Are you looking for the best beginner drum sets? You’re in the right place.
When we talk about a drum set for beginners, we talk about a regular five-piece set. Five-piece sets include toms, snare, bass, cymbals, and a hi-hat.
In reality, you will have three toms, a snare, a ride/crash, a bass drum, and a hi-hat. That’s all you need as a beginner. You can always add a China Splash or anything else.
Musical instruments contribute heavily to self-expression and creativity while allowing the player to complete freedom and an emotional expression outlet.
A drum set is an essential framework for most music, aiding concentration and coordination in daily life and working as an excellent stress relief.
Your choice of an instrument as a beginner can heavily influence your speed and ease of learning, either heightening or hindering the experience.
Each drum set featured in this article has its features and positive/negative aspects of being considered when determining the best starter drum kit for you.
Top 5 Best Beginner Drum Sets:
| Image | Model | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Pearl RS525SCC706 (Editor's Choice) | Check Price |
 | Gammon 5-Piece Junior Starter Drum Kit | Check Price |
 | Spectrum AIL 602 | Check Price |
 | Mendini by Cecilio | Check Price |
 | GP Percussion SK22 | Check Price |
Pearl RS525SCC706 Roadshow 5-Piece Drum Set (Editor’s Choice)
This set contains absolutely everything you need to get started in one box.
Features include 9ply, 7mm poplar shells and 1.2mm Triple Flanged hoops, 22×16 bass drum, 1×8 tom, 12×9 tom, 16×16 floor tom, 14×5.5 snare drum, 162 brass crash-ride, 142 hybrid hi-hats. There is also a cymbal stand, hi-hat stand, snare stand, bass drum pedal, throne, two tom holders, chain-drive bass drum pedal, and geared locking stands, making it a fantastic bargain for the asking price.
This set is available in four setups and finishes. This set is both versatile and moderately professional while maintaining ease of use for beginners!
The tone is fantastic, featuring a rugged and depth-wielding voice while maintaining a friendly and non-intimidating feel. Hi-hats are crisp and punchy, with just enough volume. Volume for this kit in its entirety is relatively controlled, making it perfect for at-home practice.
What I like most about this set because it perfectly bridges the gap between beginner level and next-level playing, light-level gigging, etc. This kit is far more likely to survive a move than many other kits out there and maybe of far better value in the long run.
As far as musical styles go, the intended playing style advertised is ‘fusion,’ but any style could work well because the setup is so versatile.
Durability, great cosmetic detail, and versatility are what really sell this set for me.
Pros
- Absolutely fantastic value for money
- Large set, but only contains what you need
- Ideal for beginners of all ages
- Easy to tune and set up
- Ideal for controlling practice noise levels
Cons
- Cymbals sound thin and are of poor quality in comparison to the rest of the set
- Drum throne squeaky and uncomfortable, squeak can be fixed with grease however
- Good looking set, but poor cosmetic finish up close
Gammon 5-piece Junior Starter Drum Kit
This complete setup features cymbals, hardware, sticks, and a throne at a very consumer-friendly price. Perfect for beginners! It’s cheap, cheerful, and contains everything needed to play straight from the box, making it the ideal gift for any occasion.
This product is targeted towards children but can be used by beginners of all ages. At first glance, this kit does not mightily resound with an implication of quality, yet the quality is what you receive for the price.
The cymbals included don’t quite match what is demonstrated in the rest of the setup, but this could be due to drum manufacturers tending not to have cymbals on higher-end kits. These are sold separately. However, this set’s cymbals can be replaced entirely or replaced with the included hi-hat, which holds a decent tone of its own.
When purchasing a beginner set, extreme durability is not necessary. This drum set is adequately durable for a starter-level and holds itself well, considering the low-end price tag. However, the heads may require replacement after a few months of heavy use.
As previously mentioned, assembling and disassembling a cheap set is not recommended as low-end kits are prone to damage when moved too frequently. That is the case here.
Finally, it’s not an overly professional-looking piece of kit regarding cosmetics, but the quality of play is of higher value here! At the very least, you will be sure to appreciate the colors (black, pink, or blue), and the high gloss finish is aesthetically pleasing.
A useful beginner practice set available in bright and vivid colors, and I would recommend this product.
Pros
- Bestselling drum kit on amazon
- Great quality for the price
- Spare hardware parts included
- Clear instructions for easy assembling
Cons
- Reports of hardware problems (dependant on usage)
- The snare is of poor quality.
