An excellent headphone is essential for a drummer, and you surely don't want to compromise on that as the music soothes the soul. Keeping your hearing capabilities in check while beating the drums is also essential. Going for headphones that are specially designed for drumming should be your first choice. So with the help of my friend who has been a drummer for several years now I've come up with a list of best headphones for drumming in 2021. It includes top-recommended headsets based on comfort and performance levels.
Quick Answer: Best Top-Rated Headphones for Drumming in 2021
- BEST OVERALL: KAT Percussion KTUI26 Drumming Headphone
- BEST CHOICE: Shure SRH440 Drumming Headphone
- BEST VALUE: Sennheiser HD 280 PRO Drumming Headphone
- Vic Firth Stereo Drumming Headphone
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Drumming Headphone
- KAT Percussion KTUI26 Ultra Drumming Headphone
- Etymotic Research HF5 Drumming Headphone
- Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Drumming Headphone
- Direct Sound EX-29 Drumming Headphone
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Drumming Headphone
So, let’s not make you wait and take a look at feature, specification as well as overview of my Top 3 Drumming Headphones. Furthermore, our comparison table at the end will help you choose the right one for you.
Top 3 Overall Best Headphones For Drumming Under $100
| BEST OVERALL 🏆 | PREMIUM CHOICE 💎 | BEST VALUE 💲 | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
|
| NAME | KAT KTUI26 Drumming Headphone | Shure SRH440 Drumming Headphone | Sennheiser HD 280 PRO Drumming Headphone |
| SPECIAL | Excellent Noise Isolation ✅ | Amazon's Choice ✅ | Amazon's Choice ✅ |
| DRIVERS | 40mm | 40mm | N/A |
| CONNECTIVITY | Wired | Wired | Wired |
| Frequency R | 20-20kHz | 10-22kHz | 8-25kHz |
| RATINGS | 4.2 / 5 | 3.7 / 5 | 4.1 / 5 |
Note: Scroll/Swipe Horizontally To View All Sections Of Table 
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.4 | Type: Wired
A well-built, durable and great-sounding closed-back headset built by a German company which is experienced in producing audio accessories especially headphones.
Design
The headset provides a high level of comfort with cushioned circular ear cups and thick metal frame which comes with a removable cushion strap. It might seem a bit bulky but still looks great in a crowdy environment. The earcups are covered with a soft microfiber fabric which makes it great for long listening sessions as well as makes it fit for most listeners. The breathability of DT 770 Pro is pretty good due to its fantastic design, but it might not be very portable as the ear cups don't fold or lay flat, but you'll get a carrying case which will protect headphone against scratches and water exposure. The headset is sturdy and durable due to its solid metal frame and can handle several drops without getting damaged. Its sufficiently tight on your head which makes improves the stability, but the cable is non-detachable, so combining with bulkiness they're not suitable if you want to use them in the gym as well. Well, apparently we're considering them for Drumming, so that's not a big deal. In the box along with DT 770 Pro, you will get 1/8 to 1/4 adapter, a manual and a carrying pouch.
Performance
The DT 770 Pro is a great-sounding headphone with fantastic extended bass and amazing mid-range. The low-bass is flat and extended and is nearly flawless. Meanwhile the high-bass is slightly thin. The midrange is consistent, stable and excellent with virtually flat response. It has excellent frequency response consistency with approximately 6DB of variance at 30Hz. The soundstage is above average; meanwhile, the total harmonic distortion is impressive. It also provides a great deal of noise isolation due to its design but might leak a bit which is not very loud though. On the downside, there's no microphone or any active feature and can be connected using wire. Overall its one of the best headphone for drummers to consider.
Specifications
| Transducer Type: | Dynamic |
| Ear Coupling: | Circumaural |
| Power Handling: | 100mW |
| Frequency Response: | 5Hz-35kHz |
| Weight: | 0.64 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 3m Coiled Cable |
| Impedence: | 250 Ohms |
| Nominal Sound Pressure Level: | 96 dB |
| Dimensions: | 7 x 4 x 8.5 in |
Sennheiser HD 280 PRO Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.2/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice 
When it comes to headphones, Sennheiser is the brand you probably have already heard of. The German company produces a wide range of quality audio accessories and same goes with HD 280 Pro which is among the best for drummers.
