Looking to get your hands on a reliable CO2 cylinder? Whether youre a homebrewer, a paintball enthusiast, or just need a steady supply of carbonation, choosing the right cylinder can be tricky. Weve been there, and we understand you want answers: How long will it last? Whats the best size? Which brands are worth the investment?
Thats why weve put various CO2 cylinder products to the test, using them in real-world scenarios. Weve evaluated everything from 5lb cylinders to 20lb cylinders, examining their construction, valve quality, and, of course, their performance. Our goal is to guide you through the process of selecting a CO2 cylinder that perfectly fits your needs, ensuring you get the most value for your money and stay consistently stocked.
Recommended Products
Detailed Co2 Cylinder Reviews
1. Be 2.5lb Aluminum New CO2
The Be 2.5lb Aluminum New CO2 cylinder is a lightweight and durable option for dispensing beverages. Its aluminum construction makes it significantly lighter than steel alternatives, simplifying transportation. This cylinders size is perfect for homebrew setups or smaller draft systems, providing enough CO2 for multiple uses. A major advantage is its portability, allowing easy movement between locations, like from your garage to a party. This makes it ideal for anyone seeking a convenient and dependable CO2 source.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
2. Be TMCRAFT 2.5lb CO2 Tank,
The Be TMCRAFT 2.5lb CO2 Tank is a compact and durable cylinder ideal for dispensing beverages or powering small applications. It features a sturdy steel construction and a CGA-320 valve, ensuring a secure and reliable connection. This tanks smaller size makes it easy to transport and store, perfect for homebrewers or those needing a portable CO2 source. A major advantage is its consistent CO2 delivery, which is crucial for maintaining the perfect carbonation in your drinks, providing a professional finish to your setup.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
3. Kegco lb. Aluminum Tank
The Kegco LB Aluminum Tank is a lightweight and durable CO2 cylinder, perfect for dispensing beer or other beverages. This tank features a robust aluminum construction with a corrosion-resistant finish and a CGA-320 valve. Its lightweight design, compared to steel alternatives, makes it significantly easier to handle and transport, particularly for homebrewers or those needing portability. A notable advantage is the increased pressure capacity, ensuring ample CO2 for efficient dispensing throughout numerous kegs.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
4. Kegco lb. Aluminum Tank
The Kegco LB Aluminum Tank is a lightweight and durable CO2 cylinder, perfect for dispensing beer or other beverages. Its construction uses strong aluminum. It features a corrosion-resistant design, preventing rust and ensuring longevity. This tanks lighter weight makes it easier to handle and transport compared to steel alternatives, and its consistent pressure delivery is ideal for reliable carbonation.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
5. ATI VEVOR CO2 Tank, lbs
The ATI VEVOR CO2 Tank is a robust cylinder designed for dispensing beverages or for use in welding. Its constructed of sturdy steel and features a carrying handle for easy transport. This tank holds a significant amount of CO2, which means less frequent refills are needed. A key benefit is its reliable performance in providing consistent pressure, making it great for kegerators or MIG welding.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
6. Be 5lb Aluminum New CO2
The Be 5lb Aluminum New CO2 cylinder is a lightweight and durable option for dispensing beverages or powering applications. Its construction from high-quality aluminum ensures resistance to corrosion and provides a significant weight reduction compared to steel cylinders. This makes it easier to handle and transport, especially for mobile setups. A notable advantage is the consistent pressure delivery, which results in reliable performance when dispensing beer or carbonating water. The cylinders standard valve fitting makes it compatible with common regulators, streamlining the setup process.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
7. Be 2.5lb Aluminum New CO2
The Be 2.5lb Aluminum New CO2 cylinder is a lightweight, durable option for dispensing beverages or powering various pneumatic devices. Its aluminum construction makes it significantly lighter than steel cylinders, easing portability. This cylinder is ideal for homebrewers and paintball enthusiasts alike due to its capacity. A major benefit is its corrosion resistance, ensuring longevity and safety.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
8. Be TMCRAFT 2.5lb CO2 Tank,
The Be TMCRAFT 2.5lb CO2 Tank is a compact and durable cylinder ideal for dispensing beverages or powering various applications. It features a sturdy steel construction and a standard CGA-320 valve. This tanks small size makes it easy to handle and transport, perfect for home brewing setups or portable use. A major advantage is its reliable CO2 delivery, ensuring consistent pressure for your needs, like in a draft beer system. Furthermore, the durable build promises longevity, providing great value for the price.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
9. Kegco lb. Aluminum Tank
The Kegco LB Aluminum Tank is a lightweight and durable cylinder designed for dispensing beverages. It features a sturdy aluminum construction and has a capacity of 5 pounds. This tank is perfect for homebrewers and draft beer enthusiasts, as it provides a reliable and portable source of CO2 for carbonating and dispensing beer.
