Snare Drum Guide: 7 Types of Snare Drums
The snare drum is one of the most recognizable and versatile instruments in modern music. From marching bands and orchestras to rock, jazz, and pop, its sharp crack and dynamic range have defined countless recordings and performances. Understanding the types of snare drums available can help you find the right sound for your playing style and musical genre.
The Origins of the Snare Drum
The modern snare drum evolved from the tabor, a small medieval drum used throughout Europe in the 13th and 14th centuries. The tabor featured a single gut snare stretched across one head, producing a buzzing tone that would become the foundation of today’s snare sound. Over centuries, drum makers refined the design—adding metal snares, deeper shells, and tunable heads—until the snare became an essential component of both military and modern drum kits.
By the 20th century, the snare had moved beyond marching fields into jazz clubs, concert halls, and recording studios. Its signature crack became the heartbeat of popular music.
3 Main Parts of a Snare Drum
While there are many types of snare drums, they all share three essential components:
Drum Shell
The shell forms the body of the snare and determines much of its tone and projection. Common materials include wood (maple, birch, poplar) and metal (steel, brass, aluminum).
Wood snares provide warmth and body.
Metal snares offer brightness and bite, ideal for cutting through dense mixes.
Drum Heads
Snare drums have two heads—
The batter head (top) is where the drummer strikes.
The resonant head (bottom) supports the snare wires and contributes to the drum’s sensitivity and sustain.
Most modern drumheads are made of Mylar or other synthetic materials, tuned with a drum key for precise pitch control.
Snare Wires and Hardware
The snare wires, stretched across the bottom head, create the characteristic “snap.” A throw-off switch allows drummers to engage or disengage the wires instantly. Chrome hardware, tension rods, and lugs maintain structural integrity and tuning stability.
7 Common Types of Snare Drums
Drum Set Snare
The standard snare used in modern kits, typically 14" in diameter and 5"–6.5" deep. Found in all genres from pop to metal.
Orchestral Snare
Designed for symphonic and concert band use, often featuring calfskin heads and fine-tuned response for delicate rolls and dynamics.
Marching Snare
Deep and powerful, marching snares use high-tension heads and strong projection to carry across open fields and parade routes.
Piccolo Snare
Smaller and shallower, usually around 13" x 3". Produces a sharp, high-pitched “pop” ideal for funk, hip-hop, and pop.
Side Snare (Auxiliary Snare)
A compact secondary snare used to add bright accents and layered textures. Often mounted beside the main snare or toms.
Featured Model: 1006 Series Side Snare Drum – 6 x 10-inch
For beginners and drummers on a budget, adding a unique voice to your kit is now easier than ever. The 1006 Series Steel Side Snare offers a pro-level sound without the high-end price tag.
This compact, all-steel auxiliary snare delivers a crisp, bright foundation, highlighted by a tight response and ample projection—perfect for accents, intricate ghost notes, or a second cutting snare voice in your setup.
Lightweight yet durable, it’s an ideal addition for drummers of all styles seeking versatility and portability.
Tarol Snare
Used in Latin and Brazilian music, this snare has wires on the top head, creating a distinct tone ideal for samba and street percussion.
Caixa (Brazilian Snare)
Similar to the tarol, the caixa is a defining instrument in Brazilian batucada ensembles. Its bright, sizzling tone cuts through dense rhythms with ease.
How to Choose the Right Snare Drum
Selecting the right snare depends on your musical goals, budget, and preferred sound character:
For versatility: A 14" x 5.5" steel snare provides a balanced tone for most genres.
For power: A deep brass or maple snare adds body and warmth.
For portability and creativity: A side snare like the 1006 Series 6x10 offers fresh tonal options without expanding your kit footprint.
Final Thoughts
The snare drum remains the centerpiece of modern drumming—a blend of precision, tone, and personality. Whether you play in a marching band, record in a studio, or perform live, understanding different types of snare drums helps you craft your ideal sound.
For drummers ready to expand their setup, the 1006 Series Side Snare Drum is a smart and affordable upgrade that brings a professional edge to any kit configuration.