If you’re a drummer on a budget, finding the right drum set can be a game-changer. The durability, sound quality, and versatility of your kit can significantly impact your playing experience. That’s why we’re here to help! In this article, we’ll guide you through the best cheap drum sets that deliver high-end sound without breaking the bank.
We understand the term “cheap” is subjective, but rest assured that these selected drum kits are perfect for drummers looking to save some pounds and turn some heads!
In a hurry?
If you’re looking for the best of the best, here our are top three favourites:
| BDK-22 Rock Drum Kit by Gear4music | Includes everything you need to learn the drums right away. | Check the current price |
| Pearl Roadshow 6pc Drum Kit w/ Sabian Cymbals | High-quality kit with nine-ply, 7mm poplar shells and a Sabian cymbal set. | Check the current price |
| Mapex Comet Series Compact 22'' Rock Fusion Drum Kit | Delivers warm, rich tones, and offers an easy set-up for beginners. | Check the current price |
The best cheap drum sets
1. Ludwig Accent 22” Drive 5pc Drum Kit
Key Features
- Complete set-up – perfect for beginner drummers
- Perfect for various genres, especially rock
- Hardwood shells produce punchy beats with a short sustain
Pros
- Deep 22″ bass drum projects depth and volume
- Five-ply hardwood shells for durability and quality sound
- Double-ply heads enhance tone and durability
Cons
- Brass cymbals are not of the highest quality
The Ludwig Accent 22” Drive 5pc Drum Kit in Black Sparkle is the perfect choice for drummers on a budget. As a complete setup, it’s best suited to beginner drummers looking to dive into the world of drumming straight away, and you can do so whilst exploring various genres thanks to the kit’s versatility.
What’s particularly great about this kit is its five-ply hardwood shells which produce punchy beats with a short sustain, giving your drumming an impactful sound. The deep 22″ bass drum then adds depth and volume to go along with it.
Additionally, there are tone-enhancing, durable double-ply drumheads included.
If that wasn’t enough, this Ludwig kit is completed in a Black Sparkle shell finish, giving the right aesthetic for any rock or heavy metal drummer out there.
2. BDK-22 Rock Drum Kit by Gear4music
Key Features
- Double-braced hardware for enhanced durability
- Bright and articulate tone with increased lows
- Gloss finish adds a touch of elegance
Pros
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance
- Impressive tone with excellent articulation
- Attractive gloss finish enhances the visual appeal
Cons
- Ratchet tom arm reduces fine positioning options of the drums
The BDK-22 Rock Drum Kit by Gear4music in Black is made with budgeting drummers in mind. Its bright and articulate tone, combined with increased lows, delivers a well-rounded sound that cuts through the mix. Comfortable, frequent practice and jam sessions are also guaranteed thanks to the kit’s double-braced hardware and sturdy poplar wood shells.
With poplar shells, this kit provides a warm sound with a boosted low end for added richness. It’s great for bringing not only a foot-tapping rhythm to your music but also an added depth that really hits.
The BDK-22 Rock Drum Kit doesn’t just excel in terms of performance. It boasts a gorgeous gloss finish that adds a touch of elegance to any stage, so you’ll look as great as you sound.
3. Roland TD-02K V-Drums Electronic Drum Kit
Key Features
- Compact size and design for easy placement
- Adjustable frame suitable for young drummers
- Low-volume pedals for quiet practice sessions
Pros
- 16 high-quality Roland V-Drum kits
- Easy to navigate drum module
- Onboard coaching features
Cons
- Rubber pads may not give the most realistic rebound compared to mesh heads
Moving on to the electronic side of things, the Roland TD-02K V-Drums Electronic Drum Kit is an “up-there” choice for electronic drummers on a budget. Its compact size and design make it incredibly versatile, fitting seamlessly into small spaces without compromising on functionality.
Additionally, the adjustable frame easily caters to young drummers, ensuring a comfortable playing experience as they grow and develop their skills.
