Kegs aren’t just containers. They’re a key part of how beer is stored, transported, and served — whether you're brewing in your garage or managing full-scale production. Wondering what’s the best way to package your beer? Let’s dive in.
What Is a Keg?
A keg is a sealed, reusable container used to store and transport beverages (most often beer) and to serve them directly into glasses via a dispensing system.
Unlike bottles or cans, kegs are pressurized, which makes them easy to connect to CO₂ systems — ensuring consistent pour quality and protecting the beer from oxygen exposure.
Why Kegs Are the Best Choice for Both Home and Pro Brewers
✔️ Flavor Integrity – Airtight seals keep oxygen out and carbonation in, preserving aroma, freshness, and mouthfeel.
✔️ Efficient Storage & Serving – One container, one tap, zero fuss with cleaning, capping, and labeling dozens of bottles.
✔️ Labor Savings – Fewer containers mean less cleaning, packaging, and handling.
✔️ Professional Presentation – Especially important for microbreweries: bars prefer kegs over individual bottles — cleaner, faster, and more consistent.
Types of Kegs: With Spears vs. With Lids
Kegs with Spears
Standard in the commercial world, these kegs are equipped with built-in valves and designed for use with pressurized dispensing systems.
Pros:
+ Highly durable and airtight
+ Can handle high pressure
+ Compatible with professional tap systems
+ Fast filling and serving with proper setup
Cons:
- Require dedicated equipment for filling and dispensing
- Can’t be opened without special tools
- Need regular servicing and cleaning of spears
Kegs with Lids (Cornelius and Similar)
A favorite among homebrewers. These kegs use manual locking lids and are easy to open, clean, and refill.
Pros:
+ Simple and beginner-friendly
+ Easy to clean manually
+ Great for small batches and experimental brews
+ Can be filled manually or under pressure
Cons:
- Limited volume
- Can lose pressure if not sealed properly
- Slower and less consistent pour
- Risk of inadequate sanitization
What Are Kegs Made Of?
Stainless Steel – The industry standard. Strong, durable, and ideal for preserving pressure and flavor.
Plastic (PET) – Lightweight and disposable.
Aluminum – A cheap but outdated alternative. Still used in mini-kegs but inferior to steel in both strength and seal quality.
Keg Sizes
Keg capacities range from 5 to 50 liters, depending on the application.
- Homebrewers often use 9.5L or 19L Cornelius kegs
- Commercial breweries typically work with 20L, 30L, and 50L formats
Final Thoughts
Kegs are more than just containers — they’re a tool that impacts beer quality, production efficiency, and customer experience.
✔️ If you're a homebrewer, kegs help you ditch the bottles, speed up your process, and keep your beer tasting exactly as intended.
✔️ If you're a microbrewery, kegs ensure flavor consistency and streamline distribution to bars and restaurants.
✔️ If you're a buyer or brewery owner, choosing the right kegs means better logistics, longer shelf life, and happier clients.
At mykegs.de, you’ll find everything you need: stainless steel kegs, fittings (spears), accessories, and expert support. Because packaging isn’t just packaging — it’s part of your beer’s identity.