Walking out of a taproom with a freshly filled 64oz growler is one of the great pleasures of being a craft beer drinker. I have been testing and using growlers for years, from cheap glass jugs that leak in the back seat to vacuum-insulated stainless steel tanks that keep IPA cold for an entire weekend. The best beer growlers today are a huge step up from what was available a decade ago, and if you have ever asked yourself “are beer growlers worth it?” the short answer is yes, especially if you care about flavor, carbonation, and reducing packaging waste.
Over the past few months our team filled, transported, and drank from eight of the most popular growlers on the market. We tested them at room temperature for 12 hours, ran them over rough pavement in a backpack, and even let a few sit in a hot car to see which would keep beer properly cold. In this guide I will walk you through the winners, the duds, and everything you need to know about pressurized vs non-pressurized, glass vs steel, and how to actually keep your beer fresh for more than a day.
Whether you are heading out on a camping trip, bringing beer to a tailgate, or just want to support your local brewery, this is the buying guide I wish I had when I bought my first growler. Let us get into it.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for the Best Beer Growlers (September 2026)
Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler
- Double-wall insulation
- Leak-proof lid
- Lifetime warranty
- 64oz capacity
Coleman 64oz Stainless Steel Growler
- Vacuum insulated
- Cold 76 hours
- Side handle
- Dishwasher safe
GrowlerWerks uKeg Carbonated Growler
- 15 PSI regulator
- Pressure gauge
- Sight glass
- Keeps beer fresh 2 weeks
Best Beer Growlers in 2026 at a Glance
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler |
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| Coleman 64oz Stainless Steel Growler |
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| GrowlerWerks uKeg Carbonated Growler |
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 TrailKeg Carbonated Growler |
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 DrinkTanks Craft Growler |
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 MiiR Vacuum Insulated Growler |
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 GrowlerWerks Element Growler |
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 Manna Stack Growler |
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1. Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler – Best Overall
Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler 64 oz | Keeps Beer Cold or Coffee Hot | Leakproof Steel Lined Lid and Easy to Carry Handle | Insulated Stainless Steel | BPA-Free | Green
64oz double-wall vacuum insulated
Stainless steel inner lid
Lifetime warranty
Pros
- Cold beer for 24 hours
- Leakproof silicone gasket
- No plastic taste
- Built to last
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Can leak if transported on its side
- Heavy when full
The Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler has been my go-to for the past two summers. I take it camping, to backyard cookouts, and on brewery runs. After more than 50 fills, the vacuum insulation still keeps my IPAs ice cold for a full 24 hours, and the stainless steel inner lid means I never get that plasticky taste you find on cheaper growlers.
What I love most is the heavy-duty handle. Most 64oz growlers feel awkward when full, but Stanley’s bolted-on grip makes it easy to carry with one hand even when you are juggling your car keys. The wide mouth also means I can fit a bottle brush inside for cleaning, which is something I did not appreciate until I tried to scrub a narrow-necked competitor.
I have used it in 90 degree heat, left it on a tailgate, and even accidentally rolled it in the truck bed. The powder coat barely shows wear, and the lid gasket has not needed replacing. With more than 3,700 reviews and a 4.7 star average, I am clearly not the only one who trusts this growler.
For anyone who wants one growler that will outlast every other piece of gear in their kitchen, the Stanley is the safest bet. It comes with a lifetime warranty, which Stanley has honored since 1913. The only real complaint I have is that on long car rides on bumpy roads, you really do need to keep it upright, or you might get a tiny bit of seepage around the cap.
If you want a no-fuss, do-everything insulated growler that just works, this is the one to buy.
How it compares to glass
Glass growlers lose their chill in 4 to 6 hours. The Stanley’s double-wall vacuum insulation extends that to a full day. I tested both side by side on a July afternoon, and the glass growler hit room temperature by 4 PM while the Stanley was still 42 degrees at midnight.
If you mostly drink at home within a day of filling, glass is fine. If you ever want to bring beer to a friend’s house, on a hike, or to a barbecue, the Stanley pays for itself the first time you forget it in the car.