One of the best features of this electronic drum kit (that will keep your neighbours happy) is the low-volume foot pedals, which allow for quiet practice sessions at any time of day. So, say goodbye to any annoying noise curfews! With the Roland TD-02K, you can practise without disturbing others while maintaining the same enjoyable drumming experience.
Don’t let the affordable price fool you; the kit doesn’t compromise on quality. It offers a range of high-quality kits and sounds, providing an authentic drumming experience, whilst the construction quality ensures it can withstand regular use.
4. Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit
Key Features
- Perfect size for children and young drummers
- Develops focus, discipline, and hand-eye coordination
- Complete package with drums, cymbals, stands, throne, pedals, and drumsticks
Pros
- High-quality materials ensure durability
- Affordable price makes it budget-friendly
- Excellent construction quality for a great sound
Cons
- Limited hardware height range
One for the junior drummers out there is the Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit in Grindstone Sparkle. It not only introduces children to the wonderful world of drumming but also helps them develop focus, discipline, and hand-eye coordination. With drums, cymbals, stands, throne, pedals, and drumsticks included, this kit offers everything they need to start their drumming journey.
Backed by Pearl’s renowned status for premium quality, the Roadshow Junior features six-ply poplar shells, and the drums are configured in a very compact setup that packs a punch. Despite its quality, the Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit is remarkably affordable, rightfully earning its place on our list!
Available in two stunning finishes, Grindstone Sparkle and Jet Black, the Pearl Roadshow Junior 5pc Drum Kit is sure to spark up any drumming desire.
5. Mapex Comet Series Compact 22” Rock Fusion Drum Kit
Key features
- 9-ply, 7.2mm poplar shells
- SONIClear bearing edges
- Includes 400 Series drum throne
Pros
- Rich tone with easy tuning
- Sturdy build with added stability
- Comes fully equipped for beginners
Cons
- Limited finish options
The Mapex Comet Series Compact 22” Rock Fusion Drum Kit is a great choice for beginners wanting high-quality sound without breaking the bank. Constructed with nine-ply, 7.2mm poplar shells, this kit offers a warm, rich tone that’s rare in entry-level kits. SONIClear Bearing Edges then make it easy to tune up – ideal for new drummers.
Equipped with robust, responsive cymbals, the Comet Series delivers sound with excellent projection. Plus, the kit comes with an adjustable 400 Series drum throne – perfect for enhancing playability and finding the right posture.
Beyond its sound and comfort, the Comet Series is ready to go straight out of the box. The included 250 Series Hardware, a drum throne, and essential cymbals ensure that new players can dive right in without needing extra accessories.
6. Premier Revolution 22” 5pc Drum Kit
Key Features
- Ready-to-play package, including a 5pc kit, hardware, cymbals, drum stool, and drumsticks
- 7.5mm, 6-ply poplar shells provide a warm, versatile tone
- Premier low-mass lugs provide tuning reliability
Pros
- Hard-wearing PVC finish is extremely durable and looks great on any stage
- Includes a matching 14” x 5” snare drum
- An affordable option for drummers on a budget
Cons
- Included cymbals are limited to just hi-hat and crash-ride
Looking for the whole package that offers exceptional quality at an affordable price? The Premier Revolution 22″ 5pc Drum Kit is ideal. This ready-to-play package includes everything you need to start rocking out, from the five-piece kit itself to the hardware, cymbals, drum stool, and drumsticks.
The 7.5mm, six-ply poplar shells deliver a warm and versatile tone that will impress both beginners and experienced drummers alike. With Premier low-mass lugs, you can rely on this kit to maintain accurate tuning throughout performances.
Not only does the Premier Revolution Kit excel in sound quality, but it also boasts a hard-wearing PVC finish that adds durability and style to any stage. Plus, it comes with a matching 14” x 5” wooden snare drum to complete that classic Premier sound we all know and love.
