Best
AFFORDABLE ELECTRONIC DRUM SET
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Overall: 7-piece mesh compact electronic drum kit ideal for any living environment
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Best Feature: Includes drumsticks, headphones, drum key, cable wraps, and stool
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best
OVERALL
ELECTRONIC DRUM SET
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Overall: 8-piece electronic drum set with HDS240USB sound module ships ready to rock
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Best Feature: High Definition Sampling (HDS) technology provides an authentic drumming experience
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
ELECTRONIC
DRUM SET BUNDLE
Electronic
Drum Set
Essentials Bundle The Essential Bundle Every
Drummer Needs!
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Overall: Four drum pads and
three cymbal pads -
Best Feature: Integrated metronome and
coach functions for skill development -
TedScore™: 8/10
Finding the best electronic drum set under $500/£500 is achievable. It takes some searching, but once you find it, all the time you spend on it will be worth it.
But looking for the best electronic drum kits is not a walk in the park. Many great options are on the market, and all have enticing features that make you think they’re for you!
So, how would you know which one to buy?
Fear not, however!
As a drummer, I have listed my recommended affordable electronic drum sets that I have personally tried and played with.
When talking about an affordable electronic kit, I always recommend the Behringer XD80USB Electronic Drum Set because of its responsive pads and quality despite its price.
But read on! I have other recommendations for you that are worth checking.
Factors to Consider
When Buying an
Electronic Drum Set
When I’m looking for an electronic drum set, especially one under 500, I focus on two main aspects: the cost and what I’m actually getting for the money.
Let’s explore what makes these points crucial for drummers on a budget.
Price Point: Staying Under 500
I always start by setting a strict budget.
Keeping expenses under 500 is paramount for bargain hunters, but I also look for the best value within this price range. It’s a balancing act between affordability and practicality.
Kit Components and Build Quality
I pay close attention to the kit’s components.
I need to know if it includes essentials such as a snare drum, tom, cymbals, and bass pedals. I also examined the build quality, and sturdiness was key.
Next, I look at the pads.
Rubber pads can be quite durable and are common in budget sets, but if I can find mesh heads or mesh pads within my budget, I go for those—they offer a more realistic feel when I’m drumming away.
Compactness is another feature I consider important. As a drummer with limited space, I look for a set that literally doesn’t cram my style.
This meticulous evaluation ensures that my sub-500 investment hits all the right notes for quality, playability, and longevity.
Key Features of
Electronic Drum Sets
Now, for this part, let’s review the essential components an electric drum must have.
This will help you decide which recommended electronic drum sets suit you!
Drum Module and Sound Options
The heart of my drum set is the drum module.
It’s packed with various preloaded sounds and kits, and I expect at least a hundred sounds to mix things up. Some models even let me add my own samples—now that’s what I call personalizing my beat!
Mesh Heads vs. Rubber Pads
It’s the tactile feel that sets mesh heads and rubber pads apart.
Mesh: gives a realistic drumming experience, offering a rebound that mimics an acoustic set.
Rubber pads: have a firmer feel and the bonus perk of durability and a lower cost.
Connectivity Features
Here’s where it gets techy—connectivity!
USB port: I need it to connect my set to a computer for recording.
MIDI support: this is crucial for music production, and USB MIDI becomes the bridge there.
Bluetooth: That’s my wireless gateway to play along with my favorite tracks or apps!
Popular Brands and Models
Now, let the fun begin!
Since we’ve discussed the crucial points to consider before choosing an electronic kit, I’d like to share my recommendations for electronic drum sets under 500.
Alesis Drum Sets Overview
Alesis knows how to drum up excitement with their kits, especially the Alesis Nitro Mesh.
It’s like they packed all the essentials into a budget-friendly bundle.
The mesh heads give you that acoustic feel that’s music to any drummer’s ears.
Alesis Nitro Mesh
plenty of features
COMES WITH: Complete kit
FEATURES: Dual Zone trigger on the snare
Alesis Nitro Mesh
- 350 built-in sound
- Upgrade options for enhanced performance
- Remote hi-hat pedal
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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 E-Kits
Yamaha steps up the game with the DTX402K, boasting durable pads and an interactive training module.
It’s great for beginners looking to kick-start their drumming journey.
They offer that sweet blend of quality and affordability, so my wallet and I give them a standing ovation!
