Best Ride Cymbals of 2026
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Ride cymbals are an essential component of any drummer's kit. They are typically larger and thicker than other cymbals, and produce a sustained, clear tone when struck with a drumstick or brush. Ride cymbals come in a variety of sizes and materials, from traditional bronze to modern alloys, and can be used to create a wide range of sounds and styles. Some drummers prefer a bright, cutting ride cymbal for rock or metal music, while others may opt for a darker, more complex tone for jazz or fusion. Overall, ride cymbals are a versatile and crucial part of any drummer's sound.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Ride Cymbals
VEVOR 3-Piece Alloy Cymbal Set
The VEVOR Alloy Cymbal Set offers a versatile 3-piece collection including 14-inch hi-hats, a 16-inch crash, and a 20-inch ride cymbal, perfect for a range of music styles from jazz to rock. Crafted from premium alloy with special grooves and hammer patterns, these cymbals deliver bright and clear sounds that enhance your playing experience without harsh tones. Designed with silent pads, they help reduce noise, making practice sessions more comfortable for you and quieter for those around you. Built to last, the 1 mm thick alloy can handle strong hits without damage, ensuring durability through many performances and practice sessions.
Meinl 20" Ride Cymbal - HCS Traditional Finish Brass
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.
SABIAN 20" SBr Ride
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.
Zildjian Planet Z Ride Cymbal
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.
Zildjian L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal - 20 Inches
The Zildjian L80 Ride Cymbal is a low-volume 20" ride cymbal with a matte finish. Designed by the Avedis Zildjian Company, this cymbal offers a unique solution for drummers who want to practice or play in low-volume settings without compromising on sound quality. The low-volume design reduces the overall volume of the cymbal, making it perfect for practice sessions at home or in a studio where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. The 20" size provides a balanced and versatile sound, suitable for a wide range of musical styles. With its matte finish, the cymbal not only looks sleek but also offers a smooth playing surface for enhanced control and feel. Whether you're a beginner or a professional drummer, the Zildjian L80 Ride Cymbal is a great addition to your drum kit, allowing you to practice and perform with ease.
Meinl Cymbals HCS 18” Big Bell Ride Cymbal
The Meinl Big Bell Ride Cymbal is a major upgrade from the stock cymbals that usually come with drum sets. Designed for beginner and intermediate players, these cymbals offer impressive sound and a sturdy feel. Playing the Big Bell Ride Cymbal will give you a more authentic sound, similar to what you hear in actual songs, making your drumming experience even more enjoyable. Unlike stock cymbals, these cymbals won't fall apart or dent after a few uses. The 18" Big Bell ride cymbal included in the package features an oversized bell that delivers loud, deep, in-your-face sounds, making it perfect for rock and metal styles. Made in Germany with MS63 brass alloy, this cymbal offers a clean, bright, and crisp tone. With its well-formed surface grooves and hammer marks, you get a defined sound without any clangy or ear-piercing overtones. The Meinl Big Bell Ride Cymbal is a top-quality entry level cymbal that resembles more high-end models, and it's built to withstand hard hitters. It's an excellent choice for rock or metal drummers.
Zildjian I Series Ride Cymbal
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.
ULUOBO 20 Inch Ride Cymbal
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.
heetipuk 2026 Mini Car Cymbal Air Vent Drum
The heetipuk Mini Car Cymbal is a fun and unique gift, especially great for Valentine's Day if you want to surprise your boyfriend with something playful and memorable. It features a reinforced hook that fits securely on most car air vents without blocking airflow, so your car stays cool and your view remains clear for safer driving. This mini cymbal is not just a decoration—it’s a small musical instrument that adds a fun, interactive element to your ride, perfect for music lovers who enjoy rock vibes. Plus, it delivers authentic cymbal sounds that bring back the energy of classic rock, making every drive more exciting and lively.
ITSHAND 18" Copper Alloy Ride Cymbal
The ITSHAND Copper Ride Cymbal is crafted from high-quality copper alloy, ensuring durability and a bright, attractive finish that catches the eye. Measuring 18 inches, it offers a perfect size for a variety of drum setups. When you strike the cymbal, it produces a clear and pleasant tinkle sound, adding a melodious tone to your music. This cymbal is designed for both serious drummers and passionate hobbyists, providing a professional feel that enhances your playing experience and helps you express your enthusiasm through your drumming.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why are ride cymbals so expensive?
Ride cymbals can be expensive due to the labor-intensive process involved in their creation. Making cymbals requires skilled craftsmanship and can be time-consuming. While the materials used also affect the cost, the creation process has a more significant impact on the price.
2. What is the difference between crash and ride cymbals?
Ride cymbals are thicker and have a wider diameter compared to crash cymbals. Crash cymbals produce a brighter and shimmering sound, while ride cymbals are used more frequently to maintain the beat. Crash cymbals are used sparingly to provide accents in music.
3. What is the difference between ride and china cymbal?
Ride cymbals have a mellower and ring-like sound, while China cymbals produce a trashier sound. Ride cymbals are typically used to lead the rhythm section, while China cymbals are used for accents.
4. Can you use a ride cymbal as a crash?
Yes, it is possible to use a ride cymbal as a crash by striking it with the shoulder of the drumstick towards the edge of the cymbal. This will produce a louder sound with more sustain and shimmer, although it may not sound as bright as a dedicated crash cymbal.
5. Is a ride cymbal necessary?
A ride cymbal is essential in a drum set as it plays a crucial role in music. It helps keep time and creates a steady beat for other band members to follow. The ride cymbal is frequently played and anchors the tempo of a piece of music.
6. Is it OK to crash a ride cymbal?
Crashing a ride cymbal is a matter of personal preference. Some people enjoy the sound it produces, while others may not. As long as the cymbal is structurally sound and struck correctly, crashing a ride cymbal should not cause any damage.
During our ride cymbal research, we found 24 ride cymbal products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,091 customer reviews through our big data system to write the ride cymbals list. We found that most customers choose ride cymbals with an average price of $129.33.
The ride cymbals are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of ride cymbals, including VEVOR, Meinl Percussion, Sabian, Zildjian, Meinl Cymbals. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.
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.