Setting this drum kit apart is its affordability. As a favourite amongst drummers on a budget, the Premier Revolution Drum Kit offers outstanding value for money with the quality we drummers can only dream of. And it’s ready to rock in three different finishes!
7. Pearl Roadshow 6pc Drum Kit w/ Sabian Cymbals
Key Features
- 9-ply, 7mm poplar shells
- 20” ride, 16” crash, and 14” hi-hat cymbals
- Includes Sabian cymbal set, hardware, stick bag + 2x pairs of 5A drumsticks
Pros
- High-quality materials
- Durable yet elegant finish
- Comes with a complete set of hardware and cymbals
Cons
- On the upper end of “cheap”
Save some pennies in style with the Pearl Roadshow 6pc Drum Kit w/ Sabian Cymbals. With nine-ply poplar shells, this kit delivers a rich and resonant tone with exceptional volume.
Pearl have also equipped this Roadshow kit with a full range of hardware; cymbals, such as a 20” ride cymbal, 16” crash cymbal, 14” hi-hat cymbals; drumsticks; and a stick bag. This means you have everything you need to start drumming right away, without any additional purchases needed.
Crafted to incredibly high standards, the Pearl Roadshow kit guarantees durability and longevity. And it remains affordable, making it great for drummers on a budget.
8. Yamaha Rydeen 22″ Drum Kit w/Cymbals, Black Glitter
Key Features
- Complete with cymbals and hardware
- Durable and loud 6-ply poplar shells
- 45-degree bearing edge
Pros
- Easy to set up and play
- High-quality construction
- Includes quality cymbals and hardware
Cons
- Generic drumheads included may not produce desired tones
Designed with the needs of budget-conscious drummers in mind is the Yamaha Rydeen 22″ Drum Kit w/Cymbals. This 5-piece drum kit features a 22″ bass drum and comes complete with Paiste cymbals and hardware, leaving you to do the one thing you came for – drum!
We particularly love how versatile the kit is and how it can deliver with a range of genres, from rock to jazz. Its six-ply poplar shells produce superb volume, and the 45-degree bearing edge allows for extremely precise tones with punchy attack.
The kit’s high-quality construction ensures durability and reliability, even with its low price point, letting you play with confidence without breaking the bank.
9. VISIONDRUM+ Electronic Drum Kit with Stool and Headphones
Key Features
- 10 built-in drum kits for versatile playing options
- 250 high-quality percussion voices for a realistic sound
- USB and MIDI connectivity for easy integration with recording software and devices
Pros
- Realistic drum sounds for an immersive playing experience
- Versatile connectivity options for seamless integration
- Includes stool and headphones for convenience
Cons
- Small layout may not be suitable for adult drummers
We couldn’t leave out the VISIONDRUM+ Electronic Drum Kit with Stool and Headphones. Great for achieving a range of tones in limited spaces with its 10 built-in drum kits, drummers can explore various sounds and styles exactly when and where they want (as long as there’s a plug socket available!).
The kit offers 250 high-quality percussion voices, ensuring a realistic and immersive playing experience that will keep your drumming alive.
With USB and MIDI connectivity options, the kit can be easily linked with recording software and other devices, making it a versatile tool for both practising and recording sessions.
The VISIONDRUM+ Electronic Drum Kit comes complete with a stool and headphones, ensuring a hassle-free setup without the need for additional purchases.
10. Yamaha DTX402 Electronic Drum Kit
Key Features
- 10 built-in drum kits for versatile playing options
- 10 training functions to improve drumming skills
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
Pros
- Realistic drum sounds and responsive pads
- USB connectivity for recording and playing along with songs
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Does not include a drum throne or headphones
The Yamaha DTX402 Electronic Drum Kit offers an authentic drumming experience while remaining budget-friendly.
With 10 built-in drum kits and 10 training functions, this kit provides a wide range of options for players to explore different sounds and improve their skills. Its compact and lightweight design then allows for easy portability, making it ideal for drummers on the go.
