The 11 Best Drum Machines For All Budgets & Styles (2024)

Ahh, drum machines… one of my absolute favs. 

They’re powerful, versatile, and super inspiring tools that can instantly transform your tracks in ways you never thought possible.

They have the ability to create everything from hard-hitting kicks to shimmering hi-hats and intricate, evolving rhythms that bring your beats to life. 

Plus, they come packed with unique features, performance controls, and sound design options that can seriously bring your beats to the next level.

In the world of music production, knowing about the best drum machines can help you choose the right gear that fits your style, workflow, and creative needs. 

That’s exactly why we’re breaking down the best options in the game, all containing standout features and functions, like:

• Hybrid analog and digital sound engines ✓
• Onboard sequencers with advanced step capabilities ✓
• Real-time performance effects like stutter, roll, and fill ✓
• Hands-on controls for tweaking sound parameters live ✓
• USB and MIDI connectivity for seamless integration ✓
• Built-in speakers and battery options for portability ✓
• Customizable sample import and sound design tools ✓
• Built-in effects like reverb, delay, and compression ✓
• Expandable storage for saving kits and patterns ✓
• Sync capabilities with external gear and modular setups ✓
• Unique sound shaping tools like analog filters and FM synthesis ✓
• Much more ✓

After this article, you’ll know absolutely everything about the best drum machines in the music production game today.

Unlike some other articles that just skim the surface, we’re breaking down all of the standout features, functions, and capabilities in detail 一 not just a few sentences. 

This way, you can choose the best fit for you and create your own signature sounds.

Plus, ensure your tracks are always cutting-edge, your grooves are dynamic, and your drum sounds are unmistakably yours.

So, let’s dive right into the best drum machines…

#1. Akai MPC Live II ($1,299)

The Akai MPC Live II is a game-changing standalone drum machine, sampler, and sequencer, perfect for producers who need a versatile, portable setup. 

This hardware drum machine includes 16 full-size, velocity-sensitive RGB pads that offer precise control, and its 7-inch multi-touch display makes navigation and editing very intuitive. 

One of its most impressive additions to the Akai MPC Live II is the built-in stereo monitors, which provide surprisingly solid sound quality.

Super decent low-end and clear highs.

It’s perfect for sketching beats on the go without needing external speakers or headphones. 

The MPC Live II has 2 GB of RAM and 16 GB of onboard storage, expandable via an internal SATA slot for SSDs, which gives you ample space for samples and projects. 

It comes with 10 GB of pre-installed content, including exclusive drum kits and drum samples from renowned producers like Decap and Araab Muzik. 

Connectivity is a strong point with: 

• Dual MIDI In and Out ports
• Four TRS CV/Gate jacks (providing eight outputs)
• Three stereo TRS outputs
• RCA inputs
• USB 3.0
• Wireless options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Also, it offers Ableton Link integration that enables smooth synchronization with Ableton Live, turning the MPC Live II into a powerful clip launcher for live performances. 

With its enhanced DrumSynth plugin, you can choose from nine different drum types, including kick, snare, hi-hat, and toms.

Each one offers multiple kit styles (e.g., electronic kit) for deep sound customization that can help your beats blow the competition out of the water.

Needless to say, when it comes to the best drum machines around, the Akai MPC Live II is top of our list… and for good reason.

I personally own it myself, and I can tell you that it’s top-notch, no doubts about it.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Built-in stereo monitors
• Rechargeable lithium-ion battery 
• 16 full-size RGB pads
• Advanced connectivity
• 7-inch multi-touch display
• 16 GB onboard storage
• Drum Synth plugin
• One of the best drum machines in the game

#2. Roland TR-8S ($749)

The Roland TR-8S is a powerhouse drum machine that combines the legendary sounds of Roland’s classic TR series with modern enhancements like: 

• Sample import
• Advanced effects
• Expanded sequencing options

It comes with over 300 onboard sounds, including drum sounds from the 808, 909, and 707, which are legendary. 

