---
title: "Electronic Drum Kits Compared: Specs, Connections, Prices"
description: "Electronic drum kits compared on what the makers state: pads, kick and hi-hat, USB and Bluetooth MIDI, Bluetooth audio, and US prices. No rankings."
author: "Raul Rodrigues"
publishedAt: 2026-10-08
checkedOn: 2026-10-08
canonical: https://upbeat.studio/compare/electronic-drum-kits/
---

# Electronic drum kits compared: specs, connections and prices

An electronic kit is pads, a sound module and a rack, and the differences that matter sit in the details: whether the kick is a beaterless pedal controller or a pad you play with a real pedal, whether the hi-hat is a controller or a real stand, and how the module connects to a phone or a computer. This page lists 18 kits from Roland, Yamaha, Alesis, Simmons, EFNOTE, Millenium and Donner with what each maker states and the US price, and filters them by what you need without ranking them.

> This page lists what each maker states about its kits, how each module connects, and the US price. It does not rank kits or pick winners: filter by what you need and compare the facts.

Checked on 2026-10-08. 18 tools. Prices are US dollars as listed on the named store on the date given with each row; they change, so check the store before buying.

## What you need, and what decides the pick

- **First kit.** I'm buying a first electronic kit. What decides it: what is in the box (pedal, throne, headphones), how the hi-hat works, and the price.
- **Apartment.** I live with neighbors below or beside me. What decides it: mesh heads, and a kick that thumps the floor less: a pedal controller with no beater, or a quiet kick pad.
- **Apps and recording.** I want to connect to apps, a computer or record. What decides it: USB MIDI, Bluetooth MIDI, USB audio, and which apps the maker names.
- **Real feel.** I want it to feel closer to an acoustic kit. What decides it: a real hi-hat stand, larger mesh pads, cymbal choke and how the snare responds.
- **Small space.** My room is small. What decides it: the footprint the maker states and a compact rack.
- **For a child.** It's for a child. What decides it: size, a pedal controller, headphones in the box and a simple module.

## The table

| Tool | Maker | Kind | Kick | Price (US) | The sound module's name | Snare, tom and cymbal pads as the maker states them (mesh, rubber, sizes) | Hi-hat: pedal controller, or a real hi-hat stand with a pad | Cymbals can be choked by grabbing them | USB MIDI out of the module | Bluetooth MIDI (not just Bluetooth audio) | Bluetooth audio in, to play along with music from a phone | Audio over USB to a computer | Built-in practice or coach functions in the module | Number of preset kits as the maker states it | A kick pedal with a beater is in the box (pedal-controller kits show the controller in the Kick column) | Retail rating | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roland TD-02KV | Roland | entry kit | pedal controller | $669.99 | TD-02 | PDX-8 mesh-head snare pad (8 inch pad size); three PD-4 tom pads; three CY-5 cymbal pads with a 10-inch playing zone for hi-hat, crash and ride | Pedal controller: CY-5 hi-hat pad with the FD-1 hi-hat control pedal | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | 16 ready-to-play kits | no | 4.5 (2) Sweetwater | First kit, Apartment |
| Roland TD-07KV | Roland | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $999.99 | TD-07 | PDX-8 8-inch snare pad and three PDX-6A 6-inch tom pads, all with double-ply, tension-adjustable mesh heads; CY-8 12-inch crash and ride; CY-5 hi-hat | Pedal controller: 10-inch CY-5 hi-hat pad with a hi-hat control pedal that detects half-open playing | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 50 (25 preset kits and 25 user kits) | no | 4.5 (13) Sweetwater | Apartment, Apps and recording |
| Roland TD-07DMK | Roland | compact kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $699.99 | TD-07 | PDX-8 8-inch snare pad and three PDX-6A 6.5-inch tom pads, all with double-ply, tension-adjustable mesh heads; CY-5 10-inch crash and ride; CY-5 10-inch hi-hat | Pedal controller: CY-5 10-inch hi-hat pad with an integrated foot pedal that detects half-open playing | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 50 (25 preset kits and 25 user kits) | no | 4.5 (13) Sweetwater | Small space, Apartment, Apps and recording |
| Roland TD-17KVX2 | Roland | mid-range kit | kick pad for a real pedal | Not published | TD-17 | PDX-12 12-inch snare with double-mesh head; three PDX-8 mesh-head tom pads (Roland's kit page says 10-inch, its PDX-8 pad page gives an 8-inch pad size with a 10-inch rim); two 12-inch CY-12C-T crashes and one 14-inch CY-14R-T ride | Real hi-hat stand with a pad: 12-inch VH-10 V-Hi-Hat (hi-hat stand not included) | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 70 preset kits (TD-17 Version 2) | no | none | Real feel, Apps and recording |
| Roland TD316 V-Drums | Roland | mid-range kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $1,999.99 | V31 | PD-12P 12-inch snare with tension-adjustable mesh head, triple piezo sensors and positional sensing; PD-8H 8-inch (x2) and PD-10H 10-inch mesh-head tom pads; two dual-zone CY-12C-T crashes; CY-14R-T ride with bow, edge and bell | Real hi-hat stand with a pad: VH-10 (hi-hat stand not included) | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 200 kits (more than 70 presets) | no | 5.0 (7) Sweetwater | Real feel, Apps and recording |
| Yamaha DTX402K | Yamaha | entry kit | pedal controller | $449.99 | DTX402 drum module | Snare, two toms and floor tom are 7.5 inch pads; hi-hat and ride are 10 inch pads; the crash is a 10-inch pad with choke (Yamaha does not state the head material) | Pedal controller: HH40 hi-hat controller with a 10 inch hi-hat pad (fixed foot-close velocity) | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | 10 (all of which may be edited and overwritten) | no | 2.5 (6) Sweetwater | First kit, Small space |
| Yamaha DTX452K | Yamaha | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $599.99 | DTX402 | 7.5 inch TP70S 3-zone snare pad and three 7.5 inch tom pads, rubber; 10 inch hi-hat, 10 inch crash with choke and 10 inch ride pads; KP65 rubber kick pad | pedal controller: HH65 hi-hat controller with a 10 inch hi-hat pad | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | 10, all of which may be edited and overwritten | yes | 4.0 (1) Musician's Friend | First kit, Small space, Apps and recording |
| Yamaha DTX6K2-X | Yamaha | mid-range kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $1,279.99 | DTX-PRO | 8 inch XP80 TCS silicone 3-zone snare; three 7 inch TP70 rubber 1-zone toms; 7.5 inch KP90 rubber kick pad; 13 inch RHH135 2-zone hi-hat; two 13 inch PCY135 3-zone crashes and a 13 inch PCY135 3-zone ride | real hi-hat stand: RHH135 13 inch pad on an HS650A hi-hat stand | yes | yes | no | no | yes | yes | 40 preset kits and 200 user kits; Yamaha lists 70 preset kits with the Version 2 firmware update | no | 4.0 (7) Sweetwater | Real feel, Apps and recording |
| Alesis Nitro Max Kit | Alesis | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $449.99 | Nitro Max drum module | 10 inch dual-zone mesh snare; three 8 inch single-zone mesh toms; kick drum tower; 10 inch hi-hat, 10 inch crash with choke and 10 inch ride | pedal controller: 10 inch hi-hat pad with foot controller | yes | yes | no | yes | no | yes | 32 factory kits and 16 user kits | yes | 4.5 (49) Sweetwater | First kit, Apartment |
| Alesis Nitro Pro | Alesis | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $599 | Nitro Pro drum module | 10 inch dual-zone deep mesh snare; three 8 inch dual-zone mesh toms; 8 inch mesh kick tower that fits a double pedal; three 10 inch cymbal pads: hi-hat, ride with choke, crash with choke | pedal controller: 10 inch hi-hat pad with a hi-hat pedal | yes | yes | no | yes | no | yes | 36 factory kits and 16 user kits | yes | 4.0 (19) Sweetwater | First kit, Apartment |
| Alesis Surge Mesh Special Edition | Alesis | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | Not published | Surge drum module | 10 inch dual-zone mesh snare; three 8 inch dual-zone mesh toms; 8 inch mesh kick pad; 10 inch hi-hat, 10 inch crash with choke and 10 inch ride with choke | pedal controller: 10 inch hi-hat pad with hi-hat control pedal | yes | yes | no | no | no | yes | 40 kits: 24 preset and 16 user | yes | none | First kit, For a child, Apartment, Small space |
| Alesis Crimson III | Alesis | mid-range kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $999.99 | Crimson III drum module | 12 inch dual-zone mesh snare; two 8 inch and one 10 inch dual-zone mesh toms; 8 inch kick pad; 12 inch hi-hat, two 12 inch crashes with choke and a 14 inch triple-zone ride | pedal controller: 12 inch hi-hat with control pedal; the module also has a Real Hihat setting for a pad on a hi-hat stand with the Alesis Real Hihat sensor, not in the box | yes | yes | yes | yes | unknown | yes | 40 factory kits and 40 user kits | no | 4.5 (3) Musician's Friend | Apps and recording, Real feel |
| Alesis Strata Prime | Alesis | high-end kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $3,499 | Prime Drum Module, 10.1 in touchscreen, BFD sound engine | 14 in dual-zone mesh snare; 8, 10, 12 and 14 in dual-zone mesh toms; 20 in mesh kick drum; two 16 in crashes and an 18 in ride, all triple-zone ARC cymbals | 14 in triple-zone hi-hat with an Active Magnetic controller that mounts on a real hi-hat stand, stand sold separately | yes | yes | yes | yes | no | no | 75 kits | no | 4.6 (21) Thomann US | Real feel, Apps and recording |
| Simmons Titan 20 | Simmons | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $249.99 | Titan 20 sound module | 8 in dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 in mesh toms, 10 in hi-hat, crash and ride cymbal pads | variable hi-hat pedal controller with a 10 in hi-hat pad on an arm | unknown | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 10 preset and 1 user kit | yes | 4.0 (4) Musician's Friend | First kit, Apartment, Apps and recording, Small space |
| Simmons Titan 50 | Simmons | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | Not published | Titan 50 sound module | 10 in dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 in mesh toms, 10 in crash with choke, 10 in ride and 10 in hi-hat pads | variable hi-hat pedal controller with a 10 in hi-hat pad on an arm | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 25 preset and 10 user kits | yes | 4.5 (21) Musician's Friend | First kit, Apps and recording |
| EFNOTE 3 | EFNOTE | high-end kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $2,499 | EFD-3 | 12 in three-zone snare with side rim, two 10 in and one 12 in two-zone mesh toms, 12 in mesh kick pad, one or two 14 in crashes and a 16 in ride, three-zone 360 degree cymbals | 12 in two-piece Tru-Motion hi-hat cymbals for a real hi-hat stand, stand not included | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | 16 preset and 34 user kits | no | 4.8 (8) Thomann US | Real feel, Apps and recording |
| Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set | Millenium | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $559 | MPS-850 E-Drum Module | 10 in two-zone mesh snare, two 8 in and two 10 in two-zone mesh toms, 8 in mesh kick pad, two 12 in two-zone crashes, 12 in three-zone ride | 12 in hi-hat pad with a controller on the included hi-hat stand | yes | yes | no | no | no | no | 30 preset and 20 user kits | yes | 4.5 (2k) Thomann US | First kit, Real feel, Apartment |
| Donner DED-200 MAX Electronic Drum Set | Donner | entry kit | kick pad for a real pedal | $529.99 | DED-200 MAX sound module | 10 in dual-zone mesh snare, two 8 in and one 10 in mesh toms, 12 in crash and 12 in ride, 10 in hi-hat | hi-hat control pedal with a 10 in hi-hat pad | yes | yes | no | no | no | yes | 30 preset and 1 user kit | yes | 4.9 (75) Donner US store | First kit, Small space |

