Best Hi-Hats for Metal in 2026 | MetalForge Expert Guide
Discover the best hi-hats for metal drumming. Expert recommendations covering Zildjian, Meinl, Paiste, and Sabian — the exact hi-hats used by Lars Ulrich, Joey Jordison, Mike Mangini, and Matt Greiner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hi-hats do metal drummers use?
Most professional metal drummers use medium-heavy 14" hi-hats from Zildjian, Meinl, or Paiste. Lars Ulrich of Metallica uses Zildjian A Custom hi-hats. Mike Mangini of Dream Theater uses Meinl Byzance. Mikkey Dee of Motörhead used Paiste 2002 Sound Edge. The common thread: cymbals that cut through dense guitar mixes with a focused, articulate attack.
What size hi-hats are best for metal?
14" hi-hats are the standard for metal drumming — they offer the best balance of projection, response, and versatility. 13" hi-hats are tighter and faster, popular in technical and extreme metal where quick, precise patterns demand fast response. 15" hi-hats provide maximum volume and low-end body, occasionally used in doom and traditional heavy metal.
Are heavier hi-hats better for metal?
Generally yes. Heavier hi-hats project more volume, produce a tighter chick, and cut through dense guitar mixes more effectively than lighter models. Medium-heavy hi-hats are the sweet spot — heavy enough to project but not so stiff that stick response suffers. Pure heavy models like the Zildjian A Custom Heavy are used by some drummers who need maximum projection in loud live settings.
What is a Sound Edge hi-hat?
A Sound Edge hi-hat has a wavy, crimped bottom cymbal edge rather than a flat edge. When the hi-hats close, this creates a faster air release and a distinctive, tighter 'chick' sound. Paiste pioneered Sound Edge design on the 2002 series, and it became popular in metal drumming for its tight, fast, articulate chick quality. If you want a very defined, crisp hi-hat closure, Sound Edge is worth trying.
Zildjian vs Meinl hi-hats for metal — which is better?
Zildjian A Custom is brighter, more cutting, and more immediately aggressive — better for most metal styles where the hi-hat needs to cut through. Meinl Byzance is darker, warmer, and more complex — better for progressive and technical metal where the hi-hat needs to do more musically. Most metal drummers default to Zildjian for live work and may use Meinl for studio or more nuanced styles.