AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best 20" Ride Cymbals Under $500 2026
The top pick is Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal ($423). Meinl 20" HCS Ride gives you the most for the money at $117. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 90 models across 11 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 8, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal
20" A-Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
83 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
You get a 20-inch ride cymbal with a medium deep tone. The maker says it is an excellent all-round ride and suits all musical styles. That makes it a solid choice if you want one ride that can handle most of the music you play.
Pros
- Zildjian's A-Series line, a well-known cymbal brand name
- Regular / Traditional version, a familiar, classic style of ride
- Medium deep tone, good for steady ride patterns
80AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$423 now$423€379 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Zildjian 20" A Custom Medium Ride Cymbal
20" S Series Medium Ride · Zildjian
83 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
This is a 20-inch ride cymbal from Zildjian's S Series, made from B12 Bronze alloy with a brilliant finish. It has a bright, open sound and is turned on both sides, so it may suit you if you want an open-sounding ride cymbal.
Pros
- Made from B12 Bronze alloy, which is 88% copper and 12% tin
- Brilliant finish gives the cymbal a shiny look
- Turned on both sides for a worked cymbal surface
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Paiste 16" PST 7 Thin Crash Cymbal
PST7 20" Light Ride · Paiste
12 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
- Size20"
You get a traditional 20-inch light ride made from CuSn8 bronze and built in Switzerland. Its bell sound stays unobtrusive, so it fits well in purely acoustic music. It can also work as a crash/ride, which makes it a good pick if you want one cymbal that does a few jobs.
Pros
- Made of CuSn8 bronze, a traditional cymbal alloy
- Traditional sound and look
- Easy to use for purely acoustic styles
76AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$184 now$184€165 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
- Size20"
This Meinl 20" HCS ride comes from the HCS beginner series, so it is a good choice if you want solid value for your money. It has a defined stick attack and a clear bell sound, which helps when you play steady ride patterns. It suits you if you are starting out on drums and want a dependable ride without spending a lot.
Pros
- Part of Meinl's HCS beginner series, built to balance quality with a good price
- MS63 Mixture cymbal material gives this ride its character
- Defined stick attack helps your rhythm playing stand out
75AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$117 now$117€105 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Byzance Dual Crash / Ride
20" HCS Crash-Ride · Meinl
25 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
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$117 now$117€105 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$162 now$162€145 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" HCS Dark Ride · Meinl
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
- Size20"
If you are just starting out with drums, this 20-inch ride is a good pick. It is part of Meinl's Beginner series, so it is made to offer good value. You get a powerful ping from the bell and a controlled wash, which helps you keep a steady beat.
Pros
- Made from Meinl's MS63 blend, a bronze alloy that shapes the sound.
- The dark finish gives the cymbal a distinctive look.
- It delivers a powerful ping with a clear bell.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Oct 24Oct 24$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Pow. Ride · Meinl
26 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
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$260 now$260€233 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$285 now$285€255 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dark Ride
20" Classics Custom Med. Ride · Meinl
26 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.
72AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$289 now$289€259 at Thomann · in stockCheck 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.
