Are you a budding drummer looking for the perfect first kit? Look no further! We’ve scoured the market to bring you a comprehensive guide to the 12 best beginner drum sets.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current kit, we’ve got you covered. But if you are a beginner, before you start drumming it’s important to know how to tune the kit properly to get the optimal tone and maximum enjoyment. There are also a few things you should consider when buying a kit – we’ve included a short guide to these things, too.
In a hurry?
Here are our top three drum sets for beginners:
| Junior 5 Piece Drum Kit by Gear4music, Blue | Scaled-down kit ideal for drummers aged 5-10 to learn the fundamentals of drumming. | Check the current price |
| Mapex Comet Series Compact 22'' Rock Fusion Drum Kit, Infra Red | A beginner kit that expands on Mapex's best selling Tornado series. | Check the current price |
| Natal DNA 20'' 4pc Drum Kit, Blue Sparkle | Basswood shells produces a warm and balanced tone, and its durability is ideal for beginner gigging drummers. | Check the current price |
Things to look for
Before we dive in, here are some considerations to make when choosing your first kit:
First and foremost, your budget plays a crucial role in determining the options available to you. It’s essential to find a drum kit that fits within your financial means without compromising on quality.
Another aspect to keep in mind is how easy the drum kit is to tune and set up. As a beginner, you’ll want a kit that allows for straightforward adjustments to achieve the desired sound.
Of course, appearance matters too! You’ll want a drum kit that not only sounds great but also looks good on stage. Choose a kit that reflects your personal style and that will entice you to keep coming back to practise.
Longevity is also key. If your budget allows, try to opt for a kit that’s as durable as possible and won’t be quickly outgrown – it needs to adapt with you. This way, you can continue using it even as your ability level advances.
Even though you’re looking for a beginner kit, you should still consider your future requirements. Think about whether you might need some accessories later down the line – we have drum kit packages available that include these accessories. Planning ahead can save you time and money in the long run.
Lastly, if you opt for a shell pack, you will need to buy your hardware and cymbals separately. Hardware such as stands, pedals, and cymbal holders are essential components that you need to complete your drum kit. This is where our drum kit packages come in handy again!
The 12 best beginner drum sets
1. Junior 5 Piece Drum Kit by Gear4music, Blue
The best drum set for kids
Material: Poplar
Configuration: 5-piece
For Ages: 5-10yrs
Includes: Hi-hat stand, stool, cymbal arm
Pros
- Affordable
- Beginner-friendly and easy to set up
- Stylish finish is appealing for both stage and home use
Cons
- Limited expansion and customisation options
The Junior 5 Piece Drum Kit by Gear4music is an ideal option for young aspiring drummers in the age range of 5-10 years old.
Its compact size and vibrant blue colour make it visually appealing but it’s also extremely practical as a beginner kit, too. This comprehensive package provides all the necessary components, including drums, cymbals, drumsticks, and a drum throne, giving a child everything they need to begin their drumming journey.
The drum kit’s durable construction also ensures that it can withstand even the most enthusiastic drumming sessions, making it a reliable choice for young musicians.
2. BDK-20 Fusion Drum Kit by Gear4music, Black Oyster
The best kit for standing out on stage
Material: Poplar
Hardware: Chrome, double-braced
Includes: Drumsticks, drum key, stool, cymbals
Finish: Black Oyster
Pros
- Versatile and suitable for drummers looking to explore different styles
- Durable construction – great for gigging with
- Affordable
Cons
- Takes a while to assemble
The BDK-20 Fusion Drum Kit by Gear4music is a fusion set that allows you to blend various drumming techniques and produce a versatile and well-balanced sound. Suitable for drummers of all skill levels, this kit comes complete with drums, cymbals, and hardware.
The BDK-20 Fusion Drum Kit features the following drum sizes: bass drum – 20” x 16”, snare drum – 14” x 5.5”, rack tom 1 – 10” x 7”, rack tom 2 – 12” x 8”, and floor tom – 14” x 14”. The hardware components included are a bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand, cymbal stand, snare stand, and drum stool. Additionally, it includes a 14” hi-hat and 16” crash-ride cymbals.
Designed to deliver exceptional sound quality and durability, the BDK-20 Fusion Drum Kit is suitable for both practice sessions and live performances. Its versatile nature allows it to adapt to various musical genres and playing styles.
