Diameters of beer cans are not all the same and vary according to their size and, sometimes, even their manufacturer. The most standard diameter for regular beer cans, such as in the widely used 12 oz (355 ml) format, is about 2.6 inches (66 mm). This is the most popular size in the global beer market and is also being used by major brands like Budweiser and Heineken. A 2023 Brewers Association study found that more than 75% of all beer cans sold in the U.S. were 12 oz cans, mainly because such cans are comparatively cheaper and very convenient.
Larger cans of beer, such as those of 16 oz (473 ml), are made with a larger diameter of about 2.8 inches (71 mm), thus giving them more capacity, yet still keeping a similar structural makeup. This is very popular in the craft beer industry, with brands such as Sierra Nevada and New Belgium Brewing commonly packaging products in 16 oz cans for those customers who desire a bit more in one serving.
Specialty cans, like the ones used for stronger beers or limited-edition brews, can range from 2.4 inches (61 mm) for smaller 8 oz (237 ml) cans to 3 inches (76 mm) or more for larger 24 oz (710 ml) cans. Larger cans are generally reserved for promotional items and bulk packaging. Pabst Blue Ribbon and MillerCoors have utilized these larger cans for special events and limited-time offers. According to a report by the Can Manufacturers Institute, oversized beer cans-such as 24 oz-have seen a 10% increase in sales over the past three years, driven by festival promotions and large-format beer packaging.
The materials used in the production of beer cans also determine the diameter. Most beer cans are made from aluminum, which means there is not much significant difference concerning the size of the can. Still, minor variations do exist when it comes to specific printing or coating applications. Complex prints, textured finishes-things like that might create minor changes in diameter, but again within very limited deviation, 0.1-inch or 2.5 mm range. This is doable with brands like Guinness, which usually stamps a design on the cans to make their diameters slightly different.
The most popular diameters, such as the 2.6-inch standard, provide the ideal balance between product capacity and cost-effectiveness. With the growth in craft beer, though, we’re seeing a lot more variations, such as the 16 oz and larger formats, gain significant traction.”-said James Foster, industry expert at Ball Corporation. With diverse demands for beer can sizes, there are several options available to suit the needs of different businesses. To know more about the different sizes of beer cans, you can look into beer can diameter.