As well as an impressive range of kicks, snares, hi-hats, toms, cymbals, and percussion tones, of course.

The Roland TR-8S also allows you to import your own samples via SD card, supporting both mono and stereo WAV and AIFF formats.

It gives you up to 600 seconds of sampling time to create hybrid kits.

Each of its 11 instrument tracks has individual controls 一 including volume faders, tuning, decay, and assignable CTRL rotaries that can be linked to any sound parameters.

So, if we’re talking sound design, it’s highly customizable​.

The Roland TR-8S includes eight variations per pattern, which can be chained in any combination for complex rhythms and dynamic live performances​.

 

Plus, its extensive built-in effects section includes 13 instrument effects, six reverb types, four delay options, and 19 master effects.

This includes compressors, drive, bitcrushing, and modulation effects, so you can literally tweak your drum sounds to have the most depth and character around.

The Roland TR-8S has six assignable outputs, USB for MIDI and audio, and an additional mini-jack trigger out for external hardware integration​. 

It also serves as a full multi-channel audio and MIDI interface, so it’s perfect for both studio and stage use, which definitely comes in handy.

NOTE: You can seamlessly integrate it into a digital audio workstation or other Roland AIRA Link gear, which is also awesome.

For these reasons and so many more, the Roland TR-8S is, without a doubt, one of the best drum machines around.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Over 300 onboard sounds
• Samples import via SD card with 600 seconds of total sampling time.
• Eight variations per pattern
• Dynamic chaining for creating complex rhythms.
• Extensive built-in effects section with 13 instrument effects, multiple reverb and delay types, and 19 master effects
• Six assignable outputs and a mini-jack trigger
• Full multi-channel audio and MIDI interface with USB connectivity
• Dedicated trigger output and stereo audio inputs
• One of the best drum machines in the game

#3. Elektron Analog Rytm MkII ($1,999)

The Elektron Analog Rytm MkII is an advanced drum machine that combines the warmth of analog synthesis with the flexibility of digital sample playback.

This makes one of the most powerful beat-making machines on the market.

This 12-track, 8-voice analog drum computer allows each drum track to host unique “machines,” which are specialized synth engines designed to produce specific drum sounds like kicks, snares, hi-hats, and toms.

You’ll have up to nine machine options per pad​.

The MkII also introduces direct sampling capabilities via balanced audio inputs so you can: 

• Record your own samples straight into the unit
• Edit them with intuitive controls
• Use them in your beats instantly

This wasn’t a feature in any of the previous models​, plus the pads are a huge improvement as they’re highly responsive and designed for dynamic finger drumming.

The renowned Elektron sequencer allows parameter locks, conditional trigs, and sound locks, so you can knock out complex drum patterns all day long.

When it comes to connectivity, it features CV/Gate inputs and outputs for modular synth integration, MIDI In/Out/Thru, and USB.

This supports Elektron’s Overbridge software for seamless DAW integration​ as well.

Plus, the Analog Rytm MkII’s analog filters, overdrive, and compression options provide deep sound sculpting capabilities which is always great for your drum sounds.

With features like a dedicated Chromatic Mode for playing melodic lines, multiple effects per track, and a user-friendly performance interface, the Rytm MkII goes beyond traditional drum machine functionality…

It’s an all-in-one tool for sound design, sequencing, and playing live.

Honestly, even though it might not be as popular as, let’s say, the Akai MPC Live II, it certainly can hold its own as one of the best drum machines around (believe me).

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Eight-voice analog drum synthesis combined with digital sample playback for hybrid instrument sound design.
• Direct sampling via balanced audio inputs
• Easy-to-use sampling controls
• Highly responsive pads
• Advanced sequencer with parameter locks, conditional trigs & sound locks
• Extensive connectivity
• Analog filters, overdrive, and compression
• Dedicated Chromatic Mode for melodic performance on pads (this song mode expands its versatility beyond drums)
• One of the best drum machines in the game

#4. Elektron Digitakt II ($999)

The Elektron Digitakt is a highly versatile digital drum machine and sampler that excels in both studio/live settings, offering eight audio and eight MIDI tracks. 

