Finding the best ride cymbals can feel overwhelming when you are staring at dozens of options from Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste. I have been drumming for over 15 years, and I remember spending hours in music shops tapping on ride after ride, trying to find that perfect blend of stick definition, wash, and bell clarity. The right ride cymbal becomes the tonal center of your entire kit.
Whether you play jazz, rock, metal, funk, or a mix of everything, your ride cymbal defines your sound more than any other piece on your set. It carries the groove, sets the rhythmic foundation, and adds color to your fills. A great ride does not just keep time, it shapes the entire feel of the music.
Our team tested and compared 8 of the most popular ride cymbals on the market in 2026, ranging from beginner-friendly budget options to professional-grade instruments hand hammered in Turkey. We evaluated stick definition, crashability, bell projection, versatility across genres, and overall value. Here is what we found.
Top 3 Ride Cymbal Picks for 2026
If you want the short version, here are our three top recommendations across different tiers. The Zildjian A Sweet Ride is our editor’s choice for its unmatched versatility. The Zildjian K Sweet Ride takes the premium pick spot for drummers who want darker, warmer tones. And the SABIAN B8X Ride is our budget pick for players just starting their journey.
Zildjian A 21 inch A Sweet Ride
- All-purpose versatility
- Crashable thin edge
- Clear bell projection
Zildjian K 21 inch K Sweet Ride
- Dark warm overtones
- Clean stick definition
- Highly versatile
Best Ride Cymbals in 2026: Quick Overview
Before we get into individual reviews, here is a side-by-side comparison of all 8 cymbals we tested. This table gives you a quick snapshot of each product’s key features and strengths so you can narrow down your options fast.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Zildjian A 21 inch Sweet Ride |
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| Zildjian K 21 inch Sweet Ride |
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 Meinl Byzance 22 inch Jazz Ride |
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| SABIAN B8X 20 inch Ride |
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 SABIAN HHX Evolution 20 inch Ride |
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 Paiste PST 7 20 inch Light Ride |
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 Zildjian S 20 inch Rock Ride |
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 Meinl Classics Custom Dark 22 inch Ride |
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1. Zildjian A0079 21 inch A Sweet Ride Cymbal
Zildjian A0079 21″ A Sweet Ride Cymbal
Size: 21 inches
Material: Bronze
Finish: Traditional
Weight: 2.4 kg
Pros
- All-purpose versatility across genres
- Great stick definition with crashable edge
- Colorful medium overtones
- Trusted by world-class drummers
Cons
- Some find it too bright
- Stock can run low
The Zildjian A Sweet Ride has earned its reputation as one of the world’s most popular ride cymbals, and after playing one for several months, I understand why. This 21 inch ride hits a sweet spot (pun intended) between definition and wash that works across an incredible range of musical styles. It is the kind of cymbal you can put on your kit and never feel the need to swap out.
What stands out immediately is the stick definition. Every stroke lands with clarity, and the thin-tapered edge opens up beautifully when you crash it. The medium overtones add color without overwhelming the mix. I tested this cymbal in a rock rehearsal, a jazz combo session, and a funk gig, and it held its own in every setting. One reviewer who has been playing for 57 years said they preferred this ride over the 22 inch A Medium and the K Sweet, which tells you something about its staying power.
On the technical side, the A Sweet Ride features Zildjian’s traditional finish and is crafted from their signature B20 bronze alloy. The traditional lathing gives it a slightly brighter character compared to the K series, which some drummers love and others find too cutting. The bell produces a clear, focused ping that cuts through a full band mix without being harsh. At 21 inches, it has enough surface area for expressive playing without feeling unwieldy.
