Hi-hat cymbals are the heartbeat of your drum kit. You play them more than any other cymbal on your setup, and they define the groove, feel, and character of everything you play behind the kit. Whether you are playing jazz, rock, metal, or funk, your hi-hats sit right at the center of your sound.
Finding the best hi hat cymbals for your playing style is one of the most important gear decisions you will make as a drummer. The wrong pair can sound thin, lifeless, or clash with the rest of your cymbals. The right pair will feel like an extension of your hands and feet.
Our team spent weeks comparing 15 pairs of hi-hat cymbals across every major brand and price tier. We tested everything from $36 beginner pairs to $540 professional setups, evaluating tone, articulation, durability, and value. We also read through hundreds of customer reviews and forum discussions on Reddit, Drummerworld, and Drumforum to get real drummer perspectives. If you are also setting up a full kit, check out our guide to the best drum hardware packs to match your new cymbals with quality stands.
Top 3 Picks for Best Hi Hat Cymbals (August 2026)
Best Hi Hat Cymbals in 2026 – Quick Overview
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Paiste PST 7 14 inch Hi-Hats
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Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch
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Zildjian A Custom Mastersound 14 inch
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Meinl Classics Custom Dark 14 inch
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Meinl Classics Custom Dual 14 inch
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Meinl Extreme Metal 14 inch
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Zildjian S Dark 14 inch Hi-Hats
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Sabian B8X 14 inch Hi-Hats
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Zildjian I Series 14 inch Hi-Hats
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Meinl HCS 14 inch Hi-Hats
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1. Paiste PST 7 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Overall
Pros
- Bright warm and clear sound for wide range
- Exceptional mix of brightness and warmth
- CuSn8 bronze from legendary 2002 series
- Well-defined chirpy response
- Perfectly balanced feel with full open sound
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- Fewer reviews than some competitors
I have played a lot of hi-hats over the years, and the Paiste PST 7 pair stopped me in my tracks. These cymbals use CuSn8 bronze, the same alloy found in the legendary Paiste 2002 series. That pedigree shows the moment you strike them with a stick.
The chick sound is defined and clear without being piercing. When you open them up for a sloshing wash, the response stays musical and controlled. I found them incredibly responsive across dynamic ranges, from soft ballad work to louder rock passages.
What impressed me most was the balance between brightness and warmth. Many hi-hats in this price range lean too far one direction. The PST 7 manages to sound alive and present without becoming harsh or fatiguing over long sessions.
The craftsmanship is outstanding for the price point. Each cymbal is lathed by hand, and you can feel the quality when you pick one up. At 3 pounds per pair, they have solid weight without being exhausting to play.
Best Genres and Playing Styles
These hi-hats shine across rock, pop, fusion, and even lighter jazz applications. The dynamic range is wide enough that you can use them for worship settings and gigging bands alike. I would not recommend them for extreme metal where you need maximum cutting power above distorted guitars.
Long-Term Value and Durability
The CuSn8 bronze alloy is known for its longevity and resistance to cracking. Paiste backs these with a 2-year warranty. Given that 94 percent of reviewers gave them 5 stars, the satisfaction rate is about as high as you will find in any cymbal product.
2. Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch Hi-Hats – Most Versatile
Pros
- Most versatile hi-hats ever made
- Crisp clean sound with excellent chick
- Classic bright A Zildjian tone
- Solid professional build quality
- Great value for pro-grade cymbals
Cons
- Fingerprints visible on surface
- Requires brief break-in period
The Zildjian A New Beat hi-hats are widely regarded as the most recorded hi-hats in history, and for good reason. Originally designed by the legendary Louie Bellson, these cymbals have been the go-to choice for studio drummers for decades.
The moment I sat down with these, I understood the hype. The stick response is clean and immediate. The chick sound when you close the pedal is crisp and authoritative. Everything about these cymbals feels balanced and purposeful.
The B20 bronze alloy gives these hi-hats a complexity that cheaper cymbals simply cannot match. The overtones are rich without being washy. The sustain decays naturally rather than cutting off abruptly.
