Mooer Audio was founded in 2010 by four friends in Shenzhen, China, who combined expertise in digital algorithms, hardware engineering, manufacturing, and sales to build a music technology company. The brand first gained widespread attention through its Micro series — a range of compact digital stompboxes that delivered classic effects types in miniature enclosures, covering categories such as overdrive, delay, reverb, phaser, and modulation. The Micro series resonated strongly with online guitar communities and helped establish Mooer's reputation for affordable, space-efficient pedals that punch above their size.

From its origins in micro-pedals, Mooer broadened into a wider catalog of professional audio gear. The Micro Preamp series brought amp simulation in compact form factors, while the GE200, GE300, and related multi-effects units combined amp modeling, cabinet IR loading, polyphonic synthesizer functions, and extensive effects processing into floor-based systems suited for stage and studio use. Products like the RADAR IR cabinet loader and PREAMP LIVE preamp modeler further extended the company into dedicated recording and live-performance tools, and the TRUCK series addressed pedalboard and signal routing needs.

Mooer's most prominent artist collaboration is with Canadian musician and producer Devin Townsend, whose partnership with the brand yielded the Ocean Machine — a combined dual delay, reverb, and looper pedal developed over two years to meet Townsend's specific creative requirements. A follow-up produced the Ocean Machine II, an updated version developed with Townsend's continued involvement. Mooer's tagline, "Small, Smart, Original," reflects the company's focus on compact form factors, innovative features, and accessible pricing across its product range.

Mooer has 194 products cataloged on Equipboard, including Multi Effects Pedals, Amp & Cabinet Simulators, and Overdrive Effects Pedals. Their gear is featured by 209 artists, with the strongest followings in Rock, Pop, and Metal. Notable users include Gary Holt, Zoltán Farkas, and Ola Englund. Most Mooer products sit on the budget-friendly end of the spectrum.