Best 17" Crash Cymbals for Beginner 2026
Alright, so you're starting out on drums - awesome! A 17" crash is a sweet spot for beginners; it's big enough to get a decent wash and volume, but not so massive you're wrestling with it. Forget the huge, shimmering 20" rides everyone else is playing for now. This list will guide you to a crash that's forgiving, sounds decent, and won't break the bank while you're learning to control your dynamics.
Last updated: April 11, 2026
⚡ The best 17" crash cymbals in 2026 are Zultan 17" Aja Crash (top pick), Paiste PST7 17" Thin Crash for tighter budgets, and Zultan 17" Rock Beat Crash for pros — selected from 15 options across 3 brands, priced $93–$192, ranked by brand, price and popularity.
#1
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1.1/5
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5/10
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9/10
Zultan 17" Aja Crash
by
Zultan
Progressive
Rock
Power Playing
Key Feature:
The Zultan Aja is a surprisingly solid crash for the money. It's got a bright, upfront sound with a decent fade, making it a great option for beginner to intermediate drummers or anyone needing a budget-friendly cymbal for a splashy, energetic feel. It’s a real workhorse, perfect for rock, pop, and lighter genres.
PROS
- • Bright, responsive stick attack delivers immediate impact and clarity.
- • The B20 bronze alloy provides a warm, harmonically rich undertone.
- • Harmonically balanced fade offers a surprisingly controlled decay for its price.
- • Relatively lightweight construction (around 1300g) promotes comfortable playing.
CONS
- • Lacks the complexity and nuanced wash of higher-end cymbal alloys.
- • The thinner profile may not hold up as well to aggressive playing styles.
- • Finish is prone to oxidation if not properly cared for – requires regular cleaning.
⭐
1.1/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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1/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 273921
$94
#2
⭐
2.0/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
9/10
Paiste PST7 17" Thin Crash
by
Paiste
Progressive
Complex Music
Metal
Key Feature:
The Paiste PST7 17in Thin Crash is a solid, dependable option for drummers needing a lighter crash for quieter settings or subtle accents. It's a great entry-level cymbal, or a workhorse for gigging musicians on a budget who appreciate a warmer, less cutting sound. This is perfect for rock, pop, or lighter jazz applications.
PROS
- • CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, relatively complex tonal character.
- • Thin profile delivers a quick, responsive crash with a pleasant wash.
- • PST7 series offers a reliable, consistent sound at a budget-friendly price point.
- • Swiss manufacturing ensures a level of quality control and durability.
CONS
- • Thinness makes it susceptible to cracking with aggressive playing.
- • Sound lacks the nuanced complexity of higher-end Paiste cymbals.
- • CuSn8 bronze doesn't offer the bright shimmer of B20 bronze alloys.
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2.0/5
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5/10
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3/10
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9/10
Art. 381953
$142
#3
⭐
2.9/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
Detail:
4/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Rock Beat Crash
by
Zultan
Fusion
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
This Zultan Rock Beat is a solid crash for players who want a big, impactful sound without spending a fortune. It's got a quick response and a full tone that'll work great for rock, pop, and heavier styles – a real workhorse cymbal for gigging drummers.
PROS
- • B-20 bronze delivers a warm, musical foundation for the sound
- • Fast response makes it ideal for dynamic, nuanced playing
- • Hand-polished finish provides a bright aesthetic and consistent tone
- • Excellent projection cuts through even dense drum mixes
CONS
- • Rock Beat series leans toward a heavier sound, less versatile for lighter genres
- • Brilliant finish may require more frequent cleaning to maintain shine
- • While well-made, the B-20 alloy isn't as complex as higher-end bronze blends
⭐
2.9/5
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5/10
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4/10
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8/10
Art. 269730
$175
#4
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3.1/5
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5/10
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5/10
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8/10
Zultan 17" Caz Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Metal
Progressive
Key Feature:
The Zultan Caz 17in crash is a surprisingly articulate and responsive cymbal. Its B20 bronze construction gives it a lovely warmth, perfect for jazz, fusion, or any style where you want a more nuanced crash than a typical bright, cutting sound. It’s a great option for players seeking a more traditional feel at a reasonable price point.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Hand hammering creates nuanced overtones and a lively response.
