Best 13" Toms for Beginner 2026
So, you're starting out on drums and looking at toms, huh? A lot of beginners get overwhelmed, especially when it comes to sizes. A 13" tom is a sweet spot - big enough to get some meat on the sound, but not so huge it's a wrestling match to control. Let's break down what to look for when choosing your first 13" toms, so you're not stuck with something that sounds like a tin can or feels like hitting concrete.
Last updated: July 1, 2026 • Next update: July 8, 2026
⚡ The best 13" toms in 2026 are Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple SOP (top pick), Yamaha 13"x09" Recording Custom SOB for tighter budgets, and Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple GN for pros — selected from 15 options across 5 brands, priced $159–$724, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple SOP
Alternative Setup
Unique Sound
Rock
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom delivers a beautifully balanced, warm tone – classic Gretsch quality without the top-tier price tag. It’s a fantastic addition to any kit needing a versatile and articulate tom voice, especially well-suited for genres like jazz, classic rock, and studio recording. The Silver Sealer really helps it sit well in a mix.
PROS
- • Maple shell delivers warm, resonant tones with excellent projection.
- • 302 hoops enhance tuning stability and a focused attack.
- • Silver Sealer interior minimizes unwanted overtones for a cleaner sound.
- • GTS mounting system allows for optimal shell resonance and placement.
CONS
- • Silver Oyster Pearl finish can be a fingerprint magnet requiring frequent cleaning.
- • Maple construction, while versatile, might lack the aggressive bark of birch.
- • The 7-ply construction, while solid, isn't the absolute thickest available.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 575183
$428
#2
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha 13"x09" Recording Custom SOB
by
Yamaha
Alternative Setup
Custom
Rock
Key Feature:
The Yamaha Recording Custom SOB 13-inch tom is a solid choice for drummers seeking a focused, articulate sound. Its birch construction provides a warm, controlled tone that sits well in a mix – perfect for studio work or gigging where clarity is key. This tom is a great addition to a kit, or works well as a standalone accent piece.
PROS
- • Birch shell delivers focused, warm tone with excellent projection
- • Solid Black (SOB) finish offers a clean, professional aesthetic
- • Triple-flanged hoops enhance resonance and tuning stability
- • Y.E.S.S. mounting system minimizes shell vibration for clearer sound
CONS
- • Birch construction leans toward a less 'vintage' vibe than maple
- • SOB finish can show fingerprints and smudges easily
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for a single tom
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 517733
$725
#3
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple GN
Jazz
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom is a solid choice for drummers seeking a classic Gretsch sound without the ultra-premium price tag. The maple shell provides a warm, musical tone that sits beautifully in a mix, and the GTS mounting system helps it breathe. It’s perfect for players who value vintage character and quality construction for mid-sized to larger drum kits.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Gretsch’s 30° bearing edge enhances head vibration and projection.
- • Silver Sealer interior finish minimizes unwanted overtones and sustain.
- • GTS suspension system isolates the tom, reducing unwanted shell resonance.
CONS
- • Lacquer finish can be susceptible to chipping with aggressive playing.
- • Maple construction leans towards warmer tones, less suited for very bright styles.
- • The included Evans head is decent, but a premium head unlocks full potential.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 474745
$461
#4
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple PB
Custom
Rock
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Renown Maple tom delivers that classic Gretsch warmth and musicality without the premium price tag. The maple shell really sings, and the GTS mounting system keeps things tight and controlled. It's a fantastic addition for drummers seeking a versatile, well-built tom for everything from jazz to rock.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tones.
- • 30° bearing edge promotes excellent head coupling and responsiveness.
- • Gretsch Silver Sealer interior adds brightness and sustain.
- • GTS suspension system minimizes shell vibration for controlled overtones.
CONS
- • Piano Black lacquer can be a fingerprint magnet and requires careful maintenance.
- • Renown series, while excellent, sits below Gretsch’s top-tier offerings.
