Top Drum Brands That Beat the Rest!

Drumming enthusiasts and professionals are always on the lookout for the best brands that produce high-quality drums and percussion instruments. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, finding the right brand is essential for achieving the desired sound and performance. From renowned companies that have been crafting drums for decades to innovative newcomers pushing the boundaries of drumming technology, the market is filled with options that cater to every musical style and budget. Curious to discover which brands stand out in the drumming world? Read on below to explore our curated list of the best drum brands available today.

Illustration of drum

Best brands of drum in 2025

Yamaha

Yamaha is renowned as one of the leading producers of drum sets, holding a significant market share of 28.1% in the global drum set market as of 2022. The company's dominance is evident in both acoustic and electronic drums, with a strong presence in various musical genres. Yamaha's market leadership is supported by its extensive product range, including digital keyboards and audio equipment, contributing to a global musical instruments market size of approximately Y=860 billion in 2016. The company's electronic drums segment is also projected to grow, with the global electronic drums market expected to reach USD 373.13 million by 2029. Yamaha's commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its position as a top choice among drummers worldwide.

Pearl

Pearl Corporation is a renowned leader in the production of high-quality drums and percussion instruments, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2021. As a subsidiary of Pearl Musical Instrument Company, headquartered in Yachiyo City, Chiba, Japan, Pearl Corporation distributes products manufactured in company-owned factories in Taiwan, China, and other locations. The company is known for its strict Japanese manufacturing standards and unique proprietary techniques, which have made its Export Series drum set the number one selling drum set of all time since its introduction in 1980. Pearl products are distributed in over 90 countries worldwide, and the company operates significant distribution facilities in Nashville, Tennessee, and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. With a revenue of $23.3 million, Pearl Corporation remains a major player in the global drums kits market.

Ludwig

Ludwig Drums, founded in 1909, is one of the leading manufacturers of drum sets globally, holding a significant market share of 14.3% in value. As a subsidiary of Conn-Selmer, Ludwig produces a wide range of percussion instruments, including timpani, drum kits, and drum hardware. The company has a rich history, having produced over 130,000 drums per year during its peak, particularly after the "Ringo effect" in the 1960s. Ludwig's annual revenue ranges from $200 million to $500 million, solidifying its position in the competitive drum set market. With a long-standing presence, Ludwig continues to be a preferred choice among drummers of all skill levels. For more on their impressive range of products, visit the Ludwig Drums official website.

Tama

Tama Drums, a brand under Hoshino Gakki, is renowned for its high-quality drums and hardware, with research and development as well as production of professional drum lines based in Seto, Japan, and less expensive models manufactured in Guangzhou, China. Since its inception in 1974, Tama has innovated products like the unique octobans and integrated Camco's engineering, significantly enhancing their drum quality. Tama's decision to move some production to China in 2002 helped make their drums more affordable without compromising quality. The brand continues to maintain high standards, with skilled Japanese craftsmen overseeing production in China. Tama's commitment to quality has made it a favorite among professional and amateur drummers alike. For more information, check out the Tama Drums Wikipedia page.

Gretsch

Gretsch is a renowned brand in the drum set market, known for its high-quality instruments that cater to drummers of all skill levels. As one of the major players, Gretsch holds a significant market share, although specific percentages are not provided in recent reports. The company is part of the competitive drum set market, which was valued at $712.98 million USD in 2022 and is expected to grow with a CAGR of 1.75% to reach $791.37 million USD by 2028. Gretsch drums are popular in various musical genres, including rock, pop, jazz, and blues. The brand's commitment to innovation and quality has made it a favorite among professional and amateur drummers alike.

DW

Drum Workshop (DW) is renowned as one of the most respected custom drum companies worldwide, founded in 1972 by Don Lombardi. With a market share of #1 in the US and #3 globally for acoustic drums, DW has earned its reputation through innovative advancements in tonal qualities and craftsmanship. The company is trusted by top drummers and is recognized for its high-quality drums, hardware, and pedals. DW's sales span over 60 countries, and it has approximately 200 employees, with production bases in the US, China, Taiwan, and Thailand. Following its acquisition by Roland in 2022, DW continues to innovate, particularly in the development of hybrid drums. For more information, visit their official website.

Sonor

Sonor, established in 1875, is one of the oldest and most renowned percussion companies globally, known for its high-quality drum kits and hardware. The company has a rich history, including the invention of the modern screw thread drum-construction and the metal snare drum in the early 20th century. Sonor's drums have been favored by prominent artists such as Nicko McBrain of Iron Maiden and Danny Carey of Tool. The company's innovative designs, such as the Sonorlite and Hilite series, have contributed to its reputation for producing drums that resonate like a violin or guitar body. Sonor continues to be a significant player in the drum set market, which is projected to grow with a CAGR of 5.1% from 2024 to 2031. For more detailed information, visit their Wikipedia page.

Roland

Roland, a leading Japanese manufacturer of electronic musical instruments, stands as the second largest producer of drum sets globally, holding a market share of 14.8% in value. Known for its innovative products, Roland has been a pioneer in electronic drums since the launch of its "V-Drums" in 1997 and the "VAD Series" in 2020, which expanded its customer base. The company's acquisition of Drum Workshop, Inc. in 2022 further solidified its position in the drumming world, combining electronic and acoustic drum technologies. Roland's global sales capabilities and well-balanced sales force across regions like North America, Europe, China, and Japan contribute to its strong market presence. The company continues to innovate, focusing on hybrid drums and integrating DW's hardware and software capabilities. You can find more information about their products on their website.

PDP

Pacific Drums and Percussion (PDP), founded by Drum Workshop, Inc. (DW) in 1999, is a renowned brand in the drum industry, offering boutique-inspired features and DW innovations. PDP's products, such as the Concept Series drums and hardware, are highly regarded for their quality and accessibility to a wide range of drummers, from students to professionals. The brand's instruments are designed in California and have been embraced by various musicians, including those from notable universities and music institutions. PDP's market presence is part of the larger percussion instruments market, which was dominated by North America with a 34.4% share in 2021. The brand's commitment to providing stylish and great-sounding instruments has made it a favorite among drum enthusiasts. For more information, visit the PDP official website.

Mapex

Mapex Drums, established by KHS Musical Instruments in 1989, is renowned for its high-quality and diverse range of drum sets, including the introductory "Voyager" and "Horizon" series, the intermediate "Meridian Birch" and "Meridian Maple" series, and the professional "Saturn" and "Orion" series. With seven different lines of drums, Mapex caters to all levels of drummers, from beginners to professionals. The brand is known for its innovative products, such as the "Black Panther" snare drums and the customizable "MyDentity" line launched in 2013. Mapex drums are praised for their performance and durability, making them a popular choice among drummers worldwide. The brand's long existence and consistent quality have earned it credibility in the music industry. Discover more about whether Mapex is a good drum brand.