The amount of beer in a keg leans on the type and size of the keg, which can vary depending on the region and its intended use. In the USA, the most common type of keg is the half-barrel keg, which holds 15.5 gallons of beer. This is equivalent to more or less 58.67 liters or 1,984 ounces. This size is widely used in bars, pubs, restaurants, and at large events, and it yields roughly 165 twelve-ounce servings or 124 U.S. pints.

There are smaller keg options as well. A quarter-barrel keg—also known as a pony keg—holds 7.75 gallons, or around 29.3 liters, which translates to about 82 twelve-ounce servings. A sixth-barrel keg, often favored by craft brewers and home users, contains 5.16 gallons, or 19.5 liters, which provides approximately 55 twelve-ounce servings.

Homebrewers also commonly use Cornelius kegs, or “Corny kegs,” which hold five gallons (18.9 liters) of beer—enough for around 53 standard servings. These kegs are particularly popular for their ease of washing and reusability.

In Europe, kegs are normally measured in liters. A standard European keg holds 50 liters, which equals around 13.2 U.S. gallons or approximately 140 twelve-ounce servings. Smaller options like 30-liter and 20-liter kegs are also commonly used, especially in the United Kingdom and in craft brewing circles.

It's worth noting that the actual volume of beer you get from a keg can be a bit less due to foam, spillage, or over-pouring. However, kegs remain an efficient and economical choice for serving beer in bulk, whether at home, in bars, or at special events.

Read our articles : How many pints are in a keg of beer ? and How much does a keg of beer weigh ?