- • Evans heads are decent stock options, but upgrading can unlock more sonic potential.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 455156
$461
#5
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple VP
Unique Sound
Alternative Setup
Rock
Key Feature:
This 13-inch Renown Maple tom is a real sweet spot for drummers seeking a vintage-inspired tone without the premium price tag. The maple shell and Gretsch’s signature bearing edge provide a warm, musical voice that sits beautifully in a mix – perfect for classic rock, blues, and even jazz. It’s a great upgrade for those moving beyond entry-level drums.
PROS
- • 7-ply maple construction delivers warm, resonant, and focused tones.
- • 30° bearing edge facilitates tuning flexibility and low-frequency response.
- • Gretsch’s Silver Sealer interior finish enhances shell resonance and projection.
- • GTS suspension system minimizes unwanted overtones and maximizes shell vibration.
CONS
- • Vintage Pearl VP finish can be prone to minor cosmetic imperfections.
- • The Renown series, while excellent, isn’t the absolute top-tier Gretsch offering.
- • Evans heads, while decent, might be swapped for preferred aftermarket options.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 463672
$461
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Pearl Crystal Beat 13"x09" Tom #730
by
Pearl
Rock
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Crystal Beat tom is a modern take on a classic Pearl sound. The acrylic shell provides a beautiful, shimmering tone that cuts through a mix, perfect for players seeking a distinctive, articulate voice in their kit—especially great for studio work or situations where you need a focused, cutting tom sound.
PROS
- • Seamless acrylic shell delivers a uniquely resonant, shimmering tone
- • Optimount system minimizes interference, maximizes shell vibration
- • Triple-flanged hoops offer enhanced attack and sustain
- • 45° bearing edge promotes a warmer, more controlled sound
CONS
- • Acrylic shells are prone to scratching and require careful handling
- • The ultra-clear finish shows every imperfection in the drumhead
- • Crystal Beat series can be a bit bright, requiring careful dampening
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 387273
$459
#7
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Sonor SQ1 13"x09" Tom Tom SCB
by
Sonor
Recording
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
The SQ1 13” tom delivers a surprisingly good punch for its price point. The birch shell provides a warm, musical tone, and the Sonor build quality is evident. This is a great option for gigging drummers or those building a kit on a budget who want a reliable, German-made tom.
PROS
- • European birch delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent resonance.
- • CLTF construction minimizes shell stress, improving tuning stability.
- • Sonor's OSM design optimizes shell vibration for a balanced sound.
- • Tunesafe locks prevent accidental tuning changes, a real pro feature.
CONS
- • SCB finish, while attractive, can be prone to stick marks and fingerprints.
- • SQ1 series represents a more entry-level Sonor offering, impacting overall refinement.
- • 13x9” size can be limiting for drummers needing a wider range of tom sounds.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 536523
$637
#8
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom BRF
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Jazz
Custom
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft 13" tom delivers a surprisingly rich sound for its price point. The maple/walnut blend gives it a warmth you don't typically find in entry-level drums, and the Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing. It's a fantastic upgrade for gigging drummers or anyone wanting a distinctive tom without spending a fortune.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- • BRF finish offers a unique aesthetic without sacrificing shell integrity.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes sustain.
- • Remo heads provide a responsive and immediately playable feel.
CONS
- • Walnut content likely limited, impacting the overall tonal complexity.
- • Lacquer finish can be prone to chipping with aggressive playing.
- • Satin chrome hardware, while attractive, might show wear faster.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523890
$182
#9
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT -CR
by
Yamaha
Custom
Alternative Setup
Rock
Key Feature:
This Stage Custom 13x9 tom is a solid choice for drummers looking for a warm, articulate sound without spending a fortune. The birch shell and Yess mount really let it sing, making it ideal for recording or adding some punch to a live kit—especially great for rock, pop, and lighter jazz applications.
PROS
- • 100% birch shell delivers a focused, warm tone with good resonance.
- • Yess mounting system minimizes damping for a lively, responsive sound.
- • Cranberry Red finish offers a distinctive, professional aesthetic.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability and a relatively lightweight feel.
CONS
- • Lacquered finish can be prone to stick marks and fingerprints.
- • Stage Custom series is a mid-range option; hardware is basic.
