AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best 20" Ride Cymbals Under $500 2026

The top pick is Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal ($426). Meinl 20" HCS Ride gives you the most for the money at $118. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 90 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 18, 2026

90models in this chart
11brands
$280median price
8price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All 20" Ride Cymbals Showing: Under $500 · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

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

  1. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    This A Series Medium Ride is a solid choice for drummers needing a dependable, all-purpose cymbal. It's got a clean, bright sound that cuts through a mix, and the build quality is excellent for the price. Perfect for gigging musicians or students looking for a versatile and reliable ride without the premium price tag.

    Pros

    • Bright, clear stick definition for articulate playing.
    • Zildjian's A series alloy delivers a balanced, musical tone.
    • Well-latted construction ensures consistent wash and stick response.

    Cons

    • Lacks the complex overtones of higher-end Zildjian rides.
    • The medium weight might feel heavy for smaller players.
    81AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$426 now
    $426€379 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" A-Custom Ride · Zildjian

    85 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size20"

    The Zildjian A-Custom 20' ride is a fantastic choice for players seeking a clear, articulate ride cymbal with plenty of volume. It's especially well-suited for jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles where precise stick definition and a focused sound are crucial – not ideal if you’re looking for a super-washy, vintage vibe.

    Pros

    • Exceptional clarity and stick definition for precise playing.
    • Large volume reserve allows for dynamic range in any setting.
    • Brilliant finish enhances projection and visual appeal.

    Cons

    • Can be overly bright for drummers preferring darker, washier sounds.
    • Premium-priced, a significant investment for many drummers.
    81AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker81
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$472 now
    $472€419 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. 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 ↗

  4. 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 ↗

  5. 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 ↗

  6. 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 ↗

  7. 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 ↗

  8. 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
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$262 now
    $262€233 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Sabian 20" B8X Medium Ride Cymbal

    20" B8X Ride · Sabian

    34 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand80
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker70
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$269 now
    $269€239 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride

    Meinl

    24 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • 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
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup50
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$287 now
    $287€255 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 90 20" ride cymbals

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

  1. 11
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  2. 12
    Sabian 20" Stratus Ride Cymbal20" Stratus Ride · Sabian
    Index 71Stable
    71
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  3. 13
    Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal20" PST8 Reflector Medium Ride · Paiste · 2 finishes
    Index 70Stable
    70
    Stable$213€189
    $213€189Check ↗
  4. 14
    Paiste 20" 101 Brass Ride Cymbal20" 101 Ride · Paiste
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  5. 15
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  6. 16
    Zildjian 20" K Series Crash/Ride Cymbal20" A-Series Crash/Ride · Zildjian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  7. 17
    Zildjian 20" A Series Ping Ride Cymbal 1986 - 201220" A-Series Ping Ride · Zildjian
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  8. 18
    Istanbul Agop 20" Traditional Series Dark Ride Cymbal20" Traditional Dark Ride · Istanbul Agop
    Index 68Stable
    68
    Stable$494€439
    $494€439Check ↗
  9. 19
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal20" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl
    Index 67Stable
    67
    Stable$303€269
    $303€269Check ↗
  10. 20
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Ride20" Xist Ride Natural · Istanbul Agop
    Index 65Stable
    65
    Stable$354€315
    $354€315Check ↗
  11. 21
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$242€215
    $242€215Check ↗
  12. 22
    Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  13. 23
    Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  14. 24
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  15. 25
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Crash / Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl
    Index 64↓ 2.6%
    64
    ↓ 2.6%$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  16. 26
    Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 20" Ride · Paiste
    Index 63Stable
    63
    Stable$108€96
    $108€96Check ↗
  17. 27
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  18. 28
    Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$426€379
    $426€379Check ↗
  19. 29
    Paiste PST5 20" Rock Ride '14Paiste · 2 finishes
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$174€155
    $174€155Check ↗
  20. 30
    Meinl 20" HCS Practice Ride Cymbal20" Practice HCS Ride · Meinl
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$208€185
    $208€185Check ↗
  21. 31
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Bronze Ride Cymbal20" Ride IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$321€285
    $321€285Check ↗
  22. 32
    Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Brilliant Ride20" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop
    Index 60Stable
    60
    Stable$359€319
    $359€319Check ↗
  23. 33
    Meinl 20" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride20" Classics Extreme Ride · Meinl
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$291€259
    $291€259Check ↗
  24. 34
    Sabian 20" B8X Rock Ride Cymbal20" XSR Rock Ride · Sabian
    Index 59Stable
    59
    Stable$393€349
    $393€349Check ↗
  25. 35
    Paiste 20" RUDE Power Ride Cymbal20" Rude Power Ride · Paiste
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$415€369
    $415€369Check ↗
  26. 36
    Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Heavy RidePaiste
    Index 56↓ 2.7%
    56
    ↓ 2.7%$404€359
    $404€359Check ↗
  27. 37
    Millenium 20" Still Series Ride RedMillenium · 2 finishes
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$66€59
    $66€59Check ↗
  28. 38
    Millenium 20" Still Series Ride regularMillenium
    Index 55↓ 12.7%
    55
    ↓ 12.7%$78€69
    $78€69Check ↗
  29. 39
    Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan
    Index 55↓ 4.0%
    55
    ↓ 4.0%$269€239
    $269€239Check ↗
  30. 40
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal20" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  31. 41
    Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal20" Original Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$449€399
    $449€399Check ↗
  32. 42
    Zultan 20" Aja RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗
  33. 43
    Zultan 20" Aja Blaze RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$190€169
    $190€169Check ↗
  34. 44
    Zultan 20" Raw RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  35. 45
    Zultan 20" Raw Jazz RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$246€219
    $246€219Check ↗
  36. 46
    Paiste 20"900ColorSound HeavyRide PRPPaiste
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$250€222
    $250€222Check ↗
  37. 47
    Zultan 20" Rock Beat Medium RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  38. 48
    Zultan 20" F5 RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  39. 49
    Zultan 20" Rock Beat Heavy RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗
  40. 50
    Zultan 20" Raw Flat RideZultan
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$258€229
    $258€229Check ↗