- Essential to tighten the tom and snare mounts, or they will move when playing
- Snare stand and stool not overly sturdy.
GP Percussion SK22 Complete Student Snare Drum Kit
This set is advertised as a complete kit, but I have my doubts.
Featuring a ten lug 5.5’x14′ metal shelled snare drum, double brace stand, case, drum key, practice pad, and drumsticks, it contains far less variety than the other products on our list. That limits playing style down from limitless to very, very limited, ha. It’s cheap, but you get very little for what you pay for here.
Considering the kit consists solely of a snare drum, you would expect the quality of said snare drum to be of a relatively high standard. It is average at best and has a flat, hollow edge.
The drum also losing tuning quite easily. However, it’s a useful first purchase to determine whether drums are the instrument for you, simply because they’re cost-effective and non-space consuming. So, it might not be a viable option if you are looking for the full set-up experience whilst a good first buy.
Pros
- One stand-alone drum makes it easy to learn and practice simple rhythm techniques at a beginner level
- Easily transportable, can play with ease anywhere without much set-up
- Very affordable compared to other sets available
Cons:
- It may not satisfy a keen drummer due to very limited playing style
- The stand is too low
- Poor quality, particularly the case
Mendini by Cecilio 16” 3-Piece Kids/Junior Drum Set
A good set, this kit includes a 16″ x 11″ bass drum, 10″ x 6″ hanging tom, 10″ x 5″ snare drum with accompanying stand, an adjustable throne, 9.5″ cymbal with bass mounted holder, pedal, drumsticks and comes in a wide variety of colors to suit all preferences.
The product is recommended for children between 2.5ft and 5ft, making it unsuitable for adult use. Better variety than the snare kit and only differing slightly in price (making it a much better option if the beginner is a child), but it does lack the fulfillment of the first two products reviewed.
Reliability does weigh in on the choices here, and a one-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defects does make it a safe first buy for your little beginner. The simple twenty-minute (on average) assembly was one of my favorite features. It is handy in a gift-giving situation and for those who know little about drums or the setup process.
The sound quality probably lacks the most on this set, short sound lacking heavily in reverberation, yet perfectly adequate for a child. Hi-hat is omitted but isn’t needed.
Pros
- Eye-catching colors guaranteed to catch your child’s attention
- Small, neat set
- Includes a throne and drumsticks
Cons
- Only designed with young beginners in mind
- Instructions aren’t brilliant (but the product is easily assembled anyway)
- Screws included can be wrong in sizing
Spectrum AIL 602 7-Pad Digital Drum Set
This electronic drum kit comes with an adjustable stand, pedals, sticks, and an AC adapter. It also includes an adjustable drum standard making it perfect for sitting or standing, and instructional video download.
Seven assignable pads, twenty preset kits, two hundred fifteen voices, ten user kits, and one demo song make this kit particularly feature-heavy and a great introductory experience for any beginner.
These additional features make it far more accessible, and working with the presets available makes it a simple business to start creating music right away. Out of all the sets reviewed, I would highly recommend this product to anyone deeply concerned about noise levels.
Note: you will require stereo headphones or an audio jack adapter. Realistically imitating a standard drum kit, the experience provided is much the same, without the noise! Portability and battery operation makes this product particularly useful for aspiring drummers on the go.
A USB port feature means simple recording for computer use, which works well for beginners wanting to record their progress and music.
It’s a tough job replicating that traditional drum sound to the point of a rich and realistic experience, but this kit manages it well. The sound’s depth and quality are dynamic overall and, despite not matching the real thing, does its job well.
Ideal for an aspiring music producer due to the voices, presets, and ability to customize drum kits. Producing has never been this easy!
Pros
- It suits any beginner of any age.
- A strong compromise when worrying about noise levels
- Smart interface, well designed
Cons
- The instruction manual is difficult to follow
- Cheap for an electronic kit but costlier than many beginner drum sets
How to Choose the Best Starter Drum Set
Budget and Try-Before-You-Buy
When learning a new instrument, it is important to remember that some aren’t for everyone. It’s completely normal for interest and commitment to discontinue after a short period, so a cheaper budget kit that doesn’t compromise too much on quality may be of initial preference.
Establish a budget beforehand and try to stick closely to it. Naturally, higher quality tends to come with a higher price tag. The good beginner drum set will combine adequate functionality with a budget-friendly price. It does not need to be highly specialized.