Design
The all-black headset wasn't one of the best in terms of comfort, so the company introduced a new model after improving the overall design making it more comfortable and giving it a premium look. The build quality has improved a lot in the newer version and can handle several blows without taking any damage. Meanwhile, you might not find it portable as it is not fully foldable and also comes with a wire. However, the ear cups and headband is well-padded which makes it fit comfortably on your ears as well as keep it tight on your head without pushing it too hard so you can go for more extended sessions. On the downside, the headset doesn't provide any control scheme and is not breathable due to its extra seal. The headphone is pretty stable on your head with fantastic build quality. Moreover, in the package along with HD 280 Pro, you will get 1/8 to 1/4 Adapter and a manual.
Performance
The sound quality of the closed-back over-ear headset is impressive. It produces thumpy and deep base along with stable mid-range and well-balanced treble. If I were to rate the base and mids for this headset, it would undoubtedly be above 8.5 out of 10. The fans of heavy bass music would also love this headphone as almost 3dB hypes the music. The mid-range responsible for the body of bass guitars and punch as well as the high-bass responsible for warmth are within 0.5dB and 2dB respectively. The treble is fantastic with an overall well-balanced response. Meanwhile, the soundstage might not impress you much still its above average. Moreover, the total harmonic distortion of headphone is pretty decent with sufficient leakage proofing. The design of headphone makes the isolation performance better but might be a bit lacking in a crowded environment. If you're a microphone must have guy then you'll surely have to drop this headset as it doesn't support mic. Overall the headphone is perfect for drummers, and you can give it a try for sure.
Specifications
| Ear Coupling: | Circumaural |
| Frequency Response: | 8 - 25000 Hz |
| Weight: | 1.28 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 3.3 - 9.8 feet Coiled Cable |
| Impedence: | 64 Ohms |
| Sound Pressure Level: | 113 dB |
| Dimensions: | 9.6 x 7.4 x 3.3 in |
Shure SRH440 Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 3.9/5 | Type: Wired
Amazon's Choice
A well known American company which has produced various audio accessories launched the SRH 440 model, and it could deliver well for drummers. The design looks premium; however you might want more, so let's have a look at the features it offers.
Design
The Shure SRH 440 has a practical design and somewhat looks like Audio-Technica ATH-M50x meanwhile this look works well for some. The thick headband is well padded along with well cushioned dense ear cups which are oval. Overall the headset looks durable, and comfort level is fantastic as the headband is not too tight and doesn't push too hard on your ears allowing you to go for extended sessions. Most of the build is plastic and lightweight. There are no controls available to manage it; meanwhile, the breathability is better than HD 280 Pro. Like most of the headsets it's not portable but can be folded into a more compact form, but you'll get a case along with headset which is soft and perfect for protecting headphone from scratches. Well if you want to consider them for sports, they're not suitable for that purpose due to average stability meanwhile the cable is detachable. In the box along with Shure SRH440, you will get a carrying pouch, audio cable, and 1/8 to 1/4 adapter.
Performance
In terms of sound and performance, SRH 440 performs well. The base is fantastic with well-balanced mid range and fantastic treble range performance. Meanwhile, you might notice that sub-bass is prone to inconsistencies across different individuals as well as Treble is a bit sharp. The low-frequency extension is pretty decent with 50Hz meanwhile the bass delivery is excellent and varies across users depending on the seal and whether you wear glasses etc. The mid-range response is virtually flat but consistent and well-balanced. I wouldn't say the Frequency response consistency is excellent but its average meanwhile the treble consistency is right. In the case of soundstage and total harmonic distortion, I'd rate it 7 out of 10. The headphone provides a low level of isolation depending on the environment but on the positive note leakage is minimal. There is no microphone or active feature in the SRH 440.
