Co2 Cartridge For Growler Review (Updated | Mar 31st)
If you’re a craft beer lover who likes to keep your growler fresh and fizzy, you’ve probably wondered about the best way to maintain that perfect pour. CO2 cartridges have become a go-to solution, but not all are created equal. From size and durability to ease of use and compatibility, the options can be overwhelming. Let’s break down the top contenders so you can make an informed choice and enjoy crisp, carbonated beer every time—straight from your growler to your glass.
Key Takeaways
- The top pick ensures clean taste with its dual-use design and universal fit.
- Choose cartridges with a quick-release feature for easy, mess-free dispensing.
- Verify compatibility with your growler’s threading to ensure a secure fit.
- Opt for lightweight, portable options for convenient on-the-go use.
- Prioritize food-grade CO2 to maintain beverage quality and safety.
TrailKeg 16g Threaded CO2 Cartridges for Beverage Dispensing & Bike Tire Inflators – Food Grade Co2 Canisters for Growlers
Bike & Brew Hero
- Clean taste guaranteed
- Dual-use design
- Universal threaded fit
- BEST FOR RELIABLE UNTHREADED CHOICE: ICO C02 Read More ↓
- BEST FOR THREADED VERSATILITY: TrailKeg 16g Threaded CO2 Cartridges for Beverage Dispensing & Bike Tire Inflators – Food Grade Co2 Canisters for Growlers Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PURE BREW COMPANION: 16g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded Food Grade CO2 Cartridges for Kegs and Beer Dispensers Read More ↓
- BEST FOR CLEAN CARBONATION: RedRock Unthreaded 16 Gram CO2 Cartridges Read More ↓
- BEST FOR BIKE & BREW HERO: TrailKeg 16g Threaded CO2 Cartridges for Beverage Dispensing & Bike Tire Inflators – Food Grade Co2 Canisters for Growlers Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EXTENDED DRAFT POWER: RedRock 74 Gram CO2 Cartridges Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Co2 Cartridge For Growler
ICO C02, 10pcs, 16g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded, Food Grade CO2 Cartridges for Kegs and Beer Dispensers
ICO’s 16g CO2 cartridges are a reliable choice for beer enthusiasts who enjoy dispensing fresh draft beer on the go. These non-threaded cartridges are perfect for use with homebrew kegs, CO2 growlers, and portable beer dispensers like the GrowlerWerks uKeg.
Each of the 10 included cartridges contains 16 grams of food-grade, 100% pure CO2—odorless, colorless, and non-flammable—for safe and clean beer carbonation. Made from recyclable steel, they deliver consistent pressure at 900 PSI and are compatible with a wide range of non-threaded systems including Biermaxx and Mini Keg Party Star.
Backed by a two-year ICO quality guarantee, these cartridges offer peace of mind and dependable performance for homebrewers and outdoor adventurers alike.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Food-grade pure CO2
- Universal non-threaded fit
- Ideal for growlers
- Recyclable steel construction
- Trusted 2-year guarantee
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Not for threaded systems
- Limited to 10 count
- Slight risk of leakage
TrailKeg 16g Threaded CO2 Cartridges for Beverage Dispensing & Bike Tire Inflators – Food Grade Co2 Canisters for Growlers, Mini Kegs & MTB, 10-Pack
TrailKeg’s 16g threaded CO2 cartridges are designed for both beverage dispensing and bike tire inflation, making them a versatile addition to your outdoor gear. These food-grade CO2 cartridges are specifically built for threaded systems, ensuring a secure, leak-free connection with compatible growlers and portable kegs.
Each cartridge delivers 16 grams of high-purity CO2, ideal for maintaining optimal carbonation and pressure in growlers like the TrailKeg system. The threaded design reduces gas waste and improves safety during installation.
Packaged in a multi-pack, they’re great for camping, tailgating, or long weekends where reliable draft beer access is a must. Durable, efficient, and easy to use, they’re a smart upgrade for threaded CO2 users.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Secure threaded fit
- Dual-use versatility
- Leak-resistant connection
- High-purity food-grade CO2
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Threaded only, less universal
- Fewer compatible devices
- Pricier per unit
16g CO2 Cartridges Non-Threaded Food Grade CO2 Cartridges for Kegs and Beer Dispensers, Cocktail Seltzer, Kombucha, Craft Beer
These 16g unthreaded CO2 cartridges from Soyishi are perfect for beer lovers who enjoy fresh, carbonated brews on the go. Made with 100% food-grade CO2, they deliver clean, consistent pressure without additives, ensuring your growler-poured beer tastes just right.
Compatible with systems like GrowlerWerks uKeg and Biermaxx, they’re ideal for homebrew kegs and portable dispensers. Durable steel construction and a 60 bar/900 psi rating ensure reliable performance.
