AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 20" Ride Cymbals for Beginner 2026

The top pick is Meinl 20" HCS Ride ($118). Millenium 20" Still Series Ride Blue gives you the most for the money at $66. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 140 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

140models in this chart
11brands
$426median price
11price drops since Aug

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All 20" Ride Cymbals Showing: For Beginner · clear
Price
Skill level
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Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Meinl 20" HCS Ride

    Meinl

    34 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Meinl HCS 20” Ride is a solid entry-level option for students or gigging musicians on a budget. It delivers a bright, clear sound with a good stick definition, making it easy to hear in a band setting. It’s not going to blow you away with complexity, but it's a reliable and affordable workhorse.

    Pros

    • Bright, clear stick attack cuts through busy mixes effectively.
    • HCS Bronze offers a surprisingly responsive feel for its price point.
    • Defined bell provides a pleasant, articulate accent.

    Cons

    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end bronze alloys.
    • Durability is moderate; expect more frequent polishing.
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand80
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$118 now
    $118€105 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Crash / Ride

    20" HCS Crash-Ride · Meinl

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Meinl HCS Crash-Ride is a solid choice for beginner drummers or those needing a versatile, budget-friendly cymbal. It's surprisingly capable for both crashes and rides, though don't expect the depth of a high-end ride – it’s a great workhorse for practice and casual gigs.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering crash response with a surprisingly usable ride tone
    • MS63 brass offers a warmer sound than higher bronze alloys
    • The HCS series provides excellent durability for frequent use

    Cons

    • Lacks the complexity and sustain of higher-end cymbals
    • The wash is somewhat thin and less defined than premium rides
    71AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand71
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$118 now
    $118€105 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Paiste 20" 101 Brass Ride Cymbal

    20" 101 Ride · Paiste

    19 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Paiste 101 Ride is a great entry-level ride, offering a good balance of warmth and clarity. It's ideal for students, gigging musicians on a budget, or anyone needing a reliable, all-purpose ride without breaking the bank. It’s a solid choice for a wide range of musical styles.

    Pros

    • Bright stick attack offers immediate, clear definition.
    • Balanced wash provides a warm, musical sustain.
    • Solid brass construction ensures durability and longevity.

    Cons

    • The 101 series is relatively thin, lacking some projection.
    • The bell isn't particularly powerful or cutting.
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand67
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$111 now
    $111€99 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Millenium 20" Still Series Ride Blue

    Millenium

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Millenium Still Series Ride is a solid budget-friendly option for drummers needing serious volume control. It won't replace your main ride, but it's fantastic for quiet practice, low-volume gigs, or rehearsals where you don’t want to annoy the neighbors. If you're a student or just need a practice cymbal, this is a surprisingly capable choice.

    Pros

    • Nickel construction provides a darker, more muted tone than bronze alternatives.
    • The blue finish, while cosmetic, offers a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
    • Significant volume reduction makes it ideal for quiet practice and rehearsals.

    Cons

    • Nickel alloy lacks the complex overtones of traditional bronze rides.
    • The 'still' design limits dynamic range and expressive possibilities.
    55AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup79
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker47
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$66 now
    $66€59 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash Cymbal

    PST3 20" Ride · Paiste

    9 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Paiste PST3 20' ride is a great entry-level option for drummers needing a reliable, clear sound. It's a solid all-rounder, perfect for gigging musicians or students wanting a workhorse ride without the premium price tag—just don't expect it to replace a boutique cymbal.

    Pros

    • Bright, clear fundamental tone with a defined stick attack
    • Offers a surprisingly controllable wash for its price point
    • Solid brass construction provides good durability and resonance

    Cons

    • Lacks the complexity and shimmering overtones of higher-end rides
    • The 'sizzling ping' can be a little harsh for some tastes
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand52
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$108 now
    $108€96 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Millenium 20" Still Series Ride regular

    Millenium

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This Millenium Still Series Ride is a solid budget-friendly option if you're primarily focused on quiet practice or unplugged gigs. The nickel construction delivers a noticeably darker, more controlled sound, and it's surprisingly lightweight for easy transport. It’s not going to fool anyone into thinking it’s a high-end bronze ride, but it gets the job done for low-volume needs.

    Pros

    • Nickel construction provides a darker, more muted tone than bronze.
    • Regular finish reduces unwanted brightness, ideal for quiet practice.
    • Still Series design effectively dampens sound for low-volume playing.

    Cons

    • Nickel cymbals lack the sustain and complexity of bronze alternatives.
    • Regular finish can appear visually unremarkable compared to brighter finishes.
    55AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup50
    • Price88
    • Specs100
    • Maker47
    ↓ 12.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $89 · Aug 17$78 now
    $78€69 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Sabian 20" XSR Ride Cymbal

    20" SBR Ride · Sabian

    38 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Sabian SBR 20 ride is a solid, dependable option for drummers needing a bright, articulate ride without the premium price tag. It's great for rock, pop, and funk where you need a clear stick definition and a usable bell. A good starting point or reliable workhorse for gigging musicians.

