# Best Test Jars for Homebrew Hydrometer Samples (2026) Source: https://homebrewcraft.com/best/test-jars Updated: 2026-09-14 Publisher: Home Brew Craft. Our score is an editorial rating out of 10 (fit 35%, features 25%, build 20%, value 20%), not a customer rating. Method: https://homebrewcraft.com/how-we-research#our-score A test jar is the tall cylinder that holds a sample so your hydrometer can float freely and give a clean reading. Height is the first thing to check, because the jar has to be deep enough for the hydrometer to float without bottoming out or bumping the sides. Plastic jars shrug off drops and suit a busy bench, while glass gives a clearer view of the scale and resists scratching over time. A wide, stable base keeps the whole thing from tipping when you drop a sample in, which saves both your beer and your hydrometer. Any brewer using a hydrometer needs a test jar to go with it, since taking readings in the fermenter is awkward and risks contamination. It pairs directly with your hydrometer, and a size matched to that tool avoids the frustration of a float that will not settle. Choose plastic if you tend to knock things over and glass if you value a crisp view of the reading. Sanitize it like any other gear if you plan to return the sample, though many brewers simply taste the sample and pour it away. ## Picks ### 1. Fermentaholics Hydrometer Test Jar & Measuring Cylinder 250 ML Our score: 8.2/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) Fermentaholics hydrometer test jar and measuring cylinder with 250 ML capacity for gravity readings. Pros: - 250 ML capacity floats most standard hydrometers - Doubles as a measuring cylinder for water and additions - Fermentaholics focuses on fermentation gear with clear markings Cons: - Check whether the test jar is glass or plastic before ordering - Tall narrow jar can tip over on uneven surfaces Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B07K7RDT3C ### 2. Chicago Brew Werks 14" Plastic Hydrometer Test Jar Our score: 8.2/10 (Fit for the job 9/10 · Features and specs 8/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) Chicago Brew Werks 14" plastic hydrometer test jar, a tall sample jar for longer hydrometers. Pros: - 14" height lets long hydrometers float without touching bottom - Plastic jar resists breaking during busy brew days - Tall shape gives accurate readings for high-gravity samples Cons: - Tall jar needs more sample liquid than short tubes - Plastic walls may scratch and blur the meniscus over time Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B00SLY3ES2 ### 3. Brewing America Glass Hydrometer Test Tube Jar & Cylinder Brush Our score: 7.8/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 8/10 · Value 8/10) Brewing America glass hydrometer test tube jar with a cylinder brush for cleaning after readings. Pros: - Glass jar stays clear and does not absorb odors - Cylinder brush included for scrubbing out sticky wort - Useful combo for brewers replacing a basic plastic tube Cons: - Glass can break if knocked off the counter - Check the jar volume and height before ordering Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B075VDB394 ### 4. HOBBYIN 250 ML Hydrometer Test Jar Measuring Cylinder Our score: 7.6/10 (Fit for the job 8/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) HOBBYIN 250 ML hydrometer test jar measuring cylinder, a basic sample jar for beer and wine gravity checks. Pros: - 250 ML size fits typical triple scale hydrometers - Graduated markings help measure small liquid additions - Affordable replacement for a broken test jar Cons: - Lesser-known brand with limited detail on material thickness - Sample volume is fairly large, which wastes more wort per reading Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B0CHJFNP7D ### 5. 100ml Hydrometer Test Tube for Homebrew Beer Wine Our score: 7.2/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) A 100ml hydrometer test tube for homebrew beer and wine, a compact sample tube for smaller hydrometers. Pros: - 100ml size uses less wort per gravity reading - Compact tube stores easily with the hydrometer - Good choice for small batch brewers who cannot spare much sample Cons: - May be too short for full size hydrometers to float freely - Narrow tube can let the hydrometer stick to the walls Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B0DR1K5867 ### 6. Hydrometer Test Tube Plastic Graduated Cylinder 100ml Clear Scale Our score: 7.2/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 7/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 8/10) A plastic graduated 100ml hydrometer test tube with clear scale markings for homebrew gravity samples. Pros: - Plastic build will not shatter if knocked over - Clear scale markings double as a small measuring cylinder - Low sample volume conserves precious wort or mead Cons: - Short tube may not suit longer hydrometers - Plastic can scratch and cloud with repeated cleaning Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B0FD73LXVD ### 7. Glass Hydrometer Test Jar Our score: 6.5/10 (Fit for the job 7/10 · Features and specs 5/10 · Build and materials 7/10 · Value 7/10) A basic glass hydrometer test jar for holding wort or wine samples while taking gravity readings. Pros: - Glass jar is easy to sanitize and keeps readings clear - Simple replacement for a broken or cloudy plastic tube - Heavy glass base is more stable than lightweight plastic Cons: - Check the jar size fits your hydrometer before ordering - Glass is fragile around hard floors and sinks Details: https://homebrewcraft.com/product/B00KN2AP6Y As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.