Best Snare Drum (Buyer’s Guide) – Keep the Beat in 2019!

Some links on this page are monetized by affiliate programs - see disclosure for details.

Snare Drum Guide FeaturedAcoustic songs are nice to listen to, but if you’re a rock musician, you know the value of having an assortment of instruments to create a heavy-hitting sound. If there isn’t a vocalist in your song, you have to rely solely on instruments. For example, marching bands perform for hundreds or even thousands of people without ever using any words – only the sound of instruments coming together to recreate classic and modern hit songs.

Whether you’re a drummer in the band or you’re a member of the marching band, snare drums play an important role in creating the sound your audience wants to hear.

The 10 Top Rated Snare Drums of 2019

PictureNameBrandPriceRating
Pork Pie Snare DrumPork Pie Snare Drum
Pork Pie$$$4.9
Pearl PL900C Educational Kits Snare & Bell KitPearl PL900C Snare & Bell Kit
Pearl$$$$4.8
GP Percussion SK22 Complete Student Snare Drum KitGP Percussion SK22 Complete Student Snare Drum Kit
GP Percussion$$4.7
Ludwig Supralite Steel Snare DrumLudwig Supralite Steel Snare DrumLudwig$$$4.7
Mapex MPX14 inch x 5.5 inch all maple snare drumMapex MPX14 All MapleMapex$$4.7
LP Micro Snare DrumLP Micro Snare DrumLatin Percussion$$4.7
New Student Snare Drum Set with Case, Sticks, Stand & Practice Pad KitNew Student Snare Drum SetGammon Percussion$$4.6
Mapex Steel Piccolo Snare DrumMapex Steel Piccolo Snare DrumMapex$$4.6
Griffin Snare DrumGriffin Snare DrumGrifin Stands$4.5
Evans Hybrid Coated Snare Batter Drum HeadEvans Hybrid Coated Snare Batter Drum HeadEvans$4.5
PictureNameBrandPriceRating

Intro: A Guide to Buying a Snare Drum

Contents

A snare drum is a type of percussion instrument that is used in conjunction with other drums as part of a drum set or with other instruments, like when performing in a marching band or orchestra. The snare is one of the most recognizable sounds, even when played with other types of drums.

This is because it can be used to create sound that blends with other music, or a player can use it to create unique sounds that stand apart from the rest of the band.

What are the Advantages?

The advantage of a snare drum is the unique sound that it makes. If this is the only type of instrument you play, such as in a marching band walking across the football field or downtown in a parade, you’ll need to have one in order to create music. If you play drums in a band, you can customize your sound with a snare drum added to your kit.

What are the Different Types of Snare Drum?

Musical instruments can be very expensive, and you don’t want to spend all of your money on the wrong item. There are several different types to choose from that are used for different sounds.

  • Marching snare – These are portable and are used when performing with a marching band. There are two different types of marching snares: regular and high tension. These drums are 12 to 14 inches wide and produce a deeper sound.
  • Drum kit snare – These are about as wide as marching snares but not as deep. They are used as part of a complete drum kit.
  • Piccolo snares – These look like other types of drums, but the main difference is in the higher-pitched sound they produce.

What’s the Best Snare Drum for Beginners?

The snare drum is a good choice for beginners because it’s simple to set up and fun to play. It helps you learn the basics. Plus, it’s versatile enough so you can play whatever type of music you enjoy including rock, classical, jazz and more.

When selecting a snare drum, consider what type of music you’re be playing most of the time. Different types of drums are better suited for different styles.

Also, consider the size of the drum. When using a snare drum as part of a standard drum kit, most people use a five by 14-inch drum. However, the larger 6.5 by 14-inch drum is commonly used for orchestras.

Drums have wood, metal or composite shells. Wood shells are usually the most affordable. They have a traditional sound. Metal shells have a livelier tone. Composite shells combine the sound of wood and metal, but they’re usually the most expensive option.

Which Snare Drums are the Best on the Market in 2019?

GP Percussion SK22 Complete Student Snare Drum Kit

Learning how to play the drums takes time, commitment, and of course, the right equipment. Students that want to learn how to play the snare can do so comfortably with this kit, which comes with everything you need to get started. This set is fully functional, high quality, and best of all, affordable, so you don’t have to throw away a lot of money on a learning tool for your student.

Pearl PL900C Educational Kits Snare & Bell Kit

Whether you’ve never played before or you’re just a beginner trying to improve your skills, this kit is an excellent investment. This is great for individual students, as well as for classroom use by band or music teachers. This kit comes with everything you need, additional extras, and a way to make transporting your equipment much more convenient.

Pork Pie Snare Drum

For sound that is truly unmatched, you have to invest your money in a quality instrument. Pork Pie has a line of instruments, including this drum, which have a very unique sound. This is a great choice for the experienced drummer, and it has a unique, retro look that makes it even more appealing.

Things to Consider Before Buying a Snare Drum

Musical instruments can be expensive, which is why you need to make sure you make the right purchase the first time around. You don’t want to waste money, and you don’t want to be stuck with a product that you just don’t like to use. Before you buy, check out these four features and carefully evaluate each product you consider purchasing.

Price

The price is dependent upon a number of factors, most notably the quality of the instrument. A basic beginner’s model may cost just around $100, while one that is more durable and is designed for use with a kit to be played by a professional may cost several hundred or even thousands of dollars. Budget is important, but you also want to make sure you purchase the right size and type to achieve the perfect sound.