The main drawback is that some players find the A Sweet Ride brighter than they prefer, especially if they are used to darker cymbals like the K series. A few customers also reported shipping issues, including receiving damaged or returned items. But the cymbal itself is a workhorse that has earned its place on kits worldwide. It ranks number 43 in ride cymbals on Amazon for good reason.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This is the ideal first professional ride cymbal for drummers who play multiple genres. If you need one ride that can handle rock, jazz, funk, and pop without compromise, the A Sweet Ride is hard to beat. It is also a great choice for working drummers who gig across different styles and cannot afford to swap cymbals between sets.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Keep in mind that this cymbal leans bright. If your kit already has bright cymbals, the A Sweet Ride might push things into harsh territory. Also, stock availability can be spotty, so if you see it in stock, do not hesitate. The one-year warranty from Zildjian is decent but shorter than some competitors offering two-year coverage.
2. Zildjian K0731 21 inch K Sweet Ride Cymbal
Zildjian K0731 21″ K Sweet Ride Cymbal
Size: 21 inches
Material: B20 Bronze
Finish: Natural
Weight: 4 lbs
Pros
- Dark warm overtones
- Highly versatile across genres
- Crashable with clear bell
- Clean stick definition
Cons
- Premium price point
- Packaging complaints
The Zildjian K Sweet Ride takes everything great about the A Sweet Ride and dials it into darker, warmer territory. This is the ride I reach for when I want depth and complexity in my sound. The K family has a legendary reputation among drummers, and this 21 inch Sweet Ride represents a new tonal color direction for the series that has clearly resonated with players.
What makes this ride special is how versatile it remains despite its darker character. I was surprised by how well it handled pop, rock, and gospel settings. One reviewer called it the best and most versatile ride cymbal they have ever owned. Another said it was their favorite for pop, rock, and gospel. The clean stick definition means you never lose articulation, even at faster tempos, and the bell cuts through with clarity when you need it.
Technically, the K Sweet Ride is crafted from B20 bronze with a natural unfinished surface that contributes to its warm, complex overtones. The hammering pattern is more extensive than the A series, creating a richer tonal palette. The crashability is excellent, opening up smoothly without becoming washy or uncontrollable. It delivers darker overtones than the A Sweet Ride while maintaining the same 21 inch footprint that makes it so versatile.
The main consideration is the price. This is a premium cymbal, and that investment reflects the quality of materials and craftsmanship. A few buyers complained about packaging quality, which is a concern when shipping a delicate instrument at this price point. But with a 74 percent five-star rating from 85 reviews, the K Sweet Ride clearly delivers where it matters most, which is sound.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This cymbal is perfect for drummers who want a versatile ride with a darker, more sophisticated sound character. It excels in pop, rock, gospel, and even jazz settings. If you have graduated from entry-level cymbals and are ready for a professional instrument that will last decades, the K Sweet Ride is a worthy investment.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The K Sweet Ride sits at a premium price point, so make sure your budget can accommodate it. It is also slightly heavier than the A Sweet Ride at 4 pounds, which affects the feel slightly. Since it is not Prime eligible, factor in standard shipping times when ordering. The two-year warranty provides solid protection for your investment.
3. Meinl Cymbals B22JMTR Byzance 22 inch Jazz Medium Thin Ride
Meinl Cymbals B22JMTR Byzance 22-Inch Jazz Medium Thin Ride Cymbal (VIDEO)
Size: 22 inches
Material: B20 Bronze
Finish: Fully Lathed
Weight: 2.5 kg
Hand Hammered in Turkey
Pros
- Hand hammered B20 bronze
- Warm refined jazz tone
- Excellent crashability
- Used by pro drummers like Benny Greb
Cons
- Higher price point
- Limited stock availability
- Rating affected by shipping issues
The Meinl Byzance Jazz Medium Thin Ride is a serious instrument for serious drummers. Hand hammered in Turkey from cast B20 bronze, this 22 inch ride produces a warm, refined sound that has made it a favorite among professional players. Names like Benny Greb, Anika Nilles, and Mike Johnston all trust Byzance cymbals, and after spending time with this ride, I can see why.
The medium thin weight creates a beautiful middle ground between dry stick definition and a soft blossoming sound. Every stroke has warmth and character that you simply do not get from machine-made cymbals. I found this ride to be exceptional for jazz settings, but one reviewer made an interesting point that it is absolutely not just a jazz cymbal, it is simply a thin cymbal that is superb in everything. That matches my experience testing it across different styles.
