If you’re a homebrewer, you know the importance of having the best conical fermenter for making great beer. Compared to other fermenters, conical fermenters are the go-to for many homebrewers because they offer a range of benefits that other types of fermenters cannot match.
Not only do they simplify the fermentation process, but they also help to produce a better-tasting beer. But with so many options on the market, how do you choose the best conical fermenter for your homebrewing needs?
In this blog post, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of conical fermenters, exploring what they are, how they work, and what makes them so special. We’ll also review some of the best conical fermenters on the market and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about which one to buy. Whether you’re an experienced homebrewer or just starting out, this post will be your ultimate guide to conical fermenters.
So, if you’re ready to take your homebrewing game to the next level and produce some of the best beer you’ve ever tasted, keep reading. By the end of this post, you’ll have a solid understanding of what makes a great conical fermenter and which ones are worth investing in.
Related article: Fermenters vs Fermentors
What is the Best Conical Fermenter for Homebrewing?
| Fermenter | Price | Material | Best Seller | Ease in Cleaning | Other Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FermZilla Conical Fermenter | $$ | PET Plastic | Yes | Easy | Pressure-rated, Transparent, Large Capacity |
| Ss Brewtech Brew Bucket Fermenter; Stainless Steel (3.5 Gallon) | $$$ | Stainless Steel | Yes | Easy | 304 Stainless Steel, Compact Size, Optional Accessories |
| Catalyst Fermentation System | $$$ | Tritan Polymer | No | Easy | Clear Body, Compact Size, Easy Transfer |
| BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter | $ | PET Plastic | No | Easy | Compact Size, Lightweight, Includes Accessories |
| Brew Bucket Fermentor 304SS Conical Fermenter | $$$ | Stainless Steel | No | Easy | 304 Stainless Steel, Easy to Clean, Compact Size |
| Delta Brewing Systems FermTank | $$$$ | Stainless Steel | No | Easy | 304 Stainless Steel, High Capacity, Compact Size |
| Spike Conical Unitank | $$$$$ | Stainless Steel | No | Moderate | 304 Stainless Steel, High Capacity, Temperature Control Capabilities |
Note: Price ranges are based on a relative scale and may vary based on location and vendor. Ease in cleaning is based on customer reviews and may vary based on individual experiences. “Best Seller” is based on Amazon’s best-selling list as of February 2023.
FermZilla Conical Fermenter
The FermZilla Conical Fermenter is a high-quality, pressure-rated, and transparent fermenter made of PET plastic that can hold up to 7.1 gallons (27 liters) of liquid. It features a conical bottom with a 60-degree angle that allows for the collection of yeast and sediment at the bottom, making it easy to separate the beer from the sediment. It also has a stainless steel ball valve and a collection jar that allows you to easily transfer your beer to a secondary fermenter or a keg.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
Compared to the other fermenters, the FermZilla Conical Fermenter stands out due to its transparency, pressure rating, and large capacity. Unlike some of the other fermenters made of stainless steel, the FermZilla allows you to see the fermentation process, making it easier to monitor and adjust as necessary. Additionally, its pressure rating allows for carbonation and dispensing directly from the fermenter, saving time and effort.
Pros
- Transparent design allows for easy monitoring of the fermentation process
- Pressure-rated for carbonation and dispensing directly from the fermenter
- Large capacity of 7.1 gallons (27 liters)
- Easy to clean due to its smooth surface and removable components
- Can be used as a secondary fermenter or a keg
Cons
- Made of plastic, which may not appeal to some brewers who prefer stainless steel fermenters
- Some customers have reported issues with the lid seal, which can lead to leaks and spills
Recommendation:
Overall, the FermZilla Conical Fermenter is an excellent choice for homebrewers looking for a high-quality, transparent, and pressure-rated fermenter with a large capacity. Its unique design and features make it stand out from the other fermenters in this article Although it is made of plastic, it is durable and easy to clean, and the benefits it provides make it a worthwhile investment for any homebrewer.
Ss Brewtech Brew Bucket Fermenter; Stainless Steel (3.5 Gallon)
The Ss Brewtech Brew Bucket Fermenter is a top-of-the-line stainless steel fermenter with a conical bottom and a capacity of 3.5 gallons (13 liters). It features a sturdy lid with a silicone seal, a rotating racking arm, and a ball valve for easy transfer of beer. It is made of high-quality 304 stainless steel, which is durable and easy to clean.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
Compared to the other fermenters in the table, the Ss Brewtech Brew Bucket Fermenter stands out for its high-quality stainless steel construction and compact size. Its 3.5-gallon capacity makes it ideal for small-batch brewing, and its rotating racking arm allows for easy transfer of beer without disturbing the sediment. However, its size and capacity may not be suitable for some homebrewers who prefer larger batches.