It’s not just the array of drum sounds that’s impressive, it’s how realistic they are, too. The kit delivers an immersive playing experience that closely resembles the feel and sound of an acoustic drum set. USB connectivity enables you to record your performances and play along with your favourite songs, enhancing those all-important practice sessions.
Setting up and using the Yamaha DTX402 Electronic Drum Kit is a breeze thanks to its user-friendly interface, making it great for beginners and experienced drummers.
11. Alesis Nitro Max Electronic Drum Kit
Key Features
- Ultra-quiet, premium mesh drum heads for noise-free practice
- Large 10” dual-zone mesh snare for authentic response
- Three 8” mesh tom pads for natural feel and accuracy
Pros
- Realistic feel and response for an immersive playing experience
- Wide range of sounds and kits to explore different musical styles
- Easy integration with recording software for seamless recording sessions
Cons
- Assembly can be time-consuming
The Alesis Nitro Max Electronic Drum Kit had to have a spot on this list. Its ultra-quiet premium mesh drum heads ensure that you can practise and perform with all the right stick feedback and response you get from an acoustic kit, without disturbing those around you.
For beginner and experienced drummers, this electronic drum kit offers the feel and immersive playing experience of an acoustic with the added benefits of an electronic kit, such as learning tools and studio-class audio. It comes with 32 premium kits courtesy of the BFD sample library, 60 play-along tracks, a sequencer, a metronome, and a performance recorder.
Plus, you get a 90-day subscription to Drumeo and a 30-day subscription to Melodics Premium for access to world-class drum tuition.
12. Aerodrums Air Drumming Kit
Key Features
- Silent practice with headphones
- Reliable motion capture technology for accurate drumming performance
- Versatile tool for learning, MIDI control, and sample control
Pros
- Authentic drum sound for a realistic playing experience
- Responsive playing experience for precise drumming
- Functions as a learning tool, MIDI controller, and sample controller
Cons
- Setup may be too complex for some users
The Aerodrums Air Drumming Kit might be a curveball, but if you’re on a budget and want something convenient that’s also slightly out-of-the-box, it’s perfect. It allows you to practise silently with headphones and hone your skills, anytime, anywhere without disturbing others. The kit runs on your computer and utilises reliable motion capture technology, ensuring accurate and precise drumming performance.
It also functions as a MIDI controller and sample controller, offering drummers the flexibility to create music and experiment with different sounds.
Best drum sets for beginners
If you’re looking for your first kit, you, first, need to think about how big and comprehensive you want the kit to be. Beginners usually start with a five-piece kit as it provides the essential components to get started with. This typically includes a bass drum, snare drum, two rack toms, and a floor tom.
You should also decide whether to go for a complete setup or a shell pack. A complete setup includes all the necessary drums, hardware, and cymbals, whilst a shell pack offers just the drums – letting you choose the hardware and cymbals according to your preferences and budget.
For more in-depth information and recommendations for the best beginner drum sets, check out our guide to the best beginner drum sets.
Best drum set brands
Several renowned drum set brands consistently deliver exceptional quality and craftsmanship, establishing themselves as leaders in the industry.
Gretsch are a legendary brand known for their iconic drum sound. Their drums are widely used across various genres, from rock to jazz, thanks to their warmth, depth, and versatility.
Tama, another highly regarded brand, offer a wide range of drum sets that cater to different playing styles and preferences. With their superior construction and innovative features, Tama drums are favoured by many professional drummers.
Pearl are also extremely well-respected and have been producing high-quality drum sets for decades. They’re known for their durability, reliability, and excellent sound projection that delivers in any environment.
Finally, Mapex are another brand to consider, whatever your ability level. From their entry-level Horizon series to their professional-grade Black Panther series, Mapex ensure quality and value across all their product lines.
Need more options? Take a look at our guide to the 12 best drum set brands.
How to set up your kit
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you set up your kit in the most ergonomic way possible:
Level the bass drum: Start by ensuring your bass drum is level. This will provide stability and prevent any unwanted movement during play.
