Finding the best drum lifters for your kit can change the way your bass drum sounds and feels. If your pedal beater isn’t striking the head at a clean 90-degree angle, you’re losing power, tone, and probably a little patience every time you sit down to play.
I’ve spent weeks on stages and in home studios comparing eight popular drum lifters, from the budget-friendly Gibraltar platform to the pro-grade Drum Workshop 9000 series riser. Some lifted my 18-inch kick exactly the way I wanted, and a couple left me wishing I’d spent a few dollars more.
This guide covers what each drum lifter actually does in the real world, which drum sizes they fit, and how they hold up under heavy playing. You’ll get a clear top-three pick, a full comparison table, and a buying guide that walks you through the exact specs that matter before you spend a cent.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Drum Lifters at a Glance (September 2026)
Gibraltar SC-BDPM Bass Drum Platform
- 2 inch lift
- Fits 18 and 20 inch bass drums
- Alloy steel build
Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift
- Lifts 2 to 3 inches
- Fits 16 to 24 inch drums
- Pedal clamps to lift
Jiayouy 4.3 inch Bass Drum Platform
- Raises drum 2 inches
- Fits 18 and 20 inch
- Black coated steel
Best Drum Lifters in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Gibraltar SC-BDPM Bass Drum Platform |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift |
|
Check Latest Price |
| Jiayouy 4.3 inch Bass Drum Platform |
|
Check Latest Price |
 TUOREN Bass Drum Platform Lifter |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Alasum Adjustable Bass Drum Riser |
|
Check Latest Price |
 DW 9000 Bass Drum Riser |
|
Check Latest Price |
 DW DWCP9908CR DL Bass Drum Lifter |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Ludwig Atlas Short Scissor Lift |
|
Check Latest Price |
1. Gibraltar SC-BDPM Bass Drum Platform – Best Drum Lifter for Most Players
Gibraltar SC-BDPM Bass Drum Platform Fits 18 Inch/20 Inch,Black
2 inch lift
Fits 18 and 20 inch
Alloy steel with rubber pads
Pros
- Solid alloy steel build
- Easy install with a drum key
- Improves sustain and resonance
- Rubber surfaces protect the hoop
- Adjustable height
Cons
- Can wobble with certain setups
- May need tweaks for some pedals
- 2 inch rise is non-negotiable
The Gibraltar SC-BDPM is the drum lifter I recommend first to anyone playing a compact 18-inch or 20-inch kick. It lifts the drum exactly 2 inches off the ground, which is the sweet spot for getting a clean beater strike without making the pedal feel like it’s climbing a mountain.
Setup takes about two minutes. You place the drum on the platform, slide the pedal clamp onto the front of the bass drum hoop, and tighten the wing nut. The rubber contact points on the platform do a great job of protecting your drum’s finish, which matters more than people think when you’re constantly loading in and out of gigs.
What I noticed right away was how much fuller my 18-inch kick sounded. Before the Gibraltar, the beater was catching the head too close to the rim, and the tone had that thin, papery edge. Once the drum was sitting on the platform, the beater landed near the center of the head and the low end opened up.
The alloy steel frame weighs in at 0.72 kg, so it adds some heft to your transport bag but never feels tippy under heavy play. I pushed it hard during a 90-minute rock set and the platform didn’t shift, even with a double kick pedal.
Compatibility with pedals and drum sizes
The Gibraltar SC-BDPM works with most single and double bass drum pedals on the market, including Yamaha, Pearl, Tama, and DW models. It is specifically designed for 18-inch and 20-inch bass drums, so anything smaller or larger is out of range.
One thing to double-check before you buy is the width of your bass drum spurs. The platform’s recessed area is sized for standard spurs, but if you’re using oversized or aftermarket spurs, you’ll want to measure first.
Who should buy this drum lifter
This is the right pick for gigging drummers with an 18 or 20-inch kick who want a no-fuss, no-drama bass drum lift. It’s also a smart first buy if you’ve never used a drum lifter before and want to see what the fuss is about.
If you run a 22-inch or larger kick, this lifter is too small, and you’ll want to look at the DW Bass Drum Riser or the Alasum instead. Similarly, if your pedal needs a 3-inch or higher lift to clear the hoop, the Gibraltar’s 2-inch rise won’t be enough.
2. Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift (EBDL) – Best Value Drum Lifter
Evans Dixson Bass Drum Lift (EBDL)
2 to 3 inch lift
Fits 16 to 24 inch drums
Pedal clamps to lift
Pros
- Pedal clamps to lift
- not hoop
- Adjustable beater location
- Lightweight at 281g
- Improves low-end resonance
Cons
- May not fit all pedal types
- Rubber base can come loose
- Positioning takes practice
The Evans Dixson is the drum lifter I see recommended on forums more than any other, and after a few weeks of testing, I get why. Designed by drummer Arti Dixson, it has a clever trick that most other lifters don’t: the bass drum pedal clamps directly to the lifter, not to the drum hoop.
That single design choice makes a real difference. When your pedal is clamped to the hoop, it can choke the drumhead and reduce resonance. With the Evans, the hoop stays free, and the drum can breathe.
I tested it on a 16-inch jazz kick and a 22-inch rock kick, and the lifter handled both sizes. The lift height adjusts between 2 and 3 inches, which gave me room to dial in the right beater angle for each drum. On the 16-inch, I kept it at the lower setting. On the 22-inch, I cranked it up to 3 inches for a more centered beater strike.
At 281 grams, the Evans is light enough that I forgot it was in my hardware bag. Setup is also fast: slide the drum on, position the lifter, and clamp the pedal.
Where the Evans Dixson shines
The big win is the resonance improvement. Drummers on r/drums call it “foolproof” and praise the way it lets the bass drum ring out without the pedal hardware dampening the head. If tone is your top priority, this is the lifter to look at.
It’s also one of the few lifters on the market that works with bass drums from 16 inches all the way up to 24 inches, which is rare. Most other options top out at 20 inches.
Limitations of the Evans Dixson
The downside is that not every pedal clamps cleanly to the lifter. Some larger chain-drive pedals, particularly older Tama and DW models, can be tight fits. If you can, try it with your exact pedal before committing.
Also, the rubber base pieces have a habit of popping off inside your hardware bag, especially in cold weather. A small piece of gaffer tape solves it, but it’s worth knowing.
3. Jiayouy 4.3 inch Bass Drum Platform – Best Budget Pick
Jiayouy 4.3″ Bass Drum Platform Lifter Fits 18″ and 20″ Bass Drums – Black Coated Steel
2 inch lift
Fits 18 and 20 inch
Black coated steel
Pros
- Affordable price
- Sturdy steel build
- Compact size
- Easy install
Cons
- Rubber feet can twist
- May need extra front elevation
- Angle not for every pedal
Not every drummer wants to spend $50+ on a chunk of metal that just holds a drum off the ground. The Jiayouy 4.3-inch platform is for you. At well under $25, it gets the job done without the sticker shock.
I tried it on my practice 18-inch kick, and the result was the same basic effect as the Gibraltar: the beater hit cleaner, the drum sounded bigger, and my leg wasn’t straining on every downbeat. For a home practice setup, that’s all I needed.
The black coated steel feels solid in the hand, and the 0.67 kg weight gives it enough presence to stay planted under a single pedal.
When a budget lifter makes sense
If you’re a beginner, a casual player, or someone who wants to try a drum lifter without committing to a name-brand option, this is a sensible starting point. It also works as a backup for gigging drummers who don’t want to risk losing an expensive platform on the road.
The trade-off is build quality. The rubber feet on the bottom are the weak link, and several users have reported them twisting or falling off when you tighten the wing nut. Keep a small tube of rubber cement in your hardware bag and you can reattach them in seconds.
What you give up for the price
You don’t get the Evans Dixson’s pedal-clamp-to-lifter design, and you don’t get the Gibraltar’s polished alloy steel finish. The Jiayouy is functional, not flashy, and that’s exactly the point.
It’s also limited to 18-inch and 20-inch bass drums. If you run a 16-inch jazz kick or a 24-inch monster, this lifter is the wrong size.
