Now that you are ready to begin your drumming journey, the first thing you will need is a good drum set.
There are tons of options on the market today, some of which come complete with cymbals. But these don’t sound very well.
Therefore, you will need to but a new set of cymbals that will make you sound like a professional.
Cymbals vary in size and purpose. Hence, you need to find the best ones, or a combination of sounds you can be proud of, to play the music you want.
Note, however, that cymbals are not very cheap. Some of the top products cost hundreds of dollars, which is not worth considering if you are a beginner.
In this guide, I will be reviewing some of the best budget cymbals you can find out there. Cheap does not always mean poor quality, as you will find out by thecymbals
I have come across this question so many times, ‘what are cymbals?’
It may seem like an easy one, but the answers I have reviewed tell me that many people don’t know much about cymbals. This true, especially for beginners.
When they got to buy, they only ask for “cymbals,” without specifically understanding what they need. Hence, it becomes hard for them to achieve their goals or find something that satisfies their needs.
The best way to build your cymbal set and complete your drum kit is to know the options you have.
Cymbals are percussion instruments that have been used for many years. Initially, they were used in religious functions.
The first cymbals date to as early as 500BC, in China and other parts of Asia. Their main function in music started during the renaissance period.
Earlier use of cymbals for drums is linked to their use by army marching bands. Later, they became part of many bands.
Today, cymbals are one of the most important components of any drum set.
Cymbals are divided into four main types depending on what they are used for.
The hi-hat
This one of the main types of cymbals. It is made up of a pair of cymbals mounted on a tension rod and inverted to each other. Hi-hats are played closed or open with the foot. They are mainly for keeping time.
The ride
One of the main duties of a drummer is keeping time, and the ride is used for this purpose. Many drummers consider it one of the greatest cymbals due to the reputation they have for magnifying a drummer’s voice.
Crash
The crash serves as the exclamation mark in the drum. As the name suggests, they give out a loud crash sound whenever they are struck. The sound of a crash defines classic rock music.
Effects cymbals
Any other type of cymbal, like china and the bell, can be categorized as effects. For instance, a china is a type accent capable of producing a highly bright crash. When you turn them upside down, they look like a typical cymbal. The bell is a smaller cymbal used for special effects too.
Now that you know the main types of cymbals, it should be easy to but the right one. My best advice is to avoid buying cymbals in packs as much as possible because some of the packs are just accessories.
Not that packs are bad; in fact, most of what I will review here come in packs, but they are not the best.
Buying one cymbal at a time allows you to build an ideal set. You can never go wrong on what you have constructed from the ground. Besides, it’s all about getting the best sounds.
Here are the best affordable cymbals built for beginners.
20 Best Affordable Cymbals reviewed
Sabian SBR2012 SBR Pure Brass 20-inch Ride Cymbal
There are very few cymbal brands that are as good as Sabian. This wonderful ride cymbal is designed for beginners.
Sabian is an offshoot of Zildjian, but it is more versatile. They bring high-quality cymbals to the lower market.
This is one of the cheapest, yet good quality cymbal. If you are buying for the first time, the SBR2012 would be a great choice.
It features strong construction, from first-class brass, and is heavier than other models. It also comes with a strong sound, bright response, and fast decay for wash riding.
It is a perfect choice for a full-sounding ride. The deep hammering and pinpoint lathing puts on another level of quality.
Meinl Cymbals HCS14C 14-inch HCS Brass Crash Cymbal
Meinl is a reputable brand for a cymbal. The German-based manufacturer makes only the best quality products.
This particular cymbal is a great option for shimmering and fast accents. It may be low on price, but that should not make you think they are any cheap in quality. It may even be the best you can ever get at this price range.
Its bright response and warm sustain will make you feel proud you invested in it. It is versatile enough to work for any music style.
Get the warm crash sound accompanied with a short sustain. In terms of sound quality, this piece is true without a match at this price range.
Meinl Cymbals HCS1341 Cymbals Pack
If you are looking for a full pack, consider this Meinl cymbal set box. It comes with a 14-inch crash, a pair of 13-inch hi-hats, a 10-inch splash, and a pair of drumsticks. As if that is not enough, three lessons are included to make you learn with ease.