3. Mapex Comet Series Compact 22” Rock Fusion Drum Kit, Infra Red
The best beginner kit for a versatile sound
Material: Poplar
Hardware: 250 Series
Finish: Infra Red
Includes: Drumsticks, hardware, cymbals, drum stool
Pros
- 22″ bass drum produces a powerful, punchy tone with huge volume
- Basswood construction is great for versatile, professional-sounding tones
Cons
- Difficult to transport due to weight and size
The Mapex Comet Series Compact 22” Rock Fusion Drum Kit is a comprehensive beginner’s set. It takes all that Mapex quality (the kit builds on the best-selling Tornado series) and puts it into an entry-level form, tailor-made for budding drummers. The five-piece kit features nine-ply, 7.2mm poplar shells that provide a rich, warm tone and SONIClear bearing edges for easy tuning. The 250 Series four-piece hardware and 400 Series drum throne ensure stability and comfort.
Its cymbals comprise 14″ hi-hats and a 16″ crash, offering improved durability and response that’s perfect for beginners honing their skills. The kit also comes with a pair of drumsticks, making it ready to play right out of the box.
4. Natal DNA 20” 4pc Drum Kit, Blue Sparkle
The best beginner drum kit for gigging with
Material: Basswood
Finish: Blue Sparkle
Hardware: Chrome
Includes: Hardware, cymbals, throne
Pros
- Durable build for regular use
- Warm, full-bodied sound
- Ideal for practice and performance
Cons
- Basswood may lack premium resonance
The Natal DNA 20″ 4-piece drum kit is a great option for beginners, offering a durable and convenient setup. Its six-ply basswood shells are built to last, making the kit resilient enough to withstand frequent practice sessions. Basswood also provides a warm, balanced tone that works well in various settings, helping you develop your sound as you progress.
What makes this kit particularly great for new drummers is the fact that it’s an all-in-one package. It includes everything you need to start playing right away—cymbals, hardware, a kick pedal, and drumsticks. There’s no need for additional purchases, making it a hassle-free choice for those just starting out.
5. Premier Revolution 20” 5pc Drum Kit, Black
The best kit for performing a variety of musical styles
Material: Poplar
Shell Construction: 6-ply
Finish: Hard-wearing PVC in black
Included: Hardware, cymbals, kick pedal, drumsticks
Pros
- 6-ply poplar shells offer a powerful, professional sound
- Low-mass lugs ensure easy and stable tuning
Cons
- Smaller floor tom may lack deep, punchy tones
The Premier Revolution Drum Kit is a top-notch option for beginners who value quality and durability. This kit includes five essential pieces: a bass drum, two rack toms, a floor tom, and a snare drum. With a 20-inch diameter, the bass drum delivers a powerful and resonant sound open to extremely versatile drumming.
Crafted with high-quality poplar wood and a 6-ply construction, the Premier Revolution drum kit ensures durability and exceptional performance. Its sleek black finish also adds a touch of elegance and style to any stage or studio setup.
To make things easier, the kit comes complete with all the necessary hardware, including drum stands, cymbal stands, and a comfortable drum throne – so you won’t need to splash out on additional things for your kit.
However, one of the key advantages of the Premier Revolution drum kit is its versatile sound. It’s designed to deliver a wide range of tones suitable for various music genres, allowing drummers to explore and experiment with different styles, this can be invaluable for a beginner.
6. Yamaha Rydeen 22” Drum Kit w/ Cymbals, Orange Sparkle
The best kit for hard-hitting beginner drummers
Material: Poplar
Shell Construction: 6-ply
Finish: Orange sparkle
Includes: Paiste cymbals, hardware
Pros
- Crystal-clear sound delivery thanks to 45-degree bearing edges
- Triple-flanged hoops stabilise and secure tuning for a reliable sound
- Includes Paiste cymbals
Cons
- One of the more expensive beginner kits
Yamaha is a brand known for its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, and the Yamaha Rydeen Drum Kit is no exception. The drum kit includes a 22″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ mounted toms, a 16″ floor tom, and a 14″ snare drum. These drums are crafted with poplar wood, which provides a balanced tone and excellent projection.
With its orange sparkle finish, this drum kit boasts a visually appealing look that is sure to catch the eye, and it comes with a set of Paiste cymbals – every kit needs cymbals, and these offer a premium feel straight out of the box. The kit also includes a 14″ hi-hat pair and a 16″ crash cymbal.
