Best Metal Ride Cymbals of 2026

Hayden Bryant Avatar
Hayden Bryant
Last Updated: 12 Feb 2026

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Metal ride cymbals are an excellent addition to any drummer's kit. These cymbals are typically made from a high-quality metal alloy, producing a bright and cutting sound that can easily cut through the mix. They are perfect for creating a crisp and clear ride pattern, as well as for accenting other parts of a song. With their durable construction, metal ride cymbals are built to last, making them a great investment for any serious drummer. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, metal ride cymbals are a must-have for any drummer looking to take their sound to the next level.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal Cover #TOP 1
Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal Cover #TOP 2
Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Meinl Classics Custom Dark 20 inch Ride Cymbal Cover #TOP 3
Meinl Classics Custom Dark 20 inch Ride Cymbal
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Metal Ride Cymbals

#TOP 1

Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal

CC20EMR-B
Brilliant Finish
20 inch
Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal Cover
Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal 20 inch (Video) for Drum Set (50,80cm) B12 Bronze, Brilliant Finish, Made in Germany (CC20EMR-B)

The Meinl Extreme Metal Ride is designed for powerful performances, making it ideal for drummers who play in loud environments. Its heavyweight construction, large bell, and extra thickness allow you to cut through dense mixes with ease. The brilliant finish enhances the cymbal's shimmering sound, providing a clear and vibrant tone. Additionally, the extra deep hammering darkens the sound, balancing the brightness and giving you a versatile option for various musical styles.

What We Like
Powerful sound projection
Brilliant finish enhances aesthetics
Deep hammering for balanced tone
Durable B12 bronze alloy
#TOP 2

Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal

CC18EMBBR-B
Brilliant Finish
18 inch
Meinl Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride Cymbal Cover
Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Extreme Metal Big Bell Ride Cymbal 18 inch (Video) for Drum Set (45,72cm) B12 Bronze, Brilliant Finish, Made in Germany (CC18EMBBR-B)

The Meinl Extreme Metal Ride offers an impressive sound tailored for intense drumming. Its large bell ensures clarity, making it perfect for blast beats and powerful performances. The brilliant finish and fully lathed surfaces enhance the cymbal's shimmering cut, allowing you to stand out in any mix. Additionally, the extra deep hammering darkens the tonality, balancing the brightness and providing a rich sound experience. This cymbal is designed for those who want to make a statement while playing.

What We Like
Powerful, in-your-face sound
Stunning, mirror-like finish
Great for intense drumming
Durable, long-lasting quality
#TOP 3

Meinl Classics Custom Dark 20 inch Ride Cymbal

CC20DAR
Dark Finish
20 inch
Meinl Classics Custom Dark 20 inch Ride Cymbal Cover
Meinl Cymbals Classics Custom Dark Ride Cymbal 20 inch (Video) for Drum Set (50,80cm) B12 Bronze, Dark Finish, Made in Germany (CC20DAR)

The Meinl Dark Ride Cymbal is designed for rock and heavy metal enthusiasts. It features a rich ping and excellent definition, ensuring your sound cuts through the mix. The dark finish and extra hammering provide a unique tonal complexity that enhances your playing. Additionally, the B12 Bronze Alloy construction delivers a powerful and consistent sound, perfect for those loud performances. You’ll find that this cymbal offers the drive needed for high-energy styles, making it an excellent choice for any drummer.

What We Like
Excellent sound definition
Unique dark finish
Powerful and consistent sound
Designed for heavy styles
#TOP 4

Meinl HCS 20 Inch Ride Cymbal for Beginners

HCS20R
Traditional Finish
20 inch
Meinl HCS 20 Inch Ride Cymbal for Beginners Cover
Meinl Cymbals HCS Ride Cymbal 20 inch (Video) for Drum Set (50,80cm) Traditional Finish Brass, Made in Germany (HCS20R)

The Meinl HCS Ride Cymbal offers traditional ride sounds with a defined ping, making it suitable for various genres, from rock to jazz. Designed specifically for beginners and students, this cymbal is made from durable brass alloy, ensuring it withstands the demands of drumming while maintaining its tone. Additionally, it is produced in Germany using green energy, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. With a full range of sounds available, you can explore different options usually found in professional setups, making this cymbal a versatile choice for any aspiring drummer.

What We Like
Bright, defined sound
Durable for beginners
Environmentally friendly production
Variety of sound options
#TOP 5

Zildjian 20" Z Custom Ride Cymbal

Z40120
Bronze
Zildjian 20" Z Custom Ride Cymbal Cover
Zildjian 20" Z Custom Ride Cymbal - Z40120

Features
Full-Bodied With Maximum Articulation
Easily Projects Over Loud On-Stage Mixes
Heaviest Weight Ride Cymbals In The Zildjian Catalog
Designed For Hard-Hitting Metal And Hard Rock Drummers
#TOP 6

Zildjian 21" Z Custom Mega Bell Ride Cymbal

Z40121
Traditional
21" Mega Bell
Zildjian 21" Z Custom Mega Bell Ride Cymbal Cover
Zildjian 21" Z Custom Mega Bell Ride Cymbal - Z40121

The Zildjian Mega Bell Ride Cymbal is designed for the hard-hitting metal and hard rock drummer. Its large ride cymbal bell is the biggest in the Zildjian catalog, ensuring you'll stand out in any performance. With the ‘Mega bell’ feature, you can cut through even the loudest on-stage mixes, providing clarity and power to your sound. This cymbal is loud and expressive, allowing you to convey emotion and intensity in your playing. Its heavy-weight design adds durability, making it perfect for those vigorous drumming sessions.

