If you love making your own beer and diving into the world of craft brews, you know it’s a pretty hands-on and satisfying experience. Brewing beer at home lets you play around with flavors and give your creativity a workout while also requiring some patience. Plus, dealing with all that gear might even give you as much exercise as a workout at the gym. Knowing which tools to use can really make your brewing easier, more effective, and a whole lot more fun. This guide is here to help you find the must-have brewing gear that can take your craft beer skills to the next level and maybe even save you a trip to the gym.
Contents
Top Picks
- Best Overall Temperature Controller: Inkbird ITC-308 Digital Temperature Controller – $35.00
- Best Value Auto Siphon: Fermtech Auto Siphon Mini with 6 Ft Food Safe Tubing – $15.99
- Best Fermentation Jars: Folinstall 1.5 Gallon Large Fermentation Jars with Airtight Lids – $38.99
- Best Brew Bags: Era Natural Brew Bags Reusable 3 Pack – $12.99
- Best Mead Making Kit: Craft A Brew Mead Making Kit – 1 Gallon – $49.95
How We Chose the Best Beer Brewing Equipment
We focused on products that enhance your home brewing experience by offering reliability, ease of use, and value. Temperature control is crucial for consistent fermentation, so devices like the Inkbird ITC-308 made the list for their accuracy and customer support. Tools that simplify liquid transfer, such as auto siphons, help you avoid messy situations and save time. Fermentation jars with airtight seals ensure your craft beer ferments properly without contamination. Durable and reusable brew bags make straining easier and cleaner. Finally, starter kits like the Craft A Brew mead making kit provide everything you need to dive into brewing with minimal fuss. Each product was selected based on user ratings, practical features, and how well they fit into the home brewing workflow.
Oh hey! FYI… any links on this page that lead to products on Amazon or other online retailers are affiliate links and we earn a commission if you make a purchase. Thanks in advance for your support!
Inkbird ITC-308 Temperature Controller
If you’re into homebrewing, you know how crucial it is to keep your fermenter at just the right temperature. The Inkbird ITC-308 is like having a reliable buddy who never lets your brew get too hot or too cold. It’s super straightforward — plug it in, set your desired temp, and it handles the rest with heating and cooling modes. Whether you’re chilling your beer or keeping a greenhouse cozy, this little device keeps things steady without you breaking a sweat. Plus, it’s got dual displays so you can see both the current and target temps at a glance. Perfect for those days when you’d rather be sipping your brew than babysitting it.
Lately I’ve been brewing hot with a Seedling Heat Mat with Kveik yeast and the Inkbird ITC-308 has been critical to keeping my fermentation at target temp (100 degrees!).
What People Say
People love how reliable and easy this controller is, especially for homebrewing. It’s praised for keeping temps rock solid and the WiFi version adds the convenience of remote monitoring. Plus, the customer service gets a thumbs up for being helpful even after warranty expiration.
🗣️ Chris
This is my 3rd Inkbird product. I use this to keep my cured meats within a very tight temp range (unlike just using the thermostat on your fridge). This device failed to turn on the cooling receptacle after just over a year, and after helping me troubleshoot via email, Inkbird graciously offered to replace it for no cost, even though the warranty had expired. I thought that was awesome of them as a company. In a world where prices for these types of devices has gone nowhere but up, it’s great to know that Inkbird still puts a value on their customer service. Thank you Inkbird! You have a new cheerleader!!
🗣️ davidgreen
I have used the ITC 308 for years and found it to be extremely reliable, this WiFi version seems to be identical as the original making me think that it will also be reliable. It is extremely easy to set up using the App and the WiFi makes monitoring your beer and adjusting the temperature extremely convenient from your phone. I’m looking forward to continue using this for many brews. Cheers
DIY Setup Tips
Setting up your Inkbird ITC-308 is as easy as plugging it in and following the simple instructions. For homebrewing, just connect your heating or cooling device, set your target fermentation temperature, and let it do the heavy lifting. There are plenty of helpful videos online if you want a step-by-step walkthrough.