In terms of construction quality, these cymbals are top-level. They are constructed from a durable brass allow of good quality and carefully crafted in Germany.
You are sure to enjoy the matchless sound quality with very responsive touch. Even better, the set features resounding and bright musicality with a great tone.
Meinl Cymbals HCS141620 Cymbal Set
This another complete set offered by Meinl. The box comes as an extended option for those who want to enjoy a complete and enhanced performance.
In the box, you get a pair of 14-inch hi-hats, a 16-inch crash, and a 20-inch ride cymbal, plus a complimentary 10-inch splash. It, therefore, comes with everything you need to start playing.
The entire HCS line of cymbals is a more economical and pleasant option for a great musical experience. This set is well built for more responsiveness and high-end sound quality.
They feature first-class brass alloy, which makes strong and long-lasting. Besides, you get a two-year warranty from the manufacturer.
Zildjian ZBT Starter Set
If you have been in the drumming industry for some time not, you probably know who Zildjian is as a cymbal brand. Here is one of their best products, made for a passionate drummer.
It is a wonderful option to start with. Easy playability, first-rate construction, a beautiful design, and a long-lasting structure are some of the features that define this product.
The set comes with an 18-inch crash-ride, a 14-inch crash, and a pair of 13-inch hi-hats. The crash ride is quite versatile, featuring delightful crash qualities and stick definition.
Apart from this, the crash has a very bright sound and very reliable. The chick sound of the hi-hats will work for any music genre. This one of the reasons it has stayed at the top.
Zildjian ZBT 14-inch Crash Cymbals
The whole ZBT line from Zildjian is dedicated to beginners. This crash is for those who need a strong and high-quality, beautifully sounding cymbal at a low price. Besides, it appropriate for those who are just starting.
Zildjian cymbals are designed to last long, and this one of not different. Besides the classy outlook, it comes at an attention-grabbing design.
This 14-inch crash also comes with every easy playability, fast response, and incredible sonic qualities. You will never regret adding it to your drum kit.
Meinl Cymbals HCS-FX HXS Cymbals Box set Effects cymbals
Go for the HCS Cymbal set from Meinl and enjoy a high-end functionality. The company has a proven reputation for delivering high-end products for a long time. This cymbal set is a wonderful choice for those who need affordability and quality.
The price may be low, but don’t let this fool you to think it’s any less in quality. The set contains a 10-inch splash and 12-inch china.
Both cymbals are lightweight and come with a cymbal stacker for convenience.
These brass cymbals will add nice ascents to your performance. The splash offers a quick cutting and bright response that will leave you satisfied.
Sabian 16-inch SBR Crash
Here is another product from Sabian that is no joke. It is a crash cymbal that will deliver a superior sound for you, with an efficient response. All of these features come at a very low price.
It is made from fine brass, making it sturdier and longer-lasting than other products in the same price range. The 16-inch cymbal is smartly priced for beginners.
Besides, it is a loud punch model designed for beginners and any other level of players. For starters, this instrument is all you need for high-end performance.
Meinl Cymbals CC12TRS-B Classics Custom 12-Inch Brilliant Trash Splash
Every product that Meinl brings on the market is dedicated to high-end performance. They have been doing so for more than 25 years and have a reputation for quality.
This is a classic trash splash that is highly preferred. Its beautiful design reveals its construction with special attention to detail.
For those who may need a quick, trashy effect, this 12-inch cymbals might be all you need. It’s made from a B10 alloy that gives out loud and clear sound. Its bright and short sustain is augmented by the well-designed holes that give it a beautiful end.
Zildjian L80 Low Volume 20-inch Ride
One of the biggest challenges that beginners face is finding a good way to practice and grow their skills. Playing drums can get really loud, and you don’t want to disturb your neighbor, especially with the sharp cymbals.
This low volume ride from Zildjian is a perfect solution for you. It comes beautifully crafted, with unbeatable design.
However, it is a bit more costly than the other products on this list. In terms of quality, this low-sounding cymbal has been admired by even professional drummers. This means you can rely on it to deliver the sound you need.
Practice at home or play in quiet gigs or lesson rooms with any pressure. Besides, the cymbal is very light, which makes it easy to transport.