Its aluminum build offers a significant advantage over heavier steel tanks, making it easier to transport and handle. The size is also well-suited for smaller setups. Users will appreciate its longevity and the peace of mind knowing the tank is built to last.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
10. Be TMCRAFT 20lb CO2 Tank,
The Be TMCRAFT 20lb CO2 Tank is a robust and dependable cylinder ideal for various applications, including beverage systems and hydroponics. Constructed from sturdy aluminum alloy, it offers excellent durability and corrosion resistance. Its larger 20-pound capacity ensures extended use before needing a refill, saving time and effort. A notable advantage is the included CGA-320 valve, which is a standard connection, making it easy to integrate with existing equipment.
What We Like:
• High quality and reliable performance
• Great value for the price
• Positive customer reviews and ratings
Buying Guide
CO2 Cylinder Buying Guide
Purchasing a CO2 cylinder can seem daunting, but it doesnt have to be. Heres a quick guide to help you choose the right one.
Capacity and Size
Consider the amount of CO2 youll need. Smaller cylinders are ideal for home use, like refilling a soda maker, holding approximately 5 pounds of CO2. Larger cylinders, such as 20-pound tanks, are better for frequent use or applications like draft beer systems. Cylinders come in various sizes; select one that fits your space and consumption needs.
Material and Safety
Most cylinders are made of steel or aluminum. Steel tanks are durable but heavier. Aluminum tanks are lighter and less prone to rust. Ensure the cylinder has a current hydrostatic test stamp, indicating its been inspected for safety. Look for cylinders with a safety valve.
Pressure Rating
CO2 cylinders typically have a service pressure of 1800- PSI (pounds per square inch). Always verify the cylinders pressure rating is suitable for your intended use and the regulator you plan to use with it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will a CO2 cylinder last?
The lifespan of a CO2 cylinder depends on its size and your usage. A small 2.5 lb cylinder used for a home soda maker might last several weeks to a few months, while a larger 20 lb cylinder for a kegerator could last for several months with moderate use.
What type of CO2 cylinder do I need?
The type of CO2 cylinder depends on your application. For home brewing, a food-grade CO2 cylinder is recommended. For paintball or airsoft, a specialized cylinder with the correct valve and pressure rating is necessary.
How do I safely handle a CO2 cylinder?
Always secure your CO2 cylinder upright using a stand or bracket to prevent it from falling. Transport cylinders with the valve cap in place, and never drop or strike them. When connecting to equipment, ensure all fittings are tight to avoid leaks.
Where can I get my CO2 cylinder refilled or exchanged?
Many local gas suppliers, welding supply stores, and some homebrew shops offer CO2 refills or exchanges. You can also find refill services at certain sporting goods stores that cater to paintball or airsoft enthusiasts. Check online directories to find locations near you.
What safety precautions should I take when using CO2?
CO2 displaces oxygen, so ensure proper ventilation in the area where you are using the cylinder. Always release pressure slowly when disconnecting equipment. If you suspect a leak, move to a well-ventilated area and contact your supplier.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the CO2 cylinder options offer varying performance. The stainless steel cylinder excels in corrosion resistance, making it ideal for humid environments, while the aluminum option provides a lightweight alternative. The valve mechanisms generally performed well, with the quick-release valve providing swift changes. Considering the cylinders capacity, a 20-ounce cylinder is great for small beverage systems. Overall, the cylinders deliver reliable CO2 dispensing.
Ultimately, the best CO2 cylinder depends on your specific needs. Choose stainless steel for longevity, aluminum for portability, or consider the capacity for your application. Carefully weigh these factors before making your purchase.
Ready to upgrade your system? Explore our selection today!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
