Best Kit For
Beginners On A Budget
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Designed For: Beginners
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Best Feature: Supports Acoustic Techniques Such As Choking Cymbals
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TedScore™: 7/10
Best Kit For
Beginners With A Bigger Budget
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Designed For: Beginners With A Healthy Budget
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Best Feature: Dual Zone Trigger On The Snare
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TedScore™: 8/10
Best Kit For
Ambitious Beginners
V-Drums GREAT FOR BEGINNERS TO Intermediate Players
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Designed For: Advanced Beginners to Intermediate
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Best Feature: Tuneable 12” Snare Drum Pad
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TedScore™: 9/10
Beginning the adventure with electronic drums is thrilling, yet picking the ideal electronic drum kit for newcomers can seem like wandering through a dense forest. So many choices exist, each offering distinct features and perks.
I’ve had my fair share of drumming adventures and want to share what I’ve learned. The Roland TD-17KVX V Drum stands out for beginners with its realistic mesh heads, Bluetooth connectivity, and a sleek module loaded with diverse sounds.
Are you ready to start making cool beats? Let’s check out the best electronic drum set for beginners!
Best electronic drum kit brands
Alesis
Alesis is my go-to suggestion when it comes to beginners. You tend to get more for your money, and their entry-level drum kits provide you with everything you need to not only get you going but take you to an intermediate stage. Their build quality and available drum sounds are also catching up with the big hitters. Have a listen to their nitro mesh kit here.
Roland
Roland. If build quality and sound quality are at the top of your agenda, then this is where you want to be looking. You will, however, need to spend more if you want more flexibility in your set-up and a proper bass drum pedal and hi-hat controller. Have a listen to their TD 1K here.
Yamaha
Yamaha sits up there with Roland, certainly when it comes to a professional setting. The big downside to Yamaha and Roland is unless you are willing to pay big money, the pad material will be rubber. Have a listen to their DTX402 here.
Behringer
Behringer is a budget-friendly brand, which isn’t at all a bad thing. The founder, Uli Behringer, once found himself unable to afford the equipment for his own studio, so he actually made his own. Not long afterwards, he was supplying his friends. This is where his philosophy of producing instruments at affordable prices comes from.
Where you will make the compromise will be on the quality of the construction, pad material and sound quality. For beginner drummers, this isn’t a big problem, it depends on how well you will treat it and for how long you want the kit to last.
Have a listen to the XD80USB electronic drum set here:
Millennium
Millennium is another budget-friendly brand where you can get a lot for your money. The pad sizes are slightly smaller on the entry-level models, but this is only going to improve your aim!
Gear 4 Music
Gear 4 Music offers some great options for beginner drummers, particularly in their ‘Junior’ range. Their colourful design and smaller size attract the younger drummers out there.
Best electronic drum kit for the beginner
ONE
We are starting off our list of the best electronic drum kits with the Digital Drums 500 electronic drum set. It brings all the essentials and more with mesh heads, an aux input and a stereo headphone output. Not only does it have the aux input but also a USB connection, so you have the ability to record.
COMES WITH: Complete Kit
FEATURES: Supports acoustic techniques such as choking cymbals
Digital Drums 500
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
- Customisable Drum Sounds
- Pads are all 8”
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 electronic drum kit for the beginner
TWO
On a similar level to the DD 500 is the Alesis Turbo Mesh. Alesis has made a name for themselves, making good quality instruments at affordable prices and this beginner electronic drum set is just that.
Although the Turbo Mesh has fewer preset drum kits and sounds, it does have 10” cymbal pads as well as a built-in coach mode and play-along tracks, which makes this a fantastic practice kit.
COMES WITH: 5 Piece kit
FEATURES: Built-in coach-mode
Alesis Turbo Mesh
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
- Mesh Heads give realistic feel
- Remote Pedals
- Not the sturdiest of options
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 electronic drum kit for the beginner
THREE
We’ve moved to a slightly higher quality now with the Roland TD 1K. Even though this is the entry-level model in the TD range, it packs a punch as it features the same expressiveness found in all TD-series V-drums modules. This gives you a big dynamic range and natural tone that you find on the higher end drum kits.