20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers

Measured across all 95 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $280 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.

3
5
8
36
13
30
<$100$100–150$150–200$200–300$300–400$400+
Size20"

median of 95 models · 20"–20"

How to choose the best 20" ride cymbals

Sustain

This is the big one. A ride needs to ring, especially when you're trying to cut through a loud band. Expect shorter sustain on budget rides - it's a trade-off, but some models still surprise.

Wash vs. Stick Definition

A good ride balances a shimmering wash with clear stick articulation. Too much wash and it gets muddy; too much definition and it sounds brittle. Finding that sweet spot is key.

Tone/Timbre

What kind of voice are you after? Warm and dark? Bright and cutting? Budget rides often lean towards one extreme or the other, so knowing your sonic goal is vital.

Bell Response

The bell is what gives a ride its "stick" sound. A responsive bell provides a clear, defined attack, crucial for accents and patterns. Budget bells can sometimes be a little dull.

Trashiness/Finish

Let's be honest, budget cymbals aren't always pristine. Expect some inconsistencies in lathing and maybe a few blemishes. It's part of the deal, but excessive trashiness can detract from the overall sound.

Buying guide

So, you need a 20" ride but your wallet's looking a little thin? Been there. Finding a ride that cuts through a gig without costing you a month's rent is a challenge, but it's not impossible. I've spent years sifting through budget cymbals, and I've narrowed down 20 solid options that won't leave you wanting too much - and won't embarrass you on stage.

At this price point, you're making compromises. Don't expect the complexity or nuance of a Zildjian A Custom or Sabian AAX. Look for models that prioritize a usable wash and decent stick definition.

Used cymbals are your friend - you can often snag a higher-end ride for a steal, but be prepared for some wear and tear. Listen to sound samples online before you buy, and if possible, try them out in person.

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 95 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 B-stock cymbals worth it?

Absolutely. B-stock cymbals are returns or have minor cosmetic imperfections. The sound is identical, and you can save a good chunk of money. Just check the description carefully for any damage.

What's the deal with 'brassed' cymbals?

Some budget rides are made with a layer of brass bonded to a cheaper alloy. They tend to be brighter and less complex sounding. Not inherently bad, just know what you're getting.

Can a cheap ride really cut through a loud band?

It's tough, but not impossible. Look for rides marketed as 'rock' or 'heavy' rides - they're usually brighter and have more defined stick articulation. Proper technique helps too - hit the bell for more volume.

What's the difference between a crash/ride and a dedicated ride?

Crash/rides are designed to be both - they're often louder and have a more pronounced wash. Dedicated rides prioritize a more focused bell and stick definition. A dedicated ride is generally the better choice if that's your primary use.

Is it worth saving up for a better ride?

Always. A good ride is a lifetime investment. But a decent budget ride can get you by while you're saving, and it's better to play something than nothing at all.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 81Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal · $426€379
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