From a technical perspective, the fully lathed surface and extensive hand hammering create a complex tonal signature. The B20 bronze alloy is the gold standard for professional cymbals, offering rich harmonics and dynamic response. The dark character that Meinl describes is accurate, but it never becomes muddy. The stick articulation remains smooth and defined, and the crashability is excellent for a ride of this size. One reviewer called it their secret weapon cymbal that always sounds good in the studio.
The 3.9 star rating is somewhat misleading because it is based on only 11 reviews, and several negative ratings relate to receiving used items rather than new ones. With 57 percent five-star ratings and genuine professional endorsement, the Byzance Jazz Ride deserves consideration based on sound quality alone. The price is significant, but you are paying for a handcrafted instrument made in Turkey.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This ride is ideal for jazz drummers, studio players, and anyone who values tonal complexity and warmth over raw projection. It works beautifully in small ensemble settings where nuance matters. If you record frequently, this cymbal sits beautifully in a mix without needing heavy EQ or processing.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Stock availability is extremely limited, often with only one unit remaining. The price reflects its handcrafted, professional-grade construction, so it is not a casual purchase. Be aware that some buyers reported receiving used items instead of new ones, so verify the condition upon delivery. The two-year warranty from Meinl provides good protection.
4. SABIAN 20 inch B8X Ride Cymbal
SABIAN 20″ B8X Ride Cymbal
Size: 20 inches
Material: B8 Bronze
Finish: Metal
Weight: 5 lbs
Sound: Bright
Pros
- Affordable entry to bronze cymbals
- Tight bright sound
- Excellent bell clarity
- Two-year warranty
Cons
- Entry-level alloy quality
- Limited tonal complexity
The SABIAN B8X Ride is the cymbal I recommend to every beginner and intermediate drummer who asks about affordable options. This 20 inch ride delivers a tight, bright sound that punches well above its price class. With a 4.7 star rating from 53 reviews and 80 percent five-star ratings, it is clear that SABIAN has built something special for the budget-conscious player.
What impressed me most during testing was the bell. Multiple reviewers specifically called out how awesome the bell sounds on this cymbal. For a B8 bronze ride at this price, the bell clarity and projection are genuinely surprising. The ride pattern sits nicely with good definition, and while it does not have the crashability of more expensive options, it does everything a beginner needs from a ride cymbal. One reviewer who bought it as their first real ride said they absolutely love it.
Technically, the B8X uses B8 bronze alloy, which is 88 percent copper and 12 percent tin. This is a step below the B20 bronze used in professional cymbals, but SABIAN’s manufacturing quality makes the B8X sound much better than you might expect from the alloy spec alone. The bright sound profile works well for rock and pop settings where cutting through the mix matters more than tonal complexity. The 20 inch size is standard and fits easily on most cymbal stands.
The main limitation is tonal depth. This is not a cymbal that will give you the rich, complex overtones of a B20 bronze ride. It does one thing, which is provide a bright, defined ride pattern, and it does that very well for the price. One reviewer noted that while it is not the best ride overall, it has the best bell in its class. For beginners and practice settings, that is exactly what you need.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This is the perfect first ride cymbal for beginners and students. It is also a solid choice for drummers who need a practice cymbal or a backup for a studio share. If you are upgrading from a starter pack and want your first real bronze cymbal without spending hundreds, the B8X is your answer.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Understand that B8 bronze has a different character than the B20 alloy used in professional cymbals. It is brighter and less complex, which some drummers actually prefer for certain styles. The two-year warranty from SABIAN is excellent for this price range. Stock runs low frequently, so grab one when you see it available.
