Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 10 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (47)
$46.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (18)
$51.99
Amazon
4.7 (561)
$44.99
Reverb
5.0 (39)
$36.81 New
$12.84 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (33)
$51.99 $46.99 $5.00
zZounds
5.0 (3)
$51.99
B&H
4.9 (14)
$46.99
Thomann
4.8 (1063)
$44.00

Average Price: $44

Budget/Beginner

$60

$176+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Boss FS-5U". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Introducing the Boss FS-5U, a non-latching footswitch that's perfectly crafted to meet your unique musical needs. This compact and lightweight gear is specifically designed for musicians who require an effect that only engages when your foot is on it, making it perfect for spot delay or sustain. With its robust and durable construction, the FS-5U is built to withstand the rigors of live performances and prolonged use.

Boss offers two types of footswitches, and the FS-5U is a momentary-type footswitch, which means it lets you engage a function while holding down the switch. This offers you complete control over your effects, allowing you to add depth and texture to your music exactly when you need it.

Whether you're practicing at home, recording in the studio, or performing on stage, the Boss FS-5U is a vital addition to your gear setup. Its simple design and ease of use make it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced musicians alike.

Key Features:

  • Non-latching footswitch ideal for spot delay or sustain
  • Robust and durable construction built for prolonged use
  • Momentary-type footswitch that lets you engage a function while holding down the switch
  • Compact and lightweight design ideal for traveling musicians
  • Offers complete control over your effects
  • Practical and easy to use for musicians of all skill levels

Product specs

Polarity Switch Yes

FAQs

Does the Boss FS-5U footswitch require any power source or batteries?

No, the Boss FS-5U is a passive footswitch that does not require any power source or batteries to operate.

What is the difference between the Boss FS-5U and FS-5L footswitches?

The FS-5U is a momentary "unlatch" footswitch, while the FS-5L is a latch-type switch with an LED indicator. Both can be connected using standard guitar cables.

What type of cable should I use with the Boss FS-5U?

Use a 1/4" TS cable to connect the Boss FS-5U to compatible devices, such as control inputs on amplifiers or effects units.

Can the Boss FS-5U be used with keyboards or synthesizers?

Yes, the Boss FS-5U can be used with keyboards and synthesizers that support momentary footswitch inputs, making it versatile for various musical applications.

Does the Boss FS-5U have a polarity switch?

Yes, the Boss FS-5U includes a polarity switch, allowing it to be compatible with a wide range of devices by adjusting the switch to match the required polarity.

GearTestUA

GearTestUA

BOSS FS-5U, FS-5L, FS-6 Foot Switch - By GearTestUa

Video thumbnail for BOSS FS-5U, FS-5L, FS-6 Foot Switch - By GearTestUa by GearTestUA

BOSS FS-5U, FS-5L, FS-6 Foot Switch - By GearTestUa

GearTestUA

GearTestUA

Video thumbnail for Boss FS-5U Foot Switch | Reverb Demo Video by Reverb

Boss FS-5U Foot Switch | Reverb Demo Video

Reverb

Reverb

Video thumbnail for Boss FS-5U Review and Tear Down by Joby

Boss FS-5U Review and Tear Down

Joby

Joby

Video thumbnail for BOSS FS-5L & FS-5U Latching & Momentary Foot Switches by Cryptic Mask Guitar

BOSS FS-5L & FS-5U Latching & Momentary Foot Switches

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Cryptic Mask Guitar

Reviews

PROS

  • Enhances live performance with easy single-tap operation

  • Compatible with a wide range of devices (RC-1 Loop Pedal, Boss JS-8, SY-200, etc.)

  • Durable, heavy-duty construction expected to last indefinitely

  • Non-slip rubber pads ensure stability during use

  • Can be cable-tied for stationary placement

  • Polarity switch increases versatility for various setups

  • Side rail system allows for easy multi-unit attachment

  • Improves functionality of devices like metronomes and loop stations

  • Simplifies complex pedal operations (e.g., loop clearing without accidental playback)

  • Can be used as both a sustain pedal and a footswitch

CONS

  • Sharp edges may pose a risk of injury

  • Some units have reported cosmetic defects and poor craftsmanship

  • Quality control seems inconsistent across different batches

  • Certain users prefer newer models with additional functionalities

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss FS-5U.

Features and functionality

  • The FS-5U sends two signals: one when depressed and another when released, affecting trigger behavior.

    Source
  • The FS-5U is a passive momentary switch that shorts the tip to the sleeve, lacking debounce circuitry.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Connecting the FS-5U to the SPD-SX's footswitch 1/2 input allows it to function as a trigger.

    Source
  • Disconnecting cables without powering off the Boss looper can cause malfunctions, as per the manual.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Changing the polarity on the FS-5U ensures the trigger occurs upon depression rather than release.

    Source
  • Ensure the FS-5U is set to "normally closed" to avoid issues with Boss loopers, as they require this setting for proper operation.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The FS-5U can trigger samples on the SPD-SX without using hands, useful in live performance scenarios.

    Source
  • Shorting a regular guitar cable's tip and sleeve can simulate the FS-5U's momentary switch function for troubleshooting.

    Source
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 8 Reviews and 66 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
chapersdale

Perfect pedal extension

Bought this to use with my RC-1 Loop pedal and it's really helped me unlock the loops potential. I've also used it as an expression pedal on a few keyboards and it does that pretty well too.

