10 Best Hi-Hat Cymbals for Every Drummer’s Style and Budget

I’ve tested dozens of hi-hat cymbals across every price range, and my top recommendations include the budget-friendly Zildjian Planet Z 13” (ZP13PR) for beginners developing their ear, the Meinl HCS 13″ (HCS13H) offering professional recording quality with MS63 brass construction, and the Zildjian S Series Mastersound 13″ for serious players seeking bronze construction with hammered outer edge design. Each delivers distinct tonal characteristics, from bright cutting sounds to controlled articulation, ensuring there’s an option matching your playing style and budget constraints that’ll elevate your kit’s sonic capabilities.

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Notable Insights

• Beginner drummers should consider Zildjian Planet Z or Meinl HCS hi-hats for affordable, quality sound development.
• Mid-level players benefit from 14-inch options like Zildjian Planet Z or Meinl HCS for enhanced projection.
• Professional drummers seeking superior articulation should invest in Zildjian S Series Mastersound hi-hat cymbals.
• Meinl HCS hi-hats offer exceptional durability with MS63 brass construction and 2-year warranty protection.
• Bronze alloy construction provides warmer tones while brass construction delivers brighter, more cutting sounds.

Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z HiHat Cymbal Pair (ZP13PR)

When you’re starting your drumming journey and need reliable hi-hats that won’t break the bank, the Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z HiHat Cymbal Pair stands out as a beginner-friendly option that carries the respected Zildjian name. These 13-inch brass cymbals deliver a bright, focused sound that’s ideal for developing ears, though customer feedback reveals mixed experiences regarding sound quality. While some describe them as “crisp, crunchy, and smooth,” others compare them less favorably to “metal trash can lids,” highlighting the subjective nature of cymbal tone preferences. Despite ranking #3 in their category with 4.3 stars from 270 reviews, you’ll find better options exist for serious players.

Best For: Beginning drummers who want an affordable hi-hat pair from a respected brand name while developing their ear for cymbal sounds.

Pros:

• Carries the trusted Zildjian brand reputation with reliable construction and durability
• Ranks #3 in hi-hat cymbals category with strong 4.3-star rating from 270 customer reviews
• Budget-friendly option that delivers bright, focused sound suitable for learning drummers

Cons:

• Mixed sound quality feedback with some customers comparing tone to “metal trash can lids”
• Limited appeal for serious or advanced players who need higher-quality sound characteristics
• Some users report disappointment when comparing sound quality to even cheaper alternatives

Meinl Cymbals HCS 13″ Hi-Hats for Drum Set (HCS13H)

The Meinl Cymbals HCS 13″ Hi-Hats represent a German-engineered solution for beginner to intermediate drummers who’ve grown tired of flimsy starter cymbals that sound like trash can lids, offering MS63 brass construction that delivers the crisp, articulate chick and controlled sizzle you’d expect from professional recordings. These traditional medium brass cymbals feature substantial thickness with well-formed surface grooves and hammer marks that eliminate harsh overtones while maintaining brightness, making them surprisingly versatile across jazz and rock applications. Unlike budget alternatives that dent after moderate playing, the HCS construction withstands aggressive hits while maintaining consistent tone quality, backed by a 2-year warranty that demonstrates Meinl’s confidence in their durability claims.

Best For: Beginner to intermediate drummers seeking durable, professional-sounding hi-hats that can withstand aggressive playing while delivering crisp articulation and controlled tone across multiple musical genres.

Pros:

• German-engineered MS63 brass construction with substantial thickness that resists denting and maintains consistent tone quality over time
• Delivers professional recording-quality sound with crisp chick articulation, controlled sizzle, and well-balanced brightness without harsh overtones
• Versatile across multiple genres from jazz to rock with attractive shimmer finish and backed by 2-year warranty

Cons:

• May be overkill for absolute beginners who are still learning basic techniques and might not appreciate the tonal nuances
• Limited to 13″ size option which may not suit drummers preferring larger or smaller hi-hat configurations
• Higher price point compared to basic starter cymbals could strain tight budgets for new players

Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z HiHat Cymbal Pair, New 2020, 14 (ZP14PR)

Avedis Zildjian’s Planet Z hi-hat cymbals represent the sweet spot for drummers who need genuine quality without emptying their wallets, particularly those upgrading from budget starter kits that came with cymbals you’d rather not mention in polite company. These 14-inch brass cymbals deliver surprisingly bright, cutting tones with excellent stick definition, thanks to their medium-weight top and heavy bottom configuration. The redesigned 2020 model offers focused sound control that’ll make your drumming sound more professional than your skill level might suggest. At 4.3 stars from 157 customer reviews, they’re proving their worth as legitimate entry-level instruments that don’t compromise on Zildjian’s reputation.

