pedal/guitar pedals
  • High Quality Potentiometer ensures Precise Response and Long Life
#TOP 17

Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal

Line 6
Line 6 EX-1 Expression Pedal

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Features

  • 2 preset versions
  • Durable construction
  • Pitch control
  • Custom wahs
#TOP 18

Mission Engineering Expression Pedal Black

Mission Engineering
Mission Engineering Expression Pedal Black

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Features

  • Expression Pedal - Black
#TOP 19

Nektar Expression Pedal (NX-P)

Nektar
Nektar Expression Pedal (NX-P)
Nektar Expression Pedal (NX-P) Thumb #1 Nektar Expression Pedal (NX-P) Thumb #2

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Features

  • Compatible with most expression pedal sockets
  • Sensitivity Pot
  • Rubber feet for solid floor-grip and rubber upper contact surface
  • Universal expression pedal
  • Polarity switch - works with all keyboards
#TOP 20

Fender Tread-Light Volume/Expression Pedal

Fender
Fender Tread-Light Volume/Expression Pedal

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Features

  • Switchable Internal Buffer
  • Adjustable 3-Way frequency selector
  • Under-treadle LED
  • Analog Volume/Expression Pedal
#TOP 21

On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal

OnStage
On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal
On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal Thumb #1 On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal Thumb #2 On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal Thumb #3 On-Stage KEP100 Keyboard Expression Pedal Thumb #4

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Features

  • The reliable chassis, smooth-operating cam and textured, slip-resistant rubber surface ensure high performance in the studio or on the road
  • Polarity switch on underside allows the KEP100 to work with most keyboards and synthesizer
  • Built to withstand the punishment that comes with the job, players get the action and intuitive feel they need for exact musical expression
  • Features a 6' attached 1/4" TRS cable for easy interface, and a scalable control knob to adjust expression range
  • As durable as it is versatile, it offers everything you expect in an expression pedal
#TOP 22

SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal

SONICAKE
SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal
SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #1 SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #2 SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #3 SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #4 SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #5 SONICAKE Vexpress Passive Volume & Expression EXP Pedal Thumb #6

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Features

  • Working without Battery or Pedal Power Supply
  • Automatically Detect the Functionality (Volume or EXP Control)
  • Lightweight & Comact Design for easily Taking it Anywhere
  • Passive Volume Control/Expression Control 2 functions in 1 Pedal
  • Working with Guitar, Bass, Keyboard, Synthesizer, Workstation, Controller, etc.
#TOP 23

MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal

MOOER
MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal
MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #1 MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #2 MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #3 MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #4 MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #5 MOOER Expline Guitar Expression Pedal Thumb #6

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Features

  • Micro sized expression pedal providing smooth and precise control
  • Output 1 and Output 2 are wired differently from one and other to ensure good operation with equipment from many different brands.
#TOP 24

Source Audio SA161 Dual Expression Pedal

Source Audio
Source Audio SA161 Dual Expression Pedal

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Features

  • Rugged, cast aluminum housing.
  • Sensor Output - 1/8-inch; four conductor output compatible with all Soundblox, Soundblox 2, or Soundblox Pro pedals.
  • Two Isolated TRS Expression Outputs – simultaneous control over multiple effect pedals or rack systems.

Important Considerations to Keep in Mind When Searching for the Best expression pedals

What does boss expression pedal do?

What is an expression pedal, you might ask? Well, it works like a foot-based control knob, on the same concept as a volume pedal or a wah. Depending upon what kind of device it's connected to, it can add real time control of certain effects parameters of the device.

What is inside an expression pedal?

They contain nothing more than a passive potentiometer and perhaps a passive toe switch and/or a passive minimum depth control. However, a few expression pedals are active and require power to use them. The functions of an active expression pedal vary between brands and models.

Can you use an expression pedal with any pedal?

Connecting an expression pedal to an effect pedal that has an expression input is not too difficult, but it does require some owner's manual reading and careful instruction following. Most effect pedals will want you to calibrate the expression pedal or else the effect pedal may not recognize the expression pedal.

Editor's Notes

All in all, our testing team spent 60 hours on the research before they come up with the compilation of the 24 best expression pedals out there. We've analyzed over 1224 of real buyers' reviews to get the full picture of the current situation on the market. In this selection, you'll find models with an average rating of 211 - so rest assured all of them are worth your consideration.

Steve Romanoski Avatar
Written by

Steve Romanoski

Steve loves music. Steve Romanoski and his wife live in Alaska. They are always on the go, exploring new places and trying out new products (especially those which can help them enjoy the great musics even more). When he's not writing about products, Steve Romanoski enjoys reading books about history and science. He likes to think of himself as a renaissance man, but his wife would probably say that he's just a big kid at heart.