When it comes to kegs, there are two main types that homebrewers commonly use: ball lock kegs and pin lock kegs. While both serve the same purpose of storing and dispensing beer, there are some notable differences between the two.
Size:
Both ball lock and pin lock kegs come in various sizes, ranging from 1.75 gallons to 10 gallons. However, when it comes to homebrewing, the most commonly used size is the 5-gallon keg. This size is perfect for small batches and is easier to handle and transport.
Shape:
One of the main visual differences between ball lock and pin lock kegs is their shape. Pin lock kegs are generally shorter and wider, while ball lock kegs are taller and skinnier. This difference in shape can affect how you store and stack your kegs, especially if you have limited space in your brewing area.
Connectors:
The most significant difference between ball lock and pin lock kegs lies in their connectors. These connectors are what allow you to attach the keg to your gas and liquid lines. Ball lock kegs use a system of ball bearings and disconnects, while pin lock kegs use a system of pins and disconnects.
The connectors on ball lock kegs are standardized, meaning that they are the same size and shape regardless of the brand or manufacturer. This makes it easier to find replacement parts or accessories for ball lock kegs. On the other hand, pin lock kegs do not have a standardized connector system, and the size and shape of the pins can vary between brands. This can make finding replacement parts a bit more challenging.
Gas and Liquid Posts:
Another difference between ball lock and pin lock kegs is the design of their gas and liquid posts. In ball lock kegs, the gas post has a small ring around it, while the liquid post has no ring. This makes it easy to identify which post is for gas and which is for liquid. In pin lock kegs, both the gas and liquid posts have small rings around them. This can sometimes cause confusion, especially if you're new to kegging.
Availability and Cost:
In terms of availability and cost, ball lock kegs are generally more widely available and easier to find than pin lock kegs. This is because ball lock kegs have become the industry standard for many commercial breweries, meaning that there is a larger market for ball lock kegs and related accessories. Additionally, due to their popularity, ball lock kegs tend to be slightly cheaper than pin lock kegs.
Personal Preferences:
Ultimately, the choice between ball lock and pin lock kegs comes down to personal preference. Some homebrewers prefer the shorter and wider shape of pin lock kegs, as they can be easier to clean and maintain. Others prefer the taller and skinnier shape of ball lock kegs, as they can be more space-efficient. Additionally, if you already have a kegging system in place, it may be more practical to stick with the same type of keg to ensure compatibility with your existing equipment.
While ball lock and pin lock kegs serve the same purpose of storing and dispensing beer, there are some notable differences between the two. These differences include size, shape, connectors, gas and liquid posts, availability, and cost. Ultimately, the choice between ball lock and pin lock kegs comes down to personal preference and compatibility with your existing equipment.