21 Best Drum Thrones 2024, For Small & Big Guys, Those With Bad Back & More

Every drummer needs a drum throne, but different drummers have different needs.

Some are bigger. Some are smaller. Some are looking for comfort, while others are looking for more padding.

It might seem vain to think about, but it’s not – drummers are responsible for holding a band together rhythmically. So, if they aren’t comfortable in rehearsals, performances or recording sessions, they are unlikely to be at their best.

Fortunately, there are plenty of drum throne to choose from. The only challenging part will be picking the right one for you.

Here are some of the best drum throne on the market, for small and big players.

DW Drum Workshop CP9100M 9000 Series Tripod Throne With Round Seat

The DW CP9100M tripod throne comes with a 14” round top, made with a special combination of foam for stability and comfort, newly-designed double-locking clamp, Vise lock seat clamp and oversized 1-1/4” base for added stability.

Many buyers say this throne offers great comfort and is a quality product. Some players said it sits a little too high for them, indicating that your height or length of legs might make a bit of difference. Always a good thing to consider before committing to a purchase.

We find most Drum Workshop Inc. products to be high quality, so this certainly isn’t a bad place to start if you’ve got a bit of a budget to spend.

Good For Bad Back Sufferers: ROC-N-SOC Nitro Throne

The ROC-N-SOC Nitro throne comes in Black, Blue and Red. It is height adjustable from 18” to 24” and comes with a contoured bicycle seat-style cushion to prevent leg fatigue, sturdy base welds for stability and free spinning, which can reduce strain from body twisting.

Buyers found this seat durable, comfortable and affordably priced. Even those with back pain found it relieved a lot of tension.

Some buyers didn’t believe it was worth the asking price, but there always seems to be one rotten apple. Our best tip is to avoid buying anything you can’t afford – stay within your budget!

Good For Big Guys: Gibraltar Softy Drum Throne

The Gibraltar Softy drum throne comes with 5” thick super soft round seat top lined with Cordura and vinyl edges.

The seat also comes with top grade foam for comfort, rock solid double-braced leg base, super-lock cast seat fastening system, super foot solid foundation with rubber feet, threaded height adjustment (20” to 26”) and memory lock.

Drummers found the throne sturdy and easy to adjust. Bigger players found it comfortable too.

A minor nitpick is that apparently you need tools to adjust the seat height and spin. Certainly, a good thing to know before purchase.

For Smaller Drummers: DW Drum Workshop CP5100 5000 Series Throne

The DW CP5100 throne comes with a smaller 13” seat top, heavy duty construction and sturdy tripod base.

Reviewers found the quality for the simple seat to be solid. They had good results with height adjustment too.

Some found the throne to be durable but didn’t like the seat top as much. This is individual, so that’s to be expected.

This DW entry still belongs on this list and if you’re comparison shopping, you should have a look.

Ahead Drum Throne (SPGBS)

The AHEAD SPGBS drum throne comes with a heavy-duty, tripod base with a double-locking, threaded height adjustment and sturdy seat connector plate.

This is what AHEAD refers to as a Spinal G throne as it’s made for a higher level of support and comfort. These babies are apparently medically tested and scientifically proven to support the drummer’s natural body geometry and motion. The unique split-seat, spring-assisted design allows for added mobility and flexibility.

Reviewers have verified these claims by suggesting that this is one of the most comfortable thrones they’ve ever used. The only thing to look out for, apparently, is that this seat is not lightweight, and might even be heavier than most alternatives.

AHEAD may be a relative newcomer in the drumming space, but their products are worth checking out, including this one.

Roland RDT-SH Drum Throne

The Roland RDT-SH drum throne comes with a Roland proprietary design for comfort and support, oversized soft plush seat top, simple hydraulic height adjustment and durable commercial-grade materials.

This seat was designed with the pro in mind. A proprietary blend of foam was used for the seat and comes with a cushioning core that relieves pressure points.

The breathable velour top reduces heat while keeping you cool, and the double-braced chrome base and heavy-duty steel bracket should hold up to some serious abuse.

