Best 13 Inch Hi Hats for Drums: Top Picks for Every Player
Looking for 13 inch hi hats that deliver solid, expressive tone across genres? This guide compares five top options so beginners, casual players, and gigging drummers can choose confidently. Each pick offers distinct tonal character, durability, and playability to fit different styles and budgets. Read on to see which hi hat pair suits your kit and playing goals.
| Product | Brand | Why It Stands Out |
|---|---|---|
| HCS 13” Hihats | Meinl Cymbals | Strong beginner-to-intermediate upgrade with clear chick and adaptable tone |
| Planet Z 13″ Hi Hat Cymbals | Zildjian | Bright, responsive and versatile for practice and performance |
| 13″ S Mastersound HiHats | Zildjian | Fast, lively edge with balanced overall presence |
| Classics Custom Dark 13″ Hihats | Meinl Percussion | Professional dark tone with German engineering and durability |
| SABIAN 13″ SBR Hi-Hat Cymbals | Sabian | Clear closed sound and loud open projection at a budget-friendly level |
HCS 13” Hihats (Hi Hat) Cymbals for Drum Set
Brand: Meinl Cymbals. These 13″ hi-hats are a major upgrade from stock starter cymbals. They offer a more articulate chick when closed and a lower-pitched sizzle when open. The pair is designed for beginner to intermediate players who need dependable durability and a sound closer to real songs. Best for players who want a stable upgrade without a heavy voice commitment to a single genre.
Best for: Beginners upgrading their kit or players who want a durable, versatile pair that works across jazz and rock. Limitations: As a budget line, they may not deliver the full complexity of professional models.
Zildjian Planet Z 13″ Hi Hat Cymbals Pair
Brand: Zildjian. Planet Z Hi-Hats offer a wide range of sounds and respond precisely to playing technique. They are bright and highly versatile, making them a strong entry point for beginners while still satisfying practice and performance demands for intermediate players. Best for: Players seeking a bright, responsive hi-hat that covers multiple styles; choose this if you want an affordable, Zildjian-branded option.
Limitation: While versatile, they may not deliver the darker, more complex tone some players prefer from higher-end lines.
Zildjian 13″ S Mastersound HiHats – Pair
Brand: Zildjian. The hammered outer edge creates a lively, fast chick and balanced tonal presence, helping performers cut through a mix. Best for: Players who want quick response and a lively closed sound with a defined open tone. Caution: Mastersound models tend toward brighter cut; darker preferences should consider other lines.
Avedis Zildjian Company 13 inch I Series Hi-hat Cymbals
Brand: Zildjian. These hi-hats are made from B8 bronze and come as a pair, offering a traditional feel and reliable response. Best for: Players who want a straightforward, durable 13″ option with predictable tonal output. Limitation: B8 bronze can be crisper; may not deliver the darker warmth of lower-bronze blends.
Classics Custom Dark 13″ Hihats
Brand: Meinl Percussion. Made in Germany, Classics Custom Dark hi-hats use high-tech engineering for a consistent dark tone, powerful feel, and durability. Best for: Players pursuing a professional, dark voice with strong openness and projection. Caution: The darker tone may be less versatile for bright pop needs.
SABIAN 13″ SBR Hi-Hat Cymbals
Brand: Sabian. SBR Hi-Hats are tight and clean when closed and loud and full when open. They are positioned as a budget-friendly entry into cymbals with a solid brass-class sound. Best for: Beginners and casual players who want clear definition without high costs. Limitation: May not offer the same tonal complexity as more premium series.
13″ New Beat Top Hi Hat
Brand: Zildjian. Widely regarded as one of the most versatile hi-hat sets, it offers a broad all-purpose blend of stick and chick sounds. Best for: Players who want a balanced top and bottom combo suitable for many genres; choose this for compatibility with a wide range of drum styles.
Hi Hat Cymbals, High Hats Cymbal Pair, 13 inch Mini Symbol Set
Brand: ULUOBO. Designed for beginners, this 13″ hi-hat practice cymbal set uses a durable stainless steel alloy with thickened construction for durability and tone retention. Best for: Students and practice players who need affordable, sturdy practice cymbals. Caution: These are beginner-focused and may lack the tonal depth of mid-to-premium lines.
Buying Guide: Key Purchase Considerations
- Tone vs. durability: Do you prefer a brighter, more cut-through tone or a darker, more musical voice? Higher-end lines typically offer richer overtones, while budget options emphasize durability and clean sound.
- Playing level: Beginners often benefit from stable, predictable response, while intermediate and pro players may want a more nuanced feel and dynamic range.
- Pitch stability and response: Look for well-machined lathing and hammering to ensure consistent chick and open tones across hits.
- All-around versatility: If you play multiple genres, choose hi-hats that balance stick definition and chick across jazz, rock, and funk.
- Budget and upgrade path: Consider starting with a mid-range pair if you plan to grow, rather than stepping directly to premium lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What size are standard hi-hat cymbals? Answer: 13 inches is a common standard for many drum kits and is versatile for various genres.
- What should I look for in a beginner hi-hat? Answer: A reliable closed chick, balanced open sound, and durable construction for long practice sessions.
- Are brass hi-hats different from bronze or alloy hi-hats? Answer: Yes; different alloys affect brightness, response, and sustain, influencing overall tone.
- Is a “Mastersound” edge better for beginners? Answer: It can provide a quicker response and lively edge, but depends on your preferred feel and style.
- Should I buy two hi-hats from the same line? Answer: Yes, it helps ensure tonal consistency and blend with other cymbals in the set.
- Can I mix hi-hat brands? Answer: Mixing is possible, but it may affect balance between hats; many players prefer matching pairs for consistency.