Best 16-18" Hi-Hat Cymbals for Intermediate 2026

• Size16"

This is a 16 inch hi-hat from Paiste's Giant Beat series, made of CuSn8 bronze. Its sound is described as bright and warm, with a complex, dark and glassy shimmer. You can use it for quiet and loud playing, both live and in the studio, so it suits you if you want one hi-hat for many different settings.

• Size16"

This is a 16-inch hi-hat made from B20 bronze and hand-hammered for a dark, dry sound. It has a crisp chick and a dry stick stop with a warm tone, so it suits you if you want a focused, characterful hi-hat with a complex voice.

• Size17"

You get a 17-inch hi-hat made from B20 bronze, hand hammered and part of the Traditional Dark Series. Its sound is dark, deep and soft, so it suits you if you want a mellow hi-hat rather than a sharp one.

• Size17"

These Xist Dry Dark Brill hats are a fantastic choice for drummers seeking a unique, vintage-inspired sound. The combination of a thin top and a slightly heavier bottom provides a surprising amount of control and projection for a 'trashy' hat. They're perfect for genres like jazz, blues, and alternative where a darker, more complex hi-hat voice is desired.

• Size17"

These Xist Dry Dark hi-hats from Istanbul Agop are a real find for drummers wanting a modern, articulate sound. The 17-inch size nails that balance between trash and wash, making them perfect for genres like indie, alternative, and even some jazz where you want a more understated, organic feel. They’re built solid and offer a unique character you won't find in more mass-produced cymbals.

• Size17"

These 2002 Sound Edge hi-hats are a real classic for a reason. The corrugated edge gives them a distinctive shimmer and a powerful open sound while retaining a tight, articulate chick. They’re ideal for players seeking a bright, energetic feel in rock, pop, and funk – a solid upgrade for intermediate to advanced drummers.

• Size16"

This 16-inch hi-hat hits hard with a dry, bold tone thanks to deep hammering and B20 bronze. The raw top and traditional bottom finish offer a unique look, though the weight isn't listed. It suits players who want strong control and a dark sound without too much splash.

• Size16"

These Ufip Blast hi-hats are seriously responsive and cut through a mix like crazy. The hammered finish gives them a unique, almost gritty character that's perfect for modern rock, electronic music, or anything needing a sharp, defined attack. They’re not your grandpa’s vintage hats, but if you want a modern edge and articulate stick definition, these are worth a close listen.

• Size16"

This is a 16 inch hi-hat made from B20 bronze and hand hammered. It gives you a very dry, dark sound with a trashy edge and a short sustain. It suits you if you play many bass parts and want a cymbal you can control well, in rock, funk, R&B, jazz or the studio.