15 Best Drum Set Brands Of All Time, Ranked

Drums are the heartbeat of music; they drive the rhythm section and ignite the energy of so many genres. Over the years, legendary brands have risen to the top of the drum set world, each with its own rich history and unique contributions to music history.

Get ready to dive into the best drum set brands of all time. These names have shaped not just kits but the soundtrack of our lives, powering hit songs and unforgettable performances.

15. Natal

Starting at number 15 on our list is Natal. This brand built its reputation by specializing in Latin percussion instruments before expanding into full drum kits. Their rich history, which includes supplying instruments for legends like Led Zeppelin and Fleetwood Mac, speaks to their quality and value.

Natal’s Arcadia range is a particularly strong offering, providing both shell packs and hardware for a complete setup. This makes it a great option for beginners and experienced drummers who need a versatile kit. Natal’s commitment to affordable, powerful drums makes them a standout in the industry.

14. WHD

Number 14 on our list is WHD, a relative newcomer that’s made a big impact since its 2011 launch. WHD focuses on helping drummers level-up their playing, making them a popular choice by offering premium features at accessible prices.

This commitment to quality shines through in their Elite and Genesis series, equipped with details like triple flange hoops and high-tension lugs. WHD also thinks outside the box – their Portable Busker Shell Kit is a compact, gig-ready solution. WHD might lack the lengthy heritage of other brands, but its quick rise shows how much it resonates with today’s drummers.

13. Zildjian

At number 13, we find a name synonymous with drumming itself: Zildjian. Founded in 1623, this brand is the world’s leading cymbal and drumstick maker. Its Armenian name, ‘cymbal smith,’ reflects its centuries-long legacy of peerless craftsmanship. Zildjian’s constant innovation and quality have made their cymbals the choice of top drummers across genres, from rock to metal and beyond.

Icons like Travis Barker and Lars Ulrich have hammered out history on Zildjian cymbals. Their sound-fueled iconic moments – think of the 90,000 cymbal backorder after The Beatles’ Ed Sullivan Show performance! Now in the hands of the 15th generation of the Zildjian family, this brand continues to shape music after 400 years of setting the standard for drummers worldwide.

12. Slingerland

At number 12, we have Slingerland. Founded in 1912 by H.H. Slingerland, this brand has a fascinating journey from ukuleles into drums, beginning its innovative drum manufacturing in 1927. The next year, they made history by introducing complete drum kits to the market.

Slingerland’s name became synonymous with quality, especially during the big band era, with legends like Buddy Rich and Gene Krupa behind their kits. While facing ownership changes, the enduring love for vintage Slingerland kits among both rock and jazz drummers shows their lasting impact.

11. PDP

Next up at number 11 is PDP (Pacific Drums and Percussion). Founded in 1999 as a subsidiary of the renowned Drum Workshop Inc., PDP set out to make high-quality drums accessible to more players. They succeed by incorporating DW’s design innovations into their kits, quickly becoming a favorite among drummers of all levels.

Their award-winning Concept Series stands out for exceptional sound and build. Global rock stars like Chad Smith and Daru Jones rock PDP on stage, proving that outstanding quality can come at a great price.

10. Premier

At number 10, we have Premier – a name representing British drumming excellence since 1922.  Legends like The Who’s Keith Moon thundered behind their kits, and their innovative spirit continues today. Premier balances modern trends with classic looks, making them a favorite among drummers seeking both style and performance.

Their Genista Heritage and Centenary series honor the brand’s history with timeless design and up-to-date performance.  Premier’s influence echoes through decades of music, shaping drumming history with their powerful sound.

9. Noble & Cooley

At number 9, we have a brand steeped in history: Noble & Cooley. Founded in 1854, this is one of America’s oldest drum makers, its legacy stretching back to supplying drums for the Civil War. Yet, it’s their modern custom drums that truly shine.