The Yamaha Rydeen 22″ Drum Kit offers high-quality sound and durability, making it a reliable choice for practising and performing. Plus, it’s designed to be easy to set up and play, allowing beginner drummers to focus on their technique and musical expression.
7. Gretsch Energy 20” Drum Kit w/ Hardware & Paiste 101 Set, Black
The best kit for unamplified performance
Material: Poplar
Shell Construction: 7-ply
Hoops: 1.6mm triple-flanged
Finish: Black
Pros
- High-quality construction at a professional grade
- Suitable for all styles and genres
- Includes Paiste 101 cymbals
Cons
- Quite a high price point for a beginner kit
- 1.6mm may require frequent tuning depending on how hard you play
Gretsch is synonymous with quality and heritage, and the Gretsch Energy Drum Kit lives up to that reputation. This is a comprehensive drum kit package designed for beginners and intermediate drummers, including a 20″ bass drum, 10″ and 12″ mounted toms, a 14″ floor tom, and a 14″ snare drum.
It also comes with essential hardware, such as a bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand, snare stand, two cymbal stands, and a drum throne.
The included Paiste 101 cymbal set consists of a 14″ hi-hat pair, a 16″ crash cymbal, and a 20″ ride cymbal. These cymbals are suitable for various musical styles and, because they’re made by Paiste, a well-known and respected cymbal manufacturer, you can count on excellent sound and durability.
The Gretsch Energy drum kit offers a good balance between quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for those starting their drumming journey. The sleek and stylish black finish adds a touch of elegance to the overall appearance of the drum kit.
8. Sonor AQX 22” 5pc Drum Kit w/ Hardware, Blue Ocean Sparkle
The best beginner drum kit for showcasing your style
Material: Poplar
Hardware Finish: Chrome
Shell Finish: Blue Ocean Sparkle
Hardware Type: Double-braced
Pros
- Built to incredibly high standards with great attention to detail
- Hardware and cymbals included
Cons
- Limited customisation options
- High price point for an entry-level kit
The Sonor AQX Drum Kit is a visually stunning option for beginners who want to make a statement. As part of the Sonor AQX series, this drum kit boasts a sleek Blue Ocean Sparkle finish that catches the eye and comprises five pieces, including a 22” bass drum, 10” and 12” rack toms, a 16” floor tom, and a 14” snare drum.
Alongside the drums, the kit comes equipped with essential hardware, such as a bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand, snare stand, two cymbal stands, and a drum throne
Designed to deliver a versatile and high-quality drumming experience, the Sonor AQX 22” 5pc Drum Kit is suitable for both beginners and experienced drummers alike. Crafted from top-notch materials, these drums produce a balanced and powerful sound that musicians can rely on.
9. Pearl Roadshow 5pc Fusion Drum Kit w/ Sabian Cymbals, Matte Red
The best beginner kit for a professional-grade sound
Material: Poplar
Shell Construction: 9-ply
Included: Hardware, kick pedal, drum throne, 2x rack tom holders
Finish: Matte Red
Pros
- 9-ply shell construction offers a powerful sound
- Includes Sabian cymbals – renowned for their durability and crisp tonal character
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming and complex
Pearl is a legendary brand known for its exceptional drum kits, and the Pearl Roadshow Drum Kit is a great model to introduce you to the brand. The kit consists of five pieces: a bass drum, a snare drum, and three toms. Crafted from high-quality poplar, the drum shells offer durability and excellent sound projection, and they’re finely tuned to provide optimal resonance and tonal clarity.
Every component required for a complete drum setup is included, such as drum stands, pedals, and a throne. This ensures that drummers of all skill levels can quickly get started and enjoy a seamless playing experience. Plus, you get a Matte Red finish – new for 2024.
What’s especially beneficial for beginners is the fact that this kit is designed to accommodate various playing styles and genres. Whether you prefer rock, jazz, or pop, you can enjoy a balanced and dynamic sound.
