Best Crash Cymbals for YOUR 10 Favorite Drumming Style

Musicians often underestimate the impact of their cymbals on their performance until they find the right pair. This crash cymbal roundup examines some of the most impactful options available, helping you make an informed choice that enhances both the quality and longevity of your playing experience.

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Reviews

Stagg EX-CM19B Crash Cymbal

These European-designed bronze cymbals deliver big-time performance at an amazing value. The 92/8 copper-tin alloy construction gives the 19-inch medium crash a bright, responsive personality that cuts through any mix.

2BOX DrumIt Speedlight 12" Crash Cymbal

This 12" electronic drum cymbal lets you play three different sounds - the bright middle section, the warm edges, and the softest part that gives you that cymbal choke sound. It's a fun way to add some variety to your electronic drumming. So far, users seem excited about how it changes their drumming experience.

Zildjian A20517 Custom Crash Cymbal

Crafted from centuries-old Zildjian alloy in a labor-intensive cast bronze process, the 19" Custom Crash Brilliant cymbal delivers the studio sound that's made drummers around the world reach for it. The thin to medium weight construction and brilliant finish produce a quick-sounding, balanced tone that sits well in any mix, with those signature warm undertones that make Zildjians so distinctive. The included ZKEY2 multi-tool key makes it a practical addition to any drummer's collection, regardless of skill level.

Hokarua 50-Piece Portable Jazz Drum Cymbal Set

These small jazz cymbals may be compact at just 3.55 inches in diameter, but they pack a surprising amount of versatility into their lightweight design. Made from stainless iron, these practice cymbals stand up to regular play without showing wear and tear. Their silver finish adds a touch of professional polish to your setup while keeping the weight down to a mere 0.24 pounds.

16" Brass Alloy Crash Ride Hi-Hat Cymbal

This beautifully crafted 16-inch brass alloy cymbal brings out the best in your playing, with its bright sound and responsive feel. The golden-hued cymbal weighs just over 21 ounces, striking a perfect balance between durability and playability. Whether you're a beginner exploring the fundamentals or an experienced player pushing your limits, this versatile cymbal will become an essential part of your drum set.

Zildjian A0223 16" Thin Crash Cymbal

These compact 16" cymbals have become a staple in drum kits worldwide thanks to Zildjian's time-honored alloy and crafting techniques that date back 380 years. The thin crash design combines bright, focused clarity with responsive playability, making it adaptable for both beginners and professionals alike. The traditional finish adds a classic touch to this versatile cymbal that excels in various musical settings.

Zildjian A20516 18" Custom Crash Cymbal

Crafted from Zildjian's proprietary alloy, this 18" crash cymbal delivers a balanced sound with a warm undertone and quick attack. The medium bell size and brilliant finish complement both modern and traditional playing styles, while the long sustain keeps your rhythms clear and defined. The included multi-tool drum key makes quick work of cymbal maintenance.

Paiste 20" Formula 602 Thin Crash Cymbal

When you need a crash cymbal that's both subtle and powerful, the 20" Paiste Formula 602 Thin Crash delivers in spades. At just 1906 grams, this cymbal feels incredibly light for its size, offering a silvery, breathy sound that cuts through mixes without overwhelming them. The thin construction gives it a surprisingly complex character, with a soft shimmer that adds depth to every note. Whether you're playing jazz, rock, or anything in between, this cymbal finds a perfect balance between volume and tone that keeps it versatile for all your musical needs.

Paiste Giant Beat Giant Cymbal Box

These Swiss-made Giant Beat cymbals bring a massive presence to any setup with their expertly crafted 15", 18", 20", and 24" sizes. The included free 18" Thin cymbal adds serious value to this already impressive collection. While they sound fantastic, the reviewer chose to part with their set after six months of home playing, indicating their high standards. The premium bag keeps everything protected and organized.

EFNOTE EFD-C14 14" Crash Cymbal

This 14" crash cymbal combines sleek grey aesthetics with responsive 3-zones that deliver precise bow, edge, and cup tones. Its 360° sensing technology and built-in choke capability give you extensive sound control, making it adaptable for various musical styles. The lightweight design makes it easy to use with any drum setup while remaining surprisingly durable for its price point.