The difference between a beginner set and a professional set is that advanced sets are usually various drum parts. A starter set will include everything you need to play right off the bat.
If buying online, shop around and make sure to read reviews for each set you are considering. If buying from a shop, find out if you can play before you buy and sample the set before purchase. That will give you a good idea of tone and potentially the durability of the hardware.
Requirements for the Best Beginner Drum Set
- Tone. A decent tone that sounds precise, at least moderate quality and has fair dynamics. It doesn’t need to qualify for professional sound, but you want a fair sound that motivates you to keep playing. Smaller sets are perfect for any beginner, and they tend to demonstrate a clear and articulate note. However, keep in mind that a stronger striking accuracy may be required to maintain a pleasant sound. A larger set with slightly larger toms produces higher dynamics, generating tone that contains far more depth. Their ability to naturally produce a stronger sound makes them perfect for large, high-noise rock venues. At a beginner level, a smaller set would be far more suitable.
- Hardware. Super sturdy hardware is not essential for a first kit unless you plan to gig eventually without upgrading your set. Assembling and dissembling a cheap set is not recommended because it is generally being constructed from weaker materials (hence lower price tags).
- Utility. As a beginner, you will be looking for the complete setup, which should include at least two toms, snare, hat, kick, crash, and ride. If looking to play metal, you may need a separate double-pedal kit, but this is unnecessary at a starter level. If you feel the need for additional equipment, consider purchasing it later when you have some experience under your belt.
- Musical style. Consider the style of music you wish to play. Different drum set sizes are available to suit various musical styles, ranging from a quieter end of the spectrum to heavy rock and metal. It is important to remember that a smaller kit will most probably suffice in the first learning stages. Metal is an extremely physical and challenging genre for drummers and not usually one, to begin with. However, if you are looking for a long-term investment, purchasing a larger set would be far more practical if after a heavy rock and metal or contemporary style.
- Cosmetic detail. Your priority as a beginner should be the above points and not aesthetic detailing. However, if appearance is significant to you, consider self-customization as a more affordable and practical option than buying an expensive kit simply for a high gloss paint job.
Wood Choice for the Starter Drum Set (Advanced)
Did you know that wood choice also influences your sound’s tone, dynamics, and depth? Many beginner sets are made from cheap Luan wood or plastic and metal. However, if you are interested in the varied tonal characteristics and a frequency response between wood types, read on.
- Maple – Often used for high-end drums, hot and well-balanced tone, slightly boosted lows, smooth mid and high frequencies, lovely finish
- Luan – The softest wood and least attractive, inexpensive, usually used for low budget drums, often covered in plastic, low-end version of birch
- Falcata – Like maple but less expensive
- Birch – Tough and dense, brighter sound, often used for recording due to its extreme clarity, Reduced midrange with enhanced highs and lows, vintage characteristic, produces more high-end than maple
- Oak – Powerful sound, bright, similar to maple
- Basswood – Good and less expensive alternative to birch and maple
- Poplar – Similar sound to mahogany and birch, low-cost alternative to birch and maple
Consider Your Environment for Drum Practice
If noise is an issue for neighbors, housemates, or family members, would you consider an electronic drum kit?
With some brands closely imitating that of a proper set, they are ideal for beginners and experienced drummers alike. Why? They can be used with headphones to suit homes where noise levels must be closely controlled and are perfect for beginners unnerved by learning an instrument where others can hear.
Consider Additional Equipment for Your Drum Set
So now you know exactly what to look for when purchasing your first drum set, it might be worth considering any additional equipment you may require.
- Drum stool is not essential if one can be substituted with a chair but recommended for a comfier practice.
- Drum sticks
- Practice pad
- Additional drums and cymbals (not necessary if full start-up kit is purchased)
- Metronome
- Music stand
- Headphones
- Music books
The Best Drum Set for Beginners: Final Thoughts
What is our favorite item featured in reviews? The Pearl RS525SCC706 Roadshow 5-Piece Drum Set
Why? It contains absolutely everything you need to get started without throwing you into the deep end. It is the perfect long-term investment for someone who learns quickly and won’t stay in the beginner stage for long.
Although not the cheapest product featured, it is well worth the price. For any age, this is the perfect starting point for a lifetime of drumming and the best beginner drum set at the moment.