Who is this for?

Beginner drummer focused on rhythm

You want to build up your syncopation gradually and check your timing with a metronome or practice function.

Practising in a noise-sensitive space

You want to play with headphones, while also bearing in mind the audible impact of pad strikes and pedal vibrations.

Drummer with limited floor space

You have a small, dedicated practice area and need to fit in the kit, stool and room to move.

What should you look for when buying?

What to consider What should you check? Who is this most important for?
Timing and practice functions Try the metronome with a pattern that uses both hands and feet. Check which Coach, training or recording functions are included with each model. When I’m learning syncopation, I want to be able to follow the beat while practising different parts. Around 31% of consumers make timing their top buying priority.
Noise from pads and pedals Compare the type of kick pedal and, if possible, try the kit on a similar floor. Headphones won’t eliminate mechanical tapping sounds. I want to be able to play with headphones, but I also need to consider tapping sounds and possible vibrations through the floor. Around 25% of consumers prioritise reducing noise disturbance.
Space for the whole kit Measure the usable floor space and mark out the kit and stool. Check that your arms and pedals can move freely. If my practice area is small, I need to be able to play comfortably with the stool in place too. Around 25% of consumers prioritise a complete setup that fits.
What’s included Check the contents of the exact kit version, including whether a stool and headphones are included, and see which connections you need. I want to know in advance what I’ll need in addition to the drum kit to make my practice area usable. Around 19% of consumers prioritise the total cost and the parts they’ll need.

Common buying mistakes

  • Assuming a headphone socket guarantees silent practice

    Headphones reduce the sound you hear, but mechanical pad strikes and pedal taps can still be audible or transmit through the floor.

    Pay particular attention to the kick pedal and, if possible, try the setup on a similar floor. Be considerate of your neighbours.

  • Comparing only the stated kit dimensions with the room

    You also need space for the stool and for your arms and pedals to move. The final layout can also vary depending on how you position the kit.

    Draw up a floor plan in advance, including the kit, stool and the space you need to play.

  • Assuming a standalone kit includes all the accessories

    According to Thomann, a stool and headphones are not included with the Millenium MPS-150X. So check the contents of the specific kit version.

    Before buying, check which parts you already have and which you still need.

Brands to compare

Roland

The TD-02KV is worth considering if you’re looking for timing functions, a mesh snare and a beaterless kick pedal.

  • Roland lists a metronome and Coach functions for the TD-02KV.
  • The rack has a wider playing layout than the TD-02K. That alone doesn’t tell you whether the kit will fit your space, so measure the complete setup.

Yamaha

The DTX402K is worth comparing if training functions and the stated kit footprint are important to you.

  • Yamaha lists ten training functions, a KU100 kick unit and an average footprint of 800 × 1000 mm for the DTX402K.
  • The stated footprint doesn’t automatically include space for the player, stool and movement.

Alesis

The Nitro Max Kit is worth comparing if you’re looking for mesh pads, a kick tower and recording or play-along functions.

  • Alesis lists a metronome, recorder and kick pedal for the kit.
  • Alesis gives an approximate assembled size, and the final layout may vary. Check that it fits and see how much contact noise it makes on your floor.

Millenium

The MPS-150X is a mesh kit worth comparing if the stated floor space and built-in metronome are important to you.

  • Thomann lists an approximate footprint of 110 × 80 cm and a metronome range of 30 to 280 bpm for this kit.
  • According to Thomann, a stool and headphones are not included with the standalone kit. For the mesh kick pad, Thomann recommends using the plastic side of the beater to reduce wear.

Joybuy products

Related products will be available soon.

Frequently asked questions

Which function should I try first to learn syncopation?

Start with a metronome at a tempo where you can play the pattern correctly. Then compare whether you’d like to check your timing with Coach functions, training functions or a recording. The options available vary by model.

How do I set up an electronic drum kit in a small practice space?

Don’t just measure the space for the rack: put a stool in the intended position too, and check your arm and pedal movements. Manufacturers and retailers list the kit dimensions, but the final layout may vary.

How do I maintain the mesh kick pad on the Millenium MPS-150X?

Follow the instructions for your model. For the Millenium MPS-150X, Thomann recommends using the black plastic side of the beater; according to Thomann, the felt side can wear out the mesh head more quickly.

What are my rights when I buy a drum kit online?

For a standard online consumer purchase, you’ll usually have a statutory 14-day cooling-off period after delivery, subject to legal exceptions. You’re also covered by the legal guarantee if the product doesn’t do what you could reasonably expect under normal use; this is separate from any commercial guarantee. ACM ConsuWijzer explains these rights.

Can I practise with headphones at any time?

Wearing headphones doesn’t automatically mean you won’t cause a disturbance at any time: mechanical tapping may still be audible. According to the Dutch government, local council rules on neighbour noise may apply. If needed, agree practice times with your neighbours and take account of the rules that apply to your local area and circumstances.