10 Best Hi Hat Cymbals 2025 in the United States

The Avedis Zildjian Company A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals are a great choice for drummers looking for a sound that balances clarity and richness. With a size of 14 inches and made from bronze, these cymbals are designed for a full-bodied sound that stands out. The unique hammered grooves in the bottom cymbal help to vent air quickly, resulting in a fast and clear 'chick' sound, which is crucial for keeping time in various music genres, especially jazz and rock. Drummers will also appreciate the striking, brilliant finish that adds visual appeal to their setup.

These cymbals excel in performance, but their bold sound may overwhelm softer playing styles, potentially making them less ideal for quieter acoustic settings. Additionally, being part of the A Custom range, they can be on the pricier side, which may not fit all budgets. The 5-pound weight is relatively standard, but drummers who prefer lighter cymbals might find these a bit hefty.

The A Custom Mastersound Hi-Hat Cymbals are perfect for drummers who want a crisp and colorful sound and can handle a more prominent audio presence. They will shine in live performances and studio recordings alike but might not be the best fit for those seeking subtlety or have budget constraints.

The Avedis Zildjian Company K Custom Dark Hi-Hat Cymbals are a popular choice, particularly among drummers who prioritize color and articulation in their music. These cymbals are 14 inches in size and made from bronze, which contributes to their warm, full-bodied tone. Despite their relatively light weight of 1 pound, they deliver a clean stick sound and a fast, bright 'chick' when played, making them suitable for a variety of musical settings.

The crisp texture ensures that the hi-hat sound cuts through the rest of the band clearly, which can be advantageous during performances. However, as these cymbals are designed to add warmth and coloration, they might not be the best fit for someone looking for a purely bright and cutting sound.

Ideal for those who need a reliable hi-hat that can perform well across different genres, but may not be the best choice for absolute beginners due to their premium features and price point.

The Zildjian K Custom Hybrid Hi-Hat Cymbals measure 14.25 inches, slightly larger than standard 14-inch hi-hats, offering versatility in sound. Made from bronze, a common and reliable material for cymbals, they weigh about 1.88 pounds, providing a sturdy feel without being too heavy to play comfortably. Their unique finish—a mix of brilliant and traditional styles—creates a balance between brightness and warmth. This gives the sound a richer character with a slightly darker tone compared to typical hi-hats, thanks to the special hybrid hammering technique developed in collaboration with drummer Akira Jimbo.

Players will notice a warmer “chick” sound when closed and a fuller wash when played open, which suits genres needing both clarity and depth. The cymbals allow some flexibility for control or volume depending on size preference (13-1/4” or 14-1/4”), and this model’s larger size leans towards more projection. On the downside, the hybrid design and finish might not appeal to drummers seeking either very bright or extremely traditional sounds exclusively.

With a price point typically higher than beginner cymbals, this set is better suited to intermediate or advanced players looking for a distinctive, versatile hi-hat rather than someone just starting out. These hi-hats provide a great balance of warm and bright tones with solid build quality, making them ideal for drummers wanting expressive, controlled sound in a variety of musical styles.