Best
Young Beginner Drum Kit
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Overall: Compact size makes it perfect for younger players
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Best Feature: 9-ply poplar shells provide a warm and resonant sound
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best
Overall Beginner Drum Set
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Overall: The affordable price point for an entry-level drum set
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Best Feature: Durable construction for long-lasting use
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TedScore™: 9.5/10
Best
Adult Beginner Drum Kit
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Overall: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
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Best Feature: Perfect for various genres, especially rock
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TedScore™: 8.5/10
If you’re a beginner looking to buy your first drum set, you might feel overwhelmed by the many options available.
With so many brands, sizes, and styles, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why I’ve compiled this guide to help you find the best drum kit for your needs.
In this article, I’ll look at some of the best drum sets for beginners. I’ve researched and reviewed various options to help you make an informed decision, and I’ll reveal my favorite drum set for beginners.
I’ll also provide tips on what to look for when buying a drum set, including factors like price, sound quality, and durability.
So, whether you’re a beginner or an aspiring drummer, read on to find the perfect drum set for you!
The Basics of Drum Sets
If you’re a beginner, the world of drumming can be overwhelming. With so many different types of drum sets and drum kits available, it’s hard to know where to start.
What is a Drum Set?
A drum set, also known as a drum kit, is a collection of percussion instruments played together to create music.
A typical drum set consists of a bass drum, a snare drum, one or more tom-tom drums, and a cymbal. Some drum sets may include additional percussion instruments like a hi-hat, a ride cymbal, or a crash cymbal.
Types of Drum Sets
Several different types of drum sets are available, each with its unique sound and style. Here are some of the most common types of drum sets:
Acoustic
Drum Sets
Electronic
Drum Sets
Hybrid
Drum Sets
Essential Components of a Drum Set
When it comes to drumming, having the right equipment is essential. Knowing the components of a drum set can be challenging for a beginner.
The Snare Drum
The snare drum is the most important in a drum set. It produces a sharp, crisp sound that cuts through the mix.
It’s usually placed in the drum set’s centre and played with a pair of drumsticks. The snare drum is used for backbeats, fills, and rolls.
The Bass Drum
The bass drum is the largest drum in the drum set, producing a deep, low sound. It’s played with a bass drum pedal attached to the drum.
The bass drum provides the foundation for the rhythm and is usually played on a measure’s first and third beats.
The Toms
Toms are smaller drums that produce a higher pitch than the bass drum. They’re usually placed above the bass drum and are played with drumsticks.
Toms are used for fills and solos and can add depth to the overall sound of the drum set.
The Cymbals
Cymbals are metal plates that produce a bright, shimmering sound. They’re usually placed on stands and are played with drumsticks or mallets.
There are different types of cymbals, including the ride cymbal, crash cymbal, hi-hat cymbals, china cymbal, and splash cymbal. Each cymbal produces a unique sound and is used for different purposes.
The Hardware
Hardware is the equipment that holds the drum set together. It includes the drum throne, hi-hat stand, cymbal stands, and boom stand.
The drum throne is a stool that the drummer sits on while playing. The hi-hat stand holds the hi-hat cymbals, while the cymbal stands hold the other cymbals. The boom stand is used to hold the toms.
Choosing the Right Drum Set Size
When choosing a drum set, size is one of the most important factors. The drum set’s size will affect the kit’s sound, playability, and portability.
Here are some things to remember when selecting the right size drum set for you.
Full-Sized Drum Sets
Full-sized drum sets are the most common and popular option for beginners. They usually come with a 20” bass drum, the standard size for most drum sets.
A full-sized drum set typically includes a snare, bass drum, two rack toms, a floor tom, hi-hat, crash cymbal, and ride cymbal. This size is perfect for those who want a traditional drum set sound and feel.
Compact Drum Sets
Compact drum sets are a great option for those who have limited space or need a kit that is easy to transport. These beginner drum kits usually have an 18” bass drum and fewer drums and cymbals than a full-sized kit.
While the sound may not be as full as a full-sized kit, compact drum sets can still produce a great sound and are perfect for practice or small gigs.