Yamaha DTX402K Electronic Drum Kit
FEATURES: Authentic drumming experience with 10 built-in drum kits and 10 play-along songs
OTHER INFO: Innovative learning functions including easy-to-use training modes
- Realistic sound and feel of an acoustic drum kit
- Versatile and customizable drum settings
- Great value for the price
- Limited number of drum pads compared to higher-end models
- May require additional accessories for expanded functionality
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Roland Electronic Kits
Roland’s beats are hard to miss, and the Roland TD-02K resonates with me for good reason.
The kit aspires to go beyond the entry-level tag, inching closer to pro territory with enhanced sound and performance features.
Roland V-Drums TD-02K Electronic Drum Set Essentials Bundle
FEATURES: Four drum pads and three cymbal pads
OTHER INFO: Integrated metronome and coach functions for skill development
- Compact size suitable for small spaces and easy storage
- Quality sounds and responsive pads provide a satisfying playing experience
- Includes drum throne, drum sticks, and headphones in the essentials bundle
- Some experienced drummers may find the pad sizes too small
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Behringer Electronic Kits
Behringer XD80USB might fly under the radar, but trust me; their kits are like hidden gems in the rough.
Budget-conscious drummers can buy a kit that doesn’t compromise on sound. This is a win-win situation for beginners and seasoned drummers alike.
Behringer XD80USB Electronic Drum Set
FEATURES: 8-piece electronic drum set with HDS240USB sound module ships ready to rock
OTHER INFO: High Definition Sampling (HDS) technology provides an authentic drumming experience
- Realistic and natural playing pads and cymbals make transitioning between electric and acoustic easy
- Built-in metronome and sequencer for play-along practice and performance
- Includes multipin cable for quickly connecting all of your pads to the sound module
- No Cons!
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Ddrum Electronic Kits
Checking out ddrum E-Flex is like a treasure hunt.
Their kits are packed with features that often make me double-take at the price tag.
Their responsive pads have been known to make practicing more addictive than having a cup of morning coffee.
ddrum E-Flex BT8 8-piece Electronic Drum Set
FEATURES: 8-piece versatility to give drummers that balanced kit feel, even within its compact package
OTHER INFO: 9-inch rubber-edged cymbal pads with a crash and ride choke, plus ride bell, deliver natural responsiveness
- Compact wireless drum kit, perfect for apartments, dorms, bedrooms, quiet practice, and beginners
- 6-inch mesh drum pads respond with impressive realism
- Provided drum throne, stick holder, and drumstick pair get you drumming right out of the box
- Durability concerns with prolonged heavy use
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Visiondrum Electronic Kits
If you haven’t heard of Visiondrum yet, let me introduce you to it.
They are the new kids on the block, but they’re quickly carving out a spot in the market. Their kits often include great features that cater to tech-savvy drummers.
VISIONDRUM Electronic Drum Kit with Stool and Headphones
FEATURES: 7-piece mesh compact electronic drum kit ideal for any living environment
OTHER INFO: Includes drumsticks, headphones, drum key, cable wraps, and stool
- Features 12 high-quality drum kits with ten play-along songs
- The adjustable height design makes it ideal for players of any age
- Pads may not offer the same feel or sensitivity as more expensive models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Premier Electronic Kits
The name Premier PowerPlay carries a certain grandeur, and its electronic kits live up to it in an affordable fashion.
They focus on bringing the authentic drumming experience to your living room—or garage if that’s where you like to jam out.
Premier PowerPlay Digital Drum Kit Pack
FEATURES: Includes 25 preset kits, 25 user kits, and 25 practice songs
OTHER INFO: Curate your signature drum sound via 423 fully customizable samples
- Premier's first digital drum kit
- Includes a pair of stereo headphones and drum throne
- The drum and cymbal pads may not offer the most realistic stick rebound
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Gear4music Electronic Kits
Finally, Gear4music doesn’t just sell instruments; they also whip up their own brand of electronic drum kits.
Their Digital Drums 520 often strikes a chord with my frugal side, offering quality sounds and various features that don’t demand a gold-record budget.
Digital Drums 520 Electronic Drum Kit by Gear4music
FEATURES: Full-featured, cutting-edge electric kit with over 300 superb sounds
OTHER INFO: Realistic feel from multi-zone, mesh drum heads and choke-able cymbals
- Curate and instantly recall up to 10 user kits, or use one of 15 preset options
- Create organic sounds by fine-tuning each drum's tone, FX, and more
- Some users may find the pad sensitivity and response not as refined
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Accessories for
Electronic Drum Sets
When I think about electronic drumming, it’s not just the kit that matters—it’s also the accessories that really enhance the experience.
