AudioFuAudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best Sustain Pedals 2026
The top pick is Yamaha FC4A Sustain Pedal/Footswitch Controller ($88). Roland DP-2 Damper Pedal gives you the most for the money at $20. Roland KPD-90 Pedal Board Unit leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 41 models across 16 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 14, 2026
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All Sustain PedalsTop 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Yamaha FC4A Sustain Pedal / Footswitch Controller
FC 3A · Yamaha
33 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The FC 3A is a solid, dependable sustain pedal – a real workhorse for stage and studio. It's a fantastic choice for keyboard players needing reliable half-pedaling functionality without the premium price tag, especially those using Yamaha instruments or needing broad compatibility.
Pros
- Robust plastic construction ensures reliable gigging durability
- Stereo jack provides broader compatibility with modern digital pianos
- Half-pedaling functionality adds nuanced expressive control
Cons
- The plastic action lacks the subtle feel of a premium, wooden-core pedal
- Basic design offers no adjustable tension or damping options
69AudioFu
Index↓ 3.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far$92 · Aug 14$88 now$88€79 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The LP-1 WH is a perfectly functional, budget-friendly sustain pedal designed primarily for Yamaha’s entry-level digital pianos. It covers the basics well, offering three pedal functions, and its white finish is a nice touch for aesthetics. This is a great, no-frills option for students or anyone needing a reliable pedal without wanting to spend a fortune.
Pros
- Solid, reliable Yamaha build quality ensures longevity.
- Provides damper, sostenuto, and soft pedal functionality.
- White finish seamlessly integrates with modern digital pianos.
Cons
- Plastic construction feels a bit budget-oriented.
- Lacks the nuanced response of higher-end continuous pedals.
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The Roland KPD-70 Wh is a solid, budget-friendly pedal unit if you're already in the Roland ecosystem. It's a great addition for players of the FP-30, FP-30X, or FP-E50 who want authentic piano pedal functionality without breaking the bank—just remember you'll need that extra cable!
Pros
- Solid, dependable Roland build quality ensures long-term reliability.
- White finish complements modern, minimalist digital piano setups.
- Compatible with popular Roland stage pianos offering seamless integration.
Cons
- Requires separate purchase of connection cable (KSC-70 or KSFE50).
- Plastic construction, while functional, lacks the premium feel of metal pedals.
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The Boss FS-5U is a dependable workhorse – simple, affordable, and built to withstand the road. It's a great option for keyboardists needing a basic sustain function or guitarists wanting a reliable tap tempo control. Don't expect fancy features, but it gets the job done reliably.
Pros
- Robust plastic construction ensures durability for gigging
- Universal compatibility with keyboards, pedals, and more
- Simple, reliable switching action – no frills, just function
Cons
- Plastic construction feels less premium than metal alternatives
- Lacks half-pedal functionality, offering only on/off response
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The Roland DP-2 is a bare-bones, no-frills sustain pedal perfect for beginners or those needing a reliable backup. It's a workhorse – simple, functional, and gets the job done without any extra bells and whistles. Ideal for students and casual players who prioritize affordability over advanced features.
Pros
- Solid, dependable action for basic sustain functionality
- Durable plastic construction withstands gigging and practice
- 300 cm cable offers ample reach for stage setups
Cons
- Basic plastic construction lacks premium feel and longevity
- No half-pedal functionality limits expressive control
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- Weight2 kg
The FC35 is a solid, reliable triple-pedal unit for serious Yamaha digital piano players. It offers a surprisingly realistic feel thanks to the steel action and the half-pedal capability is a nice touch for expressive playing. Ideal for students and intermediate players wanting a more authentic piano experience.
Pros
- Solid steel action provides a responsive, realistic piano feel.
- Three-pedal functionality expands expressive possibilities beyond basic sustain.
- Durable ABS plastic construction ensures longevity and resists gigging wear.
Cons
- The weight (2kg) makes it less portable than lighter, single-pedal options.
- Limited compatibility; primarily designed for Yamaha digital pianos.
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This is a dedicated pedal unit for serious Roland FP-90 players who want that authentic acoustic piano feel. It's built well and integrates flawlessly with the Roland system, but be aware you *need* the matching stand to make it work – it's not a standalone solution.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Roland FP-90, KSC-90, and KSC-72 units.
