The Overall Winner
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Sound
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Build Quality
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Features
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Tone
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Size
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Price
The definitive guide to the best loop pedals for guitarists.
This serves as both an introduction to loop pedals, and a guide from the experts as to which loop pedal is right for you. We have reviewed the best loop pedals on the planet, and have put together a list of the 15 best for all kinds of guitarists. Whether you’re looking for a loop pedal for practicing, want to make a YouTube channel and do loop covers of your favourite songs, or even if you’re looking for an all-in-one looper for everything from rehearsals to playing live, we have all bases covered.
Table of Contents:
Top 15 | Pedal Accessories | Demos | FAQ’s
Quick Look – The Best Loop Pedals For Guitar Players
| Image | Pedal | View Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Boss RC-1 | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Digitech JamMan | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Singular Sound BeatBuddy | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Boss RC-30 | VIEW ON AMAZON FULL REVIEW | ||
 | Pigtronix Infinity Looper | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | TC Electronic Ditto Looper | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | NUX Loop Core | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Electro Harmonix Canyon Delay | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Line 6 JM-4 | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Mooer MML1 Micro | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Digitech Trio | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Electro Harmonix 720 | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Mooer Ocean Machine | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | Outlaw Effects Lasso | VIEW ON AMAZON | ||
 | TC X4 Dual Track | VIEW ON AMAZON |
1. Boss RC-1
We had to start this list off with the classic Boss RC-1 Loop Pedal. If you’re here as a fan of earlier loop pedal videos (such as watching the famous Ed Sheeran appearance on Blue Peter that kicked off a lot of the mainstream love for loop pedals), then you may already have an RC-1 at home. A fantastic entry pedal for loop players, the RC-1 is compact, versatile, and priced incredibly fairly for the features that are packed into this stomp box.
The RC-1 provides a solid 12 minutes of recording time, with the option to also call and loop stereo instruments via the pedal too (great for multi-instrumentalists). With a single stomp you can erase, loop, pause, and save each patch that is fed through the pedal.
Here’s the thing… We can write about the RC-1 all day. It’s easier to keep things simple and say, if you’re a beginner or are curious about loop pedals, give the RC-1 a chance. It’s incredibly easy to use and the price-point is spot on… It also fits in your pedalboard with ease and is built to last… Perfect.
Pros: The RC-1 is priced incredibly low considering the amount of features on offer, and serves as a great pedal for beginners looking to jump into the world of looping.
Cons: We would only recommend that beginners get this pedal if they’re serious about sticking to looping, as it may be a tad expensive if you’re only looking to play with a looper once or twice. It also lacks ease of integration with other instruments, unlike its larger counterparts in this guide.
Recommended For: The RC-1 is fantastic for buskers and gigging guitarists looking for a small, though compact loop pedal that.
2. Digitech JamMan
Next up on our definitive guide is the JamMan looper from Digitech, a company that is no stranger to the wonderful world of loops. We’ve linked to two different versions of the JamMan below: one is the Express XT, which is Digitech’s smallest loop pedal they’ve ever made (and great for players looking to cut their teeth on an inexpensive pedal), and the other is the JamMan Solo JMSXT. Let’s look at both pedals separately to see which one is better for the type of guitarist you are:
JamMan Express XT
The Express is a great alternative to the Boss Rc-1 as a beginners loop pedal. A true-stereo pedal, the Express comes with 10 minutes of loop time and a record/dub function for unlimited loops within a patch. There is also a large volume control for the levels of the loop, and the compact size makes this great as either a pedal for travellers, or for players who are lacking room in an existing pedalboard.
JamMan Solo JMSXT
For the fans of Digitech looking to get serious about looping, the JMSXT is the next step up from the simpler Express XT. This pedal stores up to 35 minutes of loops, with an additional SDHC port to import CD loops into the pedal! Loops can also be sped up or slowed, without altering the original pitch of the looped patch. Truly an amazing piece of kit for the experimental guitarist.
Pros: You have to admire what Digitech are doing with both of these pedals, by offering a cheaper and more expensive version based on the budgets of their audience. So, with price in mind, we’d recommend the Express for beginners who don’t want to pay a premium for a Boss pedal, and we’d recommend the Solo as a cheaper option to the Boss RC-30.
Cons: These pedals do not have as wider a variety of integration features as many on this list, however if price is the deciding factor then it makes sense to get either of the above.
Recommended For: Guitarists on a budget looking for loopers similar to those from more expensive brands.
3. Singular Sound BeatBuddy
Now, this pedal isn’t for looping your guitar through, so let’s get that right out of the way. So, why have we included it in the definitive guide? Because if you’re looking for the ultimate looping setup, then it’s worth knowing about the Singular Sound BeatBuddy.
