Embarking on the journey of learning to play the drums is an exhilarating adventure, one that requires not only dedication and rhythm but also the right equipment to kickstart your musical aspirations. As a beginner, the vast array of drum sets available can be overwhelming, with various shell materials, drum sizes, and hardware qualities to consider. At BuySmart.ai, we understand the importance of finding the perfect drum set that resonates with your personal style and supports your growth as a drummer. That's why we've meticulously analyzed the market to bring you the best drum sets for beginners in 2024, ensuring you can make an informed decision that harmonizes with your ambitions and budget.
The shell material of a drum set is the cornerstone of its sound and durability, with options ranging from the warm tones of poplar to the resonant qualities of maple. The number of drums in a set can shape the complexity and versatility of your playing experience, while the size of the drums, especially the bass, will influence the depth and punch of your beats. Cymbals and hardware are equally crucial, as they can dramatically affect the overall sound and stability of your setup. Our guide weighs these factors carefully, assigning importance scores to help prioritize what matters most for a novice drummer. With our expert insights and comprehensive analysis, you'll be equipped to choose a drum set that not only meets your current needs but also supports your progression as you evolve from a beginner to a seasoned percussionist.
Pearl Roadshow 5-piece Complete Drum Set: Ideal Starter Drum Kit
Roadshow Drum Set 5-Piece Complete Kit with Cymbals and Stands, Charcoal... -- $659.99(Amazon)
Pearl Roadshow Drum Set 5-Piece Complete Kit with Cymbals and Stands, Je... -- $729.99(Amazon)
Roadshow Jr. 5 piece Drum Set w/Hardware and Cymbals, Jet Black -- $409.99(Amazon)
Pearl Roadshow Complete 5-Piece Drum Set with Hardware and Cymbals Charc... -- $799.99(Guitar Center)
Roadshow 5-Piece Drum Set with Vater 5B Wood Tip Hickory Drum Sticks, Je... -- $671.98(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Pearl Roadshow 5-piece Complete Drum Set is an ideal choice for beginners due to its comprehensive package that includes everything needed to start playing right away. With its solid foundation of good quality hardware and cymbals, it offers a great starting point for those new to drumming. The inclusion of hardwood drum shells, triple flanged steel hoops, and double braced stands ensures durability and a quality sound, making it an excellent investment for aspiring drummers.
Who It's For
This drum set is best suited for beginners or those looking for a complete, ready-to-play kit without the hassle of purchasing additional parts. It's also a great option for parents looking to buy their children their first drum set, as it offers good quality at a reasonable price. However, more experienced players might find the cymbals lacking and may consider upgrading them for a more refined sound.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Complete kit with drums, hardware, cymbals, and drum throne included | ❌ Cymbals may require upgrading for more experienced players |
| ✅ Hardwood drum shells and triple flanged steel hoops for quality sound | ❌ Price varies significantly depending on color and package details |
| ✅ Double braced stands for durability and stability | ❌ May not satisfy the needs of professional drummers looking for high-end components |
Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove: Best Compact Drum Kit for Gigging Drummers
Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove 4-Piece Shell Pack Red Sparkle -- $499(Guitar Center)
Breakbeats 2022 By Questlove 4-piece Shell Pack with Snare Drum - Silver... -- $499(Amazon)
Questlove Ludwig Breakbeats 4-Piece Drum Kit, White/Silver Sparkle -- $548.98(Amazon)
Breakbeats 2022 By Questlove 4-piece Shell Pack with Snare Drum - Black ... -- $499(Amazon)
Breakbeats 2022 By Questlove 4-piece Shell Pack with Snare Drum - Blue S... -- $499(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Ludwig Breakbeats by Questlove is a compact, portable drum kit designed for drummers who need a space-saving solution without compromising on sound quality. Its 7-ply hardwood shell construction ensures a powerful and authentic Ludwig sound, making it versatile for various music styles. The inclusion of nylon carrying bags and a range of sparkle finishes cater to the aesthetic and practical needs of gigging musicians.
Who It's For
This drum kit is perfect for urban drummers playing in small venues, street performers, or any musician who requires a kit that's easy to transport and set up in confined spaces. It's also great for those who appreciate the Ludwig brand but have limited room at home for practice. However, it might not satisfy drummers who prefer the experience of playing a full-size drum set.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Compact size for easy transport and setup | ❌ May not replicate the full-size kit experience |
| ✅ Powerful sound with 7-ply hardwood shells | ❌ Limited bass drum size may not suit all music styles |
| ✅ Includes nylon carrying bags for protection and mobility | ❌ Some drummers may prefer larger toms for a broader tonal range |
Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set: Best Value Drum Set for Aspiring Drummers
Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 20 Inches Kick - Candy Apple ... -- $899.99(Amazon)
Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 5-Piece - 18 Inches Kick - Hairline Blue -- $849.99(Amazon)
Imperialstar Complete Drum Set - 6-Piece - Hairline Black -- $999.99(Amazon)
Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set Dark Blue -- $899.99(Guitar Center)
Why We Picked It
The Tama Imperialstar Complete Drum Set is a fantastic choice for both aspiring and seasoned drummers who seek quality without breaking the bank. It includes Meinl HCS cymbals, which are known for their superior sound compared to cymbals that typically come with beginner sets. The build quality of the drums is impressive for the price point, offering a balanced and responsive sound that can satisfy both practice and performance needs.
