As many beer connoisseurs can attest, buying a case, or a “two-four,” is pocket-friendlier than opting for individual bottles or cans. So, if you want to save a few bucks, it’s the perfect solution!
But then, how many beers in a case will you get in a standard case? Find out in this blog, which also discusses the different types of cases on the market and some essential factors to mull over before buying yours.
We’ll also let you in on the average price of beer cases to help you prepare to stock your fridge with your favorite drinks.
How Many Beers Are in a Case?
A typical case of beer comes with 24 beers, no matter the brand you choose. These could be cans, bottles, or containers; deciding what you prefer is up to you.
However, it’s worth mentioning that some specialty brands may offer fewer than 24 beers in specific sizes. Hence, always double-check yours before purchasing to know exactly what you’re paying for.
Still, a beer case is more affordable than buying single bottles of beer. Plus, it’s a much more convenient option if you’re hosting a game night or throwing an office or a house party.
Beer cases also minimize packing wastage since you’ll need fewer boxes to move them.
Cases with Fewer Beers
It’s not unusual to find cases of beer with only 12 instead of 24 beers. This is usually because the cans or bottles are larger, i.e., you’ll get significantly larger beers like 64 oz instead of 8 oz.
Some cases of beer come with only six beers, known as “six-packs.”
Suppose a brewery offers multiple types or brands within a single line; they may package them into smaller quantities for convenience and cost-effectiveness. After all, the fewer cans/bottles per case, the better value for consumers and lower transportation costs.
In addition, craft breweries often offer specialty flavors or seasonal varieties. Therefore, smaller packs allow their target consumers to experiment with different beers without taking home more than one type at once.
Brand variations can also impact case sizes. For instance, Heineken may choose 16-ounce bottles in their regular variety but 12-ounce for specific special editions. At the same time, other companies opt for 18-beer cases with only one flavor.
Different Types of Beer Cases
Beer Packs
Beer packs are a type of case with multiple bottles of beer. They usually come in different sizes, holding between 4 and 36 beers. That makes them convenient for consumers who don’t need an entire 24-pack but still want to enjoy various beer flavors and brands.
Although the number of cans or bottles each pack holds varies from one brand to another, most contain 12-ounce bottles or cans for easy portability. They are usually more affordable than buying total cases, which is another advantage consumers enjoy.
Most craft breweries offer beer packs to make it easier for drinkers everywhere to find these conveniently-sized alcoholic beverages suited for all occasions, no matter their taste preferences.
Beer Racks
If you’re looking for a versatile way to store and organize cases of beer, you can’t go wrong with beer racks. Often referred to as “beer cradles,” these sturdy shelves or wooden frames allow consumers to reach and enjoy their packs of beer as the drinks are all in one place.
Unlike regular beer boxes, which contain 6-12 bottles or cans per pint, a single beer rack can hold up to 24 beers. Hence, it should be your top pick if you’re looking to stock up on more than just a few beverages at once.
Beer racks also offer greater flexibility regarding the size and quantity of drinks that can be stored within them.
While most cases come with 24 bottles, some beer racks are equipped with custom compartments suitable for smaller six-packs and larger 30+ packs, giving you plenty of space to store your refreshing drinks.
Comparison Chart: Beer cases vs. Beer Racks vs. Beer Packs
Here’s a comparison chart that brilliantly breaks down the differences between beer cases, beer packs, and beer racks:
| Types | Sizes | Packaging | Number of Beers |
| Beer Cases | 12-pack, 18-pack, 20-pack, 22-pack, 24-pack, 30-pack | Cardboard box | It varies depending on packaging size, but a 24-pack is the standard |
| Beer Packs | 4-pack, 6-pack, 12-pack | Plastic rings or cardboard carriers | Varies depending on packaging size |
| Beer Racks | No standard size | It depends on the retailer – it can be a display shelf or a large pack of beer cans/bottles | No official rule, but a 12-pack can be referred to as a half-rack of beer |
Comparing Beer Cases, Beer Kegs, and Beer Balls
Learning the best ways to store your drinks is vital if you’re a passionate drinker. The most common options are beer cases and beer kegs, which offer different advantages.
For example, beer cases are well-liked for their portability, while beer kegs boast a larger storage capacity, making them ideal for events and parties.
