AudioFu Chart · October 2026
Best 20" Ride Cymbals Under $300 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal ($246). Meinl 20" HCS Ride gives you the most for the money at $118. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 47 models across 8 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
-
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.
-
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$118 now$118€105 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$186 now$186€165 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- 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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$163 now$163€145 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
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
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$118 now$118€105 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Classics Custom Pow. Ride is a beast for rock, hard rock, and metal drummers needing a defined, cutting ride sound. It's got a real punch and presence without getting muddy, though it's not the most versatile choice for quieter genres. A solid, reliable option for players wanting a powerful ride without a premium price tag.
Pros
- Bright, cutting wash ideal for powerful rock and metal grooves
- B20 bronze alloy delivers a focused, assertive character
- Brilliant finish enhances shimmer and projection onstage
Cons
- Can be overly bright for softer, more nuanced musical styles
- Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end ride cymbals
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$262 now$262€233 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
The Sabian B8X 20' Ride is a solid, reliable option for drummers seeking a warm, expressive ride without the premium price tag. It's fantastic for beginner to intermediate players, or anyone needing a dependable workhorse cymbal for a variety of genres like rock, pop, and lighter jazz. The hammering gives it a surprisingly nuanced character, especially considering the alloy.
Pros
- B8 bronze offers a surprisingly warm, complex tone for the price.
- Hammered bell provides a clear, articulate wash without being overly splashy.
- Medium weight balances sustain and stick definition well.
Cons
- B8 bronze isn't as bright or shimmering as higher-end alloys.
- Hammering, while intentional, can introduce slight inconsistencies in tone.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$269 now$269€239 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Classics Custom Dark Ride is a really solid all-rounder. The B12 bronze gives it a lovely warmth and complexity without getting muddy, and it responds well to a variety of playing styles. It's a great choice for players seeking a balanced, versatile ride that won’t overpower a kit – especially good for jazz, funk, and modern rock.
Pros
- B12 bronze offers a warm, complex sonic character.
- Excellent stick definition for clean, articulate playing.
- Full overtone spectrum provides a dynamic, responsive feel.
Cons
- Can be a bit dark for brighter, more cutting styles.
- The natural finish is prone to finger smudging and oxidation.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$287 now$287€255 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl
24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This Classics Custom ride is a workhorse – a really solid choice for gigging musicians needing a reliable, all-around ride. It's got a clear stick attack and a good, full sound that cuts through a mix without being overly splashy. Ideal for rock, pop, and funk players who want a dependable and versatile ride cymbal.
Pros
- Excellent stick definition thanks to the Brilliant finish.
- Balanced wash and stick sound provide versatile musicality.
- Defined bell offers a clear, cutting accent tone.
Cons
- The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for some drummers.
- The 'resolute' character can be a bit dry for those seeking a washier ride.
71AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$291 now$291€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal
20" PST8 Reflector Medium Ride · Paiste
10 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
- Size20"
The Paiste PST8 Reflector Medium Ride is a solid all-around workhorse. It delivers a warm, musical tone with a nice shimmer that's surprisingly versatile – a great choice for gigging musicians and students looking for reliable quality without a premium-priced tag.
Pros
- Warm, full tone with surprising clarity for the price point.
- Reflector finish adds unique shimmer and complexity.
- B8 bronze construction offers a solid, reliable feel.
Cons
- The medium weight might feel a bit heavy for some drummers.
- Reflector finish can be prone to minor patina development over time.
70AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$213 now$213€189 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 47 20" ride cymbals
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
- 11
Paiste 20" 101 Brass Ride Cymbal20" 101 Ride · Paiste69Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 12
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste69Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 13
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste64Stable$242€215$242€215Check ↗
- 14
Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian64Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste64Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 20" Ride · Paiste63Stable$108€96$108€96Check ↗
- 17
Paiste PST5 20" Rock Ride '14Paiste · 2 finishes60Stable$174€155$174€155Check ↗
- 18
Meinl 20" HCS Practice Ride Cymbal20" Practice HCS Ride · Meinl60Stable$208€185$208€185Check ↗
- 19
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride20" Classics Extreme Ride · Meinl59Stable$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 20
Millenium 20" Still Series Ride RedMillenium · 2 finishes55Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 21
Millenium 20" Still Series Ride regularMillenium55↓ 12.7%$78€69$78€69Check ↗
- 22
Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan55↓ 4.0%$269€239$269€239Check ↗
- 23
Zultan 20" Aja RideZultan54Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 24
Zultan 20" Aja Blaze RideZultan54Stable$190€169$190€169Check ↗
- 25
Zultan 20" Raw RideZultan54Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 26
Zultan 20" Raw Jazz RideZultan54Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 27
Paiste 20"900ColorSound HeavyRide PRPPaiste54Stable$250€222$250€222Check ↗
- 28
Zultan 20" Rock Beat Medium RideZultan54Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 29
Zultan 20" F5 RideZultan54Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 30
Zultan 20" Rock Beat Heavy RideZultan54Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 31
Zultan 20" Raw Flat RideZultan54Stable$258€229$258€229Check ↗
- 32
Zultan 20" Q RideZultan54Stable$269€239$269€239Check ↗
- 33
Meinl 20" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy RiMeinl54Stable$269€239$269€239Check ↗
- 34
Zultan 20" Aeon RideZultan54Stable$269€239$269€239Check ↗
- 35
Zultan 20" Aeon Light RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 36
Zultan 20" Caz RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 37
Zultan 20" Dune RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 38
Zultan 20" Ride 25Zultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 39
Zultan 20" Alaris light RideZultan54Stable$280€249$280€249Check ↗
- 40
Zildjian 20" I Family Ride MediumZildjian53Stable$213€189$213€189Check ↗
- 41
Masterwork 20" Custom Rock RideMasterwork51↓ 4.8%$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 42
Masterwork 20" Jazz Master RideMasterwork51↓ 3.7%$291€259$291€259Check ↗
- 43
Millenium 20" B20 RideMillenium49Stable$145€129$145€129Check ↗
- 44
Masterwork 20" Troy Traditional RideMasterwork49Stable$224€199$224€199Check ↗
- 45
Masterwork 20" Custom RideMasterwork49Stable$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 46
Zultan 20" Ride Dark MatterZultan49↑ 10.1%$246€219$246€219Check ↗
- 47
Evans 20" dB One RideEvans47Stable$197€175$197€175Check ↗
20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 52 models we track, not a sample.
Median $246 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.
median of 52 models · 20"–20"
How to choose the best 20" ride cymbals
Sustain
This is key. A ride needs to sing, not just thud. Expect shorter sustain than a Zildjian A Custom, but a decent ride in this price range should still have enough to create a wash. Less sustain means less 'atmosphere', a trade-off we'll talk about.
Bell Definition
How well does the stick articulate on the bell? A muddy bell sounds sloppy. You want a clear 'ping' that cuts through, especially for those bell-heavy patterns. Don't expect the clarity of a B803, but listen for something that isn't just a dull thwack.
Wash & Complexity
A good ride isn't just one note. It's a complex wash of overtones. Cheaper cymbals tend to be one-dimensional - a single, sustained tone. We're looking for some complexity, even if it's subtle.
Trashiness/Character
Budget cymbals often have a certain 'trashiness' that some players dig. It can add grit and edge to your sound. But too much trashiness just sounds cheap. We're looking for character, not just poorly manufactured noise.
Durability
Let's be real, these aren't built like tanks. Expect some cracking and keyholing over time, especially if you hit hard. The alloy and lathing play a big role - thicker cymbals generally last longer, but can also sound stiffer.
Buying guide
Alright, let's talk ride cymbals. You're gigging, maybe recording, and you want that wash and stick definition without blowing your budget. Finding a 20" ride that cuts through the mix and has some character under $300 isn't impossible, but you gotta know what to look for - and what you're sacrificing. This list is about getting the most 'bang for your buck' - not chasing perfection, but finding something that'll actually sound good and hold up to regular use.
At this price point, you're making compromises. Don't expect perfect tonal balance or flawless manufacturing. Look for cymbals that offer a decent sustain and articulate bell, even if the overall wash isn't as complex as a top-tier ride.
Used cymbals are your friend - you can often snag a higher-end model for a steal, but inspect carefully for cracks. Don't be afraid to experiment with hammering or shaping a cymbal to get the sound you want.
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 52 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
Are these cymbals loud enough for a rock band?
It depends on your band. They'll likely need to be hit harder to cut through a loud mix. Don't expect the same volume as a flagship ride, but many of these can hold their own with a good technique.
Will these cymbals crack easily?
All cymbals crack eventually, but budget models are more prone to it. Handle with care, avoid extreme temperature changes, and don't hit them like you're demolishing a wall.
Can I use these for recording?
Absolutely! They can add a unique character to your recordings, especially if you're going for a raw or vintage vibe. Just be mindful of the inherent limitations - they might not be as versatile as a more expensive ride.
What's the difference between B22 and B8 Bronze?
B22 is generally a step up from B8, offering slightly better tonal complexity and sustain, but the difference is often subtle. B8 is your budget workhorse - it'll get the job done.
Should I buy new or used?
Used is almost always the smarter move at this price point. You can often find higher-quality cymbals for less, but be sure to inspect them for cracks and damage before you buy.