Pros
- High-quality 304 stainless steel construction for durability and ease of cleaning
- Compact size for small-batch brewing and easy storage
- Rotating racking arm for easy transfer of beer without disturbing sediment
- Sturdy lid with silicone seal to prevent leaks
Cons
- Small capacity may not be suitable for all homebrewers
- Higher price point compared to other fermenters on the list
Recommendation:
Overall, the Ss Brewtech Brew Bucket Fermenter is an excellent choice for homebrewers looking for a compact, high-quality stainless steel fermenter for small-batch brewing. Its rotating racking arm and ball valve make it easy to transfer the beer, and its sturdy lid and silicone seal prevents leaks and spills. Although it is more expensive than some of the other fermenters on the list, its high-quality construction and ease of use make it a worthwhile investment for serious homebrewers.
Catalyst Fermentation System
The Catalyst Fermentation System is a unique and innovative conical fermenter designed with the homebrewer in mind. It is made of high-quality food-grade polymer and has a 6.5-gallon (24.6 liters) capacity. It features a conical bottom with a removable, clear plastic vessel that allows for easy harvesting of yeast and trub. It also includes a bottling attachment for easy bottling and a carrying handle for easy transportation.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
Compared to the other fermenters in the table, the Catalyst Fermentation System stands out for its innovative design and affordable price point. Its plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to handle, and its conical bottom allows for easy harvesting of yeast and trub.
However, its plastic construction may not be as durable as stainless steel, and some homebrewers may prefer the traditional look and feel of a stainless steel fermenter.
Pros
Unique and innovative design with a removable plastic vessel for easy yeast and trub harvesting
Bottling attachment for easy bottling
Affordable price point compared to other fermenters on the list
Lightweight and easy to handle
Cons
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as stainless steel
- Some homebrewers may prefer the traditional look and feel of a stainless steel fermenter
- Limited capacity compared to some of the other fermenters on the list
Recommendation:
The Catalyst Fermentation System is an excellent choice for homebrewers looking for an innovative and affordable conical fermenter. Its plastic construction makes it lightweight and easy to handle, and its conical bottom allows for easy harvesting of yeast and trub. However, it may not be as durable as a stainless steel fermenter, and some homebrewers may prefer the traditional look and feel of a stainless steel fermenter. Overall, the Catalyst Fermentation System is a great choice for those looking for a unique and functional fermenter at an affordable price point.
BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter
The BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter is a 3-gallon (11.4 liters) conical fermenter made of durable and clear plastic material that allows you to observe the fermentation process. It features a conical bottom with a removable collection ball for easy yeast and trub removal and a bottling spigot for easy bottling. The BrewDemon fermenter also comes with a stick-on temperature gauge and a bottle filler.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
Compared to the other fermenters in the table, the BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter stands out for its clear plastic material that allows you to observe the fermentation process. It also has a lower capacity compared to some of the other fermenters on the list. Its plastic construction may not be as durable as stainless steel, but it is more affordable.
Pros
- Clear plastic material allows for easy observation of the fermentation process
- Removable collection ball for easy yeast and trub removal
- Bottling spigot for easy bottling
- Comes with a stick-on temperature gauge and a bottle filler
- More affordable compared to stainless steel fermenters
Cons
- Plastic construction may not be as durable as stainless steel
- Lower capacity compared to some of the other fermenters on the list
- Clear plastic material may not be preferred by some homebrewers who prefer a traditional stainless steel look and feel
Recommendation
The BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter is an excellent choice for homebrewers who want to observe the fermentation process and prefer a more affordable option. It has a conical bottom with a removable collection ball for easy yeast and trub removal, and a bottling spigot for easy bottling.
The included stick-on temperature gauge and bottle filler are also great additions. However, the plastic construction may not be as durable as a stainless steel fermenter, and the lower capacity may not be sufficient for larger batches. Overall, the BrewDemon Clear Conical Fermenter is a great choice for those on a budget who want to observe the fermentation process.
Brew Bucket Fermentor 304SS Conical Fermenter
The Brew Bucket Fermentor 304SS Conical Fermenter is a 7-gallon (26.5 liters) stainless steel conical fermenter with a conical bottom for easy yeast and trub removal. It also features a rotatable racking arm and a ball valve for easy transferring and sampling, and a domed lid with a silicone seal to prevent oxygen exposure during fermentation. The Brew Bucket Fermentor also has a sturdy carrying handle for easy transport.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
Compared to the other fermenters in the table, the Brew Bucket Fermentor stands out for its high-quality stainless steel construction, larger capacity, and rotatable racking arm. It is also more affordable compared to some of the other stainless steel fermenters on the list.