This is a pedal for looping drum beats; 200 pre-loaded beats in fact. Using 10 different kits, the pedal can be used to accompany live musicians as an alternative to a full kit, for a soloist looking to add depth to a performance, or even the casual player in need of easy drum programming for a track or live video.
Either way, when coupled with a quality loop pedal, the loop/drum duo is unstoppable.
Pros: Is the absolutely perfect solution for players looking to expand their drum loop capacities beyond the offerings of a standard loop pedal.
Cons: Can have a slight learning curve for players already accustomed to loop pedals.
Recommended For: Experienced players in need of a much more customisable, bespoke drum loop offering that doesn’t cost a fortune.
4. Boss RC-30
The Boss Rc-30 just had to be the top of our list. This is the epitome of loop pedals, from all aspects including price, build, durability, usability, and features. Boss have become incredibly skilled at not just creating fantastic pedals that guitar players want, but they’ve also nailed easy to use pedals with minimal learning curve. And, when it comes to loop pedals, this is a top priority for a player of any level.
The first striking feature of the Rc-30 is the huge 3 hours of live recording time. This is fantastic news for guitarists looking for the ideal pedal for a live setup. Also, the dual pedals means that its now easier than ever to stop, overdub, and even apply effects to a live recording. And yeah, you heard that last one right…
The RC-3o comes with 5 built-in effects, from pitch shift and lo-fi to a sweeping-effect and more. There are also core, basic rhythm templates that come as standard to jam along to, and also you can add a mic or any instrument to the pedal to really ramp up your loop game. And, with 99 memory banks in which to store loops, you’re never going to be struggling for space.
As we’ve got other favourite pedals to get through, we’re going to have to wind down our praise of the RC-30 at this point for the time being. You can check out the full range of features at the links below, and we also recommend heading to the demos section of this guide to really get a feel for what this pedal can offer!
Pros: Is easily the best loop pedal on this list in terms of the features you get for the money.
Cons: Can be a little too bulky for pedalboards.
Recommended For: Guitarists wanting to loop multiple instruments and experiment with looping effects, whilst not wanting to purchase singular additional effects pedals for the add-on effects capabilities. This pedal will also keep beginners very busy!
5. Pigtronix Infinity Looper
Now, this is a very (metaphorically) heavy piece of looping technology, and is certainly not for the beginner or the faint of hearted. But, as die-hard fans of Pigtronix, we just had to include the infinity looper to our list. It’s not too user friendly, it isn’t wallet friendly, but if you’re looking for a pedal to really get stuck into, then the Infinity Looper ticks all the boxes, again and again.
The Looper allows for dual stereo loops with syncing functionality, 9 loop presets, a unique parallel looping mode, USB port to export saved loops, and an amazing reverse playback setting. We’re only briefly brushing over the functions and features of this pedal, but believe when we say that there’s more than enough to get stuck into. If you want to get down and dirty with a looper (and don’t mind fiddling with buttons and settings) then make sure you check out what Pigtronix have to offer!
Pros: The reverse playback setting is totally unique and incredibly well-executed.
Cons: The general build and usability of the Infinity Looper can be intimidating to beginners.
Recommended For: Guitarists who can use loop pedals already who want to experiment with reverse looping. Great for psychedelic music and integrating unique effects in a live loop setting with multiple instruments.
6. TC Electronic Ditto Looper
If you’re really struggling for pedalboard space, or are a travelling guitarist and need to travel light, then this next pedal is the perfect solution. The Ditto Looper from TC Electronic measures in at a tiny 48 x 48 x 93 mm (in other words, very small!) and comes with 5 minutes of live looping time. The pedal has both a redo and undo function, with unlimited overdubs to boot.
This pedal has won awards, and has also swayed the opinion of many guitarists and live players that bigger is not always better when it comes to the tech side of playing the guitar. It’s also priced very fairly, as you would expect for a pedal of its size.
Pros: The size is fantastic and even by looking at the Ditto you can tell it has a very low learning curve.
Cons: Not recommended for experienced players looking for something more than an entry level looper.
Recommended For: Highly recommended for beginners not wanting to invest a lot of money into their first looper, and for pedalboard owners who are conscious of the space on their board.
7. NUX Loop Core
Another mini looper pedal, the NUX Loop Core comes in at number seven on our list, and bridges the gap between the simplicity of the smaller pedals, and the growing complexity as the larger pedals gain size and features. The NUX Loop core has a whopping 6 hours of recording time, up to 99 available patches to be stored and built-in drum loops & patterns with a tap-tempo so you can really get into the groove.
