Homebrew Unitank Comparison
I love walking into a tap room for the first time and immediately being hit with the recognizable aromas that so often fill my own brewing space.
Wort boiling, fermentations cranking along, and raw ingredient smells filling the air means that the beer I’m going to be served is fresh. But the smell of a brew day in the tap room also means the brewing space is nearby and there’s a good chance I’m going to be able to see where and how the beer is made. Nothing beats sipping on a brew while gazing at a brewery’s equipment — from nano-sized operations with one or two fermenters next to a kettle and mash tun, to those with rows of giant conical fermenters stretching high into the air like Corinthian columns. The fermenters are usually the first thing to catch my eye — they’re shiny and full of gadgets, gauges, sight glasses, and ports . . . they seem to blur the line between brewery equipment and art.
Of course, you don’t need to visit a pro brewery to admire them. Homebrewers have access to the same type of unitank fermenters, and their popularity has grown tremendously over the past decade so the options available have a wide range of features, add-on components, and price points.
Unitanks are the top tier fermenter option for homebrewers. They open the door of opportunity with the multi-functionality they offer. They hold pressure, which allows homebrewers to carbonate in the fermenter or do pressurized fermentations to suppress esters or create lager-like beers at ale fermentation temperature. Those with conical designs make trub and yeast management easy, and many include dump ports that allow homebrewers to remove the trub while conditioning and to harvest yeast for additional use. Closed transfers can be done easily, minimizing oxygen contact with your beer. And these are just the basics.
For this compilation, we gathered information on the most popular pressurizable unitanks available to homebrewers in North America so readers can compare their advertised features. From the size and price point to included or available accessories, number of ports, valve sizes and more, there is a lot to consider when choosing a unitank that meets your needs. We hope this helps clarify what you get with each option.
Blichmann Cornical™ Unitank
The Cornical™ Unitank is a 7-gallon (26.5-L) pressurized tank with the unique design of a full-featured conical bottom clamped to a Cornelius-style keg top. Rated for 50-PSI pressure capability, the CornicalTM Unitank retails for $467.99. Blichmann Engineering also offers the modular keg and the conical fermentation kit as separate products for added versatility. The keg system has a removable bottom to allow easy access when cleaning. The conical bottom clamps onto the keg to convert it to the pressure-fermenter, so if you have multiple kegs you can use one fermentation kit and switch the unitank bottom to a regular keg bottom after fermentation is complete for easy serving from a kegerator. It also features a rotating racking arm, 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) butterfly dump valve for yeast harvesting and trub dumping, and a traditional Corny-style keg lid. Available add-ons include a spunding valve and a keg wall hanger.
Blichmann Fermenator™ G4
The Fermenator™ G4 is the latest iteration of the first pressure-capable conical to hit the homebrew market back in 2004. It comes in four sizes ranging from 7 gallon/26.5 L ($768.99) up to one barrel ($1,538.99). Each features welded 1.5-inch (38-mm) tri-clamp fittings, an aseptic racking valve that can be filled with sanitizer between uses so all wet surfaces remain sanitized, an external level gauge, and is rated for pressure up to 15 PSI. It has a brushed exterior that is easy to keep free of stains and fingerprints and a polished interior. It comes with the pressure relief valve, tri-clamp thermometer, and a lifetime warranty. Additional features sold separately include a tri-clamp blow-off tube, caster set, leg extensions, cooling coil, carb stone, and Clean-In-Place set.
Bräu Supply Unitank
This professional-style, 304 stainless steel jacketed unitank comes in four sizes from an 8-gallon capacity up to 39 gallons (30- to 150-L) and ranges in price from $1,800–$2,500. It features a liquid-filled jacket for precise temperature control with a glycol unit that can be bought separately. It features adjustable legs, a rotating racking arm for beer transfers, a sample valve for easy testing during fermentation, an analog pressure gauge (0–30 PSI) for pressure monitoring and a 15-PSI pressure reducing valve for controlled fermentation. The smaller size features a 6-inch (15-cm) tri-clamp cap (larger models have an 8-inch/20-cm cap) as well as 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp racking port, and a 2-inch (5-cm) tri-clamp dump port, as well as numerous other ports to fit all of your needs. It also comes with a stainless blow-off assembly and drop-in ruler with volume markings. Sold separately is a compatible oxygen-free HopDrop for dry hopping, beer transfer kit, carbonation stone, and kits for Clean-In-Place and temperature control.
