Once seen as a compromise for quiet practice or electronic-heavy genres, electronic drums have rapidly evolved into sophisticated, expressive instruments at the forefront of modern music-making. With innovations in mesh heads, trigger technology, sound engines, and hybrid drumming, e-kits are no longer playing catch-up — they’re setting the pace. As players demand more versatility, connectivity, and realism, the market for electronic drums is expanding across studio, stage, and education spaces alike.
To take the pulse of this fast-moving segment, we gathered key voices from four industry powerhouses — Roland, Alesis, DW, and Yamaha — to discuss where electronic drums are heading. From hardware innovation to retail strategy, consumer trends to cross-platform integration, this roundtable digs into how these brands are responding to shifting demands and shaping the future of drumming.
“Quiet practice, straightforward recording, easy integration with music software, and the ability to expand sounds over time have become key expectations. As electronic kits continue to blur the line with acoustic drums in both feel and sound, customers are responding to instruments that deliver realism and versatility with equal weight.” – James Petercsak, Senior Product Manager – Drums and Percussion, Roland Corporation U.S.
For your brand, what’s currently the top-selling model of electronic drums?
John Boudreau: Alesis Nitro Max is our top-selling electronic drum kit — and quite possibly the best-selling e-drum kit worldwide. Its combination of playability, durability, and accessible price point has made it the go-to choice for drummers at every level.
Mike Sutton: For DWe, the most popular configurations are the 5-piece kits in a range of Finish Ply and Lacquer Custom finishes. Many drummers love that they can start with a 5-piece and easily expand to 6- or 7-piece setups, closely matching the feel and layout of their acoustic DW kits. This scalability has been a key driver of DWe’s success with drummers.
James Petercsak: For Roland, the TD-27 and TD-17 V-Drums Series kits have consistently been our most popular, often competing for the top spot. They strike a great balance between professional-level performance and accessibility, making them a go-to for a wide range of drummers.
With the introduction of the new 3 and 5 Series V-Drums, which succeed the TD-17 and TD-27 kits, we’re building upon that momentum by adding expanded features and unifying the sound engine with our flagship V71 module. This brings flagship-level sound, expandability, and editing capabilities to every kit in the 3 and 5 Series.
Matt Rudin: The past few months, our DTX6K5-M has been outpacing the rest. This is due in large part to the larger mesh pads on Yamaha’s durable and reliable hardware, along with what is one of the most powerful and feature-packed modules on the market.
What features in electronic drum kits are customers most drawn to in 2025?
MS: Drummers are increasingly drawn to DWe’s wireless technology, which makes setup and teardown dramatically easier while giving both stage and studio setups a clean, professional look. The biggest differentiator is that DWe feels like a DW acoustic kit — because it is one. Not only does it provide the flexibility of electronics, but it also has the unique ability to be converted into a high-end DW acoustic drum set. This means drummers never have to choose between the authentic acoustic experience they know and the cutting-edge flexibility of electronics — with DWe, they can truly have both.
MR: That really depends on the price point and experience level. Entry-level e-drum buyers still seem to be focused on price point and having training tools and other features that encourage learning and help drummers progress on their musical journey will be attractive to this segment. With an intermediate to advanced player, ability to connect with multiple devices, additional outputs, and features that make it easy to record or aid in live performances are strong draws for this audience. Our DTX-PROX module, which is available on the DTX8K-PROX series and the DTX10K Series, has been getting a lot of attention from gigging drummers due to its robust MIDI, USB and audio I/O with the ability to route to any of its eight individual outputs, along with the Live Set features, making it an incredible tool for performing drummers.
JP: We believe drummers in 2025 are most drawn to kits that feel natural to play, and sound authentic in any environment. Quiet practice, straightforward recording, easy integration with music software, and the ability to expand sounds over time have become key expectations. As electronic kits continue to blur the line with acoustic drums in both feel and sound, customers are responding to instruments that deliver realism and versatility with equal weight.