You can also layer the sounds and rhythms from other pedals, and really start to build up a complex sound which begins with a single loop. Don’t let all of the buttons fool you either, this pedal is great for new users who just want a small pedal that offers a little bit more.
Pros: Recording time is phenomenal, and the features compared to the size of the pedal really are impressive.
Cons: Buttons and controls can be very hard to use in a live setting.
Recommended For: Experienced players who want to experiment with a feature-rich pedal, but don’t want the bulkier kinds of pedals such as the RC-30 or the DittoX4.
8. Electro Harmonix Canyon Delay
Get a load of this crisp, clear, and all-round awesome looking looper! From one of our favourite pedal manufacturers comes the Canyon Delay and Looper, a combination pedal that sets the tone for multi-loop pedals from here on out.
The difference between this and the other loopers in the list is the combined delay and loop feature. The Canyon offers maximum loop time of just 62 seconds, however this is combined with 5ms to 3 seconds of a digital tape delay. Other effects include reverse loop, a deep octave shift, and memory man looper for delay and looping combinations.
Pros: The delay and loop effect combination is truly unique, so if that’s your style then don’t waste any time on other loopers.
Cons: Is a little bit of a one trick pony as it focuses primarily on the echo effect.
Recommended For: Hardcore fans of the standard delay effect and existing Electro Harmonix pedals who are looking for a combination of a looper with the quality of an EH effects unit.
9. Line 6 JM-4
If you’re a fan of presets and having all the hard work done for you, then you’re going to love the JM-4 from Line 6. This looper comes with over 200 artist created presets, 150 presets which are based on specific songs for the artists, and 36 programmable presets which come built-in. The ‘Endless Jam’ feature is where these patches and presets truly come to life, as you can jam along with the loops already inside.
Another point to note is the large amount of effects that come onboard with the pedal. As is typical of Line 6, they love a built-in effect or two. The JM-4 comes with a tremolo, phaser, chorus, delay, echo (tape and sweep) and reverb as standard. What’s not to love there!?
Pros: The variation of effects is the main appeal with this pedal, which is much more of a multi-effects pedal than a standard looper.
Cons: Many guitarists may consider the multi-effects approach to not be a ‘true’ loop pedal, and therefore not see the JM-4 as a viable option. The build is also quite bulky compared to other pedals on this list.
Recommended For: Players wanting an all-in-one effects and looping unit.
10. Mooer MML1 Micro Looper
We absolutely love this pedal. It’s compact, it’s light, and it’s incredibly easy to use. It’s also cheap, and for what you get in terms of versatility, you really can’t argue with the price there either.
This minuscule pedal comes with a whopping 30 minutes of recording time, with unlimited overdubs as standard. The true bypass means that, once the pedal is idle, it will not interfere with any other pedals or signals running through your amp or coming into your axe.
With just one knob, you simply control the level of the loop, stomp to record, then get shredding. We can’t recommend this pedal enough for players curios about looping who don’t want to fully commit to a larger pedal.
Pros: The pedal is one of the lightest in this list and is extremely portable. The 30 minutes of recording time is also more than enough for buskers who just want a compact looper.
Cons: Not recommended for players expecting a plethora of effects to come with the MML1.
Recommended For: Buskers and live-loopers who just want a simple pedal they can stomp on and off.
11. Digitech Trio
There’s new generation pedals, then there’s the TRIO from Digitech. This pedal picks up on the way you play the guitar, from the tempo of your riffs to the style you are playing. It then calculates a drum and bass loop to fit with your playing style… How next-level is that!!
The pedal learns the songs you play, with instant recall on up to 3 pre-sets as you are playing. There are also 12 genres and song styles to be explored.
The pedal comes with a built-in loop with unlimited overdubs as standard, however the true feature here is the band you can create at the click of a button and the flick of a switch. From sequencers and mapping out tempos, to customising bass lines and the mode of the band loops, there’s all sorts that can be done with the TRIO. Check it out at the links below.
Pros: The TRIO is the future of loop pedals, and is suited for lovers of effects pedals that want to keep up with the latest trends and also experiment with the algorithmic, modulated side of looping.
Cons: Not recommended for beginners who are looking for a basic loop pedal.
Recommended For: Experienced guitarists who already have looping effects units and want one of the most modern options on the market.
12. Electro Harmonix 720
With a whopping 12 minutes (or 720 seconds if you’re that way inclined) of stereo loop, the Electro Harmonix 720 is a retro cut, looking like something fresh off the Star Trek Enterprise.
You can control the levels and even the speed of the loop, slowing down without switching the pitch or removing any of the quality of the original stereo loop.
What’s unique about this pedal is the reverse setting, and also the incredibly rare ‘trails’, or loop-fadeout setting which you’ll be hard-pressed to find on any other pedals. This is a truly brilliant addition, and great for guitarists looking for the best pedal for YouTube videos and live recordings… We think the 720 is your best choice.
