The 4 Best DJ Headphones - Summer 2022 Reviews

The best headphones for DJs that we've tested are the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. These over-ear headphones have a lightweight, well-padded design that should make them comfortable to wear during long sets. Their ear cups can swivel, making it easier to keep tabs on the venue's mix.

Their sound profile is fairly neutral, making it suitable for different genres, although the low-bass response is slightly exaggerated, so music has some extra thump and rumble. Their all-black design isn't too eye-catching, so they shouldn't stand out much, even if you're playing at a more subdued venue. Their audio cable is also detachable, which is nice because you don't need to replace the headphones if it's damaged. If you prefer a wireless design, there's also a Βluetooth variant of these headphones called the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT.

Unfortunately, they have a poor noise isolation performance, so they aren't ideal if you're looking for headphones to help isolate you from ambient noise. They're also not very portable and only come with a soft pouch to store them in, which doesn't protect them as much as a hard case. Their design and versatile sound profile make them a good choice for DJs.

If you want headphones that you can customize to reflect your style, you may prefer the V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless. These headphones deliver sound less consistently than the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, so it's more important to take the time to adjust their fit and positioning to get the same sound each time you wear them. However, their appearance is more customizable. You can get them in a few different colors, replace the earcup cushions and audio cables, and even buy ear plates with custom engravings or patterns from the manufacturer's website. They have a more bass-heavy sound profile that delivers extra thump and boom to mixes, making them well-suited for genres like EDM and hip-hop. Unlike other headphones on this list, you can use them wirelessly via Bluetooth or wired with the included 1/8" TRRS cable.

If you're looking for headphones with a more neutral sound profile, go for the Audio-Technica, but try the V-MODA instead if you want to personalize your headphones' appearance or want the option to use them wirelessly.

The Sony MDR-7506 are the headphones for DJs under $100 that we've tested. These over-ear headphones have a retro look and a long coiled cable that helps prevent tangles when you're moving around. They're not too heavy and have a decently comfortable fit, meaning you can wear them for hours at a time without much fatigue.

They have a somewhat v-shaped sound profile that delivers extra thump, punch, and boom to your audio. Instruments and lead vocals are bright, present, and clear. They also have good frequency response consistency, so their sound doesn't depend too much on the headphones' fit and positioning on your head. The included 1/8" to 1/4" adapter lets you plug them into an amp or mixer.

Unfortunately, they have a disappointing noise isolation performance, although their closed-back design helps them block out some mid-range noise like ambient chatter. They also don't have the most stable fit, so they could fall off your head if you make exaggerated movements. If you're looking for DJ headphones at a budget-friendly price, these are worth considering.

The best budget-friendly headphones for DJs that we've tested are the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x. These wired over-ear headphones have a decently comfortable fit and don't clamp onto your head too tightly. They have a simple all-black design and are fairly sturdy and breathable.

Their sound profile is reasonably well-balanced, with a very accurate mid-range response that ensures lead instruments and vocals sound present and clear. They also have a very neutral bass response, so your audio has punch and warmth, although they lack some low-bass. The 10-foot audio cable isn't detachable but gives you plenty of room to move around.

Unfortunately, their underemphasized treble response makes sibilant sounds, like cymbals, seem dull. Also, the cable connecting the ear cups is exposed at points, making it easier to damage. Otherwise, they're worth considering if you want reasonably well-balanced sound at a budget-friendly price.