Top 10 Things You Should Know Before Buying Your First Kit

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and buy your first drum kit? Welcome to the club! (Warning: it’s addictive.) Whether you’re chasing rock-star dreams or just want a new creative outlet, here are 10 things every first-time drummer should know before you buy.

1. Consider Your Budget
Quality used kits (like the ones at Drum Flip 😉) often give you more bang for your buck than entry-level new ones. Set a budget that feels comfortable for you, and keep in mind you can always upgrade or trade up as your playing grows. Drum Flip offers lifetime trade-ins. So, if you want to upgrade, we got you. You can check out our used selection here.

2. Acoustic vs. Electronic

• Acoustic: The classic sound and feel, but loud and space-hungry.
• Electronic: Budget-friendly, space-friendly, practice-ready, and usually come as a complete package. With headphones the ability to play anytime, day or night.

3. Kit Size & Fit

Full-size kits are the standard for most adults, but smaller jazz or bop kits are a great choice if you’re tight on space—or if you want a portable gigging option.

4. Start Small

You don’t need every drum right away. Kick, snare, one tom, hi-hats, and a crash/ride will cover 90% of what you’ll play.

5. Cymbals = Game Changer

Cheap cymbals can hold you back. Upgrading to even one nice crash or ride instantly levels up your sound.

6. Sticks & Heads Don’t Last Forever

They break. They dent. It’s part of drumming. Keep a backup pair of sticks and be ready to swap out heads every so often.

7. Drums Are Loud

Be real about your space. Acoustic drums will test your walls (and your neighbors). They may also limit your playing time to daytime hours. Practice pads, mesh heads, or an electronic kit might a good alternative if noise is an issue.

8. Comfort Counts

A good drum throne isn’t optional. It’s essential. Sitting right helps you play longer and avoid bad habits.

9. Lessons Speed Things Up

Even just a few lessons give you direction and make practice more fun. YouTube is great, but a teacher can help you avoid the “I don’t know what I’m doing” slump.

10. It’s More Than a Hobby

Drumming is a lifelong adventure. Building rhythm, focus, and confidence takes time, so don’t get discouraged. It’s a marathon, not a sprint—and along the way, it keeps your mind active while giving you stress relief, exercise, and plenty of fun.

Bonus: Pick a Kit You Love Looking At
Yep, color matters. If you love how it looks, you’ll want to sit down and play more often.

Also in Drum Flip Tips