Best China Cymbals of 2026
* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
China cymbals are an essential part of any drummer's arsenal. They are known for their explosive, trashy sound and are often used to accentuate certain parts of a song or to add extra energy to a performance. China cymbals are typically larger and thicker than other cymbals, with a flared shape that produces a distinctive sound. They are available in a range of sizes and styles, from smaller, more subtle models to larger, more aggressive options. Whether you're a professional drummer or a beginner, a China cymbal can add a unique and exciting element to your playing.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 China Cymbals
Meinl 14” China Cymbal – HCS Traditional Finish Brass
The Meinl 14” China Cymbal offers trashy china sounds that can drive a song or add strong bursts of sound to your fills. It is made of durable brass alloy that maintains its tone while holding up to the brunt of drum sticks. With the full range of sounds unique to this price range, HCS cymbals offer all of the cymbal types and sizes normally found in professional set ups to beginners. Additionally, Meinl Cymbals are used by professional drummers and are great for drum instructors and teachers.
Zildjian S Dark China Cymbal - 18"
The Zildjian Dark China Cymbal, 18 inches, by Avedis Zildjian Company, features a dark finish that sets it apart. This China Cymbal, known for its unique sound, adds depth to your music. With its 18" size, it delivers a powerful punch in your performances. The brand, Avedis Zildjian Company, ensures quality and reliability. Elevate your music with the Zildjian Dark China Cymbal.
Meinl 18" China Cymbal - Classics Custom Dark
The Meinl 18” China Cymbal - Classics Custom Dark is a durable cymbal that produces shadowy tones and plenty of volume. The cymbal has a highly specialized finishing process that adds complexity to its character, making it perfect for high octane styles like rock and metal. Made from B12 Bronze Alloy, the cymbal has a uniform sound that can cut through dense mixes easily. The cymbal is made in Germany with green energy and has a finish that will last a lifetime.
Avedis Zildjian FX Series ZIL-BEL 6"
The Zildjian ZIL-BEL Cymbal delivers a clear and sharp bell tone that cuts through your music, perfect for adding brightness to your sound. Its smaller bell shape creates a high-pitched tone, giving you a unique accent that stands out. You’ll appreciate the long, ringing sustain that lets the sound linger, adding depth to your performance. Plus, this cymbal is versatile—you can mount it on its own stand or place it upside down on top of another cymbal, making it easy to fit into your setup and create special effects.
Zildjian S Series China Cymbal - 18"
Zildjian China Cymbal 18" is a top-quality cymbal with a bright finish and a balanced tone. The B12 Alloy construction ensures durability and a clear sound. The H Hammered design adds depth to your music. Perfect for creating unique accents and effects in your drumming. Elevate your performances with this versatile cymbal.
Zildjian FX Trashformer 10"
The Zildjian Trashformer 10" offers versatile play options, letting you use it solo or stacked with another cymbal for unique sounds. Its special color tinting adds a distinctive look, making your setup stand out visually. Originally, the 14" version was created in collaboration with drummer Mike Mangini, showing a professional edge in design. Made in the United States, this China cymbal combines quality craftsmanship with creative features. With the Zildjian Trashformer 10", you can explore different sounds and styles easily while enjoying a visually striking cymbal that fits well in any drum kit.
Avedis Zildjian 18" I Series China Cymbal
The Zildjian 18" China Cymbal is designed with inspiration in mind, as its name suggests. Made from B8 alloy, this cymbal offers durability and a bright tone. Its thinner weight allows for a washier sound, which can enhance your drumming with more expressive tones. This feature is especially useful for creating dynamic soundscapes in various musical styles. With its emotive sound quality, you can bring more depth to your performances, making it a great choice for drummers looking to elevate their sound.
Wuhan WU104-12 China Cymbal
Experience the explosive and trashy sound of the Wuhan WU104-12 China Cymbal. This 12-inch cymbal is handcrafted using traditional methods that have been passed down for over two thousand years. Made from high-quality cast B20 alloy, this cymbal delivers a dark, explosive sound that adds a unique flavor to your music. The buffed finish gives it a brilliant shine, while the unobtrusive yet attractive logo adds a touch of style. Whether you're playing in a small venue or a large concert hall, the Wuhan WU104-12 Cymbal will bring a distinctive sound to your performance.
Wuhan WU10414 14-Inch Lion China Cymbal
Wuhan Lion China Cymbal, model WU10414, is a 14-inch cymbal made of high-quality cast B20 alloy. Handcrafted using traditional methods dating back two thousand years, this cymbal offers a dark, explosive, and trashy sound. The brilliant finish and unobtrusive yet attractive logo add to its appeal. The Wuhan Lion China Cymbal provides a unique and rich sound experience, making it ideal for drummers looking to add depth and character to their music.
Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Dark 16" Trash China Cymbal
The Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Dark 16" Trash China Cymbal is versatile, explosive, and made from B12 bronze alloy. It features a dark finish with extra hammering, wide blade lathing, and cut outs that dry the sustain. This cymbal is ideal for rock, metal, and fusion music styles, offering an intense attack and plenty of volume. The dark finish is part of the cymbal making process, making it durable and long-lasting. Made in Germany with 100% renewable energy.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is a China cymbal used for?
A China cymbal is primarily used as an effect cymbal, often during transitions, drum solos, or at the end of a song. While the sound of a China cymbal may not be pleasing on its own, it adds a unique and important element when integrated into a larger drum set and band.
2. What is the difference between ride and China cymbal?
The main difference between a ride cymbal and a China cymbal is the sound they produce. Ride cymbals have a soothing, ring-like sound, while China cymbals have a more trashy sound. Ride cymbals are typically used to lead the rhythm section, while China cymbals are used for accents and special effects.
3. What is the difference between a swish and a China cymbal?
While both the swish cymbal and China cymbal have similarities, they have distinct differences in their design and usage. The swish cymbal is thin with a little taper and has equally spaced holes and rivets along the bow. This design, similar to a China cymbal, gives the swish cymbal a unique sound and purpose in drumming.
During our china cymbal research, we found 24 china cymbal products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,454 customer reviews through our big data system to write the china cymbals list. We found that most customers choose china cymbals with an average price of $131.07.
The china cymbals are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of china cymbals, including Meinl Cymbals, Zildjian, WUHAN. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 222 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.
Nicole Kim has been a music teacher and a private piano instructor for six years now. She is a very talented musician who plays piano to a high standard and won several awards in international piano competitions. Lately, she has been sharing her music expertise online, giving incredible tips on how to select the right musical instruments.