What To Know
- If you want a more permanent solution for your home or bar, a kegerator is a better option.
- A jockey box is a portable device that chills and dispenses beer, while a kegerator is a refrigerator that is specifically designed to store and dispense beer kegs.
When it comes to enjoying ice-cold beer on tap, you have two main options: a jockey box or a kegerator. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully before making a decision.
Jockey Box: The Portable Option
A jockey box is a portable device that chills and dispenses beer. It’s typically made of stainless steel and has a built-in ice reservoir. To use a jockey box, you simply fill the reservoir with ice, connect it to a keg of beer, and start pouring.
Advantages of a Jockey Box:
- Portability: Jockey boxes are lightweight and easy to transport, making them ideal for tailgating, picnics, and other outdoor events.
- Quick cooling: Jockey boxes can chill beer quickly, so you can enjoy cold beer in minutes.
- No electricity required: Jockey boxes do not require electricity, making them convenient for use in remote locations.
Disadvantages of a Jockey Box:
- Limited capacity: Jockey boxes typically hold only one keg at a time.
- Ice required: Jockey boxes require ice to chill beer, so you’ll need to keep a supply on hand.
- Can be bulky: Jockey boxes can be bulky and difficult to store.
Kegerator: The Homebrew Haven
A kegerator is a refrigerator that is specifically designed to store and dispense beer kegs. Kegerators typically have a built-in CO2 tank and regulator, which allows you to control the pressure and temperature of the beer.
Advantages of a Kegerator:
- Larger capacity: Kegerators can hold multiple kegs at a time, so you can have a variety of beers on tap.
- Consistent temperature: Kegerators maintain a consistent temperature, ensuring that your beer is always chilled to perfection.
- Longer shelf life: Beer stored in a kegerator has a longer shelf life than beer stored in a jockey box.
Disadvantages of a Kegerator:
- Requires electricity: Kegerators require electricity to operate, so they are not suitable for use in remote locations.
- More expensive: Kegerators are more expensive than jockey boxes.
- Less portable: Kegerators are not portable, so they are best suited for use in a home or bar setting.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The best option for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a portable option for outdoor events, a jockey box is a great choice. If you want a more permanent solution for your home or bar, a kegerator is a better option.
Jockey Box vs Kegerator: Key Differences
To help you make a more informed decision, here is a table summarizing the key differences between jockey boxes and kegerators:
| Feature | Jockey Box | Kegerator |
| — | — | — |
| Portability | Yes | No |
| Capacity | 1 keg | Multiple kegs |
| Cooling method | Ice | CO2 |
| Temperature control | Manual | Automatic |
| Shelf life | Short | Long |
| Price | Less expensive | More expensive |
Jockey Box vs Kegerator: Pros and Cons
Here is a more detailed look at the pros and cons of each option:
Jockey Box Pros:
- Portable
- Quick cooling
- No electricity required
- Less expensive
Jockey Box Cons:
- Limited capacity
- Ice required
- Can be bulky
Kegerator Pros:
- Larger capacity
- Consistent temperature
- Longer shelf life
- More convenient
Kegerator Cons:
- Requires electricity
- More expensive
- Less portable
Jockey Box vs Kegerator: Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best way to decide which option is right for you is to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you need a portable option for outdoor events, a jockey box is a great choice. If you want a more permanent solution for your home or bar, a kegerator is a better option.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a jockey box and a kegerator?
A jockey box is a portable device that chills and dispenses beer, while a kegerator is a refrigerator that is specifically designed to store and dispense beer kegs.
2. Which is better, a jockey box or a kegerator?
The best option depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you need a portable option for outdoor events, a jockey box is a great choice. If you want a more permanent solution for your home or bar, a kegerator is a better option.
3. How much does a jockey box cost?
Jockey boxes typically cost between $100 and $300.
4. How much does a kegerator cost?
Kegerators typically cost between $500 and $2,000.
5. How long does beer last in a jockey box?
Beer stored in a jockey box will typically last for 2-3 days.
6. How long does beer last in a kegerator?
Beer stored in a kegerator will typically last for 2-3 weeks.