- 11
Sabian 20" B8X Medium Ride Cymbal20" B8X Ride · Sabian71Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 12
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Ride · Paiste70Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
- 13
Sabian 20" Stratus Ride Cymbal20" Stratus Ride · Sabian70Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 14
Zildjian 20" A Series Ping Ride Cymbal 1986 - 201220" A-Series Ping Ride · Zildjian70Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 15
Paiste 20" 101 Brass Ride Cymbal20" 101 Ride · Paiste69Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
- 16
Paiste 20" PST 8 Reflector Medium Ride Cymbal20" PST8 Reflector Medium Ride · Paiste · 2 finishes69Stable$211€189$211€189Check ↗
- 17
Zildjian 20" K Series Crash/Ride Cymbal20" A-Series Crash/Ride · Zildjian69Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 18
Istanbul Agop 20" Traditional Series Dark Ride Cymbal20" Traditional Dark Ride · Istanbul Agop68Stable$490€439$490€439Check ↗
- 19
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Dual Ride Cymbal20" Classics Custom Dual Ride · Meinl67Stable$300€269$300€269Check ↗
- 20
Zildjian 20" L80 Low Volume Ride Cymbal20" Low Volume Ride · Zildjian66Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 21
Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Ride20" Xist Ride Natural · Istanbul Agop66Stable$352€315$352€315Check ↗
- 22
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Extra Thin Hammered Crash Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered C-R · Meinl64Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 23
Paiste 14" PST 3 Crash CymbalPST3 20" Ride · Paiste63Stable$107€96$107€96Check ↗
- 24
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Series Heavy Ride · Paiste63Stable$240€215$240€215Check ↗
- 25
Paiste 20" Color Sound 900 Series Heavy Ride Cymbal20" 900 Color Heavy Ride BK · Paiste63Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 26
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Extra Hammered Crash / Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy E.Hammered Ride · Meinl63↓ 2.6%$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 27
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Thin Ride · Meinl62Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 28
Meinl 20" Pure Alloy Custom Medium Thin Ride Cymbal20" Pure Alloy Custom Ride · Meinl62Stable$423€379$423€379Check ↗
- 29
Paiste PST5 20" Rock Ride '14Paiste · 2 finishes60Stable$173€155$173€155Check ↗
- 30
Meinl 20" HCS Practice Ride Cymbal20" Practice HCS Ride · Meinl60Stable$207€185$207€185Check ↗
- 31
Meinl 20" Classics Custom Extreme Metal Ride20" Classics Extreme Ride · Meinl60Stable$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 32
Istanbul Mehmet 20" IMC Bronze Ride Cymbal20" Ride IMC Natural · Istanbul Mehmet60Stable$318€285$318€285Check ↗
- 33
Istanbul Agop 20" Xist Brilliant Ride20" Xist Ride Brilliant · Istanbul Agop60Stable$356€319$356€319Check ↗
- 34
Sabian 20" B8X Rock Ride Cymbal20" XSR Rock Ride · Sabian59Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 35
Zultan 20" Alaris RideZultan57↓ 8.0%$256€229$256€229Check ↗
- 36
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Heavy RidePaiste57↓ 5.4%$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 37
Paiste 20" RUDE Power Ride Cymbal20" Rude Power Ride · Paiste57Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 38
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Nostalgia 50s Ride Cymbal20" Nostalgia 50's Ride · Istanbul Mehmet56↓ 7.0%$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 39
Millenium 20" Still Series Ride RedMillenium · 2 finishes55Stable$66€59$66€59Check ↗
- 40
Millenium 20" Still Series Ride regularMillenium55↓ 12.7%$77€69$77€69Check ↗
- 41
Zultan 20" Z-Series RideZultan55↓ 3.7%$289€259$289€259Check ↗
- 42
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Medium Ride Cymbal20" Medium Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 43
Istanbul Mehmet 20" Traditional Series Original Ride Cymbal20" Original Ride Traditional · Istanbul Mehmet55Stable$445€399$445€399Check ↗
- 44
Paiste 20"900ColorSound HeavyRide PRPPaiste54Stable$248€222$248€222Check ↗
- 45
Meinl 20" Class. Cust. Dark Heavy RiMeinl54Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
- 46
Meinl Pure Alloy 20" Medium RideMeinl54Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
- 47
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" Power RidePaiste54Stable$401€359$401€359Check ↗
- 48
Paiste 2002 Classic 20" RidePaiste54Stable$412€369$412€369Check ↗
- 49
Zultan 20" Aja Blaze RideZultan53Stable$189€169$189€169Check ↗
- 50
Zultan 20" Raw RideZultan53Stable$245€219$245€219Check ↗
20" Ride Cymbals by the numbers
Measured across all 95 models we track, not a sample.
Median $278 — half of all 20" ride cymbals here cost less.
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.