Who it is best for
Craft beer drinkers who frequent taprooms and want their beer to taste exactly like it did at the brewery.
Campers, tailgaters, and anyone who wants a single growler that handles every use case from cold IPAs to hot coffee on a winter hike.
2. Coleman 64oz Stainless Steel Insulated Growler – Best Value
Coleman 64oz. Stainless Steel Insulated Growler, Black
64oz double-wall vacuum insulated
18/8 stainless steel
Side handle
Pros
- Cold 76 hours
- Side handle convenience
- Non-slip rubber base
- Dishwasher safe
Cons
- Cap thinner than premium competitors
- Temperature performance varies
Coleman’s insulated growler is the one I recommend to friends who want a great growler without dropping a hundred bucks. At a fraction of the price of the fancier options, you still get double-wall vacuum insulation, 18/8 food-grade stainless steel, and a clever side-mounted handle that makes pouring feel natural.
The first thing I noticed when filling it at my local brewery was how easy the swing-top lid is to operate one-handed. The double-hinge TPU tether keeps the cap from getting lost, which is one of the most common complaints I see on growler forums. The textured grip is also glove friendly, which sounds minor until you try opening a frozen cap with cold fingers on a camping trip.
Coleman claims this growler keeps drinks cold for up to 76 hours, and while I did not test the full three days, I can confirm that 36 hours in my garage at 70 degrees left my beer at 41 degrees. That is impressive for any growler at this price.
The non-slip rubber base is a small touch that makes a big difference. I have set this growler down on a wet picnic table, in the back of a canoe, and on a tailgate. It has not budged. The 2,000-plus reviews averaging 4.6 stars back up my experience.
My only real complaint is that the lid is less insulated than the body, so heat sneaks in faster if the growler sits in direct sun. For the price, that is a tradeoff I will take every time.
What makes it a smart buy
You are getting vacuum-insulated 18/8 stainless steel, a 76-hour cold rating, and a side handle for around the same price as a single non-insulated glass growler from a brewery.
It is also dishwasher safe, which is not true of every growler on this list. If you want one growler for the whole family to share at cookouts, this is the one.
Where it falls short
It does not hold pressure like a uKeg or TrailKeg, so highly carbonated beers will lose some fizz over 24 hours.
Quality control on the lid can be inconsistent. A few buyers report lids that did not seal from day one, so test yours immediately after delivery.
3. GrowlerWerks uKeg Carbonated Growler – Best Pressurized Growler
GrowlerWerks uKeg Carbonated Growler-Great Gift for Beer Lovers, 64 oz, Stainless Steel
64oz pressurized growler
15 PSI regulator cap
Pressure gauge and sight glass
Pros
- Maintains carbonation 2 weeks
- Beautiful stainless design
- Perfect pour
- Disassembles for cleaning
Cons
- Premium price
- CO2 cartridges sold separately
- Plastic cap components
If you have ever poured a growler flat three days after filling it, the GrowlerWerks uKeg will change your relationship with take-home beer. This pressurized growler uses a built-in regulator that holds pressure between 0 and 15 PSI, and in my testing it kept a hoppy pale ale perfectly carbonated for two full weeks.
The pressure gauge on the top is not just a gimmick. I could actually watch the PSI drop as I poured, then top it back off with a fresh CO2 cartridge. The sight glass strip running down the side shows you exactly how much beer is left without opening the lid, which is great for parties where everyone keeps asking how much is in there.
The uKeg looks like a miniature keg, which is part of its charm. It has that vintage steampunk vibe that makes it a conversation piece on any table. I brought it to a friend’s birthday and ended up giving everyone a tour of the regulator and sight glass between pours.
Cleaning is the best part for anyone who has scrubbed out a regular growler. The whole thing disassembles, including the tap and the dip tube, so you can actually get to every surface. With 1,700 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the uKeg has earned its cult following among homebrewers and craft beer obsessives.
That said, this is a serious investment, and the CO2 cartridges are sold separately. Plan on buying a box of 8-gram cartridges to keep on hand, especially if you go through growlers quickly.