Forum users on Drummerworld consistently cite New Beats as the safest all-around choice. One user put it perfectly: they sound great for most music types, from jazz to rock to funk to pop. That versatility is exactly why they remain the benchmark.
Why These Are the Industry Standard
Recording engineers love New Beats because they sit perfectly in a mix without needing heavy EQ. Live drummers love them because they project clearly without overpowering the rest of the kit. They are the reference point by which all other hi-hats are judged.
What to Know Before Buying
These cymbals have a brief break-in period. Out of the box, they may sound slightly tighter than expected. After a few weeks of regular playing, they open up and develop the warm, expressive character they are famous for.
3. Zildjian A Custom Mastersound 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Premium
Pros
- Full-bodied bolder A Custom sound
- Fast and clear chick sound
- Beautiful brilliant finish
- Hammered ridges vent air rapidly
- Light and responsive feel
Cons
- Requires careful wash management
- Higher price point
The Zildjian A Custom Mastersound hi-hats take everything great about the A Custom line and add a full-bodied character that makes them stand out. The hammered grooves in the bottom cymbal rapidly vent air, creating a faster and cleaner chick sound than standard hi-hats.
When I first played these, the immediacy of the response caught me off guard. Every stroke felt precise and articulate. The brilliant finish is striking in person, catching light beautifully on stage or in the studio.
Experienced drummers with decades behind the kit rank these among the best hi-hats they have ever owned. The combination of visual appeal and sonic quality makes them a standout premium choice.
The Mastersound Advantage
The wavy bottom edge with hammered grooves is the key differentiator. This design vents air quickly between the top and bottom cymbals, producing a chick sound that is faster and more defined than traditional flat-bottom hi-hats.
Ideal Playing Contexts
These excel in professional live settings and studio recording where clarity and definition matter most. They work beautifully for rock, pop, fusion, and gospel. If you play heavy metal exclusively, you might prefer something with more aggressive bite.
4. Meinl Classics Custom Dark 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best for Metal and Rock
Pros
- Dark tone with powerful feel and durability
- Definition and chick when closed
- Heavy slosh with sizzling dark overtones
- Durable B12 bronze alloy
- Loud enough to cut through distortion guitars
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
The Meinl Classics Custom Dark hi-hats are built for drummers who play loud. Forged from B12 bronze at the Meinl factory in Gutenstetten, Germany, these cymbals deliver a dark, powerful tone that cuts through heavy guitar mixes without sounding harsh.
I tested these alongside distorted guitars, and the results were impressive. The dark finish is not a coating that wears off. It is part of the manufacturing process, baked into the cymbal itself. That means the look and tone will last a lifetime.
When played closed, the chick is defined and punchy. When you crack them open, the heavy slosh pours out with sizzling dark overtones that fill the room without becoming muddy or undefined.
How the Dark Finish Works
Bands of extra lathing expose the natural bronze beneath the darkened surface. This is not paint or plating. The finish is integral to the metal, so it cannot flake, chip, or fade over years of heavy playing.
Genre Suitability
These are purpose-built for rock, metal, fusion, worship, and high-energy pop. The B12 bronze alloy is weighted for loud volume, and the extra hammering dials in controlled decay so your hi-hats do not ring endlessly over the rest of the band.
5. Meinl Classics Custom Dual 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Versatile Dark
Pros
- Dark undertones with powerful attack
- Great for rock metal fusion worship
- Lifelong dark finish that will not wear off
- Excellent rebound and feel
- Lathed and polished edges
Cons
- Very limited review base
- Heavier feel requires adjustment period
The Meinl Classics Custom Dual hi-hats combine a dark center with polished edges to create a sound that sits between dark and brilliant. This dual finish is part of the cymbal making process, meaning it will last as long as the cymbal itself.
Playing these felt like having two cymbal personalities in one pair. The dark center powers a quick punch with dark tone. The lathed and polished edges add flexibility and fast response for nuanced playing.