Who It's For
This drum set is ideal for beginner to intermediate drummers who want a reliable and high-quality kit for practice, lessons, and gigs. It's also a great option for experienced drummers looking for an affordable secondary kit. However, absolute beginners might find the initial setup and tuning a bit daunting without assistance.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Includes high-quality Meinl HCS cymbals | ❌ Setup and tuning may be challenging for beginners |
| ✅ Excellent build quality and sound for the price | ❌ Cymbals may eventually need an upgrade for professional use |
| ✅ Comes with a complete set of stage-ready TAMA hardware | ❌ Poplar wood shells, while good, are not the top-tier choice for professionals |
Yamaha Rydeen 5-piece Shell Pack: Best Beginner to Intermediate Drum Kit
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Shell Pack - 22" Bass Drum - Black Glitter -- $419.99(Guitar Center)
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Drum Set With 20" Bass Drum, Floor Tom, 2 Toms Wit... -- $552.3(Amazon)
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Shell Pack with 22" Bass Drum Sky Blue -- $419.99(Musicians Friend)
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Drum Set With 20" Bass Drum, Floor Tom, 2 Toms Wit... -- $548.21(Amazon)
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Shell Pack Mellow Yellow - 20" Bass Drum -- $419.99(Music & Arts)
Yamaha Rydeen 5-Piece Drum Set With 20" Bass Drum, Floor Tom, 2 Toms Wit... -- $539.54(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Yamaha Rydeen 5-piece Shell Pack is a fantastic choice for beginner and intermediate drummers who value quality and sound. Yamaha's reputation for crafting durable and great-sounding instruments is evident in this kit. It offers a solid foundation for customization, allowing drummers to select their preferred cymbals and hardware to create a personalized setup.
Who It's For
This drum set is best suited for beginner to intermediate players who are looking to invest in a high-quality drum kit that they can tailor to their own playing style and preferences. It's also ideal for those who appreciate the flexibility of building their drum set piece by piece.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ 6-ply 100% Poplar Shells for warm and full tones | ❌ Shell pack requires additional purchases of cymbals and hardware |
| ✅ Genuine Yamaha Tom Ball and Pipe Clamps for adjustability and reliability | ❌ Initial cost may increase with added components |
| ✅ Variety of solid and glitter finishes for a stylish look | ❌ May not be suitable for advanced players looking for a complete, professional set |
Mapex Mars 5-Piece Shell Pack: Versatile Drum Set for Customization
Mapex MA528SF Mars Crossover 5 Piece Shell Pack w/ 22" Kick : Bloodwood -- $732.26(Rock Solid Music)
Why We Picked It
The Mapex Mars 5-Piece Shell Pack is chosen for its exceptional sound quality and design innovation. The SONIClear bearing edges are a standout feature, enhancing the drum's tone and making tuning more straightforward. This shell pack is versatile, allowing drummers to personalize their setup with their choice of hardware and cymbals, making it a solid foundation for both intermediate and professional players.
Who It's For
This drum set is ideal for intermediate to professional drummers who are looking to upgrade their kit with a high-quality, versatile shell pack. It's also suitable for those who enjoy customizing their setup, as additional hardware and cymbals are required to complete the kit. However, it may not be the best choice for beginners or those looking for a complete set without additional purchases.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ SONIClear bearing edges for improved tone and ease of tuning | ❌ Additional hardware and cymbals must be purchased separately |
| ✅ Flexible setup options with the shell pack format | ❌ May require a larger investment for a complete setup |
| ✅ Attractive Bloodwood finish with a competitive price point | ❌ Not ideal for beginners who prefer an all-in-one package |
Gretsch Energy 5-Piece Drum Set: Best Beginner Drum Set Package
Gretsch Drums Energy 5-Piece Shell Pack Black -- $549(Guitar Center)
Energy 5-Piece Drum Set w/Hardware and Zildjian Cymbals (Black) -- $999(Amazon)
Gretsch Energy 5-Piece Kit with Full Hardware Package & Zildjian Cymbals... -- $692.39(The Shed Drum Shop)
Energy 5-Piece Drum Set w/Hardware and Zildjian Cymbals (Grey Steel) -- $999(Amazon)
Gretsch Energy 5 Piece Set with 4 Piece Hardware Set (20/10/12/14/14sn) ... -- $599(Walmart)
Why We Picked It
The Gretsch Energy 5-Piece Drum Set is an excellent choice for beginners due to its comprehensive package that includes quality Sabian SBR cymbals and a full hardware set. The 'quick-release' tom brackets simplify the setup process, allowing new drummers to focus on their playing rather than equipment adjustments.