- Robust construction using high-quality plastics and metal pedal components.
- Provides authentic piano pedal response, mimicking acoustic instrument feel.
Cons
- Requires Roland KSC-90 or KSC-72 stand – a significant additional expense.
- Limited compatibility; only works within the specified Roland ecosystem.
60AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$167 now$167€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
The Roland DP-10 is a surprisingly capable entry-level sustain pedal. It's a great, affordable option for students, gigging musicians needing a reliable backup, or anyone wanting basic sustain functionality without breaking the bank. Don't expect miracles, but it's a solid performer for the price.
Pros
- Solid, reliable action mimicking a piano pedal feel
- Long 190cm cable offers excellent placement flexibility
- Anti-slip rubber base prevents unwanted pedal movement
Cons
- Plastic construction feels budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
- Half-pedaling response can be slightly inconsistent
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This Kawai F-351 W is a no-fuss sustain pedal, purpose-built for the HML-2 W. It's a great, affordable option for students or anyone needing a reliable, basic damper pedal—it just does one thing, and it does it well.
Pros
- Solid, dependable Kawai build quality for consistent performance
- White finish complements Kawai HML-2 W digital pianos perfectly
- Simple, robust design ensures longevity and minimal maintenance
Cons
- Limited functionality compared to higher-end, multi-pedal units
- Designed specifically for Kawai HML-2 W, restricting wider compatibility
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The RPU-3 is a solid, practical choice for Roland digital piano owners wanting authentic grand piano pedal feel. It’s a good step up from basic single-pedal units, especially if you're into expressive playing and want that half-pedal nuance. Perfect for gigging musicians and home players wanting a realistic touch without a full acoustic piano.
Pros
- Solid construction with a weighted damper pedal for realistic feel
- Separate jack outputs offer nuanced pedal control and expression
- Half-pedal functionality adds subtle dynamic shaping to your playing
Cons
- Cable length (130cm) may be restrictive for some studio setups
- Plastic construction, while durable, lacks the premium feel of all-metal pedals
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 14Aug 14$149 now$149€133 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 41 sustain pedals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Fatar VFP2-10 1SFatar · 2 finishes50↓ 2.1%$53€47$53€47Check ↗
- 12
M-Audio SP-2 Sustain PedalSP-2 · M-Audio49Stable$20€18$20€18Check ↗
- 13
Fatar VFP2-15 2MFatar · 2 finishes49Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 14
Korg PS3 Single Momentary Keyboard FootswitchPS-3 · Korg47Stable$17€16$17€16Check ↗
- 15
M-Audio SP-1 Keyboard Sustain PedalSP-1 · M-Audio46Stable$17€15$17€15Check ↗
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Casio SP3 Sustain PedalSP-3 Sustain Pedal · Casio45Stable$25€22$25€22Check ↗
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Dexibell DX SP1Dexibell45↓ 16.3%$46€41$46€41Check ↗
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Dexibell DX CP1Dexibell45↓ 16.3%$46€41$46€41Check ↗
- 19
Casio SP20 Piano-Style Sustain PedalSP-20 Sustain Pedal · Casio45Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 20
Clavia Nord Single Sustain PedalClavia Nord45↓ 10.9%$55€49$55€49Check ↗
- 21
Kawai GFP-3Kawai45↓ 11.0%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
- 22
Korg DS1H Half Damper Pedal SwitchDS1 H · Korg44↑ 12.2%$62€55$62€55Check ↗
- 23
Korg PU-2 Three-Pedal UnitPU-2 · Korg44Stable$84€75$84€75Check ↗
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Clavia Nord Single Pedal 2Clavia Nord43↓ 7.2%$144€129$144€129Check ↗
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Fatar VFP1-25Fatar42Stable$28€25$28€25Check ↗
- 26
Fatar VFP-3-10Fatar42Stable$62€55$62€55Check ↗
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Fatar VFP3-15Fatar42Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 28
Yamaha FC 5 Sustain PedalYamaha41Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
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Studiologic SLP3-D Triple Sustain PedalSLP3-D · Studiologic41Stable$110€98$110€98Check ↗
- 30
Clavia Nord Triple PedalClavia Nord40Stable$234€209$234€209Check ↗
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Clavia Nord Triple Pedal 2Clavia Nord40Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
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Lead Foot LFD-10Lead Foot39Stable$7€6$7€6Check ↗
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Lead Foot LFD-1 MKIILead Foot39Stable$10€9$10€9Check ↗
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Lead Foot LFD-2Lead Foot39Stable$23€21$23€21Check ↗
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Kurzweil KP-2Kurzweil39Stable$39€35$39€35Check ↗
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Kurzweil KP-1Kurzweil39Stable$39€35$39€35Check ↗
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Nektar NP-2 Universal Sustain PedalNP-2 · Nektar37Stable$20€18$20€18Check ↗
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Kurzweil KP-3Kurzweil36↑ 5.5%$65€58$65€58Check ↗
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Miditech MP-1Miditech35Stable$18€16$18€16Check ↗
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Endorphin.es Plus 3 BlackEndorphin.es35Stable$87€78$87€78Check ↗
- 41
Kawai F-10 H FootswitchKawai34↑ 12.2%$62€55$62€55Check ↗
Sustain Pedals by the numbers
Measured across all 48 models we track, not a sample.
