Beer mug: A guide to choosing, using and buying it
Beer is the most consumed alcoholic beverage in Europe. Its low price, thirst-quenching effect, and the convivial atmosphere it fosters are well-known. Whether celebrating an event, refreshing oneself after work, or enjoying a beer with friends, everyone has held a glass of beer in their hand, or in our case, a beer mug.
When we talk about a beer mug, we immediately think of that thick-walled glass cup with a handle. But for some, a beer mug represents a container made of steel or other metal, or even one with a lid, like the German beer stein. Everyone has their own vision of a beer glass, because depending on the bar you frequent or the current Netflix series, this container can take many forms thanks to the rich craftsmanship that has developed around beer.
In this article , Limonadier will guide you through buying your first beer mug based on your needs, presenting all the available products, their features, prices, and uses. Ready? Let's go!
What are the main categories of beer mugs?
Classification by geographical origin
🇩🇪 German and Bavarian beer steins
When we think of a traditional beer mug, we usually think of the German one. It can take two forms; the older one is a steel and metal mug with a lid, holding 500ml / 1 liter. This type of pint glass is no longer used because the cost of production is too high and maintenance is impractical. However, it is a much-appreciated gift because it is a highly decorated, handcrafted model.
The thick-walled glass mug has now become the standard. Inexpensive, with a 1-liter capacity and a handle. Everyone is familiar with those Oktoberfest images of servers in traditional attire carrying four to six mugs at once.
Main use: Oktoberfest, beer festivals, beer gardens, collections
Average price: Available for sale starting at €15-20 for a 1-liter glass mug. Expect to pay €30-60 for a steel/metal mug with a lid. Discounts available for bulk purchases.
🥨 Belgian/Alsatian Mugs
You can't talk about beer steins without mentioning Belgium, the country where Trappist monks developed hops to create a wide variety of beers. Their expertise didn't stop at hop cultivation, however, but also extended to the crafting of beer steins. The Belgian beer glass is a chalice with a very open shape, like half a balloon, resting on a small, thick stem. This model has no handle. This type of glass helps aerate the beer, allowing its flavors to develop quickly as it's poured from the bottle.
Main use: Daily, as it is available in a 250ml version.
Average price: Available from a selling price of 15 euros up to 30 euros.
Alsace, for its part, is a cross-border region between Belgium and Germany. This is why its crafts related to beer steins are present in the local culture. Their specialty was glazed ceramics with bright colors and floral motifs, often reflecting regional designs.
Main use: In Winstubs (Alsatian taverns), regional collections
Average price: Often handcrafted, their selling price is higher, expect to pay 30-50 euros.
⚔️ Viking and medieval tankards
Viking/Medieval beer steins are wooden beer steins or steins with a steel, metal, or leather rim, featuring a rustic design. They are more like fanciful reproductions from Netflix series than the result of archaeological digs. Nevertheless, these stylish beer steins make a popular gift.
One of the most persistent myths concerns drinking horns. They did indeed exist, but their use was limited to ceremonies. This type of pint glass lacks a base, so the horns don't stand upright and tend to tip over.
Main uses: Medieval festivals, collections, decoration, gifts
Average price: Although these are replicas, their selling price will be between 15 and 50 euros.
Classification by capacity: from mini to XXL
📏 Standard Capacity Guide
- Galopin (20-25cl): Small mugs, shots of strong spirits. Ideal as a small gift or tourist souvenir. Retail price: €8-20.
- Half-pint (25-33cl): Tasting size for strong beers (Trappist, Imperial). Allows you to sample several beers without overindulging. Retail price: €15-35.
- Standard (40-50cl): For everyday use, restaurant/bar service. Comfortable to hold, thick-walled. The most versatile for regular use. Price: €20-50.
- Mass (1L = 1000ml): Bavarian style. Oktoberfest, large festive occasions. Requires a good grip (2-3kg full). Price: €30-80.
Limonadier recommends the 40-50cl size for everyday/regular use. It offers a good grip, is sturdy and durable, and allows you to enjoy beer in moderation without overindulging.
How to choose the ideal beer mug for your intended use?
