Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals Under $800 2026
Alright, so you're after 13" hi-hats but don't want to drop a grand. Smart move - 13s offer a tighter, more controlled sizzle that's killer for funk, jazz, and anything where you need that crisp, articulate chick sound. Finding a pair that sounds good and doesn't fall apart after a few gigs in this price range takes some digging, but it's totally doable. We're focusing on value, because let's be honest, at this budget, you're making trade-offs.
Last updated: September 7, 2026
Sabian 13" HHX Evolution Hi-Hat
- • The hand-hammering delivers a complex, shimmering wash unlike many machined hats.
- • The contrasting top/bottom cymbal design provides a wide dynamic range and articulation.
- • Sabian’s Tone Projection technology ensures a quick, responsive feel for nuanced playing.
- • The brilliant finish offers excellent visual appeal and projects sound effectively in live settings.
- • The heavier bottom cymbal might feel a bit stiff for very subtle, quiet playing.
- • The bright sound signature isn't ideal for all genres, particularly darker, more mellow styles.
- • These are premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most drummers.
Zildjian 13" K-Series Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional 'chick' sound due to the B20 bronze alloy.
- • Quick response facilitates complex, nuanced hi-hat patterns.
- • Full, complex overtones provide a warm, vintage character.
- • Durable construction withstands demanding playing and transport.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Smaller size limits low-end response compared to larger hi-hats.
- • Regular finish can be prone to marking and tarnishing.
Paiste 13" Signature Dark Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional hand-hammered Swiss quality and consistency.
- • Dark, controlled sound ideal for funk, jazz, and R&B.
- • 13-inch size offers a unique, splashy response.
- • Signature Dark's complex overtones are beautifully subdued.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Smaller size limits versatility for heavier rock or metal styles.
- • Darker sound may not suit all musical genres or playing preferences.
Meinl 13" Byzance Extra Dry Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional stick definition due to the carefully hammered profile.
- • The 'Extra Dry' lathing produces a uniquely muted, controlled wash.
- • B20 bronze provides a complex, warm tonal foundation.
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more responsive feel compared to larger hats.
- • The dry sound isn't suitable for all genres; lacks bright, shimmering qualities.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Can be overly quiet for louder, more aggressive musical styles.
Meinl 13" Byzance Dark Hi-Hat
- • Exceptional dark, controlled sound ideal for jazz and quieter genres
- • Hand-hammering provides nuanced complexity and responsiveness
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full, and complex tone
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more defined chick sound
- • Price point places it in a premium-priced category for many drummers
- • Dark sound may lack the sizzle desired for louder, more aggressive styles
- • Smaller size can feel a bit limiting for players accustomed to 14-inch hats
Meinl 13" Byzance Jazz Thin Hi-Hat
- • Exceptionally responsive, nuanced chick sound due to thin profile and B20 bronze.
- • Warm, dark, and complex tone ideal for jazz, blues, and vintage recordings.
- • Hand-hammered finish provides a uniquely musical, shimmering quality.
- • 13-inch size offers a more intimate, controlled feel compared to larger hi-hats.
- • Thinness makes them potentially fragile; requires careful handling and transport.
- • The dark tone may not suit heavier rock or metal styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
Istanbul Agop 13" Agop Signature Hi-Hat
- • Hand-hammering creates a complex, nuanced tone absent in mass-produced hats.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a warm, full fundamental with excellent projection.
- • The crisp, defined 'chick' sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
- • Agop Signature series represents a legacy of cymbal craftsmanship and tonal innovation.
- • The 'dry' sound might not suit players seeking a bright, shimmering hi-hat tone.
- • 13” size limits versatility; less suited for genres needing a larger, washier sound.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
Meinl 13" Byzance Hi-Hat Medium
- • Exceptional stick definition thanks to the B12 bronze alloy.
- • Complex, shimmering wash provides a sophisticated, nuanced sound.
- • Hand-hammered lathing creates a lively, responsive feel.
- • The medium weight offers a versatile response across various playing styles.
- • The 13-inch size limits low-end projection compared to larger hi-hats.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The bright, complex sound may not suit heavier, darker musical genres.
Meinl 13" Byzance Serpents Hi-Hat
- • Derek Roddy signature design delivers a uniquely musical, complex sound.
- • B20 bronze construction provides warmth and sustain characteristic of high-end cymbals.
- • Distinct top and bottom cymbal hammering creates nuanced chick and pedal response.
- • 13-inch size offers a darker, more controlled sound than standard 14-inch hats.
- • Premium-priced, making them a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The 'washed-out' tone might not suit heavier, more aggressive musical styles.
- • Smaller size limits versatility; not ideal for players needing a bright, cutting sound.
Istanbul Agop 13" Mel Lewis Sign.1982 Hi-Hat
- • Warm, complex wash provides a beautifully musical, nuanced foundation.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a vintage character lacking in many modern hats.
- • Mel Lewis’ signature voicing offers a controlled stick definition and stick response.
