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🧮 Calculator

Keg vs. Cases Calculator

Figure out whether buying a keg or cases of beer is cheaper for your party size. Accounts for tap rental, deposit, cup requirements, and beverage storage logistics.

Party Beer Comparison
40
4 Beers
160 $
24 $

Best Value Verdict

Cases save ~$22

160 total beers needed

1/2 Barrel Keg Option

1 Keg (~$190)

24-Pk Canned Cases

7 Cases (~$168)

Cups Needed (for Keg)

192 Cups

Half Barrel Yield

165 Pours (12 oz)

💡 Pro Tips

  • • Hand pump taps push ambient oxygen into the keg, turning beer flat within 12–24 hours.
  • • Cans offer flavor variety (IPAs, light lagers, seltzers) and zero waste since unopened cans keep for months.
  • • A standard half-barrel keg weighs ~160 lbs full — make sure you have two people to lift it into a tub of ice.