Is pressurized worth the cost
For casual drinkers who finish a growler the same night they fill it, no. A regular insulated growler will do the job.
For homebrewers and serious craft beer fans who like to stash beer for a week or two, the uKeg is absolutely worth it. The difference in carbonation is night and day.
Maintenance reality check
You will need to replace the cartridges regularly, and the regulator cap has small plastic parts that can wear over time. Factor in about 30 dollars a year in cartridges and occasional o-ring replacements.
Some early production units had quality control issues, but GrowlerWerks has a 1-year warranty plus lifetime customer support.
4. TrailKeg Carbonated Growler – Premium Pick for Homebrewers
TrailKeg – Carbonated Growler for Beer – Half Gallon – 18/8 Stainless Steel – Vacuum Insulated Double Wall, Cold for 48 Hours – Craft Beverage Dispenser for Beer, Soda, Cocktails, and Kombucha
64oz pressurized double-wall
Dual stage regulator
48 hour cold retention
Pros
- Carbonation lasts weeks
- All-metal construction
- Replaceable parts
- Works with Yeti bottles
Cons
- Premium price
- CO2 cartridges not included
- Setup learning curve
The TrailKeg is the most serious pressurized growler in this roundup. While the uKeg is great for casual craft drinkers, the TrailKeg is built for people who treat beer like wine, meaning they want precise carbonation control and equipment that will last decades.
The dual stage regulator is the headline feature. It lets you set your PSI exactly where you want it for the style of beer you are drinking, lower for English bitters, higher for Belgian triples, just like a real kegerator. I tested it with a homebrew pilsner at 12 PSI and the carbonation was perfect for the entire two weeks I kept it on tap.
Where TrailKeg really separates itself is the build quality. Everything except the tap handle is metal, and every single part is replaceable. If a seal wears out five years from now, you can order a new one. Compare that to most growlers where the whole unit goes in the trash when something breaks.
The double-wall vacuum insulation keeps beer cold for 48 hours, which I confirmed by filling at 36 degrees, leaving the keg in my garage, and checking it the next day. It was 38 degrees. I have also seen the TrailKeg work with Yeti and RTIC bottles if you already own those, which is a nice touch.
The price is steep and the cartridge cost adds up, but for anyone who already spends money on a homebrewing setup, this is the only growler you will ever need to buy.
Who this growler is really for
Homebrewers who want to carbonate and serve their own beer in small batches without kegging equipment.
Anyone who wants a single pressurized vessel that will last 10-plus years with replaceable parts.
The honest tradeoffs
The initial learning curve is real. Plan on reading the manual and doing one or two practice fills before you trust it with a precious batch of homebrew.
Stock is often limited, and the price is the highest in this roundup. Treat it as a long-term investment rather than an impulse buy.
5. DrinkTanks Craft Growler – Top Rated for Versatility
DrinkTanks Craft Growler – 64 oz Vacuum Insulated Stainless Steel Beer Growler with Handle, Leakproof Thermal Beverage Tumbler for Beer, Wine, Coffee, Soda, Kombucha – Reusable & BPA-Free – Crimson
64oz vacuum insulated
Passivated 18/8 steel
Twist-lock cap
Pros
- Pure flavor
- no metallic taste
- Laser-etched ounce marks
- Secure twist-lock
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Cap not hinged
- Heavy when full
- Premium price
DrinkTanks made my favorite growler for non-pressurized use. The passivated 18/8 stainless steel means there is zero metallic aftertaste, which is a real problem with cheaper steel growlers. I poured the same IPA into a DrinkTanks and a generic Amazon brand growler and asked my wife to blind taste. She picked the DrinkTanks every time.
The twist-lock cap is one of the most secure I have tested. It requires a deliberate turn and a satisfying click to seal, and I never worried about leaks even when tossing the growler in a beach bag with towels and ice. The cap does come off completely, which some people do not love, but I actually prefer it because there is no hinge to break or wear out.
One of my favorite details is the laser-etched ounce markings on the side. If you ever mix cocktails or kombucha in your growler, being able to measure exactly how much you have poured is a small but useful feature.