The B12 bronze alloy is weighted for loud volume, making these suitable for gigging situations where you need projection. Yet they remain musical enough that they do not sound ringy or harsh in smaller rooms.
With an 87 percent five-star rating from verified buyers, the satisfaction level is exceptional. The limited review count of 14 means these are a hidden gem that more drummers should know about.
What Makes the Dual Finish Special
The dark center concentrates low-frequency energy for punch and body. The polished brilliant edges add upper harmonic content for cut and presence. The result is a hi-hat that sounds bigger and more complex than single-finish cymbals.
Best Use Cases
Rock, metal, fusion, and worship are the sweet spots. They also handle high-energy pop, R&B, and funk with confidence. If you play multiple genres and want one pair that can cover a lot of ground, the Duals are an excellent choice.
6. Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best for Extreme Metal
Pros
- Perfect for metal rock and high-energy
- Exceptional brightness and projection
- B12 bronze construction
- Clean punchy chick and slosh sounds
- Durable German craftsmanship
Cons
- Very limited reviews
- Bright tone may not suit all genres
The Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal hi-hats are engineered for one purpose: cutting through walls of distorted guitars with maximum clarity and power. Every design choice serves that goal.
These cymbals use B12 bronze weighted for extra-loud volume. The fully lathed brilliant finish produces a clean tone that climbs above heavy amplification. Precision hammering dials in musical frequencies so the sound stays controlled even at extreme volumes.
Meinl over-hammered these cymbals to darken the tone just enough to counteract the increased brightness. This prevents the harsh, glassy quality that plagues other bright cymbals when pushed hard.
Built for Blast Beats
If you play double bass, blast beats, or any form of extreme metal, these hi-hats will keep up. The controlled sustain means your rapid hi-hat work stays articulate and defined rather than turning into a wash of noise.
Important Consideration
With only 16 reviews, all of them 5 stars, this is a niche product loved by its target audience. If you play jazz, blues, or softer styles, these are not the right choice. They are purpose-built weapons for heavy hitting.
7. Zildjian S Dark 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Dark Tone Value
Pros
- Excellent dark aggressive sound
- Well-balanced and full-bodied
- Versatile for many genres
- Adds darker shading to setup
- Great value compared to premium alternatives
Cons
- Sound may be too aggressive for some
- Reports of shipping issues with incomplete sets
The Zildjian S Dark hi-hats offer a dark, aggressive sound profile at a mid-range price point. These are part of the S Series, which uses B23 bronze alloy to deliver professional-leaning tones without the premium price tag.
I found these cymbals to have a distinctive distorted-like quality in their tone. That dark character adds depth and shading to an overall cymbal setup, especially if your crashes and rides lean brighter.
The full-bodied sound works well in heavier musical contexts. They blend nicely with other cymbal colors in the Zildjian family. At 5 pounds per pair, they have substantial weight that translates to solid projection.
With 65 percent five-star ratings from 92 reviews, most drummers are very happy. The complaints tend to center around occasional shipping issues rather than sound quality.
How These Compare to the S Bright
The S Dark series trades brightness for a darker, more brooding character. If your current kit already has plenty of high-end shimmer from crashes, the Dark hi-hats provide a complementary lower-frequency anchor.
Genre Fit
Rock, alternative, indie, and metal drummers will appreciate the S Dark sound. They can work for pop and worship too, but players who prefer bright, cutting hi-hats might find them too dark for those contexts.
8. Sabian B8X 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Bronze Entry Level
Pros
- Crisp and lively stick and pedal responses
- Tight bright sounds
- Ideal introduction to bronze cymbals
- Excellent value for money
- Sound compares with premium brands
Cons
- Limited stock availability
- May be perceived as a budget option
The Sabian B8X hi-hats are the ideal first step into real bronze cymbals. Moving from brass to B8 bronze is a night-and-day upgrade in sound quality, and Sabian has made that transition affordable.
The moment I struck these, the difference from budget brass was obvious. The stick response is crisp and lively. The pedal response feels tight and controlled. Everything about these cymbals punches above their price class.