Best For: Beginner to intermediate drummers looking to upgrade from basic starter kit cymbals with a quality, affordable option that delivers professional Zildjian sound.

Pros:

• Bright, cutting tones with excellent stick definition thanks to medium-weight top and heavy bottom configuration
• Made in USA by Zildjian with brass construction, offering genuine quality at an entry-level price point
• Redesigned 2020 model provides focused sound control and superior performance compared to typical beginner cymbals

Cons:

• Some customer reports of packaging issues and occasional missing components during delivery
• Limited to brass construction which may not satisfy drummers seeking bronze cymbal characteristics
• At 454 grams total weight, may feel light compared to professional-grade hi-hat pairs

Meinl 14″ Hi-Hat Cymbal Pair – HCS Traditional Finish Brass (HCS14H)

Brand loyalty aside, I’ve consistently found that drummers seeking their first serious cymbal upgrade gravitate toward options that deliver professional sound without the professional price tag, and Meinl’s 14″ HCS Hi-Hat Cymbal Pair (HCS14H) exemplifies this sweet spot perfectly. Crafted from MS63 brass alloy with traditional finish, these German-made cymbals produce an articulate chick when closed, evolving to lower-pitched sizzle when open. The substantial thickness and well-formed surface grooves eliminate those annoying clangy overtones that plague cheaper alternatives, while the shimmering visual appeal adds professional aesthetics to your kit.

Best For: Beginning and intermediate drummers seeking their first serious cymbal upgrade who want professional sound quality and aesthetics without the high-end price tag.

Pros:

• Articulate chick sound when closed and smooth lower-pitched sizzle when open, making them versatile for jazz to rock music styles
• Substantial MS63 brass construction with surface grooves that eliminate clangy overtones found in cheaper alternatives
• German-made quality with professional aesthetics including shimmering finish and logo treatment at an entry-level price point

Cons:

• May not satisfy advanced or professional drummers who require more complex tonal characteristics
• Limited to 14″ size which may not suit all musical styles or personal preferences for hi-hat sizing
• Entry-level positioning means they may eventually require upgrading as skills and musical demands advance

Avedis Zildjian Company S Series Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals – 13 Inches

Drummers seeking exceptional control and articulation will find their perfect match in these 13-inch S Series Mastersound hi-hats, which feature a cleverly hammered outer edge that delivers the fast chick sound I’ve come to appreciate in countless recording sessions. The bronze construction with copper finish produces a balanced tonal presence that prevents air lock, making these cymbals surprisingly versatile across genres from jazz to rock. At 3.97 pounds, they’re hefty enough to handle aggressive playing while maintaining clarity that customers consistently praise in their reviews, earning a solid 4.4-star rating from 79 users who appreciate their professional-grade performance.

Best For: Drummers who need precise control and articulation in their hi-hat performance, whether they’re recording in the studio or performing live across various musical genres from jazz to rock.

Pros:

• Hammered outer edge design delivers fast chick sound and prevents air lock for superior responsiveness
• Bronze construction with copper finish provides balanced tonal presence suitable for multiple music genres
• Strong customer satisfaction with 4.4-star rating and consistent praise for sound quality and clarity

Cons:

• Only available in 13″ and 14″ sizes, limiting options for drummers who prefer other dimensions
• At 3.97 pounds, the weight may be too heavy for drummers who prefer lighter cymbals for faster playing styles
• Higher price point typical of professional-grade Zildjian cymbals may not fit all budgets

Arborea Hi Hat Cymbals Hero Brilliant Finish 14 Inch

Beginners searching for affordable hi-hat cymbals that won’t break under aggressive practice sessions should consider the Arborea Hi Hat Cymbals Hero Brilliant Finish 14 Inch, which combines copper-plated durability with special car pattern treatment for enhanced sound ductility. At 1.92 pounds, these cymbals resist bending through their thickened alloy construction, making them ideal for transportation between practice spaces. While advanced players might find the tonal characteristics lacking depth, the 4.3-star rating from 226 customers suggests solid value for developing drummers. I’ve noticed beginners appreciate the durability over nuanced sound quality, and honestly, that’s probably the right priority when you’re still learning proper technique and timing fundamentals.

Best For: Beginning drummers who need durable, affordable hi-hat cymbals that can withstand aggressive practice sessions while learning proper technique and timing fundamentals.