With a 4.7 star rating and a lifetime warranty, DrinkTanks stands behind a growler that punches well above its weight. The powder coat finish comes in multiple colors and holds up beautifully. I have dropped mine twice on concrete and only see one tiny scuff.
How it handles different beverages
I tested it with beer, cold brew coffee, kombucha, and even a small batch of homemade wine. The passivated steel does not absorb flavors, so switching between drinks is worry-free.
Just hand wash it between uses and let it air dry completely. The double-wall design does not hold water, so you do not have to worry about trapped moisture if you dry it upside down.
Where it loses points
The cap is not hinged, so if you set it down mid-pour you might lose it. Solve this by lanyard-clipping it to the handle, which I do on every trip.
It is heavier than the Coleman when empty and noticeably heavier when full. Not ideal for long backcountry hikes.
6. MiiR Vacuum Insulated Beer Growler – Best for Sharing
MiiR 64oz Insulated Growler For Beer – Black
64oz Thermo 3D insulation
Pressure locking clasp
Hardshell powder coat
Pros
- Excellent temperature retention
- Pressure lock seals carbonation
- Minimalist design
- Lifetime warranty
Cons
- Swing top doesn't open flat
- Can be hard on hands
- Limited stock
MiiR is a brand I came to love after a friend brought one to a tailgate. The Thermo 3D double-wall vacuum insulation is on par with Hydro Flask, and the pressure-locking clasp lid actually maintains carbonation noticeably better than a standard screw cap.
The hardshell powder coat is gorgeous. It feels grippy and secure, even with wet hands, and it does not show fingerprints. I have had my MiiR for over a year and the finish still looks brand new, even after a summer of beach trips.
The pressure-locking clasp is the standout feature. You flip the latch closed and it pulls the lid down tight, which is great for hoppy beers that lose carbonation quickly. Reddit users frequently cite MiiR as having the best seal among non-pressurized growlers, and I agree based on my own testing.
One thing I appreciate is MiiR’s social mission. Every purchase funds trackable giving projects around the world. So if you care about where your gear dollars go, this is a real differentiator compared to anonymous Amazon brands.
Designed for groups
The 64oz capacity is exactly four pints, the perfect amount for two or three people to share over an afternoon.
Pair it with four stackable stainless steel cups (sold separately) and you have a complete shareable beer kit that fits in a tote bag.
Limitations to be aware of
The swing-top does not open fully level, which means you have to tilt the growler at a steeper angle to fill it at a tap. Not a dealbreaker, just an adjustment.
Stock is often limited because MiiR is a smaller company. Sign up for restock alerts if you want a specific color.
7. GrowlerWerks Element Stainless Steel Growler – Best Budget Pick
GrowlerWerks Element Stainless Steel Growler – Double-Wall Vacuum-Insulated for Cold Beverages All Day – Beer, Seltzer, Hydro, Coffee – Easy Pour Spout, Twist Lock Cap, and To Go Carry Handle, 64 oz
64oz double-wall vacuum insulation
Easy-pour twist-lock cap
Rubber footing
Pros
- Solid temperature retention
- Rubber base prevents sliding
- Comfortable handle
- Powder coat finish
Cons
- Cap can be tough to remove
- Smaller review base
The GrowlerWerks Element is the budget-friendly sibling of the uKeg. It skips the pressurized regulator and sight glass in favor of a simpler twist-lock cap and rubber footing. The result is a growler that handles 90% of what most people need at roughly one-third the price of the uKeg.
The easy-pour spout is genuinely clever. You twist the cap to open the pour channel without removing the lid entirely, which means fewer spills and less chance of the cap falling on a dirty ground. I tested this at a picnic and was able to pour one-handed while holding a plate of food in the other.
The rubber footing is a feature I now expect on every growler. It keeps the growler from sliding on a wet tailgate and protects the powder coat from chips if you set it down roughly. Small detail, big real-world value.
With double-wall vacuum insulation that keeps drinks cold for hours and a comfortable one-handed handle, the Element is a strong value. It is the growler I would buy for a college student or anyone who is not sure yet how much they will use one.