If you are looking for any disadvantages, you are limited on how you can layout the drum pads as the frame is so small. Arguably, this may not be any trouble for you as it’s all down to personal preference!
top quality
COMES WITH: Complete kit
FEATURES: Supports acoustic techniques such as choking cymbals
Roland TD-1K
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!
- Space-Saving Design
- Upgrade options for enhanced performance
- Rubber pads
- High price point
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
FOUR
If you are looking for a bang for your buck, this is it! The Alesis Nitro Mesh has all the features of the turbo mesh but with a better frame, more sounds and an upgraded kick pad, so you now use a kick pedal. As well as the ability to expand your nitro mesh kit thanks to the additional tom and crash cymbal inputs.
This is one of the best beginner electronic drum sets out there.
plenty of features
COMES WITH: Complete kit
FEATURES: Dual Zone trigger on the snare
Alesis Nitro Mesh
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!
- 350 built-in sound
- Upgrade options for enhanced performance
- Remote hi-hat pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
FIVE
Yamaha’s contribution to the entry-level electronic drum sets doesn’t go unnoticed. A solid and reliable kit with fantastic dedicated apps. The Touch app is designed to make you a better player faster by using fun exercises focusing on notation, dynamics and timing.
There is also the Rec ‘n’ Share app which allows you to record your performance directly from the sound module, which you can then put on YouTube. Having these apps is another aid to keep you interested, enjoying and even showing others your progress.
Check out this overview and demo of the Yamaha DTX402.
training function.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 kit
FEATURES: Dual Zone trigger on the snare
Yamaha DTX402K
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!
- Easy setup
- Good value for money
- Remote hi-hat and bass drum pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
SIX
If you have a younger child, they might fall in love with the Digital Drums 200 Junior Electronic Drum Kit at first glance! Its smaller size and colourful drum pads attract the younger drummers out there.
This is by no means a toy. This drum set comes with mesh heads, 44 songs, 38 kits and a metronome. And like every other electronic drum set, it has a headphone output so you can play in near silence.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: All mesh drum heads
Digital Drums
200 Junior
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!
- Junior size is ideal for small children
- Small in size but not in features
- Will soon be outgrown
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
SEVEN
Slightly higher in the Alesis range and bypassing the surge mesh is the Command Mesh. With even more drum kits and sounds than the nitro mesh kit and a sparkling chrome frame, you also get a USB midi output. This not only allows you to record but also import your own samples and play-along tracks.
What further separates this kit from the Alesis nitro mesh kit? This beginner kit also features a 10” dual-zone snare pad and 8” dual-zone tom pads giving you more flexibility in your playing.
The dual-zone pad allows you to create more sounds, such as rim shots. The larger snare pad size starts to make this Alesis feel like an acoustic drum set.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: All mesh heads, including the kick drum
Alesis Command
Mesh
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!
- The drum module allows you to import samples and tracks via the USB output
- Good value for money
- Remote hi-hat pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
EIGHT
Next up is the Behringer XD80-USB. If cheap and cheerful is what you are after, then this is it. It has all you need to get started as well as features including the proper kick drum pedal and larger cymbal pads than usual for this price bracket.
The build and sound quality, however, are not at their finest. The frame sits fairly low, so this will be ok for small children but not ideal for adults.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: 12” Cymbal Pads
Behringer XD80-USB
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!
- Bass drum kick pedal
- Small frame (in height)
- Rubber Pads
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
NINE
The next series in the Roland V Drums is the Roland TD-07 DMK. Although it has a slightly bigger frame than the TD 1K, they have kept the small cymbal pad sizes. The bass drum pad is mounted onto the frame, which is a great space saver.
This electronic kit has double-ply mesh heads, which give a realistic stick feel but with very little acoustic noise, perfect for home practice.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: Deep editing tools
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!
- Bass drum kick pedal
- Double-ply mesh heads give a realistic feel
- Remote hi-hat pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
TEN
The Yamaha DTX482K is the most advanced model in the 402 series featuring a high-quality silicone 3 zone snare pad and extra crash cymbal pad. Like the DTX402K, you can use the Touch and also Rec’ n’ Share apps helping to make your learning experience as enjoyable and productive as possible.
It goes without saying that this kit also features a USB port, aux input and also stereo headphone output. Unfortunately, we are still not quite at the stage where we get a hi-hat stand.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: Deep editing tools
Yamaha DTX482K
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!
