Best 13" Toms Under $500 2026
Alright, so you're in the market for a 13" tom and you're trying to keep things reasonable - smart move. That little tom can really fill out your kit's voice, especially if you're aiming for a Bonham-esque low-end thump or a more articulate, punchy mid-range. Finding a good one under $500 requires a bit of digging, but it's definitely doable. Let's break down what's out there and what to expect.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 13" toms in 2026 are Pearl Crystal Beat 13"x09" Tom #730 (top pick), Gretsch Drums 13"x09" TT Renown Maple SOP for tighter budgets, and DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SBB for pros — selected from 15 options across 4 brands, priced $170–$460, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
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
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 387273
$459
#2
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
3.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 575183
$428
#3
⭐
2.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
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.
⭐
2.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543479
$186
#4
⭐
2.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
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.
⭐
2.5/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523890
$182
#5
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
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.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 455156
$461
#6
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 463672
$461
#7
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
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.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 474745
$461
#8
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SBR
by
DrumCraft
Custom
Rock
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft 13” tom delivers a surprisingly rich and musical voice thanks to the maple/walnut combination. The Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing, and the fade finish is a cool touch. It's a great option for drummers looking for a quality tom without the premium-priced tag – especially good for rock, pop, and studio work.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers a warm, focused, and articulate tom tone.
- • Zero Gravity mounting system minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Satin Black to Red Fade finish is visually striking and subtly refined.
- • Pre-installed Remo heads offer a solid, responsive playing feel right out of the box.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion can make the shell slightly heavier than all-maple alternatives.
- • Matte finish may require more frequent cleaning to avoid fingerprints and smudges.
- • SBR (Satin Black to Red Fade) color option limits versatility for some aesthetics.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 543477
$175
#9
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SWB
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Custom
Alternative Setup
Key Feature:
The DrumCraft Series 6 13” tom delivers a surprisingly rich and musical tone for the price. The maple/walnut blend gives it a warmth you wouldn't expect, and the Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing. This is a great option for drummers looking to upgrade their kit with a quality tom without breaking the bank, especially those playing rock, pop, or lighter jazz.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers a warm, resonant, and focused tone.
- • Satin chrome hardware provides a refined look and smooth operation.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Remo heads offer a quality playing experience straight out of the box.
CONS
- • Scottish White Burst finish may show fingerprints and require careful maintenance.
- • 6-ply construction might lack the extreme low-end thump of thicker shells.
- • Hardware, while good, isn’t quite at the level of premium brands.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523888
$171
#10
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SN
by
DrumCraft
Recording
Custom
Jazz
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 tom delivers a really pleasing, focused sound – not overly dry, but not booming either. It's a great option for drummers looking for a solid, well-built tom without the premium price tag, especially suited for rock, pop, and even some jazz applications. The Zero Gravity mount is a nice touch too, letting the wood really sing.
PROS
- • Maple/Walnut shell delivers a warm, focused tone with excellent resonance.
- • Zero Gravity mounting system minimizes dampening and maximizes sustain.
- • Satin natural matte finish looks classy and resists fingerprints well.
- • Comes pre-equipped with Remo heads – a solid starting point for any drummer.
CONS
- • Maple/Walnut construction might be slightly darker than pure maple for some tastes.
- • Satin chrome hardware, while attractive, can show fingerprints more easily.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to deeper toms for extreme genres.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523886
$186
#11
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom SB
by
DrumCraft
Jazz
Rock
Unique Sound
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft 13" tom is a real sweet spot – a well-built, versatile drum that delivers a warm, resonant tone without costing a fortune. It's perfect for gigging drummers or studio players needing a reliable, good-sounding tom without breaking the bank. The maple/walnut blend gives it a unique character that sits nicely in a mix.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Satin black finish looks sharp and resists fingerprints nicely.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • Remo heads provide a solid, responsive playing feel right out of the box.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion might slightly darken the overall tone for some preferences.
- • Satin black finish can be a fingerprint magnet, requiring occasional cleaning.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a bit basic compared to higher-end options.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523887
$186
#12
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Yamaha Stage Custom 13"x09" TT -HA
by
Yamaha
Unique Sound
Recording
Rock
Key Feature:
This Stage Custom 13x9 tom is a solid choice for drummers seeking a warm, articulate voice without breaking the bank. It's a fantastic addition to a Stage Custom kit or a great standalone tom for a smaller setup, particularly suited for genres like pop, rock, and lighter jazz where a defined, focused tom sound is key.