It features a compact design and a powerful sequencer with up to 64 steps per pattern, and a unique parameter lock functionality.

This allows you to automate nearly every aspect of sound manipulation 一 making your drum patterns dynamic, evolving, and straight up legendary.

The Digitakt comes equipped with a 1GB internal +Drive storage, so users can load up to 30 minutes of stereo samples per project across over 1,000 sample slots.

NOTE: This can be imported via Elektron’s Transfer app and managed within the device’s intuitive interface. 

While Digitakt samples in mono, the 12-bit engine provides a gritty, characterful sound, enhanced by effects like reverb, delay, and overdrive that can add depth to your beats. 

Its standout feature (Conditional Locks) allows you to set rules for when a sound plays, creating complex rhythmic variations to keep your drum patterns epic and unpredictable. 

This drum machine also features MIDI learn so it’s easy to connect and control external hardware synths and modules.

Despite lacking stereo sampling directly, it has powerful modulation options, which makes it perfect for advanced sound design, like:

• 3 LFOs per track
• Swappable filters
• Envelope controls

With a user-friendly interface, solid build, and solid sound capabilities, the Elektron Digitakt remains one of the best drum machines around.

This is especially true if you’re looking for a flexible, inspiring groovebox that really allows you to dive deep into advanced music production and sound design.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• 1GB internal +Drive storage; samples in mono.
• Parameter locks for dynamic sound manipulation.
• Conditional Locks for evolving rhythms.
• Mono sampling with 12-bit sound engine.
• MIDI learn for external gear integration
• Three LFOs per drum track for deep modulation.
• Compact and performance-friendly design.
• One of the best digital drum machines in the game.

#5. Arturia DrumBrute Impact ($299)

The Arturia DrumBrute Impact is a compact analog drum machine offering 10 distinct drum voices, including a powerful FM Drum module that is out of this world.

This unique drum machine features a 64-step sequencer with polyrhythmic capabilities.

Meaning, you can play around with different track lengths and time signatures that create shifting, non-repetitive patterns (perfect for electronic music and complex rhythms). 

Its standout “Color” mode enhances each sound, adding effects like: 

• Pitch alteration
• Extra distortion on your kick drum
• Harmonic changes on hi-hats

All of which can be triggered per step in the sequencer for dynamic performance control over your songs.

The Arturia DrumBrute Impact also includes dedicated controls for every sound 一 ensuring a hands-on experience with no sub-menus, which is great.

Plus, the built-in output distortion adds warmth and grit to flawlessly glue your drum sounds together, while the sequencer’s Roller and Looper modes introduce live beat repeats for out-of-the-box fills and breakdowns. 

Connectivity options include USB, MIDI, clock sync, and four individual outputs for kick, snares, hi-hats, and the FM drum.

So, advanced multi-tracking and integration into any setup is easy as pie.

The sequencer’s performance features also include swing, randomness, and step repeats for that organic feel, which sets it apart from more rigid drum machines. 

With its solid build, punchy analog sound, and awesome performance features, the DrumBrute Impact delivers a full analog experience at a budget-friendly price.

This makes it one of the best drum machines for any occasion.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• 10 distinct analog drum voices.
• FM Drum with customizable modulation.
• Color mode for sound variation.
• 64-step sequencer with polyrhythm capabilities.
• Built-in distortion for added grit.
• USB, MIDI for your MIDI controller, and multiple sync options.
• Individual outputs for key instruments.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#6. Roland TR-6S ($399)

The Roland TR-6S is a compact six-track drum machine that packs the powerful ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) modeling engine found in the larger TR-8S.

It delivers iconic sounds from legendary drum machines like the 808, 909, 707, and 606 all within a portable design, which is awesome.

It offers over 300 preset samples and allows for custom sample import via an SD card, supporting WAV and AIFF formats, which gives you up to 600 seconds of total sampling time.