Backed by a two-year quality guarantee, they’re a trusted choice for outdoor events, camping, or backyard gatherings where traditional CO2 tanks aren’t practical.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Food-grade CO2 purity
- Works with popular growlers
- Durable steel build
- High pressure output
- Two-year quality guarantee
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Slightly pricey
- Not for threaded systems
- Single use
RedRock Unthreaded 16 Gram CO2 Cartridges, Food Grade Beverage Beer Keg Cartridge Chargers (10 Pack)
RedRock’s 16g unthreaded CO2 cartridges offer a reliable, food-grade solution for carbonating beverages anywhere. Each cartridge is filled with pure CO2, making them ideal for beer kegs, soda makers, and portable draft systems.
The unthreaded design ensures compatibility with a wide range of dispensers and mini kegs, providing consistent pressure for smooth pours. Individually sealed for freshness, these cartridges are leak-proof and retain full CO2 charge during storage.
Lightweight and easy to carry, they’re perfect for camping, parties, or homebrew setups where convenience and performance matter most.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Food-grade CO2
- Universal unthreaded fit
- Individually sealed
- Lightweight and portable
- Consistent carbonation
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 10-pack
- No long-term warranty
- Single use only
TrailKeg 16g Threaded CO2 Cartridges for Beverage Dispensing & Bike Tire Inflators – Food Grade Co2 Canisters for Growlers, Mini Kegs & MTB, 6-Pack
These 16g threaded CO2 cartridges from TrailKeg are a versatile solution for both beverage carbonation and bike tire inflation. Made with food-grade, non-lubricated CO2, they preserve the clean taste of craft beer, seltzers, kombucha, and more—perfect for use with growlers and mini kegs.
The 3/8-24 threaded connection ensures compatibility with most standard systems, including TrailKeg models and popular bike tire inflators. Lightweight and easy to use, they’re ideal for homebrewers and cyclists alike who need reliable, on-the-go carbonation or quick tire fixes.
Each cartridge delivers precise pressure with minimal effort, making them a dependable addition to outdoor adventures or brewing setups.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Clean taste guaranteed
- Dual-use design
- Universal threaded fit
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy quick-release use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Smaller capacity
- Limited to 16g
- Fewer fills per cartridge
RedRock 74 Gram CO2 Cartridges, Food Grade Threaded C02 Cartridge for Draft Beer, Kegerator Machine, and Portable Beverage System
The RedRock 74g CO2 cartridges are designed for those who need long-lasting, reliable carbonation for draft beer and beverage dispensing. With 74 grams of high-purity, food-grade CO2 per cartridge, they offer extended use—perfect for powering growler taps, kegerators, or mobile draft systems at events or in homebrew setups.
The standard 5/8″-18 UNF threaded fitting ensures broad compatibility with mini regulators and dispensers without requiring adapters. Packaged in a convenient 2-pack, these durable, leakproof cartridges provide consistent gas flow and are ideal for homebrewers, caterers, or bartenders who need dependable backup or portable CO2 solutions.
Their robust construction ensures safe, mess-free operation.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- High 74g capacity
- Long-lasting performance
- No adapter needed
- Durable leakproof build
- Great for mobile use
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Heavier than small cartridges
- Not for bike inflators
- Higher upfront cost
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What should I look for when choosing a CO2 cartridge for a growler?
Look for compatibility with your growler system, typically 16g or 20g threaded cartridges. Ensure the cartridge is food-grade to maintain beer quality and safety. Stainless steel models offer reusability and better long-term value over disposable aluminum ones.
How do reusable and disposable CO2 cartridges compare?
Disposable aluminum cartridges are convenient and widely available but must be replaced after use. Reusable stainless steel cartridges can be refilled, reducing waste and cost over time. For frequent users, reusable options offer better value and environmental benefits.
What features improve performance in a CO2 cartridge system?
A precision regulator allows consistent pressure control, preserving carbonation and pour quality. Look for leak-proof threading and pressure release valves for safety and efficiency. Integrated gauges help monitor remaining CO2, preventing unexpected depletion.
Are all CO2 cartridges compatible with every growler?
No, compatibility depends on the tap or dispensing system attached to the growler. Most use standard 16g or 20g CO2 cylinders with specific threading. Always check manufacturer specifications to ensure the cartridge fits your setup.
How important is CO2 capacity for a growler setup?
Capacity determines how many times you can dispense beer before needing a refill or replacement. A 16g cartridge typically serves one 64oz growler, while larger 20g or refillable systems support multiple uses. Choose based on your consumption frequency and portability needs.
What is the best value option for occasional users?
For infrequent use, disposable 16g cartridges offer low upfront cost and simplicity. They’re easy to find in outdoor and homebrew stores. The convenience outweighs the higher long-term cost for those who use them rarely.
Can temperature affect CO2 cartridge performance?
Yes, cold temperatures reduce CO2 pressure, leading to weak dispensing or incomplete pours. Store and use cartridges at room temperature for optimal performance. Avoid exposing them to direct heat or sunlight, which can increase pressure and risk leakage.
Do CO2 cartridges impact beer flavor?
Food-grade CO2 ensures no off-flavors are introduced during dispensing. Contaminated or industrial-grade gas can alter taste and aroma. Always use cartridges labeled for beverage use to maintain beer quality.