- • Lower weight allows for fast, expressive playing and quiet dynamics.
- • Polished finish enhances brightness and visual appeal without excessive harshness.
CONS
- • The thinner profile might lack sustain for heavier, more aggressive styles.
- • B20 bronze, while versatile, won't offer the projection of B8.
- • While versatile, truly excels in jazz/fusion, less ideal for metal.
⭐
3.1/5
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5/10
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5/10
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8/10
Art. 278664
$186
#5
⭐
1.7/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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2/10
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9/10
Paiste PST7 17" Crash
by
Paiste
Fusion
Progressive
Rock
Key Feature:
The PST7 17in crash is a solid, dependable cymbal for beginners or players needing a bright, versatile crash on a budget. It's a great all-around choice for rock, pop, and lighter genres where a complex, dark sound isn't required – a real workhorse for gigging musicians.
PROS
- • Bright, shimmering wash with a quick decay.
- • CuSn8 bronze provides a warm, full fundamental.
- • Well-latted for consistent response across the cymbal surface.
- • Excellent value proposition within the entry-level crash market.
CONS
- • Lacks the complexity and nuance of higher-end Paiste cymbals.
- • The sustain, while quick, isn’t suited for extended, atmospheric washes.
- • The finish is prone to scratching and tarnishing relatively quickly.
⭐
1.7/5
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5/10
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2/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 381951
$138
#6
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2.3/5
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5/10
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3/10
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8/10
Paiste 17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash
by
Paiste
Complex Music
Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This Paiste PST8 Reflector Rock Crash is a solid workhorse—it cuts through a loud band with a bright, explosive response. It's a fantastic, budget-friendly option for rock, metal, and any genre needing a powerful crash that’s built to handle heavy use. If you need a reliable crash that sounds bigger than its price tag, this is it.
PROS
- • B8 bronze provides a warm, responsive core tone.
- • Reflector finish delivers a bright, cutting shimmer.
- • Well-suited for rock, metal, and louder musical styles.
- • Hammered construction adds complexity and sustain to the sound.
CONS
- • The 'Reflector' finish can be prone to patina and require more cleaning.
- • Sound may lack the nuanced complexity of higher-end Paiste lines.
- • Limited dynamic range; not ideal for very subtle or quiet passages.
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2.3/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
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8/10
Art. 278821
$164
#7
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2.2/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Raw Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Fusion
Rock
Key Feature:
This Zultan 17 in Raw Crash is a seriously cool cymbal for players seeking a darker, more organic sound. It’s fantastic for jazz, neo-soul, or anyone wanting a less splashy, more controlled crash. The raw finish gives it a unique character and a surprisingly dry, woody feel.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers a warm, complex foundational tone.
- • Hand-hammering creates nuanced stick definition and responsiveness.
- • Raw, unlathed surface minimizes harsh overtones and ringing.
- • Compact size offers excellent control and quick response.
CONS
- • Raw finish lacks the polished aesthetic some drummers prefer.
- • Limited versatility; excels in darker musical styles, less bright.
- • May require more frequent cleaning due to the unlathed surface.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 383207
$164
#8
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2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" F5 Crash
by
Zultan
Rock
Progressive
Complex Music
Key Feature:
This Zultan F5 is a real statement piece – loud, aggressive, and built to cut through. It's perfect for rock, metal, or any genre where you need a crash with serious volume and a defined stick sound. Not the best choice for subtle jazz work, though.
PROS
- • B20 bronze delivers warm, complex overtones and sustain.
- • Hammered finish creates unique wash and interesting visual appeal.
- • Aggressive attack provides powerful projection for louder settings.
- • Compact stick sound offers clarity and cut amidst a busy kit.
CONS
- • The aggressive nature limits versatility for quieter, more nuanced playing.
- • Hammered finish might not appeal to those preferring a pristine, shiny look.
- • The heavier weight can be fatiguing for extended playing sessions.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 269748
$164
#9
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2.2/5
AudioFu Score
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5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash
by
Zildjian
Power Playing
Complex Music
Fusion
Key Feature:
This I Family Trash Crash delivers a raw, aggressive sound perfect for rock, metal, and industrial styles. It's a great accent cymbal for adding grit and excitement to your kit, especially if you want a vintage, beaten-up vibe without the extreme expense of a truly vintage piece.
