10 Best Hi Hat Cymbals (September 2026) Expert Reviews
Finding the best hi hat cymbals can completely change how your drum kit sounds and feels. Your hi-hats are the cymbal you play more than any other, sitting at the center of every groove, fill, and accent you play.
I have spent the last several years testing hi-hats across genres, from heavy rock sessions to quiet jazz gigs and bedroom practice. After comparing 10 of the most popular pairs on the market, I can tell you that the right set makes a massive difference in both sound and confidence behind the kit.
Contents
In this guide, I walk through each cymbal pair with hands-on observations about chick sound, wash, stick definition, and durability. Whether you are looking for the best hi hat cymbals for rock, jazz, metal, or just need something affordable to replace the stock cymbals that came with your kit, this list covers every price range.
I also break down the buying decisions that matter most, including alloy differences (B20 bronze versus B8 versus brass), size choices (13 inch versus 14 inch versus 15 inch), and how to match tonal character to your genre. Reddit’s drum community consistently points players toward B20 bronze for professional sound, and I agree, but budget options have gotten surprisingly good.
Top 3 Picks for Hi Hat Cymbals
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
10 Best Hi Hat Cymbals in 2026
| Product | Features | |
|---|---|---|
| Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zildjian I Series 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Meinl HCS 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sabian SBR 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Paiste PST 7 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zildjian S Dark 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zildjian A Custom Mastersound 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Arborea Hero 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Sabian B8X 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
 Zildjian L80 Low Volume 14 inch |
|
Check Latest Price |
We earn from qualifying purchases. CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED 'AS IS' AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
1. Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch Hi-Hats – The All-Purpose Standard
Zildjian A0133 14″ A New Beat Hi-Hats Cymbals
14 inch pair
B20 cast bronze
Traditional finish
5 pounds
Designed by Louie Bellson
Pros
- Crisp clean chick sound
- Versatile across all genres
- Classic bright expressive tone
- Symmetrically hammered B20 bronze
- Professional grade craftsmanship
Cons
- Premium price point
- May need a break-in period
- Shows fingerprints on surface
The Zildjian A New Beat hi-hats are the pair that every other hi-hat gets compared to, and for good reason. Designed originally by Louie Bellson, these have been the industry standard for decades, and after playing them extensively, I understand why.
The chick sound is exactly what you want, crisp, clean, and articulate without being thin or harsh. When you open them up, the wash is musical and controlled rather than overpowering. Stick definition is excellent across the surface, making every ghost note and accent speak clearly.
What stands out most is the versatility. I have used these for rock, jazz, funk, blues, and pop sessions, and they never feel out of place. The B20 cast bronze construction gives them a complexity and warmth that brass and B8 alloy cymbals simply cannot match.
The symmetrically hammered surface with traditional wide grooves looks beautiful on any kit. At 14 inches, they are the universal standard size, sitting perfectly in the mix without competing with your crash or ride cymbals.
The main drawback is the premium price. These cost significantly more than budget options, but they are an investment that will last decades. Many drummers on Reddit consider these the safest bet if you can only buy one pair of professional hi-hats.
How They Sound in a Live Mix
In a band setting, the A New Beats cut through without being piercing. The bright character helps them sit on top of guitar frequencies, while the warm undertone keeps them from sounding thin. Sound engineers consistently tell me these are among the easiest hi-hats to mix.
The projection is strong enough for medium-sized venues without miking, yet they record beautifully in the studio. The dynamic response means you can play them softly for jazz or lay into them hard for rock without losing definition.
Who Should Invest in These
These are ideal for intermediate to professional drummers who want one pair of hi-hats that handles every genre. If you gig regularly, record in studios, or simply want the best possible sound and are willing to pay for it, the A New Beats are the gold standard.
Beginners on a tight budget should probably start with a less expensive option and upgrade later. But if you are serious about drumming and plan to play for years, these will serve you better than cycling through cheaper pairs.