Buyer's Guide

Crash cymbals are among the most versatile and noticeable components of a drum kit, providing powerful accents and cutting through the mix. Understanding what to look for in a crash cymbal is crucial for finding the right sound and feel for your playing style.

Size and Shape Considerations

The shape and size of a crash cymbal directly influence its sound and applications. Common sizes range from 14 to 22 inches in diameter, with larger cymbals offering more volume and sustain while smaller ones provide quicker attacks and higher pitches. Common shapes include traditional round boss, bellless, and mounted bell designs, each affecting the cymbal's projection and tonal characteristics.

Material and Construction

Crash cymbals are typically made from bronze alloys, with variations in bell metal composition creating distinct sounds. Popular alloys include B20 (18% tin, 82% copper) and A20 (20% tin, 80% copper), with higher tin content resulting in brighter, more metallic tones. The construction method, whether hand-hammered or spun, also impacts the cymbal's texture and resonance.

Tone and Character

The ideal crash cymbal tone depends on your musical style and the role of the cymbal in your setup. Clean, bright crashes are ideal for pop and rock, while darker, more complex tones work better for jazz and fusion. Listen for balanced attack, controlled overtones, and consistent volume across the cymbal's surface. The rim and bell's design affects the cymbal's projection and focus.

Application and Placement

Understanding where to place your crash cymbal can significantly impact its sound and function. Traditional placement is on the left side of the drummer, closest to the audience. However, some setup alternatives include the right side for improved control or higher up for increased projection. Experimenting with different positions helps achieve the desired attack and balance within your kit.

FAQ

What is a crash cymbal?

A crash cymbal is a type of cymbal used in percussion ensembles, particularly in jazz, classical, and concert bands. These cymbals produce a loud, sharp sound that cuts through the mix and adds dynamic contrast to musical pieces.

Crash cymbals typically feature a distinct bell shape at their center, with a series of concentric rings creating a distinctive visual pattern. The surface texture and thickness variations across the cymbal affect its tonal characteristics and sustain.

How are crash cymbals made?

Crash cymbals are crafted from a specialized aluminum alloy, which is poured into a mold. After cooling and removal from the mold, the cymbal undergoes multiple processes including hand hammering to shape the bell and texture the surface.

The cymbal then receives its signature hammered pattern, and finally, it's polished to reveal its distinctive markings and luster. This manual craftsmanship contributes significantly to the unique character of each cymbal.

What are the main crash cymbal categories?

The primary categories of crash cymbals are distinguished by their size, weight, and intended use. Common types include medium to-heavy crashes (18-22 inches) for general ensemble use, and smaller crashes (14-16 inches) for more precise or rapid applications.

Some manufacturers also offer bright crash variants with thinner plates for increased projection, while others produce dark crashes with thicker plates for richer, more sustained tones.

What size crash cymbal should I choose?

The appropriate crash cymbal size depends on your playing style and musical requirements. Larger crashes (20-22 inches) offer more volume and tone for ensemble playing, while smaller crashes (18 inches and below) are more maneuverable for fast passages.

Consider your height and reach when selecting a size - shorter performers may prefer smaller crashes to maintain proper playing position. Consulting with a professional or experienced player can also help determine the ideal size for your technique.

How do I care for my crash cymbals?

To maintain your cymbals' tone and longevity, store them in a dry environment and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. Use protective covers when not in use to prevent dust accumulation.

After playing, clean the cymbals with a soft cloth to remove debris and fingerprints. Regular maintenance includes checking for wear and scratches, as these can affect the cymbal's sound quality.

What are the most durable crash cymbal brands?

Several brands consistently produce durable crash cymbals. Ride Religion and Sabian are known for their high-quality construction and consistent tonal characteristics across their models.

Brumes and Bosphorus are also popular choices among professional musicians, offering durable construction and a wide range of tonal options. These brands often incorporate premium materials and manufacturing techniques for increased longevity.

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