Roles:
From Gear Setup
gillyribeiro

Stirdy and reliable

This is the no-compromise go-to pedal for a non-latching footswitch. Built like a tank, it will most likely outlive you and your band members, even if you all go to war. With a side switch to toggle between "normally open" and "normally closed" states, this pedal covers every use you can imagine.

erik_james

Does the job well, and it tough

This pedal is good., but there are better Boss switches now, such as the FS-7 dual footswitch with non-latching and latching functionality.

jamesnotjim

Does what I need. Built like a tank.

Right now, I use this as a tap tempo for my Boss AW-3 Auto Wah. I've used it for lots of other things in the past. It's solid and, if you need more than one, you can lock them together with a mechanism that's part of the case design.

From Gear Setup
sonnivate

tt

What the hell do you expect. It's a footswitch. It works. Moveonnextquestion

rickmeister4

Use it for all your unlatching needs!

I use the FS-5U with my Boss DD-7 perfect for tap tempo!

themobiusttriper

And Jesus wept

for there were no more mountains to conquer in the world of single-non-latching foots-witches. Life cruel sometimes -this is how life compensates. Thanks life.

mancio_23

SWITCH!

I use it with my Loop-Station RC-30 for switch between track 1 & 2

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Eric Clapton uses Boss FS-5U

Eric Clapton

Guitarist

Mark Knopfler’s Guitar Heroes

...
Verified via Photo

Eric Clapton uses these footswitches to work with his complicated pedalboard system which he uses now and then.

See how Jonny Greenwood uses Boss FS-5U

Jonny Greenwood

Guitarist

Radiohead

...
Verified via Photo

The Boss FS-5U pedal can be confirmed as part of Jonny Greenwood's setup for the 2025 Radiohead Tour, as evidenced by an image showing his equipment.

See how Flea uses Boss FS-5U

Flea

Bassist

Red Hot Chili Peppers

...
Verified via Photo

In this RHCPtv1 episode you can see Flea using a boss fs-5u non-latching footswitch in the top left corner of his pedalboard at 0:09.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3_ViD0bYHQ&list=WL&index=3

See how Matthew Bellamy uses Boss FS-5U

Matthew Bellamy

Singer, Guitarist

Muse

...
Verified via YouTube

From Muse guitar tech Jason Baskin: "...a hold pedal for the reverb pedal in there"

See how Kirk Hammett uses Boss FS-5U

Kirk Hammett

Guitarist

Metallica

...
Verified via YouTube

At 18:14 in this video, Kirk Hammett's rig is also shown to consist of a Boss FS-5U.

See how Dimebag Darrell uses Boss FS-5U

Dimebag Darrell

Guitarist

Pantera

...
Verified via Google

Dimebag Darrell is associated with the Boss FS-5U switch effects pedal, as shown in images available through a Google search for "Dimebag Darrell RM100."

See how Steve Vai uses Boss FS-5U

Steve Vai

Guitarist

Whitesnake

...
Verified via YouTube

The Boss FS-5U Nonlatching Footswitch is seen in Steve Vai's pedalboard during a rig rundown.

See how Mike Kerr uses Boss FS-5U

Mike Kerr

Singer, Bassist

Royal Blood

...
Verified via Flickr

In Brian Schwartz's photo from Flickr, Mike Kerr is shown using a Boss FS-5U, likely to control a pitch shifter, replacing his previous EHX Pitch Fork setup.

See how Ed O'Brien uses Boss FS-5U

Ed O'Brien

Guitarist, Singer

Radiohead

...
Verified via Thekingofgear

"Used as a tap tempo for his Boss DD5’s."

See how Josh Dun uses Boss FS-5U

Josh Dun

Drummer, Composer

Twenty One Pilots

...
Verified via YouTube

Josh explains in this video that in conjuction with his Roland SPD-SX and Ableton, he uses a footswitch to choose when the band's backing tracks start and stop, and at 1:43 you can see it in action.

See how Lee Malia uses Boss FS-5U

Lee Malia

Guitarist

Bring Me The Horizon

...
Verified via YouTube

A Boss FS-5U can be seen on Lee's pedalboard at 16:00 in this rig rundown video.

See how Neil Halstead uses Boss FS-5U

Neil Halstead

Singer, Guitarist

Slowdive

...
Verified via Flickr

In this photo, which shows Halstead performing with Slowdive at the 2017 Paris concert, the Boss FS-5U can be seen underneath his feet.

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss FS-5U, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

Show yours
chapersdale

chapersdale

Gear IQ 1086

jamesnotjim

jamesnotjim

Gear IQ 367

martin_gotte

martin_gotte

Gear IQ 995

zaza_3121

zaza_3121

Gear IQ 476

nick_rondou

nick_rondou

Gear IQ 63

zaza_3121

zaza_3121

Gear IQ 476

zaza_3121

zaza_3121

Gear IQ 476

marcelo_carboni

marcelo_carboni

Gear IQ 1370

O

oliver_martin

Gear IQ 210

ivan_soliton

ivan_soliton

Gear IQ 214

marcelo_carboni

marcelo_carboni

Gear IQ 1370

jeremy_roy

jeremy_roy

Gear IQ 67

2 alternative and related items for Boss FS-5U, curated by the Equipboard community.

Boss FS-5L Latching Footswitch

$36.81 - $51.99

similar sound

The FS-5L is the latching version of the FS-5U. Similar in all other features.

Boss FS-6 Dual Foot Switch

$61.11 - $93.99

high-end alternative

The FS-6 is a "twin" version of the FS-5U, with switchable option to convert the FS-5U (unlatching) into a FS-5L (latching).

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