Pros:

• Exceptional durability with thickened alloy construction that resists bending and deformation during heavy practice
• Affordable pricing with solid value proposition, earning 4.3 stars from 226 customer reviews
• Enhanced sound ductility through special car pattern treatment and copper-plated finish

Cons:

• Sound quality may lack the depth and nuanced tonal characteristics that advanced players require
• Limited suitability for professional or advanced-level performances due to tonal limitations
• May require modifications like patina techniques to achieve desired sound characteristics for some users

14″ Hi Hat Cymbals Pair for Drum Set

When you’re searching for hi-hat cymbals that deliver professional-grade performance without the premium price tag, the SOUNDACTURE 14″ Hi Hat Cymbals emerge as an exceptional choice for drummers who demand versatility across multiple genres. These cymbals excel in producing bright tones with crisp articulation, while their smooth textures complement both jazz subtleties and rock dynamics seamlessly. You’ll appreciate the impeccable sound clarity, particularly that satisfying chick sound when closed, which enhances your performance across diverse musical styles. Built from high-quality materials, they resist bending and warping under aggressive playing, making them suitable for beginners and seasoned professionals alike seeking reliable, long-lasting performance.

Best For: Drummers of all skill levels who want professional-quality hi-hat cymbals with bright, versatile sound across multiple genres without paying premium prices.

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with bright tones, crisp articulation, and perfect chick sound when closed
• Durable construction that resists bending and warping under aggressive playing
• Premium performance at an affordable price point, making professional sound accessible

Cons:

• Limited to 14″ size which may not suit drummers preferring larger or smaller hi-hat configurations
• Bright sound profile may not appeal to drummers seeking darker, warmer tones
• No specific mention of compatibility with different music production environments or recording quality

Meinl 14″ Hi-Hat Cymbal Pair – Classics Custom Dark (CC14DAH)

Professional musicians who demand cutting-edge German engineering and uncompromising sound quality will find their perfect match in the Meinl 14″ Hi-Hat Cymbal Pair from the Classics Custom Dark series (CC14DAH), which delivers the kind of powerful, dark-toned performance that stands up to high-volume environments without sacrificing musical nuance. You’ll appreciate how the B12 bronze alloy construction, forged at Meinl’s Gutenstetten facility, produces that distinctive sizzling darkness with crisp attack and controlled decay that cuts through distortion-heavy mixes. Whether you’re playing rock, metal, or fusion, these cymbals offer the definition you need when closed and heavy slosh when opened, backed by a lifetime dark finish and two-year warranty.

Best For: Professional drummers playing rock, metal, fusion, or high-energy genres who need powerful hi-hats with dark tones that cut through loud, distorted environments without excessive brightness.

Pros:

• German-engineered B12 bronze construction delivers exceptional durability and consistent dark tone with sizzling overtones
• Versatile sound profile offering crisp definition when closed and heavy slosh when open, suitable for multiple music styles
• Lifetime dark finish and expert craftsmanship from Meinl’s German facility backed by 2-year warranty

Cons:

• Higher price point due to German manufacturing may not fit all budgets
• Dark tone profile may not suit drummers seeking bright, cutting hi-hat sounds
• 14″ size may be limiting for drummers who prefer larger or smaller hi-hat configurations

Zildjian Planet Z 13 Hi Hat Cymbals Pair

The Zildjian Planet Z 13″ Hi Hat Cymbals Pair stands out as an exceptional entry point for drummers who need reliable, versatile cymbals without breaking the bank, offering the legendary Zildjian craftsmanship that’s been refined since 1623 in an affordable package. You’ll discover bright, responsive tones that adapt precisely to your playing dynamics, whether you’re practicing rudiments or performing live gigs. These cymbals deliver impressive versatility across rock, pop, and jazz styles, making them ideal for beginners exploring different musical territories. The USA-made construction guarantees consistent quality, while the accessible price point lets you experience professional-grade Zildjian sound without the premium cost.

Best For: Beginning drummers who want affordable, versatile hi-hat cymbals with professional Zildjian quality for practice and performance across multiple musical styles.

Pros:

• Legendary Zildjian craftsmanship and quality at an entry-level price point
• Bright, responsive sound that adapts well to different playing dynamics and musical styles
• Made in the USA with consistent construction and reliable performance

Cons:

• May lack the complexity and nuance of higher-end Zildjian cymbal lines
• Sound characteristics might be too basic for advanced or professional drummers
• Limited to 13″ size which may not suit all musical applications or preferences

Avedis Zildjian Company 13 inch I Series Hi-hat Cymbals

Drummers seeking an affordable entry point into Zildjian’s legendary cymbal craftsmanship will find their ideal match in the 13-inch I Series Hi-hats, which deliver surprisingly robust tonal qualities despite their budget-friendly positioning in the company’s extensive lineup. These cymbals feature traditional B8 bronze construction, providing that classic bright attack you’d expect from Zildjian, though admittedly without the complex overtones of their premium lines. At 3.49 pounds for the pair, they offer substantial weight that translates to solid stick response and decent sustain for practice sessions or smaller venues where volume control matters more than nuanced expression.

Best For: Beginning to intermediate drummers who want authentic Zildjian quality at an affordable price point for practice sessions, smaller venues, or as a backup set.