Median $62 — half of all sustain pedals here cost less.
How to choose the best sustain pedals
Action & Feel
This is huge. A mushy, unresponsive pedal is worse than no pedal at all. You want something that's clearly on or off, with a consistent feel - not a gradual fade-in/fade-out that messes with your dynamics. A stiff action can be fatiguing after a long set.
Voltage Compatibility
Most modern keyboards use 9V DC power, but older gear might need 6V or even a different polarity. Double-check your keyboard's requirements to avoid bricking your pedal - it's a common mistake.
Noise & Signal Integrity
A cheap pedal can introduce unwanted hum or noise into your signal chain, especially with sensitive synths. Look for pedals with good shielding and a clean signal path. A little hiss is one thing, but a constant buzz is a deal-breaker.
Durability & Build Quality
Gigging musicians know that gear takes a beating. A flimsy plastic enclosure and questionable wiring won't last long. Solid construction and robust components are essential for reliability.
Expression & Control
Some pedals offer extra features like adjustable sustain time or a velocity-sensitive response. While not essential, these can add a new layer of expressive control - particularly useful for evolving pads and textures.
Buying guide
Okay, let's talk sustain pedals. They're not just an afterthought for piano players - a good sustain pedal can breathe life into your Rhodes, add depth to your organ swells, or give your synths a truly evolving feel. Too many players skimp here, and it shows in their sound. We'll break down what to look for so you can stop settling for that weak, anemic sustain and start getting the vibe you're after.
Don't be fooled by cheap imitations. The biggest corner cut is usually in the internal components - that's where you'll hear the noise and feel the lack of responsiveness. Spending a bit more on a pedal from a reputable brand is an investment in your sound and your sanity.
For bedroom practice, a basic, reliable pedal is fine, but for gigging, you need something that can handle the abuse and deliver consistent performance.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 48 sustain pedals from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
What's the difference between a continuous and a switching sustain pedal?
Continuous pedals (like piano pedals) provide a gradual sustain level. Switching pedals are either fully on or fully off, like a guitar effects pedal. Most keyboard players want a switching pedal.
My keyboard says it needs a 'damper' pedal. Are those the same as sustain pedals?
Pretty much, yes. 'Damper' is just a more formal term, often used in the context of acoustic pianos. Sustain pedals are the modern equivalent for keyboards.
Can I use a guitar pedal as a sustain pedal?
Technically, yes, if it's a simple on/off switch. But it's rarely ideal - the feel will likely be off, and you might introduce unwanted noise or distortion. Stick with a dedicated keyboard sustain pedal.
My sustain pedal is making a buzzing noise. What can I do?
First, check your power supply and cables. A faulty power adapter or a loose connection can introduce noise. If that doesn't fix it, the pedal itself might be faulty and need repair or replacement.
Do I need an expression pedal for sustained sounds?
No, an expression pedal controls volume or effects parameters. A sustain pedal simply holds the note(s) you're playing. They serve different purposes, though you can certainly use them together for complex sounds.
