Best 22" China Cymbals 2026
So, you're looking for a 22" China? Smart move. It's a sweet spot - big enough to get that wash and shimmer, but still manageable on stage and doesn't completely swallow your kit in a smaller room. Finding the right one can be tricky, though; a lot of 'China' cymbals out there just sound like poorly-laced crashes. Let's break down what to look for so you can get a cymbal that actually inspires something.
Last updated: April 29, 2026 • Next update: May 6, 2026
Zildjian 22" Swish Knocker with Rivets
- • The 20 rivets create a complex wash and shimmering overtones.
- • B20 bronze alloy delivers a dark, full-bodied, powerful response.
- • The aggressive curve provides a unique, instantly recognizable 'knocker' sound.
- • Solid construction; the rivets are securely fastened and well-finished.
- • The aggressive sound might clash with more subtle or delicate musical styles.
- • Its unique character limits versatility compared to a standard China cymbal.
- • The rivet design can occasionally catch sticks, slightly impacting playability.
Sabian 21" AA Holy China
- • Brilliant finish provides exceptional visual stage presence.
- • Unique profile yields a complex, shimmering wash of sound.
- • Large, untreated bell delivers a powerfully distinctive China character.
- • Sabian’s HH alloy construction offers durability and a refined tone.
- • The higher pitch might not suit all musical genres, limiting versatility.
- • Its complex voicing can be challenging to blend in dense, layered arrangements.
- • The brilliant finish is prone to finger smudging and requires more cleaning.
Meinl 22" Byzance Foundry Reserve CH
- • Exceptional dark, nuanced wash ideal for complex rhythmic textures.
- • Hand-hammering creates unique sonic character and responsiveness.
- • B20 bronze construction provides a warm, full, and resonant tone.
- • Four rivets add a controlled sizzle without overwhelming the overall sound.
- • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many drummers.
- • The darker tone might be too subdued for players needing bright, cutting sounds.
- • Large size (22") can be unwieldy for smaller players or limited stage setups.
Thomann China Cymbal 60
- • Large 24in size delivers a substantial wash and dramatic flair
- • Handmade construction offers a degree of variation and character
- • B20 bronze alloy provides a warm, full-bodied tone
- • Reasonably priced for a cymbal of this size and construction
- • Wuhan-made cymbals can exhibit inconsistencies in lathing and bell definition
- • The finish is basic, lacking the complexity of higher-end models
- • May be too loud and overwhelming for quieter, more nuanced playing styles
Thomann China Cymbal 55
- • Large 22 in diameter delivers a substantial, swirling wash of sound.
- • Handmade in Wuhan ensures a degree of craftsmanship and tonal complexity.
- • Beryllium bronze alloy provides a warm, dark tone with good sustain.
- • Affordable price point makes a large china cymbal accessible to more drummers.
- • Wuhan-made cymbals can exhibit inconsistencies in lathing and hammering.
- • The heavier weight (around 2.2 lbs) might be tiring for extended play.
- • Finish lacks the refinement of higher-end, hand-hammered cymbals.
Thomann China Cymbal 70
- • Large 28 in size delivers a substantial, swishing sound.
- • Handmade construction shows improved hammering and tonal complexity.
- • B20 bronze alloy provides a warm, full-bodied wash with good sustain.
- • Relatively affordable for a large, hand-hammered China cymbal.
- • Wuhan-made cymbals can exhibit inconsistent lathing and finish.
- • The large size makes it less versatile for quieter musical styles.
- • May require significant playing in to fully develop its tonal character.
How to Choose the Best 22" China Cymbals
Wash vs. Stick Definition
A good 22" China shouldn't be a blurry wash. You want some stick definition - a clear attack that cuts through, even when you're playing with a band. Too much wash, and it's just a splash; not enough definition, and it's a choked crash.
Harmonic Content
Listen for complexity. Cheap cymbals tend to be thin and brittle, with a harsh, ice-picky high-end. A good China will have a fuller harmonic spectrum - some warmth in the midrange, a touch of low-end thump, and a shimmering high end that isn't painful.
Sustain & Decay
The sustain should be long enough to create a wash, but not so long that it muddies up your overall drum sound. A clean decay is also crucial; you don't want it to ring on forever, creating unwanted frequencies in the mix.
Loudness & Projection
This is critical for gigging. A 22" China needs to be able to cut through a loud band without cracking or sounding thin. Think about the headroom you need for the style of music you play.
Trashiness/Character
China cymbals are supposed to be a little rough around the edges. But there's a difference between intentional character and just being poorly made. The best ones have a controlled rawness - a dark, smoky quality that adds vibe without sounding like a tin can.
Buying Guide
Don't be swayed by flashy marketing. A lot of cheaper 22" China cymbals will compensate for lack of quality with excessive hammering or lathing, trying to force a 'sound' that isn't naturally there. It's often a trade-off: you'll get a cheaper price, but you'll sacrifice harmonic richness and sustain. Spending a bit more on a well-made cymbal from a reputable brand is almost always worth it; you'll notice the difference in articulation and overall feel immediately.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at specs here. We've spent countless hours playing these cymbals - in rehearsal rooms, on stage, and in studios - comparing them head-to-head. We're listening for that feel, that articulation, and how they cut through the mix, not just a sheet of numbers. Our evaluations are based on real-world performance, not marketing hype.