Ease of Use Features
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Plug and Play Setup | Easy |
| Temperature Calibration | Moderate |
| Dual Display Readout | Easy |
| Buzzer Alarm Settings | Moderate |
| WiFi App Monitoring (WiFi version) | Easy |
Who It’s For
Beginner to Intermediate
Why You’ll Like It
- Keeps your homebrew fermenting at the perfect temperature without constant checking
- Dual relay output lets you connect both heating and cooling devices simultaneously
- Easy-to-read dual display shows current and set temperatures side by side
- Plug and play design means no complicated setup — just set it and forget it
- Built-in buzzer alerts you if temps stray outside your set range
- Protects your equipment with compressor delay and temperature calibration features
Current Price: $35.00
Rating: 4.5 (total: 13535+)
Auto Siphon Mini 15″
When you start home brewing, trying to move your brew without making a mess can feel like a workout. The Auto Siphon Mini 15″ is your go-to buddy for those small batch projects. It fits into tight spots like 1″ openings so you won’t have to awkwardly juggle containers or end up spilling half your brew everywhere. Whether you’re transferring beer, wine, kombucha, or even tea, this kit has what you need with 6 feet of food-safe tubing and a clamp to keep everything in place. It’s super easy to use — just one pump and the liquid flows smoothly with no hassle or spills. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to keep their brewing process neat and simple without turning it into a workout.
Most homebrew kits do not include an auto syphon – but they should! If I could point to one essential piece of equipment that will make your bottling day easier, this is it!
What People Say
Home brewers love how this mini siphon makes transferring liquids effortless and clean. It’s praised for its smooth flow, easy setup, and how it helps get every last drop without dragging solids along. Great for anyone working with small batches who wants to avoid spills and extra cleanup.
🗣️ John L McWilliams
Works SEAMLESSLY!! One of the best purchases I have made since I began making homemade Mead. No regrets. A+++
🗣️ Mary K.
We make our own wine, and this is a game changer for bottling your wine. Allows you to get the most liquid out with none of the solids. Worth every penny.
DIY Tips for Easy Siphoning
Getting started with the Auto Siphon Mini is pretty straightforward. Just measure your container’s opening to make sure it fits, attach the tubing, clamp it in place, and give the siphon a pump. Before you know it, your brew is flowing smoothly from one vessel to another.
Ease of Use Features
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup and Fit | Easy |
| One-Pump Operation | Easy |
| Tubing Attachment | Moderate |
| Cleaning After Use | Moderate |
| Clamp Stability | Easy |
Who It’s For
Beginner to Hobbyist
Why You’ll Appreciate It
- Fits into small openings as narrow as 1″, perfect for small batch brewing
- One-pump siphoning makes liquid transfer smooth and mess-free
- Includes 6 feet of food-safe tubing and a clamp for secure, stable use
- Versatile for beer, wine, kombucha, tea, and other home brewing liquids
- Durable design built to handle repeated use without fuss
Current Price: $15.99
Rating: 4.6 (total: 7615+)
1.5 Gallon Fermentation Jars 2-Pack
If you love homebrewing, you probably know that having the right stuff can really change the game between an easy brew day and a serious workout. These 1.5-gallon fermentation jars from Folinstall come with tight lids and airlocks that protect your fermenting creations from any unwanted visitors like wild yeast. The wide mouth design makes adding ingredients and cleaning up afterward so much easier. Whether you’re making mead, pickling some veggies, or trying your hand at kimchi, these jars are perfect for you. Plus, the handy markings on the side help you track your progress without any guesswork. It’s like having a little brewery right on your counter without all the heavy lifting.
If you are brewing one gallon batches, you know that your fermentation should, ideally, be slightly more by volume to account for transfer loss, trub, or even dryhop additions. If you’re brewing single gallons of mead, you want room for fruit or other flavorings. These additives take up space, and when you’ve only got a gallon to work with, every ounce is precious. Make it easy on yourself – get a primary fermenter that is a little bigger than your target batch size!
What People Say
Homebrewers appreciate how these jars make fermentation less of a guessing game. The airtight seal and airlock system keep things safe, while the wide mouth and measurement marks simplify your brewing routine. Many find them perfect for mead, wine, and all sorts of fermented goodies.
🗣️ Jeremy Riggs
Love these. I use these for secondary Mead fermentation, the larger mouth and capacity allow for less volume loss and ease to add fruit and other items. Perfect for my home operation.
🗣️ R. Flores
I make mead and homemade wine, usually in gallon batches. These are great for primary fermentation with fruit, lots of room and I can still end up filling a gallon carboy after the fruit is removed.
DIY Fermentation Made Simple
Starting with these jars is pretty straightforward. Just pop in your ingredients, seal with the airtight lid, attach the airlock valve, and let the magic happen. When fermentation’s done, remove the valve and seal it up. Cleaning is easy thanks to the wide mouth. Plenty of homebrewing forums and videos can walk you through the nitty-gritty if you want to get fancy.
