Grab a 12-inch gum rubber practice pad (like an Evans RealFeel) and a pair of 5A sticks. It’s the cheapest, most effective way to start.
A simple slab of rubber or silicone on wood. It makes almost no sound and is purely for developing stick control, speed, and rudiments. buy drum pad
Consider where the pad will live. Most practice pads have an 8mm threaded insert on the bottom so they can screw onto a standard cymbal stand. Electronic pads often require a specific mounting plate. If you plan to travel, an 6-inch to 8-inch pad fits in a backpack; a 12-inch pad feels more like a real snare drum but requires its own bag. Final Recommendation Grab a 12-inch gum rubber practice pad (like