Drum Sizes
When selecting a drum set, it’s essential to consider the sizes of the individual drums. The size of the drum will affect the sound and playability of the kit.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Bass Drum: The larger the bass drum, the deeper and more powerful the sound. A 20” bass drum is the standard size for most drum sets.
Snare Drum: A 14” snare drum is the most common size and produces a versatile sound.
Toms: Rack toms are usually 10”-12” in diameter, while floor toms are usually 14”-16” in diameter. Larger toms produce a deeper sound, while smaller toms are more focused and articulate.
Quality and Durability
When buying a used instrument or new drum set, quality and durability are essential factors to consider.
Investing in a high-quality drum set ensures you get the best sound and performance, while durability ensures that your drum set lasts for a long time.
One of the most critical aspects of quality is the build quality of the drum set. A well-built drum set will provide excellent sound quality and performance while sturdy and long-lasting.
Durable hardware is also crucial, ensuring the drum set stays in place and does not wobble or move around during use.
Drum shells are another critical component of a drum set. Poplar shells are popular for beginners due to their affordability and durability. Poplar wood is lightweight and produces a warm, balanced sound that is perfect for beginners.
Regarding durability, choosing a drum set that can withstand regular use is essential. Look for drum sets with sturdy hardware and durable shells that can handle frequent playing and transport.
A durable drum set will last for years, even with regular use.
Sound and Tone
When shopping for a beginner drum kit, it’s essential to consider the sound and tone of the kit. The sound of a drum set can be affected by various factors, such as the shell material, drumheads, and cymbals.
The shell material can significantly affect the sound of a drum. Poplar shells are popular for beginners as they are affordable and produce a warm tone.
However, maple or birch shells are a better option if you’re looking for a more professional sound.
Drumheads also play a crucial role in the sound of a drum set.
Most beginner kit drum sets come with stock drumheads, usually of average quality. Upgrading to higher-quality drumheads can significantly improve the sound of the kit.
The sustain and dampening of a drum set can also affect its tone. A kit with a longer sustain will produce a more resonant sound, while a shorter one will produce a more focused sound.
Dampening can be achieved through various methods, such as using dampening rings or applying tape to the drumheads.
When it comes to cymbals, most beginner drum sets come with low-quality cymbals. Upgrading to higher-quality cymbals can significantly improve the sound of the kit.
Best Drum Sets for Young Beginners
Pearl Roadshow Junior
The Pearl Roadshow Junior is a high-quality drum set for young drummers. It features a 16″ bass drum, 10″ tom, 13″ floor tom, and a 12″ snare drum, all made with durable poplar wood shells.
The drum set comes with cymbals, hardware, and drumsticks, making it a complete package for young drummers looking to get started.
FEATURES: Cymbal and hi-hat stands are included, making it a complete drum set package
OTHER INFO: 9-ply poplar shells provide a warm and resonant sound
Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit, Jet Black
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Compact size makes it perfect for younger players or those with limited space
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for beginners
- Limited sound options compared to larger, more advanced drum sets
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ludwig Questlove Pocket Kit
The Ludwig Questlove Pocket Kit is a compact, portable drum set for young and small beginners. It features a 16″ bass drum, 10″ tom, 13″ floor tom, and a 12″ snare drum, all made with durable poplar wood shells.
The set also comes with cymbals, hardware, and drumsticks, making it a complete package for young drummers looking to get started.
FEATURES: Easy to assemble and disassemble for quick setup and storage
OTHER INFO: Compact 4-piece drum set with poplar wood shells for durability
Ludwig LC178X025 Questlove Pocket Kit 4-Piece Drum Set
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Comes with cymbals, hardware, and drumsticks
- Not suitable for advanced players
Gammon Junior Starter Drum Kit
The Gammon Junior Starter Drum Kit features a 16″ bass drum, 10″ tom, 13″ floor tom, snare stand, and a 12″ snare drum, all made with durable wood shells.
The set also comes with cymbals, hardware, and drumsticks, making it a complete package for young drummers looking to get started.
FEATURES: Adjustable hardware for a comfortable playing experience
OTHER INFO: Includes drumsticks, cymbals, and hardware for a complete package
Gammon Percussion 5-Piece Junior Starter Drum Kit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Affordable price
- Durable construction
- Limited sound range only
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Best Drum Sets For Adult Beginners
Pearl Roadshow
This 5-piece drum set is perfect for beginners, complete with cymbals and hardware to get you jamming in no time.
