Crash Cymbal Size Guide
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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Crash cymbal size is the diameter of the cymbal, measured in inches across the widest point. Compare the crash diameter with the hi-hats and ride in the same set to see how it fits the kit.
What the diameter number on a crash means
The number on a crash is its diameter in inches, measured straight across the cymbal from one edge to the other. A 14-inch crash is smaller across than a 16-inch crash, and the number on the box or listing names that diameter. Read the diameter first when you compare two crashes, since the name of the line or the set does not tell you the size.
Match the crash to the rest of the kit
Look at the hi-hats and ride listed with the crash. The first set here pairs a 14-inch crash with 13-inch hi-hats and a 10-inch splash, while the second and third sets pair a 16-inch crash with 14-inch hi-hats and a 20-inch ride.
Measure a crash you already own
Lay the cymbal face down on a flat surface and measure straight across the widest point with a tape, edge to edge, in inches. Do not measure across the bell or along a curve. Compare that number with the diameter in the listing before you buy a second crash, so the new cymbal matches the size you already play.
Check the cymbal pack before you buy
A cymbal pack lists each cymbal and its size, so read the full list instead of the headline size. The packs here list hi-hats, crash, ride and splash sizes in one place, and the single crash lists its own 16-inch diameter. Make sure the pack includes the crash size you want, since a pack built around a 14-inch crash does not include a 16-inch one.
Read the weight name beside the size
Listings name the weight of a crash beside its size, such as Medium Thin on the 16-inch Zildjian crash here. The weight name describes the thickness of the cymbal and sits next to the diameter in the listing. Read both figures together, since two crashes with the same diameter can carry different weight names.
What you need
Meinl Cymbals HCS Box Set Cymbals
A cymbal pack with a 14-inch crash, 13-inch hi-hats and a 10-inch splash, plus a pair of 5A drumsticks and online lessons.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- 2-year warranty stated
Meinl Cymbal Set Box Pack with 14”
A cymbal pack with a 16-inch crash, 14-inch hi-hats, a 20-inch ride and a 10-inch splash, made in Germany with a 2-year warranty.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- 2-year warranty stated
SABIAN SBR Cymbal Set
A cymbal pack with a 16-inch crash, 14-inch hats, a 20-inch ride and a free 10-inch splash, with a 90-day Drumeo trial included.
- Cymbal pack
- Alloy: Brass
- Two-year warranty stated
Zildjian A0230 16" A Medium Thin Crash
A single 16-inch Medium Thin crash in bronze, listed for gigging and studio drummers and pairing well alongside hi-hats and rides.
- Alloy: Bronze
- 1-year warranty stated
These come from our ranked list Best Cymbals, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
What size crash cymbal should a starter set include?
The starter sets here include a 14-inch crash in one set and a 16-inch crash in the others, each with 13-inch or 14-inch hi-hats and a 10-inch splash. Pick the set whose listed crash diameter matches the size you want to play.
How do I measure a crash cymbal?
Measure straight across the widest point of the cymbal, edge to edge, in inches, with the cymbal flat. The result is the diameter, and it should match the size printed in the listing.
Does a cymbal pack list every cymbal size?
Yes. The packs here list hi-hats, crash, ride and splash sizes, such as 14-inch hi-hats with a 16-inch crash and a 20-inch ride. Read the full list so you know each diameter before you buy.
What does Medium Thin mean on a crash cymbal?
Medium Thin is the weight name on the 16-inch Zildjian crash here, listed beside its diameter. The weight name describes the thickness of the cymbal, so read it together with the size when you compare listings.
Ranked cymbals lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.