Who It's For
This drum set is best suited for beginner to intermediate drummers who are looking for a complete, ready-to-play kit that offers a good balance between quality and affordability. It's also ideal for those who appreciate the ease of setup and adjustments, thanks to the quick-release tom brackets.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Includes high-quality Sabian SBR cymbals | ❌ The included drum throne may be uncomfortable for some users |
| ✅ Quick-release tom brackets for easy setup | ❌ Some users may prefer higher-end cymbals as they progress |
| ✅ Comes with a full hardware package including Zildjian Planet Z cymbals | ❌ Poplar shells may not satisfy all players as they advance in skill level |
PDP Player 5-Piece Junior Drum Set: Best Starter Drum Set for Young Musicians
PDP Player 5-Piece Junior Drum Set with Cymbals and Throne Black -- $499.99(Sweetwater)
Pdp Player 5-piece Complete Junior Drum Set (2-pack) Bundle -- $999.98(eBay - sweetwatersound)
Why We Picked It
The PDP Player 5-Piece Junior Drum Set is an excellent starter kit for young drummers. It's specifically designed with smaller sizes to accommodate the reach and ergonomics of younger players. The inclusion of cymbals and hardware makes it a complete set, providing everything a budding drummer needs to start playing right away. This set offers great value for parents looking to invest in their child's musical growth without compromising on a full drumming experience.
Who It's For
This drum set is ideal for young beginners who are just starting to explore the world of drumming. It's tailored for children and early teens who need a kit that fits their stature and skill level. However, it may not be the best choice for older or taller beginners who might require a larger set that they won't outgrow as quickly.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Sized appropriately for younger players | ❌ Not suitable for older or taller beginners |
| ✅ Complete kit with cymbals and hardware included | ❌ May require an upgrade as the player grows |
| ✅ Great value for a full 5-piece set | ❌ Limited adjustability for advanced playing techniques |
Mendini by Cecilio Complete Full Size 5-Piece Adult Drum Set: Affordable Full-Size Drum Set for Beginners
Mendini by Cecilio 16" 5-Piece Complete Kids / Junior Drum Set with Adju... -- $234.99(Amazon)
Mendini by Cecilio 16 inch 5-Piece Complete Kids / Junior Drum Set with ... -- $249.99(Reverb)
Why We Picked It
The Mendini by Cecilio Complete Full Size 5-Piece Adult Drum Set is an excellent choice for beginners and those on a budget. It offers a complete setup that includes everything needed to start playing right away. This makes it an ideal option for adults who are interested in learning the drums without making a significant financial commitment. Despite its affordable price, the set provides a comprehensive drumming experience, allowing new players to explore various drumming techniques and styles.
Who It's For
This drum set is best suited for adult beginners or hobbyists looking for an affordable entry into drumming. It's also a great choice for those who have limited space but still want a full-size set. The Mendini by Cecilio drum set is designed to offer a solid starting point for those who are not yet ready to invest in a high-end drum kit but want to start practicing and learning.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Includes everything needed to start playing, making it ideal for beginners | ❌ Cymbals and hardware quality reflect the set's budget-friendly price |
| ✅ Affordable price point, offering great value for those on a tight budget | ❌ May require upgrades for more serious or advanced players |
| ✅ Full-size 5-piece set allows for a comprehensive drumming experience | ❌ Sound quality may not meet the expectations of experienced drummers |
DW Design Series 5-Piece Shell Pack: Premium Choice for Aspiring Drummers
DW Design Series 5 Piece Clear Acrylic Shell Pack -- $1599(Reverb)
DW Design Series 5-Piece Shell Pack - Steel Gray -- $1999(Drum Center of Portsmouth)
DW DDFP2215BP Design Series 5-Piece Shell Pack - Blue Marine -- $1899.99(Reverb)
DW Design Series 5 Piece Shell Pack - Cherry Stain -- $1799.99(Micheo Music)
Why We Picked It
The DW Design Series 5-Piece Shell Pack stands out for its exceptional quality and versatility, offering a range of options to suit different aesthetic preferences and musical needs. With options like the visually striking Clear Acrylic and the elegant Cherry Stain, these drum sets not only deliver superior sound but also cater to individual styles. The higher price point reflects the premium materials and craftsmanship associated with the DW brand, ensuring that these drums can inspire beginners and support them as they progress to more advanced levels.
Who It's For
This shell pack is ideal for serious beginner drummers who are committed to their craft and willing to invest in a high-quality instrument that will grow with them. It's also suitable for intermediate and advanced players looking for a reliable, great-sounding kit for practice, recording, or performance. However, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or beginners who are still exploring their interest in drumming.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship | ❌ High initial investment compared to beginner sets |
| ✅ Variety of aesthetic options to match personal style | ❌ Additional costs for hardware and cymbals |
| ✅ Designed to inspire and grow with the drummer | ❌ May not be the best option for those on a tight budget or unsure about their commitment to drumming |
Thanks for checking out the best drum sets for beginners! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy drumming!