What We Like
Powerful sound projection
Durable heavy-weight design
Ideal for metal and rock
Large bell for clarity
Cuts through loud mixes

Meinl HCS 18 Inch Crash-Ride Cymbal

HCS18CR
Traditional Finish
18 inch
Meinl HCS 18 Inch Crash-Ride Cymbal Cover
Meinl Cymbals HCS Crash-Ride Cymbal 18 inch (Video) for Drum Set (45,72cm) Traditional Finish Brass, Made in Germany (HCS18CR)

The Meinl HCS Crash-Ride is the ideal choice for beginner and student drummers. It offers a unique blend of crash and ride capabilities, allowing you to achieve a clean ping sound or crash effects with ease. Made from a durable brass alloy, it withstands the impact of drumsticks while maintaining its tone. Additionally, this cymbal is manufactured in Germany using green energy, ensuring an environmentally friendly production process. With a full range of sounds available, you can explore various musical styles effortlessly.

What We Like
Versatile crash and ride functionality
Durable brass alloy construction
Environmentally friendly production
Wide range of sound options
Suitable for beginners and students
#TOP 8

Zildjian Planet Z Series 18" Crash Ride Cymbal

Zildjian ZP18CR
New 2020
Zildjian Planet Z Series 18" Crash Ride Cymbal Cover
Zildjian ZP18CR Planet Z Series - Ride Cymbal - 18"

The Zildjian Planet Z Crash Ride is part of the redesigned 2020 Planet Z range, ideal for beginners and intermediate drummers looking to enter the world of Zildjian cymbals. Made proudly in the USA from brass, this cymbal delivers bright, cutting tones that make it easier for you to achieve a clear, focused sound. The Planet Z series offers excellent sound quality at an affordable price, giving you great value. This 18-inch Crash Ride is extremely versatile, perfect for ride patterns and providing an impressive crash sound when needed.

What We Like
Bright, cutting tones
Made in the USA
Great for beginners
Versatile crash and ride
Affordable entry-level quality
#TOP 9

Sabian 22-Inch Paragon Ride Cymbal - Brilliant Finish

NP2214B
Bronze
-inch
Sabian 22-Inch Paragon Ride Cymbal - Brilliant Finish Cover
Sabian NP2214B 22-Inch Paragon Ride Cymbal - Brilliant Finish

The Sabian Paragon Ride Cymbal is a 22-inch model with a brilliant finish, designed for musicians seeking a robust sound. Its extra-heavy weight of over 8 lbs. ensures solid stick definition, making it ideal for clear, cutting tones. Crafted from B20 metal, this cymbal produces a bright sound that enhances your performance. The solid hand-hammered bell adds a balanced blend of tone, giving you versatility across various musical styles.

What We Like
Robust sound quality
Clear stick definition
Bright sound
Extra heavy for stability
Hand hammered for balance
#TOP 10

Sabian HHX 22" Dark Complex Thin Ride

12210XCN
Brass
Sabian HHX 22" Dark Complex Thin Ride Cover
Sabian HHX 22" Complex Thin Ride Cymbal (12210XCN)

The Sabian HHX Thin Ride is a modern ride cymbal designed for musicians seeking a dark sound. Crafted from B20 metal, it offers excellent durability and tonal quality. Its thin weight allows for quick response and versatility, making it ideal for various playing styles. Whether you're performing in a band or practising at home, this cymbal can enhance your sound with its rich character and responsiveness, elevating your overall musical experience.

What We Like
Dark sound quality
Thin for quick response
Durable B20 metal
Modern style
Buying Guide Image
Editor's Notes

During our metal ride cymbal research, we found 47 metal ride cymbal products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 9,067 customer reviews through our big data system to write the metal ride cymbals list. We found that most customers choose metal ride cymbals with an average price of £207.27.

The metal ride cymbals are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of metal ride cymbals, including Meinl Cymbals, Meinl Percussion, Zildjian, Sabian.

Written by
Hayden Bryant Avatar

Hayden was born in Liverpool, and he never left his hometown until university. In his freshman year at the University of Manchester, Hayden was the group leader of a popular music group. Hayden is responsible for the popularity of his music, and this is because of his natural ability to play with keys and strings. He graduated with BFA in 2016 and returned in 2018 as a lecturing staff in the School of Music.