Growlers and crowlers are both popular vessels for transporting draft beer from a brewery or taproom to your home. While they serve a similar purpose, there are some key differences between the two that you should be aware of before deciding which one to use.
Size and Capacity
The most noticeable difference between a growler and a crowler is their size and capacity:
- A growler typically holds 64 ounces of beer, which is equivalent to four pints or two quarts.
- A crowler, on the other hand, is much larger and can hold up to 32 ounces of beer, which is equivalent to two pints or one quart.
Material
Another important difference between growlers and crowlers is the material they are made of:
- Growlers are usually made of glass, ceramic, or stainless steel, which are all reusable and environmentally friendly options.
- Crowlers, on the other hand, are made of aluminum, which is single-use and recyclable.
Sealing Mechanism
The way in which growlers and crowlers are sealed also differs:
- Growlers typically have a screw-on cap or a swing top that seals the container to prevent leaks and maintain carbonation.
- Crowlers are sealed using a machine that applies a lid and seals it with a pressurized seal, similar to a canned beverage.
Portability
When it comes to portability, growlers and crowlers offer different advantages:
- Growlers are bulkier and heavier due to their larger size and material, making them less convenient to carry around.
- Crowlers are more lightweight and compact, making them easier to transport for outdoor activities or events.
Shelf Life
The shelf life of beer stored in a growler or crowler can also vary:
- Beer in a growler is best consumed within a few days of filling, as the seal may not be as airtight, leading to quicker loss of carbonation and freshness.
- Beer in a crowler can last longer due to the airtight seal, but it is still recommended to consume it within a week or two for optimal flavor.
Reusability
Considering sustainability, reusability is an important factor to consider when choosing between a growler and a crowler:
- Growlers are designed to be reusable, allowing you to refill them multiple times and reduce waste from single-use containers.
- Crowlers are single-use containers that need to be recycled after each use, which may not be as eco-friendly as using a reusable growler.
Cost
Cost can also play a role in deciding between a growler and a crowler:
- Growlers are typically more expensive upfront, as you have to purchase the container itself, but they pay off in the long run with multiple uses.
- Crowlers are generally cheaper since they are single-use, but the cost can add up if you frequently purchase beer in crowlers instead of investing in a reusable growler.
Customization
If you’re looking to personalize your beer container, you may want to consider the customization options available for growlers and crowlers:
- Growlers can be customized with etched designs, logos, or labels, making them a great option for gifts or promotional items.
- Crowlers are typically pre-printed with the brewery’s logo and information, limiting customization options but providing a sleek and uniform look.
Accessibility
Lastly, accessibility can be a deciding factor when choosing between a growler and a crowler:
- Growlers are widely available at breweries, taprooms, and beer shops, making them easy to find and purchase for filling with your favorite beer.
- Crowlers may be less common and only available at certain breweries or taprooms that have the equipment to can beer on-site, limiting your options for where to purchase them.