The 10 Best Pressurized Growlers
This wiki has been updated 22 times since it was first published in October of 2019. Flat beer can ruin a barbecue, party, or football game, but there's no need to suffer through subpar suds. The growler kegs on this list ensure a fresh, bubbly taste, anytime, anywhere. With so many quality options, you can find one that's the exact size you require, whether you're a home brewer hosting a tasting event or simply a craft beer snob looking for something to take on a camping trip. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. NutriChef Mini Keg
2. GrowlerWerks uKeg
3. Spotted Dog Craft Tower
Editor's Notes
December 17, 2020:
Size is a key factor in these pressurized growlers. Generally, you're looking at either 64 or 128 ounces. For sheer capacity, 128 ounces is better and won't cost you a ton more. The NutriChef Mini Keg, a clear top choice that's stainless steel, has a regulator and hexagonal cap, and keeps beer cold, is 128 ounces, as are the Bacoeng for Home Brew, Spotted Dog Dispenser, and versions of the GrowlerWerks Go and GrowlerWerks uKeg.
Smaller options are best for those who want to fill up at a local craft brewery every week and store the growler in the fridge. For storage, there are certain features that may sway your decision. The Spotted Dog Craft Tower is short and the Kakaako Brewing Co Insulated is thin, while the NutriChef Black Matte offers the ability to remove the regulator so it can be more compact. There are also several units with handles: the Kakaako Brewing Co Insulated, GrowlerWerks Go, TrailKeg Half Gallon, and GrowlerWerks uKeg.
Overall, just keep in mind that you will have to supply CO2 cartridges for these, so how easily you can obtain the correct size and how good you think you'll be at installing them could be a big factor. If you screw up installing a CO2 cartridge on a 128-ounce growler, you're out a lot more beer than if you mess up on a 64-ounce option, so for some people, small will be better.
November 01, 2019:
Before discussing our top picks, we feel it's important to note that the laws regarding growler filling, labeling, and so on vary from state to state in the U.S., so if you're planning on picking up some beer from your favorite brewery, you'll want to take a look at local regulations. You may be restricted to glass options only, for instance, or required to label your vessel with a government warning.
With that said, the TrailKeg Half Gallon and GrowlerWerks uKeg are both fine options, although the latter is perhaps slightly more finicky to use (but more lavishly styled). The former arrives with two CO2 cartridges, however, which is a nice touch. We also selected the popular Nutrichef Mini Keg, although it's somewhat frustrating that if you want the "included" insulating sleeve, you have to jump through a few hoops — it doesn't actually arrive in the box. Finally, we decided to include one add-on tap, the Spotted Dog Company Tap Dispenser System. It works with many standard, non-pressurized glass beer growlers, so if you already have one (or three or six), you'll be good to go. That is, after you buy a CO2 cartridge, as they aren't included.
Special Honors
iKegger Mini Keg Package The iKegger Mini Keg Package is customizable to fit your needs, with various capacities and taps available for those who demand the perfect fit. There's even a nitro tap option available for making your own nitro coffee at home. ikegger.com
Craft Master CO2 It takes just one look at the Craft Master CO2 to see what's different about it, from its unique shape to its sight glass that lets you see exactly how much is left inside. It's got a solid brass tap and all the features you'd expect from a top model. Plus, it'll look exquisite on your home bar. craftmastergrowlers.com
4. TrailKeg Half Gallon
5. TMCraft Updated
6. Kakaako Brewing Co Insulated
7. GrowlerWerks Go
8. NutriChef Black Matte
9. Bacoeng for Home Brew
10. Spotted Dog Dispenser
Gregg Parker is a writer and puppy enthusiast who divides his time between Los Angeles and the rest of the world. A graduate of the University of Southern California, his eclectic career has involved positions in education, health care, entertainment, nonprofit fundraising, technology, and literature. A points and miles expert, he's well-versed in all topics related to travel, including luggage and travel accessories. Other areas of expertise include pet care products, teaching resources, kitchen appliances, and anything related to coffee or barbecue.