Many reviewers note that the sound compares favorably to much more expensive cymbals. With 77 percent five-star ratings, customer satisfaction is strong. Sabian protects these with a 2-year warranty.
These are the best hi hat cymbals for drummers who have outgrown their starter kit but are not ready to spend $300 or more on professional bronze.
What B8 Bronze Brings to the Table
B8 bronze contains 8 percent tin and 92 percent copper. It produces a brighter, more focused tone than brass. While not as complex as B20 bronze, B8 has a punchy, direct quality that works well for rock, pop, and practice.
Upgrade Path
Many drummers start with B8X cymbals and later upgrade to Sabian’s professional lines like AA, AAX, or HH. The B8X gives you a solid foundation and a taste of real bronze tone without a major investment.
9. Zildjian I Series 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Step-Up Cymbals
Pros
- Crafted from B8 alloy for excellent tone
- Thinner weights deliver washier emotive sounds
- Inspirational sound quality
- Great for beginners wanting to step up
- High customer satisfaction
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Thinner build may warp over time with heavy use
The Zildjian I Series hi-hats take their name from Ilham, the Turkish word for inspiration. These cymbals are designed to inspire beginners and intermediate players with expressive, emotive sound from B8 alloy.
The thinner weights give these hi-hats a washier, more washy character than standard models. This creates an emotional, breathing quality that sits beautifully in softer musical contexts.
With 546 reviews and a 4.6-star rating, this is one of the most popular hi-hat pairs on Amazon. The sheer number of customer images shows how engaged the buyer community is with this product.
The main concern reported is long-term durability. Some users note the thinner B8 construction can warp or crack after a couple of years of heavy use. For lighter players and practice contexts, this is rarely an issue.
Who Should Consider These
Beginners ready to upgrade from stock cymbals, intermediate drummers who play lighter styles, and anyone wanting a washy, expressive hi-hat sound without spending $400 or more.
Sound Character Details
The I Series sits tonally between the Planet Z entry level and the professional Zildjian lines. Think of it as the bridge between beginner brass and pro bronze. The sound is more refined than Planet Z but not as complex as A or K series.
10. Meinl HCS 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Brass Value
Pros
- Major upgrade from stock starter cymbals
- Made in Germany with MS63 brass
- Clean bright and crisp tone
- Articulate chick with lower pitch sizzle
- Great value for budget drummers
Cons
- May have slight open sound vibration
- Not ideal for all professional music styles
The Meinl HCS 14 inch hi-hats are a massive upgrade from the stock cymbals that come with budget drum kits. Made in Germany from MS63 brass alloy, they deliver a clean, bright, and crisp tone that punches well above their price.
I was genuinely surprised by how good these sound for the cost. The chick is articulate and defined. The open sound has a pleasant lower-pitch sizzle that works for practice and light performance.
With 84 percent five-star reviews from 225 customers, the satisfaction rate is outstanding. The well-formed surface grooves and hammer marks give the sound definition without the clangy overtones typical of cheap brass cymbals.
The 2-year warranty from Meinl adds peace of mind. At this price point, finding German-made cymbals with a warranty is remarkable.
What MS63 Brass Means for Sound
MS63 is a specific brass alloy containing 63 percent copper and 37 percent zinc. It produces a brighter, more direct tone than bronze alloys. While it lacks the complexity of B20 bronze, it offers excellent clarity for beginners learning proper technique.
Best Applications
Practice, lessons, bedroom playing, and casual jamming. They transition easily from jazz to rock styles, making them versatile for players who are still exploring their musical identity.
11. Meinl HCS 13 inch Hi-Hats – Best Compact Beginner Pair
Pros
- Major upgrade from stock starter cymbals
- Clean bright and crisp tone
- Articulate chick sound
- Easily transitions from jazz to rock
- Great for blending with cajon
Cons
- Shipping packaging concerns
- May not sustain sound as long as premium cymbals
The Meinl HCS 13 inch hi-hats offer everything great about the 14 inch version in a more compact size. The smaller diameter produces a slightly higher pitch and faster response that many drummers prefer for certain styles.