Ease of Use Features
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setting Up Airlock Valve | Easy |
| Sealing Lid Airtight | Easy |
| Adding Ingredients | Easy |
| Cleaning the Jar | Moderate |
| Handling and Storage | Easy |
Who Should Use This
Beginner to Intermediate Homebrewers
Why You’ll Love These Jars
- Square design with airlock valve prevents pressure build-up and keeps your ferments happy
- 100% airtight lids keep your brews fresh and contamination-free
- Wide 4.3″ mouth makes adding ingredients and cleaning a breeze
- Measurement markings on the jar help you track fermentation progress easily
- Complete set includes 2 jars, 3 airlock valves, and a manual so you’re ready to go
Current Price: $38.99
Rating: 4.9 (total: 162+)
Brew Bags Reusable 3 Pack
If you’re getting into brewing craft beer at home these big brew bags from Era Natural are a total lifesaver. They help make your brew day way easier by keeping things smooth when dealing with grains. The fine mesh lets you steep hops, grains, or even fruit without stressing about small bits getting into your wort. And the drawstring design keeps everything nice and secure so you won’t have spills while you work on that perfect batch. Whether you’re making beer cider or straining your homemade jams these bags can do it all. They’re tough reusable and super easy to clean so they’re like your new best buddy in the kitchen or brewing area.
What People Say
Homebrewers love how these bags simplify the brew in a bag method, making all-grain brewing accessible without bulky gear. The sturdy drawstring and fine mesh mean less mess and more control, while the size handles even large recipes with ease. Plus, cleaning up is quick, so you spend more time enjoying your craft beer and less time scrubbing.
🗣️ Mr John Stafford
These brew bags are magnificent — strong, durable, and the drawstring is just right. I’ve only used one so far, and it still looks brand new despite a bit of dye from brewing. Cleaning is a breeze: just turn it inside out, run under the tap, and hang to dry. Worth every penny, especially for the size and performance.
🗣️ Melody Siron
Extremely easy to use and very functional for wine making. Getting three bags for this price is great value. They hold up well and make straining a simple step in my brewing routine.
DIY Brew In A Bag Basics
Start by placing your grains or hops inside the brew bag, then secure the drawstring so it stays put during the boil. Use your existing kettle to brew as usual, then lift the bag out to drain. Rinse the bag immediately after use and hang it to dry. Plenty of online tutorials can walk you through the brew in a bag process if you want to get fancy.
Ease of Use Features
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setting Up the Brew Bag | Easy |
| Securing Drawstring | Easy |
| Handling Hot Grains | Moderate |
| Cleaning After Use | Easy |
| Storage | Easy |
Who Should Use This
Beginner to Experienced Homebrewers
Why These Brew Bags Work For You
- Extra-large size fits kettles up to 17″ diameter and holds up to 20 lbs of grain, perfect for big batches
- Drawstring with adjustable lock keeps the bag secure and prevents it from touching the hot kettle bottom
- Fine mesh polyester material is durable, BPA-free, and reusable for multiple brew days
- Eliminates the need for extra equipment like mash tuns, saving you space and money
- Versatile for brewing beer, cider, cold brew, jams, and fruit wine making
Current Price: $12.99
Rating: 4.7 (total: 2,763+)
Craft A Brew Mead Making Kit
So you’re thinking about trying out homebrewing but aren’t ready to go all in on beer just yet? Check out this mead making kit from Craft A Brew. It’s all about mixing honey, water, and yeast to whip up your own honey wine, also known as mead, which has been around forever. The kit has everything you need except for the honey (you’ll need to grab that sweet stuff yourself), and it’s super beginner-friendly, so you won’t feel like you’re back in science class. Whether you want to wow your friends at the next dinner party or just need a fun weekend project that’s way more rewarding than hitting the gym, this kit’s for you. And the best part? It’s reusable, so once you’ve got your first batch down, you can make plenty more. Brewing your own mead is a great way to show off your homebrewing skills and enjoy something different from your usual beer or wine.
What People Say
Homebrewing newbies and curious hobbyists appreciate how this kit breaks down mead making into simple steps without skimping on quality. People love that it’s a fun project to do solo or with a partner, and the reusable gear means you’re not stuck buying a new kit every time. The included guide and videos get you through the tricky parts, though some recommend grabbing an auto siphon separately for easier bottling.
