A Guide to Growlers and Crowlers

If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of growlers and crowlers — but do you know the difference? Whether you’re grabbing a fresh brew from your local craft brewery or looking for the best way to store your favorite beer, understanding these containers can help ensure your beer-drinking experience is top-notch. Let’s dive into the world of growlers, crowlers, and beyond!

What is a Growler?

Growlers are a refillable, airtight jug used to transport draft beer from a brewery to your home (or anywhere else you plan to enjoy it). Traditionally made of glass, growlers can also be found in stainless steel or ceramic varieties. The standard growler size is 64 ounces (a little over five bottles of beer), but half-growlers, also called howlers, hold 32 ounces.

Growlers are great for keeping beer fresh for a few days and are an excellent option for those who enjoy small-batch or seasonal brews that aren’t available in bottles or cans.

What is a Crowler?

Crowlers (short for “can growler”) are the growler’s aluminum counterpart. It holds 32 ounces of beer and is sealed on the spot using a can-seaming machine. Unlike growlers, crowlers are intended for single-use and are fully recyclable.

The advantage of a crowler is its ability to block out oxygen and UV light, keeping the beer fresher for longer than a glass growler. Plus, crowlers are lightweight and travel-friendly, making them ideal for outdoor adventures where glass isn’t permitted.

Growlers and Crowlers

How Do They Compare?
Size and Capacity
  • Growler: Typically available in 32 oz. and 64 oz. sizes.
  • Crowler: Standard size is 32 oz. (two full pints).
Freshness & Storage
  • Growler: Best enjoyed within 2-3 days once opened, though a properly sealed growler can last up to a week.
  • Crowler: Stays fresh longer due to its airtight seal—up to a month if unopened.
Container Maintenance
  • Growler: Needs regular cleaning and drying to prevent bacteria buildup.
  • Crowler: Single-use and fully recyclable—no cleaning required!
Portability & Accessibility
  • Growler: Can be refilled, but glass growlers are not always allowed in public places.
  • Crowler: Aluminum cans are more portable and allowed in more locations (beaches, parks, festivals, etc.).
Cost
  • Growler: One-time purchase for the container, plus refills.
  • Crowler: Slightly cheaper per container but single-use only.

Beer Container Sizes: A Breakdown

Beyond growlers and crowlers, beer comes in a variety of containers. Here’s a quick guide to common sizes:

Keg Sizes

KEG TYPE
GALLONS/OUNCES
PINTS (16oz)
BOTTLES (12oz)
Half Barrel (Standard) 15.5/1984 124 165
Quarter Barrel (Pony Keg) 7.75/992 62 82
Sixth Barrel (Sixtel) 5.16/661 42 56
Cornelius Keg 5/640 40 53
Mini Keg 1.32/169 10-11 14 

 

Bottle and Can Sizes

TYPE
OUNCES
ALSO KNOWN AS
Can 12 oz Standard
Can 16 oz Pint, Pounder
Can 19.2 oz Stovepipe
Can 32 oz Crowler
Bottle 12 oz Standard
Bottle 22 oz Bomber
Bottle 750 ml Standard Wine Bottle
Bottle 64 oz Growler

 

Draft Beer Sizes

If you’re drinking beer on tap, you’ll likely encounter different serving sizes:

  • Flight (4-5 oz.) – Small pours for sampling multiple beers.
  • Half Pint (8-12 oz.) – Often used for high-alcohol beers.
  • Pint (16 oz.) – The standard draft beer size.
  • Imperial Pint (20 oz.) – Common in Canada and the UK.
  • Tall (22 oz.) – Larger pours sometimes offered at restaurants.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between growlers and crowlers depends on your needs. If you want a refillable, eco-friendly option, go with a growler. If you prefer maximum freshness and portability, a crowler might be your best bet. Either way, both offer a fantastic way to enjoy fresh draft beer from your favorite brewery.

No matter which container you choose, the most important thing is to support your local breweries and enjoy great beer responsibly. Cheers!