Legend: yes = the store listing or the maker says so; no = not there; unknown = neither says.

## One by one

### Roland TD-02KV

Roland. entry kit, pedal controller, hardware. In the box: TD-02 module, PDX-8 mesh snare pad, three PD-4 tom pads, three CY-5 cymbal pads (hi-hat, crash, ride), KT-1 beaterless kick trigger pedal, FD-1 hi-hat control pedal and a four-post stand; throne, sticks and headphones are not included.

A five-piece Roland kit with a mesh snare pad, three tom pads, three cymbal pads, a quiet beaterless kick pedal and a hi-hat control pedal, with 16 kits, five Coach practice modes, a metronome and USB audio and MIDI to a computer or phone. Know before choosing: the TD-02 module has no Bluetooth of its own, so wireless play-along needs Roland's optional BT-DUAL adaptor.

- Best for: First kit, Apartment
- Not for: Drummers who want Bluetooth out of the box, or a kick pad for practicing with a real bass drum pedal.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD-07KV has Bluetooth audio and MIDI built into its module and a KD-10 kick pad for a real pedal, while the TD-02KV needs the optional BT-DUAL adaptor for Bluetooth and uses the KT-1 beaterless kick pedal.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - TD-02KV kit: $669.99 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/roland-td-02kv-v-drums-kit/l99441000000000)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (2) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/
- Sources:
  - Kit contents including the beaterless kick pedal: "The kit also includes three tom pads, a quiet beaterless kick pedal, and three cymbal pads (hi-hat, crash, and ride)." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - Mesh-head snare pad: "Upgraded PDX-8 mesh-head snare pad with natural acoustic stick feel and cross-stick playability" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - Hi-hat is a pad with a control pedal: "Hi-Hat: CY-5 x 1; Crash: CY-5 x 1; Ride: CY-5 x 1; Kick Trigger Pedal: KT-1 x 1; Hi-Hat Control Pedal: FD-1 x 1" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - 16 kits: "TD-02 module with 16 ready-to-play kits" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - Bluetooth only through an optional adaptor: "Add wireless audio/MIDI streaming to the module with the optional BOSS Bluetooth® Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - No Bluetooth in the module itself: "Note that this unit does not feature Bluetooth functionality on its own." (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/TD-02_eng02_W.pdf)
  - USB audio and MIDI: "USB audio/MIDI connectivity for working with music production apps on computers and mobile devices" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - USB audio needs the vendor driver: "In order to use USB audio, switch to vendor mode and use the vendor driver." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - Coach functions: "Onboard Coach functions for guided practice and steady development of drumming skills" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - Cymbal choke described in the TD-02 manual: "Choking (pinching) the cymbal’s edge with the hand immediately after hitting the cymbal will mute or choke the sound" (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/TD-02_eng02_W.pdf)
  - Noise-reducing pedals: "Kick trigger and hi-hat controller pedals with noise-reducing design features for minimizing sound transfer to other rooms" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - What is not in the box: "Drum throne, drumsticks, and headphones are not included." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-02kv/)
  - PDX-8 pad size: "Pad size 8 inches" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/pdx-8/)
  - CY-5 playing zone: "The CY-5 cymbal pad features a 10-inch playing zone and swing movement for more drummer-friendly triggering." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/cy-5/)

### Roland TD-07KV

Roland. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: TD-07 module, PDX-8 mesh snare pad, three PDX-6A mesh tom pads, KD-10 kick pad, CY-5 hi-hat pad with a hi-hat control pedal, CY-8 crash and ride pads and a four-post rack stand; the kick pedal and throne are not included.

A compact Roland kit with mesh snare and tom pads, 12-inch crash and ride pads that choke, a KD-10 kick pad for a real pedal and a TD-07 module with Bluetooth audio and MIDI, USB audio and MIDI and five Coach modes. Know before choosing: the kick pedal and throne are not in the box, and the hi-hat is a pad with a control pedal, not a real hi-hat stand.

- Best for: Apartment, Apps and recording
- Not for: Drummers who need a hi-hat on a real hi-hat stand, or who want a kick pedal included in the box.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD316 adds a VH-10 hi-hat that mounts on a real hi-hat stand, a 12-inch snare pad with positional sensing and multichannel USB-C audio, which the TD-07KV does not have.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - TD-07KV kit: $999.99 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/roland-td-07kv-v-drums-electronic-drum-set/l79468000000000)
  - Note: Sweetwater marks the TD-07KV as no longer available (page kept for reference); Roland's US page does not mark it discontinued and Musician's Friend lists it new and in stock.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (13) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/
- Sources:
  - Kits and instruments: "TD-07 module with 25 preset kits, 25 user kits, and 143 instruments" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Mesh snare and tom pads with sizes: "One PDX-8 8-inch snare pad with independent head and rim zones for assigning different sounds and three PDX-6A 6-inch single-zone tom pads" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Double-ply mesh heads: "Roland’s original ultra-quiet, double-ply mesh heads feature across the snare and tom pads" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Choke on crash and ride: "CY-8 12-inch crash and ride cymbals with choke support" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Hi-hat is a pad with a foot pedal: "10-inch hi-hat cymbals and integrated foot pedal, with fine incremental control between open and closed positions" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Kick pad for a real pedal: "KD-10 kick pad offers realistic rebound and beater feel while minimizing noise and vibration" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - No kick pedal in the box: "Kick pedal and drum throne are not included." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI: "Integrated Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream sound from smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth devices and send MIDI data to music apps" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Bluetooth profiles: "Supported profile: A2DP (Audio), GATT (MIDI over Bluetooth Low Energy)" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - USB audio and MIDI: "USB for recording audio and MIDI data to computer music software" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)
  - Coach function: "Onboard coach function provides interactive tools to build timing skills and track progress" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07kv/)

### Roland TD-07DMK

Roland. compact kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: TD-07 module, PDX-8 mesh snare pad, three PDX-6A mesh tom pads, KD-2 kick pad that attaches to the stand, CY-5 hi-hat pad with a hi-hat control pedal, CY-5 crash and ride pads and a four-post rack stand; the kick pedal and throne are not included.

