Abstract: An aspect of the present invention relates to a magnetic recording medium comprising a magnetic layer comprising a ferromagnetic powder and a binder on a nonmagnetic support. A height of protrusions with a protrusion density of 0.002 protrusion/?m2 or lower on a surface of the magnetic layer as measured by AFM is 40 nm or lower; a density of protrusions that are 15 nm or higher in height on the surface of the magnetic layer as measured by AFM ranges from 0.01 to 0.18 protrusion/?m2; and the protrusions that are 15 nm or higher in height include protrusions formed of carbon black and protrusions formed of a substance with a Mohs' hardness exceeding 7, and an average height of the protrusions formed of carbon black is greater than an average height of the protrusions formed of the substance with a Mohs' hardness exceeding 7.

Abstract: The invention provides a high performance magnetic recording medium used in the magnetic recording system using the MR head for the regeneration head, wherein the magnetic recording medium does not damage the MR head by direct sliding contact while having durability and self-cleaning power enough for preventing abrasion of the magnetic recording medium itself.