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Beverage Dispenser Reviews

Last updated on Jan 23, 2025

Whether you manage a catering business, event company, or hospitality business, commercial beverage dispensers are an essential investment. They hold and serve drinks at events or gatherings, allowing you to set up a convenient self-serve drink station. Commercial beverage dispensers come in many styles, shapes, and sizes, providing plenty of options. However, if you're unfamiliar with them, it can be difficult to identify which one best fits your needs. We've compiled a list of the best commercial beverage dispensers to inform your purchasing decisions and help elevate your beverage service.


Shop All Beverage Dispensers

Our Top Commercial Beverage Dispenser Choices

A commercial beverage dispenser should be durable, versatile, and allow for easy cleaning. Depending on the types of drinks you serve and the number of guests you expect, material and capacity will also be determining factors. According to market research and feedback from our industry experts, we've compiled our top choices for the best commercial beverage dispensers below.

Check out our top choices for the best beverage dispensers of 2024:
  1. Best Beverage Dispenser Overall: Cambro 250LCD110 Camtainer
  2. Best Insulated Beverage Dispenser: CaterGator Insulated Beverage Dispenser
  3. Best Glass Beverage Dispenser: Acopa Hammered Glass Beverage Dispenser
  4. Best Plastic Beverage Dispenser: Acopa Double Stainless Steel and Polycarbonate Beverage Dispenser
  5. Best Stainless Steel Beverage Dispenser: Choice Deluxe Stainless Steel Coffee Chafer Urn

Note: All prices are current to time of publication. See product page for updated pricing.

Best Beverage Dispenser Overall

Camtainers 2.5 Gallon Black Insulated

The Cambro 250LCD110 Camtainer has excellent temperature retention capabilities, making it versatile for serving coffee, hot chocolate, iced tea, and many other drinks. Built with a sturdy and durable design, it can withstand frequent use in commercial settings while remaining light weight and easy to transport, making it an ideal solution for catering events. It features a drip-proof recessed spigot for convenient access to your beverages, ensuring a mess-free serving experience. Additionally, the self-adhesive beverage labels that come with the dispenser allow for quick and easy drink identification.

Price: $135.00

Read Cambro 250LCD110 Camtainer Customer Reviews
Pros
  • Keeps beverages hot or cold for up to 4 hours
  • Ding-, dent-, and scratch-resistant polyethylene construction
  • Integrated vent cap equalizes pressure within container for easy opening
  • Molded handles with stacking design for effortless transport and service
Cons
  • Large insulated containers may be bulky

Best Insulated Beverage Dispenser

CaterGator 5 Gallon Black Insulated

Designed for reliable transport and service, the CaterGator Insulated Beverage Dispenser is the ideal solution for a wide range of events. This beverage dispenser maintains temperatures for up to 7 hours, ensuring your beverages stay at the proper serving temperature and guaranteeing long-lasting use throughout your event. It comes equipped with a dripless faucet, preventing spills and leaks. With a rugged polyethylene exterior, it withstands wear and tear from regular use, transport, and exposure to high heat. For added convenience, the CaterGator Insulated Beverage Dispenser features molded-in handles that are both durable and ergonomic, making it easy to transport.

Price: $129.99

Runner up: Igloo 4101

Read CaterGator Insulated Beverage Dispenser Customer Reviews
Pros
  • Superior insulation maintains hot or cold beverage temperatures for up to 7 hours
  • Spring action faucet and o-ring gasket eliminate drips
  • Extra-wide latches securely seal lid
  • Faucet clearance provides space for various types of cups and glasses
Cons
  • Large insulated dispensers can be bulky

Best Glass Beverage Dispenser

Acopa 5 Gallon Hammered Glass

The Acopa Hammered Glass Beverage Dispenser is ideal for those looking to elevate their beverage service at high-volume events. Crafted from thick-walled, lead-free glass, it is visually appealing, durable, and reliable. This dispenser offers a perfect combination of style and function and blends seamlessly into casual and formal affairs. Additionally, this dispenser is easy to clean and does not discolor or retain smells, ensuring that your signature beverages always taste fresh and look appealing.

Price: $54.99

Runner up: Acopa Mason Jar Glass Beverage Dispenser

Read Acopa Hammered Glass Beverage Dispenser Customer Reviews
Pros
  • Attractive octagon shape and textured design
  • Matching glass lid protects your drink from contaminants
  • Perfect for indoor or outdoor use
  • Includes an easy-to-use spigot
Cons
  • Glass is more likely to break

Best Plastic Beverage Dispenser

Acopa Double 2.1 Gallon Stainless Steel & Polycarbonate

The Acopa Double Stainless Steel and Polycarbonate Beverage Dispenser represents a stylish and functional drink dispensing solution. This dispenser features polycarbonate containers with sleek stainless steel accents and is perfect for high-volume use. The built-in ice cores help keep your drinks cold for hours, and the unit has two separate drink canisters that can be filled with different drinks. In addition to its functionality, this dispenser includes drip-free spouts and recessed drip trays to minimize spills and messes, keeping your serving area clean and organized.