BrewBuilt® X2 & X3 Uni Conical Fermenters
These fermenters made from 304 stainless steel feature mirror polish inside and out. The X2 is available in 7-gallons (26.5 L) for $770, while the X3 is available in four sizes from 7–38 gallons (26.5–144 L) with prices ranging from $1,210–$2,200. The X2 has a 2-inch (5-cm) bottom port and butterfly valve, and three horizontal ports on the cone for the racking arm, carb stone, and thermometer. It features a four-leg, reinforced base for maximum stability with adjustable feet, and has a 4-inch (10-cm) tri-clamp lid. Inside the tank are etched volume markings.
The X3 has a larger 8-inch (20-cm) tri-clamp lid and scaled-up 3-inch (7.5-cm) bottom port and butterfly valve with a tri-clamp Clear Flex Chamber Bottom Dump that allows you to see fermentation and remove trub, or harvest yeast. The X3 also includes more features such as a built-in external cooling jacket with 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp ports and a neoprene jacket for insulation. It includes the Pressure Pack lid with floating dip tube (available as an accessory in the X2), draft-style quick-disconnect connections for sampling/serving, and an extra 1.5-tri-clamp port for dry hopping. Both the X2 and X3 have a built-in 15-PSI pressure relief valve (though an optional pressure fermentation kit is required for pressurized fermentations).
BREWHA BIAC®
The BIAC® (Brew In A Conical) is more than just a jacketed fermenter, it’s an entire brewing system as well. It is the only system of its kind that allows you to mash, boil, and ferment in a single portable unit. The polished stainless steel BIAC® comes in 8-, 14-, and 20-gallon (30-, 54-, and 76-L) capacities ranging in price from $ 4,516.47–6,309.79. All are available in 240V electric, while the smallest size is also available in 120V. The system comes with a mash colander to hold the grain, pump, valves, fittings, and touchscreen temperature controller. The fermenter tank has a 14.9-PSI pressure rating (7 PSI in the jacket) to be used as a brite tank or serving vessel. It features three legs with casters, a pressure and vacuum safety relief valve, hop basket for dry hopping, and a water pressure regulator to limit the flow in the jacket when cooling. Sold separately is an accessory kit that includes Clean-In-Place assembly, flow meter, bottom valve upgrade, fermenter gas-in post, temperature control valve, mash mixer, and more. If preferred, the base unitank (minus the equipment to make it an all-in-one brewing system) can be bought separately in each size, ranging in price from $1,512.53–2,180.53.
Brewtools® F40 & F80 Unitanks
The Norwegian Brewtools® F40 has a recommended volume of 5.2–10.5 gallons (20–40 L) and features a cooling jacket in the vertical walls and a neoprene insulation jacket. It is pressure-rated up to 30 PSI (15-PSI operating pressure) with an 8-inch (20-cm) tri-clamp port on top and 2-inch (5-cm) dump and racking valves. It has Brewtools’ patented PureBlastTM 1.5-mm stainless steel surface inside and out that forgoes the need to passivate. It also has four adjustable legs, allowing it to stand from 33–41 inches (83–103 cm) in height. The unit includes a sample valve, pressure release valve, and numerous options for connecting accessories sold separately that include thermowells for sensors, carb stone kit, a sight glass, spunding valve, sample valve, HopDrop kit, and more. It retails for $1,999.
The F80 is the larger model with a capacity up to 19.8 gallons (75 L) and an adjustable height from 43–51 inches (110–130 cm). It retails for $2,199.
Brewtools also sells a “Light” version of each with the same tank body but slightly less equipment and some parts made from polyketone (POK). The F40 Light is $1,399 and the F80 Light is $1,599. Brewtools is distributed in North America by MoreBeer!