The TR-6S also features an FM sound engine which provides unique and complex percussive tones that can be shaped with adjustable: 

• Decay
• Tuning
• Morph parameters

So you can add a real modern twist to your beats, which is great.

Its sequencer supports up to 128 user patterns, with each pattern offering eight variations and two programmable fills.

You’ll have plenty of room for creativity and performance flexibility. 

The TR-6S doubles as a USB audio/MIDI interface, enabling you to stream individual tracks and the master output directly to your DAW, making it ideal for hybrid setups. 

Its effects section is pretty impressive as well, featuring 19 types of master effects, including compressors, EQs, reverbs, delays, and modulation effects.

Plus the battery-powered option (using four AA batteries) makes it a perfect companion for mobile production, with like 4-5 hours of continuous use under heavy conditions​. 

Despite its small size, the TR-6S retains many of the TR-8S’s capabilities 一 including a dedicated control knob for real-time manipulation of sound parameters.

It’s one of the best drum machines with a hands-on experience that’s perfect for live performances and studio sessions​ which, let’s be honest, is what you’d expect from a Roland drum machine.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Six-track version of the TR-8S.
• ACB modeling of classic 808, 909, 707, and 606 sounds.
• FM engine for unique percussive tones.
• USB audio/MIDI interface.
• 19 master effects including reverb, delay, and EQ.
• Compact, portable, and battery-powered.
• SD card support for custom user samples.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#7. Behringer RD-8 ($319)

The Behringer RD-8 is a modern analog recreation of the classic Roland TR-808 that gives you a faithful (yet expanded) approach to the iconic drum sounds that shaped electronic music. 

The RD-8 features 16 distinct drum sounds, including authentic recreations of the 808’s kick drum, snare, and hi-hats.

But the real magic is its enhanced modern additions like adjustable pitch and tuning.

Plus, an “Offset” control for the clap, which adds even more versatility and dynamic sound shaping to help your own beats havee that unique edge.

The 64-step sequencer allows you to create different patterns with polymeter capabilities, and each drum pattern can be up to four bars long.

Unique performance features include: 

• Step Repeat and Note Repeat for real-time fills and breakdowns
• Wave Designer and analog filter for further control over transients/tone

With them, you can add unmatched punch, warmth, or grit to your drum sounds​. 

You’ll also have individual outputs for each drum sound, MIDI In/Out, USB MIDI, and three trigger outputs.

This makes it an excellent choice for integration with other gear or modular setups​. 

The RD-8 also includes performance controls like mute and solo, which are easily accessible during live play, so it’s a great live instrument.

NOTE: Behringer’s decision to use a recreated version of the BA662 VCA chip (which closely mirrors the original circuitry of the 808) ensures that the RD-8 captures the analog warmth and punch of the classic machine while also delivering a unique character of its own​. 

At a fraction of the price of an original 808, the RD-8 provides vintage drum machine charm with modern features, making it one of the best drum machines available today​.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• 16 authentic analog drum sounds.
• 64-step sequencer with polymeter capabilities.
• Step Repeat and Note Repeat functions.
• Wave Designer and analog filter, which are great fun.
• Individual outputs for each drum sound.
• MIDI, USB MIDI, and trigger outputs.
• Performance controls like mute and solo.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#8. Korg Volca Drum ($159)

The Korg Volca Drum is a digital percussion synthesizer that stands out with its unique dual-layer, six-part DSP engine.

Each of its six parts can have two layers of sound, which can be edited individually or together for complex sound design. 

Instead of typical PCM samples, it uses a DSP-powered analog modeling approach 一 giving you five oscillator waveforms like sine and sawtooth waves.

All combined with various modulation and envelope options, which makes it perfect for creating unique drum sounds that go way beyond traditional drums​. 

One of my favorite features about Korg Volca Drum is the Waveguide Resonator, which is a physical modeling effect that simulates resonances like tubes or strings.

It adds a sick timbral depth to your beats and lets you create pretty much anything from metallic reverbs to flanging effects​. 