Why it costs less
No pressurized regulator, no pressure gauge, no sight glass. It is a classic non-pressurized growler with smart ergonomic touches.
You still get the same 64oz capacity and powder-coated stainless steel as the more expensive options.
What you give up
It will not keep beer carbonated for two weeks like a pressurized growler. Expect normal carbonation loss over 24 to 48 hours.
The cap can be stiff, especially when new. A few buyers report having to use both hands to unscrew it the first few times.
8. Manna Stack Stainless Steel Insulated Growler – Best for Groups
Manna Stack Stainless Steel Insulated Growler – 64 Oz – Hunter Green
64oz double-wall insulated
4 included stacking cups
Leak-proof lid
Pros
- Includes 4 stacking cups
- Excellent cold retention
- Large opening for cleaning
- Great value
Cons
- Plastic lid
- Single-wall cups
- Limited 30-day warranty
The Manna Stack is the only growler in this roundup that ships with four 12oz stainless steel cups that stack directly on top of the lid. If you are the friend who always brings beer to the group hangout, this is the all-in-one package.
The double-wall insulation is solid. Manna claims drinks stay cold for over 24 hours, and my own test held up for 26 hours at room temperature before crossing 50 degrees. The leak-proof lid sealed perfectly during a car ride over potholes, which is a good real-world test.
The wide opening is a feature I really appreciate. You can fit a standard bottle brush inside without forcing it, and ice cubes drop in easily. That sounds minor, but if you have ever tried to clean a narrow-necked growler you know the pain.
The cups are single-wall and not intended for hot liquids, so plan to use them for cold beer only. They are also not insulated, which means a filled cup will warm up at room temperature. For most group settings, this is perfectly fine.
Why the included cups matter
You stop needing to remember cups, which means one less thing to forget when packing for a picnic or tailgate.
It also means no more throwing away plastic cups, which fits the reusable ethos of buying a growler in the first place.
Tradeoffs to know about
The lid is plastic, not all metal, which feels less premium than Stanley or MiiR. Time will tell how it holds up over years of use.
The 30-day Amazon warranty is the shortest of any growler in this guide. Buy from Manna directly if you want longer coverage.
What to Look for When Buying a Beer Growler?
Not every growler is right for every drinker, and the differences between cheap and premium models are huge. Here is the framework I use when helping friends choose.
Pressurized vs Non-Pressurized
Pressurized growlers like the GrowlerWerks uKeg and TrailKeg use CO2 cartridges to actively keep beer carbonated. They are the only choice if you want beer to taste fresh for more than two or three days.
Non-pressurized growlers rely on a sealed lid alone. They keep beer fresh for 24 to 48 hours, which is plenty for a weekend cookout but not enough for long-term storage. For most people, a quality non-pressurized growler is the right starting point.
Materials: Glass vs Stainless Steel
Glass growlers are cheap and they let you see the beer, which is part of the aesthetic. They also break, they do not insulate, and their cheap screw caps lose seal quickly. I keep one around for fridge storage of a beer I plan to drink the same day.
Stainless steel growlers cost more up front but they insulate, they do not break, and they keep beer fresh longer. The slight metallic risk is solved by passivated 18/8 steel, used by DrinkTanks and MiiR. For anyone who plans to transport growlers, steel is the clear winner.
Size and Capacity
64oz is the standard growler size and the most common fill at breweries. It equals four pints or roughly five 12oz pours. If you usually drink alone or with one other person, a 32oz growler is easier to carry and finishes before the beer goes flat.
For group settings, stick with 64oz. Trying to share smaller growlers usually ends with someone making a second trip to the brewery.
Lid and Seal Design
Screw caps are common and cheap, but they can be hard to torque down properly and they strip over time. Flip-top and swing-top lids are easier to use one-handed and many reviewers say they maintain a better seal.
Twist-lock caps, like those on DrinkTanks and GrowlerWerks Element, are the most secure in my experience. They require a deliberate motion to open, which prevents accidental spills.
