• Purpose: Measures sugar levels before and after fermentation to calculate alcohol content (ABV).
  • Size/Material: Standard glass hydrometer + plastic or glass test jar.
  • Experience Level: Intermediate. Easy to learn but requires careful handling.
  • Pro Tip: Always sanitize your hydrometer before dunking—contamination is the #1 rookie mistake.

FastRack Triple‑Scale Hydrometer + Test Jar Kit – A complete combo with a triple-scale hydrometer and matching test jar. Excellent for accurate OG/FG readings and ABV tracking.

Deluxe Hydrometer Test Kit (includes jar + thief) – Fancy yet functional: includes a plastic test jar and a stainless steel thief for clean sampling.

Brewer’s Elite Triple‑Scale Hydrometer (set) – A premium hydrometer kit with a hard case and cleaning cloth—great for precision and portability (note: jar sold separately).

Fermtech 10″ Plastic Test Jar – Affordable and made of food-grade plastic, this tall 10″ jar is stable and simple—great starter option.

Fermtech Glass Hydrometer Test Jar – A glass jar that delivers clarity and durability—ideal for precise readings and long-term use.

MoreBeer! Hydrometer Test Jar – Basic, reliable, and from a well-known homebrew shop—great if you want a no-fuss jar.

Fermentaholics Hydrometer Test Jar – A mid-range option—clear, sturdy, and easy to clean.

12‑in Glass Hydrometer Test Jar – Taller height gives added stability; handy for higher-proof samples and effortless reading.

Hydrometer Test Jar 200 ml (10‑in) – Compact but tall—needs less sample volume and is space-efficient.

Hydrometer Testing Jar 200 ml – Graduated and clear—designed for precision with minimal waste; perfect for small batches.

Bonus Guidance & Best Practices

 

Opt for jars tall enough to fully float the hydrometer—this is crucial for consistent and accurate readings.

Glass jars offer clarity and scratch resistance; plastic jars are lighter and less fragile—both are valid depending on your comfort level.

A triple-scale hydrometer (SG, Brix, potential ABV) lets you adjust easily across brewing styles and ingredients.

Always sanitize before use, as contamination during gravity checks can spoil a batch.


 

Pro Tip from the Community

 

“I use a three-piece set from Brady Instruments … I like them a lot.”
“A final gravity hydrometer… reads in increments of 0.001 and is very well spaced out.”
—Seasoned brewers sharing their go-to precision tools