Best Drumheads of 2026

Joseph Hubbard Avatar
Joseph Hubbard
Last Updated: Jan 10, 2026

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Drumheads are an essential component of any drum kit. They are the thin, circular membranes that cover the top and bottom of the drum shell, creating the sound when struck with a drumstick or mallet. Drumheads come in a variety of sizes and materials, each producing a unique tone and sound quality. They can be made from materials such as animal skin, synthetic materials, or a combination of both. Drummers can choose from a range of drumheads to achieve the desired sound for their music genre and playing style.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Evans EC2S Clear Fusion Tompack Cover #TOP 1
Evans EC2S Clear Fusion Tompack
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Roland MH2-12 Mesh Head Cover #TOP 2
Roland MH2-12 Mesh Head
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Evans EC2S Clear Tompack Cover #TOP 3
Evans EC2S Clear Tompack
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Drumheads

#TOP 1

Evans EC2S Clear Fusion Tompack

ETP-EC2SCLR-F
EC2 Clear
Tompack-10",12",14"
Evans EC2S Clear Fusion Tompack Cover
Evans Drum Heads - EC2S Clear Fusion Tompack (10 inch, 12 inch, 14 inch)

The Evans EC2S Tompack features two layers of 7mil film, giving you a rich tone and longer sustain while making it easier to tune your drums. With Sound Shaping Technology, these drumheads provide a balanced sound and a sharp attack, enhancing your overall performance. Additionally, the Level 360 Technology ensures that you can tune your drumheads effortlessly, while also expanding their pitch range for a superior sound quality. Made in the USA, these drumheads are built to last and deliver exceptional sound for any drummer.

What We Like
Optimized tone and sustain
Balanced sound with focused attack
Easy tuning and pitch range
Durable, high-quality construction
#TOP 2

Roland MH2-12 Mesh Head

MH2-12
white
12 Inch Mesh Head
Roland MH2-12 Mesh Head Cover
Roland PowerPly MH2-12 Dual-Ply Mesh Head, 12-Inch

The Roland MH2-12 Mesh Head is a durable dual-ply mesh head that offers a quiet playing experience, making it ideal for home practice sessions. It is compatible with Roland RT-30 series Acoustic Drum Triggers, enhancing versatility. Available in various sizes for snares, toms, and bass drums, this mesh head can also serve as a replacement for V-Drums V-Pads, excluding PDX-8 and PDX-6 models. Enjoy a long-lasting and quiet drumming experience with the Roland Mesh Head.

What We Like
Durable Dual-Ply
Quiet Playing
Versatile Compatibility
#TOP 3

Evans EC2S Clear Tompack

ETP-EC2SCLR-S
EC2 Clear
Tompack-12",13",16"
Evans EC2S Clear Tompack Cover
Evans Drum Heads - EC2S Clear Standard Tompack (12 inch, 13 inch, 16 inch)

The Evans EC2S Drumheads offer exceptional performance for drummers. With their dual layers of 7mil film, these heads provide a rich tone, extended sustain, and simplified tuning process. The innovative Sound Shaping Technology ensures a well-rounded sound and precise attack, making it easier for you to achieve your desired sound quality. Additionally, the Level 360 Technology enhances your tuning experience, allowing for a wider pitch range and superior sound output. Whether you're playing in a studio or on stage, these drumheads are designed to meet your needs.

What We Like
Optimized tone and sustain
Well-balanced sound quality
Easy tuning process
Extended pitch range
#TOP 4

Evans Tri-Center Conga Drum Head

EC1175E
ivory
11.75 Inch
Evans Tri-Center Conga Drum Head Cover
Evans Tri-Center Conga, 11 3/4 inch-Drum Head

The Evans Conga Drum Head is designed for superior sound quality and playability. Its dual layers of durable film provide a bright, cutting slap tone while maintaining a rich low-end. You’ll appreciate the etched texture that mimics the feel of natural skin, giving you a familiar playing experience without the drawbacks of real animal skins. Additionally, the Tri-Center design reduces unwanted overtones and adds weight to enhance the fundamental tone, making your playing more precise and powerful. This drum head is also compatible with larger hoop congas, ensuring a perfect fit for your instrument.

What We Like
Bright, penetrating slap tone
Reduces unwanted overtones
Durable, skin-like texture
Fits larger hoop congas
#TOP 5

Evans Heavyweight Coated Drumhead

B13HW
Black
13 Inch
Evans Heavyweight Coated Drumhead Cover
Evans Heavyweight Coated Drumhead - Coated Snare Drum Head - Reverse Dot for Durability, Focus, Attack - 2 Plies of Film - 13 Inch

The Evans Heavyweight Drumhead is designed for snare drummers seeking durability and sound quality. With its two-ply construction, this drumhead ensures a strong response and a focused sound, making it ideal for various playing styles. The added reverse dot enhances its durability and attack, giving you a powerful punch in your performance. Plus, the Level 360 Technology allows for easy tuning and an extended pitch range, so you can achieve the perfect sound without hassle. You can also earn Players Circle points by registering your purchase, adding extra value to your investment.

What We Like
Durable two-ply construction
Enhanced attack and focus
Easy tuning with Level 360
Earn rewards through registration
#TOP 6

Latin Percussion Aspire 8" Bongo Head

LPA663B
Natural
8" Bongo
Latin Percussion Aspire 8" Bongo Head Cover
LP Aspire 8" Bongo Head

The LP Aspire Bongo Head is designed specifically for the LP Aspire 8-inch bongos, ensuring a perfect fit for your drum. Made from natural rawhide, this drumhead delivers an authentic sound and feel, enhancing your playing experience. Keep in mind, this bongo head is tailored for LP Aspire bongos only and won't fit drums from other brands. This means you get a replacement that guarantees compatibility and quality, making it a convenient choice for maintaining your instrument’s tone and performance.