These extras are invaluable, from the nuts and bolts of assembly to the personal comfort items.
If you want to know more about drum accessories, read 11 DRUMMING ACCESSORIES.
Essential Hardware
I’ve found that the kick drum pedal is the backbone of any drum kit.
A good pedal doesn’t have to break the bank, but it does need to be responsive and durable. Sturdy construction and adjustability are key features to look for.
And for those who like to bring the thunder, a double bass drum pedal is a must. It allows for that rapid-fire thud that gets any foot tapping!
Drum Thrones to Headphones
A solid drum throne can be the difference between a good session and a great one.
Its comfort is not just a luxury; it’s essential for those longer practice sessions. Looking for one with both height adjustment and padding is a smart move.
Next up, headphones!
They are my best friend when playing late at night. The right pair blocks out external noise and delivers the crisp sound of my playing directly into my ears, allowing me to focus and get lost in the music.
The ANKER Soundcore Life Q30 headphones offer impressive noise cancellation and comfortable wear, making them a fantastic value for their price point.
Anker Life Q30
COMES WITH: Noise Cancelling
FEATURES: Text
Anker Life Q30
- Affordable
- Great sound quality for the price
- Wireless headphones
- Limited quality compared with more premium models
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
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™.
Expansion and Upgradability
If you think having a budgeted electronic kit is a dead end, let me tell you it’s not. It’s thrilling to think there’s room to grow your kit, even on a budget.
Adding More Pads and Cymbals
I’ve noticed most budget-friendly electronic kits come with a standard setup, which is great to start with.
But here’s the kicker: They often have ports that allow you to add extra pads and cymbals.
A new crash or a second snare can elevate your playing experience, and thankfully, adding these isn’t always a wallet-emptying affair.
Individual cymbals and pads are available and won’t break your pockets (Another standing ovation from me and my wallet!).
Software Upgrades
Did you know that your electronic drum set’s brain (I’m talking about its software. haha) can get smarter?
Many budget kits offer free software updates that can improve sound quality and functionality. By downloading the latest firmware, you can essentially get an upgraded kit without spending extra.
If the stock sounds aren’t cutting it, you can typically buy and install new sound packs, ensuring your beats are always fresh and your kit continuously evolves.
Best Electronic Drum Set Under 500:
Let's Recap!
Finding the right affordable electronic drum set can be a thrilling journey for drummers at the beginning of their musical path.
I’ve spotlighted options that combine quality with affordability, making them perfect for novices.
- Behringer XD80USB - My top choice!
- Alesis Nitro Mesh
- Yamaha DTX402K
- Roland TD-02K
- ddrum E-Flex
- VISIONDRUM Electronic Drum Kit
- Premier PowerPlay
- Gear4music Digital Drums 520
I urge beginners to consider these sets worthy investments in their drumming careers. After all, a good start is half the battle won.
Happy drumming!
That’s not all! I have last-minute news for you!
If you’re considering getting an electronic drum kit, you should also start looking for an amplifier. This next article will give you the best electronic drum amplifiers for your e-drum. Check it out!
This is such a helpful guide for someone like me who knows nothing about drum sets. I’m looking for an affordable option for my son’s birthday, and the section about staying under 500 really narrowed it down. Thanks for the breakdown, makes my decision easier!
Regarding the Alesis vs. Yamaha comparison, I think it ultimately comes down to what you value more in a drum kit. Alesis often offers more bang for your buck with features but Yamaha tends to have better build quality and sounds. It’s more about your priorities and playing style than a clear cut answer.
awesome seeing all the brands in one place saves me a lot of googling lol
Hey Sam Jowett, got a question about mesh heads vs. rubber pads. Been playing acoustic for years but thinking of switching to electronic for the home. Is there a huge difference in feel? Worried I might not adjust well. Thanks!
MarvinG, I made the switch to electronic drums last year and noticed a significant difference at first. The mesh heads offer a more realistic feel similar to acoustic drums, with better rebound compared to rubber pads. It might take a bit to adjust, but it’s worth it for the versatility and volume control of electronic sets.