Discover the Top Crash Cymbals & Percussion Gems for 2025!

Crash cymbals are an essential part of any drummer's kit. They provide a sharp, explosive sound that punctuates the rhythm of a song and adds excitement to a performance. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, choosing the right crash cymbals can make a big difference in the quality of your sound.

When it comes to selecting the best crash cymbals, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the size of the cymbal. Crash cymbals come in a range of sizes, from 14 inches to 22 inches or more. The size you choose will depend on your personal preference and the style of music you play. Larger cymbals tend to have a fuller, louder sound, while smaller cymbals are more focused and precise.

Another important factor to consider is the material of the cymbal. Most crash cymbals are made from bronze, which produces a warm, rich tone. However, different types of bronze, such as B20 and B8, have different sonic properties. Some cymbals are made from other materials, such as stainless steel or titanium, which can produce unique sounds.

We spent hours researching and testing various crash cymbals to identify the best options on the market. In the following sections, we'll share our top picks and provide detailed information on each cymbal's size, material, and sound characteristics. Whether you're a jazz drummer looking for a smooth, mellow sound or a metal drummer searching for explosive crashes, we've got you covered.

Best Crash Cymbals

We have researched and tested various crash cymbals to bring you the best available options. A crash cymbal is an essential part of any drum kit and adds a touch of excitement to your music. The ideal crash cymbal should produce a bright and explosive sound that cuts through the mix without being too harsh or overpowering. After careful consideration, we have compiled a list of the top crash cymbals that meet our criteria for sound quality, durability, and value for money. Check out our recommendations below and find the perfect crash cymbal for your drumming needs.

Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Crash Cymbal (ZP16C) 16'' Crash Cymbal Set

If you're a beginner looking for a budget-friendly crash cymbal, the Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Crash Cymbal (ZP16C) 16'' Crash Cymbal Set is worth considering.

Pros

The Planet Z range offers superior sound quality at an entry-level price.
The ZP16C is a 16-inch crash that delivers a brilliant and cutting accent.
Redesigned for 2020, the NEW Planet Z range of cymbals are a great introduction for beginners and intermediate players to the Zildjian world of cymbals.

Cons

They are not very loud for playing grunge rock, except for the ride. For the cost, better sound quality could be expected.

In our experience, the Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Crash Cymbal (ZP16C) 16'' Crash Cymbal Set is a decent option for beginners who are just starting to explore their sound. The cymbal offers bright cutting tones with more control and a focused sound, making it suitable for any style of music.

While the cymbals are not very loud for playing grunge rock, they still deliver a brilliant and cutting accent. However, some users have reported that the cymbals are not suitable for all styles of music. Additionally, the cymbals may not be as durable as higher-end models.

Overall, if you're looking for a budget-friendly crash cymbal, the Avedis Zildjian Company Planet Z Crash Cymbal (ZP16C) 16'' Crash Cymbal Set is a decent option to consider.

Arborea Cymbal Crash Cymbal Hero Brilliant Finish Bright Sound 16 inch Drum Cymbal For Practice (16"Crash）

If you're looking for a high-quality crash cymbal that's perfect for beginners, the Arborea Cymbal Crash Cymbal Hero Brilliant Finish Bright Sound 16 inch Drum Cymbal For Practice (16"Crash） is a great option.

Pros

Made of high-quality alloy materials with a copper-plated surface
Treated with a car pattern to increase the ductility of the sound
16" crash cymbal is treated with a special process to make it more resistant to beating

Cons

May not be suitable for professional drummers

We were impressed with the Arborea Cymbal Crash Cymbal Hero Brilliant Finish Bright Sound 16 inch Drum Cymbal For Practice (16"Crash）. The high-quality alloy materials and copper-plated surface give it a sleek, professional look, while the car pattern treatment on the surface helps to increase the ductility of the sound. We found that the cymbal produced a bright, crisp sound that was perfect for practicing and playing in a variety of scenarios.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cymbal may not be suitable for professional drummers or those who need a more complex sound. Some users have reported issues with the cymbal cracking or breaking over time, so it's important to take good care of it and handle it with care. Additionally, you may need to make some adjustments to get the perfect sound, depending on your individual playing style and preferences.

Overall, we think the Arborea Cymbal Crash Cymbal Hero Brilliant Finish Bright Sound 16 inch Drum Cymbal For Practice (16"Crash） is a great option for beginners or those who are looking for a high-quality cymbal at an affordable price. If you're in the market for a crash cymbal, we definitely recommend checking this one out.

Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal (ILH14Cd1) 14'' Crash I Family - New Version

Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal

If you're looking for a crash cymbal that produces a bright and fast sound, the Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal is a great choice. We recommend it for anyone who wants to add an inspiring and expressive sound to their playing.

Pros

Thinner weights that deliver washier and more emotive sounds
Taking its name from Ilham – the Turkish word for inspiration
The i Family is an inspiring line of cymbals in both name and design

Cons

May not be suitable for players who prefer heavier cymbals

The Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal is a medium-thin weight cymbal that produces a bright and fast sound. It's smaller in size, making it a great add-on crash to any set-up. The cymbal takes its name from Ilham, the Turkish word for inspiration, and is part of the I Family collection of expressive sounds designed to bring your playing to the next level.

One of the standout features of the Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal is its thinner weights that deliver washier and more emotive sounds. This makes it a great choice for players who want to add a touch of expressiveness to their playing. Additionally, the cymbal's design is inspired by the Turkish word for inspiration, which adds a level of creativity to your playing.

