The tribological characteristics of TIN and DLC coated VCR drums were compared to conventional aluminum drums using a custom built accelerated testing set-up under varying temperature and humidity. It is found that the coated drums exhibit superior frictional properties at elevated temperature and high humidity compared to bare aluminum drum. Futhermore, the coated drums maintained their initial surface conditions over a wider range of temperature and humidity variation. As for the damage incurred to the tape, DLC coated drum was the most favorable of the three types of drums.