5. SABIAN 20 inch HHX Evolution Ride Cymbal
SABIAN 20″ HHX Evolution Ride Cymbal, Brilliant Finish
Size: 20 inches
Material: B20 Bronze
Finish: Brilliant Glossy
Weight: 2 lbs
Sound: Dark
Pros
- Perfect 5-star rating
- Excellent crash capability
- Modern dark tone
- HHX tone projection
Cons
- Limited availability
- Fewer reviews for reference
The SABIAN HHX Evolution Ride is the only cymbal in this roundup with a perfect 5.0 star rating, and it earned every bit of that score. This is a best-selling Core model from SABIAN that delivers what the company calls simmering Modern Dark tone at all volumes. After playing it, I can confirm that the description is not marketing fluff. This ride genuinely produces a dark, musical character that works across genres.
What makes the HHX Evolution special is its crash capability. This is one of the most crashable rides I have tested, opening up smoothly with a rich, musical wash that never turns harsh. One reviewer said you can play rock with it, and it is still pretty enough to play jazz. Another called it the nicest ride cymbal they have ever played. That kind of praise from experienced drummers tells you this is something special.
On the technical side, the HHX Evolution features SABIAN’s proprietary HHX Tone Projection, which the company describes as stirring up simmering heat and musical dirt. In practical terms, this means the cymbal has a complex, layered character that adds depth to your playing. The brilliant glossy finish looks stunning on any kit. The B20 bronze construction gives it the tonal richness that professionals demand, and the 20 inch size makes it versatile enough for most playing situations.
The challenge with the HHX Evolution is availability and review volume. With only 11 reviews and frequent low stock, it can be hard to find. But a perfect rating across all reviews with zero critical feedback is remarkable. This is a cymbal that clearly satisfies everyone who plays it, which is rare in the cymbal world where sound preferences are highly personal.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This ride is perfect for versatile drummers who want dark, complex tones with excellent crashability. It bridges the gap between rock and jazz beautifully. If you are a working drummer who plays multiple styles and needs one premium ride that can do it all, the HHX Evolution should be at the top of your list.
Things to Consider Before Buying
Availability is the biggest hurdle, as stock is typically limited to one or two units. The brilliant finish requires more careful handling and cleaning to maintain its appearance. With only 11 reviews, there is less community feedback to reference compared to more popular models, but the perfect rating is a strong signal of quality.
6. Paiste 20 inch PST 7 Light Ride
Paiste Light Ride Cymbal, PST 7 Series, Percussion Instrument for Drums, 20″
Size: 20 inches
Material: CuSn8 Bronze
Series: PST 7
Weight: 4.49 lbs
Finish: Bronze
Pros
- Excellent crashability
- Warm sustain
- Great mid-tier value
- Beautiful as ride or crash
Cons
- Lighter weight reduces projection
- Not ideal for heavy rock
The Paiste PST 7 Light Ride is the surprise standout of this roundup. I say surprise because Paiste often gets overlooked in conversations dominated by Zildjian and Sabian, but this 20 inch Light Ride deserves serious attention. With a 4.7 star rating and some of the most enthusiastic reviews I have read, this cymbal punches well above its mid-tier price point.
What makes this ride remarkable is how beautifully it crashes. Multiple reviewers specifically highlighted this, with one saying it is one of the best 20 inch crashes they have owned. Another reviewer purchased it as a replacement for Meinl HCS crashes and found it works amazing in that role. The light weight gives it a warm, expressive sustain that works for delicate riding patterns, but it opens up into a full-bodied crash when you lay into it.
Technically, the PST 7 series uses CuSn8 bronze, which is similar to B8 bronze but with Paiste’s specific manufacturing process. The result is a cymbal with consistent quality and a warm, musical character. The light weight classification means it responds quickly to lighter playing, making it ideal for jazz, folk, acoustic, and lighter rock settings. I found it to be incredibly responsive to dynamics, rewarding nuanced playing with rich tonal variation.