However, some players may find the cymbal too washy for their liking. It may not be suitable for players who prefer heavier cymbals, or those who want a more defined sound. Additionally, the 16 inch version of the cymbal may break easily if hit too hard.

Overall, the Zildjian 14 inch I Series Crash Cymbal is a great choice for anyone who wants to add an inspiring and expressive sound to their playing. Its thinner weights and unique design make it a standout choice for any musical application.

Meinl Percussion HCS 14" Crash Cymbal

If you're looking for a high-quality cymbal that won't break the bank, the Meinl Percussion HCS 14" Crash Cymbal is a great option. It's perfect for beginner and intermediate drummers who want to upgrade from their stock cymbals to something that sounds and feels more professional.

Pros

The HCS series is designed to offer all the cymbal types and sizes normally found in professional lines to beginners, making it a great option for anyone exploring their sound.
Made in Germany with MS63 brass alloy, this cymbal provides a clean, bright, and crisp tone that's perfect for any style of music.
The 14" size is the perfect middle ground between a splash and a larger cymbal, making it a versatile addition to any drum kit.

Cons

The cymbal's sustain is shorter than some other models, which may not be ideal for drummers who prefer longer crashes.
The sound can be a bit bright and piercing for some drummers, especially those who play heavier music.
While the Meinl Percussion HCS 14" Crash Cymbal is a great option for beginner and intermediate drummers, more advanced players may prefer a higher-end cymbal with more complex overtones.

Overall, we highly recommend the Meinl Percussion HCS 14" Crash Cymbal for anyone looking to upgrade their stock cymbals to something more professional. With its clean, bright tone and versatile size, it's a great addition to any drum kit.

Sabian SBr Crash Cymbal

We highly recommend the Sabian SBr Crash Cymbal for beginner drummers who are looking for a budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Pros

The hammered and lathed surface produces a tightly focused sound that is perfect for accenting.
The smartly priced SBr Brass is in a class of its own, making it a great option for those who are just starting out.
The Sabian One-Year Warranty protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

Cons

The sound may not be suitable for more advanced drummers who are looking for a more complex sound.

The Sabian SBr Crash Cymbal is a great option for beginner drummers looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option. The hammered and lathed surface produces a tightly focused sound perfect for accenting, and the smartly priced SBr Brass is in a class of its own. While the cymbal's sound is not as full as higher-end models, the Sabian One-Year Warranty protects your investment and gives you peace of mind.

If you're starting and need a cymbal to get the job done without breaking the bank, the Sabian SBr Crash Cymbal is an excellent choice. It may not have the complexity of sound that more advanced drummers are looking for, but it's a solid option for those just starting out.

Buying Guide

When buying crash cymbals, several factors must be considered to ensure that you get the best product for your needs. Here are some key features to look for when choosing the perfect crash cymbal:

Size

The cymbal's size is an important consideration when choosing a crash cymbal. Larger cymbals tend to have a louder and more sustained sound, while smaller cymbals have a shorter and more focused sound. Consider the cymbal's size in relation to the rest of your drum set and the type of music you will be playing.

Material

The material of the cymbal can greatly affect its sound. Bronze is the most common material used for cymbals and is known for its bright and shimmering sound. However, cymbals are also made from other materials such as brass and nickel silver. Each material has its own unique sound characteristics, so it's important to choose a material that complements your playing style and the music you'll be playing.

Weight

The weight of the cymbal can also affect its sound. Lighter cymbals tend to have a faster response and a brighter sound, while heavier cymbals have a slower response and a darker sound. Consider the weight of the cymbal in relation to your playing style and the type of music you'll be playing.

Finish

The finish of the cymbal can affect its appearance and durability. Most cymbals have a traditional finish, which is shiny and reflective. However, there are also cymbals with a brilliant finish, which is brighter and more reflective, and a natural finish, which is dull and unpolished. Consider the cymbal's finish to your personal preferences and the durability required for your playing style.

Price

As with any purchase, price is important when choosing a crash cymbal. While it's tempting to go for the cheapest option, it's important to remember that quality cymbals can be expensive. Consider your budget and choose the best cymbal you can afford within that budget.

In summary, when choosing a crash cymbal, consider the size, material, weight, finish, and price to ensure you get the best product for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different types of cymbals?

There are several types of cymbals, including crash, ride, hi-hat, splash, and China cymbals. Each type of cymbal is designed to produce a unique sound and is used differently.

What is the best brand for cymbals?

There is no one "best" brand for cymbals, as different brands offer different features and qualities. Some popular brands include Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste. Choosing a brand that fits your needs and preferences is important.

What is the difference between a crash cymbal and a ride cymbal?

A crash cymbal is generally thinner and produces a shorter, more explosive sound when struck. A ride cymbal is thicker and produces a longer sustain, making it ideal for keeping a steady rhythm. While both types of cymbals can be used for accents, they are typically used in different ways.

Is it necessary to use more than one crash cymbal?

No, it is not necessary to use more than one crash cymbal. However, using multiple cymbals can provide a wider range of sounds and allow for more dynamic playing.

What is the best crash cymbal for worship music?

The best crash cymbal for worship music will depend on personal preference and the specific style of music being played. Some popular options include the Zildjian A Custom Crash, Sabian AAX X-Plosion Crash, and Meinl Byzance Extra Dry Dual Crash.

How does the sound of a splash cymbal compare to a crash cymbal?

A splash cymbal produces a shorter, more focused sound than a crash cymbal. While both types of cymbals can be used for accents, splash cymbals are typically used for more subtle accents or effects.