For everyday use: practicality above all
If you're looking to buy a beer mug for regular home consumption, especially for tasting, Limonadier recommends a clear tulip-shaped beer glass . This will allow you to develop your appreciation of flavors and aromas while enjoying the beautiful color of your beer. However, if you're simply buying one for enjoyment without any formal tasting intent, follow your heart and indulge yourself. Whether it's a Viking beer mug, a pottery mug, or one with a metal or leather plate, the important thing is that you like it.
✓ Daily Use Checklist
- Capacity: 33-50cl (standard bottle/draft bar size)
- Material: Thick glass OR modern ceramic/stoneware
- Care instructions: Dishwasher safe
- Robustness: No fragile parts (avoid delicate lids)
- Budget: €15-30 per mug (reasonable investment)
Product recommendations: Limonadier recommends purchasing a transparent beer mug with a handle and a capacity of 50cl. This makes it more comfortable to hold.
For festive use: cultural authenticity
Are you organizing a party, a themed barbecue, or simply want to recreate the Oktoberfest atmosphere at home? Then the 1-liter Mass stoneware pot with a lid is the perfect choice. The price is, of course, higher, but the impact will be more authentic.
✓ Festive Use Checklist
- Capacity: 1L (Mass) Oktoberfest standard
- Material: Glass OR plastic
- Decor: Coat of arms, traditional Bavarian motifs
- Durability: Flexible plastic or thick-walled glass
- Quantity: Allow 1 mug per guest
Tip: For important events (weddings, 50th birthdays), some organizers prefer to use plastic cups. Less risk of breakage, easier to store, and no maintenance required.
For collectors: authenticity and heritage value
Beer has been consumed in glasses for hundreds of years. In the world of alcoholic beverages, no other drink boasts such a diverse range of designs. Each region, with its own unique craftsmanship and materials, has adapted the container accordingly. This explains why some beer mugs have a lid, others a metal plate, and still others are made of leather. This diversity makes a collection of beer mugs truly meaningful.
🔍 Checking the authenticity of a collectible mug
Visual examinations:
- Decorative quality: Antique cobalt paints show micro-variations in shade (hand application), unlike uniform modern prints.
- Lid: Antique pewter develops a natural grayish patina. Modern pewter remains bright. Antique hinges show actual mechanical wear.
- Maker's marks: Handmade pieces often bear the potter's signature or stamp on the bottom. Check against maker's marks directories.
To start a collection, set yourself an initial budget of 30-50 euros per unit to acquire 3-5 quality pieces rather than 20 worthless reproductions.
Where to buy your beer mug in 2025?
Now that we have discovered the different types of beer mugs and how to choose one according to its use, you are now wondering where to buy your mug?
- Online , you can find all sorts of beer mugs available for purchase individually or in sets, with varying shipping costs. If you're set on buying your mug online, Limonadier recommends specialized websites that offer quality products. Amazon offers a wide selection of pints, but without guaranteeing the materials or reliability. A site like Limonadier, which specializes in alcohol tasting, offers only quality mugs, available individually or in sets with discounts and free shipping on orders over €10. Is it a gift? Let us know, and our team will provide gift wrapping.
- Specialty shops also offer quality products made of steel, metal, glass, or wood. Prices are often higher than online, but you won't have to pay for delivery. Plus, you'll benefit from personalized advice for your purchase. If it's a gift, your friend can easily exchange it if needed. Items are available individually or in sets. These shops also often carry beer to complement your gift, something an online store simply can't offer.
- Flea markets can also be a great way to buy a mug at a bargain price. You'll often find unique items. Whether it's a mug with a lid, a silver one, or one with a leather covering, you're sure to find glasses you won't find anywhere else. However, be mindful of the quality, as these will often be secondhand. No shipping costs, just unique vintage finds! A little tip: if your favorite bar has some nice glasses and you don't mind buying secondhand, don't hesitate to ask if they'd sell you a set. Every bar regularly restocks, so they'll be happy to sell you a pint.
- Craftsmen may also offer beer glasses and mugs for sale. Made of pottery, wood, or even steel and metal, like a Viking-style mug, these are high-quality products with unique sizes and shapes that you won't find in your local bar. While these mugs come at a price, they will last a long time with proper care.
Recommendation: For your first purchase, whether for yourself or as a gift, we recommend buying from a specialist website like Limonadier. Low prices, quality products, and free shipping make it ideal for beginners. Plus, the advantage of glassware is that it breaks, so you'll have the opportunity to quickly change the size of your mug.
