Top 5 Drum Sets Under $500 in 2024
If you’re looking to start drumming or upgrade your kit without overspending, there are several great drum sets available in 2024 for under $500. These kits are ideal for beginners, intermediate players, or drummers who want reliable gear without compromising on quality. Here’s a look at the top 5 drum sets you can grab for $500 or less this year.
1. Pearl Midtown 4-Piece Complete Drum Set
Price: $499
What’s Included: Kick drum, rack tom, floor tom, snare, hardware
Best For: Gigging drummers or those needing a compact kit
The Pearl Midtown is a compact, portable drum set that delivers full-sized sound. Designed for drummers who want a lightweight kit with powerful projection, this 4-piece set is perfect for gigging musicians or those with limited space. The 16" kick drum and poplar shells provide a rich tone that works well for various genres. It’s ideal for players who need a small but mighty kit that’s easy to transport. Pair it with high-quality cymbals, and the Pearl Midtown becomes a serious contender for any drummer on a budget.
2. Ludwig BackBeat Complete 5-Piece Drum Set With Hardware and Cymbals
Price: $499
What’s Included: Kick drum, two rack toms, floor tom, snare, cymbals, hardware
Best For: Beginners and drummers looking for a comprehensive setup
The Ludwig BackBeat Complete offers a full-sized 5-piece kit with everything a drummer needs to get started, including cymbals and hardware. Its poplar shells provide solid tone and projection, and the included Zildjian Planet Z cymbals offer good sound right out of the box. Known for its durable construction, this kit is perfect for beginners who want an affordable set that doesn’t sacrifice quality. It’s a well-rounded kit that’s great for practice and small performances.
3. Alesis Nitro Mesh Electronic Drum Kit
Price: $399
What’s Included: Mesh snare, toms, kick drum pad, cymbals, module, hardware
Best For: Apartment dwellers and electronic enthusiasts
For drummers looking to practice quietly or experiment with electronic sounds, the Alesis Nitro Mesh Kit is one of the best electronic kits under $500. Its mesh heads give a realistic drumming feel while keeping noise levels low, making it perfect for apartment living. The module offers 40 drum kits and over 385 sounds, allowing for versatility in both practice and performance. The Nitro Mesh is a great entry point into the world of electronic drumming.
4. TAMA Stagestar 5-Piece Complete Drum Set With 22" Bass Drum
Price: $499
What’s Included: Kick drum, two rack toms, floor tom, snare, cymbals, hardware
Best For: Drummers seeking a durable kit for practice or gigs
The TAMA Stagestar is a reliable 5-piece kit, designed for beginners and intermediate players who want a sturdy, well-constructed drum set. The 22" bass drum provides powerful low-end punch, while the poplar shells deliver great sound across various styles. The set includes a full set of hardware and cymbals, making it a great value for drummers who want a ready-to-play kit at an affordable price. The Stagestar’s durability makes it ideal for regular practice and small to medium gigs.
5. DW PDP Encore 5-Piece Drum Set
Price: $499
What’s Included: Kick drum, two rack toms, floor tom, snare, cymbals, hardware
Best For: Players seeking DW’s quality at an affordable price
The PDP Encore by DW offers quality craftsmanship and sound at a budget-friendly price. Its poplar shells provide excellent tone, and the included hardware is durable enough for regular use. This set also comes with all the essentials, including cymbals, making it a comprehensive option for beginners and intermediate players alike. With the PDP Encore, drummers get a taste of DW’s renowned quality at an entry-level price.
Conclusion
Drummers on a budget in 2024 have plenty of great options for under $500, whether you're looking for a portable kit like the Pearl Midtown, an electronic setup like the Alesis Nitro Mesh, or a full acoustic set with all the trimmings like the Ludwig BackBeat. Each of these kits offers fantastic value, balancing durability, sound quality, and affordability to ensure you can start drumming or upgrade your kit without breaking the bank. Happy playing!