Specifications
| Drivers: | 40mm Neodymium Driver |
| Frequency Response: | 10 Hz - 22 kHz |
| Weight: | 0.60 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 9.8-foot (3.0 m) Coiled Detachable Cable |
| Impedence: | 44 Ohms |
| Max Input Power: | 500 mW |
| Sensitivity: | 105 dB/mW |
| Dimensions: | 4.5 x 8.5 x 9.5 in |
Vic Firth Stereo Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.0/5 | Type: Wired
In terms of hearing protection along with amazing sound quality and comfort Vic is right up at the top and for good reasons. The noise isolation and stereo sound production makes it wanted and all of that in an amazing price range.
Design
The durability and build quality of the headset is fantastic. The earpieces are consist of rubber and are pretty solid, but the glue used to could cause some problem. Moreover, the headphone contains a solid stereo inside which might make it a bit heavy than most of the other headsets. It supports serious foam and insulation as well as fits comfortably on your ears without pushing too hard which makes it suitable for long sessions. The tight seal minimizes the sound leakage, but it could also lead to low breathability of the headset. It's not portable due to its non-foldable design. However, the headband and ear cups are well cushioned to provide comfort. In the box you'll get 6' cable, 1/8" and 14" adapter and a manual along with the headset.
Performance
The flat response makes the sound quality amazing. The bass is stable, consistent and thumpy. As the headset is designed to protect your ears, it doesn't overemphasize but provides a daily wearers' experience. The midrange is pretty stable with sweet treble. Headphone performances great in terms of frequency response consistency but the soundstage is average. The headset performs an outstanding job at cutting out ambient noises. Vic Firth Stereo can limit overall sound by up to 24dB which makes it even better than some noise-canceling dedicated headphones. Overall it performs well and is among the top choices for drummers.
Specifications
| Drivers: | 50mm |
| Fit Style: | Circumaural (Around the Ear) |
| Weight: | 0.85 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 6FT Straight Cord |
| Passive Noise Reduction: | 25 dB |
| Dimensions: | 19 x 19 x 19 in |
KAT Percussion KTUI26 Ultra Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.2/5 | Type: Wired
Although you might not have heard much about KAT due to their lack of branding and experience of marketing in the market, they have indeed produced something which attracted most of the drummers and got it listed among best in the list. So what are its specs lets have a look into it?
Design
The headband of the headset is wide along with sort of oval-shaped ear cups. Moreover, the ear cups are well cushioned and provide a perfect seal around ears which minimizes the leakage of sound as well as make it suitable for more extended sessions. It doesn't push too hard on your ears and is lightweight as well. The headphone is durable but might not be portable as most of the headsets are not because they can't be folded into a much compact form. As made for the drummers it's only wired and doesn't come with any battery or active feature. In the box, you'll get 1/8" stereo jack with 1/4" adapter along with the headset.
Performance
The headphone is known for its ultra isolation. The passive isolation reduces external noises significantly without the need for any batteries. It is due to its well-cushioned design which makes it fit perfectly allowing it to perform well in terms of isolation. It makes practicing acoustic drums just like a studio mix. The bass is stable and consistent along with well-balanced mids. You might experience a bit of muddy effect, but it's not something which affects it much. The frequency response consistency and soundstage are average. Meanwhile, the breathability is something you might want to consider as due to compact sealing its not good in that manner. However total harmonic distortion is excellent. Overall this headphone is a perfect option for drummers.
Specifications
| Drivers: | 40mm |
| Frequency: | 20 - 20,000 Hz |
| External Noise Reduction: | 26 dB |
| Weight: | 0.94 lbs |
| Connectors: | 1/8" Stereo Headphone Jack with 1/4" Adapter |
| Dimensions: | 9.25 x 3.75 x 6.25 in |
Etymotic Research HF5 Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 3.6/5 | Type: Wired
Etymotic Research with being under the parent organization of Lucid Audio has been around since 1983 and has produced various earphones. One of their latest product which got the hype due to its noise-isolation is HF5.