Set the stool height: Adjust your drum stool to a height that allows your thighs to be parallel to the ground and your knees at a 90-degree angle. This promotes proper posture and prevents strain.
Position drums and cymbals: Place your drums and cymbals within easy reach, ensuring they’re comfortable to play. Experiment with different placements until you find a configuration that works best for your range of motion.
Remember to consider the following tips as well:
- Mount your rack toms on cymbal stands using a clamp if possible; it makes positioning them easier
- Keep your snare drum flat and floor toms slightly angled towards you to optimise fluidity around the kit
- For tall drummers, adjust your setup to accommodate your height; sit back a little more than most to maintain a comfortable position
How to tune your kit
When it comes to tuning your drum kit, it’s essential to achieve the right tension on each drumhead to produce the sound you want. Tuning your drums properly can make a significant difference in the overall quality of your playing. Here are some simple steps to get you on your way!
Turn the tension rod with a drum key: To tune your drums, you’ll need a drum key. Start by placing the drum key on one of the tension rods and turn it clockwise to tighten or counterclockwise to loosen the rod.
Tighten all tension rods when installing a new drum head: Start by finger-tightening them until the head is snug against the bearing edge. This ensures that there is equal tension across the drumhead.
Tighten in a quarter, half, or whole turn at a time: Begin by tapping the drumhead near each tension rod to assess the pitch. If you hear any inconsistencies, adjust the tension rods accordingly. Gradually tighten the tension rods in a crisscross pattern, moving from one rod to its opposite counterpart. Make small adjustments, such as a quarter or half turn, until you achieve the desired pitch. Remember to listen carefully to the sound produced by each drum.
Acoustic vs. electronic drums
One of the main benefits of electronic drum kits is that they allow for silent practice. With rubber or mesh pads, you can drum with headphones – perfect for those who live in a flat and don’t want to disturb neighbours below! Or maybe you’re a night owl and don’t want to wake up your household – electronic kits can come in very handy.
Electronic drum sets also offer a wide range of customisable sounds. You can explore various drum kits, percussion instruments, and even non-drum sounds, and there are often built-in sound modules that allow you to create a unique sonic palette.
On the other hand, acoustic drums provide the authentic experience that electronic kits try to replicate. They offer a natural response and resonance that many drummers find essential for an expressive performance. There’s just something magical about the feel of hitting real drumheads and feeling the vibrations!
For more information about the best electronic drum sets available, check out this dedicated article.
How to upgrade your kit
If you’re looking to upgrade your drum kit, there are a couple of things you can do. Firstly, you can change the drum heads. Higher-quality drum heads improve the overall sound quality, providing better projection and clarity. Research different options and consider the sound you want before making a selection.
Secondly, you can invest in premium cymbals. Look for cymbals made from durable materials that produce a pleasing tone. Experimenting with different brands and models can help you find the cymbals that suit your musical style.
FAQs
How long do drum sets last?
Drum sets can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. Regular cleaning, tuning, and replacing worn-out parts will extend their lifespan. Quality construction and materials also contribute to durability; investing in a well-built drum set can ensure it lasts for a long time.
How much should a beginner drum set cost?
The price of a beginner drum set can vary depending on brand, quality, and included components. On average, a good beginner drum set can be found in the range of £300 to £750. It’s important to strike a balance between budget and quality, ensuring the drums offer decent sound and durability without breaking the bank.
Do drums get better with age?
Drums can develop a unique character and tonal quality over time, but it’s not always the case. The ageing process can affect the wood’s resonance and enhance certain frequencies. However, it ultimately depends on factors such as the drum’s construction, materials used, and how well it has been maintained. Regular care and proper storage can help preserve a drum set’s sound and performance over the years.
Final thoughts
Finding great-quality yet cheap drum sets doesn’t have to be a daunting task – and hopefully, our list of our favourites has helped! We’ve explored a range of options, from entry-level kits to more advanced selections, so there’s bound to be something for everyone.
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