The Best Headphones For DJs: 2023 Reviews

We reviewed the best DJ headphones currently on the market to help you choose your next pair.

Headphones are one of the most important tools in the DJ’s toolbelt, necessary for every gig as well as every practice session at your local professional DJ studios. When it comes to selecting the best headphones for DJs, there are a few key factors to consider, such as sound quality, durability, comfort, and noise isolation.

Headphones are the first piece of DJ equipment you'll need to buy, even before trying to find the best DJ controllers or worrying about different DJ mixer types. Below are some of the top options available on the market (at various price ranges) to help you make your choice.

What to look for when buying DJ headphones

Here the team at Pirate break down some of the most important factors when finding your ideal cans.

Sound quality

High-quality sound is important to hear and mix music accurately.

Noise isolation

Good noise isolation can help you hear the music clearly in noisy environments.

Comfort

Comfortable headphones can be worn for longer periods without causing discomfort or pain.

Durability

Durable headphones can withstand wear and tear from regular use.

Budget

Consider your budget when purchasing headphones as prices can vary widely. If learning how to DJ, you might not need to invest as much in headphones compared to a gigging DJ.

Aesthetics

Aesthetics are a personal choice and can affect the style and look of your headphones.

Wired headphones or wireless?

Consider whether you prefer the convenience of wireless headphones or the reliability of wired headphones

On-ear vs over-ear?

On-ear headphones are smaller and lighter, while over-ear headphones provide better noise isolation and sound quality.

Studio headphones vs DJ headphones

DJ headphones are designed to withstand the rigoursrigors of live performance, while studio headphones are designed for accurate sound reproduction.

BEST DJ HEADPHONES FOR 2023: PIRATE’S TOP PICKS

• Best DJ headphones for beginners: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
• Best stylish headphones: V-MODA Crossfade M-100
• Best customisable headphones: Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus
• Best headphones for high-end sound quality: Pioneer HDJ-X10
• Best wireless/Bluetooth headphones: Sennheiser HD 450BT
• Best over-ear headphones: Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
• Best on-ear headphones: Sennheiser HD25
• Best headphones for comfort: Focal Clear Professional
• Best headphones for mixing EDM: Pioneer HDJ-X10
• Best affordable headphones: Samson SR850
• Best high-end headphones: Pioneer HDJ-X10
• Best noise cancelling headphones: Sennheiser HD 450BT
• Best headphones for mixing and producing: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
• Best DJ headphones with microphone: V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless
• Can headphones damage your hearing?
• How to take care of your new pair of headphones?

Best for beginners: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

Price: £39-£45

Audio-Technica’s ATH-M20x makes great value for beginners. Featuring a closed-back design for noise isolation, durable construction, and good sound quality, the ATH-M20x is perfect for DJs on a budget.

Features:

• 40mm drivers that provide a wide frequency range and excellent sound quality
• Over-ear design with comfortable, contoured ear cups that provide good sound isolation
• Adjustable headband that provides a comfortable fit for various head sizes
• Single-sided cable that reduces tangles and allows for easy one-ear monitoring
• Durable and lightweight build quality that makes them easy to wear for extended periods of time
• Comes with a 1/4" adapter for compatibility with a variety of audio devices
• Collapsible design for easy storage and transportation

Pros:

• Affordable for beginners
• Durable and built to last
• Good noise isolation
• Single-sided cable for convenience

Cons:

• May not have the same sound quality as higher-end models
• May not be as comfortable as other models

Best for looks: V-MODA Crossfade M-100

Price: £209-£250

V-MODA’s Crossfade M-100 boasts a uniquely durable design relative to other models in the market.

A solid pair, these cans feature customizable shields that allow for personalized appearances. The Crossfade M-100 has a closed-back design for noise isolation and delivers excellent sound quality.

Features:

• 50mm dual-diaphragm drivers that provide a wide frequency range and excellent sound quality
• Memory foam ear cushions and a flexible headband that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Steel frame and durable materials that offer a long-lasting build quality
• Customizable shields that can be personalised with laser engraving or 3D printing to create a unique look
• Includes a hard case for storage and transportation
• Optional accessories, such as BoomPro mic and XL cushions, are available for added versatility
• Can be used with multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops, with the included cable or with Bluetooth connectivity
• Features a built-in microphone and remote for phone calls and voice control on compatible devices

Pros:

• Stylish and unique design
• Durable and built to last
• Customizable shields for personalised appearance
• Comfortable fit with memory foam ear pads and flexible steel headband

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other models
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes

Best for customisation: Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus

Price: £159-£179

Beyerdynamic’s Custom One Pro Plus model is a set of cans featuring a customizable design.

DJs can change the colour and style of the ear cups, headband, and earpads to create a personalised look.