Plus, its 16-step sequencer includes advanced features like: 

• Motion sequencing
• Randomization functions
• Slice

They allow you to add drum rolls and stutter effects to individual steps (perfect for trap beats and glitchy percussion)​. 

It also includes accent and choke functions with 16 levels of dynamics, which provides precise control over the groove and interplay of sounds.

Plus, the custom LCD display provides detailed graphical feedback, making it easier to understand complex settings at a glance 一 a first for the Volca series​. 

NOTE: Connectivity options include MIDI-in and sync jacks for seamless integration with other Volca and Korg gear, or as a versatile sound module in a DAW setup. 

At its insanely low price point, the Korg Volca Drum delivers unparalleled flexibility and creative potential.

It’s one of those must-try cheaper best drum machines for any producer looking to add a unique edge to any drum sound​. 

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Dual-layer, six-part DSP engine.
• DSP-powered analog modeling sound design.
• Unique Waveguide Resonator effect.
• Advanced 16-step sequencer with motion sequencing.
• Custom LCD display for easy navigation.
• Accent and choke functions for dynamic control.
• MIDI and sync connectivity for versatile setups.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#9. Roland TR-08 ($411)

The Roland TR-08 is a modern recreation of the iconic TR-808, combining classic sounds of the analog realm with new digital enhancements.

This drum machine uses Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology to flawlessly replicate the original 808’s unique character.

Packed with rich, vibrant drum sounds that remain faithful to the legendary hardware​. 

It features a 16-step sequencer with 16 sub-steps per step so you can create detailed snare fills and intricate hi-hats, perfect for electronic music and hip-hop beats. 

The Roland TR-08 also offers additional sound sculpting options like tuning, decay, and gain adjustments, which can be applied to various drum sounds such as kicks, snares, and hi-hats.

It adds modern versatility to the classic tones in a super cool way.

This epic drum machine can also function as a 12-in/2-out USB audio interface 一 streaming individual drum tracks directly to your DAW.

So, it’s highly functional for both studio use and live performance setups​. 

Portability is a key feature of the Roland TR-08… It’s battery-powered, has a built-in speaker, and is rugged enough for live gigs.

The TR-08 includes MIDI In/Out and USB for seamless integration with other hardware, and a trigger out option lets you synchronize with modular setups or other Roland gear. 

With its authentic look, sound, and compact build, the Roland TR-08 brings the timeless 808 vibe to a new generation of producers (like us) at a more accessible price. 

Whether in the studio or on the go, the Roland TR-08 offers the classic 808 experience with the flexibility of modern enhancements, making it one of the best drum machines.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology for authentic 808 sounds.
• 16-step sequencer with 16 sub-steps.
• Adjustable tuning, decay, and gain controls.
• USB audio interface with 12 inputs and 2 outputs.
• On-board speaker and battery power for portability.
• MIDI and USB connectivity for integration with other gear.
• Compact, rugged design perfect for live performance.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#10. Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm ($99)

The Teenage Engineering PO-12 Rhythm is a little different from our other best drum machines on the list, as you can clearly see above.

It’s a super compact, battery-powered drum machine with 16 synthesized and sampled drum sounds, fitting in the palm of your hand.

It features a 16-step sequencer that allows you to chain up to 16 patterns, creating larger tracks, while its parameter locks enable real-time adjustments to sound parameters.

The PO-12 offers 16 punch-in effects, including bit crushers, delays, and stutters, which can be applied on the fly to create interesting fills and variations.

Its built-in LCD display and integrated speaker make it a completely standalone unit, perfect for on-the-go beat-making.

NOTE: It can also sync with other Pocket Operators or external gear using its 3.5mm audio in and out jacks​, so keep that in mind as well.

The PO-12’s sounds are surprisingly on point for such an insanely small device, thanks to its high-quality Cirrus Logic DAC.

It ensures that even the smallest of beats pack a punch with clear, crisp hi-hats and deep, rumbling kicks. 

Powered by just two AAA batteries (crazy, right?) the PO-12 is incredibly portable and efficient, capable of running for extended periods before needing new batteries​. 