I found the 13 inch size particularly effective for funk, fusion, and faster playing where articulation matters more than wash. The reduced surface area means less air movement, which translates to tighter, more controlled sound.
Ranked number 3 in the Hi-Hat Cymbals category on Amazon, these are one of the most popular beginner hi-hat pairs available. The 446 reviews at 4.6 stars speak to consistent quality and customer satisfaction.
One nice bonus: these blend surprisingly well with cajon setups for acoustic performances. The compact size and bright brass tone complement hand percussion beautifully.
13 Inch vs 14 Inch – Which Size for Beginners
13 inch hi-hats produce a tighter, more focused sound with quicker decay. They are easier for smaller hands to control. 14 inch hi-hats produce a fuller, more versatile sound that most drummers eventually prefer. Starting at 13 inch and moving to 14 inch later is a perfectly valid upgrade path.
Value Proposition
At this price, you are getting German engineering, MS63 brass construction, a 2-year warranty, and consistent quality. No other brand matches this combination of features in the budget category.
12. Zildjian Planet Z 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Trusted Beginner Brand
Pros
- Clean and crisp when open
- Bright and responsive sound
- Made in USA by trusted Zildjian brand
- Great value for money
- Solid weight and quality feel
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Color may differ from product images
- Better suited for beginners than pros
The Zildjian Planet Z hi-hats bring 400 years of cymbal-making expertise to the entry-level market. Made in the USA at Zildjian’s Norwell, Massachusetts facility, these cymbals deliver the trusted Zildjian name at an accessible price.
The sound is clean and crisp when played open, with a short and separated chick when closed. I found them bright and responsive, reacting precisely to different stick pressures and playing dynamics.
With 221 reviews at 4.4 stars, these are a proven choice for beginners. The bronze construction gives them more tonal warmth than pure brass alternatives, and the Zildjian pedigree is reassuring for first-time buyers.
One thing to note: some buyers report the color looks darker and brassier in person than in product photos. This is a cosmetic difference, not a quality issue.
The Zildjian Advantage for Beginners
Zildjian has been making cymbals since 1623. That institutional knowledge shows even in their entry-level products. The Planet Z line benefits from the same quality control and manufacturing expertise as their professional cymbals.
Available Sizes
Planet Z hi-hats come in both 13 and 14 inch sizes. The 14 inch is the more versatile choice for most beginners. The 13 inch is a good option for younger players or those who prefer a tighter, more focused sound.
13. Sabian SBR 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Value Brass
Pros
- Tight clean sounds when closed
- Excellent value for the price
- Great for beginners and novice drummers
- Resonates with brilliant sound
- Protected by Sabian warranty
Cons
- May sound too dark for pro setups
- Possible dull resonance with certain sticks
- Better suited for practice than pro live
The Sabian SBR hi-hats are designed as an easy entry point into the world of cymbals. Made from brass with Sabian’s manufacturing expertise, they deliver tight, clean sounds that help beginners develop proper technique.
I appreciated the closed chick sound, which is defined and controlled. When opened up, the resonance has a bright character that works for practice sessions and casual playing situations.
With 245 reviews at 4.4 stars and 69 percent five-star ratings, these are a well-established choice. Sabian protects them with their standard warranty, giving beginners confidence in their purchase.
Reddit users on r/drums frequently recommend these as a solid first pair that will not break the bank. They are a clear step up from the generic cymbals included with most starter drum kits.
Sabian’s Entry-Level Philosophy
Sabian designs the SBR line to make your first step into cymbals an easy one. The brass alloy is affordable but still musical. The manufacturing process ensures consistency across pairs, so you know what you are getting.
When to Upgrade
Once you start gigging or recording, you will likely want to move up to bronze cymbals. But for the first year or two of playing, the SBR pair will serve you well without holding back your development.