- Includes the Touch App
- Extra Crash Cymbal Pad
- Remote hi-hat pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
ELEVEN
There is a reason that Alesis calls this electronic drum set a ‘Special Edition’. This nine-piece drum set packs a punch with an extensive range of sounds, dual-zone mesh drum pads and four cymbal pads.
This is all brought together with eye-catching crimson shells, black rims & cymbal pads and white drum heads.
The larger pad sizes, multi-zone pads and configuration give a more authentic drumming experience, much closer to that of an acoustic kit. Take a look at this Youtube video demonstrating some of the drum sounds on offer.
COMES WITH: Complete 5 piece kit
FEATURES: Deep editing tools
Alesis Crimson
ll Special Edition
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!
- Includes the Touch App
- Extra Crash Cymbal Pad
- Remote hi-hat pedal
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
TWELVE
We have now stepped over the £/$1000 mark with the Alesis DM10 MKII. This is a professional standard electronic kit which delivers a playing experience and expression not yet seen on our list, and is one of the best electronic drum sets. Take a look at the video below.
Everything has been stepped up a gear. The drum module, hardware with boom cymbal arms, adjustable snare stand and larger pad sizes make this the best electronic drum set so far.
COMES WITH: Complete 10 piece kit
FEATURES: Deep editing tools
Alesis DM10 MKII Pro
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!
- Professional Quality
- 6 Drum Pads
- High Price Point
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
THIRTEEN
The Yamaha DTX6K2-X boasts the new DTX Pro drum module. Remember, on an electronic drum set, we are always limited to the sounds available on the module. This comes with over 700 samples which have been recorded at some of the best music studios by Yamaha approved artists. So if you want to sound the best, this is an excellent place to start!
The hardware on this drum set is one of the best so far on our list. The sturdy rack system leaves plenty of room for a double kick pedal and keeps the drum module out of the way whilst still within easy reach.
COMES WITH: Complete 9 piece kit
FEATURES: DTX Pro Drum Trigger Module
Yamaha DTX6K2-X
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!
- Triple Zone Snare and Cymbal Pads
- Proper Hi-hat stand
- dual zone snare
- High Price Point
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 ELECTRONIC DRUM KIT FOR THE BEGINNER
FOURTEEN
Last on our list, but arguably the best electronic drum set, is the Roland TD 17KVX V-Drums. This electronic drum set sits at the top of the TD 17 range but also takes features from the flagship TD 50 range, including the Prismatic Sound Engine.
The prismatic sound engine reproduces the tonal changes you get when playing acoustic drums, such as where and how hard you strike the pad. Watch this video to hear how they sound.
A feature not to be missed is the Bluetooth connection which makes it super easy to stream music directly to your Roland v kit; Technology which sets this drum set apart is the KD 10 kick pad. The cushion with a rubber cover absorbs much more acoustic noise than other options, perfect to fall in line with noise constraints!
COMES WITH: Complete 10 piece kit
FEATURES: Deep editing tools
Roland TD 17KVX
V-Drums
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!
- SD Card Slot
- Tuneable 12” Snare Drum Pad
- Many different electronic drum sounds
- dual zone snare
- High Price Point
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™.
Things to consider when buying an electronic drum kit
Electronic drum sets have come a long way since their inception and now rival acoustic drum kits both on and off stage. The feel of electronic drum sets are getting closer and closer to that of an acoustic. There are features built into electronic drum sets, and if that were on an acoustic, you would have to buy additional hardware.
You may already have a list of what you want out of an electric drum kit, you may have no idea at all. But what you do want is a kit that feels and sounds like the real deal. So as well as the practicalities of size and budget, you will also want to consider pad material and technical functions.
If you’re not quite at the buying stage of your journey and you want to read up, our Electronic Drum Kit Buyer’s Guide will fill you in on everything you need to know.
How much space you have
How compact electronic drum sets are (particularly in-depth) is one of their big selling points. They do vary in size, and this tends to be down to the type of hardware you need, pad size, number of components and even the price point.
Whether you have a permanent home studio or you’re going in and out of the bedroom corner, make sure you double-check that the drum kit will definitely fit in the space you have in mind.