Noble & Cooley’s innovations, like solid-shell construction, changed the way drums are built.  Icons like Alex Van Halen and Dave Krusen choose their snares for a reason – Noble & Cooley is synonymous with unmatched quality and powerful sound.

8. Mapex

At number 8, we find Mapex.  This Taiwanese brand delivers a vast range of drums perfect for the studio or the stage. Their Black Panther series packs a powerful punch, making it a favorite for live drumming.

Drummers like Dom Famularo and Ced Mitchell rock Mapex thanks to their winning blend of quality, affordability, and style. Mapex’s commitment to accessible hybrid-shell drums earns them serious respect among players seeking performance and value.

7. Sonor

At number 7, it’s Sonor. This German powerhouse has earned the nickname “The Rolls of Drums” for a reason. Innovation and uncompromising quality are their hallmark. They constantly evolve to meet the changing needs of drummers while maintaining their signature heavy, high-performance construction.

Endorsed by luminaries like Benny Greb and Danny Carey, Sonor’s reputation speaks for itself. Their ability to innovate quickly keeps them at the forefront, making Sonor drums a smart choice for players of all levels.

6. Ludwig

At number 6, we have a true icon: Ludwig. Founded in 1909, this brand surged to global fame when Ringo Starr played their drums with The Beatles in the 1960s. That moment changed drumming history and made Ludwig synonymous with professional quality.

Celebrated for their build quality, Ludwig drums have powered the sound of legends like Alex Van Halen and Questlove. Their focus on versatile kits perfect for players of all levels ensures Ludwig’s continued place at the top of the drum world.

5. Tama

Number 5 belongs to Tama, a name that means rock-solid reliability and stunning finishes. Since 1974, they’ve pushed drum design forward, crafting pro-level kits with meticulous attention to detail.  Their Imperialstar, Starclassic, and space-saving Club Jam series are all known for exceptional tone.

From pop artists like Sarah Jones to rock powerhouses like James Agnew, Tama’s appeal crosses genres. Their commitment to quality puts them on stages worldwide, making them a true drummer’s brand.

4. Pearl

At number four, we have Pearl. With over 75 years of experience, their innovative shell technology stands out producing resonant, powerful drums. Their reputation for quality attracts iconic drummers like Deep Purple’s Ian Paice and Dream Theater’s Mike Mangini.

From affordable, beginner-friendly Export Series kits to pro-level gear, Pearl’s commitment to excellent sound makes them a favorite among drummers of all skill levels.

3. Gretsch

Gretsch takes the number 3 spot, its legacy stretching back to 1883. Their signature warm, rich tone and exquisite finishes have made them the choice of icons like Charlie Watts and Phil Collins.

Decades of consistent quality have made Gretsch a fixture in music history. Their Catalina Club Rock Kit offers a taste of that vintage magic at an accessible price. While their tuning reputation might be a challenge, that classic Gretsch sound and aesthetic keep drummers coming back for more.

2. DW (Drum Workshop)

At number 2, we have DW (Drum Workshop).  Their focus on the drummer’s needs is evident in everything from their top-notch hardware to their customizable kits.  Founded in 1972, they started with just hardware – showing how deeply they understand what drummers want.

Their Performance, Design, and Classic series showcase innovations like true pitch tuning lugs, proving their commitment to detail. Icons like Roger Taylor and Dave Grohl choose DW for a reason. They’ve helped define the sound of modern drumming. Their constant drive to elevate both technology and performance sets DW apart.

1. Yamaha

Finally, at number 1, it’s Yamaha, a true giant in the drumming world. Since their meticulous entry into the market in 1967, Yamaha drums have set a standard for craftsmanship and innovation.  Their iconic Recording Custom series is the best-selling drum set of all time,  known for its exceptional tone and rock-solid build.

Legends across genres choose Yamaha – their roster proves their consistency and performance.  From music education programs to pioneering electronic drums, Yamaha champions the art of drumming. They don’t just sell drums. They’ve shaped the soundtrack of our lives for generations, earning them the top spot.