Craft Beer vs. Draft Beer: The Pros, Cons & Differences

When it comes to the beer industry, an array of buzzwords is blooming. Some words may be familiar to you as they are common words; however, some are still striving to know what word that is since those words are bewildering to differentiate from each other!

So when it comes to the differences between craft beer vs. draft beer, they are most likely easy to distinguish from each other. Why? It is because their definition and qualities are very plain-dealing.

Nonetheless, are they somewhat similar? What really are their differences? And, what really is craft beer vs. draft beer?

Therefore, let’s read on as we’re about to tell you the differences between these two!

The differences between Craft beer and Draft beer

Once you’re out for a beer, you might hear the term “craft beer” or  “draft beer,” especially in places such as restaurants, bars, or beer heels. You might be wondering what differences they could possibly have or are they even have similarities.

Moreover, in order for you to know if they have those similarities and differences, we’ve got the answer you’ll need!

What is a Craft Beer?

The concept of craft beer is newborn when it comes to the world of beer and brewing. Craft beer is mostly the kind of beer brewed by small breweries, which is known for being called as “artisanal beer,”  “customized beer,” or “microbrew.”

It is naturally produced with lesser batches of small-scale compared to larger breweries, which consists of enhanced flavors and distinct tastes that can stand out uncomplicatedly.

When we say “small breweries,” it’s common for the brewers to produce not more than six million barrels per year—and the ingredients must be premium and high quality.

In addition, if you’re a small brewer, you’ll be able to experiment and try different mixtures, tastes, flavorings, and processes—without wasting too much number of your ingredients. This type of beer is usually notable when it comes it its aroma, quality, and appearance compared to other kinds of beer.

You can watch this video if you want to know more about craft beers:

What is a Draft Beer?

Draft beer, also known as draught beer, is not fundamentally different from the bottled or canned beer commonly found in stores. In reality, it is produced using a similar method.

However, beer aficionados frequently choose draft beer for its crispier, full-bodied, and bolder taste, which results from its dispensation through a stainless steel keg. This distinguishes it from bottled or canned beer. Hence, if you equate draft beer and tap beer due to their shared characteristics, you are correct!

In addition, draft beer is poured from a beer faucet, originating from kegs or barrels. This method of dispensation is similar to that of bottled beer, and the term “draft” is derived from the word “dragan,” meaning to “pull” or “carry.” Thus, the type of beer refers to how it is made, while draft or draught beer refers to beer served straight from kegs.

If you want to know more about draft beer, here’s a video you can watch:

Places and Origins of Craft and Draft Beer

Let’s now move forward to the places and origins of these two (Craft beer vs. Draft Beer) so that you will know what year they created this type of beer. Hang tight as we’re about to go back to the past in order to know them very well!

History of Craft Beer

Craft beers are commonly known as artisanal beer and microbrew beer that are produced by independent and traditional breweries—which we have stated above. They are made from the highest quality ingredients and limited quantities while using unique brewing techniques.

Its history started in the 1960s, and 1970s way back in the United States, wherein a small number of home-brewers and beer devotees started experimenting with traditional European brewing methods together with the ingredients.

These beer enthusiasts and home-brewers were delighted with how the pile of produced bland beers dominated the market, making it the revival of traditional brewing and creating new unique, and flavorful beers.

Years passed, and the popularity of craft beer grew, making it a thriving industry with thousands and thousands of small and independent breweries around the world. And since craft beers are known for their flavor, aroma, and quality, it continues to expand and grow with new styles, flavorings, and brewing methods.

With today’s present time, craft beers offer consumers a high quality and wide range of flavorful beers, which you can choose freely!

History of Draft Beer

The history of draft beer can be seen during the medieval period in Europe, and it is where the typically brewed beers in monasteries traveled and were served in local taverns. During this time, beers were stored in more enormous barrels—specifically wooden type and the beers were served from these barrels directly.

Because of this tradition, the word “draught” beer carries on to develop over the years and centuries with the introduction of stainless steel kegs and the start of beer dispensing systems.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, the increase of mass production and the rise of industrialization of this beer started growing massively, which caused traditional and small-scale brewing drooping. However, the classic method of serving the beer straightly from the barrel was maintained in some areas of the world; hence the popularity remains still.