It has the same TD-07 module as the TD-07KV (Bluetooth audio and MIDI, USB audio and MIDI, five Coach modes) with mesh snare and tom pads, 10-inch cymbal pads that choke and a KD-2 kick pad that attaches to the stand, in the smallest footprint of the TD-07 series. Know before choosing: you still need your own kick pedal and throne, and the crash and ride are 10-inch CY-5 pads rather than the TD-07KV's 12-inch CY-8 pads.

- Best for: Small space, Apartment, Apps and recording
- Not for: Drummers who want 12-inch cymbal pads or a free-standing kick pad.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD-07KV uses the same TD-07 module with a free-standing KD-10 kick pad and 12-inch CY-8 crash and ride pads, where the TD-07DMK has a stand-mounted KD-2 kick pad and 10-inch CY-5 cymbal pads.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - TD-07DMK kit: $699.99 (regular $879.99) at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/roland-td-07dmk-v-drums-electronic-drum-kit/l87501000000000)
  - Note: Musician's Friend lists the kit as backordered (reserve now, charged when it ships; page data gives availability from 2026-10-14) and shows a price drop from the regular price.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (13) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/
- Sources:
  - Smallest footprint in the TD-07 series: "a stand-mounted kick pad helps create the TD-07 range’s smallest footprint" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Kick pad mounts on the stand: "KD-2 kick pad attaches directly to the drum stand" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Mesh snare and tom pads with sizes: "One PDX-8 8-inch snare pad with independent head and rim zones for assigning different sounds and three PDX-6A 6.5-inch single-zone tom pads" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Choke on crash and ride: "CY-5 10-inch crash and ride cymbals with choke support" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Hi-hat is a pad with a foot pedal: "CY-5 10-inch hi-hat cymbals and integrated foot pedal, with fine incremental control between open and closed positions" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - No kick pedal in the box: "Kick pedal and drum throne are not included." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI: "Integrated Bluetooth lets you wirelessly stream sound from smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth devices and send MIDI data to music apps" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Bluetooth profiles: "Supported profile: A2DP (Audio), GATT (MIDI over Bluetooth Low Energy)" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - USB audio and MIDI: "USB for recording audio and MIDI data to computer music software" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Coach function and kits: "TD-07 module with 25 preset kits, 25 user kits, and 143 instruments" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Coach mode: "Onboard Coach function provides interactive tools to build timing skills and track progress" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)
  - Kick pad damping: "specially designed damping in the kick pad cuts noise and vibration" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-07dmk/)

### Roland TD-17KVX2

Roland. mid-range kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: TD-17 module, PDX-12 mesh snare pad, three PDX-8 mesh tom pads, VH-10 hi-hat, two CY-12C-T crash pads, CY-14R-T ride pad, KD-10 kick pad and MDS-Compact stand; no kick pedal, hi-hat stand, throne or SD card.

It pairs the TD-17 module (Bluetooth audio and MIDI, USB audio and MIDI, Coach mode, sample import) with a 12-inch double-mesh snare, three mesh toms, two crashes, a ride and a VH-10 hi-hat that mounts on a real hi-hat stand. Know before choosing: Roland's US site lists the TD-17KVX2 as discontinued and Musician's Friend shows no new listing, so it is now a used or leftover-stock purchase, and the kick pedal, hi-hat stand and throne are not included.

- Best for: Real feel, Apps and recording
- Not for: Anyone who wants to buy the kit new from a current maker listing.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD316 is on sale new with the V31 module, USB-C multichannel audio and a snare pad with positional sensing, while Roland lists the TD-17KVX2 as discontinued.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08): Not published
  - Note: Discontinued: Roland's US page labels the TD-17KVX2 'Discontinued' and Musician's Friend search returns no new listing (only used TD-17 kits); Sweetwater's TD17KVX2 product URL redirects to its TD316 page. No current US dollar price for a new kit was found.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Maker: https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/
- Sources:
  - Discontinued on Roland's US site: "Discontinued" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Kit configuration: "Snare: PDX-12 x 1; Tom: PDX-8 x 3; Hi-Hat: VH-10 x 1; Crash: CY-12C-T x 2; Ride: CY-14R-T x 1" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - 12-inch double-mesh snare: "Develop stick control and correct playing techniques using the large 12-inch PDX-12 snare with double-mesh head" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Mesh tom pads: "Three 10-inch PDX-8 mesh-head tom pads with head and rim triggering" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Cymbal pads and sizes: "Two 12-inch CY-12C-T crash cymbals and one 14-inch CY-14R-T ride cymbal with thin profiles for natural feel and realistic movement" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Hi-hat on a real stand: "Five-piece electronic drum kit with two crashes, ride, and hi-hat that mounts on an acoustic stand" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Not in the box: "This package does not include a kick pedal, a hi-hat stand, a drum throne, and a SD card." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - 70 preset kits: "100 (Preset: 70 *5)" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17/)
  - Coach mode: "Improve your sense of time with Time Check and Quiet Count in Coach mode" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17kvx2/)
  - Bluetooth audio and MIDI profiles: "Supported profile: A2DP (Audio), GATT (MIDI over Bluetooth Low Energy)" (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/TD-17_eng01_W.pdf)
  - Bluetooth MIDI with music apps: "If a music app that supports Bluetooth MIDI (such as GarageBand) is installed on your mobile device" (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/TD-17_eng01_W.pdf)
  - USB audio and MIDI: "USB audio/MIDI support for computer music production" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td-17/)
  - Cymbal choke: "If you use your hand to choke (grasp) the edge sensor after striking the cymbal, the sound stops." (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/TD-17_eng01_W.pdf)
  - PDX-8 pad size: "Roland’s newest mesh V-Pad (PDX-8) offers an expanded 10-inch rim for more comfortable and quiet rim-shots" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/pdx-8/)

### Roland TD316 V-Drums

Roland. mid-range kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: V31 module, PD-12P snare pad, two PD-8H and one PD-10H tom pads, VH-10 hi-hat, two CY-12C-T crash pads, CY-14R-T ride pad, KD-10 kick pad, MDS-Compact 2 stand and a six-month Roland Cloud Ultimate membership; no kick pedal, snare stand, hi-hat stand or throne.

Roland's mid-level V-Drums 3 Series kit: a V31 module with Bluetooth audio and MIDI, USB-C multichannel audio and MIDI, sample import and coach tools, a 12-inch mesh snare with positional sensing, mesh toms, two crashes, a ride that chokes and a VH-10 hi-hat for a real hi-hat stand. Know before choosing: Roland lists the kick pedal, snare stand, hi-hat stand and throne as not included.

