Denis Loncaric
When selecting the best drum throne, prioritize comfort, stability, adjustability, durability, portability, and design to enhance your playing experience and performance.
I tested over 20 drum thrones to find the best pick within different budgets and styles.
Here’s how I categorize them:
- Best under $100 (No backrest)
- Best under $200 (with and without a backrest)
- Best under $300 (with and without a backrest)
- My personal pick
With 18 years of drumming experience, ranging from intimate clubs to massive venues, Denis is not just a seasoned performer but also a drumming equipment enthusiast who loves diving into technical details and sharing insights from his rich journey. His passion for all things drumming, coupled with extensive hands-on experience, makes him a reliable source for drumming wisdom and advice.
6 Best Drum Thrones Under $100, $200 & $300
Tama HT741 Ergo-Rider Quartet
Who it’s for:
For drummers who have back pain, want ultimate comfort and are ready to pay for it.
Seat – The shape of the seat is quite unique. It is something between the rounded seat and a motorbike one. The comfort is extraordinary, there is no drum chair with this much comfort.
Backrest – You can adjust the backrest by the tiny bits. On most thrones, it is possible to adjust the backrest forward/backward and up/down but not the exact angle of it.
That feature makes this throne stand out from the others. Also, you can buy a backrest separately.
The fact that the backrest can be angled makes it perfect for transport and perfect for drummers with bad backs.
Sitting down to play, I immediately noticed the unparalleled comfort of the throne beneath me, feeling almost too sublime to be real.
Pros:
- Unique seat shape
- Stability
- Quality built
- Highly comfortable
Cons:
- Seat material tend to tear on edges
- High price
- Seat Type: Hybrid Round/Saddle
- Backrest: Yes
- Legs: 4 x Double-braced
- Height: 20.25″ – 26.18″
- Adjustment Type: Spindle
- Weight: 20.1 lbs
Tama HT10s
Who it’s for:
For beginners and hobbyists under 85kg.
Lightweight & Portable: The Tama HT10S is a featherweight champ at just 2.4kg. It’s perfect for the drummer on the go. Easy to tote around, it’s a no-brainer for gigs or practice sessions.
Sturdy Enough for the Weight: Sure, it feels light when I pick it up, but the moment I sit down to play, its stability astounds me. Unlike other lightweight thrones I’ve tried, this one— the HT10S —remains steadfast, offering me a solid foundation that doesn’t budge, even as I lose myself in the most intense drumming sessions.
Value for Money: This throne hits the sweet spot on price. At under $100, it’s a steal. Ideal for those just starting out or drumming on a budget, the HT10S offers quality without the hefty price tag.
Tailored for Beginners & Hobbyists: Speaking of beginners, the Tama HT10S is perfect for newbies or hobby drummers. It blends affordability, simplicity, and quality, making it the best cheap drum throne on the current market.
Pros:
- Lightweight and Portable
- Affordable Price
- Comfortable Seat
- Adjustable Height
- Sturdy Construction
Cons:
- Less Stable than Heavier Thrones
- Basic Features
- Single Braced Legs
- Limited Adjustability Compared to Higher-End Models
- Seat: 12″ Diameter Round Seat
- Legs: Single Braced Legs
Weight: 2.4kg (5.3lbs) - Height Adjustment Range: 380mm – 570mm (15″ – 22 1/2″)
DW 5120
Who it’s for:
For drummers who need solid and reliable drum throne, want comfort but don’t want a backrest.
Seat – 2 models in this series DW5120 and 5100. They are being produced with both motorbike and rounded drum throne seats. The size of the seat is 13″. My vote always goes to the motorbike seat because the shape has more sense.
Hardware – 3 double-braced legs will provide stability when playing and keep you firmly on the ground. The screw system on the lock is rock solid and very simple-looking. Plastic on the bottom side of the seat is not the best, but it is not too shaky when you tighten up the screw.
Features – As I experiment with the DW 5120, I discover the simplicity of adjusting the seat height just by twirling the seat itself. To keep my preferred height in memory, all I need to do is tighten the lock. What truly sets it apart is its simplicity — with only three screws making up the entire throne, it’s undoubtedly one of the most straightforward designs I’ve encountered in the market.
DW put a lot of effort into DW 5120 yet and this is truly the best drum throne for the money, yet there is room for improvement.
Pros:
- Great built quality
- Simplistic design
- Great value for money
- 2 Seat types available
Cons:
- No backrest
- No memory lock
- Poor quality plastic parts
- Throne weight: 13.9 pounds
- Style: Heavy Duty
- Dimensions: 20″D x 23″W x 7″H
- Weight: 13.9 pounds
Donner Drum Throne with Backrest
Who it’s for:
For the ones who have back problems but don’t want to spend a fortune on a back support.
Sturdy and Reliable: The first thing I noticed about the Donner drum throne was its robust build. It’s heavy and solid, offering the kind of stability you need when your playing gets intense. There’s no wobble here, just unwavering support that lets you focus entirely on your performance.
Comfort: The throne’s cushioning is decent, offering a fair level of comfort for longer drumming sessions. While not the pinnacle of plushness, it does the job. The backrest adds a layer of support, though it’s more about function than luxury. It’s a practical choice for those prioritizing straightforward support over lavish comfort.
Easy to use: Assembling the throne was refreshingly simple. It’s designed for quick setup and easy height adjustments, accommodating drummers of all sizes without hassle. This throne isn’t about complications; it’s about getting you ready to play with ease.