Pros
- High-quality 304 stainless steel construction for durability and easy cleaning
- Conical bottom for easy yeast and trub removal
- Rotatable racking arm and ball valve for easy transferring and sampling
- Domed lid with a silicone seal to prevent oxygen exposure during fermentation
- Larger capacity compared to some of the other fermenters on the list
- Sturdy carrying handle for easy transport
- More affordable compared to some of the other stainless steel fermenters on the list
Cons
- Some users may prefer a clear plastic material to observe the fermentation process
- The racking arm may be prone to clogging if not cleaned properly
Recommendation
The Brew Bucket Fermentor 304SS Conical Fermenter is an excellent choice for homebrewers who want a high-quality stainless steel fermenter with a larger capacity and easy yeast and trub removal.
The rotatable racking arm and ball valve make transferring and sampling easy, while the domed lid with a silicone seal prevents oxygen exposure during fermentation. The sturdy carrying handle also makes it easy to transport. While some users may prefer a clear plastic material to observe the fermentation process, the stainless steel construction provides durability and easy cleaning.
The racking arm may be prone to clogging if not cleaned properly, but this can be easily avoided with proper cleaning. Overall, the Brew Bucket Fermentor is a great choice for homebrewers who want a high-quality, affordable, and efficient fermenter.
Delta Brewing Systems FermTank
The Delta Brewing Systems FermTank fermenter is a high-quality conical fermenter that is made from food-grade 304 stainless steel. It has a 7-gallon capacity and features a unique design that allows you to remove the lid and dump in your ingredients with ease. The conical shape of the fermenter allows for the trub to settle at the bottom, making it easy to remove and resulting in clearer beer.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
The Delta Brewing Systems FermTank fermenter is a mid-range option in terms of price, and it has a larger capacity than some of the other fermenters on the list. It is made from high-quality stainless steel, which is a durable and long-lasting material. It also has a unique design that allows for easy ingredient dumping and trub removal.
Pros
- It has a unique design, which makes it easy to use and clean.
- The stainless steel construction is also a plus, as it is durable and long-lasting.
- The conical shape of the fermenter allows for clear beer, and the large capacity means that you can brew more beer at once.
Cons
- It is more expensive than some of the other options on the list.
- The 7-gallon capacity may be too large for some homebrewers who are only brewing small batches of beer.
Recommendation
Overall, the Delta Brewing Systems FermTank fermenter is a great option for homebrewers who want a high-quality conical fermenter that is easy to use and clean. While it may be more expensive than some of the other options on the list, the stainless steel construction and unique design make it a worthwhile investment for serious homebrewers. The larger capacity is also a plus, as it allows you to brew more beer at once.
Spike Conical Unitank
The Spike Conical Unitank fermentor is a premium quality conical fermenter made from high-grade 304 stainless steel. It has a unique design that makes it suitable for both homebrewers and commercial brewers.
The fermenter is available in different sizes ranging from 7 gallons to 1 barrel (31 gallons). It features a dual-function lid that can be used as an airlock or blowoff valve, and a built-in thermowell for accurate temperature monitoring. The conical design allows for easy yeast collection and trub removal, and it comes with a rotating racking arm for convenient transfers.
How it compares with the other conical fermenters
The Spike Conical Unitank fermentor is one of the most expensive fermenters in the market, but it’s also one of the best in terms of quality and features. It’s made from high-grade stainless steel, which makes it durable and easy to clean.
Unlike other fermenters that come with plastic valves and fittings, the Spike Conical Unitank fermentor comes with high-quality stainless steel valves and fittings, which are more durable and sanitary.
It also has a unique design that makes it suitable for both homebrewers and commercial brewers.
Pros
- It has high-quality construction, durable stainless steel valves and fittings, a built-in thermowell for temperature monitoring, and a unique dual-function lid.
- It also has a conical design that allows for easy yeast collection and trub removal, and it comes with a rotating racking arm for convenient transfers.
- The fermenter is available in different sizes to suit the needs of both homebrewers and commercial brewers.
Cons
- The Spike Conical Unitank fermentor is pricy: The price is significantly higher than other fermenters on the market.
- It’s also relatively heavy, which can make it difficult to move around.
- some users have reported issues with the lid seal, which can cause air leaks during fermentation.
Recommendation
Overall, the Spike Conical Unitank fermentor is a high-quality fermenter that is suitable for both homebrewers and commercial brewers. It has several features that make it stand out from other fermenters on the market, including its durable stainless steel construction, built-in thermowell for temperature monitoring, and unique dual-function lid. However, its high price may make it less accessible to some homebrewers. If you’re a serious brewer looking for a premium quality fermenter that will last you for years, the Spike Conical Unitank fermentor is definitely worth considering.