Most drummers loved what this throne had to offer. Some found it to be a bit pricey, however.

If you gig and record often, then the Roland is probably worth it. Otherwise, you may want to explore other options on this list, of which there are plenty.

ROC-N-SOC Lunar Series Gas Lift Drum Throne

The ROC-N-SOC Lunar Series drum throne offers stability (feels like a motion throne without the motion) and height adjustability.

Many drummers loved this throne. Some who’ve tried other brands are now converts to ROC-N-SOC.

Reviews are a little mixed, but critical buyers all had different things to say about the throne, suggesting that it just isn’t the right fit for some people.

We still feel the ROC-N-SOC seats should be considered, and if this one doesn’t suit your style, they do have others.

Gibraltar Pro Oversized Motorcycle Style Throne

The Gibraltar Pro oversized motorcycle style throne comes with a luxurious Cordura top, vinyl edges, top grade foam, double braced leg base, super-lock cast seat fastening system, super foot solid foundation, rubber feat, threaded height adjustment and memory lock.

Many buyers, even taller drummers, found this seat to be a comfortable fit. Even older layers liked it. One buyer said the bolts worked loose after 30 minutes, but that’s just one opinion. Maybe tightening the bolts would help?

The Gibraltar is another worthy contender on this list.

Gibraltar 9608MB Bike Seat Style Large Cordura Drum Throne With Backrest

The Gibraltar 9608MB bike seat style throne comes with a Cordura/vinyl seat, backrest, double braced leg base, super foot solid foundation and rubber feet, memory lock height adjustment and super-lock cast seat fastening system.

Many players found this to be a durable, comfortable and versatile seat and even home studio owners liked the results.

Gibraltar 9608HM Hydraulic Moto Throne

The Gibraltar 9608HM hydraulic throne comes with a large, 17” plush Cordura MOTO-style seat, hydraulic tube and Gibraltar’s exclusive oversized super foot.

Many players have found the Gibraltar to be both comfortable and stable. Some seemed to have issues with the seat rising unexpectedly.

Aside from some minor issues, this is another quality option.

BOLT Drum Throne Motorcycle Style Nitro Throne Drum Chair Airlift Throne

The BOLT Nitro Airlift throne is height adjustable from 18” to 24” and has a weight limit of 550 lbs.

The comfortable, ergonomic design features a contoured motorcycle style vinyl seat cushion to prevent leg fatigue. The sturdy base welds and hardware with double braced offer stability.

It also comes with pneumatic height adjustment, free spinning seat to reduce spinal strain and nitrogen gas shock absorber for subtle bounce.

Even heavier players found this to be a comfortable choice. Negative reviews are few and far between for the BOLT.

MAPEX T770 Drum Throne

The MAPEX T770 drum throne comes with a 14” wide and 4” thick seat for comfort. The backrest is adjustable and offers additional support for your spine.

It also features a steel spindle height adjustment with memory lock ad fourth double-braced leg for added stability.

Reviewers noted the throne is solid and heavy and features excellent craftsmanship. A minor nitpick is that apparently the seat isn’t as soft as some wanted.

The MAPEX, overall, is still a runaway winner.

DW Drum Workshop 3000 Series DWCP3100 Throne With Vise Memory

The DW DWCP3100 drum throne comes with a sturdy tripod base, solid ear casting, 13” round seat top and 3” thick seat. The durable seat is vinyl covered and foam stuffed for support and comfort.

This seat got excellent reviews, even from guitarists and bassists. Buyers found it was sturdy, firm and versatile.

Not surprisingly, its strengths are also its weaknesses in the eyes of others, who didn’t like that this seat was so firm and hard.

So, if you don’t mind a harder seat, or if that’s exactly what you’re looking for, then you should check out this affordably priced DW throne.

PDP By DW 700 Series Drum Throne

The affordable PDP 700 Series drum throne is lightweight and comes with a round top 3” padded  cushion, 12” diameter with eight-screw X-brace, double-braced legs with large rubber feet and solid 1” base designed with carriage-bolt height adjustment (20” to 25”).

