Quick Overview
- 1#1: KegMetrics - Cloud-based software for breweries to track keg inventory, locations, dispatch, returns, and sales in real-time.
- 2#2: Beer30 - Comprehensive keg and draft system management platform for bars, events, and distributors with inventory and usage tracking.
- 3#3: OrchestratedBEER - All-in-one brewery ERP software featuring advanced keg management, production planning, and sales tracking.
- 4#4: Ekos - Brewery management suite with robust keg tracking, inventory control, and integration for production and sales.
- 5#5: Vicinity Software - ERP solution for craft beverage producers offering keg packaging, inventory, and traceability management.
- 6#6: Brewblox - Modular open-source platform for brewing automation including keg dispensing, monitoring, and data logging.
- 7#7: Brewer's Friend - Recipe and brewing management tool with keg logging, volume tracking, and inventory features for home and pro brewers.
- 8#8: Untappd for Business - Draft beer menu and keg tracking app with volume monitoring, promotions, and POS integrations for bars.
- 9#9: BevSpot - Bar and restaurant inventory management software supporting keg counts, usage forecasting, and ordering.
- 10#10: Backbar - Bar management platform for inventory tracking, recipe costing, and keg depletion monitoring.
These tools were selected and ranked based on a balance of robust functionality, user-friendliness, technical reliability, and value, ensuring they cater to both small-scale and enterprise-level requirements.
Comparison Table
Keg management software simplifies inventory tracking and operational efficiency for breweries, taprooms, and event spaces. This comparison table breaks down top tools like KegMetrics, Beer30, OrchestratedBEER, Ekos, Vicinity Software, and more, highlighting key features and differences. Readers will learn how to match the right solution to their unique needs, from small operations to large-scale venues.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | KegMetrics Cloud-based software for breweries to track keg inventory, locations, dispatch, returns, and sales in real-time. | specialized | 9.8/10 | 9.9/10 | 9.6/10 | 9.7/10 |
| 2 | Beer30 Comprehensive keg and draft system management platform for bars, events, and distributors with inventory and usage tracking. | specialized | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.7/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | OrchestratedBEER All-in-one brewery ERP software featuring advanced keg management, production planning, and sales tracking. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 4 | Ekos Brewery management suite with robust keg tracking, inventory control, and integration for production and sales. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Vicinity Software ERP solution for craft beverage producers offering keg packaging, inventory, and traceability management. | enterprise | 6.4/10 | 6.8/10 | 5.9/10 | 6.2/10 |
| 6 | Brewblox Modular open-source platform for brewing automation including keg dispensing, monitoring, and data logging. | specialized | 6.2/10 | 5.8/10 | 5.5/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | Brewer's Friend Recipe and brewing management tool with keg logging, volume tracking, and inventory features for home and pro brewers. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 7.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 8 | Untappd for Business Draft beer menu and keg tracking app with volume monitoring, promotions, and POS integrations for bars. | specialized | 7.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 9 | BevSpot Bar and restaurant inventory management software supporting keg counts, usage forecasting, and ordering. | enterprise | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Backbar Bar management platform for inventory tracking, recipe costing, and keg depletion monitoring. | other | 7.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.2/10 | 6.5/10 |
Cloud-based software for breweries to track keg inventory, locations, dispatch, returns, and sales in real-time.
Comprehensive keg and draft system management platform for bars, events, and distributors with inventory and usage tracking.
All-in-one brewery ERP software featuring advanced keg management, production planning, and sales tracking.
Brewery management suite with robust keg tracking, inventory control, and integration for production and sales.
ERP solution for craft beverage producers offering keg packaging, inventory, and traceability management.
Modular open-source platform for brewing automation including keg dispensing, monitoring, and data logging.
Recipe and brewing management tool with keg logging, volume tracking, and inventory features for home and pro brewers.
Draft beer menu and keg tracking app with volume monitoring, promotions, and POS integrations for bars.
Bar and restaurant inventory management software supporting keg counts, usage forecasting, and ordering.
Bar management platform for inventory tracking, recipe costing, and keg depletion monitoring.
KegMetrics
specializedCloud-based software for breweries to track keg inventory, locations, dispatch, returns, and sales in real-time.
NFC/QR-enabled real-time keg lifecycle tracking from brewery to tap and back, with geolocation for instant visibility.
KegMetrics is a leading keg management software tailored for craft breweries, distributors, and bars, enabling real-time tracking of keg inventory from production to dispensing. It utilizes mobile scanning via QR codes or NFC tags to log fills, deliveries, returns, and sales, while providing dashboards for inventory levels, loss prevention, and predictive analytics. The platform integrates with accounting systems and POS for seamless operations, helping users minimize waste and optimize logistics.
