The Best Drum Sticks

If you're raising a drummer, you've got an understanding of the importance of quality drum sticks – or at least you should. If not, let us give you the low-down. The perfect drum sticks have to be the right size for the drums being played, and they need to have the correct tips as well. They also need to suit the drummer's hands, both in terms of size and texture. Also, drum sticks break and get lost, so you probably want to buy some extras. Nothing is more frustrating to a budding drummer than having no sticks to use when rhythmic inspiration strikes. This time, make sure your child gets the best quality, longest-lasting sticks out there by choosing a set from the list below.

WOGOD 5A Maple Drum Sticks

High Performance Sticks That Won't Break the Bank

These sticks are built to impress, and they're available at an extremely affordable price.
Best Overall

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Sometimes, you don’t need a fancy brand name to know that something is high quality, and this set is all the proof you need. These drum sticks are made from hard maple, and they’re made in the most commonly used size (5A). They’ve got wooden tips that’ll help produce that resonant tone and even level of responsiveness you’re looking for.

These drum sticks are made with care by being logged, dried in a kiln, sanded, and finally sealed. They’re built to last as long as drum sticks can, and if not, they’re covered under a 100% satisfaction guarantee for life. What could be better than that?

Pros:

  • This purchase gets you 2 pairs of drumsticks at an unbelievable price
  • They’re suitable for almost any genre of music, as they are straight, durable, and extremely responsive
  • The WOGOD brand provides excellent customer service, should you ever come across an issue that requires support

Cons:

  • Some drummers prefer sticks from better-known brands, but these drum sticks are worth a try (and may even change your mind)

Vic Firth American Custom SD1 General

Quality Sticks from a Well-Known Brand

Vic Firth is a trusted brand, and these sticks are sure to show you why.
Runner Up

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If you are a drummer or have had a drummer in your family for long, you know all about Vic Firth. If you don’t know this company yet, it was founded by a successful musician and teacher whose name was – who would’ve guessed – Vic Firth. They’re the drum sticks you see at most schools and performing centers because they are known for their quality sound and durability.

This specific pair of sticks is the most commonly purchased from the Vic Firth brand. They’re size 5A and have round tips, making them perfect for a variety of uses, from rock to world music, and for beginners and professionals alike.

Pros:

  • These are thicker, easy-to-hold sticks that are also lightweight
  • They’re perfect for fast, demanding drum beats and have the optimal amount of both rebound and flex
  • They are made from high-quality maple to ensure excellent durability

Cons:

  • The name brand brings about a higher price point, though they are well worth a few extra dollars if they feel perfect for you or your aspiring drummer

Donner 5A Snare Drum Sticks

Never Misplace a Stick Again

These high-quality maple drum sticks come with a carrying case, so you can keep them together all the time.
Best with Carrying Bag

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All kinds of drums are awesome, but the snare has a special place in many drummers’ hearts. They’re simple, but they require a great deal of skill. They are in just about every song you hear on the radio, and they’re the first drum most musicians learn to play. This stick is the best of the best for this amazing instrument.

These snare drum sticks come in size 5A and have what’s referred to as a “waterdrop hammerhead.” They’re perfect for drumming as fast as you can (hello, drum rolls), and they produce a lovely tonality that’ll win a thumbs-up from even the snootiest of drum teachers. They even come with a carrying case, so you don’t need to worry about losing sticks as you travel from place to place.

Pros:

  • These are perfect for snare drum playing, but they also perform amazingly well on drums and cymbals of all kinds
  • The lightweight, smooth design is made to be comfortable and reduce fatigue while playing
  • They come with a 30-day 100% money-back guarantee

Cons:

  • These are made by a lesser-known brand once again, but their quality and sound will not disappoint

Kasemi Non-Slip 5A Drum Sticks

Keep Dropping Sticks? These Are For You.

Short of gluing the sticks directly to your hands, these non-slip drum sticks are the best option for a drummer with a slippery grip.
Best with Grips

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Finally, a pair of drum sticks that won’t slip out of your hands while you’re playing, even if you tend to get a bit sweaty by the mid-song mark. These drum sticks come with comfortable and durable grips, so you can keep them in your hands even in the most challenging of circumstances.

These drum sticks are size 5A, and they are made of that same durable-yet-lightweight maple wood. They come in a two-pack, and the grips come in a variety of colors so you can choose the pair that best suits your (or your young drummer’s) personal sense of style.

Pros:

  • These drum sticks are available at an affordable price, especially considering the fact that you get two pairs with your purchase
  • The raindrop tip is perfect for a wide variety of music styles

Cons:

  • The grip on this stick may make it feel as if the sticks are wider than they are (though they also make a huge difference in keeping the sticks in your hands)

Rockstix 2 Color-Changing Light-Up Drum Sticks

Light-Up Drum Sticks That Any Kid Would Love

Help your young drummer find their love for percussion with these light-up, color-changing drum sticks.
Best for Kids

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If you want to give something exciting and unique to your young drummer, this product is it. These sticks light up and change colors while you play, making them perfect for showtime (or just for fun). They may even be the motivation your child needs to get in the habit of practicing their drumming at home.

These drum sticks are size 5B, and they are made of extremely durable polycarbonate material. They have frosted tips for an even more interesting effect, and they come with the batteries they need to work right away. They’re sure to be loved by any child who gets the chance to use them.

Pros:

  • These drum sticks rotate through 13 different colors while they light up
  • The batteries are replaceable, so the light-up effect can last forever
  • The polycarbonate material is great for kids because it is less likely to break compared to wood

Cons:

  • These come at a higher cost when compared to typical wooden drumsticks
  • That cost gets a bit higher yet when you take battery replacements into consideration (though the batteries that are included are high quality and long-lasting)

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know which size of drumsticks is right for me?

If you’re new to drumming and wondering about stick size, it’s likely that you will want to start with a size 5A. This size is easy to grip, works well on a variety of different drums, and breaks less often than thinner sticks. It’s the perfect size for beginners as well as a majority of professionals.

Is maple the only option for wooden drum sticks?

There are drum sticks out there that are made of different woods, but maple is the strongest and produces the best-quality sound (which is why only maple sticks are shown on the list above).

Whether your child is just starting out or you’re a seasoned professional in the drumming world, the right pair of sticks for you can be found on the list above. Choose the pair (or set) of drum sticks that best suits your needs, and look forward to the comfort and quality sound they are about to deliver.