- Best for: Real feel, Apps and recording
- Not for: Someone setting up a first kit on a tight budget, or a room with no space for a five-piece rack plus a separate hi-hat stand.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD-02KV and the Yamaha DTX402K come with a kick pedal controller and a hi-hat control pedal in the box, while the TD316 needs a kick pedal and a hi-hat stand bought separately.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - TD316 kit: $1,999.99 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/roland-td316-v-drums-kit/m22863000000000)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 5.0 (7) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/
- Sources:
  - Mid-level V-Drums 3 Series kit: "Mid-level V-Drums 3 Series kit with performance-grade features and a compact footprint." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Kit configuration: "Sound Module: V31; Snare: PD-12P; Tom 1: PD-8H; Tom 2: PD-8H; Tom 3: PD-10H; Hi-Hat: VH-10; Crash 1: CY-12C-T; Crash 2: CY-12C-T" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Snare with positional sensing: "PD-12P snare with triple piezo sensors and positional sensing" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Hi-hat on a real stand: "VH-10 hi-hat mounts on a traditional hi-hat stand (not included) for natural open/closed control" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Ride choke: "CY-14R-T ride cymbal pad with natural response, bow/edge/bell triggering, and choke support" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Not in the box: "Kick pedal, snare stand, hi-hat stand, and drum throne are not included." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Bluetooth audio: "Bluetooth® audio for streaming music and backing tracks from a mobile device" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - Bluetooth audio and MIDI on the V31: "Bluetooth audio/MIDI is also available, allowing you to jam with songs on your phone, play along with video lessons, and more." (https://www.roland.com/us/products/v31/)
  - Bluetooth MIDI setup in the manual: "Here’s how to make settings for transmitting and receiving MIDI data between the V31 and the mobile device." (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/V31_Reference_eng03_W.pdf)
  - USB-C audio and MIDI: "USB-C multi-channel audio and MIDI connectivity for seamless integration with DAWs and software-based instruments" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - USB audio channels: "Recording: 30 channels" (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/V31_Reference_eng03_W.pdf)
  - Kit count: "Drum kits 200 (presets: more than 70)" (https://static.roland.com/assets/media/pdf/V31_Reference_eng03_W.pdf)
  - Coach mode: "Integrated coach mode with Phrase Trainer, Stroke Monitor, and other advanced tools" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)
  - PD-12P size and mesh head: "Tension-adjustable mesh head lets you dial in the rebound to match your playing style" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/pd-12p/)
  - PD-8H size and mesh head: "Roland 8-inch V-Pad with a tension-adjustable mesh head for customizable stick response" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/pd-8h/)
  - Companion app: "Companion V31 Editor software (macOS/Windows) and V-Drums Play app (iOS/Android)" (https://www.roland.com/us/products/td316/)

### Yamaha DTX402K

Yamaha. entry kit, pedal controller, hardware. In the box: Drum module, snare and three tom pads, hi-hat, ride and crash cymbal pads, HH40 hi-hat controller, KU100 beaterless kick unit, rack, nine-channel snake cable and drum key, with an AC adaptor that Yamaha says may not be included in every area; no throne.

A Yamaha kit for beginners with 7.5 inch drum pads, 10 inch cymbal pads (the crash chokes), a KU100 beaterless kick unit and HH40 hi-hat controller, 10 kits and 10 training functions, plus USB audio and MIDI to a computer and the free DTX402 Touch app over a USB cable. Know before choosing: the module has no Bluetooth, so phones and tablets connect only by cable, and the HH40 hi-hat pedal sends a fixed velocity.

- Best for: First kit, Small space
- Not for: Drummers who want Bluetooth play-along or a kick pad to play with a real bass drum pedal.
- Someone does it better: The Roland TD-07KV has Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI built into its module, while the DTX402K connects to a phone or computer only by cable (USB, or the AUX IN jack for audio).
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - DTX402K kit: $449.99 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/yamaha-dtx402k-electronic-drum-set/l25717000000000)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (2) Musician's Friend; 2.5 (6) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/index.html
- Sources:
  - Pad sizes and crash choke: "10-inch pad with Choke ability" (https://ca.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - 7.5 inch drum pads: "7.5 inch pad" (https://ca.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - Kick is the KU100 kick unit: "KU100 kick unit" (https://ca.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - KU100 reduces kick noise: "KU100 kick unit reduces noise when playing the bass drum." (https://europe.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/explore/dtx402-series-products.html)
  - Retailer lists the KU100 as a beaterless kick pedal: "DTX402K includes the KU100 beaterless kick pedal" (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/yamaha-dtx402k-electronic-drum-set/l25717000000000)
  - Package contents: "HH40 Hi-hat controller KU100 Kick unit Nine-channel snake cable" (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/1/1181111/VHY8310_DTX402K_432K_452K_owners_manual_En_C0.pdf)
  - HH40 sends a fixed velocity: "the velocity is fixed regardless of how strongly or softly the hi-hat controller’s pedal is depressed" (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/1/1181111/VHY8310_DTX402K_432K_452K_owners_manual_En_C0.pdf)
  - Choke works on the cymbal sensor area: "The Choke function only works when you grasp in the sensor area." (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/1/1181111/VHY8310_DTX402K_432K_452K_owners_manual_En_C0.pdf)
  - 10 kits: "10 (all of which may be edited and overwritten)" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/spec.html)
  - Connectors list USB and aux in, no Bluetooth: "USB TO HOST (type B), AUX IN (mini stereo audio), PHONES/OUTPUT (standard stereo audio), DC IN" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/spec.html)
  - USB audio and MIDI: "SEND USB AUDIO/MIDI TO YOUR COMPUTER" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/feature.html)
  - USB audio to a computer: "Connect the module to your computer via USB, and create audio data from sounds produced in the DTX." (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/feature.html)
  - Training functions: "The DTX comes with 10 built-in training functions." (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/feature.html)
  - App connects by USB cable: "you will need to connect your smart device to the DTX module using a USB cable" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/apps.html)
  - DTX402 Touch app listing: "DTX402 Touch is a dedicated iOS app for Yamaha DTX402 series electronic drums." (https://apps.apple.com/us/app/dtx402-touch/id1362988541)

### Yamaha DTX452K

Yamaha. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the DTX402 module, a TP70S 3-zone snare pad, three tom pads, hi-hat, crash and ride cymbal pads, a KP65 kick pad with an FP6110A foot pedal, an HH65 hi-hat controller, the rack and a nine-channel snake cable.

A rubber pad kit with a KP65 kick pad played with the included Yamaha foot pedal, an HH65 hi-hat controller, 10 training functions in the module and the free DTX402 Touch app, plus audio and MIDI over USB to a computer. The snare and toms are rubber, not mesh, and the module has no Bluetooth, so music from a phone comes in through the wired aux input or a USB cable.

- Best for: First kit, Small space, Apps and recording
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants mesh heads or wireless play-along from a phone.
- Someone does it better: The Alesis Nitro Max has mesh snare and tom heads and Bluetooth audio streaming, which the DTX452K does not have.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - DTX452K: $599.99 at Sweetwater (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DTX452K--yamaha-dtx452k-electronic-drum-set)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (1) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/index.html
- Sources:
  - The kit includes the HH65 hi-hat controller and a KP65 kick tower with pedal: "HH65 adjustable hi-hat controller, and a KP65 kick tower with pedal" (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DTX452K--yamaha-dtx452k-electronic-drum-set)
  - Yamaha lists the FP6110A foot pedal and a twin-pedal compatible KP65 kick pad for the DTX452K: "KP65 (Twin pedal compatible)" (https://uk.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - Snare pad size and zones: "TP70S (7.5 inch pad with 3-zones)" (https://uk.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - Crash cymbal pad chokes: "10-inch pad with Choke ability" (https://uk.yamaha.com/en/musical-instruments/drums/products/electronic-drum-kits/dtx402-series/spec.html)
  - Pads are rubber: "5-piece Electronic Drum Set with Rubber Pads" (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DTX452K--yamaha-dtx452k-electronic-drum-set)
  - HH65 hi-hat controller gives open, closed, half open and foot splash: "Hi-hat controller that can produce a full range of effects such as full open, full closed, half open and foot splash" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/accessories.html)
  - Audio over USB to a computer: "Connect the module to your computer via USB, and create audio data from sounds produced in the DTX." (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/feature.html)
  - USB carries audio or MIDI to a computer or iPhone/iPad: "using a USB cable lets you send and receive audio or MIDI data" (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/1/1181111/VHY8310_DTX402K_432K_452K_owners_manual_En_C0.pdf)
  - Module connectors: USB, wired aux in, phones; no Bluetooth is listed: "USB TO HOST (type B), AUX IN (mini stereo audio), PHONES/OUTPUT (standard stereo audio), DC IN" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/spec.html)
  - Built-in training functions: "The DTX comes with 10 built-in training functions." (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/feature.html)
  - Preset kit count: "10 (all of which may be edited and overwritten)" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx402_series/spec.html)

### Yamaha DTX6K2-X

Yamaha. mid-range kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the DTX-PRO module, an XP80 snare pad, three TP70 tom pads, a KP90 kick pad, an RHH135 hi-hat pad on an HS650A hi-hat stand, three PCY135 cymbal pads and the RS6 rack; the kick pedal is sold separately.

A kit with an RHH135 hi-hat pad on an HS650A hi-hat stand, 13 inch three-zone crash and ride pads that choke when grabbed, positional sensing on the ride, 10 training types in the DTX-PRO module, and USB audio and MIDI for recording. The kick pedal is not in the box, the three toms are single-zone rubber pads with only the snare on Yamaha's TCS silicone head, and the module has no Bluetooth.