Pros
- Real-time keg tracking with mobile app scanning
- Advanced analytics for loss reduction and forecasting
- Seamless integrations with POS and accounting software
Cons
- Higher pricing tiers for very large enterprises
- Initial setup requires tagging kegs
- Limited customization for niche reporting needs
Best For
Mid-to-large craft breweries and distributors handling high-volume keg logistics who need precise inventory control.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for basic plans (up to 500 kegs), with enterprise tiers at $499+/month based on volume and features.
Beer30
specializedComprehensive keg and draft system management platform for bars, events, and distributors with inventory and usage tracking.
Driver mobile app for instant keg check-ins, location tracking, and proof-of-delivery
Beer30 is a cloud-based brewery ERP platform designed specifically for craft breweries, with robust keg management at its core. It enables real-time tracking of kegs through production, filling, delivery, returns, and deposit reconciliation, using barcode or RFID integration. The software also handles inventory, sales, routes, and accounting, streamlining operations for distributors.
Pros
- Comprehensive real-time keg tracking and deposit management
- Mobile app for drivers with route optimization
- Seamless integrations with QuickBooks and POS systems
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for very small breweries
- Initial setup and learning curve for advanced features
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries with high-volume keg distribution and delivery operations.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing starting at around $500/month for core plans, scaling based on brewery size and keg volume.
OrchestratedBEER
enterpriseAll-in-one brewery ERP software featuring advanced keg management, production planning, and sales tracking.
Advanced RFID keg tagging with geolocation for precise, automated inventory and loss prevention
OrchestratedBEER is a specialized keg management software platform tailored for craft breweries, distributors, and bars, enabling real-time tracking of keg inventory, dispensing, and returns. It utilizes RFID technology and mobile apps to monitor keg locations, fill levels, deposits, and sales data across multiple sites. The system integrates with POS and accounting tools to automate workflows, reduce losses, and optimize logistics for efficient beverage operations.
Pros
- Robust RFID-based real-time keg tracking
- Seamless mobile app for on-the-go management
- Strong integrations with POS and ERP systems
Cons
- Initial setup requires hardware investment
- Reporting customization is somewhat limited
- Customer support response times can vary
Best For
Mid-sized breweries and distributors seeking reliable, scalable keg lifecycle management without overly complex enterprise features.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for up to 500 kegs, with tiered plans scaling to $499+/month based on volume and add-ons like premium integrations.
Ekos
enterpriseBrewery management suite with robust keg tracking, inventory control, and integration for production and sales.
RFID-powered keg tracking with geo-fencing for automated check-ins, returns, and theft prevention
Ekos, from probrew.com, is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP platform designed for breweries, with robust keg management features including RFID tracking, inventory control, dispatching, and deposit management. It provides real-time visibility into keg lifecycles, from filling and cleaning to returns and logistics optimization. Integrated with production, sales, and accounting modules, it streamlines operations for craft breweries scaling up their distribution.
Pros
- Advanced RFID and geo-fencing for precise keg tracking and loss prevention
- Seamless integration with full brewery operations including production and sales
- Scalable dashboards with real-time analytics for inventory and logistics
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive feature set
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller breweries
- Heavy reliance on internet connectivity for mobile keg management
Best For
Mid-sized craft breweries with significant keg distribution needs seeking an all-in-one ERP solution.
Pricing
Custom subscription pricing based on brewery size and modules, typically starting at $500–$1,500/month with implementation fees.
Vicinity Software
enterpriseERP solution for craft beverage producers offering keg packaging, inventory, and traceability management.
Formula-based production management with precise batch costing and traceability
Vicinity Software is a cloud-based ERP platform tailored for formula-based manufacturers, including breweries, focusing on inventory control, batch production, and recipe management. For keg management, it offers solid inventory tracking, lot traceability, and production scheduling that can handle keg filling and basic distribution workflows. However, it lacks specialized keg-specific tools like RFID tracking, deposit management, or route optimization for returns, making it more of a general manufacturing solution than a dedicated keg system.
Pros
- Robust inventory and batch traceability suitable for keg production
- Scalable for mid-sized breweries with integrated ERP functions
- Strong formula/recipe management for beer production consistency
Cons
- Lacks dedicated keg tracking features like deposits or cleaning schedules
- Complex interface with steep learning curve for non-ERP users
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller operations focused solely on kegs
Best For
Mid-sized breweries seeking an all-in-one ERP with adaptable inventory tools rather than pure keg management.
Pricing
Subscription-based with custom quotes; typically starts around $500/month for basic setups, scaling with users and modules.