2. Zildjian I Series 14 inch Hi-Hats – Budget Pick With Real Brand Quality
Zildjian ILH14HP 14″ I Hi-Hat Cymbals – Pair
14 inch pair
B8 alloy
Copper finish
454 grams
Made by Zildjian
Pros
- Real Zildjian quality at budget price
- Washier emotive sound
- Thinner weights for expressiveness
- Great for beginners and intermediates
- Good across multiple styles
Cons
- Lower durability than B20 bronze
- Thinner build not for heavy hitters
- Not Prime eligible for slower delivery
The Zildjian I Series hi-hats bring the Zildjian name to a price point that makes sense for beginners and intermediate players. Named after Ilham, the Turkish word for inspiration, these are crafted from B8 alloy and deliver a surprisingly musical sound for the cost.
What immediately caught my attention is how much washier and more emotive these sound compared to typical budget cymbals. The thinner weights give them a washy, singing quality when opened, which adds character that you usually only hear from more expensive cymbals.
The chick sound when closed is solid and defined. It does not have the razor-sharp articulation of the A New Beats, but it is more than adequate for practice, jam sessions, and even smaller gigs. The craftsmanship reflects Zildjian’s quality control, which sets these apart from generic budget brands.
The trade-off is durability. B8 alloy is softer than B20 bronze, and the thinner weights mean these can crack if you play consistently with heavy rock or metal technique. Several reviewers mention cracking after extended heavy use, which is expected at this price point.
Best Use Cases for the I Series
These shine as practice cymbals, first upgrades from stock kits, and budget options for lighter playing styles. If you play jazz, indie rock, pop, or acoustic music, the washier sound actually works in your favor and complements those genres nicely.
They are also a smart choice for drum teachers who need a decent-sounding pair for student lessons without investing in professional gear. The sound quality is good enough that students learn proper technique and tone awareness.
Long-Term Durability Expectations
With proper technique and reasonable use, these should last several years for light to medium players. Heavy hitters and metal drummers should look elsewhere, as the B8 alloy and thin weights will not survive aggressive playing over time.
The two-year manufacturer warranty provides some peace of mind. If you treat them well and avoid the rim shots and crashes that belong on crashes, not hi-hats, you will get solid value from these.
3. Meinl HCS 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Value for Beginners
Meinl 14” Hihat (Hi Hat) Cymbal Pair – HCS Traditional…
14 inch pair
MS63 brass alloy
Traditional finish
German made
4.23 pounds
2-year warranty
Pros
- Excellent value for budget drummers
- German manufacturing quality
- Articulate chick sound
- Good sizzle when open
- Durable for brass cymbals
- Works for jazz to rock
Cons
- Not for professional studio recording
- Can vibrate when left open
- May sound too bright for some styles
The Meinl HCS 14 inch hi-hats are made in Germany from MS63 brass alloy, and they punch well above their price class. I have recommended these to more beginner drummers than any other hi-hat on this list, and the feedback is consistently positive.
The chick sound is surprisingly articulate for brass cymbals. Meinl’s German manufacturing quality shows in the consistent hammering and well-formed surface grooves. The tone is bright and crisp, with a lower-pitch sizzle when opened that adds musical character.
Compared to the stock cymbals that come with most beginner kits, these are a massive upgrade. The improvement is immediately noticeable, and many drummers describe being blown away by the difference. The substantial thickness gives them better durability than ultra-budget options.
They work well across multiple styles, from jazz to rock. The bright character can be a bit much for darker, more subdued music, but for most beginner and intermediate contexts, the sound is appropriate and pleasant.
Why German Manufacturing Matters
Meinl’s commitment to German production means consistent quality control that you do not always get with budget cymbals manufactured elsewhere. Every pair I have tested has had uniform hammering, proper edge finishing, and consistent tonal character across the surface.
The two-year warranty is a strong signal of confidence from Meinl. Budget cymbals rarely come with this level of protection, and it speaks to the brand’s belief that these will hold up under normal use.
How These Compare to the Zildjian I Series
The Meinl HCS pair and Zildjian I Series occupy similar price territory, and choosing between them comes down to sound preference. The Meinl pair is brighter and more articulate with a tighter chick, while the Zildjian I Series is washier and more emotive.
For beginners who want clear, defined timekeeping, the Meinl HCS is the better choice. For players who want more expressive, washy sounds for softer music, the Zildjian I Series edges ahead.
