🥁 The Ultimate Beginner Drum Kit Buying Guide 2025: Best Acoustic Kits for Kids, Teens & Adults
Hello and welcome if you don’t find what you want or need more help contact me at Brendanjonesdrums@gmail.com, I’ll be happy to help you.
If you're reading this, you’re either an aspiring drummer yourself or a parent/gift-giver looking for the perfect first kit for a child or teenager. Congratulations! Choosing a first drum kit can be confusing, but it doesn't have to be.
I'm Brendan, and I’ve been playing drums for 25 years and teaching students across Europe for the last 15 years. I've compiled my top recommendations for the best beginner drum kits to ensure you get a great start without breaking the bank.
This guide focuses on acoustic drum kits that offer the best value, quality, and come in at a price-conscious €300–€500 range (though the junior kit is less!). Every kit here is a complete package, so you'll have almost everything you need to start playing right away and free Shipping to your door from a professional European company. Just a quick pro-tip: always double-check if drum sticks are included—and maybe grab a spare pair! 😉
👶 Best Beginner Drum Kit for Children (Ages 4–7)
For the youngest aspiring drummers, a "junior" or "micro" kit is essential. These kits are scaled down for comfort and reach, making the first lessons fun and accessible.
Featured Kit: Millenium Focus Junior Drum Set
Millenium Focus Junior Drum Set
Perfect starter size, great build quality for the price, minimal footprint .Key Size 10” Bass Drum (perfectly sized for this age group).
BUY HERE: Best Price Thomann 179€
Best For Young children, Age 4, Age 5, Age 6, Age 7.
👦 Best Beginner Drum Kit for Older Kids (Ages 8 and Up)
At this age, kids can often transition into a slightly larger beginner-level kit that will last them much longer before needing an upgrade. A kit with an 18” bass drum is a great compromise between a junior kit and a full adult-sized kit.
Featured Kit: Millenium Focus 18 Drum Bundle Red
Millenium Focus 18 Drum Bundle Red
Why I Recommend It A complete bundle with all essential hardware and headphones! It’s an ideal first drum kit for a 10-year-old or pre-teen. Key Size 18” Bass Drum (Comfortable for this age range).
BUY HERE: Best Price Thomann 399€
Best For Older Kids, Pre-Teens, Age 8 and up.
👨🎤 Best Beginner Drum Kits for Teens & Adults
A teenager or adult should jump straight into a full-size drum kit. These kits are more durable, have a better sound, and will be comfortable to play for years to come. I have two great options here depending on whether you prioritise accessories or overall drum quality.
Millenium MX420 Studio Set BL
Millenium MX420 Studio Set BL
This kit offers an incredible amount of gear for the price.
Key Feature: It comes with two crash/ride cymbals in addition to the hi-hats, giving you a wider range of sounds right away.
Key Size: 20” Bass Drum (standard full-size).
BUY HERE:
Best Price Thomann€433Approximate Price: €433
Best For: The budget-conscious adult beginner, or a teenager's first drum set who wants lots of pieces to hit!
Option 2: Best Sound Quality Upgrade
Gretsch Drums Renegade 20" Grey Sparkle
Gretsch Drums Renegade 20" Grey Sparkle
For a slightly higher budget, you get the benefit of a brand with an excellent reputation for build quality and tone.
Key Feature: While it has fewer cymbals than the Millenium kit, the quality of the drums (shells and hardware) is superior. This translates to a richer, better sound, which can be very motivating for a beginner.
Key Size: 20” Bass Drum (standard full-size).
BUY HERE:
Best Price Thomann 479€Approximate Price: €479
Best For: The beginner who prioritises better sound and a kit that will hold its value longer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do these kits include everything I need?
A: Yes, all the featured kits are "complete sets." They include the drums, cymbals, all necessary stands (hardware), a drum throne (seat), and a bass drum pedal. You are ready to play!
Q: Should I buy an acoustic or electronic drum kit?
A: If noise is a major concern (e.g., in an apartment), an electronic drum kit is the better option. See Here or get in contact with me Brendanjonesdrums@gmail.com
📬 Need More Help? Let's Chat!
Choosing your first instrument is a big deal. If this guide didn't fully answer your question, or if you need personalised advice on accessories (like the best budget drum sticks or noise reduction tips), please don't hesitate to reach out to me directly!
Email: Brendanjonesdrums@gmail.com
Happy drumming! – Brendan Jones
