How much does an electronic drum set cost?

How Much Does an Electronic Drum Kit Cost? A Realistic Guide for Beginners and Pros

An electronic drum kit can cost anywhere between €300 and €9000, depending on build quality, materials, features, and brand. With so many models on the market, from basic practice pads to full-on professional e-drum kits, the price range can be quite confusing. In this article, we’ll break down what to expect in terms of cost — whether you’re just starting out, already an experienced drummer, or looking for a high-end setup.

Why Buy an Electronic Drum Kit?

One of the most common reasons to buy an electronic drum set is noise control. Let’s face it — acoustic drums are loud, take up a lot of space, and aren’t always welcome in small bedrooms or quiet neighborhoods.

Another great reason, especially for beginners, is the ability to practice privately. You can experiment, make mistakes, and learn new techniques without anyone hearing every beat you play. Back when I was learning to drum, I had a full acoustic kit in the attic. I often played along to records, and while most neighbors didn’t mind, there was one who clearly wasn’t a fan (ironically, he could have been a great sponsor for a silent electronic set). Practicing basic patterns like paradiddles or trying to solo became a problem. Looking back, an e-drum kit would’ve been the perfect solution — but back then, they were way out of my budget.

So… What Does an Electronic Drum Kit Cost?

There’s no single answer here. Some toy stores sell so-called “electronic drum kits” for a few dozen euros — these are barely suitable for kids to tap on, let alone for serious practice. At the other end of the spectrum, high-end e-drum kits used by touring professionals can easily cost upwards of €9000.

Let’s break it down by user level.

Beginner & Intermediate Electronic Drum Kits

If you’re new to drumming or want a secondary kit for silent practice, you should expect to spend at least €800 for a solid new entry-level model. At this price, you’ll get good sounds, reliable pads, and a responsive module that lets you focus on playing — not on fixing glitches or dealing with poor sound quality.

Brands like Alesis offer excellent beginner kits in this range. For example, models like the Alesis Nitro Max or Alesis Command series give you great value with multiple pads, dual-zone triggers, and modern features. If you prefer Roland, expect prices to start around €1100, but these kits hold their value very well and are known for durability and expressiveness.

Professional Electronic Drum Kits

If you’re planning to perform live or record in a studio, you’ll need a professional-grade e-drum kit. These typically include:

Separate audio outputs on the module (so sound engineers can mix your kick, snare, toms, and cymbals independently)
High-end pad materials that feel like real drumheads and cymbals
Extensive sound libraries or VST integration for pro-level realism

In short: it should play and sound as close to an acoustic kit as possible — while still being controllable and silent when needed.

Expect to pay at least €3500 for a truly pro-level kit. Flagship models like the Roland TD-50 series meet these criteria and are frequently used by touring and studio musicians. While even the best e-kit still can’t perfectly replicate the feel of a top-quality acoustic set, they’ve come impressively close.

Can You Get a Cheaper Kit?

Yes — there are more budget-friendly options for beginners. Brands like Millenium, Behringer, and even Alesis offer basic models starting around €400. This is what I would consider the bare minimum if you’re looking for a decent new e-kit that isn’t just a toy.

Be cautious with anything cheaper. Ultra-budget e-drum kits are often poorly built, unstable, and sound bad. They can be frustrating to play and might end up discouraging you from drumming altogether.

What About Buying Second-Hand?

Buying a used e-drum kit can be a smart way to save money — if you know what to look for. Pads, triggers, and modules can wear out over time, so it’s important to test everything thoroughly before buying. We’ve written a full guide on what to check when buying a second-hand e-drum set (link that if you want).

A well-maintained used set that originally cost €2500 might now be available for under €1000 — which could be a great deal for an intermediate or advanced player.

Final Thoughts

There’s an electronic drum kit out there for every budget, but it pays to understand what you’re really getting. Stay away from toy sets, choose reputable brands, and always consider the long-term playability, sound quality, and reliability of your investment.

Whether you’re practicing late at night or preparing for your next gig — good luck choosing your kit, and enjoy every beat you play!