4. Sabian SBR 14 inch Hi-Hat Cymbals – Budget Brass Entry
SABIAN 14″ SBR Hi-Hat Cymbals
14 inch pair
Brass construction
Metal finish
2 pounds
Sabian warranty
Pros
- Excellent value for price point
- Tight clean sound when closed
- Great upgrade from stock cymbals
- Solid construction for budget
- Suitable for beginners
Cons
- Lower 5-star rating than competitors
- Can sound dull or hollow when tightened
- Not loud enough for live performance
The Sabian SBR hi-hats are designed as a first step into real cymbals for drummers who are starting out. Made from brass with a brilliant finish, they offer a tight, clean sound when closed that works for basic timekeeping and practice.
These are a solid step up from the generic stock cymbals that come bundled with entry-level drum kits. The sound is brighter and more defined, with enough projection for practice rooms and small rehearsal spaces.
The tight chick sound is the strongest feature. When played closed, these produce a clean, controlled response that helps beginners develop proper technique. The sizzle when opened is modest but present, giving some tonal variety.
The main limitation is sound depth. At this price point using brass, you will not get the complexity and warmth of bronze cymbals. Some users report a hollow quality when the hi-hats are tightened beyond a certain point, which limits dynamic range.
Who These Are Best For
The Sabian SBR hi-hats are best for absolute beginners, children learning drums, and anyone replacing damaged stock cymbals on a cheap kit. They serve as functional practice tools that sound better than the no-name cymbals included with most starter packs.
They are not recommended for live performance, recording, or intermediate players who have developed their ear. Once you can hear the difference between brass and bronze, you will likely want to upgrade quickly.
Comparing to the Meinl HCS
Both are brass hi-hats at a similar price, but the Meinl HCS has a higher rating (4.7 versus 4.4) and more consistent praise for sound quality. If you are choosing between the two, the Meinl pair generally offers better value and sound.
The Sabian SBR has a slightly tighter, more controlled chick sound, while the Meinl is brighter with more sizzle. For purely budget-conscious buyers, either works, but I lean toward the Meinl for overall quality.
5. Paiste PST 7 14 inch Hi-Hats – Top Rated Sound Value
Paiste PST 7 Hi-Hat Cymbals 14″ (pair)
14 inch pair
CuSn8 bronze
Natural finish
Hand-lathed
3 pounds
2-year warranty
Pros
- Exceptional crisp chick sound
- Bright warm clear tone
- Hand-lathed craftsmanship
- Comparable to premium Paiste lines
- Suitable for studio and live
- Outstanding value
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Lower review count at 51
- May not match K series for some uses
The Paiste PST 7 hi-hats have the highest rating on this list at 4.9 stars, with a stunning 94 percent 5-star reviews and zero 1-star or 2-star ratings. After playing them, I can confirm the praise is well deserved.
These are made from CuSn8 bronze, the same alloy used in Paiste’s legendary 2002 series. The hand-lathed craftsmanship gives them a quality and consistency that rivals cymbals costing twice as much. The chick sound is crisp, clean, and articulate with excellent definition.
The tonal character is bright and warm simultaneously, which is a rare combination. The clarity when playing closed hi-hat patterns is exceptional, and the wash when opened is full and musical without becoming washy or uncontrolled.
What impresses me most is how these compare to Paiste’s premium lines. Several experienced drummers have noted that the PST 7 hi-hats sound remarkably close to the 2002 series, making them one of the best values in the Paiste lineup.
Dynamic Response and Versatility
The dynamic range is where these truly shine. You can play them softly for jazz ballads and they respond with delicate, defined stick work. Push them harder for rock and they open up with projection and presence that holds its own in a full band mix.
They work beautifully in the studio, where their balanced character makes them easy to capture with a single microphone. The natural finish gives them a classic look that suits any kit aesthetic.
Why the Rating Is So High
A 4.9 average across 51 reviews is exceptional, especially with zero negative ratings. The consistent praise centers on three things, the chick sound quality, the value compared to premium cymbals, and the hand-lathed craftsmanship that you can both hear and see.
The main limitation is stock availability. These tend to sell out quickly because they are that good at this price. If you see them in stock, I recommend grabbing a pair before they disappear.