10. Gretsch Renegade Drum Kit with Hardware & Cymbals, Black Mist
The best kit for a strong tone, even at beginner level
Material: Poplar
Hoops: Triple-flanged, steel
Hardware: Chrome
Finish: Black Mist
Pros
- Warm, balanced sound quality
- Durable hardware package
- Ready-to-play setup
Cons
- Basic cymbal set may be limiting for some
The Gretsch Renegade Drum Kit is the complete package right out of the box. It includes everything you need to get started – drums, cymbals, hardware, and a throne. And it sounds the part – which is the most important thing!
The kit features poplar shells, which have a warm and balanced sound, giving you a solid foundation as you learn. Plus, the hardware is extremely reliable and sturdy, providing the stability needed for both practice and early performances. Overall, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for an affordable, well-rounded setup.
11. Ludwig Accent 22” Drive 5pc Drum Kit, Black Sparkle
The best drum kit for all-round durability
Material: Hardwood
Shell Construction: 5-ply
Bearing Edge: 45-degree
Finish: Black Sparkle
Pros
- Includes hardware and cymbals
- Great value for money
- Sold hardwood shells offer fantastic durability
Cons
- Cymbals are quite small
The Ludwig Accent 22” Drive 5pc Drum Kit showcases extreme durability and excellent craftsmanship. Part of the Ludwig Accent series, it’s designed to be simple and accessible to drummers of all abilities. The kit includes a 22” bass drum, 10” and 12” mounted toms, a 16” floor tom, and a 14” snare drum. All of these drums are made of poplar wood and have a black sparkle finish.
Because of this poplar construction, the kit offers a versatile sound that can be adapted to different musical styles. And it’s easy to set up and start playing thanks to its user-friendly design.
The package includes all the necessary hardware such as a bass drum pedal, snare stand, hi-hat stand, cymbal stand, and drum throne. It also comes with a set of cymbals, including a 14” hi-hat pair and a 16” crash cymbal.
12. Mapex Venus 22” 5pc Drum Kit, Copper Metallic
The best drum kit for professional feel at a beginner level
Material: Poplar
Bearing Edges: SONIClear
Hardware: Chrome
Shell Finish: Copper Metallic
Pros
- Enhanced resonance and easier tuning
- Reliable hardware for stable playing
- Versatile cymbals with rich sound
Cons
- Cymbals may lack advanced tonal range
The Mapex Venus 22” 5-piece Drum Kit offers some seriously impressive sound quality and still boasts beginner-friendly features. Its SONIClear bearing edges ensure better contact between the drum heads and shells, resulting in easier tuning and enhanced resonance. This gives the kit a deeper, more defined tone, making it easy for new drummers to achieve a great sound.
In terms of hardware, the Mini B Lugs provide reliable tuning stability, while the TH652 double tom holder makes it easy to position the drums to your preference and comfort. Hammered brass cymbals are included. They’re versatile and durable, perfect for beginners exploring different genres.
Choosing the right drum set for you
What will you be using it for?
Assuming you’re a beginner, chances are you’ll only be using your kit for practice sessions to begin with. But what are your short-term goals? Do you just want to learn the basics? Do you aim to join a band? Both of these things are great to keep in mind when shopping for your first kit, as the most premium quality might not be your top priority.
Another thing to consider is whether or not you need it to be portable. For example, a child may want to take it to school, and therefore, you’ll want a kit that is lightweight and easy to set up.
What’s your musical genre?
Next, think about the style of music you enjoy playing. Different genres require different drum sounds. If you’re into rock or metal, you might want a drum kit that produces a powerful and aggressive sound. Jazz drummers may opt for a kit that offers a warm and smooth tone. Consider the type of shells, cymbals, and hardware that will best suit your preferred musical style.
Drum sizes
Another factor to consider is the size and portability of the drum kit. If you plan on gigging or travelling frequently, a compact and easily transportable kit would be ideal. However, if you have dedicated space for your drum set and prioritise a larger sound, a full-sized kit with multiple drums and cymbals may be the better option.
A lot of kit size options are available, from shell packs to ones which include cymbals and hardware. In addition to this, it’s worth noting that shell packs will bear better quality and craftsmanship as the price you pay is solely for the drums and drumheads.
Budget budget budget
One of the first things that you’ll most likely consider when making any sort of investment is your budget. Drum kits have a wide price range, and it’s important to find a balance between quality and affordability. Set a budget that you’re comfortable with and explore options within that range.
Remember, a higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee superior quality, so do your research and read reviews from reputable sources.
