Boss DS-1 DistortionvsProCo RAT2 Distortion

Which is the better distortion pedal? Side-by-side comparison for 2026.

Boss DS-1 Distortion
Boss

Boss DS-1 Distortion

★★★★★4.6

$62

🛒 Buy on Amazon →Read full review →
ProCo RAT2 Distortion
ProCo

ProCo RAT2 Distortion

★★★★★4.7

$79

🛒 Buy on Amazon →Read full review →

⚡ Quick Verdict

The Boss DS-1 Distortion and ProCo RAT2 Distortion are closely matched — both are excellent choices. The Boss DS-1 Distortion suits rock and grunge players, while the ProCo RAT2 Distortion shines for rock and indie. Choose based on your genre and tone goals.

Side-by-Side Specs

DS-1 Distortion
RAT2 Distortion
Price
$62
$79
Rating
4.6 / 5 (4,100 reviews)
4.7 / 5 (1,900 reviews)
Bypass
Buffered Bypass
True Bypass
Voltage
9V DC
9V DC
Current Draw
20mA
6mA
Dimensions
73 × 129 × 59 mm
89 × 165 × 64 mm
Controls
Level, Tone, Dist
Volume, Filter, Distortion
Skill Level
Beginner
Intermediate

Pros & Cons Compared

Boss DS-1 Distortion

Pros
  • ✓Incredibly affordable
  • ✓Versatile distortion range
  • ✓Legendary status
  • ✓Reliable Boss build
Cons
  • ✗Can sound fizzy at extreme settings
  • ✗Some find it too bright

ProCo RAT2 Distortion

Pros
  • ✓Incredibly versatile
  • ✓Works as overdrive, distortion, or fuzz
  • ✓Unique filter control
  • ✓Classic rock tone
Cons
  • ✗Noisy at high gain
  • ✗Enclosure feels dated

Best For

Boss DS-1 Distortion

rockgrungepunkbeginner level

ProCo RAT2 Distortion

rockindieshoegazeintermediate level

Where to Buy

Boss DS-1 Distortion

$62

🛒 Buy on Amazon →Read full review →

ProCo RAT2 Distortion

$79

🛒 Buy on Amazon →Read full review →

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