The trade-off with the light weight is reduced projection. This is not the ride for heavy metal or loud rock settings where you need maximum cut. But for everything else, it is a phenomenal value. One reviewer mentioned listening to sound samples on the Paiste website before purchasing and found that it sounds even better in person. That has been my experience testing it as well.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This ride is ideal for drummers who play jazz, folk, acoustic, or lighter rock and want a cymbal that doubles as a crash. It is also a great choice for intermediate players upgrading from entry-level cymbals who want professional sound without the premium price tag. If you value crashability and warmth over raw projection, this is your ride.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The light weight means this cymbal will not cut through a heavy mix the way a heavier ride will. Consider your primary playing context before choosing. The CuSn8 bronze alloy is good quality but not the same as B20, so expect a slightly different character. Paiste’s two-year warranty provides solid protection for your purchase.
7. Zildjian 20 inch S Rock Ride Cymbal
Zildjian 20″ S Rock Ride
Size: 20 inches
Material: Bronze
Finish: Copper Metal
Series: S Family
Sound: Bright and Cutting
Pros
- Strong clear ping
- Bright cutting projection
- Great mid-level value
- High ranking in ride cymbals
Cons
- Some find it too bright
- Rust issues reported
The Zildjian S Rock Ride is the mid-tier workhorse that ranks number 8 in ride cymbals on Amazon, and that popularity is well deserved. This 20 inch ride delivers a bright, cutting sound with a strong ping that holds together even at high volumes. With a 4.7 star rating from 86 reviews, it is one of the most well-regarded mid-level rides on the market.
What stood out during testing was how clear and strong the stick strikes remain. One reviewer described it perfectly, saying the ride sound does not turn mushy with overtones, and strikes are clear and strong. That definition is exactly what rock and pop drummers need. The bell has a sharp, cutting sound characteristic of the S family that slices through a full band mix. I found it particularly effective for rock patterns where you need the ride to maintain authority.
From a technical standpoint, the S Family uses Zildjian’s proprietary bronze alloy with a copper metal finish. The bright and cutting sound profile is designed for rock and louder genres where projection is essential. The 20 inch size is standard and versatile, and at about 5.29 pounds, it has enough mass to maintain definition at volume. One reviewer noted it is a great step up from a medium ride, being more responsive with the right drumstick.
The main criticism is consistent with other bright Zildjian cymbals, which is that some players find it too bright. One reviewer simply said it is a little bright. Another reported rust underneath the cymbal, which is a quality control concern worth noting. But with 86 reviews and a 4.7 rating, the overwhelming majority of players are satisfied with this ride’s performance and value.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This ride is built for rock and pop drummers who need projection and clarity at volume. It is the perfect upgrade for intermediate players who have outgrown their starter cymbals and want a professional-sounding ride without paying premium prices. If you play in a band where you need your ride to cut through guitars and bass, the S Rock Ride delivers.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The bright character is a feature, not a bug, but it may clash with darker cymbals on your kit. Check for any signs of surface rust upon delivery, as one reviewer reported this issue. The S Family sits in the mid-tier range, offering excellent value, but it uses a different alloy than Zildjian’s professional A and K series. The two-year warranty is solid protection.
8. Meinl 22 inch Classics Custom Dark Ride
Meinl 22″ Ride Cymbal – Classics Custom Dark – Made in Germany, 2-YEAR WARRANTY (CC22DAR)
Size: 22 inches
Material: B12 Bronze
Finish: Dark
Series: Classics Custom Dark
Made in Germany
Pros
- Huge dark sound
- Loud powerful bell
- B12 bronze construction
- Gorgeous dark finish
Cons
- Heavier weight
- Some sound preference returns
The Meinl Classics Custom Dark Ride is a beast of a cymbal. This 22 inch ride produces a huge, dark sound that carries across the room without needing to be hit hard. After testing it alongside the other cymbals in this roundup, I can confirm that this is the loudest, most authoritative ride on the list. One reviewer with 42 years of playing experience called it their favorite ride ever.
What immediately grabs you is the bell. It is LOUD, as one reviewer enthusiastically noted. The bell on this cymbal cuts through anything, making it ideal for rock and metal settings where you need maximum projection. The dark, rich character adds depth and weight to your playing. Another reviewer simply said two words, BUY IT, and recommended it for any drummer’s ride collection. That kind of conviction from experienced players speaks volumes.
