AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 17" Crash Cymbals Under $200 2026
The top pick is Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal ($184). Zultan 17" Aja Crash gives you the most for the money at $95. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 17 models across 3 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Sound Crash Blue · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size17"
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.
Cons
- B8 bronze lacks the complexity of higher-end Paiste alloys.
- Sound can be slightly 'one-dimensional' compared to more complex cymbals.
81AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$184 now$184€165 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size17"
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.
Cons
- Lacks the complexity and nuance of higher-end Paiste cymbals.
- The sustain, while quick, isn’t suited for extended, atmospheric washes.
78AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$140 now$140€125 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Series Crash · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in Paiste 900 Series Crash is a solid, reliable workhorse. It’s a great all-around cymbal that won’t break the bank, perfect for gigging musicians or students needing a dependable crash without a super-expensive price tag. The warm tone sits nicely in a mix and is surprisingly versatile.
Pros
- B8 bronze delivers a warm, controlled, and musical response.
- Universally appealing sound suits a wide range of musical styles.
- The slightly darkened finish enhances visual appeal and character.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t as complex or vibrant as higher-grade alloys.
- The 17 in size might feel small for louder, more aggressive playing.
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Crash PRP · Paiste
18 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
The Paiste 900 Color Crash PRP is a solid, versatile crash for drummers needing a warm, full sound without a premium price tag. It’s a great option for gigging musicians, students, or anyone wanting a reliable, attractive crash that cuts through a mix. The purple finish gives it a unique look, too.
Pros
- Warm, full tone ideal for a wide range of musical styles
- B8 bronze offers a good balance of durability and sound
- The 'Purple' color adds visual flair without impacting the sound
Cons
- B8 bronze isn’t the highest-end alloy; won't have the complexity of Signature or R20
- The sustain, while long, isn't as infinite as premium Paiste lines
74AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$196 now$196€175 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 17" I Family Trash Crash Cymbal
17" I Family Trash Crash · Zildjian
15 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
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.
Cons
- The B8 alloy limits sustain compared to higher-end bronze cymbals.
- The 'trash' character can be overly aggressive for subtle, nuanced playing.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Series Heavy Crash · Paiste
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
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.
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.
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Crash Cymbal
17" 900 Color Heavy Crash BK · Paiste
9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
This 17 in Paiste 900 Color Heavy Crash BK is a workhorse for rock, metal, and heavier styles. It's got a big, full sound and a solid feel that cuts through a mix, but be aware it’s not a delicate cymbal—perfect for drummers needing impact and projection.
Pros
- Rich, warm tone ideal for heavier music genres
- The B8 bronze offers a robust, durable construction
- Heavy weight provides a substantial, controlled crash
Cons
- The black finish can be prone to finger smudging and marking
- Limited versatility; not ideal for very subtle, nuanced playing
68AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$189 now$189€169 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 17" PST 8 Reflector Rock Crash Cymbal
17" PST8 Reflector Rock Crash · Paiste
8 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size17"
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.
Cons
- The 'Reflector' finish can be prone to patina and require more cleaning.
- Sound may lack the nuanced complexity of higher-end Paiste lines.
67AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size17"
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.
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.
-
- Size17"
This handcrafted cymbal hits hard but fades gently. Made from B20 bronze, it sounds powerful yet controlled. It fits drummers who want a punchy crash without the harsh edge.
Pros
- Handmade from premium B20 bronze alloy
- Delivers explosive attack with soft decay
- Offers a unique blend of power and control
Cons
- No specific weight listed for handling
- Finish type is not described in text
All 17 17" crash cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Zultan 17" Raw CrashZultan55Stable$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 12
Zultan 17" Rock Beat CrashZultan55Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 13
Zultan 17" Q CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 14
Zultan 17" F5 CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 15
Zultan 17" Caz CrashZultan55Stable$200€179$200€179Check ↗
- 16
Zultan 17" Crash Dark MatterZultan52↑ 6.7%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
- 17
Zultan 17" Dark Matter Holey CrashZultan52↑ 6.7%$178€159$178€159Check ↗
17" Crash Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 19 models we track, not a sample.
Median $184 — half of all 17" crash cymbals here cost less.
median of 19 models · 17"–17"
How to choose the best 17" crash cymbals
Sustain
At this price point, don't expect endless sustain. You're looking for enough to make a statement, not to linger for five bars. A shorter, more controlled sustain can actually be a benefit in busier mixes.
Wash
Budget cymbals often have a lot of wash - that blurry, undefined sound that can muddy up your kit's clarity. We're looking for cymbals that minimize this, even if it means sacrificing some overall volume.
Articulation
How clearly the cymbal speaks and responds to different playing dynamics. A good articulation means you can get a whisper-quiet tap or a full-on crash without it sounding choked or lifeless.
Bell Tone
The bell is crucial for that initial 'ping' and higher-frequency shimmer. We're assessing whether the bell tone is musical and cuts through, or if it's just a harsh, unpleasant clang.
Overall Timbre
This is the subjective stuff - does it sound bright, dark, warm, trashy? Does it complement your kit and playing style? We're looking for cymbals with a defined character, even if it's not the "perfect" sound.
Buying guide
Alright, so you're in the market for a 17" crash, but your wallet's feeling the pinch. It's a common situation - you need that splashy, shimmering accent without dropping a grand on a Zildjian A Custom. Don't worry, there are genuinely usable 17" crashes under $200. This isn't about settling; it's about getting the most bang for your buck and finding a cymbal that'll actually inspire you to play.
Let's be real - under $200, you're making trade-offs. Expect thinner profiles, which means less durability and potentially more unwanted overtones. Often, the hammering will be less refined, leading to a slightly more "raw" and less complex sound.
Don't chase the 'brightest' cymbal; a little warmth and a controlled wash can often sound better in a band setting. Listen for articulation - a cymbal that responds well to quiet playing is a winner.
How the AudioFu Index works
Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.
This chart covers 19 17" crash cymbals from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.
AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.
- Demand40%
How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.
- Lineup20%
How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.
- Price15%
Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.
- Specs15%
How completely the maker documents it.
- Maker10%
How deep the brand’s range is in this category.
Questions
Are these cymbals suitable for gigging?
It depends. For occasional gigs or lower-volume settings, absolutely. For constant, heavy-hitting gigs, expect them to wear out faster and potentially develop cracks. Treat them with care and consider them a consumable.
What's the difference between B8 bronze and other alloys?
B8 is a common budget alloy - it's durable but doesn't have the tonal complexity of B20 (the standard for pro cymbals). You'll notice a less nuanced sound and often more fundamental tones.
Can I get a good cymbal pack for under $200?
You might, but be wary. Packs often compromise on quality to hit the price point. Individual cymbals usually offer better value. If you do go for a pack, listen to videos and read reviews carefully.
Will these cymbals sound as good as a Zildjian A Custom?
No, and that's okay. Those cymbals cost hundreds of dollars for a reason. However, some of these budget options offer a surprisingly similar character, just with less refinement and a shorter lifespan.
What's the best way to care for a budget cymbal?
Handle it gently! Avoid hitting it super hard, use a good cymbal bag for transport, and keep it clean. A little TLC will extend its life significantly.