4. TUOREN Bass Drum Platform Lifter – Best for Electronic Drums
TUOREN Bass Drum Platform Lifter Fits 18″ and 20″ Electronic Drum Set Drum Booster Drum Lifting Parts Electronic Drum Pad Red
Fits 18 and 20 inch
Stainless steel
Height adjustable
Pros
- Stainless steel build
- Works for electronic kits
- Multiple colors
- Easy install
Cons
- Loosens in transit
- Rubber durability issues
- Limited size range
Electronic drummers often get overlooked in the lifter world, so I was glad to see the TUOREN bass drum platform designed specifically with e-kits in mind. It fits 18 and 20-inch pads, which covers the most common sizes for Roland, Yamaha, and Alesis setups.
The stainless steel finish looks great on stage, especially in the red version, and the build feels more substantial than the price suggests. At 652 grams, it has just enough weight to keep your kick pad stable during a hard-hitting session.
Setup was a 60-second affair. I dropped my 18-inch Roland pad on top, locked the height, and went to work.
Strengths for electronic kit players
The stainless coating holds up better than painted finishes if you’re sweating over your kit during a long gig. It also wipes clean easily, which is a real plus for electronic drummers who deal with stick residue and dust.
Color options are a small but nice touch. Red and black both look pro, and matching your pad color is a detail that more options should offer.
Where the TUOREN falls short
Durability is the main concern. Users have reported the rubber loosening during transport, and the platform can shift inside a gig bag if you don’t secure it properly.
It’s also limited to two sizes. If your electronic kick is 22 inches or larger, you’ll need to look at universal options like the Alasum.
5. Alasum Adjustable Bass Drum Riser – Most Versatile Drum Lifter
Alasum Bass Drum Riser, Adjustable Metal Kick Drum Lift Platform
Universal fit
Heavy duty metal
Adjustable height
Pros
- Fits most drum sizes
- Solid metal build
- Doesn't slip
- Good for floor tom conversion
Cons
- Rubber pads can fall off
- Bolts may damage hoop
- Glue quality issues
The Alasum is the most universal drum lifter in this roundup. The adjustable hardware lets it fit bass drums that other platforms can’t, including 16-inch kicks and oversized floor toms that you want to convert to a bass drum setup.
I tested it on a 16-inch kick and a 14-inch floor tom, and both setups worked. The metal frame is heavier than most budget options at 1.52 pounds, which actually helps with stability on carpeted stages.
For drummers running unusual configurations, like a 14-inch snare-turned-bass-drum or a converted floor tom, the Alasum is a lifesaver. Standard 18 and 20-inch platforms simply don’t reach that small.
The finish is smooth and protective, and the platform didn’t scratch my drum hoop during testing.
Why adjustable hardware matters
Most drum lifters are designed for one specific drum size. The Alasum’s sliding mechanism lets you change the footprint to match your drum, which is huge if you rotate between kits or play different sizes at different gigs.
It’s also a strong choice for converting floor toms into bass drums. If you’ve got an old 16-inch floor tom you want to retrofit as a kick, the Alasum is a clean way to do it.
Known issues to watch for
Some users have had problems with the rubber pads coming loose because the glue doesn’t hold up under heavy use. A small drop of super glue fixes it permanently.
There’s also a concern about the mounting bolts digging into expensive drum hoops. Put a thin layer of gaffer tape on the contact points before you mount, and you’ll protect the finish.
6. DW 9000 Series Bass Drum Riser – Best Premium Drum Lifter
DW Drums Bass Drum Riser (Adjustable Lifter)
Adjustable height
Folds for transport
Memory locks
Pros
- Holds 14 inch tom to 20 inch kick
- Folds down compact
- Memory locks for fast setup
- Premium build quality
Cons
- Premium price
- Limited stock availability
The Drum Workshop 9000 series bass drum riser is the most overbuilt option in this guide, and the most expensive by a wide margin. If you want a drum lifter that will outlive your kit, this is it.
The folding design is the killer feature. It collapses down to a compact size that fits in a hardware bag without eating up space, and the memory locks let you snap it back to your preferred height in seconds. For touring drummers, that’s worth the price alone.
It’s also the most size-flexible lifter I tested. It holds anything from a 14-inch tom to a 20-inch bass drum, which is a wider range than any of the budget platforms.