Below is a comparative table illustrating the differences between beer cases and beer kegs:
| Beer Cases | Beer Kegs | |
| Size | A standard 12 oz. can beer case holds 24 cans. | A standard half-barrel keg can store up to 15.5 gallons of beer. |
| Capacity | A standard case contains 24 beers. | A standard keg can have approximately 6 to 7 cases of beer, assuming each contains 24 cans or bottles. |
| Price | Varies depending on the retailer. | It tends to be more costly due to the larger quantity of beer. |
Still, note that the specific number and size of beers in a case or a keg will depend on the brand and retailer. The capacity of a keg is measured in gallons, with the standard keg holding 15.5 gallons. This is significantly larger than a case of beer, making kegs a cost-efficient option for serving larger crowds.
Beer Cases vs. Beer Balls
Learning to distinguish between beer cases and beer balls is also essential if you’re looking for different ways to store and enjoy your beer.
So, beer cases and beer balls offer different quantities of beer and have different dispensing methods. Here’s a comparison of the two:
| Beer Container | Size and Capacity | Dispensing Method |
| Beer Cases | Typically contain 24 bottles or cans of beer. Size may vary depending on brand and packaging. | Individually via bottles or cans. A case can be considered a personal amount for an individual or the start of a good night. |
| Beer Balls | Also known as party balls, they typically hold more than 5 gallons of draft beer, equivalent to more than two cases of 12-ounce bottles or cans. | It is dispensed via a tap, providing an element of novelty and fun at parties and gatherings. |
Ultimately, the best pick between a beer case and a beer ball depends on the quantity of beer you need and the type of event you’re holding.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Case of Beer
Brand Variations in Case Sizes
Every beer brand has a different case size. With this in mind, here’s a closer look at how different types of beer come in varying case sizes:
- Domestic Beer: This type of beer typically comes in a case containing 24 cans or bottles that are each 12 ounces in size.
- Craft Beer: This variety usually comes with fewer beers per case, typically twelve 12-oz cans or bottles.
- Imported Beer: Imported beers usually come in 12 11 or 12-oz cans or bottles, depending on the country.
- Tall Boys Beer: Popularly called ‘tall boys’ and ‘shorties,’ this type of beer comes in sixteen 16-oz cans/bottles.
- Oversize Pints: These require exceptional oversized pint cases containing eight large cans/bottles measuring 15.5 ounces each.
Cost of a Case of Beer
Price is another factor you must consider when choosing a case of beer to take home.
Usually, the cost of a case of beer depends on factors such as brand, quantity, and bottle size. For example, a 24-pack of 12-ounce cans may cost around $20, and the same size for larger bottles or cans could be more expensive.
In addition, the number of beers in a case also impacts pricing. A standard case with 12 brews doesn’t cost the same as another with 24 beers, whether bought in bottles or cans.
Some craft beers may also offer cases with fewer than twelve beers, but these tend to be more costly than regular variations with 24 containers.
Knowing how much you’re buying and factoring in all the details that go into the prices of different beers, such as taxes, is essential before buying your case of beer.
FAQs on How Many Beers in a Case
How many beers are typically in a case?
The number of beers in a case varies depending on the type and size of beer you purchase. Generally, cases come with 12 or 24 cans/bottles, but some may have fewer, based on the brand and package choice.
What is the difference between a case and a carton of beer?
A “case” usually refers to a standard box containing 12-24 cans or bottles, whereas a “carton” has larger bottles collected in packs, such as 6-packs, 8-packs, etc.
Cartons sometimes refer to cases containing multiple smaller bottles (4 or 5oz).
Is there an age restriction for purchasing large amounts of beer?
Yes, most countries restrict alcohol consumption by minors. In the United States, the minimum legal drinking age is 21 years, meaning you must show a valid ID to prove that before making a purchase.
Final Take On How Many Beers in a Case
A case of beer is perfect for gatherings and parties, as it has up to 24 beers! Thankfully, you have many brands to choose from when getting yours from your local store, including Bud Light, Miller Lite, Coors Light, and Michelob.
Remember, craft brews may come in different configurations than that standard 24-pack. Cases can have only 12 cans, and you might even find mixed packs. All the same, set a clear goal on the amount of beer you should purchase, depending on whether you plan to enjoy it alone or with your buddies.