PROS
- • B8 bronze provides a surprisingly robust and complex trashy tone.
- • Medium-thin weight offers quick response and easy playability for accents.
- • Traditional lathing delivers a raw, unpolished aesthetic and sound.
- • Assertive, cutting sound cuts through dense mixes effectively.
CONS
- • The B8 alloy limits sustain compared to higher-end bronze cymbals.
- • The 'trash' character can be overly aggressive for subtle, nuanced playing.
- • Limited tonal versatility; not ideal as a primary crash cymbal.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 480890
$164
#10
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
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3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Q Crash
by
Zultan
Complex Music
Power Playing
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Q Crash is a surprisingly versatile option. The contrasting finishes create a really interesting sonic palette – you get a dark, trashy wash alongside a bright shimmer. It's a solid choice for drummers looking for a unique crash with a lot of character without a premium price tag, especially good for rock, pop, and heavier styles.
PROS
- • B20 bronze construction delivers warm, complex overtones
- • Unique bi-tonal design offers versatile dynamic response
- • Deep hammering creates a powerful, trashy wash
- • Polished areas provide clarity and shimmering accents
CONS
- • Untreated areas may develop patina faster than desired
- • The raw bell can be a bit clangy for some tastes
- • Lacks the sustain of higher-end, thinner crash cymbals
⭐
2.1/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 268244
$164
#11
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Crash Dark Matter
by
Zultan
Fusion
Progressive
Metal
Key Feature:
The Zultan Dark Matter 17-inch crash is a solid choice for drummers who prefer a darker, more musical crash without the excessive sustain. It's a great all-around cymbal, particularly well-suited for jazz, acoustic, and more nuanced rock styles where you don't want a harsh, overpowering crash.
PROS
- • Hand-hammered construction delivers a complex, nuanced wash of sound.
- • Dark Matter line provides a noticeably warmer, more controlled crash than brighter Zultan models.
- • 17-inch size offers a versatile balance between volume and responsiveness.
- • The fine overtone structure minimizes unwanted ringing, allowing for clean mixes.
CONS
- • Dark character might be too subdued for players seeking a splashy, cutting crash.
- • 100% hand-hammering means slight variations in appearance and response are expected.
- • While affordable, it may not offer the same level of complexity as premium, hand-crafted cymbals.
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 382738
$164
#12
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey Crash
by
Zultan
Rock
Metal
Complex Music
Key Feature:
The Dark Matter Holey Crash is a seriously interesting cymbal. The holes really quicken the decay and add a unique shimmer without sacrificing too much warmth – it's surprisingly versatile for a specialized design. This is a great option for drummers wanting a unique crash sound, especially those playing jazz, funk, or more nuanced grooves.
PROS
- • B20 bronze provides a warm, complex fundamental tone.
- • Holes create a unique, fast decay and shimmering wash.
- • Hand-hammering adds complexity and responsiveness to the cymbal.
- • Offers a wide dynamic range despite its shorter sustain.
CONS
- • Holey design limits its versatility for very full, wash-heavy passages.
- • The darker tone might not suit brighter, more modern playing styles.
- • While affordable, the hammering may exhibit slight inconsistencies.
⭐
1.9/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
2/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 474866
$164
#13
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Paiste 17" 900 Series Heavy Crash
by
Paiste
Fusion
Rock
Metal
Key Feature:
This 17 in Paiste 900 Heavy Crash is a solid workhorse—great for rock, pop, and heavier genres where you need a big, impactful sound. It's not the most nuanced cymbal out there, but it's reliable, sounds good, and delivers a satisfying crash for a reasonable price. Perfect for gigging drummers or anyone needing a dependable, powerful crash.
PROS
- • B8 bronze provides a warm, full tone characteristic of the 900 series.
- • Heavy weight delivers a powerful crash with substantial sustain.
- • The slightly darkened finish enhances the visual appeal and lathing detail.
- • Versatile enough for louder styles, while retaining a musical warmth.
CONS
- • The heavier weight might be fatiguing for players with smaller builds.
- • The 900 series’ bright edge can be a little harsh in quieter settings.