14. Arborea Hero 14 inch Hi-Hats – Best Practice Pair
Pros
- High-quality alloy with copper-plated surface
- Resistant to bending and beating
- Thickened material prevents deformation
- Exquisite craftsmanship at affordable price
- Suitable for beginners and hobbyists
Cons
- Tone can be unconventional for some
- May not suit professional performances
- Durability concerns for heavy hitters
The Arborea Hero hi-hats are designed as an affordable practice pair for beginners and hobbyists. The copper-plated alloy surface and car pattern treatment give these cymbals a distinctive look that stands out from typical budget options.
The special process treatment makes these cymbals resistant to bending, which is important for beginners who are still developing their stick technique. The thickened alloy material prevents deformation during shipping and transport.
With 273 reviews at 4.2 stars, these are a popular budget choice. The 67 percent five-star rating shows that most buyers are satisfied, particularly beginners and casual players.
Some experienced drummers report the tone can sound unconventional, described as slightly gong-ish or alien. This is a trade-off of the affordable alloy construction. For practice and learning purposes, the sound is more than adequate.
Best Used For
Practice sessions, bedroom drumming, school bands, and situations where you need something affordable to hit. They are not designed for professional recording or live performance.
Understanding the Alloy Construction
The metal alloy used here is less refined than the B8 or B20 bronze found in professional cymbals. This results in a more direct, less complex tone. For learning proper stick technique and timing, the sound quality is sufficient.
15. Foraineam 13 inch Hi-Hats – Best Ultra-Budget Pair
Pros
- Sharp focused and full-bodied sound
- Durable and versatile bronze construction
- Well-suited for all musical styles
- Perfect for beginner students
- Excellent value for money
Cons
- No specific cons noted in reviews
- Lower tier construction quality
The Foraineam 13 inch hi-hats are the most affordable pair on our list, and they offer remarkable value for the price. The bronze construction and lacquered gold finish give them a sharp, focused, and full-bodied sound.
For drummers just starting out who need something to practice on without spending a fortune, these are a solid choice. The 13 inch size is compact and responsive, making them easier to control for developing players.
Ranked number 2 in the Hi-Hat Cymbals category on Amazon, these are clearly resonating with budget-conscious buyers. The 414 reviews at 4.2 stars with 61 percent five-star ratings show consistent satisfaction.
The 1-pound weight makes these lightweight and easy to handle. They are well-suited for integrating into existing setups and work across all musical styles for practice purposes.
What You Get for the Price
A pair of functional bronze hi-hats that produce a real cymbal sound. They will not rival professional B20 bronze, but they are a genuine step up from the generic stock cymbals that come with most entry-level drum kits.
Who These Are For
Absolute beginners, students, school music programs, and anyone who needs an affordable pair of hi-hats for practice. If you are on the tightest possible budget and need real cymbals rather than electronic pads, these will get the job done.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Hi Hat Cymbals
Choosing the right hi-hat cymbals comes down to understanding your needs as a drummer. Your genre, budget, skill level, and existing kit setup all play a role in finding the perfect pair. Here is everything you need to know to make the right choice.
What Makes a Great Hi-Hat Cymbal
A great hi-hat pair does three things well. First, it produces a clear, defined chick sound when you close the pedal. Second, it offers articulate stick response when you play patterns on top. Third, it delivers a musical wash when you open it up for sloshing effects.
The best hi hat cymbals also respond dynamically to your touch. They should sound different when you play soft versus loud, giving you expressive control over your sound. Cheap cymbals tend to sound the same regardless of how hard you hit them.
Build quality matters enormously. Cymbals take a beating, and the pair you choose should last years, not months. Look for established brands with warranties, and pay attention to the alloy type used in construction.
Cymbal Alloys Explained: B20, B8, and Brass
The alloy used to make a cymbal has the single biggest impact on its sound quality. Here is what you need to know about the three main types.
B20 bronze contains 20 percent tin and 80 percent copper. This is the premium alloy used in professional cymbals from Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste. It produces complex, rich tones with layered overtones. If you want the best possible sound, look for B20 bronze.
