Krups Beertender Compact Ultimate
H. Koenig bw1778
Cecotec BeerFlow Steel 5000
Klarstein Skal
The best beer tap for home
Few things are more enjoyable than having a freshly poured beer without needing to leave home. Among lovers of this lightly golden drink, there are two clear groups: those who prefer bottled beer and those who only enjoy beer when it is draft. And there is no doubt they taste different. However, despite this latter group, it is not always possible to enjoy a well-poured draft. At least not unless you have a beer tap at home like the ones we tested at EL PAÍS Escaparate.
Read more Indictment of Zapatero for the ‘Plus Ultra case’, live |
Which beer taps we chose and how we tested them
To compare the different beer taps, we considered fundamental features in this type of product, from the material and cooling system to compatible keg formats, design, and aesthetics of each. The final selection of taps was: Krups, H.Koenig, Cecotec, and Klarstein Skal.
During the tests, we analyzed everything from the first minute. We started by seeing how the machines were packaged, if they included instruction manuals, and how many additional components were in the box. Once placed on a table, we evaluated other more technical aspects, observing weight, design, build quality, and ease of use.
We also checked the operation of each tap, as well as the sensitivity when pouring draft beers. Finally, we paid special attention to the keg change process and the subsequent cleaning of each device.
Which beer tap was the winner?
The best thing about the Krups Beertender Compact Ultimate beer tap is its ease of use and installation. Besides being a simple and discreet design, it has an LED indicator that shows the liters remaining in the keg.
The Krups tap works with a pressure system to dispense the beer and has cooling capacity, maintaining a constant temperature of 4 ºC. When it reaches the appropriate temperature, the LED light turns green as a “ready to serve” indicator. This indicator is also divided into five lights to show the liters of beer available in the keg.
What we liked most about this home beer dispenser is its ergonomics: to place the keg, just connect the tube to the top of it and place the other end in the tap. Once ready, plug it in to start cooling the 5 liters of beer, a process that takes several hours if the keg was not previously cold.
To improve: only works with 5 L kegs from the Heineken group (Heineken, Affligem Blonde, Affligem Blanche, Desperados, Desperados Red, Pelforth, Lagunitas IPA, Gallia)
Other alternatives to the best home beer tap
Best value for money: H. Koenig bw1778
For those looking for a good value option, the H. Koenig BW1778 design is one of the best alternatives. Also, a very important point in its favor is that it is compatible with both Heineken kegs and universal 5 L kegs.
Why do we recommend it?
The feel of this home beer tap is like pouring a draft at a bar counter. The removable drip tray means you don’t have to worry if you spill something, as it cleans easily. It also has non-slip feet that ensure greater stability on different surfaces, making it easy to find a place to put it.
During testing, the tap feels comfortable although, at first, it is a bit tricky to find the balance between beer and foam. However, after pouring half a dozen drafts, you quickly get the hang of it. The drink stays fresh thanks to the cooling system, which keeps the beer at a constant 4 °C to maximize flavor. Also, the dispenser keeps the beer fresh up to 30 days after opening the keg.
To improve: it takes a bit of practice to control the foam amount with the tap.
Cecotec BeerFlow Steel 5000 Dispenser
The Cecotec dispenser performs well as a home beer tap, although we found it the most complex to understand regarding operation and assembly of parts. Still, it is a good option for those looking for a versatile tap, with adjustable temperature and compatible with universal 5 L kegs.
Why do we recommend it?
Its cooling system allows temperature regulation between 2 and 12 ºC, ensuring the drink is always at the right temperature, as not all beers should be served the same. For example, IPAs are usually served slightly cold — between 7 and 10 ºC — while lagers are served between 3 and 7 ºC. To control this, an LED screen on top of the tap shows the temperature at all times.
Another feature we liked is that, like the previous model in the comparison, it is also compatible with universal 5 L kegs. Additionally, it allows pressure adjustment, which helps serve the right amount of foam and provides a more professional result.
During use, we noticed the motor makes a slight noise while running. Although not excessive, it is noticeable when it stays on.
To improve: the instructions are not especially clear when installing the keg, and it is the model that is hardest to get the hang of during assembly.
Klarstein Skal Beer Tap
For those looking for a professional design beer tap, this Klarstein model is one of the best options thanks to its elegant style, capable of fitting both in a kitchen corner and in the garden during a barbecue.
Why do we recommend it?
With a stainless steel finish, this design is quite similar to the previous ones, although one difference is that it uses a CO₂ cartridge to provide the necessary pressure when dispensing beer, although it is only needed for some compatible kegs.
When installing it, we found its operation simple and intuitive, both for placing and replacing the keg. The cooling system is key to enjoying a well-chilled beer, specifically between 2 °C and 12 °C, although it takes several hours to fully cool the keg.
Once ready to serve, the tap is smooth and allows easy adjustment of foam amount to taste. Like other similar models, it makes some noise during operation due to the motor, although nothing particularly annoying.
We also checked the capacity of the drip tray, which is somewhat small and needs to be emptied several times during continuous use, although it is easy to clean.
To improve: it makes some noise and the drip tray has limited capacity.
Frequently asked questions about home beer taps
Are home beer taps worth it?
Whether you like well-poured beers or are a great host who enjoys always having people at home, this device can become a great ally. It allows you to enjoy a draft anytime while keeping the keg cold as long as the machine is plugged in, and it can keep beer fresh up to 30 days after opening.
Is it difficult to install?
These home products are a reduced version of the taps we see in bars. However, their installation and operation are designed for any user. They require minimal setup and, in most cases, are very intuitive. They also usually include drip trays and simple cleaning systems to facilitate maintenance.
How to choose the best one?
Before buying a home beer tap, it is advisable to consider key aspects such as compatibility with different kegs, cooling system, device size, and ease of cleaning. It is also important to consider the price and intended use, as if it will only be used occasionally, a balanced model in quality-price may suffice.
*All purchase prices included in this article are updated as of May 21, 2026.
You can follow EL PAÍS ESCAPARATE on Instagram, or subscribe here to our Newsletter.
Read more Albares assures that the Spaniards of the flotilla detained in Israel will be returned today
