What Size Keg Do I Need? A Simple Guide for Bars, Cafes, and Offices
Not sure whether to order a sixtel, a quarter barrel, or a half barrel? This quick guide matches keg sizes to your venue type and expected volume.
Keg Sizes, Demystified
If you've never ordered a keg before, the sizing can be confusing. Here's a plain-English breakdown.
The Three Sizes You'll See
Sixtel (1/6 Barrel)
- Volume: 5.16 gallons / ~55 twelve-ounce pours
- Best for: Cafes, small offices, testing a new flavor
- Dimensions: 23⅜" tall × 9¼" diameter
Quarter Barrel (1/4 Barrel)
- Volume: 7.75 gallons / ~82 twelve-ounce pours
- Best for: Medium offices, boutique bars, events under 100 people
- Dimensions: 13⅞" tall × 16⅛" diameter (short and wide - "pony keg")
Half Barrel (1/2 Barrel)
- Volume: 15.5 gallons / ~165 twelve-ounce pours
- Best for: High-traffic bars, large offices, events over 100 people
- Dimensions: 23⅜" tall × 16⅛" diameter
Quick Decision Matrix
| Venue Type | Weekly Volume | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|
| Cafe / coffee shop | 20-40 drinks | Sixtel |
| Small office (15-30 people) | 30-60 drinks | Sixtel or Quarter |
| Large office (50+ people) | 80-150 drinks | Quarter or Half |
| Bar (moderate NA demand) | 40-80 drinks | Quarter |
| Bar (strong NA program) | 100+ drinks | Half |
| Wedding / event (one day) | Varies | See our event calculator |
Pro Tips
1. Start small: Order a sixtel first to gauge demand, then scale up
2. Rotation: Swap flavors between keg orders to keep things fresh
3. Shelf life: NA kegs stay fresh for 45-60 days once tapped (longer than most craft beer)
Not sure? Tell us your venue type and expected weekly volume, and we'll recommend the right size.
Continue with the full guide
The Complete Guide to Non-Alcoholic Draft
Brian Conradt is co-owner of PourZero and Rare Brew. He leads brewing, kegging, and white-label brand partnerships from PourZero's Indianapolis production facility, working with operators and beverage brands launching NA keg programs.
Connect on LinkedIn →