Buyers found this to be a suitable throne for most gigging needs, even for those weighing 200+ lbs. They also loved that it was lightweight.

Some users, however, found that the seat kept coming loose, and even said it wobbles. The Pacific Drums Percussion unit may not be suitable for ongoing, regular use, but for casual use, it might be worth a look. It’s not overly pricey, after all.

Gibraltar 6608 Heavy Drum Throne

The Gibraltar 6608 heavy drum throne comes with top grade foam, direct in height adjustment with memory lock (18” to 24”), motorcycle style vinyl seat and double braced.

Users say this throne is entirely suitable for tall and heavy people and even noted that it was great value for the money.

Some customers, however, did not find the throne comfortable, suggesting that it’s not for everyone.

Gibraltar 9608 Drum Throne

The Gibraltar 9608 drum throne comes with top grade foam for maximum comfort, height adjustment (20” to 28”), rock solid double braced leg base, super-lock cast seat fastening system, super foot solid foundation and rubber feet.

Positive reviewers say this is the best seat money can buy and found this to be a heavy-duty drum throne. Some buyers, however, did not like the seat. It’s always worth looking for a seat that matches your exact needs.

Yamaha DS-550 Drum Throne

The Yamaha DS-550 drum throne comes with a lightweight, single-braced design, 2” thick padded cushion and five-year warranty.

Users say this truly is a heavy-duty throne, and even 300+ lbs. drummers found it stable. Some found the design to be a little out of date while others said it was uncomfortable.

The Yamaha should prove useful for some players though.

Flyerstoy Drum Thrones Adjustable Padded Drum Stool With Anti-Slip Feet For Adults And Kids

The Flyerstoy adjustable drum stool features anti-slip rubber feet for stability, double-braced folding legs, easy to adjust height (two knobs for height and leg, 16” to 19”), folding legs for easy transport and can be used by a variety of musicians – keyboardists, guitarists, brass players and so on.

Buyers found it to be a sturdy and adjustable seat. Complaints are few and far between. A solid, affordable option for beginners and those in need of a stool for casual use.

Gibraltar 5608 Throne Round Seat

The Gibraltar 5608 throne comes with a round, vinyl seat top, top grade foam for comfort, single braced collapsible tripod base, cast height adjust collar with nylon bushing, knurled adjustable height support stem and memory lock.

Customers found this throne to be better than much cheaper counterparts and noted that it was lightweight and sturdy.

One user said they had issues with the height adjustment not holding, but we can’t confirm or deny this claim.

CB Drums JRX08 Junior Drum Throne

The CB Drums JRX08 drum throne was designed specifically for Jr. kits and weighs about 4 lbs.

Users liked that it worked well for children, and noted it was sturdy and easy to set up.

This stool probably won’t work for shorter adults, however, so take note.

Percussion Plus 300T Single-Braced Junior Drum Throne

The Percussion Plus 300T single-braced junior drum throne is intended for three- to five-piece junior drum sets. It comes with no-slip height adjustment, easy setup and single-braced hardware.

Customers found this product to be perfect for their children. By no means should this be considered a good throne for adults.

Complaints range from cumbersome adjustment features to lack of quality. Overall, the Percussion Plus stool is still a highly rated product.

What Should I Look For In A Drum Throne?

Shopping for a drum stool isn’t overly complicated. If it wasn’t for individual preferences and needs, there would only ever be need for one product.

That’s where it gets a little tricky – there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

You might need added height adjustment capabilities. You might need less. You may prefer a firm seat to a softer seat. Swiveling might be important to you. Maybe you like backrests. Maybe you don’t.

This gives you an idea of why there are so many products out there and why choosing the right throne can get a little complex.

If you can rent a few thrones at a music store, or even just go into a music store to test out a few, that’s probably your best bet. You’ll start to get an idea of what will work best for you.

With that in mind, there are only a few criteria you need to consider when buying a drum throne.

