Brewing Equipment for Beginners

You want to start homebrewing but don't know what you really need? Here's my honest assessment.

Basic Equipment

Must have:

1. Brew Kettle (20-30L)

- For 10-20L batch size
- Stainless steel or enamel
- Budget: €30-80

2. Fermenter (25-30L)

- Plastic bucket with lid
- Or glass carboy
- Budget: €15-40

3. Airlock

- Lets CO2 out, no air in
- Budget: €2-5

4. Thermometer

- Digital or analog
- Range: 0-100°C
- Budget: €10-25

5. Hydrometer

- For measuring density
- Budget: €8-15

6. Bottling Equipment

- Bottles (collect them!)
- Caps + capper
- Budget: €20-40

Nice to have (later):

• Mash bag/false bottom - For clean lautering

• Immersion chiller - Fast cooling

• Refractometer - Easier measurements

• All-in-one system - Automated solution

Budget Options

Minimal setup (~€100):

• Large pot (already have one?)

• Fermentation bucket

• Thermometer

• Hydrometer

• Bottles (collect)

Starter kit (~€200-300):

• Everything above plus

• Kettle with spigot

• Immersion chiller

• Better thermometer

My Tip

Start with the minimum and expand as needed. You'll quickly notice what you're missing. And: Many things can be improvised!

What You DON'T Need (at first)

• Expensive automated systems

• Professional cooling tech

• Huge fermenters

• Special cleaning products (dish soap works)

Create your first recipe with our Wizard - it adapts to your equipment!

AI Tip: Recipes for Your Equipment

Our AI recipe generator considers your equipment setup — whether BIAB, all-in-one, or professional system. The AI automatically adjusts amounts, brewhouse efficiency, and mash methods to your brewing setup.