Pros:
- Sturdy Construction
- Comfortable Cushioning
- Back Support
- Easy Assembly
- Height Adjustability
- No Squeaking
Cons:
- Not Suited for Very Heavy Individuals
- May Not Be Ideal for Professional Use
- Some Reports of Stiff Swivel
- Occasional Quality Control Issues
- Size: 19.8 x 15.5 x 9.8
- Style: Traditional
- Frame Material: Metal
- Seat Material Type: Leather
- Shape: Saddle
- Item Weight: 20 Pounds
- Ergonomic Design: Adjustable chair back conforming to human body curvature
- Height Adjustment: Quick hydraulic mechanism for easy height changes
- Seat Cushion: Breathable suede with high-density memory foam padding
- Components: Exquisite and durable for long-lasting use
- Support: Double steel plate frame with anti-slip pads, supports up to 440 pounds
Tama Round Rider XL
Who it’s for:
For the ones who want a good drum throne, cushioned and cozy. If you don’t need a backrest but you are still ready to pay some extra buck to get less fatigue this one is for you.
Seat – The throne’s size and firmness were exactly as they should be, offering a solid foundation that felt reassuring. The soft memory foam cradled me in coziness and comfort, making the hours of my 2-3 hour gig pass in what felt like mere moments.
Features – You can adjust the height in 2 ways, by twirling the throne or twirling the height lock. It utilizes the “Rocklock” system to prevent moving and provides stability.
Pros:
- Memory system
- Great comfort
- Double based legs
- Memory foam fill
- Two fabric option
Cons:
- No backrest
- Rounded seat only
- Maximum Weight Recommendation: 330 Pounds
- Assembly Required: No
- Throne Weight: 13.2 Pounds
- Throne Dimensions: 22″D x 21″W x 8.5″H
Gibraltar 9608MB
Who it’s for:
Great alternative to my number one pick. Go with this one only if Tama Ergo Rider is too expensive for you.
Seat – 9608MB’s seat is unique. It is not too thick but has great curves designed to fit your rear. Materials used for the seat are Cordura on top and vinyl on the edges. In addition, it is filled with memory foam.
Hardware – The throne, equipped with three double-braced legs and large rubber feet, provided an unwavering foundation. The addition of a memory lock ensured my preferred height setting remained consistent, offering both stability and convenience in my setup.
Backrest – Another thing good about Gibraltar is that you have the option to buy a backrest separately.
It is the best alternative to expensive thrones with a backrest.
We are not getting the premium quality but have in mind that nobody offers something similar to this drum throne.
It is best for drummers who don’t have long gigs but want a throne with a backrest.
Pros:
- Big backrest
- Great price
- Ergonomic seat
Cons:
- Seat is not thick enough to support 2+ hour gigs
- Backrest is not adjustable by angle only by height
- Tend to be little bit shaky
- Seat Type: Saddle
- Seat Size: 16″ x 14″ x 3.5″
- Backrest: Yes
- Material: Cordura, Vinyl
- Legs: 3 x Double-braced
- Height: 19″ – 27″
- Adjustment Type: Spindle
- Weight Capacity: 285 lbs
- Weight: 18 lbs
How to choose a drum throne?
1st Decision – Budget
First thing first, the BUDGET!
We are talking about $80+ drum thrones. For anything cheaper, you risk getting a shitty drum throne that:
- won’t last
- can break
- is not comfortable
With any of the drum thrones above, you will avoid that, and some you can even upgrade with a backrest.
2nd Decision – With or without a backrest
A backrest is a must for many drummers due to back problems that a lot of us have. So don’t save your cash; save your back.
If you don’t need a backrest even better, you will pay less for a throne. The fact that your drum throne has a backrest does not mean that you need to lean back all the time.
It is only there to support your back when you need it, and you can take it off.
3rd Decision – Seat shape
So, motorbike style, rounded or something other. Small companies tend to come up with different shapes, but 99% of the time, it’s either rounded or bike type.
There is no right or wrong, and it’s a matter of personal preference. I say try both and see what fits you.
Pro tips
Foam – what makes a rock-solid throne even better is good foam in the seat. Get a throne with a quality foam seat with advanced formulas or plain old furniture padding.
Hardware – look for a drum seat made of firm alloy and heavy legs. The heavier the hardware, the better.
Fastening and Adjustment Options – sometimes in for a small price difference you can get more options to adjust the throne so, eyes open!
Wrap Up
In my latest update on the best drum thrones for 2023, I’ve sorted out the top picks to suit every drummer’s budget and needs.
Whether you’re looking for something under $100, $200, or even $300, I’ve got you covered. I’ve also included options with and without backrests to cater to various preferences.
Each throne is handpicked for its distinct features, ensuring you get the best value, comfort, and quality for your money. And hey, I’ve even thrown in my personal favorite to give you a taste of what I trust for my drumming sessions.
This guide is your one-stop shop for finding the throne that’s just right for you.
My name is Denis. I am a drummer, percussionist, music enthusiast, and blogger. Drums have been my passion for 15 years now. My idea is to write about the things I like and I am interested in. I want to share my drum passion with fellow musicians who walk, talk, and breathe drums.
je parcours tous des articles du blog toujours tres bien ecrit continuez comme ça
I must disappoint you, I am using WP