Custom Fermentations JF8 Unitank
This fully customizable 8-gallon (30-L) unitank is made from 3-mm 304 stainless steel. Homebrewers may choose from popular pre-configured models or build a base tank from the ground up with the accessories that fit their needs and budget. It features a built-in cooling jacket and 100% sanitary tri-clamp connections. It advertises a 15-PSI working pressure (30-PSI max pressure) and includes a 5-mm neoprene insulation jacket. It has three legs and a 6-inch (15-cm) port at the top with an optional 6- to 3-inch (15- to 7.5-cm) reducer for large dry hop additions, Clean-In-Place system, or floating dip tube assembly. It features numerous 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) ports on the sides and cone for accessories and a 2-inch (5-cm) bottom dump port. The base tank (pictured on the left) is $899.99 or you can buy it with all of the accessories (on the right) for $1,619.99, or anywhere in between.
Delta Brewing Systems Fermtank Pro Series
Available in three sizes with capacities of 8, 14, and 19 gallons (30, 53, and 72 L), the stainless steel Fermtank Pro series holds pressure up to 15 PSI. The lid contains two 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp ports and a 4-inch (10-cm) tri-clamp port. It has a 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp dump port and a 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp thermowell on the body with an included digital thermometer. Other 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp fittings are on the cone for accessories. Inside are etched volume markings. The unit comes with casters on its three legs for easy mobility and is brushed stainless steel to keep a clean look. Additional accessories sold separately include a 4-inch (10-cm) tri-clamp chilling coil, dry hopping kit, and more. Prices range in size from $590, $700, and $850. Note that only the Pro Series Fermtanks from Delta are pressure-rated.
KegLand FermZilla All Rounder
This is the most basic and affordable pressurizable fermenter on our list. The egg-shaped PET body has a total volume of 7.9 gallons (30 L). The lid measures 4.75-inches (12-cm), allowing you to get your arm inside to easily clean it. It is pressure rated to 35 PSI, though you’ll have to buy the FermZilla Pressure Kit to unlock the All Rounder’s full potential and ferment under pressure (available in plastic or stainless, starting at $24.49). The plastic body is shatterproof and sits on a round stainless steel stand. It also comes with a stainless steel handle, adhesive thermometer, and graduation sticker for volume readings. The lid features molded drill locations if you choose to install addition accessories like a thermowell or cooling coil. The temperature rating is 131 °F (55 °C) when not under pressure, or a maximum temperature of 95 °F (35 °C) when holding pressure. Manufactured by Kegland in Australia and available from many North American homebrew suppliers for around $86.99.
KegLand FermZilla Tri-Conical
Similar to the All Rounder, the Gen 3.2 FermZilla Tri-Conical is made from PET with a pressure rating of 35 PSI. It holds a total volume of 7.1 gallons (27 L). Where it builds on the All Rounder is the 3-inch (7.5-cm) butterfly valve at the bottom of its cone and 22-oz. (660-mL) collection jar to remove hop matter and yeast. You will need to add the FermZilla Pressure Kit for pressure fermentation. Another accessory sold separately is a tri-clamp pressure lid that adds a 2-inch (5-cm) tri-clamp port for adding dry hops or other additions without needing to remove the entire lid. Similar to the All Rounder, the Tri-Conical comes with a stainless steel handle, adhesive thermometer, and graduation sticker for volume readings. The temperature rating is 131 °F (55 °C) when not under pressure, or a maximum temperature of 95 °F (35 °C) when holding pressure. Manufactured by Kegland in Australia and available from many North American homebrew suppliers for around $175.99.
