Best Drum Heads from Top Stores

Updated October 11, 2026

Compare the best drum heads from top stores in one place.

Drum heads on this page range from about $22.99 to $134.99. Options include single-ply and double-ply heads for toms, snares and bass drums, as well as coated and clear varieties.

When choosing a head, consider the thickness (measured in mils), thinner heads give more resonance and attack, while thicker heads provide durability and lower tuning sensitivity. Coated heads protect against moisture and last longer, especially for outdoor gigs.

Match the head size to your drum and think about the musical style: bright, open tones for rock often use single-ply heads, whereas jazz players may prefer the warm tone of double-ply heads.

Questions

What is the difference between single-ply and double-ply heads?

Single-ply heads are thinner and produce more attack, while double-ply heads are thicker and give a warmer, more focused tone.

Do coated heads need special tuning?

Coated heads may require slightly higher tension to reach the same pitch as clear heads.

Can I use the same head on both snare and toms?

While possible, many drummers choose different heads to optimize tone and durability for each drum type.