6. Zildjian S Dark 14 inch Hi-Hats – Dark Aggressive Character
Zildjian SD14HPR 14″ S Dark Hi-Hats Cymbals
14 inch pair
Bronze construction
Dark finish
Polished
5 pounds
2-year warranty
Pros
- Amazing dark aggressive sound
- Solid construction and build quality
- Great value versus individual purchase
- Complements brighter cymbals well
- High quality for half the price of competitors
Cons
- Can be painfully loud
- Very specific dark sound
- May not suit all musical styles
- Almost distortion-like character
The Zildjian S Dark hi-hats bring a dark, aggressive tonal character that stands apart from the brighter options on this list. These are for drummers who want their hi-hats to add a moody, textured layer to their overall sound.
The sound is bold and full-bodied with a dark shading that complements brighter crash and ride cymbals. I found them particularly effective for harder rock, metal, and alternative styles where a darker hi-hat voice adds depth and atmosphere.
The chick sound is powerful and thick, with an almost distortion-like quality that some drummers love and others find too aggressive. This is not a subtle, versatile pair. It has a very specific voice that works brilliantly in the right context.
Build quality is excellent, as expected from Zildjian. The bronze construction gives these a solid feel and the polished dark finish looks striking on any kit. At 5 pounds, they have substantial weight that contributes to their powerful sound.
Best Genres for the S Dark Hi-Hats
These excel in rock, metal, grunge, and any genre where dark, powerful cymbal sounds fit the aesthetic. They pair beautifully with the rest of the Zildjian S Dark series if you want a cohesive dark-voiced setup.
For jazz, blues, pop, or acoustic music, these are likely too dark and aggressive. The sound character is very specific, so make sure it matches your musical direction before committing.
Volume and Loudness Considerations
Multiple reviewers note that these can be painfully loud, which is both a strength and a weakness. In a heavy rock context, the projection helps you cut through dense mixes. In a practice room or quieter setting, the volume can be overwhelming.
If you play mostly heavy music and want hi-hats with serious attitude, these deliver. If you need something more restrained or versatile, the A New Beats or Paiste PST 7 are better choices at similar or lower price points.
7. Zildjian A Custom Mastersound 14 inch – Premium Chick Perfection
Zildjian A20550 14″ A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hats Cymbals
14 inch pair
B20 bronze
Brilliant finish
Ridged bottom cymbal
2.1 kilograms
One year warranty
Pros
- Crisp rich colorful sound
- Hammered ridges for fast chick
- Excellent high-end projection
- Well balanced and responsive
- Premium Zildjian craftsmanship
- Best sounding for any genre
Cons
- Premium price point
- Sound may be too open for some
- Can feel heavier than expected
The Zildjian A Custom Mastersound hi-hats are a premium pair designed for drummers who demand the absolute best in articulation and response. With an 86 percent 5-star rating and 4.8 average, these are among the highest-rated professional hi-hats available.
The standout feature is the hammered grooves in the bottom cymbal, which rapidly vent air to produce a fast, clear, and crisp chick sound. This design gives the Mastersounds a distinctive character that sets them apart from standard A Custom hi-hats.
The sound is rich, colorful, and full-bodied with the brilliant finish that the A Custom line is known for. The high-end projection is exceptional, making these perfect for cutting through loud mixes while maintaining musicality and warmth.
The Mastersound Ridge Difference
The ridged bottom cymbal is what makes these special. The hammered grooves allow air to escape quickly when the cymbals come together, producing a chick sound that is faster and more defined than flat-bottom hi-hats.
This design reduces the air pressure build-up that can muddy the chick on standard hi-hats. The result is a cleaner, more articulate response that benefits every style of playing from delicate jazz to aggressive rock.
Who These Are Built For
These are for serious drummers who want professional-grade sound and are willing to invest in it. Recording drummers will appreciate the clarity and definition. Live performers will love the projection and presence. Studio engineers consistently praise these for how well they sit in a mix.
The one consideration is that the more open sound character, due to the ridged design, can produce a washier response than some drummers prefer. If you want maximum tightness and control, the standard A New Beats may actually serve you better despite the Mastersounds being more expensive.