They come with detachable cables for added convenience, and the ear cups can be adjusted to achieve different levels of noise isolation.

Features:

• Customizable design with interchangeable ear cups, headbands, and earpads
• Detachable cables for added convenience
• Adjustable ear cups to achieve different levels of noise isolation
• Good sound quality with a wide frequency response range
• Soft and comfortable ear pads that can be replaced

Pros:

• Customizable design for a personalised look
• Detachable cables make it easy to store and transport the headphones
• Good sound quality with a wide frequency response range
• Soft and comfortable ear pads that can be replaced

Cons:

• May not be as durable as some other options on the market
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes
• Cable may be too short for some setups

Best for high-end sound quality: Pioneer DJ HDJ-X10

Price: £299-£319

Pioneer’s flagship HDJ-X10 is a high-end option that delivers exceptional sound quality and noise isolation, ideal for the seasoned DJ.

They feature a flexible headband for a comfortable fit, reinforced headband and hinges for durability, and a detachable cable with threaded connection.

Features:

• 50mm drivers with a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz for excellent sound quality and clarity
• High-quality materials, including metal components and nano-coating, that provide a durable and long-lasting build quality
• Large, over-ear ear cups with memory foam and synthetic leather that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Foldable design with a compact carrying case for easy storage and transport
• Removable, tangle-resistant cables with a bayonet connection for added durability and easy replacement
• Dual-sided monitoring with swivelling ear cups for flexible use
• Sound-isolating feature that helps block out external noise for improved clarity and focus
• Optional accessories, such as replacement ear pads and cables, are available for added versatility
• Comes with a hard carrying case for protection during transport and storage

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality and noise isolation
• Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
• Built to last
• High-quality construction and materials
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other DJ headphones
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes
• Cable may not be long enough for some setups

Best wireless / Bluetooth: Sennheiser HD 450BT

Price: £159-£169

Sennheiser’s HD 450BT is a wireless headphone that offers excellent sound quality and noise cancellation. The cans have touch controls for easy use, and up to 30 hours of battery life.

The HD 450BT has a foldable design for easy storage and transport. However, the headphones may not have the same sound quality as wired models and may be heavier than some other wireless headphones.

Features:

• Active noise cancellation that reduces ambient noise for a more immersive listening experience
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity that allows for wireless streaming from compatible devices with a range of up to 10 metres (33 feet)
• 40mm dynamic drivers that provide high-quality sound with a frequency response of 18 Hz to 22 kHz
• Up to 30 hours of battery life with USB-C fast charging that provides up to 17 hours of playback on a 15-minute charge
• Convenient and intuitive controls, including an integrated voice assistant and customizable EQ settings, through the Sennheiser Smart Control app
• Lightweight and foldable design with comfortable earpads and an adjustable headband that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Optional wired use with the included cable that also allows for use with non-Bluetooth devices
• Built-in microphone and support for high-quality audio codecs, including AAC and aptX Low Latency, for clear voice calls and low-latency streaming

Pros:

• Wireless connectivity for added convenience
• Active noise cancellation for better sound quality
• Long battery life for extended use
• Easy-to-use touch controls
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• May not have the same sound quality as wired models
• May be heavier than some other wireless headphones

Best over-ear: Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

Price: £119-£179

Beyerdynamic’s DT 770 PRO is an over-ear can that is renowned in the recording business for its sound quality and comfort. The headphones have a closed-back design for noise isolation and come with a soft, replaceable ear pad for added comfort.

Features:

• 45mm dynamic drivers that provide high-quality sound with a frequency response of 5 Hz to 35 kHz
• Closed-back design with comfortable, circumaural earpads that provide excellent noise isolation and a comfortable fit for extended use
• Adjustable, padded headband that provides a secure and comfortable fit for various head sizes
• Single-sided cable that reduces tangles and allows for easy one-ear monitoring
• Durable and rugged build quality with a robust, steel frame and replaceable parts for easy maintenance and long-term use
• Comes in three different impedance options (32, 80, and 250 ohms) for compatibility with a variety of audio devices
• Optional accessories, such as replacement earpads and cables, are available for added versatility

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality and comfort
• Durable and built to last
• Closed-back design for noise isolation
• Replaceable ear pad for added comfort

Cons:

• May not have the same level of noise isolation as other over-ear models
• Cable may be too long for some users

Best on-ear: Sennheiser HD25

Price: £109-£129

Sennheiser’s popular HD25 model is an on-ear headphone that is known as an industry-standard. These cans offer a closed-back design for noise isolation and are lightweight and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.

