EZdrummer 3 review
A focused drum-production tool with extensive grooves and guided song-building tools.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
EZdrummer 3 is Toontrack’s virtual drum software for songwriters, producers, and electronic drummers who want drum parts and arrangement tools in one place. It includes seven drum kits recorded in three rooms, percussion, mix-ready presets, and more than 2,500 MIDI grooves and fills. The product runs on Windows and macOS as a standalone application or as a VST3, AU, or AAX plug-in. Its focus is specifically drum production, rather than a broad collection of virtual instruments.
The songwriting workflow combines several ways to find and shape parts. Bandmate suggests grooves from audio or MIDI, while Tap2Find searches the groove library. The Grid Editor and step sequencer support direct programming, and Song Creator and Song Track editing help assemble and revise arrangements. A mixer provides adjustable levels and effects, while electronic-drum mapping and velocity-response controls address e-drum setups. It also lists compatibility with Pro Tools, Cubase, GarageBand, Logic Pro, and Reaper. This mix of library, search, editing, and performance controls suits producers who want to move from a groove idea to an arranged drum part without leaving the software.
According to Toontrack’s published pricing, the Regular version costs $179 as a one-time purchase and includes the full EZdrummer 3 production version. The $99 one-time Upgrade is for owners of a previous EZdrummer version. A 10-day trial is available, but there is no free plan. EZdrummer 3 is a strong fit for users seeking guided drum writing, a substantial MIDI library, and e-drum controls; producers looking for instruments beyond drums should consider a broader virtual-instrument tool instead.
EZdrummer 3 pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Includes seven recorded drum kits and more than 2,500 grooves and fills
- Bandmate suggestions and Tap2Find help locate grooves for a song
- Song Creator, editing, mixing, and e-drum controls are built in
- Where it doesn't
- Focused on drums rather than a broad virtual-instrument collection
- The $99 Upgrade requires ownership of a previous EZdrummer version
- Paid product, with the Regular version priced at $179 one-time
EZdrummer 3 fact sheet, pricing and score →
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