- • Hammered bell provides a shimmering, articulate accent when opened fully.
- • The softer nature makes them less suitable for aggressive, heavy-hitting styles.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • Smaller 13-inch size may feel cramped for drummers accustomed to larger hats.
Zildjian 13" A-Series New Beat Hi-Hat
- • Bright, shimmering stick sound with excellent articulation
- • The 'New Beat' voicing offers a modern, crisp response
- • A-Series bronze provides a warm, controlled sustain
- • 13-inch size delivers a unique, slightly tighter feel
- • Can be overly bright for very vintage or mellow playing styles
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for beginners
- • Lacks the complex wash of some larger or more complex hi-hats
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Legend Hi-Hat
- • Designed specifically for Jazz playing needs
- • Delivers a full and warm sound profile
- • Optimized for controlled hi-hat techniques
- • Offers a natural finish look and feel
- • No specific metal thickness or material listed
- • Lacks details on weight distribution balance
- • Missing information on actual cymbal weight
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Medium Hi-Hat Turk Series
- • Hand-hammered B20 bronze delivers complex, nuanced stick definition.
- • Untreated surface provides a drier, more controlled sound than many hi-hats.
- • 13-inch size offers a tighter, more responsive feel for quicker footwork.
- • Turk series construction ensures consistent quality and durability for frequent use.
- • The drier sound might lack the wash preferred by some jazz or fusion players.
- • Limited tonal versatility compared to more complex, multi-alloy hi-hats.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for beginner drummers.
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Light Hi-Hat Traditional
- • The B20 bronze alloy delivers a complex, nuanced wash and stick definition.
- • Light weight provides exceptional stick feel and quick, responsive foot action.
- • Traditional hammering creates a warm, organic sound with rich overtones.
- • Regular design offers a balanced response suitable for diverse playing styles.
- • The lighter weight might lack the power needed for extremely loud, aggressive playing.
- • The 'dark' sound may not be ideal for brighter, more contemporary music genres.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
Istanbul Mehmet 13" Hi-Hat Sultan Series
- • Exceptional stick definition for crisp, articulate playing.
- • Warm, musical tone avoids harshness, very controllable.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers complexity and sustain.
- • Well-suited for a wide range of genres needing nuanced hi-hats.
- • May lack the shimmer preferred by some jazz players.
- • The 'dry' nature can limit wash potential for certain styles.
- • Premium-priced, a significant investment for beginners.
Every 13" hi-hat cymbals that matches
37 models match this page. The 15 above are covered in detail; the rest are listed here with their published specifications.
13" Hi-Hat Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 37 models in this category, so «wide», «short» or «expensive» mean something you can check.
How to Choose the Best 13" Hi-Hat Cymbals
Sound Character
This isn't just about 'bright' or 'dark'. We're looking for a defined response - a clear stick definition, a controllable pedal action, and a sizzle that cuts through the mix without being ice-pick harsh. Does it have that fat midrange honk you need for a vintage vibe, or a crisp, modern articulation?
Feel & Wash
A good 13" hat shouldn't feel stiff or unresponsive. The 'wash' - that shimmering sound when you open the hats - should be musical and controllable, not just a chaotic wash of noise. Too much stickiness can kill your dynamics.
Durability & Lathe Marks
Budget cymbals often cut corners on the lathing process, leaving uneven edges that can contribute to unwanted noise and premature cracking. We're looking for relatively clean edges, even if they aren't perfectly mirror-polished.
Weight & Foot Response
A lighter hat will respond faster to your footwork, which is great for complex rhythms. A heavier hat will have more sustain and a louder pedal sound. Finding the right balance for your playing style is key.
Sustain & Decay
While 13" hats aren't known for massive sustain, they still need to have enough to deliver a full, resonant sound. A quick, abrupt decay can make them feel lifeless and lacking in body - especially when playing with a full band.
Buying Guide
At this price point, expect some trade-offs. You likely won't get the complex overtones or perfectly even hammering of a flagship cymbal. Look for brands known for decent entry-level options - Zildjian, Sabian, Paiste, and even some of the newer brands are stepping up their game. Pay attention to reviews focusing on durability; cheaper bronze alloys are more prone to cracking if you're not careful. Don't chase 'brightest' - a balanced, controllable sound will serve you better in the long run.
How This List Is Built
We don't play these instruments — we're a catalog, not a review desk, and we'd rather say so than pretend otherwise. This page covers 37 13" hi-hat cymbals from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category: 15 in detail, the rest listed with their specifications.
Position is computed, not curated. We parse the manufacturer's own description into actual values — nut width, scale, fret count, fingerboard radius, size, alloy — and rank on them: how many specifications a model has published, how many of them are measurable numbers, and how precisely it meets this page's criterion. A product image adds a little. Price is not a ranking signal: it tells you nothing about whether a neck fits your hand. The same inputs always produce the same order, so nothing here is shuffled to look fresh.
What this list is good for: narrowing a category down to a shortlist by spec and budget. What it isn't: a substitute for hearing an instrument. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