- Best for: Real feel, Apps and recording
- Not for: Not for a buyer who wants a kick pedal in the box or mesh heads on every drum.
- Someone does it better: The Alesis Crimson III module has Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI, which the DTX-PRO module does not list among its connections.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - DTX6K2-X: $1,279.99 at Sweetwater (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DTX6K2--yamaha-dtx6k2-by-electronic-drum-set)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (7) Sweetwater
- Maker: https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/index.html
- Sources:
  - The kit includes a hi-hat stand: "Includes hi-hat stand and snare clamp that utilizes Yamaha system hardware" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Snare pad: "XP80 (8-inch) TCS head 3-zone pad" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Tom pads: "TP70 (7-inch) Rubber head 1-zone pad" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Kick pad: "KP90 (7.5-inch) Rubber head with multi-layer cushion" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Hi-hat pad: "RHH135 (13-inch) 2-zone pad" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Cymbal pads choke when grabbed: "the cymbal pads can be choked or muted by grabbing the edge" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/index.html)
  - Ride has positional sensing: "The ride cymbal also offers positional sensing." (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/index.html)
  - USB carries MIDI and audio: "The USB terminal can send and receive MIDI, and also sends and receives audio data when connected directly to a computer or smart device" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/index.html)
  - Module connectors list USB and MIDI OUT; no Bluetooth is listed: "USB TO DEVICE, USB TO HOST" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/specs.html)
  - Kick pedal is sold separately: "For details on assembling the foot pedal (sold separately)" (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/2/1323472/dtx6k3x_dtx6k2x_en_am_a0.pdf)
  - Retailer confirms no bass drum pedal: "Bass drum pedal not included." (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/DTX6K2--yamaha-dtx6k2-by-electronic-drum-set)
  - Kit count on the spec sheet: "Preset: 40 Kits, User: 200 Kits" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/specs.html)
  - Kit count with the Version 2 firmware, stated in the DTX6K5-M entry on the DTX6 products page, which uses the same DTX-PRO module: "70 preset kits (with Version 2 Firmware update), 200 user kits and over 700 voices" (https://usa.yamaha.com/products/musical_instruments/drums/el_drums/drum_kits/dtx6_series/products.html)
  - Built-in training: "There are ten training types available on the DTX-PRO." (https://usa.yamaha.com/files/download/other_assets/6/1353206/DTX-PRO_owners_manual_En_C0.pdf)

### Alesis Nitro Max Kit

Alesis. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the Nitro Max module, a 10 inch dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 inch mesh toms, a kick drum tower with kick pedal, a 10 inch hi-hat with foot controller, a 10 inch crash with choke, a 10 inch ride, the rack, cables, sticks, drum key and power supply, plus a 90-day Drumeo subscription and BFD Player.

An eight-piece mesh kit with a kick pedal and hi-hat controller in the box, Bluetooth audio to play along with music from a phone, and a Learning Mode that scores your accuracy on beats, rhythms and patterns. Its USB port sends MIDI only, not audio, and its Bluetooth profile is A2DP audio, so recording the module's sound needs the line outputs.

- Best for: First kit, Apartment
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants a real hi-hat stand or audio over USB to a computer.
- Someone does it better: The Yamaha DTX452K sends audio over USB to a computer, which the Nitro Max does not; its USB port carries MIDI only.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - Nitro Max Kit (regular price): $449.99 at Sweetwater (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/NitroMaxKit--alesis-nitro-max-mesh-electronic-drum-set)
  - Note: On 2026-10-08 Sweetwater had it on sale until 2026-10-09; the regular price is shown.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (49) Sweetwater; 4.5 (14) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/
- Sources:
  - Kick tower and kick pedal are included: "Kick drum tower with kick drum pedal" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - Cymbals and hi-hat controller: "10” crash cymbal with choke, 10” ride, and 10” hi-hat with foot controller" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - Mesh snare: "Large 10” dual-zone mesh snare" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - Mesh toms: "(3) 8” mesh single zone tom pads" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - Bluetooth audio for play-along: "Bluetooth audio streaming for wireless music play along" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - Kit count: "32 ready to play BFD, classic and modern kits + 16 User kits" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-max-kit/)
  - USB sends MIDI only: "Note: Only MIDI information is sent over the USB connection, not audio." (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2102/documents/Nitro%20Max%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.1.pdf)
  - Bluetooth profile is A2DP (audio), no MIDI profile listed: "Bluetooth Profile: A2DP" (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2102/documents/Nitro%20Max%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.1.pdf)
  - Learning Mode scores your playing: "To play and be scored, press Start/Stop." (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2102/documents/Nitro%20Max%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.1.pdf)
  - Retailer lists kick and hi-hat pedals: "Kick and hi-hat controller foot pedals" (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/NitroMaxKit--alesis-nitro-max-mesh-electronic-drum-set)

### Alesis Nitro Pro

Alesis. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the Nitro Pro module, a 10 inch dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 inch dual-zone mesh toms, an 8 inch mesh kick tower, three 10 inch cymbal pads, a steel rack, cables, sticks, drum key and power supply; Sweetwater also lists a chain-drive kick pedal and a hi-hat pedal.

A mesh kit with dual-zone toms, an 8 inch kick tower that takes a double pedal, chokeable crash and ride, Bluetooth audio for playing along with a phone, and a Learning Mode that scores your accuracy. Its USB port sends MIDI only, not audio, and the hi-hat is a 10 inch pad worked by a pedal controller, not a hi-hat stand.

- Best for: First kit, Apartment
- Not for: Not for a drummer who needs Bluetooth MIDI or audio over USB for recording.
- Someone does it better: The Alesis Crimson III module offers Bluetooth MIDI, while the Nitro Pro's Bluetooth profile is A2DP audio only.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - Nitro Pro: $599 (regular $699) at Sweetwater (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/NitroProKit--alesis-nitro-pro-electronic-drum-kit)
  - Note: Sweetwater shows a price drop from $699.00; Musician's Friend lists $699.00 today.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (19) Sweetwater; 5.0 (2) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/
- Sources:
  - Mesh snare: "PRO 10” dual-zone deep mesh snare" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - Mesh toms: "PRO 8” mesh dual zone tom pads (3)" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - Cymbals, with choke on ride and crash: "Pro 10” cymbals (3): hi-hat, ride with choke, crash with choke" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - Kick tower fits a double pedal: "PRO 8” mesh drum tower supports double kick" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - Bluetooth audio for play-along: "Bluetooth® audio and aux input to play along with your own songs" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - Kit count: "36 Factory Kits / 16 User Kits" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/nitro-pro/)
  - USB sends MIDI only: "Note: Only MIDI information is sent over the USB connection, not audio." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/DoC/nitro/nitrop/Nitro%20Pro%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - Bluetooth profile is A2DP (audio), no MIDI profile listed: "Bluetooth Profile: A2DP" (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/DoC/nitro/nitrop/Nitro%20Pro%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - Learning Mode scores your playing: "To play and be scored, press Start/Stop." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/DoC/nitro/nitrop/Nitro%20Pro%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - Retailer lists a kick pedal and hi-hat pedal: "Chain-drive kick pedal and a hi-hat pedal" (https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/NitroProKit--alesis-nitro-pro-electronic-drum-kit)

### Alesis Surge Mesh Special Edition

Alesis. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the Surge module, a 10 inch dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 inch dual-zone mesh toms, an 8 inch mesh kick pad tower, a kick pedal, a hi-hat pedal, 10 inch hi-hat, crash and ride pads, a 4-post rack, cable snake, sticks, drum key and power supply.

Alesis aims it at young people and beginners: mesh pads, a kick pedal and hi-hat pedal in the box, a rack that folds for storage, 60 play-along tracks and a Learning Mode that scores your accuracy. No US store checked on 2026-10-08 sold it new (Sweetwater and Musician's Friend do not list it, Drum Center NH shows it sold out), and the module has no Bluetooth and sends only MIDI over USB.