Design
Like most of the headphones, it's not bulky as it comes in a compact size so if you are among those who don't wanna go for bulky headset and looking for something portable and easy to manage the HF5 is the best option for you. The earphone is quite sturdy with long lasting and tangles free cable. It even comes with a 2-year warranty which shows the confidence of the company in the quality of the product. It comes with different types of ear tips which makes it fit for different ear sizes. In the box along with HF5 earphones, you will get an assortment of ear tips, filter removal tool, and replacement filters as well as carrying pouch. Overall the headset is easy to carry and pretty comfortable.
Performance
The excellent sound quality of this earphone is majorly due to its seal which makes enhances the performance and bass. Even low bass frequencies without overpowering the mix in electronic music hit hard which makes it well-balanced and punchy at right spots. The mids are clear and consistent; meanwhile, the highs were brilliant with frequency range rolls off at the 15kHz range. Moreover, the Impedance is 16 Ohms, with a maximum output of 120dB and balanced armature driver type. The soundstage isn't that great, but total harmonic distortion is fantastic. Due to its in-ear seal, the isolation is splendid and cuts out significant ambient noises. In the price range its great in-ear mixing earphone if you don't want to go for bulky ones.
Specifications
| Frequency: | 20 Hz – 15 kHz |
| Best Noise Isolation: | 35 dB - 42 dB |
| Weight: | 0.48 lbs |
| Connectors: | Reinforced 4 ft Cable |
| Dimensions: | 1.5 x 7.25 x 6 in |
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.1/5 | Type: Wired
A well designed, reference-class, semi-open studio headset which contains strength and transparency along with special housings and enhanced system of equalization. I have already mentioned 770 Pro above, but 880 Pro has its uniqueness in terms of design, comfort, and performance.
Design
In terms of look, the DT 880 Pro looks similar to DT 990 Pro, but it comes with unique finishes and different design. The ear cups are circular, and semi-open along with comfortable cushioning. Moreover, the headband is cushioned and pretty adjustable as well. The metal enclosures make it look premium and also enhances the durability of the headset. The microfiber fabric used in construction feels good on the skin, and it doesn't push too hard on your ears which makes it suitable for more extended sessions. The breathability is pretty amazing, but it's not portable as it couldn't be folded into a compact form. However, you'll get a soft carrying case which shields the headphone from scratches and minor water damages. The cable is non-detachable as well as it doesn't come with any control scheme. In the box along with DT 880 Pro, you will get 1/8" to 1/4" Adapter, a manual and a carrying case.
Performance
The sound quality of headphone is terrific and consistent. Mid-range is fantastic, and the response seems flawless. It has decent bass range performance with low-frequency extension point of 92Hz which isn't that good, but it produces enough rumble for fans of Bass. Meanwhile, the frequency response consistency is amazing, but the soundstage is not impressive. The total harmonic distortion of headphone is above average. In terms of noise isolation and sound leakage the headphone is not remarkable as well as there are no active features and microphone.
Specifications
| Frequency: | 5Hz-35kHz |
| Weight: | 1.3 lbs |
| Connectors: | 3.0m Coiled Cable |
| Impedence: | 250 Ohms |
| Nominal Sound Pressure Level: | 96 dB |
| Dimensions: | 9.4 x 4.7 x 11.2 in |
Direct Sound EX-29 Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 3.5/5 | Type: Wired
The EX-29s got a unique design and fashion in terms of color. Well, they might not feel very innovative, but they are comfortable. Its one of the best headset for drummers as it allows them both mix and acoustic drums clearly at ear-saving levels.
Design
From the design perspective, the headset is mediocre. The ear cups are well padded and can easily fit on your ear. Meanwhile, the headband has got padding as well, but it doesn't seem premium. One significant feature it has is that it contains Red color coded felt insert for the right side, so you don't have to look for Right's R or Left's L. The earcups contain the branding of the company. The padding allows it to fit on your ear without pushing too hard which makes it suitable for extended sessions. In the box, you will get stereo 1/8" (3.5mm) gold-plated with screw-on 1/4" (6.3mm) gold-plated adapter and a manual along with EX29.
