Best Ride Cymbals of 2025

The Zildjian Planet Z Ride Cymbal (ZP20R) is designed for beginners and intermediate players who want to experience the Zildjian world of cymbals. Made in the USA from brass, the cymbal offers a bright cutting tone, superior sound quality, and a focused sound. It is a heavy-weight cymbal that delivers great stick definition and is capable of really cutting through the mix.

The Meinl 20" Ride Cymbal - HCS Traditional Finish Brass is an ideal entry point for beginner drummers with ultra-clean sounds for clarity. Made of 100% renewable energy, this durable brass alloy produces a full range of sounds, perfect for any musical style from rock to pop to jazz. The medium weight sweet spot provides an easily controllable ride cymbal for any musical scenario. You can play it on the top, toward the side or on the bell for big crashes. Its warmth and balanced tone let you sound more naturally musical on your drums. Moreover, it is multi-use for any skill level, solid, musical and reliable for practice setups or to use in your main kit to find new sounds.

The Zildjian I Series Ride Cymbal is a part of the inspiring line of cymbals from the Avedis Zildjian Company. This ride cymbal takes its name from the Turkish word "Ilham," which means inspiration. With its thinner weights, it delivers washier and more emotive sounds. The I Series Ride Cymbal is designed to provide you with an inspiring musical experience. The thinner weights of this cymbal allow for greater control and versatility, making it perfect for a wide range of musical styles. Whether you're playing jazz, rock, or any other genre, this ride cymbal will bring a unique and emotive sound to your performances. Its inspiring design and versatile sound make it a great addition to any drummer's collection.

The Zildjian S Series Dark Ride is perfect for drummers seeking a deep, rich sound. Its solid construction provides excellent stick response, allowing you to play with precision and confidence. You'll appreciate the clear bell, which adds a bright accent to your rhythms. The cymbal resonates with lower overtones, giving your music a unique character, while a hint of dryness helps to control the sound. This ride cymbal is sized for versatility, making it an ideal choice for various musical styles.

The SABIAN 20" SBr Ride is a versatile model for beginners, making it an easy first step into cymbals. Despite being smartly priced, SBr Brass is in a class of its own, providing a quality sound at a reasonable price point.

The Zildjian K Custom Dark Ride offers exceptional stick clarity, making it easy for you to hear every note you play. Its dry, full-bodied sound provides a robust tone, perfect for creating a rich auditory experience. You will appreciate the dark, warm undertones that add depth to your music, enhancing your overall performance. Additionally, the cymbal features trashy crash characteristics, giving you the versatility to accentuate your playing with a unique flair. This combination of features makes it a valuable addition to any drummer's setup.

The Zildjian A Custom Ride offers an impressive combination of clarity and versatility. With its crisp stick definition, you can easily hear every note, making it ideal for both live performances and studio recordings. This cymbal also boasts exceptional cutting power, ensuring your sound stands out in any mix. Its sophisticated and transparent tone allows for a wide range of musical styles, giving you the freedom to explore different genres. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced player, this ride cymbal can enhance your playing experience and elevate your sound.

The Zildjian A Series Ride is a top choice among drummers worldwide, known for its versatility in various musical styles. You'll appreciate its excellent stick definition, which helps you achieve clear and precise notes while playing. The thin-tapered edge enhances its crashability, allowing you to create dynamic sounds effortlessly. Plus, the cymbal produces colorful, medium overtones, adding depth and richness to your music. Whether you’re jamming with friends or performing on stage, this ride cymbal can elevate your drumming experience.

The Zildjian K Sweet Ride Cymbal is a 21" ride cymbal made from B20 bronze. This ride cymbal, produced by the Avedis Zildjian Company, is an excellent addition to any drummer's collection. The B20 bronze construction ensures a rich and warm tone, providing a smooth and balanced sound. The large size of the cymbal allows for a wide range of dynamics, making it suitable for various musical styles. Whether you're playing jazz, rock, or anything in between, the Zildjian K Sweet Ride Cymbal delivers a versatile and expressive performance. With its exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, this cymbal is built to last and will enhance your drumming experience.

The ULUOBO Ride Cymbal is specifically crafted for beginners, making it an excellent choice for new drummers. Its high-quality stainless steel alloy construction ensures that it produces a consistent sound while withstanding the impact of drumsticks. The cymbal's thickened material enhances its durability, reducing the risk of breakage during practice. This affordable option is perfect for students learning the ropes of drumming, as it provides a reliable addition to classroom lesson sets. With this cymbal, you can confidently develop your skills and enjoy your musical journey.