    Pros

    • Bright, clean stick articulation allows for precise patterns.
    • Solid brass construction offers durability and a warm core tone.
    • Versatile bell provides accents and a wider range of sounds.

    Cons

    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end, more expensive rides.
    • The 'natural' finish can be prone to tarnishing requiring regular cleaning.
    72AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand82
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$163 now
    $163€145 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal

    PST7 20" Light Ride · Paiste

    10 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Paiste PST7 20in Light Ride is a solid, affordable option for drummers needing a do-it-all cymbal. It's great for beginners or gigging musicians who want a bright, responsive ride that can also double as a crash – it's a real workhorse.

    Pros

    • Bright, shimmering wash provides a versatile, usable crash/ride option
    • CuSn8 bronze delivers a warm, foundational tonal character
    • Relatively thin weight allows for easy control and quick response

    Cons

    • Lacks the complexity and sustain of higher-end ride cymbals
    • The bell sound is somewhat muted and not particularly prominent
    74AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand54
    • Lineup100
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$186 now
    $186€165 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" S Series Medium Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Zildjian S Series Medium Ride is a solid, dependable choice for drummers seeking a bright, articulate sound without the premium price tag. It's a workhorse ride – excellent for gigging musicians and students alike who need a reliable, responsive cymbal that cuts through a mix.

    Pros

    • B12 bronze offers a balanced, responsive feel and tone.
    • Medium weight provides excellent stick definition and control.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.

    Cons

    • The sound might be too bright for some heavier musical genres.
    • Lacks the complexity and sustain of higher-end cymbals.
    78AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price36
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    ↑ 4.8%since Aug 17
    $235 · Aug 17$246 now
    $246€219 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" PST8 Reflector Rock Ride · Paiste

    10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This PST8 Reflector Rock Ride is a real workhorse for rock and metal drummers needing a bright, powerful sound. The Reflector finish adds a cool visual element and a touch of shimmer, while the solid bell gives you some serious crash power. It’s a great option if you're after a dependable, high-volume ride without breaking the bank.

    Pros

    • Bright, cutting sound cuts through dense rock mixes effectively
    • Reflector finish offers a unique, shimmering wash alongside stick definition
    • B8 bronze provides a solid, reliable, and durable construction

    Cons

    • The 'Radiant' finish can be prone to marking and tarnishing quickly
    • Sound leans heavily towards a modern, bright rock tone; lacks vintage warmth
    70AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand54
    • Lineup79
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$213 now
    $213€189 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 140 20" ride cymbals

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Paiste PST5 20" Rock Ride '14Paiste · 2 finishes
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$174€155
    $174€155Check ↗
  2. 12
    Millenium 20" B20 RideMillenium
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$145€129
    $145€129Check ↗
  3. 13
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  4. 14
    Meinl 20" HCS Practice Ride Cymbal20" Practice HCS Ride · Meinl
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$208€185
    $208€185Check ↗
  5. 15
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride20" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$262€233
    $262€233Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zultan 20" Aja Blaze RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zultan 20" Aja RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗
  8. 18
    Sabian 20" B8X Medium Ride Cymbal20" B8X Ride · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  9. 19
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$242€215
    $242€215Check ↗
  10. 20
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  11. 21
    Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  12. 22
    Zildjian 20" I Family Ride MediumZildjian
    Index 53Stable
    53
    Stable$213€189
    $213€189Check ↗
  13. 23
    Evans 20" dB One RideEvans
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$197€175
    $197€175Check ↗
  14. 24
    Masterwork 20" Custom Rock RideMasterwork
    Index 51↓ 4.8%
    51
    ↓ 4.8%$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  15. 25
    Masterwork 20" Troy Traditional RideMasterwork
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$224€199
    $224€199Check ↗
  16. 26
    Zultan 20" Raw Jazz RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  17. 27
    Zultan 20" Raw RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  18. 28
    Paiste 20"900ColorSound HeavyRide PRPPaiste
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$250€222
    $250€222Check ↗
  19. 29
    Zultan 20" Raw Flat RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  20. 30
    Zultan 20" Rock Beat Heavy RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  21. 31
    Zultan 20" F5 RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  22. 32
    Zultan 20" Rock Beat Medium RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  23. 33
    Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan
    Index 55↓ 4.0%
    55
    ↓ 4.0%$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  24. 34
    Zultan 20" Ride Dark MatterZultan
    Index 49↑ 10.1%
    49
    ↑ 10.1%$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  25. 35
    Masterwork 20" Custom RideMasterwork
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  26. 36
    Zultan 20" Aeon RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  27. 37
    Meinl 20" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy RiMeinl
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  28. 38
    Zultan 20" Q RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  29. 39
    Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal20" K-Custom Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 82↓ 4.2%
    82
    ↓ 4.2%$517€459
    $517€459Check ↗
  30. 40
    Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal20" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
    Index 81Stable
    81
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  31. 41
    Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal20" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian
    Index 81Stable
    81
    Stable$472€419
    $472€419Check ↗
  32. 42
    Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal20" K-Series Ride · Zildjian
    Index 81Stable
    81
    Stable$539€479
    $539€479Check ↗
  33. 43
    Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal20" K-Custom Custom Ride · Zildjian
    Index 81Stable
    81
    Stable$560€498
    $560€498Check ↗
  34. 44
    Paiste 20" Signature Full Ride Cymbal20" Signature Full Ride · Paiste
    Index 74Stable
    74
    Stable$584€519
    $584€519Check ↗
  35. 45
    Sabian 20" XSR Ride Cymbal20" FRX Ride · Sabian
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$663€589
    $663€589Check ↗
  36. 46
    Meinl 20" Byzance Foundry Reserve Light Ride Cymbal20" Byzance Foundry Reserve LR · Meinl · 2 finishes
    Index 72Stable
    72
    Stable$697€619
    $697€619Check ↗
  37. 47
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark RideMeinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$287€255
    $287€255Check ↗
  38. 48
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  39. 49
    Sabian 20" Stratus Ride Cymbal20" Stratus Ride · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  40. 50
    Sabian 20" HHX Evolution Ride Cymbal20" HHX Evolution Ride · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$573€509
    $573€509Check ↗