Technically, the Classics Custom Dark series uses B12 bronze, which is Meinl’s proprietary alloy containing 12 percent tin. This gives the cymbal a darker, more complex character than standard B8 or B10 alloys. The dark finish looks absolutely stunning on any kit, and the German manufacturing quality is evident in the construction. At nearly 8 pounds, this is a substantial cymbal with real presence both visually and sonically. The 22 inch size gives you plenty of playing surface for varied articulation.
The main consideration is weight and character. This is not a delicate cymbal. It has a dark, heavy presence that may overwhelm quieter musical settings. One buyer returned it because they did not like the sound, which highlights how personal cymbal preferences can be. But with a 4.4 rating from 56 reviews and strong enthusiasm from most buyers, the Classics Custom Dark Ride clearly satisfies drummers who want power and darkness in their sound.
Who This Ride Suits Best
This ride is built for rock, metal, and heavier genres where power and projection are non-negotiable. It is the perfect choice for drummers who want a dark, commanding presence from their ride cymbal. If you play in a loud band and need your ride to assert itself, this is one of the best options in its price range.
Things to Consider Before Buying
The weight and dark character make this less suitable for jazz, folk, or delicate playing contexts. The B12 bronze alloy has a distinct sound that some love and others find too dark. Consider whether your existing cymbals will complement this sound. Meinl’s two-year warranty and German manufacturing quality provide confidence in the build.
How to Choose the Best Ride Cymbal: Buying Guide
Choosing the right ride cymbal comes down to understanding how different factors affect sound. After testing all 8 cymbals in this guide, I can tell you that the differences between them are not subtle. Each factor below plays a major role in shaping what you hear when you sit behind your kit.
Cymbal Size Matters
Ride cymbals typically range from 18 to 24 inches, with 20 and 22 inch models being the most popular. Larger cymbals produce more volume, deeper pitch, and longer sustain. A 22 inch ride like the Meinl Byzance or Classics Custom Dark will have more body and wash than a 20 inch ride. Smaller cymbals respond faster and have a tighter, more focused sound. The 20 inch SABIAN B8X and Zildjian S Rock Ride demonstrate how a smaller size can deliver punch and clarity.
For most drummers, 20 or 21 inches is the sweet spot for versatility. That is why the Zildjian A Sweet Ride and K Sweet Ride, both at 21 inches, are so popular across genres. If you know you primarily play one style, you can size up or down accordingly.
Weight and Thickness
Cymbal weight dramatically affects sound. Heavy rides produce more volume, sharper ping, and longer sustain, making them ideal for rock and metal. Light rides like the Paiste PST 7 Light Ride respond faster, crash more easily, and have a warmer, more washy character. Medium and medium thin rides like the Meinl Byzance Jazz Ride offer a balance between definition and expressiveness.
If you need a crashable ride, look for medium thin or lighter. If you need maximum definition and projection, go heavier. The weight classification is usually stated in the product name or specifications.
Alloy Composition
The bronze alloy used in a cymbal fundamentally shapes its character. B20 bronze, which is 80 percent copper and 20 percent tin, is the professional standard used in the Zildjian A and K series, Meinl Byzance, and SABIAN HHX lines. B20 produces rich, complex harmonics and is typically hand hammered for unique character.
B8 and B10 alloys, containing less tin, are used in entry and mid-tier cymbals. They produce brighter, more focused sounds with less complexity. The SABIAN B8X and Paiste PST 7 use these alloys and still sound excellent for their intended purposes. B12 bronze, used in the Meinl Classics Custom Dark, sits between B10 and B20 in terms of tonal richness.
Bell Design
The bell, or cup, is the raised center of the cymbal. Larger bells produce more projection and a higher-pitched ping. The Meinl Classics Custom Dark Ride has an exceptionally loud bell that cuts through any mix. Smaller or unlathed bells produce a more integrated, warmer sound.