Price: $146.99

Runner up: Choice Double Beverage / Juice Dispenser

Read Acopa Double Stainless Steel and Polycarbonate Beverage Dispenser Customer Reviews
Pros
  • Center ice core keeps beverages cold without being watered down
  • Attractive stainless steel accents
  • Removable drip tray for cleaning convenience
  • Dual dispensers offer beverage variety
Cons
  • Plastic construction may not be fit for high-end events

Best Stainless Steel Beverage Dispenser

Choice Deluxe Stainless Steel Coffee Chafer Urn

The Choice Deluxe Stainless Steel Coffee Chafer Urn is a durable beverage dispenser that allows you to effortlessly serve guests fresh coffee, tea, cappuccino, or hot chocolate. Its highly polished, professional finish adds a touch of elegance to any setting. This unit is crafted from high-quality 18/10 stainless steel and is built to withstand the demands of any commercial environment. It excels at distributing and retaining heat and features a drip-free spigot for convenient service. Cleaning the dispenser is a breeze, as it can be easily separated from the base.

Price: $96.99

Runner up: Vollrath 46280

Read Choice Deluxe Stainless Steel Coffee Chafer Urn Customer Reviews
Pros
  • Faucet minimizes drips and spills
  • Built-in fuel holder
  • Two side handles assist in lifting and carrying
  • Decorative lid lifts off for easy refilling
Cons
  • Only meant for warm beverages
  • Meant for indoor use

How to Choose Commercial Beverage Dispensers

When selecting a commercial beverage dispenser, think about the types of drinks you plan to serve and the nature of the events you will be hosting. Remember that each establishment has unique needs, so what works for one business might not work for another. Consider the volume of beverages you will be dispensing, the available space in your establishment, and the level of customization you desire. Additionally, think about the ease of cleaning and maintenance and any special features you may need, such as multiple dispensing options or temperature control.

Material

Material not only impacts temperature retention and distribution but also influences the overall durability and presentation of the dispenser. Several materials are commonly used in commercial beverage dispensers, each with unique advantages and considerations.

  • Plastic: Plastic is a popular choice for beverage dispensers due to its durability and affordability. While they are practical for everyday use and are easy to clean, they may not always align with the aesthetics of upscale settings.
  • Glass: Glass beverage dispensers offer a sophisticated look well-suited for high-end events and settings. However, glass is more prone to breakage compared to other materials.
  • Stainless steel: Stainless steel beverage dispensers retain temperatures well, particularly for warm beverages. These dispensers are durable and resistant to corrosion, making them a reliable choice for long-term use.
  • Polyethylene: Polyethylene beverage dispensers provide superior insulation, keeping beverages at the desired temperature for extended periods. Additionally, polyethylene dispensers are highly durable, making them suitable for high-traffic environments.

Capacity

It is essential to strike a balance when considering capacity. You do not want a dispenser that is too small for a large event, leading to frequent refills and potential service disruptions. Conversely, a dispenser too large for a smaller gathering may result in unnecessary waste and storage issues. Identify the volume of beverages you anticipate serving at your events, and consider factors such as the number of guests, the types of beverages you will be dispensing, and the duration of the event.

You may consider investing in beverage dispensers with varying capacities for added versatility. Having multiple dispensers with different capacities allows you to cater to events of various sizes while ensuring efficient beverage service. Capacity can also impact transportation, especially if you frequently cater events on-site. Opting for dispensers with suitable capacities can streamline the transportation process and help you manage beverages more effectively.

Portability

When selecting a beverage dispenser, look for models that are easy to handle and move around. Opt for durable, sturdy dispensers, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of transportation while still being light weight enough to facilitate easy transport. This balance is essential for ensuring the longevity of your beverage dispenser. Additionally, consider choosing beverage dispensers designed to stack with other units. This allows for convenient storage during and after transportation, maximizing space efficiency and making it easier to move multiple dispensers at once.

Insulation

An insulated beverage dispenser is recommended if you host long events or need to transport beverages over a considerable distance. The insulation helps to keep your drinks at the desired temperature, whether hot or cold, for an extended period. For beverages that must be served warm, such as coffee or hot chocolate, opting for a dispenser with heavy-duty insulation is essential. This also goes for if you plan to serve drinks outdoors, especially in hot weather conditions.

Investing in the right commercial beverage dispenser will elevate your beverage service and maximize sales of your signature drinks. With so many options available, staying informed on the best brands and models is essential when making a purchase. Remember that every beverage dispenser is different and will lend itself to a different type of service. The best dispenser for your business will depend on the drinks you serve, the environment you operate in, and the preferences of your customers and staff.

The information provided on this website does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice. Please refer to our Content Policy for more details.

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