- • 13x9 is a smaller tom; lacks the deep thump of larger sizes.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 404519
$186
#10
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Pearl 13"x09" Export TT Sat. Scarlet
by
Pearl
Rock
Jazz
Custom
Key Feature:
The Pearl Export 13" tom is a reliable, budget-friendly option for drummers building their first kit or seeking a versatile auxiliary percussion voice. The warm tone cuts nicely without being overly bright, making it great for rock, pop, and even some lighter jazz applications. It's a solid choice for players prioritizing value and a decent sound.
PROS
- • 6-ply poplar shell delivers a warm, resonant tone suitable for various genres.
- • Satin Scarlet wrap finish provides a visually appealing and durable aesthetic.
- • Chrome-plated hardware offers a robust feel and reliable performance.
- • Export series represents a solid value proposition for beginner to intermediate drummers.
CONS
- • Poplar shells, while warm, lack the projection of maple or birch alternatives.
- • Basic hoops might benefit from an upgrade for enhanced tuning stability.
- • Limited shell sizes within the Export line restrict kit customization options.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 615408
$160
#11
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Pearl 13"x09" Export TT M. Amethyst
by
Pearl
Custom
Recording
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Pearl Export tom is a great entry-level option, offering a surprisingly full tone for the price. It’s perfect for beginner to intermediate drummers building a kit or needing a versatile, affordable tom to fill out their sound. The unique finish is a nice bonus, too.
PROS
- • The 6-ply poplar shell delivers a surprisingly warm, resonant low-end tone.
- • Metallic Amethyst finish offers a unique, eye-catching aesthetic, standing out from typical drum kits.
- • Chrome hardware provides a robust, reliable feel and a classic visual appeal.
- • Export series offers excellent value; a solid tom for budget-conscious drummers.
CONS
- • Poplar shells, while warm, lack the projection and brightness of maple or birch.
- • The 7.5mm shell thickness can feel a bit 'boomy' without proper dampening.
- • Chrome hardware, while durable, isn't as refined as higher-end finishes.
⭐
4.3/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 615406
$160
#12
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT -NW
by
Yamaha
Jazz
Rock
Custom
Key Feature:
This Stage Custom 13 in tom is a solid choice for drummers wanting a warm, focused sound without spending a fortune. It’s a great addition to a kit needing a mid-range voice, particularly well-suited for rock, pop, and studio recording where clarity is key. The YESS mount really does make a difference in how the tom resonates.
PROS
- • 100% birch construction delivers a warm, focused, and resonant tone.
- • YESS tom mount system minimizes unwanted overtones and maximizes sustain.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability with a responsive, articulate feel.
- • High-gloss lacquer finish provides a professional look and protects the wood.
CONS
- • Natural wood finish can show fingerprints and require more careful maintenance.
- • Stage Custom series is a mid-range option; lacks the premium hardware of higher-end Yamahas.
- • 13 in size is less versatile than a 14 or 16 in tom for broader musical styles.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 375800
$186
#13
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT -RBL
by
Yamaha
Jazz
Recording
Custom
Key Feature:
The Yamaha Stage Custom 13x9 is a solid choice for drummers looking for a birch tom with a clear, articulate voice. It’s a great addition to existing kits or a foundation for a smaller, focused setup—perfect for gigging musicians or those wanting a versatile, bright tom sound without breaking the bank.
PROS
- • 100% birch shell delivers a focused, resonant tone with good projection.
- • Yess mounting system minimizes dampening, preserving natural tom voice.
- • Raven Black finish offers a striking, professional aesthetic.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability with a responsive feel.
CONS
- • Lacquered finish can be susceptible to stick marks and fingerprints.
- • Stage Custom series is a mid-range offering; hardware is functional, not premium.
- • 13x9 size is somewhat limited in versatility; may lack low-end thump.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 410100
$186
#14
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SBB
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Custom
Rock
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 tom is a real sweet spot – a great balance of tone, looks, and affordability. The maple/walnut blend gives it a warm, controlled resonance that cuts through a mix nicely. It's perfect for gigging drummers or home recordists wanting a premium sound without the premium price tag.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Satin Black to Vivid Blue fade offers a striking, professional aesthetic.