This model comes with a very distinctive feature, belonging to the low-volume line. Additionally, it has a very nice, which is more than what you could expect at this price range.
Glarry 18-inch Copper Alloy Ride for Drums set
Glarry may not be the most famous manufacturers, but their products are really good. Those who want low-priced but good quality cymbals will find this product a great addition to their drums set.
Whether you are just a beginner or a pro, this cymbal has something for you. Its tinkling sound is not only pleasant to the drummer but the audience as well.
It is a bit heavier than other models, which makes it perfect for rock and other heavy genres. Its construction gives it the appearance of a top-end cymbal.
Everything on this cymbal, from the sublime structure to the simple design, speaks of quality. Even better, it features a metallic luster that puts it on the list of the best cymbals on the market.
Forainean 14-inch Crash Cymbal
Here is another brand that is not very popular, yet, offers good quality beginner cymbals. This crash cymbal comes with a beautiful design with excellent sound at a very low price.
Smooth to play on, explosive sound, and good weight is all you may want is a good cymbal. Hence, this piece is a very good option for those who need high-quality products at low prices.
It is made from high-quality brass, and hence, long-lasting. As if that is not enough, you will get explosive and bright sounds with a unique tone.
Paiste PST 3 18-inch Ride Crash
How better to give you versatility, quality, and affordability than with Paiste? This is a big name in the industry, having been a major cymbal maker for many years.
The ride reviewed here is one of the most popular ride crash instruments on the market. It comes with a simple structure and decent design, measuring 18-inches.
It is a bit heavier, though, which makes it perfect for rock and metal. Students and casual hobbyists will find this model very useful.
Its versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of music genres. It will do a great job for any setting.
Sabian 10-inch AAX Splash Cymbal
Sabian has proven time and again to be a reputable brand overall. Hence, you and be sure to get something great from this 10-inch splash.
It covers both the tonality and affordability needs of every drummer. It is hand-made by reputable cymbal builders to deliver pure projection and shimmering sounds.
Zildjian Gen16 Buffed Bronze 16-inch Crash Cymbal
For those who are familiar with Zildjian, you know they have everything good in the world of cymbals. This Gen16 buffed crash cymbal is no different. Whether it is the sonic character you need or good looks, you have them all in this single product.
It has a natural design that gives a great acoustic feel. It delivers low volume sounds with a warm, rich tone. It’s more suitable for low-volume playing settings.
Stagg BM-B6L 6-Inch Black Metal Bell Light
Stagg is not a very popular name in the music world. However, their cymbal is very good in quality. They are simple looking instruments that you can purchase at a very low price.
This metal bell cymbal measures 6 by 6 by 2 inches and weighs 12 ounces. It is black, with a solid build.
And the best part is, the cymbal is made from B20 alloy, which is found in higher products. It will, therefore, make your performance look expensive.
Sabian 11-inch AAX AAX-Plosion Splas
Sabian presents another one of their best products, as they have been doing since 1981. This is one of their most affordable models, yet, high-quality.
The splash cymbal comes with a very light, yet attractive look. It is designed with a dynamic focus that delivers and accurate response.
Ammoon 12/14/16/18/20-inch Brass Alloy Crash Ride Hi-hat cymbals
You may not know a lot about Ammoon, but it’s one of the best cymbal makers around. This hi-hat stands as one of their best products.
It comes with a robust construction designed to meet all your needs. Brass alloy is a popular metal for affordable cymbals. Its glowing metal luster increases its beauty.
Zildjian A Series 10-inch Splash
This 10-inch splash cymbal is a first-rate product from Zildjian. It is one of the most recommended products, delivering an exciting construction quality.
The traditional finish and the great sound you get from this instrument all tell of high-quality. It will deliver the sound.
Wuhan WU1410414 14-Inch Lion China Cymbal
This china cymbal from Wuhan is a beautiful instrument you should have in your collection. It measures 16-inches and weighs 1.45 pounds. It’s a bit heavier than other models but better in sound.
B20 alloy in this cymbal puts in on the list of top products. Besides, the full, dark, trashy sound the give does not disappoint.
Final thought
And there you have it, the best affordable cymbals you can get. There are many other cymbals, but these 20 bare the most popular.