Features

• 70-ohm dynamic drivers that deliver clear and accurate sound with a frequency response of 16 Hz to 22 kHz
• Lightweight and durable design that provides a comfortable and secure fit for extended use
• Closed-back ear cups that provide excellent noise isolation for improved focus and clarity
• Rotatable ear cups for one-ear listening and easy monitoring
• Detachable, single-sided cable that reduces tangles and allows for easy replacement
• Option for customization with different coloured earpads and headbands available for purchase
• Comes with a convenient storage pouch for protection during transport and storage
• A variety of optional accessories, such as replacement earpads, cables, and adaptors, are available for added versatility

Pros:

• Industry-standard DJ headphones
• Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
• Durable and can withstand frequent use
• Excellent noise isolation
• Clear and accurate sound quality

Cons:

• May not fit comfortably for all head sizes
• Does not have a built-in mic or control buttons

Best for comfort: Focal Clear Professional

Price: £1,199-£1,399

Focal’s Clear Pro is a headphone that is designed for comfort and provides excellent sound quality. Offering an open-back design that allows for a natural and spacious sound, with a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 28 kHz.

The signature ear pads are made of memory foam and covered with microfiber fabric for added comfort, and the headband is adjustable and well-padded. A great choice for anyone embarking on a club DJ career.

Features:

• Open-back design for natural and spacious sound
• Frequency response range of 5 Hz to 28 kHz
• Memory foam ear pads covered with microfiber fabric for added comfort
• Adjustable and well-padded headband
• Detachable cable with a locking mechanism

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality with a wide frequency response range
• Comfortable and well-padded ear pads and headband for long listening sessions
• Detachable cable with a locking mechanism for easy replacement or upgrade
• Lightweight design makes them easy to wear for extended periods

Cons:

• Open-back design may not be ideal for noisy environments or situations where privacy is important
• Price may be a barrier for some users

Best for mixing EDM: Pioneer HDJ-X10

Price: £299-£319

Pioneer HDJ-X10 is an ideal option for mixing EDM due to its high-quality sound and noise isolation. The headphones have a flexible headband for a comfortable fit, reinforced headband and hinges for durability, and a detachable cable with threaded connection.

Features:

• 50mm drivers with a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz for exceptional sound quality and clarity
• High-quality materials, including metal components and nano-coating, that provide a durable and long-lasting build quality
• Large, over-ear ear cups with memory foam and synthetic leather that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Foldable design with a compact carrying case for easy storage and transport
• Removable, tangle-resistant cables with a bayonet connection for added durability and easy replacement
• Dual-sided monitoring with swiveling ear cups for flexible use
• Sound-isolating feature that helps block out external noise for improved clarity and focus
• Optional accessories, such as replacement ear pads and cables, are available for added versatility
• Comes with a hard carrying case for protection during transport and storage

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality and noise isolation
• Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
• Built to last
• High-quality construction and materials
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other DJ headphones
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes
• Cable may not be long enough for some setups

Best affordable: Samson SR850

Price: £40-£50

Features:

• Over-ear, semi-open design for good sound isolation and natural sound
• Well-padded ear cups for added comfort during extended use
• Adjustable headband for a customizable fit
• Comes with a 1/4" adapter for compatibility with different devices

Pros:

• Affordable price point makes it accessible for those on a tight budget
• Good sound quality with a natural and balanced sound
• Comfortable ear cups that allow for extended listening sessions
• Adjustable headband for a customizable fit

Cons:

• Plastic construction may not be as durable as some other options
• Semi-open design may not provide as much sound isolation as closed-back headphones
• Cable may not be long enough for some users

Best high-end: Pioneer HDJ-X10

Price: £299-£319

Pioneer’s HDJ-X10 is a well-considered option for pros, delivering exceptional sound quality and noise isolation. These cans have a flexible headband for a comfortable fit, reinforced headband and hinges for durability, and a detachable cable with threaded connection.

Features:

• 50mm drivers with a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz for exceptional sound quality and clarity
• High-quality materials, including metal components and nano-coating, that provide a durable and long-lasting build quality
• Large, over-ear ear cups with memory foam and synthetic leather that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Foldable design with a compact carrying case for easy storage and transport
• Removable, tangle-resistant cables with a bayonet connection for added durability and easy replacement
• Dual-sided monitoring with swiveling ear cups for flexible use
• Sound-isolating feature that helps block out external noise for improved clarity and focus
• Optional accessories, such as replacement ear pads and cables, are available for added versatility
• Comes with a hard carrying case for protection during transport and storage

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality and noise isolation
• Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
• Built to last
• High-quality construction and materials
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other DJ headphones
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes
• Cable may not be long enough for some setups

Best noise cancelling: Sennheiser HD 450BT

Price: £159-£169

Sennheiser’s HD 450BT is a wireless headphone that features active noise cancellation. These cans feature touch controls for ease if use and up to 30 hours of battery life.

