Top 13 Drum Types for Beginners – Guide to Get You Started

Those who are just starting with drums can be both excited and overwhelmed with so many different types of drums to choose from.

The right drum can make a big difference in your learning experience, helping you build essential skills and keep you motivated as you progress.

In this guide, we’ll provide with the top drum types perfect for beginners, each offering benefits that can shape your drumming style and technique.

We have no doubt this insight will help you make the decision much more easily.

1. Acoustic Drum Kit

An acoustic drum kit is the most common and traditional type of drum set, widely used across various genres of music.

It consists of multiple components, such as:

• Snare drum
• Bass drum
• Tom-toms
• Hi-hat
• Crash
• Ride cymbals

This kit offers a dynamic and authentic drumming experience, making it a perfect choice for beginners who want to immerse themselves in real drumming techniques.

2. Snare Drum

The snare drum is often considered the heart of any drum kit, known for its sharp and distinctive cracking sound.

It plays a central role in maintaining rhythm and is essential for practicing fundamental drumming techniques.

Beginners who focus on mastering the snare can develop strong timing and rudimentary skills that translate into other drumming elements.

3. Bass Drum

The bass drum is the largest drum in the kit, providing the low-end thump that drives the rhythm.

Played with a foot pedal, it serves as the foundation for most drum beats, keeping time and creating deep, resonant sounds that underpin the music.

Beginners will find it crucial to learn how to keep tempo and manage coordination between hands and feet.

4. Electronic Drum Kit

An electronic drum kit offers versatility that acoustic kits cannot match, especially for beginners with limited space or noise concerns.

These kits come with a variety of sounds and can be played quietly with headphones, making them ideal for practice in noise-sensitive environments.

They also provide the chance to experiment with different drum tones and styles without needing multiple setups.

5. Hi-Hat Cymbals

The hi-hat is a crucial component of any drum kit, consisting of two cymbals mounted on a stand and played with both hands and feet. It is commonly used to keep time and control the dynamics of a song.

Beginners will find it instrumental in mastering techniques such as open and closed hi-hat patterns, which add a distinct rhythmic feel to a performance.

6. Crash Cymbals

Crash cymbals add sharp, loud accents to drumming, perfect for highlighting important parts of a song.

Typically used in rock, pop, and metal music, they create a powerful sound that adds drama and intensity to a performance. For beginners, learning when and how to use the crash is essential for adding dynamics to their playing.

7. Ride Cymbal

The ride cymbal provides a steady rhythmic foundation that is often used in jazz and rock music.

It produces a lighter, more consistent sound compared to crash cymbals and is typically played with the tip of the drumstick.

Beginners who want to improve their timing and rhythmic feel will benefit from incorporating the ride cymbal into their drumming practice.

8. Toms (Mounted and Floor Toms)

Toms are essential for adding depth and color to your drumming, particularly during fills and transitions. Most drum kits come with two or three toms, mounted and floor varieties.

Beginners can experiment with these drums to create smooth transitions between different parts of a song, helping them develop versatility and creativity.

9. Bongos

Bongos are small, hand-played drums that offer a fun, portable drumming experience.

Originating from Cuban music, they are ideal for beginners interested in world music and developing a strong sense of rhythm through hand percussion.

Bongos are light, easy to transport, and perfect for informal jam sessions.

10. Cajón

The cajón is a versatile, box-shaped drum that can be played by hand. Its compact design makes it perfect for acoustic performances or those seeking a portable percussion instrument.

Beginners can use the cajón to explore rhythm patterns without the complexity of a full drum kit, making it a great option for busking, small gigs, or home practice.

11. Electronic Drum Pads (for Hybrid Kits)

Electronic drum pads offer a compact, versatile way for beginners to explore electronic drumming without committing to a full electronic kit.

They can be added to an acoustic drum set for a hybrid experience, allowing drummers to experiment with modern and electronic sounds while maintaining the feel of traditional drumming.

12. Marching Drums (Snare, Bass, and Tenor)

Marching drums are specifically designed for use in marching bands and drumlines, known for their durability and powerful sound. Beginners interested in joining a school ensemble or a marching band will find these drums essential.

They are built to be sturdy and loud, making them perfect for outdoor performances.

13. Djembe

The djembe is a hand-played drum from West Africa, known for its wide tonal range and versatility. Its goblet shape and lightweight design make it a great portable instrument for beginners who are interested in learning hand percussion.

The djembe can produce a variety of sounds, from deep bass tones to sharp slaps, and is often used in group drumming or for solo performances.

The Bottom Line

Selecting the right drum type can significantly impact a beginner’s drumming experience.

With so many options, it’s crucial to consider your space, sound preferences, and practice needs.

Starting with the right drum will set you on the path to mastering rhythm and enjoying the art of drumming.