JB: Most drummers use electronic kits for practice and learning, with some live performance use. Quiet mesh heads — versus the volume of acoustic drums — are one of the main draws, along with compact, space-saving designs ideal for home or apartment setups.
For learning, Alesis kits feature onboard songs and coaching tools, while Bluetooth audio streaming in the Nitro line allows drummers to play along with their favorite tracks. We also partner with Drumeo to include leading educational software.
Of course, high-quality sounds and responsive triggering are non-negotiable. Alesis delivers both by combining excellent pad sensitivity with world-class BFD drum sounds.
“The most successful retailers will invest in well-presented displays, regular upkeep, and knowledgeable staff training, so every customer interaction highlights just how seamless and inspiring DWe is to play.” – Mike Sutton, Drum Workshop, DWe Brand Manager
Are tariffs impacting your ability to source materials for electronic drums?
JP: Tariffs and supply chain shifts always create some ripple effects in our industry, but they haven’t stopped us from getting instruments into drummers’ hands. Roland’s global production and sourcing give us some flexibility, so while there are always adjustments, we’ve been able to keep product flowing and maintain the quality players expect.
MR: No. Fortunately, our ability to source materials has not been impacted by tariffs. We have had to increase prices recently for a variety of factors, including tariffs and increased labor and shipping costs, but it remains to be seen if there will be a longer-term impact.
JB: Like all electronic drum manufacturers, Alesis is subject to U.S. import tariffs. While these affect sourcing, we continue to focus on delivering the best possible value to customers worldwide.
MS: While tariffs have created some ripple effects in material costs, DWe has been remarkably stable because many of its components are designed and manufactured in-house at the DW factory in Oxnard, CA. This vertical integration not only reduces exposure to supply chain volatility but also ensures the premium build quality drummers expect from DW.
“Nothing beats having properly set-up e-kits on the retail floor, with sticks and headphones ready to go. The experience of sitting down and playing is what truly convinces customers. Playing is believing!” – John Boudreau, Director of Product Development, Alesis Drums
What are some key strategies that MI retailers ought to consider adopting when it comes to displaying and marketing electronic drum kits?
MR: I would love to see more done with the floor demo kits. Obviously, having a way for customers to experience the sound and feel of the e-drums is very helpful, and I completely understand the challenges of having drums that are constantly getting worn down and potentially damaged on the floor. However, when drums are on the floor, having clear instructions or tips in the way of POP or signage is helpful. We take for granted that every module is different and different drums have different capabilities, so working together with manufacturers to create and display signage is a great way for retailers to improve the experience.
MS: Retailers have a tremendous opportunity to showcase DWe by creating engaging, hands-on experiences that let drummers feel the difference immediately. Unlike traditional e-kits, DWe offers the authentic look, feel, and response of a DW acoustic kit — enhanced by wireless freedom and powerful sound flexibility.
The most successful retailers will invest in well-presented displays, regular upkeep, and knowledgeable staff training, so every customer interaction highlights just how seamless and inspiring DWe is to play. When presented this way, DWe stands out not just as another electronic kit, but as the future of electronic drumming — a solution that excites and inspires drummers.
JB: Nothing beats having properly set-up e-kits on the retail floor, with sticks and headphones ready to go. The experience of sitting down and playing is what truly convinces customers. Playing is believing!
JP: The most effective strategy is still giving drummers the chance to sit down and play. Nothing sells an electronic kit like experiencing the feel and sound firsthand through quality headphones or monitors. Creating reasons for drummers to visit the store is key. For instance, setting up a content station where players can record and share short clips, running gamified challenges with leaderboards and prizes, or offering in-store only bundle incentives that pair kits with accessories and/or lessons can be a great way to drive traffic.
For retailers who sell primarily online, high-quality video demos, clear product comparisons, and educational content on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and other social channels are essential. Customers want to see and hear the kits in action, understand how they’re built, and know they’re supported after purchase, so investing in content and customer service goes a long way.