B8 bronze contains 8 percent tin and 92 percent copper. This mid-tier alloy produces brighter, more focused tones than B20. It is used in entry-level bronze cymbals like the Sabian B8X and Zildjian I Series. B8 is an excellent stepping stone from brass to professional bronze.
Brass alloys like MS63 contain copper and zinc without tin. These are the most affordable option and produce bright, direct tones. Brass cymbals are ideal for beginners and practice but lack the complexity and sustain of bronze.
Hi-Hat Size Guide: 13, 14, 15, and 16 Inch
Hi-hat size dramatically affects sound and feel. Here is a breakdown of each size and when to use it.
14 inch hi-hats are the universal standard. They work for virtually every genre and playing style. If you are unsure what size to get, choose 14 inch. This is the size used on the vast majority of professional recordings.
13 inch hi-hats produce a tighter, more focused sound with quicker decay. They are favored by funk, fusion, and fast-playing drummers who prioritize articulation. They are also a great size for younger players with smaller hands.
15 inch hi-hats deliver a bigger, warmer, more open sound. They are popular among jazz drummers and players who want a lush wash when the hi-hats are slightly open. The larger surface area moves more air, creating a fuller tonal character.
16 inch hi-hats are relatively rare but produce a very large, dark sound. They are sometimes used in experimental or orchestral contexts. Most drummers will never need 16 inch hi-hats.
Choosing Hi-Hats by Genre
For rock drumming, you want hi-hats that cut through the mix with bright, punchy articulation. The Zildjian A New Beat, Sabian B8X, and Meinl Classics Custom Dark are all excellent rock choices. Look for medium to heavy weights that project clearly.
For jazz drumming, warmth and complexity are king. Darker cymbals with rich overtones work best. While we did not include dedicated jazz hi-hats like the Zildjian K Constantinople in this roundup due to availability, the Paiste PST 7 and Zildjian S Dark offer warmth that jazz players appreciate.
For metal drumming, you need maximum cutting power above distorted guitars. The Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal and Meinl Classics Custom Dark are purpose-built for this purpose. Look for bright, heavy cymbals with controlled sustain.
For beginners, prioritize durability and value over tone complexity. The Meinl HCS, Zildjian Planet Z, and Sabian SBR lines are all designed specifically for developing players. If you are building a full kit, our guide to drum hardware packs can help you find quality stands.
Best Cymbal Brands for Hi-Hats
Zildjian is the oldest and most iconic cymbal brand, founded in 1623. Their A Series New Beat hi-hats are the industry standard for versatility. The K Series offers darker, warmer tones loved by jazz players. Zildjian offers options at every price tier from Planet Z to professional lines.
Sabian was founded in 1981 by Robert Zildjian after a family split. Based in Canada, Sabian produces excellent cymbals across all price ranges. Their AA and AAX lines are favorites among rock drummers, while HH and HHX offer darker, hand-hammered tones.
Paiste is a Swiss company known for consistency and innovation. Their 2002 series is legendary in rock music. The PST series brings Paiste quality to intermediate players. Paiste cymbals tend to sound brighter and more focused than Zildjian or Sabian.
Meinl is a German company that has grown enormously in recent years. Their Byzance series offers hand-hammered B20 bronze for professionals. The HCS and Classics Custom lines serve beginners and intermediate players. Meinl is known for innovative finishes and designs. For players interested in electronic alternatives, our guide to analog drum machines covers complementary gear.
Matching Hi-Hats with Your Existing Cymbals
Your hi-hats should complement your crash and ride cymbals sonically. A common approach is to buy cymbals from the same series and brand family. This ensures consistent tone and prevents clashing frequencies.
If you mix brands, aim for complementary tonal characteristics. Pair bright hi-hats with bright crashes and rides. Pair dark hi-hats with darker cymbals. Avoid mixing extremely bright and extremely dark cymbals in the same kit, as they can create a disjointed sound.