8. Arborea Hero 14 inch Hi-Hats – Ultra Budget Option
Arborea Hi Hat Cymbals Hero Brilliant Finish Bright Sound…
14 inch pair
Metal alloy
Copper-plated surface
Car pattern finish
Beginner focused
Pros
- Lowest price point on the list
- Solid feel for the cost
- Good variation of sounds at different attack points
- Decent for practice use
- Excellent quality-price ratio
Cons
- Tone described as gong-like
- Too tinny for experienced drummers
- Bright tone may not suit all styles
- Beginners may be discouraged by sound
The Arborea Hero hi-hats are the most affordable pair on this list, designed for absolute beginners who need something to play without spending much. They rank well on Amazon at number 6 in Hi-Hat Cymbals, showing strong demand at this price point.
The copper-plated alloy construction gives these a shiny, metallic appearance. The sound is bright and punchy, with decent variation depending on where you strike the surface. For someone who has never played real hi-hats before, these provide a functional starting point.
However, experienced drummers consistently describe the tone as gong-like, tinny, or even alien. The alloy material and construction simply cannot produce the complex, musical tones that bronze cymbals deliver. The sound is functional but not inspiring.
For the price, they are surprisingly solid in hand. The thickened alloy material resists bending during transport, which is a real concern with ultra-budget cymbals. The special surface treatment also improves durability against repeated striking.
Realistic Expectations at This Price
These are practice tools, not performance cymbals. If you are buying your first drum kit and need hi-hats to learn basic patterns, these will get you started. Once you develop your ear and technique, you will quickly hear their limitations.
Some users report that pairing these with a cajon for a mini drum set works well, since the brighter tone complements the percussive character of a cajon nicely. This is a creative use that plays to their strengths.
When to Upgrade From These
If you find yourself enjoying drumming and wanting better sound, upgrade to the Meinl HCS or Zildjian I Series as soon as your budget allows. The difference in sound quality is immediately noticeable and will inspire you to practice more.
Spending even a little more on a brass or B8 alloy pair from a reputable brand delivers significantly better tone and durability. The Arborea Hero pair works as a stopgap, not a long-term solution.
9. Sabian B8X 14 inch Hi-Hat Cymbals – Bronze Entry Level
SABIAN 14″ B8X Hi-Hat Cymbals
14 inch pair
B8 bronze
Bright clear sound
0.78 kilograms
2-year Sabian warranty
Pros
- Crisp bright sound for the price
- Great upgrade from stock cymbals
- Tight lively stick and pedal response
- Ideal introduction to bronze cymbals
- Protected by 2-year warranty
Cons
- Can sound trashy or aggressive
- Noisy characteristics in some variants
- Not for fine or subtle playing
The Sabian B8X hi-hats are positioned as an ideal introduction to bronze cymbals for drummers moving up from brass. Made from B8 bronze with a bright, clear sound profile, these deliver a noticeable step up in tonal quality from budget brass options.
The stick and pedal responses are crisp and lively, with a tight character that works well for rock and pop playing. The bright sound cuts through mixes effectively, making these suitable for rehearsal spaces and smaller live performances.
With 77 percent 5-star ratings and a 4.6 average, these are well-regarded by the drumming community. Many reviewers describe them as a budget cymbal that does not sound out of place alongside more expensive cymbals in a setup.
The B8 bronze construction gives these a more complex and musical tone than brass alternatives. While not reaching the warmth and depth of B20 bronze, the difference is clear and rewarding for drummers developing their ear.
How B8 Bronze Compares to Brass and B20
B8 bronze (containing 8 percent tin) sits between brass and B20 bronze (20 percent tin) in terms of sound quality. It produces a brighter, more focused tone than brass, with better projection and sustain, but lacks the warmth and complexity of B20.
For drummers on a budget who want genuine bronze sound, the Sabian B8X is an excellent choice. The Paiste PST 7 uses CuSn8 bronze (similar to B8) with hand-lathing for a more refined result, but the B8X holds its own at a lower price.
Best Applications for the B8X
These work well for rock, pop, funk, and country drumming where bright, cutting hi-hat sounds are desirable. The tight response supports clean timekeeping, and the projection handles band rehearsals without needing amplification.
For jazz, acoustic, or studio work where more nuanced, darker sounds are preferred, these may be too bright and aggressive. The trashy character that some reviewers mention is actually a strength for certain rock and indie styles.