What is a Conical Fermenter?
A conical fermenter is a specialized brewing vessel used by homebrewers and commercial breweries to ferment beer, wine, cider, and other fermented beverages. It has a unique conical shape that allows for better fermentation and separation of sediment from the finished product. Conical fermenters come in various sizes and materials, including plastic and stainless steel.
Why conical fermenters are the best (advantages)
Conical fermenters offer several advantages over traditional fermentation vessels. The conical shape allows for better yeast propagation and fermentation, as the yeast can settle at the bottom of the cone and be easily removed.
Additionally, the shape promotes better oxygenation of the wort, leading to healthier yeast and improved flavor profiles.
Conical fermenters are also easier to sanitize and clean, which is essential for preventing contamination and ensuring a consistent product.
Advantages and disadvantages of Plastic Conical fermenters vs Stainless steel
Homebrewers have several choices when it comes to fermenters, and the two most popular options are plastic and stainless steel conical fermenters. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. In this article, we will focus on the advantages of plastic conical fermenters over stainless steel fermenters.
- Cost: One of the most significant advantages of plastic conical fermenters over stainless steel fermenters is their cost. Plastic fermenters are typically less expensive than their stainless steel counterparts. Homebrewers on a budget can get a high-quality conical fermenter for a fraction of the cost of a stainless steel fermenter.
- Lightweight: Another benefit of plastic conical fermenters is that they are much lighter than stainless steel fermenters. This makes them easier to handle and move around. It also means that they are less likely to tip over or get damaged during transportation.
- Easy to Clean: Cleaning is an essential part of the brewing process, and plastic conical fermenters are easy to clean. They are non-porous, so they won’t absorb any odors or flavors from the previous batch. Plastic fermenters are also dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze.
- No Rust: Stainless steel fermenters are prone to rusting, especially if they are not properly maintained. Rust can cause the beer to have off-flavors and can even lead to contamination. Plastic conical fermenters do not rust, so there is no need to worry about this issue.
- Temperature Regulation: Plastic conical fermenters have better temperature regulation than stainless steel fermenters. This is because plastic is an insulator and does not conduct heat as well as stainless steel. This means that the temperature inside the fermenter is more stable, which is essential for a consistent brew.
Disadvantages of Plastic Conical Fermenters vs Stainless Steel Fermenters
- Durability: While plastic conical fermenters are less expensive than stainless steel fermenters, they are not as durable. Over time, the plastic can become brittle and crack, especially if it is exposed to UV light. Stainless steel fermenters, on the other hand, are built to last a lifetime.
- Oxygen Permeability: Another disadvantage of plastic conical fermenters is that they are more permeable to oxygen than stainless steel fermenters. Oxygen can cause off-flavors in the beer and can even lead to contamination. Homebrewers who use plastic fermenters need to be vigilant about keeping the airlock topped up to prevent oxygen from entering the fermenter.
- Scratch Resistance: Plastic conical fermenters are not as scratch-resistant as stainless steel fermenters. Scratches in plastic can provide a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to contamination. It is essential to be careful when cleaning plastic fermenters to avoid scratching the surface.
- Aesthetic: Appeal Stainless steel fermenters have a certain aesthetic appeal that plastic fermenters do not. For many homebrewers, the look of the fermenter is almost as important as its function. If aesthetics are important to you, a stainless steel fermenter may be the better choice.
Plastic conical fermenters are generally less expensive and more lightweight than their stainless steel counterparts. They are also easier to handle and transport, making them an excellent choice for homebrewers with limited space. However, plastic fermenters may be more prone to scratching and scuffing, which can harbor bacteria and other contaminants.
Stainless steel conical fermenters, on the other hand, are more durable and longer-lasting than plastic fermenters. They are also less prone to scratching and scuffing, making them easier to sanitize and keep clean. However, they are typically more expensive and heavier, making them less portable and more challenging to handle.
Conclusion
Overall, conical fermenters offer several advantages over traditional fermentation vessels, including better yeast propagation and oxygenation, improved flavor profiles, and easier cleaning and sanitizing. When choosing a conical fermenter, homebrewers should consider their budget, available space, and brewing needs to determine whether a plastic or stainless steel fermenter is the best option for them.
In conclusion, both plastic and stainless steel conical fermenters have their pros and cons. Homebrewers on a budget or those who want a lightweight and easy-to-clean option may prefer plastic conical fermenters. However, those who prioritize durability, oxygen permeability, scratch resistance, and aesthetic appeal may opt for stainless steel fermenters. Ultimately, the choice depends on personal preference, budget, and brewing goals.