In this section, we will look at:

• Quality and durability
• Comfort and adjustability
• Stability and sturdiness
• Budget

With that, here’s what you need to know about each of these factors:

Quality & Durability

Is the drum throne made of quality, sturdy materials? Does the seat stay in place or swivel if that’s what it’s been designed to do and allow for movement? Are the legs durable? Does the height adjustment work as advertised?

Longevity is generally where the rubber meets the road. Most seats work fine out of the box. The question is, does it continue to work, jam after jam, gig after gig, session after session?

If you don’t mind trading out your seat every few months, then perhaps this isn’t much of a concern. If you’re going to be spending more, then you’re probably expecting it to last you a little longer.

We can get a good sense of how well a seat is going to hold up just by scanning the reviews. If the throne has any glaring issues, you can usually find comments reflecting this fact.

Not everyone is after absolute quality or comfort, and some players just need a seat for casual use or something to tide them over while they save up for another.

Still, most drummers would consider this an important factor and likely wouldn’t jump into a purchase without confirming the quality and robustness of a seat.

As noted, you can go to an instrument store to try out a few thrones for yourself, or even watch video reviews and demos for specific models, if they are available.

Comfort & Adjustability

This criterion basically takes the cake for most drummers, as they will be sitting, often for hours at a time, while delivering killer beats for the band.

Some thrones that are comfortable to sit on for 30 to 45 minutes aren’t always great for an hour or more. And, some drummers will be at their kits for even longer than that, depending on what they’re up to.

Comfort is mostly a factor of the seat and backrest (if there is one), the material it’s made of, as well as its overall softness or firmness.

This is highly individual, since everyone prefers different things and their bodies respond differently to various solutions.

Again, it’s worth testing out as many thrones as you can before coming to a firm decision.

Adjustability is another important factor, and most thrones come with at least some basic functionality in this regard.

Your height and weight are certainly going to play a part in what makes the most sense for you. If you already have a good sense of what you need in this regard, then it’s just a matter of scanning the options.

If not, again, it might take some trial and error before you find your ideal throne.

Stability & Sturdiness

If you’re scanning this list, it could be because you have more height/weight to content with. We’re not making that assumption, since you might just be looking for a solid throne, but if that’s a consideration for you, you’ll probably want to find a stool that matches your needs.

As much as possible, we’ve made note of thrones that big guys found usable. But if you’re wondering about any stool, it’s always worth scanning online reviews to see what might work best for you.

This certainly goes hand in hand with comfort, since sturdiness isn’t worth a whole lot if you can’t sit yourself down long enough to nail your drum parts.

Budget

Drum thrones pre-setup generally range from about $30 to $230.

It’s certainly possible to find a quality drum throne at the cheaper end of the spectrum, but in general you do get sturdier and more comfortable options at the higher end.

If you’re spending less, it’s probably because you’re looking for a stool for occasional casual use. This doesn’t mean you need to spend as little as possible.

If you’re spending more, you might be rehearsing, gigging and maybe even recording more actively. This doesn’t mean you need to spend as much as possible.

It is, however, incredibly important for a drummer to be comfortable as they’re playing, and the right stool will certainly assist with that.

With this in mind, we recommend staying within your budget. While drum thrones aren’t expensive, they can cost a couple hundred dollars.

Spending responsibly will allow you to stay out of debt, which can negatively affect your finances.

What Are The Best Drum Throne Brands?

In the drum throne space, there are certain brands and manufacturers doing a better job of serving the market than others.

Here are some of the best drum throne brands out there.

DW/Drum Workshop

Drum Workshop, perhaps better known as DW among drummers, clearly has an extensive catalog of drum thrones to serve different needs.

Of course, they offer everything from kits and pedals and hardware to accessories, drumwear and even DVDs.

As it turns out, there is a purpose behind the name. DW began as a drum workshop in Santa Monica, CA in 1972. Their first product was a height-adjustable trap case seat in 1974. Of course, things started to develop relatively quickly from there.

With a deep history, a big range of products and an enthusiastic team, you can count on DW to deliver on their promises with their gear.