Performance
The sound quality of EX-29 is fantastic along with clarity. The bass is stable and consistent; meanwhile, the frequency response of the headset is 20-20,000 Hz. The midrange is clear with well-balanced frequency. In terms of soundstage and breathability, the headset might not impress you, but the total harmonic distortion is pretty amazing. It doesn't support any active feature or microphone. The cord is 9 feet which is normal. It provides significant isolation, and the sound leakage is minimal as well. Overall the headset is average.
Specifications
| Drivers: | 40mm - Dynamic Closed Back Drivers |
| Weight: | 1.1 lbs |
| Connectors: | Straight Stereo 1/8" (3.5 mm) Gold-Glated |
| Frequency Response: | 20 - 20,000 hz |
| Passive Isolation: | 29 dB |
| Impedence: | 32 Ohms |
| Maximum Input Power: | Max 1W |
| Sensitivity: | 114db at 1KHZ 1mW |
| Dimensions: | 6 x 6 x 4.5 in |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.5/5 | Type: Wired
Audio-Technica has improved significantly recently and has earned respect in the audio world; meanwhile, their most popular product by far is ATH-M50x. The design along with fantastic performance and moderate price played a vital role in doing so.
Design
In terms of style and design, there is no significant change as compared to ATH-M40x. It has a bland, well-built, durable and sturdy design. The ear cups are large and circular which fit comfortably around your ears. The cups don't push too hard which makes the headset suitable for extended sessions. Also, the earpieces are well cushioned which enhances the comfort level. The headband is adjustable and also well-padded for an improved experience. Meanwhile, the headset comes in five different colors including Black, Blue, Red, White and Gun Metal which allows you to choose what suits you. The earcups contain the branding of the company. Unfortunately, it doesn't offer any control scheme and in terms of breathability its average. Like most of the headphones, it's not portable and can't be folded into a compact format which can be easily carried. However, you will get a pouch along with the headset which protects it from scratches. The headphone isn't suitable for workout or exercises due to less stability. Overall the build quality of the headphone is impressive, and the metal frame reinforcement makes it durable. In the box along with ATH-M50X, you will get carrying pouch, three audio cables and 1/8" to 1/4" Adapter.
Performance
The ATH-M50x has a fantastic sounding capability and its amazing in terms of bass and mid-range. The bass is excellent with the low-frequency extension of 15Hz; sub-bass is overemphasized by less than 1dB which ensures a thick base with the right amount of rumble and thump. Mid-base which is responsible for the body of bass guitars and the kick of drums is also flat. The mids are great; meanwhile, the low-mid is underemphasized by 2dB. In terms of treble, it performs really well with a well-balanced overall response. Frequency response consistency is mediocre, and the same goes with soundstage, but total harmonic distortion is great with overall amoung of THD being low. The noise isolation of headset is average and can cut out a significant amount of ambient noises. Also in terms of leakage, its above average and could manage sound inside due to its design. It doesn't support any active feature or microphone.
Specifications
| Driver Size: | 40 mm |
| Sensitivity: | 96 dB |
| Weight: | 0.42 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 3.0 m (9.8'), Straight, Left-side Exit |
| Impedence: | 47 Ohms |
| Frequency Response: | 15-20,000 Hz |
| Max Input Power: | 700 mW |
| Earcup Swivel: | 15° Both Directions |
| Dimensions: | 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 in |
Shure SE846-CL Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.4/5 | Type: Wired
When it comes to Shure SE846, the main factor which clicks the most for the consumer is its price. From the looks, it might seem a 20-40$ earphone but the price is jaw-dropping (around $1000), and I also responded in disbelief when I first checked it. The look if Shure SE846 doesn't give any hint about the price tag but in this case are we just paying for the tag or there's also technology powering it? Indeed, it's not something you could buy without going over and over again. So let's have a look at this piece.
Design
The size of SE846 is comparatively more significant than the others in the series because each earpiece fits in four drivers. Yeah, four separate drivers per ear allowing to go for more. The dedicated armature drivers ones for lower-end frequencies help in recreating bass-frequencies at the same level of a bog-standard dynamic driver. You can also see micro drivers from outside of the casing shells. The design allows you to wear them over the ear with a piece of shape-maintaining wire. They're absolutely not for everyone due to their design and pricing point. The cables of SE846 are removable. It is available in clear, bronze, black and blue finish options and contains branding of the company on each earpiece. In the package you will get a Bluetooth 4.1 communication cable, a standard 3.5mm Audio Cable, a Micro-USB charging cable, a clothing clip, a 6.3mm adapter, an airline adapter, a pair of nozzle inserts, a nozzle removal key, a premium carrying case, a universal 3.5mm communication cable and a fit kit with wide variety of sleeves.