- Best for: First kit, For a child, Apartment, Small space
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants wireless play-along or audio recording over USB.
- Someone does it better: The Alesis Nitro Max streams play-along music over Bluetooth audio, which the Surge module does not offer.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08): Not published
  - Note: No new US listing found on 2026-10-08: Sweetwater's search returns only the Surge add-on tom, Musician's Friend's search returns only a used Surge Mesh listing, Drum Center NH lists the kit as sold out, Walmart returns no results, and zZounds and IDJNow pages could not be opened (403); no Alesis US store page with a price was found, so there is no US dollar price from an allowed source.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Maker: https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/
- Sources:
  - Pad set: "Five-piece pad set with 8” dual-zone toms, 10” snare drum and 8” kick drum" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Cymbal set with choke on crash and ride: "Three-piece 10” cymbal set with hi-hat, crash w/choke, and ride w/choke" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Kick pedal and hardware included: "Kick drum pedal, drum key, drumsticks, connection cables, mounting hardware and power supply included" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Kit count: "Surge Drum Module with 40 kits (24 Preset + 16 User) and 385 sounds" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Maker's intended buyer: "All-In-One Drum Solution for Young People and Beginners" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Wired aux input for play-along: "CD/MP3 aux input to play along with your phone or other portable devices" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - Rack folds for storage: "You can even fold the rack up for easy storage" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - USB sends MIDI only: "Note: Only MIDI information is sent over the USB connection, not audio." (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2087/downloads/Surge%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - Module connectors end with MIDI and USB; no Bluetooth is listed: "(1) USB Type-B port" (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2087/downloads/Surge%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - Learning Mode scores your playing: "To play and be scored, press Start/Stop." (https://www.alesis.com/rscdn/2087/downloads/Surge%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.2.pdf)
  - The included kick pedal has a beater: "single-beater Alesis kick pedal" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/surge-mesh-special-edition/)
  - A US drum shop that carried the kit shows it sold out: "Sold out" (https://drumcenternh.com/products/alesis-surge-mesh-special-edition-drum-kit-surgesekitxus)

### Alesis Crimson III

Alesis. mid-range kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: In the box: the Crimson III module, an 8 inch kick pad, a 12 inch dual-zone snare on its own stand, two 8 inch and one 10 inch dual-zone toms, a 12 inch hi-hat with control pedal, two 12 inch crashes with choke, a 14 inch triple-zone ride, a 4-post steel rack, cables and power supply; the kick pedal is sold separately.

Alesis sells no kit named Crimson III SE, so this row covers the Crimson III: a nine-piece mesh kit with a 14 inch three-zone ride, Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI, an SD card slot for your own samples and a Coach mode that scores your accuracy. The kick pedal is sold separately, and the included hi-hat is a pad worked by a control pedal rather than a hi-hat stand.

- Best for: Apps and recording, Real feel
- Not for: Not for a buyer who wants a kick pedal or a real hi-hat stand in the box.
- Someone does it better: The Yamaha DTX6K2-X comes with an HS650A hi-hat stand for its real hi-hat pad, while the Crimson III's included hi-hat works with a control pedal.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - Crimson III: $999.99 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/alesis-crimson-iii-electronic-drum-kit-with-mesh-heads/m12277000000000)
  - Note: Sweetwater's search did not list the Crimson III on 2026-10-08.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (3) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/
- Sources:
  - Maker's name for the kit is Crimson III, a nine-piece mesh kit: "Nine-Piece Electronic Drum Kit with Mesh Heads" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - Drum pads: "This drum kit is equipped with an 8” kick, a 12” dual-zone snare, two 8” dual-zone rack toms, and a 10” dual-zone floor tom" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - Cymbals, hi-hat control pedal and choke: "along with a 12” hi-hat with control pedal, two 12” crashes with choke, and a 14” triple-zone ride" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - Kit count: "80 kits (40 factory + 40 user)" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - SD card slot for your own samples: "The Crimson III drum module also features an SD card input." (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth audio: "The Bluetooth Setup menu has settings to transmit Bluetooth MIDI or Bluetooth audio signals" (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/crimsonIII/CRIMSON%20III%20%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.0.pdf)
  - Bluetooth audio in, to stream tracks for play-along: "Stream tracks via Bluetooth®" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/crimson-III/)
  - USB carries MIDI: "Connect a USB-A cable from here to a computer to transmit or receive MIDI data." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/crimsonIII/CRIMSON%20III%20%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.0.pdf)
  - Coach mode: "Coach mode is a practice mode specially designed for beginners to help improve playing accuracy, speed, stamina, and other skills." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/crimsonIII/CRIMSON%20III%20%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.0.pdf)
  - The included hi-hat setup is a control pedal: "Hihat pedal: This is the included hihat setup." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/alesis/crimsonIII/CRIMSON%20III%20%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.0.pdf)
  - Kick pedal not included: "A kick pedal is sold separately." (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/alesis-crimson-iii-electronic-drum-kit-with-mesh-heads/m12277000000000)

### Alesis Strata Prime

Alesis. high-end kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The Prime Drum Module with a 10.1 in touchscreen, six mesh drums including a 20 in kick drum, three cymbals and a 14 in hi-hat, a four-post steel rack, three cymbal boom arms and a snare stand; the kick pedal and hi-hat stand are not included.

A ten-piece all-mesh kit with a 20 in kick drum, a 14 in snare, triple-zone cymbals you can grab to choke and a magnetic hi-hat controller that sits on your own hi-hat stand, run from a touchscreen module with 75 kits, Bluetooth MIDI and Bluetooth audio in. Budget for a kick pedal and hi-hat stand, which Alesis sells separately, and know that the module's USB port carries MIDI and files, not audio.

- Best for: Real feel, Apps and recording
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants to record audio from the module over USB or who has no kick pedal and hi-hat stand yet.
- Someone does it better: The EFNOTE 3 sends audio over USB, eight channels out and two in, while the Strata Prime's USB port carries MIDI and files only.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - Strata Prime kit: $3,499 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/alesis-strata-prime-electronic-drum-kit/m08825000000000)
  - Note: Sweetwater refused automated reads (403). Thomann US lists the same kit at $2,666 on 2026-10-08.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (1) Musician's Friend; 4.6 (21) Thomann US
- Maker: https://www.alesisdrums.com/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/
- Sources:
  - Bluetooth MIDI and USB MIDI on the module: "Module MIDI I/O: USB MIDI, 5-pin In/ Out, Bluetooth MIDI" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/page-data/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/page-data.json)
  - Kick pedal and hi-hat stand are not in the box: "PLEASE NOTE: Hi-hat stand and kick pedal sold separately" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/page-data/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/page-data.json)
  - Number of preset kits: "Number of Drum Kits: 75" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/page-data/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/page-data.json)
  - Included hardware: "4-post Steel Rack, 3x Cymbal Boom Arms, Snare Stand" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/page-data/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/page-data.json)
  - Hi-hat uses a stand-mounted magnetic controller: "14” active hi-hat cymbal with magnetic stand-mounted controller" (https://www.alesisdrums.com/page-data/electronic-drum-kits/strata-prime/page-data.json)
  - Bluetooth pairs with MIDI or audio devices: "enabling you to connect to a supported MIDI or audio device" (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/Software/Drum/152/PRIME%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.2.pdf)
  - Jam mode can play audio from a Bluetooth device: "record yourself playing or recording from the Aux Inputs , a connected Bluetooth audio device" (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/Software/Drum/152/PRIME%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.2.pdf)
  - The USB-B port is for MIDI, firmware and file transfer: "Connect to a computer’s USB port to send/receive MIDI data, update firmware, or transfer files." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/Software/Drum/152/PRIME%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.2.pdf)
  - Cymbals choke when grabbed: "Sets the minimum time you must grab and hold the edge of a cymbal in order for it to register a cymbal choke/mute." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/Software/Drum/152/PRIME%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.2.pdf)
  - Jam mode is for playing along and recording, with no timing or accuracy check: "Use this mode to practice your drumming and play along to your favorite music, or record your performance." (https://cdn.inmusicbrands.com/Software/Drum/152/PRIME%20Drum%20Module%20-%20User%20Guide%20-%20v1.5.2.pdf)

### Simmons Titan 20

Simmons. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The Titan 20 module with a tablet shelf, an 8 in dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 in mesh toms, 10 in hi-hat, crash and ride pads, a kick pedal with a beater and its own built-in kick pad, a hi-hat pedal controller, a four-post hex rack and a pair of drumsticks.

A five-piece kit with an 8 in mesh snare, three 8 in mesh toms and a Practice Mode that scores your timing, plus Bluetooth audio for playing along from a phone and USB audio and MIDI for recording. The kick is a bass drum pedal with a beater and its own built-in pad, the cymbals are 10 in pads, and Bluetooth carries either audio or MIDI at one time, not both.