Features:

• Active noise cancellation that reduces ambient noise for a more immersive listening experience
• Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity that allows for wireless streaming from compatible devices with a range of up to 10 meters (33 feet)
• 40mm dynamic drivers that provide high-quality sound with a frequency response of 18 Hz to 22 kHz
• Up to 30 hours of battery life with USB-C fast charging that provides up to 17 hours of playback on a 15-minute charge
• Convenient and intuitive controls, including an integrated voice assistant and customizable EQ settings, through the Sennheiser Smart Control app
• Lightweight and foldable design with comfortable earpads and an adjustable headband that provide a comfortable and secure fit
• Optional wired use with the included cable that also allows for use with non-Bluetooth devices
• Built-in microphone and support for high-quality audio codecs, including AAC and aptX Low Latency, for clear voice calls and low-latency streaming

Pros:

• Wireless connectivity for added convenience
• Active noise cancellation for better sound quality
• Long battery life for extended use
• Easy-to-use touch controls
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• May not have the same sound quality as wired models
• May be heavier than some other wireless headphones

Best for mixing and producing: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Price: £119-£129

Audio-Technica’s ATH-M50x product is an ideal option for mixing and producing due to its professional sound quality and versatility. These cans feature a closed-back design for noise isolation and come with three detachable cables for added flexibility.

The ATH-M50x is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time and has a durable construction.

Features:

• Large, 45mm dynamic drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils that provide high-quality sound with a frequency response of 15 Hz to 28 kHz
• Closed-back design with padded, over-ear ear cups that provide excellent noise isolation and a comfortable and secure fit
• Rotatable ear cups for one-ear monitoring and convenient storage
• Detachable cables, including a straight 1.2m cable and coiled 1.2m - 3m cable, that provide added versatility and easy replacement
• Professional-grade build quality with durable materials and a collapsible design for easy portability
• Comes with a carrying case, 1/4-inch screw-on adapter, and two detachable cables for added convenience and flexibility
• Optional accessories, such as replacement ear pads and cables, are available for added versatility

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality and versatility
• Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time
• Durable and can withstand frequent use
• Three detachable cables for added flexibility

Cons:

• May not have the same level of noise isolation as other models
• May not fit comfortably for all head sizes

Best DJ headphones with microphone: V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless

Price: £299-£329

V-MODA’s Crossfade 2 Wireless headphone is a wireless product with a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and voice assistant commands.

The cans feature built-in touch controls for ease-of-use and up to 14 hours of battery life. The cans feature a foldable design for storage and transport benefits.

Features:

• 50mm dual-diaphragm drivers with a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz for exceptional sound quality and clarity
• Bluetooth connectivity that allows for wireless streaming from compatible devices with a range of up to 33 feet
• Up to 14 hours of battery life with fast charging that provides 4 hours of playback in just 30 minutes
• Stylish and customizable design with interchangeable shields and color options
• Comfortable and durable build with memory foam ear cushions and a steel frame that can withstand drops and impacts
• Hi-Res Audio certification that ensures a high level of audio quality
• Built-in microphone with noise-cancellation technology for clear voice calls and voice assistant activation
• Optional wired use with the included cable that also allows for use with non-Bluetooth devices
• Comes with a hard carrying case, a 1/4-inch adapter, and a USB charging cable

Pros:

• Wireless connectivity for added convenience
• Built-in microphone for hands-free calling and voice assistant commands
• Easy-to-use touch controls
• Foldable design for easy portability

Cons:

• Expensive compared to other DJ headphones
• Ear cups may not fit comfortably for all head sizes

Can headphones damage your hearing?

Yes. Excessive use of headphones can be detrimental to your hearing if used loud and for long periods of time.

Amplified sounds can damage the hair cells in your inner ear causing hearing loss or tinnitus. Avoid this by using your cans responsibly, by setting a reasonable volume, taking breaks, using noise-cancelling or over-ear headphones, and by moderating your use of them.

How to take care of your new pair of headphones?

To take care of your new cans, store them carefully, keep them clean, handle them gently, use a carrying case, avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, and don't share them too much with others.

Expert Advice

When searching for the ideal cans, bear in mind your personal preferences, needs, and budget.

If you're starting out, prioritiseprioritize headphones that are affordable and durable. If you’re more about style and appearance, look for headphones that have customizable design features or a unique design.

For the highest sound quality, choose cans that feature high-quality audio components such as large, high-performance drivers. If comfort is essential, choose headphones that have good padding and a design that conforms to the shape of your head.

If your use-case is more specific, such as mixing music or using it for phone calls, look for headphones that are designed for that particular function. Similarly, if you require headphones with a microphone, look for models that have built-in or detachable microphones for clear audio input.

At the end of the day, finding the best headphones for you likely depends on a variety of factors.

Make sure to do your homework, compare models, read reviews, watch unboxing videos, and take advantage of any trials or warranties that may be offered to ensure you get the idea pair of cans.