“With an intermediate to advanced player, ability to connect with multiple devices, additional outputs, and features that make it easy to record or aid in live performances are strong draws for this audience.” – Product Marketing Manager, Drums, Yamaha Corporation of America
Do you have any recently introduced or upcoming electronic drum kits that you’d like to highlight?
JB: In recent years, we’ve updated our #1 selling Nitro Mesh kit to the Nitro Max, and followed up with the Nitro Pro, which offers larger drums and cymbals for next-level playability, plus expanded kits and sounds across more musical genres.
This fall, we’re excited to launch the Nitro Ultimate — delivering all the benefits of Nitro Pro plus a moving hi-hat for the first time ever under $1,000.
At the flagship level, we also introduced the Strata Series, which features a high-resolution BFD engine and expansive kit library within a touchscreen module, along with all-new pro-level hardware, including Strata drums, ARC 360° cymbals, and a moving hi-hat.
JP: Yes! Today marks one of the biggest V-Drums launches in recent memory with the introduction of the new 3 and 5 Series kits. The 3 Series includes the TD313, TD316, and VAD316, which deliver premium sound in compact setups, with the VAD316 offering an acoustic design option.
The 5 Series includes the TD513, TD516, and VAD516, offering larger footprints, more digital pad integration, and in the case of the VAD516, the most immersive acoustic-like look and feel. All of these kits are powered by the same flagship sound engine found in the V71 module that powers the 7 Series.
MS: Yes, this year we introduced a new cymbal option for DWe — the ability to use Roland V-Cymbals with the Roland DrumLink WT-10 wireless adapters. This makes DWe an ideal choice for situations that require quieter ambient noise, such as silent stage environments or home practice. This innovation reflects DW and Roland’s shared ability to anticipate and respond to customer needs with practical, player-focused solutions.
Another standout feature of DWe is its open sound source flexibility. Drummers can pair their kits with DW Soundworks, an expansive virtual instrument for music production, or with hardware modules like Roland’s V71 for reliable live performance. This “best of both worlds” approach ensures that DWe adapts seamlessly to every player’s workflow — whether in the studio or on stage.
Additionally, we’ve been continually expanding the DW Soundworks sound library with new expansion packs, giving music creators and musicians an even greater color palette of sounds to inspire creativity and bring their music to life.
MR: The DTX8K-PROX Series just launched. Powered by the flagship DTX-PROX module with Bluetooth, these kits are available in either Mesh or Textured Cellular Silicone (TCS) pads and with a choice of Real Wood or Black Forest finishes. Featuring the KIT MODIFIER and LED Rotary Faders, which allow unparalleled sound adjustments with the simple twist of a knob, they give drummers engineer-level control, while delivering the highest quality sounds and intuitive live performance. The DTX8K-PROX Series offers the features and versatility necessary for the next evolution in creative expression, both on and off the stage.
Expectations for the electronic drum kit market in the coming months?
MS: We expect to see continued growth in hybrid and professional-level electronic kits, with drummers demanding an authentic feel, easy setup, and pro-level sounds. DWe is perfectly positioned for this trend — bridging the gap between acoustic tradition and electronic innovation. As more drummers seek gear that integrates seamlessly into both their studio and live setups, DWe stands out as the premium choice.
JP: We’re very optimistic about the months ahead for electronic drums. More students are starting on e-kits, more working drummers are taking them on stage, and more creators are using them for content production; clear signs that electronic drums are no longer a niche but a core part of drumming. As realism, sound quality, and connectivity continue to improve, we expect steady growth across education, gigging, and home use alike.
MR: Keep an eye out for news about new releases at NAMM this year. We will have some exciting electronic drum-related announcements to make in 2026.
JB: At the high end of the market, there is a lot of interesting technology from wireless triggering systems, module expansion capabilities for more versatile sound libraries, wood shell electronic drums, and more. Alesis will continue to look at these trends and customer acceptance to feed into our product strategy to ensure Alesis continues to offer what customers want.