KegLand Kegmenter
Unlike many units on this list, the Kegmenter lacks the conical cone but the stainless steel fermenter makes up for it with its low price starting at around $274.99 for the 7.6-gallon (29-L) capacity option. Three additional sizes are also available, at 13.2, 15.3, and 31 gallons (50, 58, and 117 L) with the largest costing $499.99. The top of the keg is fitted with a 4-inch (10-cm) tri-clamp lid with ball-lock posts and a pressure relief valve. It features a floating dip tube and is rated up to 36 PSI with 1.8-mm stainless steel (the largest size is rated for 43.5 PSI). The posts are recessed to allow for stacking of up to four Kegmenters on top of each other. Because there is no drop valve to remove trub/yeast, it is recommended to have two Kegmenters so you can ferment in one and then transfer to another for carbonating and serving. Available accessories include a ball-lock jumper to easily transfer from one to another, as well as the Hop Bong Pressure Pack for oxygen-free dry hopping. Manufactured by Kegland in Australia and available from many North American homebrew suppliers.
Spike Brewing Conical Unitank
Spike offers four sizes for their homebrew unitanks with similar features: CF5 (7-gallon/26.5-L capacity), CF10 (14-gallon/53 L), CF15 (18-gallon/68-L), and CF30 (40-gallon/151-L). Each is made from 1.2-mm 304 stainless steel with a 15-PSI working pressure and polished finishes. The clamp and gasket lid includes a 4-inch (10-cm) tri-clamp modular top port as well as three 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp ports designed for a blow-off port, hop addition port, and a pressure relief valve. Spike’s unitanks include a 2-inch (5-cm) dump port with butterfly valves and three 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp ports on the body. Sold separately are more than 20 accessories including a temperature control bundle, pressure relief valve, and other amenities. Base prices range from $660 for the smallest unit up to $1,725 for brewing batches up to a barrel in size in the largest homebrew size.
Ss Brewtech Unitank 2.0
The new and improved Unitank 2.0 comes in four sizes for homebrewers: 7-, 14-, 17-, and 31-gallons (26.5-, 53-, 64-, and 117-L), each made from 1.5-mm 304 stainless steel. Each size has similar features including a laser-welded cylinder glycol jacket (plus a neoprene insulation jacket) and 15-PSI operating pressure. They feature a 3-inch (7.5-cm) tri-clamp top port and pressure relief valve. They also have 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clamp butterfly valves, carb stone, blow-off arm, pressure gauge, sampling valve, and thermowell. Also standard is a keyed rotatable silicone racking arm and adjustable feet. Available add-on accessories include a touch temperature control unit, heating pad, and more. Prices start at $1,099 for the smallest unit and go up to $1,999 for the one-barrel size.
Stout Tanks Unitank Fermenters
Stout Tanks offers a 7-gallon (26.5-L) jacketed fermenter with a pressure rating of 15 PSI as well as a 20-gallon (76-L) jacketed fermenter that can be converted to a unitank with their Unitank Parts Kit, which gives it a pressure-rating up to 30 PSI (with a 15-PSI operating pressure). Both are made from mirror polished 304 stainless steel. The glycol cooling jacket extends all the way down into the cone for consistent temperature control inside. The lid features a 3-inch (7.5-cm) Clean-In-Place port and 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) pressure relief port (pressure relief valve sold separately). A sanitary thermowell is attached to a 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) tri-clover port and features two additional 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) butterfly valves. The price starts at $2,315 for the smaller unit and $2,711 for the 20-gallon (76-L) fermenter. Larger conical unitanks are also available.
WilliamsWarn BrewKeg 12.5 & 25
WilliamsWarn BrewKegs are stainless steel conical unitanks that come in two sizes ideal for homebrewers with maximum capacities of 3.3 gallons (12.5 L) and 6.6 gallons (25 L). The BrewKeg allows you to ferment and serve from the same vessel with gas-in and liquid-out ports at the top of the Corny-keg design. A large draining sediment bottle allows you to drain hop matter and yeast during the fermentation and clarification process without needing to remove the sediment bottle. The top features an adjustable pressure relief valve and the fermenter is rated at 40-PSI maximum pressure (25-PSI working pressure). The units do not include temperature control but will fit into standard-sized kegerators. WilliamsWarn is distributed in the U.S. through MoreBeer!, which sells the 12.5 for $494.99 and the 25 for $659.99.