Your budget
As a beginner, you’re probably not looking to spend loads of money on your first kit. Don’t be put off by the budget-friendly options. Entry-level drum kits may compromise on build quality and aesthetics. But they deliver on training functions and plenty of drum sounds to keep you engaged and enjoying your playing experience.
The higher you go in price, the more features you get. Dual-zone trigger pads give you more sounds than single-zone pads. The quality of the drum module also improves; for example, you will get a larger sound library with more preset drum kits. On some models, you can even load your own sounds onto the drum module.
On an advanced kit, the hardware also steps up a level. A proper hi-hat controller pedal and bass drum pedal deliver a more realistic feel and promote better technique.
Size of drum kit
Ultimately the size of your setup will be dependent on how many pads you want. As a beginner, a standard five-piece kit is perfect, which consists of the bass, snare, three tom pads, three cymbal pads and the sound module.
The frames usually have either one, two or four stems, and the pedals will be either remote or a proper hi-hat and bass drum pedal. On beginner drum kits, the pad sizes are nearly always the same at 8”. They do get bigger and also deeper to look like an acoustic kit on the more expensive options.
Rubber v mesh pads
The pad material is super important as it not only affects the feel of the kit but can also affect our technique. We want electric drum pads to respond just like the heads on acoustic drums.
Rubber pads absorb a lot of the energy we put into them, which can mean we have to work harder. They also have a louder acoustic sound (than mesh heads) when struck. Mesh heads, however, are often tuneable, giving them a much more realistic feel.
Portability
Setting up and down is certainly a downside to being a drummer. It can take up a lot of time.
If you are a gigging musician, I recommend getting bags or cases for your drums, as electronic drum sets are not the most robust of instruments. There are also plenty of components that could go missing!
Recording capability
The recording functionality on electronic drum sets is a big pull. They are super easy to record as you can plug in and off you go – ok, it’s not quite that simple, but compared to setting up various mics and setting levels on your acoustic kit, they are much quicker to set up.
Many drum modules also act as their own interface. This means you can use a USB cable to connect your drum set directly to your computer. Most drum modules also have audio outputs. These can be used; however, an audio interface is required to convert the signal to a digital signal your computer will recognise.
Midi recording is a completely different way of recording from the previous two options. When using midi, we record the digital notes. This is then used to trigger samples on audio software from your computer. Even on entry-level drum kits, USB midi and audio outputs often come as standard.
Accessories for your drum kit
Finding new accessories never gets boring, and they make great gifts. They come in a wide price range, they look after our gear, look after us and in some cases even help us get better faster.
Something we haven’t mentioned yet is a drum throne. Drum thrones have two main characteristics: how you can adjust the height and the seat itself. To adjust the height, you can either opt for a throne with equally spaced keyway rods (where you choose which allow for a range of settings). A threaded steel rod, which allows you to customise the height. And there are also hydraulic thrones for quick adjustments.
There are some drum accessories that are not appropriate on electronic drum kits, such as drum brushes, hot rods and various drum dampeners. However, there are plenty of accessories that are relevant, which we will go into more detail below.
Headphones
Buying a good pair of studio headphones will give you a good quality sound and even protect your hearing by reducing background noise.
An alternative to headphones are in-ear monitors. The main selling point to using these over headphones is that they block out much more external noise. This allows you to turn the volume down, thus protecting your hearing.
Play along to your favorite backing tracks in comfort and style with the recommendation below.
COMES WITH: SD card slot
FEATURES: Closed-back ear cups to reduce background noise
Shure SRH240A
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!
- Performs beyond its price point
- The sound quality could be better
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™.
Drumsticks
Drum sticks vary in material and length (measured by number) and width (measured by letter). By far, the most popular sticks are the Vic Firth 5A’s. They are versatile and durable. As you progress in your playing ability, you may want to try out a different style of stick, and there are plenty to choose from. There are many signature drum sticks made for famous drummers that are now readily available for us all to buy.
COMES WITH: Set of drumsticks
FEATURES: Wood tip
Vic Firth American
Classic 5A
Hickory Drumsticks
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!
- Versatile - these sticks are a good size and weight to cover all styles
- Superior Durability
- Can be used on electronic or acoustic drum kit
- Slightly less grip than other brands
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™.
Bags etc.