With its top-notch sound quality and sturdy construction, the Pearl Roadshow is the perfect choice for any wannabe rockstar! And yup – you’ve guessed it – this is the instrument that is my favourite drumset for beginners!
PERFECT FOR: Beginners and intermediate drummers
FEATURES: 9-ply poplar shells for a warm and punchy sound
OTHER INFO: Double-braced hardware for durability and stability
Pearl Roadshow 5pc USA Fusion Drum Kit w/Sabian Cymbals
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Cymbals included: 16" crash/ride and 14" hi-hats
- The affordable price point for an entry-level drum set
- Comes with everything you need to get started
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Great sound quality for the price
- Available in multiple finishes to suit your style
- Not as high-quality as more expensive drum sets
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch
The Yamaha Stage Custom is perfect for beginners who want to rock out in style!
With 100% birch shells, this mid-range flagship drum set delivers a quick attack, tight sound, and short decay that’s perfect for any style of music.
And with its traditional ball mounts and clamps, you can customize your setup to suit your needs and style.
PERFECT FOR: beginner to intermediate players
FEATURES: 6-ply birch shell construction provides cutting drum tones
OTHER INFO: Yamaha Enhanced Sustain System ensures clear drum sounds can be achieved
Yamaha Stage Custom Birch 20'' 5pc Shell Pack
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Ball mount and clamp deliver a secure playing experience
- With a large range of technologies and features to improve your overall drumming experience
- Provides playing stability with an equally professional sound
- This Yamaha shell pack does not include cymbals or hardware
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Ludwig Accent Drive
The Ludwig Accent Drive is the perfect drum set for beginners who want excellent value for their money! With a 5-piece configuration that includes a bass drum, snare drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom, this set has everything you need to get started.
And with poplar wood shells that produce a warm and balanced tone, you’ll be rocking out in no time! Plus, with cymbals, drum thrones, and drumsticks included, you’ll have everything you need to hit the ground running.
PERFECT FOR: beginners
FEATURES: With a 45-degree bearing edge for a healthy combination of attack and sustain
OTHER INFO: Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
Ludwig Accent 22'' Drive 5pc Drum Kit, Silver Sparkle
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Deep 22" bass drum projects depth and volume
- Perfect for various genres, especially rock
- A drum kit with plenty of volume
- The cymbals included in the kit may not be of the best quality.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Alesis Nitro Mesh
The Alesis Nitro Mesh is an electronic drum set with mesh drum heads for a realistic and comfortable playing experience.
With its 40 preset drum kits and hundreds of sounds, the Alesis Nitro Mesh is a versatile and affordable option for drummers of all levels.
I’ve done a full review of the Nitro Mesh here.
PERFECT FOR: Beginner drummers
FEATURES: Mesh drum heads for a realistic playing experience
OTHER INFO: 8" dual-zone snare pad for rim shots and cross-sticks
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Three 8" tom pads and three 10" cymbal pads
- Hi-hat controller pedal and kick pedal included
- Quieter than traditional acoustic drum sets
- Realistic playing experience with mesh drum heads
- Nitro drum module offers a wide range of sounds and features
- May not be suitable for advanced drummers who require a more complex and customizable drum set
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Tama Imperialstar
This drum set has everything you need to get started, including drums, hardware, and Meinl HCS cymbals.
With poplar wood shells that produce a warm tone and double-braced hardware for stability during heavy playing, this set is perfect for drummers of any genre.
The matching wood hoops on the bass drum add a stylish touch that will turn heads.
PERFECT FOR: professionals and beginners alike
FEATURES: Omnisphere tom holder offers optimum positioning
OTHER INFO: Poplar shells deliver power and versatility
Tama Imperialstar 22'' 5pc Drum Kit
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Accu-tune bass drum hoops deliver tuning accuracy
- Delivers a dynamic response with powerful attack and bright tones
- Comes with chrome hardware that perfectly complements the overall quality aesthetic
- The drum throne included in the kit may not be comfortable for extended playing sessions.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Budget Considerations
Budget is an important consideration when buying a drum set as a beginner. You want to find a set that offers value for money without breaking the bank.