Size

Size affects the sound of the drum, and it also determines how portable it is. A larger drum may not be able to be carried around in the marching band, while a smaller drum designed for this purpose isn’t a good choice if you want a hard-hitting rock sound in your band.

Recommended Level

Advanced players don’t want to play with beginner kits that don’t produce a variety of sounds, while those new to drumming may not be able to take full advantage of a more expensive model. If you’re new to playing, look for a kit designed just for beginners. If you’re a seasoned pro, purchase one that gives you a customizable sound.

Included Extras

Make sure you’re getting the best value by looking at what’s included in the box. If you have to buy a bunch of additional accessories, the inexpensive model you’ve been eyeing may not be such a good deal after all.

Price

GP Percussion SK22

This set is very affordable and has the lowest price out of our top three sets.

Pearl PL900C

This set is a little more on the expensive side. However, it includes lots of extras that make this package a bargain deal.

Pork Pie

This is one of the more expensive drums you’ll find that is designed to create superior sound.

Size

GP Percussion SK22

This model measures in at 5.5” by 14”.

Pearl PL900C

This drum measures 3.5” by 13”.

Pork Pie

This measures 6.5” by 14”.

Recommended Level

GP Percussion SK22

This is a great choice for students and beginners.

Pearl PL900C

This is a student set designed for beginners who are learning to play.

Pork Pie

This drum is best for a more experienced player.

Included Extras

GP Percussion SK22

With your drum you’ll receive a stand, bag, drum key, practice pad, and drumsticks, so you’ll have everything you need to get started.

Pearl PL900C

In addition to the drum, you will also receive bells, drumsticks, pad, carrying case, and stand.

Pork Pie

No extras are included with your purchase.

Final Word: The Best Snare Drum Reviews

Best Cheap Option: GP Percussion SK22GP Percussion SK22 Complete Student Snare Drum Kit

Students who are just learning how to play can do so easily with this complete set, which comes with everything you need to start drumming. The drum itself is a 14-inch metal-shelled model that is very durable and ready for a new player. It comes with a double braced stand to keep it secure and in place while in play.

This is a great set for home use or in the classroom. Students who want to play without disturbing others can do so on the included rubber practice pad. It also comes with wooden drum sticks, a key for tuning, and a padded nylon backpack that also has a carrying handle to make the entire set very portable. Overall, this is a durable set that is great for a novice player, and the price just can’t be beat for everything that is included with the purchase.

Pros:

  • It is extremely affordable.
  • The drum is overall very good quality for a beginner’s set.
  • It comes with all of the things you need to get started immediately.
  • It produces good sound.

Cons:

  • The stand is a bit short at just 3 feet.
  • The drum needs to be retuned frequently.

Great Value: Pearl PL900CPearl PL900C Educational Kits Snare & Bell Kit

Your student or child can learn the basics with this great kit, which comes with everything you need, including a high-quality drum. This set is great for the classroom or home use and is easy for children or beginners to use. You won’t have to worry about buying anything else, since this comes with everything you need to get started. The 13-inch drum has a 2.5 octave range for versatile sound while learning, and bells are included.

This also comes with a sturdy stand for playing. A drum pad is included, as well as wooden sticks. This is a very portable set that comes with a nylon carrying case with retractable handle and wheels for easy mobility. All of the pieces are very sturdy and durable, so they’re able to withstand the pounding of a new player. For everything that is included in the set, this is a real bargain when compared to buying each piece separately.

Pros:

  • It comes with everything you need to start.
  • It has a lot of extras not found with other sets.
  • The sound is good overall.
  • It is a very versatile drum.
  • All of the pieces are very high quality, so it can withstand lots of use.

Cons:

  • It does not have a built-in dampener like other models.
  • The bells are a bit difficult to attach to the stand.

Best Snare Drum Overall: Pork PiePork Pie Snare Drum

Not all snare drums are made alike, and if you really want a clear sound that you can add your own twist to, you’ll want to invest in a model that outshines the rest, like this drum from Pork Pie. You’ll notice a clear difference in the tone of this snare, and unlike other drums, you won’t spend hours adjusting and tuning it to make it sound just right.

This 14-inch drum has a durable brass shell that withstands years of use. The nickel-plated chrome finish and chrome plated tube lugs give this a retro appearance that is very appealing. It is fitted with Pork Pie’s exclusive snare wires which help produce the sound that is truly unlike other drums. It has superior sensitivity, projection, and volume when compared to other models on the market. This is a drum for the professional who truly has an ear for music.

Pros:

  • Doesn’t have to be constantly tuned and adjusted like less expensive models.
  • It has very attractive styling.
  • It is extremely high quality.
  • The sound, volume, and projection are clear.
  • It is very durable.

Cons:

  • It’s a bit expensive.
  • It doesn’t have a built-in dampener.

Conclusion

A snare drum is a very important part of a drum kit or marching band, and if this is your instrument of choice, you should never sacrifice quality. That is why the Pork Pie Snare Drum is a top pick for best snare drum. Its durable design will last, and the sound quality will blow the audience away. This model is ready to play right out of the box without needing to add upgrades or spend hours tuning to produce the right sound. Even though this model is a bit on the expensive sound, the overall quality is worth the extra investment, as you’ll be making beautiful music in no time.