Pros:

• Traditional B8 bronze construction delivers classic Zildjian bright attack and sound character
• Budget-friendly entry point into professional cymbal brand without sacrificing basic quality
• Substantial 3.49-pound weight provides solid stick response and decent sustain for practice use

Cons:

• Lacks the complex overtones and nuanced expression found in Zildjian’s premium cymbal lines
• Limited dynamic range may not satisfy advanced players seeking sophisticated tonal variations
• Better suited for smaller venues rather than larger performance spaces requiring greater projection

Factors to Consider When Choosing Hi Hat Cymbals

When I’m selecting hi-hat cymbals, I consider five critical factors that determine whether these cymbals will complement my drumming style and musical objectives. Sound quality characteristics, including tonal clarity and sustain, work alongside material composition and construction methods to shape the cymbal’s fundamental voice, while size and weight specifications directly influence volume projection and stick response. I’ve learned that balancing price considerations with musical genre compatibility guarantees I’m making an investment that serves both my budget constraints and the specific sonic requirements of my preferred playing styles.

Sound Quality Characteristics

Sound quality represents the most critical factor I consider when evaluating hi-hat cymbals, as it directly impacts how your playing translates to the audience and shapes your overall drumming experience. I focus on brightness and articulation first, since these characteristics determine whether your hi-hats cut through dense mixes or get buried beneath other instruments. The thickness and surface treatment create the foundational tone, where properly executed hammering techniques eliminate harsh overtones that can make cymbals sound cheap or amateurish. I’ve found that hammered edge designs produce livelier chick sounds while preventing problematic air lock issues. Bronze construction offers superior projection and durability compared to brass alternatives, though it commands higher prices for the enhanced clarity and longevity you’ll experience.

Material and Construction

Although sound quality captures the spotlight in most cymbal discussions, I’ve learned that material composition and construction methods form the foundation that determines whether hi-hats deliver professional performance or disappoint under pressure. Brass hi-hats offer bright, focused tones that work well for beginners, though they don’t match the warmth and resonance I get from bronze alloys like MS63 and B8. Construction quality matters more than I initially realized—precision forming and finishing determine whether cymbals withstand aggressive playing without bending or cracking. Thickness variations, combined with surface treatments like hammering and lathing, directly affect attack, sustain, and overtones. I’ve found that weight configurations, such as medium tops with heavy bottoms, provide versatile stick definition and chick sounds across different genres.

Size and Weight

Size and weight selection often makes the difference between hi-hats that complement your playing style and cymbals that fight against your musical intentions, particularly since these fundamental characteristics determine how much projection, stick definition, and responsiveness you’ll experience during performance. I’ve found that 13″ and 14″ diameters represent the sweet spot for most drummers, with larger sizes offering increased projection and fuller articulation. Weight categories—light, medium, and heavy—directly affect your hi-hats’ behavior, where heavier cymbals deliver that crisp, defined “chick” sound I prefer for rock applications, while lighter options provide delicate nuance perfect for jazz contexts. Thicker construction enhances durability under aggressive playing, though I’ll admit this sometimes sacrifices the subtle responsiveness that makes lighter hi-hats so expressive.

Price and Budget

Once you’ve identified the ideal size and weight characteristics for your playing style, budget considerations become your next major decision point, since hi-hat prices span an enormous range from basic entry-level pairs under $100 to premium professional models that can easily exceed $500. I’ve learned that entry-level options around $100 or less can serve beginners well, while professional-grade cymbals typically start at $200 and climb from there. Here’s what I consider vital: durability often justifies spending slightly more upfront, as cheaper cymbals may crack sooner and require replacement. Most reputable brands offer one to two-year warranties, which I view as essential protection for any investment. I always compare sound quality against price to avoid overpaying for mediocre options.

Musical Genre Compatibility

Your musical genre choice fundamentally shapes which hi-hat characteristics will serve your playing best, as different styles demand distinctly different sonic qualities that can make or break your drum sound. I’ve learned that rock demands brighter, cutting hi-hats with medium to heavy weights for projection, while jazz thrives on smaller, lighter cymbals that produce warmer tones without harsh overtones. Metal requires thick, robust cymbals that handle aggressive playing while maintaining powerful definition and sustain. For funk and pop, I prefer crisp articulation with quick decay to enhance rhythmical precision. Understanding closed versus open hi-hat interplay becomes essential, as each genre leverages these tonal ranges differently to create signature grooves.

On a final note

I’ve tested countless hi-hats over the years, and these ten models represent the sweet spot between quality and affordability. Whether you’re jamming in your garage or recording your next album, there’s something here that’ll make your beats shine. Don’t overthink it—pick the pair that matches your budget and style, then get back to making music that matters.