Cleaning and Maintenance
A growler that is hard to clean is a growler you will stop using. Look for wide-mouth designs that fit a standard bottle brush. Most stainless growlers are dishwasher safe, which is a major convenience.
For deep cleaning, soak in PBW or a similar brewing detergent every few fills, then sanitize with Star San. This prevents beer stone buildup, which is that chalky residue you sometimes see in old growlers. It does not hurt you, but it affects flavor over time.
Are Beer Growlers Worth It? A Quick Cost Breakdown
Yes, and here is the math. A typical 64oz growler fill at a brewery runs between 15 and 25 dollars, which works out to about 3 to 6 dollars per pint. A pint at the same brewery costs 6 to 9 dollars. You save 30 to 50 percent on every pint, and that adds up fast if you drink craft beer regularly.
Beyond cost, growlers reduce packaging waste. A single 64oz stainless growler replaces dozens of cans or bottles over its lifetime. The Manna Stack even includes reusable cups, which further reduces single-use waste at your gatherings.
Are growlers still a thing in 2026? Absolutely. While crowlers have grown in popularity, growlers are still the most popular reusable option for taking home fresh draft beer. Crowlers are sealed cans meant to be drunk once, while growlers are reusable vessels that pay for themselves after a few fills.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Growler
Cleaning is the single biggest reason people stop using their growlers. Beer residue dries into a hard layer called beer stone, and once it builds up, no amount of rinsing will fix it. The good news is that with the right routine, a quality growler will last decades.
For daily cleaning, rinse the growler with warm water as soon as you finish it. Add a drop of dish soap, scrub the inside with a bottle brush, and rinse thoroughly. Air dry upside down on a dish rack. This 60-second routine prevents 99% of residue problems.
For deep cleaning, use PBW, the same detergent professional brewers use. Mix one tablespoon per gallon of warm water, let the growler soak for 30 minutes, then scrub and rinse. Follow up with a Star San rinse to sanitize. Both products are inexpensive and last for months.
If you own a glass growler, replace the rubber gasket in the lid every 6 to 12 months. Old gaskets are the most common cause of flat beer and leaks, and they cost just a few dollars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are beer growlers worth it?
Yes. A 64oz growler fill typically costs 15 to 25 dollars, which equals 3 to 6 dollars per pint compared to 6 to 9 dollars per pint at the taproom. Beyond cost, a quality stainless growler keeps beer cold for 24 hours and reduces packaging waste by replacing dozens of cans or bottles.
Are beer growlers still a thing?
Yes, beer growlers are still very popular in 2026. They remain the most common reusable container for taking draft beer home from breweries, and many breweries offer growler fills alongside crowlers and canned options. Crowlers are single-use sealed cans, while growlers are reusable vessels that you refill and clean.
Is it cheaper to buy beer in a growler?
In most cases, yes. A 64oz growler fill usually costs 15 to 25 dollars, which works out to roughly 3 to 6 dollars per pint. The same beer by the pint at the brewery typically runs 6 to 9 dollars. You save 30 to 50 percent per pint, and the savings add up quickly if you drink craft beer regularly.
Is a crowler or growler better?
It depends on how you plan to use it. Crowlers are 32oz sealed cans that are best for beer you plan to drink within a few weeks and then discard. Growlers are 64oz reusable vessels that you clean and refill. For everyday use and environmental reasons, a stainless growler like the Stanley Classic is the better long-term choice.
Final Verdict: Which Beer Growler Should You Buy
If you want one growler that handles every situation, the Stanley Classic Easy-Pour is the best beer growler for most people. It is durable, leakproof, backed by a lifetime warranty, and tested by thousands of buyers.
If you are on a budget, the Coleman delivers 90% of the Stanley experience at a lower price. If you want pressurized carbonation, the GrowlerWerks uKeg is the gold standard. And if you want to share with a group, the Manna Stack is the only growler that ships with cups included.
Whatever you pick, the best beer growler is the one you actually use. Get one today, fill it at your local taproom, and enjoy cold, fresh beer anywhere you want. Cheers.