Pros: Great for fans of retro looping units that want to keep their sound classic with the stereo loop.
Cons: If you’re not going to appreciate the stereo loop effect and degree of control that comes with the pedal (and also not willing to pay the premium for it) then it would not be best to purchase the 720.
Recommended For: Fans of retro loopers and players who really want to get involved with stereo loops.
13. Mooer Ocean Machine – Devin Townsend Signature
If you’re a fan of delay and reverb, and are looking for a combination of the two along with a looper, then the Ocean Machine from Mooer is easily your best choice. A signature Devon Townsend pedal which contributes to the iconic guitar sound of Strapping Young Lad and also his solo efforts, the Ocean Machine adds depth to any tone.
The delay loops up to 60 seconds, with up to 2 seconds of stereo delay effects and incredible depth on the reverb additions.
Just couple this with a quality overdrive pedal and a pair of EMG humbuckers and you’re good to go!
Pros: A perfect loop pedal for metal players looking to add a beefier tone to their rhythm section with live loops.
Cons: The Ocean Machine is incredibly large and not suited for guitarists who have to store pedals individually in cramped homes.
Recommended For: Metal and rock players looking to get serious about looping.
14. Outlaw Effects Lasso
It’s no secret that we love compact pedals here. We’ve covered plenty already, but just had to include this other one.
From Outlaw Effects comes the Lasso, a stomp box with up to 10 minutes of looping time, true bypass output and unlimited overdubs as is standard with these types of pedals.
Another great addition for players looking to experiment with loops or who have limited space, this pedal also makes a great gift as it looks a lot more expensive than it is (and probably should be)!
Pros: The way in which the unlimited overdubs are programmed makes the Lasso perfect for practicing guitarists.
Cons: The Lasso is very limited in the types of looping variety it offers.
Recommended For: Bedroom guitarists looking for a loop pedal for beginners that is easy to use and will not take up a lot of room.
15. TC Electronic Ditto X4 Dual Track Looper
Dual tracks loopers are just good fun. And, whilst not something we would recommend for beginners, these are great for experimental guitarists and shredders looking to jam rhythm chords, or to double up the octaves on solos to give a live solo a boost.
The X4 looper includes 2 loops to track and play around with, and a unique decay button to control the depth and cutoff of each true bypass signal.
If you’re looking for recording quality loops, or are just generally in need of a dual track looper for your own practicing, shredding and soloing purposes, then make sure you check out the X4.
Pros: The dual track looping unit will keep guitarists of all levels busy for an eternity, and offer a wider scope of looping possibilities than the smaller, cheaper pedals on this list.
Cons: May be too expensive for beginners not wanting to invest in a looping unit with so many features (and we totally get it too).
Recommended For: Experimental guitarists looking to push the boundaries of standard loop effects.
Loop Pedal Accessories & Must-Haves
If this is your first time buying a loop pedal, or even a guitar effects pedal, then there are a few pieces of equipment which you need to keep in mind. We’ve outlined just a handful of the must-haves which can make your life easier when it comes to getting a pedalboard or live looping setup sorted.
| Image | Item | View Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Boss BCB-30 Pedal Board | AMAZON | ||
 | Ruach Orange Tolex 1 Pedal Board | AMAZON | ||
 | Planet Waves Classic Patch Cable | AMAZON |
Loop Pedal Demos & Video Reviews
You’ve read the reviews, but how do you know which pedal is exactly right for you? We’ve included a top 5 selection of the favourites within our list, so you can see exactly how these pedals work, operate, sound and look.
Boss RC-1
Pigtronix Infinity Looper
Boss RC-30
Electro Harmonix Canyon Delay
Digitech Trio
Frequently Asked Loop Pedal Questions
What Loop Pedal Does Ed Sheeran Use?
Ed Sheeran is a huge fan, as we are, of the Boss Rc-30. This is what he started off with, before graduating to the BC-300 and then on to his own custom pedals which are put together just for him.
Is Using A Loop Pedal Difficult?
Like any pedal, it all depends on the degree of difficulty and the amount of features and controls on the pedal which dictates the degrees of difficulty the user is likely to experience. We recommend starting with one of the smaller pedals on our list, before diving into a dual-track or something similar so you can work your way up to multi-track wonders.
Are Loop Pedals Worth It?
This all depends on what you want to use one for! If you’re looking to just see what all the fuss is about, then start with a low-cost pedal. You will not regret it.
Loved what you just read? Why not check out our ultimate guide to the best overdrive pedals? We also cover the best guitar stands over at our users guide too. Happy reading!
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