Try before you buy
Lastly, don’t forget to try before you buy. If you’re able to, why not visit our showroom in York and try different drum kits to get a feel for their sound and responsiveness?
If you don’t want to commit to a completely new kit, shopping secondhand is a good way to go. Our secondhand drums have all undergone meticulous testing by our experts and come with a 6-month warranty.
Are beginner drum heads good quality?
When it comes to beginner drumheads, it’s worth noting that many drum kits come equipped with good-quality heads. These heads are often designed to be versatile and suitable for a wide range of musical styles and playing techniques. This provides the ideal foundation for finding your drumming sound and preferences.
Having good-quality heads in beginner drum kits is beneficial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures you have access to decent-sounding drums right from the start. This can be encouraging and motivating, especially for beginners, as it allows you to experience the joys of playing on a well-tuned drum set.
Secondly, it saves you the hassle and expense of having to upgrade soon after purchasing the kit. Since heads are crucial in defining the tone and feel of the drums, having a solid foundation in terms of quality heads allows you to focus on developing your skills without being hindered by subpar sound quality.
All-around heads are designed to provide a balance between durability and tone. This means that they can withstand the rigours of practice and regular playing, while still delivering a satisfactory sound. For beginners who may not yet have a specific preference for a particular drumming style or sound, these all-around heads offer a versatile starting point.
Keep the noise down!
If noise is a concern, consider choosing an electronic drum kit. These kits typically have a headphone output, allowing you to practise without disturbing others. Electronic drums utilise sensors and sound modules to produce quieter sounds compared to acoustic drums. For more information on electronic drum kits, check out our article on the best electronic drum kits here.
Another way to dampen the noise of your drum kit is by using drum dampeners. These accessories are designed to reduce the ringing and overtones produced by the drums, resulting in a more controlled and subdued sound. Drum dampeners come in various forms, including gel pads, foam rings, and muffling sheets, allowing you to customise the level of dampening according to your preference.
If neither of these methods appeals to you, you could try using mesh heads, which produce quieter hits than traditional drumheads. Or you could utilise drum rugs or mats to dampen vibrations and prevent the kit from resonating with the floor.
Do I need ear protection?
Ear protection is highly recommended to prevent hearing damage. Drumming produces high sound levels, often exceeding 100 decibels (dB), which can lead to hearing loss over time. It’s important to prioritise your hearing health and take the necessary precautions.
Wearing ear protection, such as earplugs or in-ear monitors, can help reduce the intensity of the sound reaching your ears while still allowing you to hear the music clearly. This helps protect your ears from excessive noise levels and minimises the risk of long-term damage.
In-ear monitors are a popular option among drummers as they not only provide hearing protection but also allow you to monitor your performance and hear the other musicians clearly. They provide a balanced sound while reducing the overall volume, ensuring that you can hear everything you need without compromising your hearing.
To learn more about the different types of ear protection available for drummers, check out our blog post covering everything you need to know.
Will I need drumming lessons?
Drumming lessons provide valuable guidance and structure, allowing you to learn proper technique, rhythm, and musicality from experienced instructors. They’ll give you personalised feedback and help you progress faster by identifying areas that need improvement. Even better, lessons offer the opportunity to collaborate with other musicians and gain insights into different styles and genres.
Nevertheless, the internet offers a wealth of resources for learning drumming. From video tutorials and online courses to forums and virtual drumming communities, there are numerous options to explore. These resources provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace and tailor your learning experience to your specific needs.
FAQs
What brand of drums are best for beginners?
Tama are a highly regarded drum brand, known for their quality and durability which make them great for beginners. Gretsch and Pearl are also well-known brands in the drumming world who offer excellent beginner kits.
Is a 5-piece drum set good for beginners?
A 5-piece drum set can be a good option for beginners. This type of drum set typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, two mounted toms, and a floor tom. It provides a solid foundation for beginners to develop their drumming skills and explore different musical styles.
How much does a beginner drum set cost?
Beginner drum sets can range from around £70 to £500 or more, depending on the specific model and features. Drum sets that are made from more reputable woods such as birch and hardwood, or a combination of woods tend to cost in excess of £600.
Final thoughts
We hope our list of the best beginner drum sets has helped you in your search for your first kit or next upgrade.
With all the information in mind, why not check out our full range of beginner drum kits?
0 Comments