- Best for: First kit, Apartment, Apps and recording, Small space
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants drum pads larger than 8 in or cymbal pads larger than 10 in.
- Someone does it better: The Millenium MPS-850 has a 10 in snare, an 8 in kick pad with its pedal in the box and 12 in cymbal pads, where the Titan 20 has an 8 in snare, a pedal with a built-in pad and 10 in cymbal pads.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - Titan 20 kit: $249.99 (regular $349.99) at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/simmons-titan-20-electronic-drum-kit-with-mesh-pads-and-bluetooth/l95521000000000)
  - Note: Sweetwater does not carry Simmons and refused automated reads (403). Musician's Friend flags the listing as clearance.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.0 (4) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/
- Sources:
  - Bluetooth audio and MIDI: "Bluetooth Audio and MIDI" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - USB audio interface with MIDI: "Functions as a 2×2 audio interface with MIDI I/O" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Practice Mode scores timing: "Practice Mode measures timing accuracy with several songs, exercises, and scoring" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Preset and user kits: "10 Preset and 1 User Drum Kit" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Kick pedal in the box: "Kick pedal with variable dynamics" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Hi-hat is a pedal controller: "Variable Hi-hat controller with sounds from closed to mid and open" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Pad sizes: "Dual-zone 8″ mesh snare pad with rimshot detection" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-20/)
  - Bluetooth works for one of audio or MIDI at a time: "you can only use Bluetooth Audio or Bluetooth MIDI" (https://simmonsdrums.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Simmons-Titan-20-electronic-drum-kit-owners-manual.pdf)
  - Kick is a bass drum pedal with its own pad: "Bass Drum Pad & Pedal" (https://simmonsdrums.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Simmons-Titan-20-electronic-drum-kit-owners-manual.pdf)
  - Cymbal trigger inputs are single zone: "1 x Crash, Single Zone" (https://simmonsdrums.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Simmons-Titan-20-electronic-drum-kit-owners-manual.pdf)

### Simmons Titan 50

Simmons. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The Titan 50 module with a tablet shelf, a 10 in dual-zone mesh snare, three 8 in mesh toms, a 10 in crash with choke, 10 in ride and hi-hat pads, a hi-hat pedal controller, a 6 in kick pad with an adjustable kick pedal, a steel rack and a pair of drumsticks.

Unavailable new: Musician's Friend lists the standard Titan 50 as unavailable and discontinued and sells the Titan 50 B-EX instead, which adds a fourth tom and a second crash. As Simmons specifies it, the Titan 50 is a five-piece mesh kit with a 10 in snare, a 6 in kick pad that takes single or double pedals with a pedal in the box, a crash you can choke, Bluetooth audio and MIDI, a 2x2 USB audio interface and a Practice Mode that scores your timing.

- Best for: First kit, Apps and recording
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants to buy this kit new today, since Musician's Friend lists it as unavailable, or who wants cymbal pads larger than 10 in or a hi-hat pad on a real hi-hat stand.
- Someone does it better: The Millenium MPS-850 puts a 12 in hi-hat pad on a real hi-hat stand and has 12 in cymbals, where the Titan 50 uses a hi-hat pedal controller and 10 in cymbal pads.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08): Not published
  - Note: No new US price for the standard Titan 50: Musician's Friend lists it as unavailable and discontinued, and Sweetwater does not carry Simmons (403 to automated reads). Musician's Friend sells the expanded Titan 50 B-EX, with four toms and two crashes, at $349.99 (list $499.99); that is a different configuration and is not priced as this row.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (21) Musician's Friend
- Maker: https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/
- Sources:
  - Crash cymbal chokes: "10” crash cymbal with choke" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Kick pad for a real pedal, pedal included: "Kick pedal with 6” kick pad, optimized for single and double-kick pedals" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Kick pedal in the box: "Included adjustable kick drum pedal" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Preset and user kits: "25 Preset and 10 User Drum Kits" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - USB audio interface with MIDI: "Functions as a 2×2 audio interface with MIDI I/O" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Practice tool measures timing: "A new built-in Practice tool measures your timing accuracy to help you improve." (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Hi-hat is a pedal controller: "10” Variable Hi-hat controller with sounds from closed to mid and open" (https://simmonsdrums.net/dp/titan-50/)
  - Bluetooth audio and MIDI: "The Titan 50 includes Bluetooth wireless audio and MIDI for connection to apps like the Simmons App for iOS." (https://simmonsdrums.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/Simmons-Titan-50-Manual.pdf)
  - Standard Titan 50 is unavailable at Musician's Friend: "We're sorry-this item is unavailable." (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/simmons-titan-50-electronic-drum-kit-with-mesh-pads-and-bluetooth)

### EFNOTE 3

EFNOTE. high-end kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The EFD-3 module, a 12 in kick pad, a 12 in snare with side rim, two 10 in and one 12 in toms, a 12 in two-piece hi-hat, one 14 in crash on Style-A or two on Style-B, a 16 in ride, lambda tripod stands, a snare stand and cables; the kick pedal, hi-hat stand and throne are sold separately.

An acoustic-look kit with FRP shells, a 12 in kick pad for your own pedal, a 12 in snare with a side rim, three-zone cymbals with a 360 degree choke area and a two-piece 12 in hi-hat for a real stand, run by the EFD-3 module with 8-channel USB audio, Bluetooth audio and MIDI, and a Stroke Analyzer that scores accuracy. It comes as Style-A with one crash or Style-B with two, and the kick pedal, hi-hat stand and throne are sold separately.

- Best for: Real feel, Apps and recording
- Not for: Not for a drummer who does not yet own a kick pedal and hi-hat stand, since neither is included.
- Someone does it better: The Alesis Strata Prime has a 14 in snare, toms up to 14 in and a 20 in kick drum, where the EFNOTE 3's snare and kick pad are 12 in.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - EFNOTE 3B, the Style-B configuration with two crashes: $2,499 at Musician's Friend (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/efnote-3b-acoustic-designed-electronic-drum-set/m18465000001000)
  - Note: Musician's Friend sells only the Style-B kit, listed as EFNOTE 3B and backordered until 2026-10-15; no Style-A price there. Sweetwater refused automated reads (403). Thomann US lists Style-A at $2,029 and Style-B at $2,169 on 2026-10-08.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.8 (8) Thomann US; 5.0 (1) Thomann US
- Maker: https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html
- Sources:
  - Bluetooth audio in for playing along: "Bluetooth audio-in provides you to play along with Spotify™ / YouTube™ with your smartphone" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Bluetooth MIDI: "Bluetooth MIDI In/Out" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - USB audio, eight out and two in: "Audio: 8-ch Out (48kHz/24bit) / 2-ch In (48kHz/16bit), Mac/Windows ASIO" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - USB MIDI: "USB MIDI in/out with individual MIDI channels" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Cymbals can be choked: "Multi-sensored 360° play/choke area" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Training feature scores accuracy: ""Accuracy Score" estimates your strike accuracy" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Preset kits: "Preset Drum Kits: 16 (Editable)" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Kick pedal, hi-hat stand and throne not included: "Kick pedal, hi-hat stand and drum throne are sold separately." (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Two configurations: "Versatile setup with 2x crash cymbal" (https://ef-note.com/products/drums/EFNOTE3A/efnote3.html)
  - Musician's Friend lists the EFNOTE 3B without pedal, hi-hat stand or throne: "Note: Bass drum pedal, hi-hat stand and drum throne sold separately." (https://www.musiciansfriend.com/drums-percussion/efnote-3b-acoustic-designed-electronic-drum-set/m18465000001000)

### Millenium MPS-850 E-Drum Set

Millenium. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The MPS-850 module, a 10 in mesh snare, two 8 in and two 10 in mesh toms, an 8 in mesh kick pad with a bass drum pedal, two 12 in crashes, a 12 in ride, a 12 in hi-hat pad with its controller on a hi-hat stand, the rack, power supply, cables and a pair of sticks; no throne or headphones.

A Thomann house-brand mesh kit with a 10 in snare, four toms, an 8 in kick pad with a pedal in the box, choke on the crashes and ride, and a 12 in hi-hat pad mounted on a real hi-hat stand, with 100 practice songs, a metronome and recording. It connects by USB MIDI, 5-pin MIDI and a wired aux input; the manual lists no Bluetooth, and its USB port is for MIDI devices and computers.

