What sizes do kegs come in?

Answered by Vince Keith

There are several different sizes of kegs available, each with its own unique capacity. Let's explore the various sizes of kegs that you can choose from for your needs.

1. Quarter Barrel Keg (also known as Pony Keg):
– Capacity: 7.75 gallons or 29.33 liters.
– This is the smallest keg size commonly available in the market.
– It is ideal for small gatherings or parties where you have a limited number of guests.
– The quarter barrel keg contains approximately 82 12-ounce servings of beer.
– It is relatively easy to handle and can fit into most home kegerators or refrigerators.

2. Half Barrel Keg (also known as Full Size Keg):
– Capacity: 15.5 gallons or 58.67 liters.
– This is the standard keg size used by most commercial breweries.
– It is the most common keg size found in bars, restaurants, and larger events.
– The half barrel keg contains approximately 165 12-ounce servings of beer.
– It requires a larger kegerator or specialized cooling system due to its size and weight.

3. Sixth Barrel Keg (also known as Sixtel):
– Capacity: 5.16 gallons or 19.53 liters.
– This keg size is popular among craft breweries and homebrewers.
– It is often used for limited-edition or specialty beers.
– The sixth barrel keg contains approximately 55 12-ounce servings of beer.
– It is compact and can easily fit into smaller refrigerators or kegerators.

4. Cornelius Keg (also known as Corny Keg or Homebrew Keg):
– Capacity: 5 gallons or 18.93 liters.
– This keg size is commonly used by homebrewers or for small-scale events.
– It is easy to clean and maintain, making it a favorite among homebrewing enthusiasts.
– The Cornelius keg contains approximately 53 12-ounce servings of beer.
– It can be used with various dispensing systems, including CO2 or manual pumps.

5. Mini Keg:
– Capacity: Varies, typically around 1.32 gallons or 5 liters.
– Mini kegs are small, portable kegs that are often used for personal use or small gatherings.
– They are commonly found in supermarkets or liquor stores, pre-filled with popular brands of beer.
– The mini keg contains approximately 14 12-ounce servings of beer.
– It is convenient for outdoor activities or when you want to enjoy draft beer at home without investing in a kegerator.

It is worth noting that these are just a few of the most common keg sizes available. Some breweries may offer unique keg sizes specific to their brand or region. Additionally, keg sizes can vary slightly depending on the country or region you are in.

The size of keg you choose depends on the number of guests, the event or occasion, and your personal preferences. It's essential to consider factors such as storage space, transportation, and serving capacity when selecting the right keg size for your needs.