Performance
Due to the price the expectations are higher as well in terms of sound quality, and for the most part they perform up to expectations. The bass of SE846 is tremendous with well-balanced and power mid-range. There is not even a single hint of unbalancing. The transition between mids and bass is impressive. It restricts the frequencies the "sub" driver needs to deliver making it more effective at the one it produces. The treble is fantastic and can sparkle. The frequency response consistency is excellent with perfect total harmonic distortion. Overall the earphone is superior with powerful features, but you should go for it only if you really want to get out most of it due to its pricing.
Specifications
| Driver: | Four Hi Def Drivers |
| Sensitivity: | 114 dB SPL/mW |
| Weight: | 1.9 lbs |
| Frequency Response: | 15 Hz–20 kHz |
| Cable Length: | 46″ and 64″ |
| Noise Attenuation: | Up to 37 dB |
| Impedence: | 16 Ω |
| Dimensions: | 9.1 x 2.6 x 5.7 in |
OneOdio Pro-001-CA Drumming Headphone
Ratings: 4.4/5 | Type: Wired
You might not have heard about the brand, but due to its low budget and innovative design along with pretty good performance, it has made into this list. Its stylish and looks excellent meanwhile comes with 50mm high-performing driver.
Design
The stylish matte black pair, with red detailing and chrome supported by well-padded ear cups and well-cushioned headband, provides you sufficient comfort. Meanwhile, the headband is adjustable, and the ear cups don't push too hard on your ears which makes it suitable for extended sessions. The sound leakage is minimal, but depending on individuals it might vary. It contains a sort of branding on the sides of ear pieces. The gold plated plugs of 3.5mm and 6.3mm on each end of audio cable simply fulfill your needs. It's not portable but could be folded into a bit compact design. The ear cups can swivel to lay flat and also flip upward to fit neatly in the bag. In the box, you will get one dual-duty cable for 6.3mm and 3.5mm sockets along with one dual-duty cable for 3.5mm sockets with play/pause button, one designed pouch and a manual along with the headset.
Performance
This product will not disappoint you if you keep it in check with the price range as it offers significant features, but surely it won't be able to provide results as expensive headsets can. The sound quality is mediocre with solid bass and well-balanced mid-range. The frequency response consistency is above average as well as the total harmonic distortion. Meanwhile, the soundstage is not very impressive. The headset is adapter free and comes with a plug which can be handy when you perform your DJ sessions.
Specifications
| Speaker: | 50mm |
| Sensitivity: | 110dB +- 3dB |
| Weight: | 0.88 lbs |
| Cable Length: | 1.5m-2.8m Coiled Cable |
| Impedence: | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency Response: | 20Hz-20KHz |
| Max Power: | 300mW |
| Plug Type: | 3.5mm/6.35mm Stereo |
| Dimensions: | 6.6 x 6.4 x 4.1 in |
Are you looking for a headset that can be used for mixing and mastering as well? Check out our best headphones for both guide to know what's best in the market.
Contents
- 1 Quick Answer: Best Top-Rated Headphones for Drumming in 2021
- 2 Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Drumming Headphone
- 3 Sennheiser HD 280 PRO Drumming Headphone
- 4 Shure SRH440 Drumming Headphone
- 5 Vic Firth Stereo Drumming Headphone
- 6 KAT Percussion KTUI26 Ultra Drumming Headphone
- 7 Etymotic Research HF5 Drumming Headphone
- 8 Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Drumming Headphone
- 9 Direct Sound EX-29 Drumming Headphone
- 10 Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Drumming Headphone
- 11 Shure SE846-CL Drumming Headphone
- 12 OneOdio Pro-001-CA Drumming Headphone