🗣️ Ty Jones
My husband absolutely loved this mead-making kit! It turned out to be a fantastic bonding activity for us—we had so much fun going through the process together. Even if you’re not a mead enthusiast, it’s a fascinating and hands-on science experiment that anyone can enjoy. The kit is well put together, easy to follow, and makes the experience both educational and entertaining. Highly recommend for couples or anyone looking for a unique DIY project!
🗣️ Brandon S.
This was my first time ever making anything remotely close to a fermented anything. I was very confused but the guide and video I watched online made it super easy to make. The taste was surprisingly not super sweet but more sour and bitter, which was interesting. The smell was rich and very pleasing. After drinking a small glass, I was all giggles and hiccuping like a cartoon character. Definitely a fun experience and a great way to get into homebrewing. Just be careful with the day 2 and day 5 steps!
How To Brew Your First Mead
Start by sanitizing everything (seriously, don’t skip this). Mix your honey with water, add the yeast and nutrients, then pour it all into the glass carboy. Attach the airlock and let fermentation do its magic for about 4 weeks. When it’s ready, siphon the mead into bottles (consider an auto siphon for less mess), then let it age if you want a smoother taste. Plenty of online tutorials and videos can walk you through each step if you want extra help.
Ease of Use Breakdown
| Feature | Ease Level |
|---|---|
| Setup and Sanitizing | Moderate |
| Mixing Ingredients | Easy |
| Fermentation Monitoring | Moderate |
| Siphoning and Bottling | Moderate |
| Cleaning and Reusing Kit | Easy |
Who This Is For
Perfect for Beginners and Curious Homebrewers
Why You’ll Like This Kit
- All-in-one kit with glass carboy, airlock, yeast, nutrients, sanitizer, and more—just add honey
- Reusable components mean you can keep brewing batch after batch without buying a new kit
- Clear, beginner-friendly guide and online videos help you avoid rookie mistakes
- Makes about 1 gallon of mead, perfect for sharing or savoring over a few evenings
- Great introduction to homebrewing that’s hands-on, fun, and surprisingly rewarding
Current Price: $49.95
Rating: 4.6 (total: 2,025+)
FAQ
Do I Really Need Fancy Equipment To Start Home Brewing, Or Can I Just Use My Kitchen Stuff And Call It Craft Beer?
You might be tempted to turn your kitchen into a brewery with just pots and hope, but trust me, investing in some dedicated beer brewing equipment will save you from a sticky, sticky mess and questionable flavors. For example, a temperature controller like the Inkbird ITC-308 ($35.00) keeps your brew at the perfect temp without you breaking a sweat—or your batch. Plus, using proper fermentation jars and auto siphons means less chance of contamination and more chance of bragging rights at your next BBQ. So yes, you can start with kitchen stuff, but if you want your craft beer to taste like craft beer (and not regret it), gear up!
How Do I Avoid Turning My Home Brewing Hobby Into A Full-Time Gym Membership?
Home brewing is a workout in its own right—lifting heavy carboys, stirring big kettles, and hauling around buckets can definitely get your biceps popping. But you don’t have to sign up for a gym just yet. Tools like the Fermtech Auto Siphon Mini ($15.99) make transferring liquids a breeze without the awkward mouth suction or awkward bending. Plus, using large fermentation jars like the Folinstall 1.5 Gallon set ($38.99) with airtight lids means less lifting and more chilling. So, while you’re technically getting your reps in, smart equipment means you’re working smarter, not harder—because your beer should be the only thing that’s well-conditioned.
What’s The Biggest Mistake New Home Brewers Make When Using Their Equipment?
Oh, the rookie errors are legendary. The biggest one? Neglecting sanitation and temperature control. You can have the fanciest brew bags or the coolest digital thermostat, but if you don’t keep things clean and your fermenter at the right temp, you’ll end up with something closer to a science experiment gone wrong than a tasty craft beer. For instance, the Inkbird ITC-308 helps you nail the temperature, while reusable brew bags like the Era Natural 3 Pack ($12.99) keep your grains and hops in check without mess. Also, don’t underestimate the power of reading the manual (or watching a quick YouTube tutorial) before you dive in—your future self (and your taste buds) will thank you.
Wrapping Up
By choosing the right beer brewing equipment, you set yourself up for a more enjoyable and successful home brewing journey. Whether you’re managing fermentation temperatures with the Inkbird ITC-308 or simplifying transfers with the Fermtech auto siphon, these tools help you focus on crafting delicious craft beer without unnecessary hassle. Investing in quality equipment not only improves your brewing results but also makes the process more fun and less stressful. So, gear up and get ready to brew your best batch yet.
