Buzz
The term keg was first used in the 17th century, as defined by the Oxford English Dictionary, to refer to “a small barrel or cask, usually less than 10 gallons.”
It didn’t specifically refer to a barrel of beer until the mid-20th century. While it's possible to get kegs of other drinks like wine or soda, nowadays, if someone mentions buying a keg for their event, it’s safe to assume it’s beer. What’s less predictable, however, is how many red solo cups it will fill. This is because kegs come in different sizes.
However, most keg suppliers standardize their offerings, providing clear details about the size and capacity of each keg on their websites. For more information, check out resources from KegWorks and Buy Keg Beer.
Cornelius Keg
Other names: Corny keg, soda kegCapacity: 5 gallons12-ounce beers: 5316-ounce beers (pints): 40
These tall kegs, initially designed for Coca-Cola and Pepsi, derive their name from the company Cornelius, Inc., which manufactured them. They have gained popularity among home brewers due to their practicality.
Sixth-Barrel Keg
Other names: Sixtel, torpedo logCapacity: 5.16 gallons12-ounce beers: 5516-ounce beers (pints): 41
Slightly bigger than a Corny keg, the sixth-barrel is perfect for smaller venues that value variety more than sheer volume.
Quarter-Barrel Keg
Other names: Pony keg, stubby quarterCapacity: 7.75 gallons12-ounce beers: 8216-ounce beers (pints): 62
The quarter-barrel is often referred to as a “stubby quarter” due to its compact and squat design.
Slim Quarter Keg
Also known as: Tall quarter Capacity: 7.75 gallons 12-ounce beers: 82 16-ounce beers (pints): 62
Slim-quarter kegs offer the same beer capacity as a standard quarter-barrel, but their design makes them more suitable for dual- and triple-tap kegerators.
Half-Barrel Keg
Also known as: Full-size keg, full keg Capacity: 15.5 gallons 12-ounce beers: 165 16-ounce beers (pints): 124
This type of keg is commonly seen at large-scale parties, which is why it’s often referred to as the 'full' or 'full-size' keg.
50-Litre Keg
Other names: Import keg, European barrel. Capacity: 13.2 gallons. 12-ounce beers: 140. 16-ounce beers (pints): 105.
The 50-litre keg, widely used in Europe, requires a different type of keg coupler.
Mini Keg
Other names: N/A. Capacity: 1.32 gallons. 12-ounce beers: 14. 16-ounce beers (pints): 10.
Mini kegs may not serve large crowds, but they are perfect for fitting on your tabletop. How fun is that?