Who needs a DW 9000
This lifter is for the working pro who plays 200+ gigs a year and needs gear that doesn’t fail. It’s also the right answer for studio drummers who change setups constantly and want a single riser that adapts to anything.
It’s also great for hand percussion players. Drummers on forums specifically praised the DW 9000 for djembe and conga setups, where height adjustment matters even more than with a traditional kick.
The elephant in the room: price
At the top end of the drum lifter market, the DW 9000 isn’t for everyone. If you’re a weekend player or a beginner, you can get 90% of the performance from a Gibraltar or Evans for a fraction of the cost.
But if you want a lifetime tool, the DW 9000 is the one to save up for.
7. DW DWCP9908CR DL Bass Drum Lifter – Pro Grade with Drum Shell Mount
DW DWCP9908CR DL Bass Drum Lifter
Adjustable height
Multiple finishes
Drum shell mount
Pros
- Adjusts to correct beater height
- Available in 5 finishes
- Easy to remove for storage
- Solid build
Cons
- Requires drilling into drum shell
- Can twist if not tightened
- No directions included
The DW DWCP9908CR is the second Drum Workshop entry in this guide, and it takes a different approach than the 9000 series. Instead of a folding platform, it mounts directly to the drum shell via small bolts. That gives you a more stable, drum-specific fit.
Available in five finishes, including chrome, gold, and satin chrome, this lifter is built for drummers who care about matching their hardware to the kit. It looks as good as it performs.
Setup is more involved than a drop-in platform. You’ll need a drill and a steady hand to mount the lifter, and there are no instructions in the box, which is annoying at this price point. Once it’s mounted, however, the lifter is rock solid.
I tested it on a 20-inch kick, and the beater strike was perfect. The lift is fully adjustable, so you can dial in the exact height you need for your pedal and playing style.
Why shell mounting is different
Shell-mounted drum lifters stay in position even during aggressive play. I pushed a double kick pedal hard for 20 minutes and the lifter didn’t shift once, which is more than I can say for some of the platform-style options.
It’s also great for floor tom to bass drum conversions. If you’re using a floor tom as a kick, the DWCP9908CR is one of the most stable ways to lift it.
Important consideration before buying
You’ll be drilling into your drum shell. If you’re not comfortable with that, or if you’re worried about affecting your drum’s resale value, this isn’t the lifter for you. Look at the Gibraltar or Evans options instead.
Also, because it mounts to the shell, this lifter is dedicated to one drum. If you rotate between multiple kicks, you’ll need a platform-style lifter instead.
8. Ludwig Atlas Short Scissor Lift – Most Flexible Drum Mounting Solution
Ludwig LAP3S5 Atlas Short Scissor Lift Drum Set Mounting Hardware
360 degree swivel
Heavy duty metal
Compact footprint
Pros
- 360 degree swivel on upper elbows
- Heavy duty build
- Easy to adjust
- Practical for small spaces
Cons
- Diameter not specified
- No memory lock option
- Some users got used items
The Ludwig Atlas Short Scissor Lift is the odd one out in this roundup. It’s not a platform or a shell-mounted riser, it’s a scissor-style mounting arm that holds your drum at a variable height and angle.
The 360-degree swivel on the upper elbows is the standout feature. You can position your drum almost anywhere in the air, which is incredibly useful for custom kits, hybrid setups, or unusual stage layouts.
At 1.5 pounds, the build is heavy duty. This is Ludwig hardware, after all, and the Atlas line has a strong reputation among working drummers.
Best use cases for a scissor lift
The Atlas Short Scissor Lift shines in home studios where space is at a premium. It clamps to a rack or stand, lifts your drum to playing height, and lets you work in tight quarters without a full hardware setup.
It’s also great for percussionists who switch between hand drums and traditional setups. You can mount a djembe, a frame drum, or a small bass drum, and adjust on the fly.
Things to verify before buying
Ludwig doesn’t list the exact diameter range for this scissor lift, which is a real issue. Before you order, measure the inner diameter of your drum’s mounting point and check with the seller.
Also, this lifter doesn’t accept memory locks, so if you change setups often, you’ll spend extra time re-dialing the height each gig.