What We Like
Perfect fit for LP Aspire bongos
Natural rawhide material
Authentic sound quality
Brand-specific compatibility
#TOP 7

RTOM Low Volume Mesh Head Starter Pack

ALVMHKIT
RTOM Low Volume Mesh Head Starter Pack Cover
RTOM - Low Volume Mesh Head Starter Pack (10",12",14",16" & 22")

The RTOM Low Volume Mesh Heads offer a great solution for drummers looking to practice without loud noise. These heads are made with durable mesh material that can withstand heavy use, making them perfect for regular practice sessions. They provide a quieter, more controlled sound, so you can focus on your technique without disturbing others. Plus, the specially designed sound patch gives a more realistic feel and a clear, audible attack, helping you play with better expression. Available in multiple sizes, this pack covers all your basic drum needs.

What We Like
Quiet practice
Durable mesh material
Realistic sound patch
Multiple sizes included
#TOP 8

Remo 9.75" Conga Drumhead

M4-0975-F5-D
beige,silver
9.75-inch
Remo 9.75" Conga Drumhead Cover
Remo Conga Drumhead, Symmetry, 9.75" D2, FIBERSKYN®

The Remo Conga Drumhead features a 9.75" diameter design that enhances your playing experience. This Fiberskyn drumhead is specifically made to fit various models, including LP Aspire and CP series. Its innovative construction offers flexibility in manufacturing, allowing for a wider range of compatible drumhead sizes. Additionally, the crimp lock design ensures that the drumhead can fit more conga models from different brands, providing you with versatility in your drumming setup. With this drumhead, you'll enjoy improved sound quality and ease of installation.

What We Like
Fits various conga models
Enhanced sound quality
Flexible manufacturing design
Easy installation
#TOP 9

Latin Percussion Aspire 6.75" Bongo Head

LPA663A
Natural
6 3/4" Bongo
Latin Percussion Aspire 6.75" Bongo Head Cover
LP Aspire 6.75" Bongo Head

The LP Aspire Bongo Head is designed specifically to fit 6.75-inch bongos from the LP Aspire series, ensuring a perfect match for your drum. Made from natural rawhide, this drumhead offers an authentic sound and feel, enhancing your playing experience. Keep in mind, this bongo head is tailored only for LP Aspire bongos, so it won’t fit drums from other brands. Choosing this drumhead means you can easily replace worn-out heads with a product made for your specific instrument, helping you maintain great sound quality and performance.

What We Like
Perfect fit for LP Aspire bongos
Natural rawhide material
Authentic sound quality
Exclusive to LP Aspire series
#TOP 10

Latin Percussion LPA640B Aspire 11" Rawhide Conga Head

LPA640B
Natural
Latin Percussion LPA640B Aspire 11" Rawhide Conga Head Cover
Latin Percussion LPA640B Aspire 11-Inch Rawhide Conga Head

The Latin Percussion Aspire Conga Head is designed specifically for LP Aspire 11-inch congas with an EZ Curve rim, ensuring a perfect fit for your instrument. Made from natural rawhide, this drumhead offers authentic sound quality and durability, enhancing your playing experience. Keep in mind, this drumhead is crafted exclusively for LP Aspire drums, so it won't fit other brands. If you want a reliable replacement head that matches your LP Aspire conga, this product provides a convenient and high-quality option to maintain your drum's tone and performance.

What We Like
Perfect fit for LP Aspire 11" congas
Natural rawhide material
EZ Curve rim compatibility
Exclusive to LP Aspire drums
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the two types of drum heads?

There are two main types of drum heads: single-ply and double-ply. Single-ply drum heads consist of one layer of film, while double-ply drum heads have two layers. The thickness of the head affects the sound and durability of the drum.

2. What is the purpose of a drum head?

The main purpose of a drum head is to eliminate overtones and focus the overall tone of the drum. Drummers may use techniques like adding a layer of Mylar or other material to the top or underside of the outer edge to achieve this.

3. What are the 3 main types of drums?

The three main types of drums are the bass drum, tom toms, and snare drum. Drummers often customize their drum kits based on the style of music and the desired sound and volume of the band.

4. Why do drummers put towels on their heads?

Drummers sometimes lay tea towels on their drum heads to dampen the sound and soften the attack. This technique was popularized by the Beatles and can be used to achieve a specific sound, as heard in songs like 'Let it Be' or 'Abbey Road'.

5. Why do drummers put tape on their drum heads?

Drummers may use tape on their drum heads for two reasons. Firstly, tape can be used to dampen the sound of the drum, producing a more muted sound that may be desired in certain musical contexts or when playing in small spaces. Secondly, tape can also be used to protect the drum head from damage.

Editor's Notes

During our drumhead research, we found 24 drumhead products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 20,016 customer reviews through our big data system to write the drumheads list. We found that most customers choose drumheads with an average price of $43.74.

The drumheads are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of drumheads, including Evans, Roland, Latin Percussion, RTOM, Remo. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Joseph Hubbard Avatar

Joseph Hubbard is a music producer and runs a musical instrument store in Chicago. Joseph is happy to help others choose the instrument that best suits their needs. He loves everything related to music and often publishes articles related to music on key websites.