20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 146 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $426 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.

3
13
49
79
2
<$100$100–200$200–400$400–750$750+
Size20"

median of 146 models · 20"–20"

How to choose the best 20" ride cymbals

Wash

A beginner needs a ride that can create a full, supportive wash - it's what makes the groove feel good and fills out the sonic space. Too much wash and it'll get muddy; too little and it'll sound thin and brittle.

Stick Definition/Articulation

You need to be able to hear what you're playing! Good stick definition means the bell and bow respond clearly without getting lost in the wash. This is vital for learning different patterns and dynamics.

Playability/Action

A ride that's stiff and resistant to movement is a nightmare for a beginner. Look for something that responds easily to lighter touches and allows for a smooth, flowing action. You want to feel the cymbal, not fight it.

Overall Tone

A balanced tone is key. Too much bright, ice-picky high-end can be fatiguing and harsh. Look for a ride with a warm core and a controllable high-end - something that can cut through a band without being painful.

Durability

Let's be honest, you're probably not being super careful. A ride that's prone to cracking or denting after a few gigs isn't worth the money. Solid construction and a reasonable alloy are important for longevity.

Buying guide

So, you're starting out on the drums? Awesome! A good ride cymbal is more than just a 'ting' - it's the pulse, the wash, the feel of a groove. A 20" ride is a sweet spot for beginners, offering enough size for a decent wash without being unwieldy. Let's look at some solid options that won't leave you frustrated and will actually inspire you to practice.

Don't chase the 'big name' hype right away. Entry-level cymbals from reputable brands often offer the best value. Be wary of super-cheap, unbranded rides - they often cut corners on alloy and hammering, resulting in a lifeless, brittle sound.

A slightly more expensive, well-made ride will feel better, sound better, and last longer, ultimately saving you money in the long run. Listen for a good balance - you want something that responds, doesn't sound like a trashcan lid, and can handle a decent stick attack.

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 146 20" ride 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

What's the difference between B8 and B20 bronze?

B8 is a common alloy for entry-level cymbals - it's more affordable but generally has a darker, less complex sound. B20 bronze is the standard for higher-end cymbals, offering more overtones and a brighter, more shimmering tone, but it comes at a higher price.

Should I get a heavier or lighter ride?

As a beginner, a medium weight is generally best. It offers a good balance of responsiveness and sustain without being too heavy to control. Lighter rides can feel flimsy, while heavier rides require more force to get a good sound.

What about different bell types?

The bell is the 'ping' you hear when you hit the center. A smaller bell will give a more focused, defined ping, while a larger bell will create a more voluminous, resonant sound. For beginners, a medium-sized bell is a safe bet.

I play in a loud rock band - will a 20" ride be loud enough?

A 20" ride can cut through a rock band, but you might need to adjust your technique and possibly consider a slightly heavier weight or a ride with a more defined bell. It's a trade-off - you'll likely need to be more precise with your playing.

Are used cymbals a good option?

Absolutely! You can often find great deals on used cymbals, but inspect them carefully for cracks or excessive keyholing. A little bit of wear and tear is fine, but avoid anything that looks structurally compromised.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 74Meinl 20" HCS Ride · $118€105
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