PROS
- • 100% birch shell delivers a focused, warm tone with good resonance.
- • YESS mounting system minimizes dampening, preserving natural tom voice.
- • 6-ply construction balances durability and sonic responsiveness.
- • Honey Amber finish offers a classic aesthetic, visually appealing stage presence.
CONS
- • High-gloss lacquer can be a fingerprint magnet and require diligent cleaning.
- • Stage Custom series is a mid-range option; lacks the premium hardware of higher lines.
- • 13x9” is a relatively small tom; might not offer the deepest, lowest fundamental.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 362392
$186
#13
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
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.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 375800
$186
#14
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
DrumCraft Series 6 13"x09" Tom Tom BP
by
DrumCraft
Custom
Alternative Setup
Jazz
Key Feature:
This DrumCraft Series 6 tom is a solid choice if you're after a warm, resonant sound without spending a fortune. The maple/walnut construction gives it a unique character that sits nicely in a mix, and the Zero Gravity mount really lets it sing. It's perfect for gigging musicians and home recordists who want a professional feel and tone.
PROS
- • Maple/walnut shell blend delivers warm, focused tone with surprising projection.
- • Zero Gravity mounting minimizes dampening and maximizes resonance.
- • High-gloss lacquer finish looks stunning and offers excellent durability.
- • Pre-mounted Remo heads offer a respectable starting point for tuning.
CONS
- • Walnut inclusion slightly limits versatility compared to all-maple shells.
- • Black to Purple Sparkle finish might be polarizing for some drummers.
- • Hardware, while functional, feels a touch basic for the price point.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 523882
$182
#15
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
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.
⭐
2.3/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
6/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 568160
$186
How to Choose the Best 13" Toms
1
Shell Material
Expect poplar, mahogany, or birch blends in this price range. Poplar tends to be warmer, mahogany a bit more focused, and birch brighter - each influencing sustain and overall character. Birch will generally give you the most 'cutting' quality.
2
Bearing Edge
This is huge. A sharp, consistent bearing edge will translate to a more focused, resonant tone. Many budget toms have rough edges - something to listen for and potentially address yourself later.
3
Hardware Quality
Don't expect buttery-smooth hardware. Lug placement and stability are more important than fancy features. Look for sturdy mounting points that won't wobble under a decent stick attack.
4
Finish & Resonant Frequency
The finish impacts the shell's resonance. A thinner, more open-grained finish will let the wood breathe more. Lower resonant frequencies generally mean more 'boom' and warmth, while higher frequencies give you more 'crack' and articulation.
5
Overall Dynamics
Can the tom respond to subtle stick strokes or does it just blast at a single volume? A good tom should offer a dynamic range - quiet ghost notes to powerful accents - without sounding muffled.
Buying Guide
At this price point, you're trading something. Expect thinner shells, simpler hardware, and potentially a less refined finish. Don't chase 'bright, sparkly clean' - you're more likely to get a thin, brittle tone. Focus on finding a tom with a pleasing fundamental tone and decent sustain that can be shaped with muffling. If the bearing edge is rough, factor in the cost of having it professionally smoothed.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page ranks 15 13" toms from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely, but mic placement will be key. You'll want to experiment to find the sweet spot that minimizes any unwanted resonance or boxiness. A good gate can help tame any lingering sustain.
Not always. Many budget toms prioritize articulation over low-end thump. It's more about finding a tom with a balanced tone that sits well in a mix. EQ can help compensate.
Hybrid shells are often a way to save money while trying to mimic the tonal qualities of more expensive woods. They're not inherently bad, but be prepared for a less consistent sound across the drum. Listen carefully.
If you're just looking for a single tom to fill a gap in your existing kit, a single tom is the way to go. Buying a full kit can sometimes offer better value overall, but make sure the other drums are also decent quality.
Used toms can be a goldmine! You can often find higher-end models within your budget. Just be sure to inspect the shell for any cracks or damage and check the hardware for wear and tear.