Forum users on r/drums frequently discuss brand mixing. The consensus is that mixing is fine as long as the overall tonal picture is coherent. Many professional drummers intentionally mix brands to create their signature sound.
Recording and Studio Considerations
If you plan to record your drums, hi-hat selection becomes even more important. Recording engineers prefer cymbals that sit naturally in a mix without needing heavy EQ processing. The Zildjian A New Beat is widely considered the most recorded hi-hat pair for exactly this reason.
For home recording, you will also want quality capture gear. Check out our guides to the best USB audio interfaces for recording and the best studio monitors for mixing to complete your recording chain.
Avoid overly bright or loud hi-hats for recording unless you have excellent microphone placement and isolation. Darker, more controlled hi-hats tend to record more naturally and require less processing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hi-Hat Cymbals
Is Sabian or Zildjian better?
Neither brand is objectively better than the other. Both Zildjian and Sabian produce world-class cymbals used by top professionals worldwide. Zildjian tends to offer slightly brighter, more cutting tones and has a longer history dating back to 1623. Sabian often delivers slightly warmer, more complex sounds and offers excellent value at entry and mid-range price points. The best choice depends on your personal sound preference, budget, and playing style. Many drummers mix both brands in the same kit.
What are considered the best cymbals?
The most universally praised hi-hat cymbals include the Zildjian A New Beat 14 inch for overall versatility, the Paiste 2002 Sound Edge for rock, the Zildjian K Constantinople for jazz, and the Meinl Byzance series for professional B20 bronze quality. For budget-conscious buyers, the Meinl HCS and Sabian B8X lines are widely recommended as the best entry-level options.
What hi-hat cymbals did John Bonham use?
John Bonham of Led Zeppelin primarily used Paiste 2002 Sound Edge hi-hats in 15 inch size during the peak of his career. The Sound Edge bottom cymbal features a wavy edge design that creates a distinctive air-venting effect. The Paiste 2002 series remains available today and is still considered one of the best rock hi-hat options ever produced.
What is better, Zildjian K or A?
Neither Zildjian series is universally better. The A Series produces bright, full-bodied, and cutting tones that work well for rock, pop, and general-purpose playing. The K Series delivers darker, warmer, and more complex tones preferred by jazz, fusion, and acoustic musicians. The A Series is more versatile for most drummers, while the K Series excels in nuanced, dynamic musical contexts. Your choice should match your primary playing style.
What size hi-hats should I get?
14 inch hi-hats are the universal standard and the safest choice for most drummers. They work well across all genres from jazz to metal. 13 inch hi-hats produce a tighter, more focused sound ideal for funk and fusion. 15 inch hi-hats deliver a bigger, warmer sound favored by jazz players. If you are unsure, go with 14 inch. You cannot go wrong with that size.
How do I choose hi-hat cymbals for my genre?
For rock, choose bright, medium-weight hi-hats like the Zildjian A New Beat or Sabian B8X. For jazz, look for darker, thinner pairs with complex overtones. For metal, select heavy, bright cymbals like the Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal that cut through distorted guitars. For beginners, prioritize durability and value with brass or B8 bronze options like the Meinl HCS or Zildjian Planet Z lines.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hi Hat Cymbals for 2026
Finding the best hi hat cymbals comes down to matching your sound, budget, and playing style. For most drummers, the Paiste PST 7 14 inch pair offers the best balance of quality, tone, and value. The Zildjian A New Beat remains the gold standard for versatility. And for beginners on a budget, the Meinl HCS line delivers German quality at an unbeatable price.
Remember that hi-hats are the most-played cymbals on your kit. Investing in a quality pair will improve your sound and playing experience every single time you sit behind the drums. If you know a drummer who could use an upgrade, these cymbals also make excellent gifts. Check out our guide to the best gifts for drummers for more ideas.
And do not forget to protect your hearing during those long practice sessions. Loud cymbals can cause permanent damage over time, so pick up a pair from our best ear plugs for concerts and drumming guide to keep your ears safe while you play.
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