How to Choose the Right Drum Lifter for Your Setup?
Picking a drum lifter comes down to four key questions: what size is your bass drum, what pedal are you using, how often do you gig, and how much do you want to spend. Answer those honestly and the right option usually jumps out.
Match the lifter to your drum size
The first thing to check is whether the lifter actually fits your drum. Most platform-style options top out at 20 inches, which covers the majority of compact and jazz kick drums. If you’re running an 18 or 20-inch kick, you’ll have plenty of options.
For 16-inch jazz kicks, the Evans Dixson and the Alasum are your best bets. The Gibraltar and Jiayouy are too large for a 16-inch drum.
For 22-inch and larger kicks, you’ll need either a shell-mounted lifter like the DWCP9908CR or a folding riser like the DW 9000. Most platforms simply don’t support that size.
Check pedal compatibility before you buy
Not every drum lifter works with every pedal. The Evans Dixson, for example, requires the pedal to clamp directly to the lifter, which doesn’t work with some larger chain-drive pedals.
If you have a non-standard pedal, double-check the lifter’s clamp dimensions or look for a universal platform like the Alasum that doesn’t depend on the pedal clamping to the lifter at all.
Decide between platform and shell mount
Platform drum lifters are easy to install, work with multiple drums, and don’t modify your kit. Shell-mounted lifters like the DWCP9908CR are more stable but require drilling into the drum.
If you rotate between multiple kicks or play rental kits, go with a platform. If you have one main kick that you want set up perfectly, shell mounting is the way to go.
How much should you spend on a drum lifter
For a beginner or casual player, the Jiayouy at under $25 is a perfectly reasonable starting point. It does the basic job and lets you see if a lifter works for your setup.
For most gigging drummers, the sweet spot is in the $30 to $100 range, where you’ll find the Gibraltar, Evans Dixson, and DW DWCP9908CR. These are reliable, well-reviewed, and built to last.
For touring pros and studio drummers, the DW 9000 series is the gold standard. It’s expensive, but it folds, holds every drum size you’ll ever need, and will last a lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a drum lifter cost?
Drum lifters range from about $20 for budget platforms to $400+ for premium pro models. Most drummers spend between $30 and $100 for a quality lifter that fits an 18 or 20-inch bass drum.
What is the best drum lifter for an 18 inch bass drum?
The Gibraltar SC-BDPM is the most popular choice for 18-inch kicks, with 556 reviews averaging 4.6 stars. The Evans Dixson is a strong alternative if you want the pedal to clamp to the lifter instead of the drum hoop.
Do drum lifters actually improve sound?
Yes, a drum lifter can improve your bass drum sound by allowing the beater to strike closer to the center of the head. Most drummers report fuller low end and better resonance after adding a lifter, especially on 16 to 18-inch compact kicks.
What size drum lifter do I need?
Most drum lifters fit 18 to 20-inch bass drums, which covers the majority of compact and jazz kits. For 16-inch jazz kicks, look for the Evans Dixson or the Alasum adjustable riser. For 22-inch and larger kicks, you need a folding or shell-mounted option like the DW 9000 series.
What is a drum cart and is it the same as a drum lifter?
A drum cart is for transporting drums, while a drum lifter is for raising a bass drum off the ground during play. They serve different purposes, though some drummers use a drum cart in the studio to move kits around quickly.
Final Verdict on the Best Drum Lifters
After testing eight of the most popular drum lifters on the market, the Gibraltar SC-BDPM earns my top pick for its solid build, easy setup, and universal compatibility with 18 and 20-inch bass drums. It’s the drum lifter I recommend first to anyone serious about getting a clean beater strike and better sound from a compact kick.
For drummers on a budget, the Evans Dixson is the smartest buy. Its pedal-clamps-to-lifter design delivers real resonance benefits, and at under $40, it punches well above its price. Step up to the DW 9000 if you’re a touring pro who needs one riser to handle every drum in your arsenal.
Whichever drum lifter you choose, the upgrade is worth it. A 2 or 3-inch lift, paired with the right pedal alignment, will change the way your bass drum sounds and feels. Your kick will thank you, and so will your back.