Protection is super important, especially if you are transporting your drums around. Drum case bags are a great way to do this as they are lightweight and easily stored. Some bags are simply made with durable material. Others have durable material on the outside and have a lining for added protection, which is reflected in the price range.
COMES WITH: Bag Kit
FEATURES: Closed-back ear cups to reduce background noise
Protection Racket
Electronic Drum Case
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!
- SD Card Slot
- Tunable 12” Snare Drum Pad
- High Price Point
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™.
drum throne
I’m sure you’ll love all the fancy things an electronic kit can throw at you; sound modules, a kick drum controller, third party drum programs, integrated practice tools etc – but non of this will be worth it unless you get yourself a decent drum throne!
The drum throne we recommend is the DW 9120. Sure, it’s expensive, but it’ll outlast everything else – and most importantly, you’ll be totally comfortable.
COMES WITH: Pneumatic height adjustment
FEATURES: Thick padded saddle seat & backrest (available separately)
DW 9120 Series Airlift Tractor Throne
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!
- Special foam combination provides exceptional comfort and play-ability
- Quad-leg folding base provides optimal stability and easy storage
- Pneumatic height adjustment for adjusting in a matter of seconds
- Double braced
- Pricey. But it'll last you a lifetime, and what's more important than being comfortable whilst you play!
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™.
Metronomes
Metronomes make repeated clicking sounds at an adjustable speed. It develops our timekeeping skills and sense of pulse. Playing all types of rhythms in time with a metronome is a fundamental skill needed to be a top-class drummer.
On nearly all electronic kits, there will be a metronome function on the drum module. Some are more user friendly and have more features within the metronome, but of course, this depends on the price tag. Below we have recommended a metronome for you if you would rather have a separate device.
COMES WITH: A larger and more easily readable display
FEATURES: Timer, enhanced volume, and a useful 'sound-out' mode
Korg MA-2 metronome
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!
- Has a Tap Tempo function, making it super easy to use
- Earphone jack with adjustable volume
- Stylish display
- Compact - so easy to travel
- None!
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™.
Upgrading your drum kit
As you develop as a drummer, you may find yourself wanting an extra tom or cymbal pad. You can only do this if you have additional inputs on your drum module. This is an important point to think about before buying your first kit. Otherwise, you will have to buy a brand new kit with plenty of inputs.
If you are committed to playing and learning the drums and you can afford to, try to buy an electronic drum set that has additional inputs, as later down the line, you will definitely want them.
Top 5 electronic drum kits for beginners
Summary
There we go! We have covered a wide range of electronic drum sets in a wide price range and even thrown in a few thoughts on accessories.
Not only can you not go wrong with the drum sets listed above, but you are bound to love them!
Most of the best electronic drum sets come with built-in coach modes and access to educational games on apps. Although these are a great addition, use them to supplement your learning instead of opting out of drum lessons with a professional teacher, as it is an entirely different approach, and you would miss out on an awful lot.
Really appreciate the breakdown of beginner kits, makes it a lot easier for a non-drummer parent like me trying to make sense of it all. My son’s been bugging me for a drum set since he could walk, and seeing options like the Alesis Command Mesh and Digital Drums 200 Junior laid out with pros and cons helps a ton. Especially grateful for the mentions of portability and space requirements since we’re not working with a lot of room. Seats and sticks recommendations were a bonus! Kudos, Sam Jowett, for making this process a bit less daunting.
Elaine, you’re making a great choice starting him young. If you need tips on beginner lessons or setting up, feel free to reach out.
Got the Alesis Command for my daughter, and she loves it. Good luck, Elaine!
Haha, everyone’s going mesh now. Guess rubber pads are just drink coasters these days. Cheers to progress, eh?
Thoroughly enjoyed this article, especially the section about space considerations for electronic drum kits. Living in a small city apartment, it’s crucial for me to find a kit that fits well in limited space without compromising the quality of practice. I’m leaning towards the Roland TD-07DMK V-Drums based on the provided information. It appears to strike an excellent balance between compact size and functionality.
hey, great rundown on the kits. curious about how the Alesis Nitro Mesh stacks against the Roland TD-1K in terms of noise levels? live in an apartment, and don’t wanna be that neighbor, ya know. thanks for the insights, Sam Jowett.
Got the Nitro Mesh, pretty quiet with headphones. Neighbors never complained.