When the late 20th century started, craft beer revived the tradition of brewing—together with the increasing popularity of draft beer. And today, draft beers are widely known in pubs, taverns, and bars around the world as they continue to be popular with some beer fanatics.

Which of the two will get you drunk?

Whether it’s craft beer or draft beer, both of them will make you drunk considering several factors such as the ABV or Alcohol by Volume content of the beer you’re drinking, the amount of beer that you gulp, and of course, your individual alcohol tolerance.

Both of them vary the level of alcohol content, which ranges from low to high. The key is you must drink responsibly, pace yourself, and not consider driving when you’re drunk. It is also important to remember that drinking to the point of getting drunk is not recommended for your well-being and health.

So to retort to your question, the answer is none. It basically depends on the amount of alcohol you intake.

Which is more expensive?

Overall, craft beer can be more expensive compared to draft beer since the ingredients used in craft beer are of higher quality, and the process of brewing and waiting time are very consuming and complex. Additionally, the production and quantity of craft beers are limited, which causes the price to increase.

On the contrary, draft beer is less expensive because it is brewed in larger quantities, which causes the price to decrease per unit. Furthermore, most bars and restaurants offer draft beers at a lower price compared to canned and bottled beers because of their lower costs in connection with the serving and storing of draft beer.

In the end, the cost of craft beer and draft beer can vary universally—making it difficult to clearly give an accurate statement regarding these two. It really depends on what brand, type of beer, location, and even the time of the year, you’re asking.

So it is important to shop and compare their prices so that you can find the best deals for you.

Craft beer vs. Draft Beer’s Characteristics

Regarding varieties, qualities, freshness, control over ingredients, and supporting local businesses, craft and draft beers can give you what you’re expecting from them. Here, we will show you the benefits of craft and draft beer from the following.

Characteristics	Craft Beer	Draft Beer
Variety	It offers a large portion of flavors, brewing methods, and styles.	It is primarily limited when it comes to the selection of flavors.
Quality	It is usually made from high attributes of ingredients and uses a unique brewing method.	It can be affected by brewing methods, storage, and dispensing conditions.
Freshness	It is mainly produced in smaller quantities guaranteeing a fresh taste.	It can be affected by the length of time the dry beer has been kept inside the keg.
Control over ingredients	It allows the breweries to have control over ingredients such as flavors and styles.	It is usually limited to ingredients and brewing techniques.
Supporting Local Business	It supports local, small, and independent breweries, which helps to maintain vibrant communities.	It supports larger commercial breweries, which contributes to the beer industry.

Side-by-Side Differences between Craft Beer and Draft Beer

Let’s take a closer look at the differences between craft beer and draft beer! We’ve got a comparison table ready to go and prepared for you–but remember, these are just general differences and the specifics can vary depending on the type of craft and draft beer being compared. Let’s get started!

Feature	Craft Beer	Draft Beer
Definition	– Typically made by small independent breweries. – Also considered as artisanal.	– You might find on tap at your local breweries or restaurants. – It comes straight from keg or barrel that has a faucet.
Alcohol Content	– It varies widely, with some craft beers having higher alcohol content and others having lower alcohol content.
Flavor and Aroma	– Commonly known for their exceptional flavor. – Has a variety of flavors, styles, and brewing techniques. – Offers a unique and diverse taste.	– The difference differs on how the specific beer is served.
Ingredients	– Known for using high-quality ingredients such as hops, grains, and yeast, that creates a unique aroma.	– It varies depending on how it was brewed.
Cost	– Tends to be more expensive since it is made from high quality ingredients. – The brewing process consumes high amount of time.	– It can be more affordable especially when you buy from bars.
Availability	– Often produced in minimal quantities.	– Can be easily found in many bars and restaurants as a regular offering.

Final Thoughts

Let’s wrap up the discussion on craft beer vs. draft beer! Both are loved by beer enthusiasts and share some commonalities in brewing and ingredients. But, they also stand apart in terms of taste, production, and presentation.

Craft beers stand out with their distinct and diverse flavors, while draft beers shine with their crisp and refreshing taste–It all boils down to your personal preference!

So that’s a wrap, folks! We hope this comparison has aided you in choosing between these two fantastic options. Now, let’s clink our glasses and cheers!