- Best for: First kit, Real feel, Apartment
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants to stream music or connect to apps over Bluetooth, or to record audio from the module over USB.
- Someone does it better: The Simmons Titan 20 has Bluetooth audio and MIDI and works as a USB audio interface, where the MPS-850 connects by USB MIDI, MIDI and a wired aux input.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - MPS-850 E-Drum Set: $559 at Thomann US (Millenium is Thomann's house brand) (https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm)
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.5 (2k) Thomann US
- Maker: https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm
- Sources:
  - Crash and ride choke, hi-hat does not: "Choke play is possible with crash and ride cymbals but not with the hi-hat." (https://fast-images.static-thomann.de/pics/atg/atgdata/document/manual/445689_v7_r1_en_online.pdf)
  - Module connections: "Connections for headphones, AUX, USB and MIDI" (https://fast-images.static-thomann.de/pics/atg/atgdata/document/manual/445689_v7_r1_en_online.pdf)
  - USB port is a MIDI connection: "Connection socket for an external MIDI device with a USB interface" (https://fast-images.static-thomann.de/pics/atg/atgdata/document/manual/445689_v7_r1_en_online.pdf)
  - Practice songs on board: "Demo and practise songs 100 pre-programmed songs, 2 user songs" (https://fast-images.static-thomann.de/pics/atg/atgdata/document/manual/445689_v7_r1_en_online.pdf)
  - Preset and user kits: "Drum kits 30 preset kits, 20 user kits" (https://fast-images.static-thomann.de/pics/atg/atgdata/document/manual/445689_v7_r1_en_online.pdf)
  - Hi-hat pad on a stand: "1x 12" Hi-hat pad with controller on stand" (https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm)
  - Crash pads with stop function: "2x 12" Two-zone crash cymbal pads with stop function" (https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm)
  - Mesh kick pad: "1x 08" Mesh head bass drum pad" (https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm)
  - Thomann customer rating: "4.5 out of 5 stars from 1828 customer ratings" (https://www.thomannmusic.com/millenium_mps_850_e_drum_set.htm)

### Donner DED-200 MAX Electronic Drum Set

Donner. entry kit, kick pad for a real pedal, hardware. In the box: The DED-200 MAX module, a 10 in mesh snare, two 8 in and one 10 in mesh toms, a 6 in kick pad with a bass drum pedal, a 10 in hi-hat with a hi-hat control pedal, 12 in crash and ride, a foldable rack, headphones, a drum throne, an audio cable and drumsticks.

A five-piece mesh kit with a 10 in snare, two 8 in and one 10 in toms, 12 in crash and ride you can grab to choke, a 6 in kick pad with a beater pedal in the box, and a Coach mode whose Time Check scores your timing, plus 50 play-along songs, shipped with headphones and a throne. It connects by USB MIDI and a wired aux input; the manual lists no Bluetooth and no USB audio.

- Best for: First kit, Small space
- Not for: Not for a drummer who wants Bluetooth or USB audio, since the module connects by USB MIDI and a wired aux input only, or a hi-hat pad on a real hi-hat stand.
- Someone does it better: The Millenium MPS-850 includes a hi-hat stand for its 12 in hi-hat pad, where the DED-200 MAX uses a hi-hat control pedal with a 10 in pad.
- Price (US, checked 2026-10-08):
  - DED-200 MAX, Drum option: $529.99 (regular $685.99) at Donner US store (https://us.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone)
  - Note: Not found at Sweetwater (403 to automated reads) or Musician's Friend, which lists other Donner kits; price is from Donner's own US store, which also shows a 12% code at checkout not counted here.
- App Store: not on this store
- Google Play: not on this store
- Retail ratings: 4.9 (75) Donner US store
- Maker: https://us.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone
- Sources:
  - What comes in the box: "Everything you need is included: a foldable iron metal stand with a stable and secure 4-post aluminum rack, hi-hat control, bass drum pedal, headphones" (https://us.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone)
  - Pad sizes: "1 x 12'' crash, 1 x 12'' ride, 1 x 10'' snare, 1 x 10'' tom3, 1 x 10'' hi-hat" (https://us.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone)
  - Preset and user kits: "There are 30 preset drum sets and 1 user-defined drum set" (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - Practice functions on the module: "The built-in 50 play-along songs, sequencer, metronome, auxiliary input, and recording function are all helpful tools for drummers to practice" (https://us.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone)
  - Coach mode checks timing and gives a score: "After starting TIME CHECK, if the drum is struck too fast or too slow, a prompt will be displayed." (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - Module interfaces: USB MIDI and wired audio, no Bluetooth listed: "Interfaces: 3.5mm Aux, 3.5mm Phone, 6.35mm Output, MIDI USB, DC9V, 6.35mm CRASH2." (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - The USB jack is a MIDI interface: "The MIDI USB interface of the electronic drum can be used to connect and interact with music devices with midi." (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - Cymbals choke when grabbed: "Support for stopping the sound by grabbing onto the cymbal." (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - Kick pedal has a beater: "insert the drum beater into the round hole" (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0518/1898/7676/files/DED-200Max_Manual_compressed.pdf)
  - Connects to a computer over USB as a DAW controller: "Just connect your drum kit to your PC or Mac via USB, using the electronic drums as a tool for your digital audio workstation" (https://au.donnermusic.com/products/donner-ded-200-max-electronic-drum-set-5-drum-3-cymbal-with-drum-throne-headphone)

## What we found

### Bluetooth means two different things

Bluetooth audio streams music from your phone into the module; Bluetooth MIDI lets an app read what you play. 11 of the 18 kits have Bluetooth audio and 9 have Bluetooth MIDI, and the Nitro Max and Nitro Pro stream audio only. Every kit here has USB MIDI, so a cable works with any app that reads MIDI.

### Pedal controller or kick pad

Two kits, the TD-02KV and the DTX402K, use a beaterless pedal controller. The other 16 use a kick pad played with a bass drum pedal, and 8 of those include the pedal in the box. For how the kick carries through a floor, see [quiet drum practice gear](/compare/quiet-drum-practice/).

### Check what is in the box

The kits that include a beater pedal all sit at the lower end of the price column; above that, most expect you to bring your own pedal, and some also leave out the hi-hat stand. The In the box line on each card lists what the maker says you get.

### Built-in coaching is nearly universal

16 of the 18 modules have training functions that check your timing or accuracy. The Strata Prime and the MPS-850 offer a click and play-along songs, without a timing check.

## How we checked

**Where the facts come from.** Every spec, feature tick and claim comes from the maker's own page, a store listing, a manual or a retailer's spec sheet, read on 2026-10-07, and the exact words relied on are kept with each row (open "Sources" on any card). Store ratings and review counts are the stores' own on that date, pulled through Sonar, an app-store analytics service. A feature is marked yes only when one of those sources says it; when none does, it is shown as unknown rather than as no.

**How it was checked.** Every row was researched once and then handed to a second, independent pass whose only job was to break it: open the same pages, check every spec, every tick, every rating and every quote. Rows it could not confirm were corrected, marked unknown, or dropped before publishing.

**What this page does not measure yet.** We have not put a drum recording through every app at half speed and compared how the hits survive. Time-stretching smears sharp attacks, and drums are all sharp attacks, so it matters; when we test it, the method will be here.

**Prices.** Every price is in US dollars, read on 2026-10-07 on the store or page named next to it, with a link: Sweetwater, Musician's Friend or the maker's own store for gear and books, the US App Store's in-app purchase list or the maker's pricing page for apps. When a maker sells for less on its own website than in the app, both are shown. Prices change, so the date is part of the fact: check the store before you buy. Nothing on this page is an affiliate link.

## FAQ

### Which electronic drum kits connect to apps?

Every kit here has USB MIDI, so any app that reads MIDI over a cable works, with the right adapter for a phone. Nine also have Bluetooth MIDI for a wireless link; the BT MIDI column shows which. For the apps themselves, see [apps and software for electronic kits](/compare/apps-for-electronic-drums/).

### What is the difference between Bluetooth audio and Bluetooth MIDI on a drum module?

Bluetooth audio plays music from your phone through the module so you can play along. Bluetooth MIDI sends what you play to an app, which is what learning and scoring apps need. A kit can have one without the other.

### Does an electronic kit come with a kick pedal?

Eight of the 18 kits here include a beater pedal, two use a beaterless pedal controller, and the rest are sold without a pedal. The Beater pedal and Kick columns show which.

### Is an electronic kit quiet enough for an apartment?

Mesh pads and headphones keep most of the sound out of the air, but the kick and pedals still carry through a floor. See [quiet drum practice gear](/compare/quiet-drum-practice/) and [drums in an apartment](/learn/learning-drums/drums-in-an-apartment/).

## Related

- [Apps and software for electronic kits compared](https://upbeat.studio/compare/apps-for-electronic-drums)
- [Headphones for electronic drums compared](https://upbeat.studio/compare/headphones-for-electronic-drums)
- [Which kits connect to Drum Coach](https://upbeat.studio/drum-coach/support/compatible-e-drums)