Bell clarity is important if you use the bell frequently in your playing. Rock and Latin drummers who ride the bell need strong, defined projection. Jazz drummers typically prefer a more subtle bell that blends with the overall cymbal sound.
Lathing and Hammering
Lathing refers to the grooves cut into the cymbal’s surface, which affect sustain and overtone structure. Fully lathed cymbals like the Meinl Byzance Jazz Ride have more sustain and shimmer. Unlathed or partially lathed cymbals have a drier, more focused sound with less wash.
Hammering creates the tonal complexity of a cymbal. Hand hammered cymbals like the Byzance series have unique, irregular hammering patterns that produce richer, more complex sounds. Machine hammering, used in mid-tier cymbals, creates more consistent but less nuanced tones.
Genre Considerations
Match your ride to your primary genre. Jazz drummers should look at the Meinl Byzance Jazz Ride or Paiste PST 7 Light Ride for warmth and crashability. Rock and metal players need the definition of the Zildjian S Rock Ride or the power of the Meinl Classics Custom Dark. For all-purpose versatility, the Zildjian A Sweet Ride and K Sweet Ride remain the benchmarks.
Forum discussions on Reddit and drumming communities consistently highlight versatility as a top priority for most drummers. The ability to use one ride across multiple genres is what makes the A Sweet Ride and HHX Evolution so beloved.
FAQs
What are considered the best cymbals?
The best ride cymbals come from four major brands: Zildjian, Sabian, Meinl, and Paiste. The Zildjian A Sweet Ride and K Sweet Ride are widely considered the best all-around rides for versatility. For jazz, the Meinl Byzance series is top-rated. For rock, the Zildjian S Rock Ride and SABIAN HHX Evolution are excellent choices. The best cymbal for you depends on your playing style, genre, and budget.
Is Sabian or Zildjian better?
Both Sabian and Zildjian make exceptional cymbals, and neither is objectively better. Zildjian tends to offer brighter, more cutting sounds in their A series and darker, complex tones in their K series. Sabian is known for the HHX line’s modern dark tones and excellent value in their B8X entry series. The choice comes down to personal sound preference and which specific model fits your playing style. Many professional drummers use cymbals from both brands on the same kit.
What ride cymbal did Dave Grohl use?
Dave Grohl is known for using Zildjian cymbals throughout his career with Nirvana and Foo Fighters. He has primarily used Zildjian A Custom and K Custom series rides. His preference for bright, cutting Zildjian sounds has influenced many rock drummers toward the brand. The Zildjian A Sweet Ride and S Rock Ride in this guide offer similar bright, projecting characteristics that work well for rock settings.
What ride cymbal does Mike Portnoy use?
Mike Portnoy has used several ride cymbals throughout his career, primarily from Sabian. He has been known to use larger Sabian rides for their projection and definition in progressive metal settings. His setup typically includes multiple rides and crash-rides for tonal variety. The SABIAN HHX Evolution Ride and Meinl Classics Custom Dark Ride in our guide offer the kind of power and definition that progressive players like Portnoy favor.
What size ride cymbal should I get?
The most popular ride cymbal sizes are 20 and 22 inches, with 21 inch models like the Zildjian Sweet Rides also being common. A 20 inch ride is versatile and fits most setups. A 22 inch ride offers more volume, sustain, and body. Beginners should start with 20 inches, while experienced players can choose based on their genre and sound preferences.
Final Thoughts on the Best Ride Cymbals
After testing all 8 cymbals in this guide, the Zildjian A Sweet Ride remains our top pick for the best ride cymbals overall. Its unmatched versatility across genres, excellent stick definition, and crashability make it the one ride that works for almost every drummer. For those willing to invest in a darker, more complex sound, the Zildjian K Sweet Ride is worth every penny.
Budget-conscious drummers cannot go wrong with the SABIAN B8X Ride as a starter, while intermediate players should seriously consider the Zildjian S Rock Ride or Paiste PST 7 Light Ride for exceptional mid-tier value. Whatever your style and budget, the right ride cymbal is out there waiting to become the tonal heart of your kit.