A simple 5-piece drum set with cymbals is a good option for beginners and can cost anywhere from £/$300 to £/$700.
It’s important to remember that higher-priced sets may offer better quality and durability but may not be necessary for a beginner.
It’s also important to consider additional costs such as drumsticks, a drum throne, and a practice pad.
Ultimately, finding a drum set that fits your budget and meets your needs as a beginner is key.
Setting Up Your Drum Set
So you’ve got your new drum set and are excited to start playing. But before you can rock out, you need to set it up. Don’t worry; it’s not as complicated as it might seem.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
First, make sure you have all the pieces you need. Most beginner drum sets come with drums, hardware, and cymbals.
The drums usually include the bass (or kick) drum, the snare drum, and toms. The hardware consists of the bass drum pedal, throne, hi-hat, and cymbal stands. And the cymbals, of course, are the crash, ride, and hi-hat cymbals.
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to start assembling your drum set. Here are the basic steps:
Place it where you want it and attach the bass drum pedal. Make sure the pedal is adjusted to your liking.
Place it between your legs, and adjust the height so that it’s comfortable to play.
There are different ways to set up your toms, but a common configuration is to place the smaller tom above the bass drum and the larger tom to the right of the snare drum.
The hi-hat cymbals should be placed on each other, with the bottom cymbal attached to the stand and the top cymbal attached to the hi-hat clutch.
Once you have everything set up, it’s time to adjust the height and angle of each piece to your liking. Make sure everything is comfortable to play and within easy reach.
And don’t forget to add a drum rug or mat to keep your kit from sliding around.
And that’s it!
With patience and careful adjustments, you’ll be ready to start playing your new drum set quickly.
Practising and Playing
Practising and playing are essential to your drumming journey as a beginner drummer.
It’s essential to have a practice kit suitable for your needs, especially if you’re playing in a low-volume environment or living in an apartment.
One option is to consider using electronic drums, which allows you to practice without disturbing your neighbours. Electronic drum sets are also great for recording and playing along with your favourite songs.
However, if you prefer the feel and sound of an acoustic drum set, options are available for low-volume playing drums. These sets often feature smaller drums and cymbals, which produce less volume but still provide a realistic drumming experience.
Once you feel comfortable with your practice kit, it’s essential to start playing with other musicians. Joining a band or jamming with friends is a great way to improve your drumming skills and learn how to play in a group setting.
When playing gigs, it’s important to have a drum set that can handle the demands of live performances.
Look for sets that are durable, easy to transport and set up, and have versatile sounds that can adapt to different genres of music.
Best Drum Sets for Beginners
Summary
Congratulations on taking the first step towards becoming a drummer!
Choosing the right drum set is crucial to your success as a beginner. With the proper set, you’ll be able to learn and grow as a drummer without facing unnecessary challenges.
My top picks for the best beginner drum sets offer high-quality sound and durability, making them ideal for beginners who want to learn and grow as professional drummers do.
When choosing a drum set, there are a few things to remember. First, consider your budget. You don’t want to overspend on a set you won’t use for long.
Second, think about the type of music you want to play. Different sets are better suited to different styles of music.
Finally, consider the size of the set. A smaller set may be easier to learn, but a larger one will give you more options as you progress.
Ultimately, the best beginner drum set for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
I hope our Ted’s List guide has helped you narrow your options and find the perfect set to kickstart your drumming journey.
Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep at it and have fun!
Before you go…
Are you ready to rock out without breaking the bank?
I’ve scoured the market to bring you the ultimate drumming experience that won’t leave a hole in your wallet. Jump into the next article for the big reveal!
FAQ's
A beginner should buy a drum set that is affordable and easy to play. A simple 5-piece drum set with cymbals is a good option for beginners.
A beginner drum set can cost anywhere from $300 to $700. It’s important to find and purchase a set that fits your budget and offers good quality for the price.
Yes, a 5-piece drum set is a good option for beginners. It provides enough pieces to play basic rhythms and allows for growth as the player progresses.
Yes, electric drums can be a good option for beginners. They are quieter than acoustic drums and offer a variety of sounds and features that can enhance the learning experience.