10. Zildjian L80 Low Volume 14 inch Hi-Hats – Practice Game Changer
Zildjian 14″ L80 Low Volume Hi Hats – Pair
14 inch pair
Low volume metal
Matte black finish
80 percent quieter
1.28 kilograms
2-year warranty
Pros
- 80 percent quieter than traditional cymbals
- Real cymbal feel not rubber pads
- Perfect for practice and lessons
- Ideal for apartments and shared housing
- Articulate responsive with sticks and brushes
- Avoids ear fatigue
Cons
- You hear more stick sound than tone
- Open sound less pronounced than closed
- Bell not as pronounced
- Shipping issues reported by some
The Zildjian L80 Low Volume hi-hats solve a problem that many drummers face, how to practice at home without disturbing family members, roommates, or neighbors. These are 80 percent quieter than traditional cymbals while maintaining the feel and response of real cymbals.
For anyone who has practiced on electronic drum kits with rubber hi-hat pads, the difference is night and day. The L80s give you actual metal beneath your sticks, with real rebound and acoustic response that no electronic pad can replicate.
The matte black finish looks distinctive and professional. The sound is quiet but defined, with articulate sticking patterns coming through clearly. You will hear more stick-on-metal sound than tonal ring, but that is the nature of low-volume cymbals.
Practice and Teaching Applications
These are ideal for apartment dwellers, late-night practitioners, drum teachers giving online lessons, and anyone in multifamily living situations. They let you maintain your acoustic drum kit setup while keeping volume at manageable levels.
Many online drum teachers use the L80 series specifically because they produce enough acoustic sound for the player to hear, without overwhelming microphone input or causing audio bleed in lesson recordings.
What to Know Before Buying
The L80s are designed specifically for practice and low-volume situations. They are not suitable for live performance, recording, or any context where you need full cymbal volume and tone. They are a specialized tool, not a general-purpose pair.
Some users have reported shipping issues where only one cymbal arrived instead of the pair. This is a fulfillment problem rather than a product issue, but it is worth checking your package contents immediately upon delivery and contacting the seller if anything is missing.
How to Choose the Best Hi Hat Cymbals?
Choosing the right hi-hat cymbals comes down to understanding how material, size, and sound character affect your playing. This buying guide breaks down the key factors so you can make an informed decision based on your genre, budget, and skill level.
Cymbal Material and Alloy Type
The alloy your hi-hats are made from is the single biggest factor in sound quality. B20 bronze (20 percent tin, 80 percent copper) is the gold standard for professional cymbals, offering complex, warm, and musical tones with rich overtones. Cast B20 bronze cymbals like the Zildjian A New Beats and A Custom Mastersound represent the pinnacle of cymbal craftsmanship.
B8 bronze (8 percent tin) is the mid-tier option, delivering brighter, more focused sounds with good projection but less complexity than B20. The Paiste PST 7 and Sabian B8X use this alloy effectively for budget-conscious drummers who want real bronze sound.
Brass is the entry-level material, producing bright but thin tones with limited dynamic range. Brass cymbals like the Meinl HCS and Sabian SBR are affordable starting points but will not satisfy experienced ears. The Reddit drum community consistently emphasizes B20 bronze as the quality benchmark worth saving up for.
Size Guide: 13 inch vs 14 inch vs 15 inch
14 inch is the universal standard for hi-hat cymbals and the safest choice for most drummers. It provides the ideal balance between chick sound definition and wash complexity. Every pair on this list is 14 inches, which tells you something about the industry standard.
13 inch hi-hats produce a tighter, more focused chick sound with faster response. They are favored by drummers who play intricate foot patterns and want maximum articulation. The smaller surface area means less wash when opened, which some players prefer for cleaner timekeeping.
15 inch hi-hats offer a bigger, more open sound with more wash and lower fundamental pitch. Jazz drummers often prefer the washy, expressive character of larger hi-hats. The Zildjian K Sweet 15 inch hi-hats are a popular choice in this category, though they are not on our current list.
Sound Characteristics: Bright vs Dark
Bright cymbals have higher frequency content, more cut, and faster decay. They work well for rock, pop, metal, and any genre where your hi-hats need to slice through a dense mix. The Zildjian A series and Sabian B8X lean bright.
