Top Drum Brands: Unleash Your Inner Rhythm

The world of drumming is rich with a variety of top-tier brands that cater to both amateur and professional musicians. From the deep, resonant sounds of acoustic kits to the modern versatility of electronic sets, there's something for every type of drummer out there. With well-established names that have been trusted by drumming legends to new innovators creating unique sounds, each brand brings its distinctive style and quality to the table. For those eager to explore the best that the world of drums has to offer, we invite you to discover our curated list of the top drum brands below.

Illustration of drums

Best brands of drums in 2025

Pearl

Pearl Corporation is a renowned producer of high-quality drums and percussion instruments, with a rich history dating back to 1946. As a subsidiary of Pearl Musical Instrument Company, headquartered in Yachiyo City, Chiba, Japan, Pearl Corporation generates $23.3 million in annual revenue and operates significant distribution facilities in Nashville, Tennessee, and Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. The company is a major player in the global drum sets market, which is expected to grow with a CAGR of 5.1% from 2024 to 2031. Pearl drums are popular among drummers of all skill levels and are used in various musical genres. The company's products are manufactured in several countries, including Taiwan, China, Japan, and Thailand.

DW

Drum Workshop (DW), renowned for its exceptional drum craftsmanship since its founding in 1972 by Don Lombardi, is widely acclaimed as the foremost producer in the industry. With a commanding market share, DW ranks #1 in the United States and #3 globally in the acoustic drums segment. The company has made strides in the acoustic drums market, known for pioneering advancements in the tonal qualities of wood, alongside their trusted hardware and pedals, establishing themselves as the industry standard. DW's high-quality products are the choice of top drummers, and the company's growth strategy involved strategic acquisitions like Ovation Guitars and Slingerland Drum Company. In a significant move to strengthen its market presence, DW was acquired by Roland Corporation in 2022 for $65 million.

Tama

Tama Drums, a brand under Hoshino Gakki, has established itself as one of the most respected names in the drumming industry since its inception in 1961. Known for its innovative hardware and high-quality drum kits, Tama introduced the Imperial Star and Royal Star models, which successfully competed against more expensive American-made drums. In 1974, Hoshino began marketing drums under the Tama brand, significantly enhancing their quality and reputation. Tama's Starclassic drum kit, launched in 1994, is handcrafted and has been a flagship product for nearly 25 years. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation has made it a favorite among professional drummers, including notable artists like Lars Ulrich and Mike Portnoy. For an in-depth look at the history behind Tama Drums, visit their blog.

Yamaha

Yamaha is renowned as one of the leading producers of drums, holding a significant market share in the global drum set market. As of 2022, Yamaha commands a 28.1% market share in value, making it the largest manufacturer of drum sets worldwide. The company's dominance is attributed to its high-quality products and extensive range, catering to drummers of all skill levels. Yamaha's percussion instruments, including drum sets, are part of a broader market that was valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.1% from 2022 to 2028. With a strong presence in various regions, including North America and Asia Pacific, Yamaha continues to be a preferred choice among musicians. For more information about their drum sets, visit their official product page.

Ludwig

Ludwig Drums, established in 1909, is one of the most renowned and respected drum manufacturers globally, holding a market share of 14.3% in the drum set market. The brand's popularity soared in the 1960s after Ringo Starr of The Beatles used their drums, leading to a significant increase in sales and expansion of their Damen Avenue plant. Ludwig is known for its high-quality products, including the Classic Maple and Vistalite lines, as well as the highly acclaimed Black Beauty and Supraphonic snare drums. As a subsidiary of Conn-Selmer, Ludwig continues to be a major player in the percussion industry, with annual revenue ranging from $200 million to $500 million. The company's legacy includes equipping various musical ensembles, from high school bands to professional orchestras. For more information about their products, visit their official website.

Gretsch

Gretsch Drums, an iconic American brand, has been a leading producer of high-quality drums for over 140 years, renowned for its distinctive "That Great Gretsch Sound." In 2021, the professional segment of the percussion instruments market, which Gretsch dominates, accounted for over 65% of the total revenue. Gretsch Drums, along with other top brands, contributes significantly to market growth, especially in North America, which held 34.4% of the total revenue in 2021. The brand's continuous innovation, such as the introduction of the USA Custom Limited River Cypress kit in 2020, enhances its market presence. Gretsch's commitment to quality and sound has made it a favorite among professional and amateur drummers alike.

Mapex

Mapex, established by KHS Musical Instruments in 1989, is a renowned Taiwanese brand known for its high-quality drums, offering a diverse range of products including the introductory "Voyager" and "Horizon" series, the intermediate "Meridian Birch" and "Meridian Maple" series, and the professional "Saturn" and "Orion" series. Mapex drums are appreciated for their unique sound and durability, with features such as 7-ply, 5.8mm all-maple shells in the Meridian Maple series and 6-ply, 7.2mm all-birch shells in the Meridian Birch series. The brand has also gained popularity with its "Black Panther" snare drums and "Falcon" pedals. Over the years, Mapex has improved its quality significantly, making it a competitor to other top brands like Pearl and Yamaha. The Saturn series, in particular, is praised for its hybrid maple/walnut shells, providing a unique tone.

Sonor

Sonor is a renowned German drum brand celebrated for its impeccable build quality and superior tonal performance, particularly noted for its use of beech wood in some of its products, which sets it apart with pronounced highs. The brand offers a range of drum sets, including the compact AQ2 line, the higher-end Vintage Series, SQ1, and SQ2 sets. Sonor is one of the leading players in the global drum sets market, which is projected to surpass USD 216 million by 2031 with a CAGR of 5.1%. Known for their top-of-the-line kits such as the Phonic and Signature series, Sonor has a strong presence in the market, especially in Europe. The brand's commitment to quality and innovation makes it a favorite among professional and amateur drummers alike. For more insights into top drum brands that cater to every drummer's needs, check out this guide to top drum brands.

PDP

Pacific Drums and Percussion (PDP), founded by Drum Workshop, Inc. in 1999, is a renowned brand known for providing high-quality drums, pedals, and hardware with boutique-inspired features. PDP's products, such as the Concept Series and Spectrum lines, are popular among drummers of all levels, from students to professionals. The brand's drums are manufactured in China, Taiwan, and Mexico, utilizing both custom techniques and computerized machinery to ensure affordability and quality. PDP's instruments are embraced by a wide range of players, including notable universities and music institutions. The brand's commitment to making stylish and great-sounding instruments accessible has made it a favorite among drum enthusiasts.

Roland

Roland is a leading manufacturer of drum sets, holding a significant market share of 14.8% in the global drum set market. Known for its innovative electronic drums, Roland introduced the first set-type electronic drums in 1985 and solidified its position with the launch of V-Drums in 1997. The company's V-Drums Acoustic Design (VAD) Series has been instrumental in expanding its customer base. Roland's acquisition of Drum Workshop, Inc. in 2022 further strengthens its presence in the acoustic and hybrid drum markets. With a global sales composition that includes a well-balanced presence in North America, Europe, China, and Japan, Roland continues to innovate and grow in the drumming industry. You can find more information about the acquisition of Drum Workshop, Inc.