Maintenance according to the materials
Now that you know where to buy your beer mug, it's time to think about cleaning it. This is a crucial step for any container that will hold beer or cocktails, because improper cleaning can leave residue on the inside that will give your beer or drink an unpleasant taste. Maintenance isn't complicated, but it needs to be done correctly and, above all, at the right time!
Summary of interview protocols
The best practice to maintain when using a beer mug, whether it's made of steel, metal, wood, ceramic, etc., is to always rinse it and fill it with water after each tasting session. This prevents the sugar from the beer from sticking to the mug's surface. This will make cleaning much easier. It's the classic bar method that works best.
Wooden Beer Mug: Unlike steel or metal, a wooden beer mug is a living material that changes over time. If you leave it soaking for too long, poor-quality wood can swell. That's why it's recommended not to wash a wooden beer mug in a dishwasher, but to wash it by hand with warm water and liquid soap.
Ceramic/Stoneware Beer Mug: A ceramic beer mug is fragile. Once damaged, the crack will widen. However, this product is dishwasher safe. This type of beer mug is susceptible to damage from impacts. Be careful to use the soft side of your sponge.
Glass Beer Mug: A beer mug has very strong walls. It's the safest material. Shock-resistant and dishwasher-safe. Over time, the color may become less transparent, so you'll need to regularly use baking soda to maintain its whiteness.
Metal/Pewter Beer Mug: A steel/metal beer mug consists of a thick wall reinforced with a steel plate. Wash gently in lukewarm water and dry immediately (rapid oxidation). Polish annually with a special metal polish or whiting. Never put antique pewter in a dishwasher.
- Limonadier recommends that, regardless of the material, you always air-dry your beer mug or dry it with a microfiber cloth before storing it. It's the moisture inside the beer mug that will cause residue to build up on the sides and result in an unpleasant taste in your beer.
- If you would like to learn more about the care of beer mugs, please see our complete article on this subject: How to care for and clean a beer mug?
Storing your beer mug
Buying the right beer mug and cleaning it properly would be a shame to store it incorrectly! In the world of glassware and beer, the most common breakage comes from improper storage, which causes your beer mugs to clink together, creating cracks and rendering your pint unusable. Whether it's glass, wood, steel, metal, or pottery, this happens if you don't take care of your beer mugs when storing them.
📦 Optimal storage conditions
In a bar, you'll notice that to save space, there's a shelf with a rail underneath where they can hang glassware by the handle or stem of a beer mug. This system saves space and allows you to quickly grab a mug without risking it bumping into other mugs. In a cupboard, only the lower part is usable, so you lose 50% of the space. Furthermore, a beer mug with a handle is quite large. In a cupboard, mixed with other glasses (beer or otherwise), each glass will be tightly packed, increasing the risk of it bumping into something.
- Support: Open, ventilated shelves (solid wood or stable metal/steel)
- Closed display case: With humidity control for items over €500
- Decoration: A Viking beer mug made of wood and metal is a pleasing sight. You can display it for all to see.
- Position: Upright on its foot, you never store a beer mug lying down.
- Temperature: 15-22°C stable. Avoid proximity to radiators, sunny windows, and damp cellars.
Conclusion: the beer mug, a cultural object, but not only that!
Limonadier has just introduced you to the most popular beer mug shapes, their advantages, and how each size and shape of beer glass can enhance your appreciation of the flavor profile. You now have all the information you need to buy your first set of beer mugs. Whether you're looking for a specific size, Viking-style walls, steel/metal, or simply glass, it's important to remember that while beer is a festive drink, it shouldn't be overindulged.
Drinking beer is fine, but do it responsibly.
Take the time to savor it, to discover each aroma, and try different glass sizes to find the one that suits you best. But sometimes you have to know when to stop and be responsible when enjoying a pint of beer. Always stay in control of your actions and don't drink beer if you're going to drive.
The final word
One last piece of advice before you make your first purchase of a beer mug: Limonadier recommends you travel, as beer culture varies from region to region. In France, the standard beer glass is 250ml, while a German beer mug typically holds 500ml. That's why, by attending Oktoberfest, you'll discover a different way of enjoying beer.