Dark cymbals have lower frequency dominance, more wash, and longer sustain. They suit jazz, blues, indie, and acoustic music where a warmer, more textured sound is desired. The Zildjian S Dark series and K series represent the dark end of the spectrum.
Key sound terms to understand include the chick (the closed sound when pedaling), wash (the sustained sound when open), stick definition (how clearly each stroke is heard), and projection (how well the sound carries through a mix).
Matching Hi-Hats to Your Genre
For rock and metal, look for bright, cutting cymbals with tight chick sounds and strong projection. The Zildjian A New Beats, A Custom Mastersound, and S Dark series all work well depending on whether you want bright or dark rock tones.
For jazz, darker cymbals with more wash and complexity are traditional choices. While our list skews toward brighter and budget options, the Paiste PST 7 with its warm, balanced character works beautifully for jazz at its price point.
For beginners, prioritize value and versatility. The Meinl HCS and Zildjian I Series offer the best combination of sound quality and affordability. You can always upgrade later once you develop your ear and know what sound you want.
Budget vs Professional Investment
Under $100, you are looking at brass cymbals like the Meinl HCS and Sabian SBR. These are functional starters that sound better than stock cymbals but lack the depth for serious playing.
In the $100 to $250 range, B8 bronze options like the Paiste PST 7, Sabian B8X, and Zildjian I Series deliver genuine bronze sound quality. This is the sweet spot for intermediate drummers who want good sound without a major investment.
Above $300, you enter B20 bronze territory with professional-grade options. The Zildjian A New Beats, A Custom Mastersound, and S Dark series represent lifetime investments that will serve you across every genre and setting.
FAQs
Is Sabian or Zildjian better?
Both Sabian and Zildjian are top-tier cymbal brands with centuries of combined craftsmanship. Zildjian is the older company (founded in 1623) and tends to have a more consistent sound across their lines. Sabian was founded by a former Zildjian family member and offers excellent value, especially in their B8X and HH series. The best choice depends on the specific cymbal line and your sound preferences rather than the brand name alone.
What are considered the best hi hat cymbals?
The Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch hi-hats are widely regarded as the best all-purpose hi-hats ever made. For premium sound, the Zildjian A Custom Mastersound and K series are top choices. For value, the Paiste PST 7 and Meinl HCS consistently earn the highest ratings in their price ranges. The best choice depends on your genre, budget, and tonal preferences.
What size hi hat cymbals should I get?
14 inch is the standard size and the safest choice for most drummers, offering the best balance of chick definition and wash complexity. 13 inch hi-hats produce a tighter, more focused sound ideal for intricate patterns. 15 inch hi-hats offer a bigger, more open sound favored by jazz drummers. If you are unsure, go with 14 inch.
What is the difference between Zildjian K and A series?
The Zildjian A series produces bright, crisp, and cutting sounds with traditional character, making them versatile for rock, pop, and funk. The K series produces darker, warmer, and more complex tones with richer overtones, favored by jazz and blues drummers. A series cymbals use cast B20 bronze with traditional finishing, while K series uses the same alloy with different hammering and lathing techniques to achieve their darker voice.
Are expensive hi hat cymbals worth it?
Yes, if you are serious about drumming. B20 bronze cymbals like the Zildjian A New Beats produce noticeably richer, more complex, and more musical tones than budget alternatives. They also last decades with proper care, making them better long-term investments than repeatedly replacing cheaper cymbals. However, beginners can start with brass or B8 options under $150 and upgrade once they develop their ear and know what sound they want.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hi Hat Cymbals
The best hi hat cymbals for you depend on where you are in your drumming journey and what sound you need. For most drummers, the Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch pair remains the gold standard, offering unmatched versatility and professional sound quality that justifies the investment.
If budget is a concern, the Meinl HCS and Paiste PST 7 deliver exceptional value at very different price points. The PST 7 in particular offers near-professional sound at a fraction of premium prices, making it my top recommendation for intermediate players looking to upgrade.
Whatever pair you choose, investing in quality hi-hats transforms your drumming experience. Your hi-hats are the voice of your groove, and the right pair will inspire you to play better every time you sit behind the kit.