- • Lacks the complex overtones found in Paiste’s higher-end Signature or Twenty series.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 407502
$186
#14
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Zultan 17" Z-Series Crash
by
Zultan
Metal
Complex Music
Power Playing
Key Feature:
This Zultan 17 in crash is a surprisingly versatile cymbal, offering a warm, full sound with a quick response. It's a great option for gigging musicians or those looking for a well-balanced crash without spending a fortune – particularly well-suited for rock, pop, and lighter jazz applications.
PROS
- • Warm, full tone provides excellent wash and sustain.
- • B20 bronze delivers a bright, complex shimmer.
- • Hand-hammering adds a unique character and responsiveness.
- • Relatively fast decay prevents muddiness in dense mixes.
CONS
- • Hammering inconsistencies can lead to slight tonal variations between cymbals.
- • Zultan’s budget-friendly construction limits extreme dynamic range.
- • The finish may be prone to scratching with heavy use.
⭐
2.2/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 278619
$186
#15
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Paiste 17" 900 Color Sound Crash Blue
by
Paiste
Power Playing
Metal
Progressive
Key Feature:
This 17 in 900 Color Sound Crash Blue is a solid, versatile cymbal that delivers a warm, full sound without being overly splashy. It's a great option for gigging drummers or students looking for a reliable and affordable crash with a distinctive look, especially in rock, pop, and lighter funk.
PROS
- • Warm, full tone ideal for diverse musical styles.
- • B8 bronze offers a good balance of durability and sound.
- • The blue finish provides a unique aesthetic appeal.
- • Relatively lightweight for comfortable playing and fast crashes.
CONS
- • B8 bronze lacks the complexity of higher-end Paiste alloys.
- • Sound can be slightly 'one-dimensional' compared to more complex cymbals.
- • The blue finish might not appeal to players seeking a traditional look.
⭐
2.4/5
AudioFu Score
Specs:
5/10
Detail:
3/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 413169
$193
How to Choose the Best 17" Crash Cymbals
1
Wash vs. Stick Definition
A beginner needs a crash that's forgiving; too much stick definition makes it sound harsh when you're still learning to control your hits. A good wash helps mask those early mistakes and creates a fuller sound. Think smooth, not brittle.
2
Sustain
Too short a sustain and the crash disappears; too long and it's uncontrollable. We're looking for a balanced sustain that allows for a clear sound without ringing forever and getting in the way of the next beat.
3
Volume
A 17" crash needs to cut through a band, but it shouldn't be so loud it's overwhelming. Beginner drummers need something that can be heard in a rehearsal setting without needing a hearing aid afterward.
4
Playability
How easy is it to control the cymbal? A stiff cymbal is a nightmare when you're just starting out. We're prioritizing cymbals that respond well to a range of dynamics, even soft ones.
5
Overall Tone
Bright, dark, warm, trashy... all descriptors that can be confusing. For beginners, a generally warmer, more balanced tone is easier to work with and less prone to sounding "wrong".
Buying Guide
Don't chase the flashy finish or the brand name. Entry-level cymbals often cut corners on the alloy - they might be brass, but not the best brass. Look for a cymbal that's responsive and sounds decent, even when played quietly. Spending a little more for a used, higher-quality cymbal from a reputable brand is almost always a better investment than a brand-new, cheap one.
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 ranks 15 17" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue, which is the largest single source of specification data in this category.
Position is computed, not curated. Four signals, in order of weight: how completely the manufacturer documents the instrument (number of published specifications), where it sits in the price range, how specific the model designation is — which filters out generic accessories — and whether a product image exists. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a beginner? Probably not initially. Bronze (B8, B10, etc.) generally offer a more complex and nuanced sound, but you won't appreciate that complexity until you have more control. Brass cymbals are fine to start with and allow you to develop your technique.
B10 is generally considered a slightly higher grade of bronze alloy, resulting in a more refined sound and potentially a bit more durability. The difference isn't massive, though, and a good B8 cymbal can sound great.
Separate cymbals are better for learning. A combo is often a compromise - the crash might be too bright or the ride too thin. Focus on getting a decent crash first.
Not necessarily. Learning to control your dynamics is more important than just getting louder. A 17" crash can cut through a band if you learn to hit it properly.
Cymbals are incredibly subjective. Don't be afraid to experiment! Try different brands and sizes until you find something that inspires you. Used markets are your friend here.