Gibraltar

If you’ve been in the drumming world for any length of time, it’s unlikely you haven’t heard of Gibraltar Hardware.

They focus almost exclusively on the hardware aspect of drums, so you know that what they have to offer in this category is solid.

There is a long list of artists that trust Gibraltar to deliver, including Steve Gills, Alan White, Chaun Horton, Damian Arriaga, Eric Micali, Jim Bower and more.

This private company was founded in 1993. With a solid history and a focus on stands, practice pads, cases and accessories, you know that you’re getting something good when you go with Gibraltar.

Yamaha

Yamaha is another well-known, trustworthy brand in the musical space.

They have a wide range of products, including keyboards, guitars, basses, amps, drums, brass and woodwind instruments, strings, percussion, marching instruments, music production tools, professional audio, apps and more.

Unlike some companies that manufacture a wide range of products, however, Yamaha tends to do a lot of it well.

This isn’t to suggest all of their drum gear is generally to a drummer’s liking, but they are invested enough in the space to produce quality drum thrones (plus, they have other expertise that might help in this regard).

Yamaha may not have a ton of offerings, but you can’t overlook them.

Ahead

AHEAD mostly specializes in drumsticks, but they also make cases, practice pads, muters and dampers, hardware, mounts, snares, drum thrones and more.

As you can see from the above, they can be counted on to produce quality gear, and even if sticks are their main thing, their thrones aren’t slouches either.

Ahead started in 1992 and has been committed to creating innovative products ever since. AHEAD stands for Advanced High Efficiency Alloy Drumsticks, which were developed by Rick Grossman.

Again, from the list above, we can conclude that they make great stools for drummers.

ROC-N-SOC

Drummers everywhere are raving about ROC-N-SOC thrones, and that shouldn’t come as any surprise. The company focuses almost exclusively on quality seating for musicians and accessories.

Roc-n-Soc was the first to offer a motion throne in 1987. In 1990, they were the first to develop colored and embroidered cloth seats. Then they created the first successful guitar stool in 2003. That’s a lot of firsts.

While they may not be as established or widely known as some manufacturers in the industry, we think every drummer would do well to check out their gear, even if just to see if it’s the right fit for them.

Mapex

The Taiwanese Mapex Drums was established by KHS Musical Instruments in 1989.

Their product line includes drum sets, snares, hardware, accessories and marching band equipment.

Their artist roster includes the likes of Chris Adler from Lamb of God, Rees Bridges from Dirty Vegas, Josh Devine from One Direction and many others.

So far as their thrones are concerned, it probably depends which product you go with. The company does not specialize in thrones, though they know what they’re doing with drums.

Pacific Drums Percussion

Pacific Drums Percussion, or PDP, was established by DW in Santa Monica, California in the year 2000. DW set up the brand when they were starting to look at offering a more affordable line of products.

PDP offers drum sets, snare drums, hardware and pedals, accessories, drumwear and more.

This is another one of those cases where it largely depends on which product you buy. We know that DW is a reputable brand, but when a product costs less, it’s because certain corners were cut.

PDP is still well-regarded in drum circles.

Roland

Roland serves a broad range of musicians, producers and engineers, though they are probably most known for their keyboards, and to some extent, their recording gear.

But they do offer a variety of products, including guitar and bass effects, amplifiers, drums and percussion, production, pro audio, pro video, accessories and more.

In the drums and percussion market, Roland is probably best known for their electronic kits, and to that extent, it makes sense that they would offer drum thrones and decent ones at that.

But since they don’t specialize in this area, their product range is somewhat limited, which is to be expected.

Overall, it seems the few products they offer are high-quality though.

Best Drum Thrones, Final Thoughts

Is it a relief to know there are so many drum thrones out there, or is it a tad overwhelming?

Either way, we hope you’ve been able to narrow down your options and get a good sense of which seat you’ll be buying.

As we all know, sitting for long hours isn’t ideal, so it’s important to ensure that you are comfortable while drumming. Don’t be afraid to put a little money into this.

Thanks for reading and happy shopping.