- • Remo heads provide a responsive feel and immediately usable sound.
CONS
- • Walnut content might limit versatility for very low-tuned, extremely deep tones.
- • Matte lacquer finish requires diligent care to prevent smudging and scratches.
- • Hardware, while chromed, may not be as robust as higher-end offerings.
⭐
4.5/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543479
$186
#15
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT - MSG
by
Yamaha
Jazz
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This Stage Custom tom is a solid choice for gigging musicians or home recordists needing a well-balanced tom sound. The birch construction gives it a crisp, articulate tone that sits nicely in a mix. It's a great value, offering professional-level quality at a more accessible price point – perfect for expanding a kit or building a new one.
PROS
- • Birch shell delivers a focused, resonant tone with good attack.
- • Yess mounting system minimizes dampening for a more vibrant sound.
- • Matte Surf Green finish looks sharp and resists fingerprints well.
- • 6-ply construction provides a balance of strength and responsiveness.
CONS
- • The thinner shell might not hold up to extremely aggressive playing.
- • Stock hoops are functional but not premium-grade; an upgrade is possible.
- • MSG color might be too bold for some drummers' aesthetic preferences.
⭐
4.4/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 568160
$186
How to Choose the Best 13" Toms
1
Playability
For a beginner, a responsive tom is everything. You want something that reacts to your touch - a good balance between sustain and quick decay. Too much sustain and you're fighting the sound; too little and it's just...there. This is about developing dynamics.
2
Shell Material & Thickness
Birch is a common choice - it's versatile and delivers a warm, balanced tone. Maple can be a bit more focused and articulate, but can also be a bit 'woody' for some tastes. Lighter shells are generally easier to control for beginners, but don't go so thin they sound like cardboard.
3
Bearing Edges
These are crucial for the initial attack and overall tone. Rounded bearing edges tend to produce a warmer, more resonant sound, while sharper edges give a more focused, defined attack. As a beginner, rounded edges are generally more forgiving.
4
Hardware & Mounting
Sturdy hardware is a must. Wobbly legs and a flimsy mounting system will kill your feel and make tuning a nightmare. Look for double-braced legs and well-built mounting brackets - cheap hardware is the first place manufacturers cut corners.
5
Overall Tone & Projection
You want a tom that cuts through a band rehearsal without being harsh. That means a good blend of low-end thump and a clear, defined pitch. Too much low-end muddies the mix; too much high-end gets ice-picky and fatiguing.
Buying Guide
Don't chase the 'expensive' label. A well-chosen, mid-range 13" tom from a reputable brand will almost always outperform a top-end tom from a budget manufacturer. Pay attention to the hardware - that's where a lot of cheap kits fall apart. And honestly, spend a little extra on getting them properly tuned - it'll make a bigger difference than the shell material itself.
Our Methodology
We're not relying on marketing jargon here. We've spent years playing everything from budget kits to pro-level gear, and that's what informs our recommendations. We've A/B'd these toms against each other in rehearsal rooms and recording sessions, focusing on how they respond to different playing styles and how they sit in a mix. It's about real-world performance, not spec sheets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Rack toms are mounted above the bass drum, often on angled brackets. Floor toms sit on legs and generally have a deeper, more resonant tone. A 13" can be either, but rack toms are more common at this size.
As a beginner, a pre-made kit is usually the most economical way to get started. Buying individual toms is great for customization, but it's a rabbit hole you don't need to dive down yet.
Warm doesn't mean muffled. It means the tone has a good balance across the frequencies - a full low-end, a clear fundamental pitch, and a pleasant overtone series without being harsh or brittle. It's a tone that sits well in a mix.
Massively important. A poorly tuned expensive tom will sound worse than a well-tuned budget tom. Learn the basics of drum tuning - it's a skill that will serve you for life.
Technically, yes, but it won't be ideal. The shell's depth and resonance will make it sound muddy and lacking in snap. Snare drums are designed with specific bearing edges and snare mechanisms for a distinct sound.