Its user interface is intuitive, with simple button presses and knob turns controlling sound tweaks 一 making it a great entry-level drum machine.

But don’t get it twisted, it also offers enough depth to keep experienced producers like myself engaged, so don’t underestimate it.

With its combination of portability, nice sound, and easy integration into any setup, the PO-12 is a fantastic drum machine that brings a lot of creativity in a tiny package.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• 16 synthesized and sampled drum sounds.
• 16-step sequencer with pattern chaining.
• Real-time parameter locks.
• 16 punch-in effects including delay and bit crusher.
• Built-in LCD display and integrated speaker.
• Syncs with other gear using 3.5mm jacks.
• Powered by two AAA batteries for portability.
• One of the best drum machines in the game.

#11. Novation Circuit Tracks ($399)

The Novation Circuit Tracks is a versatile and portable groovebox designed for music producers looking to create complex and dynamic compositions on the go. 

It features two polyphonic synth tracks and four sample-based drum tracks, giving you a large range of all the sounds and rhythms you’ll ever need. 

Plus it can sequence external MIDI controllers and other gear with its two dedicated MIDI tracks, nonetheless​. 

Circuit Tracks includes a 32-step sequencer with: 

• Microtiming
• Probability
• Pattern mutate functions

Meaning, you can get super intricate when it comes to beat-making and evolving musical patterns that keep your drum sounds fresh and unpredictable​. 

The inclusion of a microSD card slot allows for expanded sample storage, accommodating up to 32 packs containing 64 projects, 64 user samples, and 128 synth patches, which is a big plus in my book.

The groovebox is packed with a rechargeable battery that provides up to four hours of portable play 一 making it the perfect companion for on-the-go music creation​. 

Its hands-on control with velocity-sensitive RGB pads, macro knobs for sound tweaking, and integrated reverb, delay, and sidechain effects give you tactile control over your beats and synths.

Connectivity includes stereo TRS inputs, MIDI In/Out/Thru, USB-C, and sync jacks.

NOTE: The Novation Components app further enhances the Circuit Tracks by allowing in-depth sound design and customization, making it one of the best drum machines for those seeking a user-friendly yet powerful music production tool. 

And don’t get it twisted that it’s the last drum machine on our list, it definitely holds its own in a way that only a few drum machines can beat.

Standout Features of This Best Drum Machine:

• Two polyphonic synth tracks and four drum tracks
• 32-step sequencer with microtiming and probability
• microSD card slot for expandable sample storage
• Rechargeable battery for portable use
• Velocity-sensitive pads and macro knobs
• Integrated reverb, delay, and sidechain effects
• Extensive connectivity including USB-C and MIDI
• One of the best drum machines in the game

Best Drum Machines: Final Thoughts

And there you have it… the absolute best drum machines in the game. 

Any of these epic choices can help you lay down powerful beats and intricate rhythms that stand out over the competition.

Plus, you’ll be able to experiment with sound design and create drum patterns like a professional. 

So it really boils down to your personal preference, price range, and workflow needs. 

But rest assured, any one you pick can deliver big results and elevate your music production to the next level.

Now, as a special bonus, let’s talk about Drum Monkey by Unison Audio 一 an invaluable plugin that can complement any drum machine setup. 

It comes packed with over 400 high-quality drum samples across various genres like hip-hop, electronic, and pop, providing extensive versatility for any style of music. 

It features a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to customize legendary drum patterns and sounds, giving you the flexibility all day long.

Unlike some plugins, Drum Monkey integrates seamlessly with most DAWs and doesn’t demand high CPU power.

So if you’re looking for stability without sacrificing quality, it’s the best choice out there, hands down.

So, whether you go for a hardware drum machine or a plugin like Drum Monkey, you’re setting yourself up with the best tools to take your skills to the next level.

Each choice offers unique capabilities that can inspire your creativity and keep your tracks sounding fresh, unique, and professionally crafted. 

Remember, keep experimenting, keep creating, and most importantly, keep those drums knocking.

Until next time…