Brewblox
specializedModular open-source platform for brewing automation including keg dispensing, monitoring, and data logging.
Spark hardware integration for wireless, real-time keg sensor data and automated pressure/temperature control
Brewblox is an open-source automation platform designed primarily for homebrewing, enabling precise control over temperature, pressure, and other parameters in brewing processes via compatible hardware like Spark controllers. For keg management, it offers real-time monitoring of keg conditions such as temperature and pressure through sensor integration and customizable dashboards. However, it lacks dedicated features for inventory tracking, dispensing logs, sales integration, or multi-keg fleet management found in specialized keg software. It's best suited as a supplementary tool for tech-savvy brewers focusing on conditioning and storage automation rather than commercial operations.
Pros
- Fully open-source and free to use
- Highly modular with drag-and-drop logic for custom automations
- Excellent hardware integration for precise keg monitoring (e.g., temperature, pressure)
Cons
- Limited keg-specific features like inventory or sales tracking
- Steep learning curve requiring Docker and technical setup
- No native support for commercial keg dispensing or fleet management
Best For
Homebrewers or small-scale operators who want affordable, customizable hardware automation for keg conditioning and monitoring.
Pricing
Free and open-source software; requires separate purchase of compatible hardware (e.g., Spark controllers starting at ~$50).
Brewer's Friend
specializedRecipe and brewing management tool with keg logging, volume tracking, and inventory features for home and pro brewers.
Direct batch-to-keg assignment linking recipes and fermentation data to inventory tracking
Brewer's Friend is a cloud-based brewing management platform that offers keg tracking as part of its comprehensive suite for homebrewers and small craft operations. It allows users to inventory kegs, monitor volumes and balances, assign kegs to batches, track locations and dispensing, and integrate with recipe formulation and fermentation logs. The software supports mobile access for on-the-go updates, making it a versatile tool for managing the full brewing-to-kegging workflow.
Pros
- Integrated keg tracking with full brewing workflow from recipe to dispense
- Cloud syncing and mobile app for real-time inventory updates
- Affordable pricing with robust free tier for basic keg management
Cons
- Dated user interface that can feel clunky for keg-specific tasks
- Limited advanced analytics or automation compared to dedicated keg software
- Some key features like detailed keg history require paid upgrade
Best For
Homebrewers and small-scale brewers seeking an all-in-one platform with solid but not specialized keg management.
Pricing
Free basic plan; Gold ($34.99/year) for advanced features; Platinum ($99.99/year) for full pro tools.
Untappd for Business
specializedDraft beer menu and keg tracking app with volume monitoring, promotions, and POS integrations for bars.
Seamless integration with the 10M+ user Untappd app for check-ins, badges, and promotions that directly promote your on-tap kegs
Untappd for Business is a venue management platform from the popular beer discovery app Untappd, designed for bars, breweries, and restaurants to handle keg and draft inventories alongside customer engagement tools. It enables real-time updates to digital tap lists, keg boards, and menus, while tracking sales, pours, and inventory levels through POS integrations. The software emphasizes marketing features like customer check-ins and badges to drive traffic and loyalty, but provides solid basics for keg monitoring without requiring specialized hardware.
Pros
- Strong customer engagement via Untappd app integrations and promotions
- User-friendly interface for quick tap list and menu updates
- Basic inventory tracking and sales analytics with POS compatibility
Cons
- Lacks advanced real-time keg level monitoring or IoT sensor support
- Reporting and forecasting tools are somewhat limited compared to dedicated keg software
- Best suited for customer-facing venues rather than production-focused breweries
Best For
Bars and taprooms seeking to blend simple keg management with social marketing to boost customer interaction and foot traffic.
Pricing
Starts at $99/month per location for core features, with Pro ($199/month) and Enterprise plans adding advanced analytics and custom integrations.
BevSpot
enterpriseBar and restaurant inventory management software supporting keg counts, usage forecasting, and ordering.
Real-time keg dip tracking and automated reorder suggestions based on sales velocity
BevSpot is a comprehensive beverage inventory management platform tailored for bars, restaurants, and hospitality businesses, specializing in tracking kegs, bottles, and cases. It offers real-time keg level monitoring, pour tracking, usage forecasting, and automated purchasing to minimize waste and optimize stock levels. The software integrates with POS systems and scales for accurate draft system management, providing actionable insights into beverage costs and sales.
Pros
- Robust keg tracking with dip readings and forecasting
- Seamless POS integrations for accurate pour data
- Mobile app for on-the-go inventory management
Cons
- Pricing can be steep for small venues
- Initial setup and learning curve for full features
- Limited advanced analytics compared to top competitors
Best For
Mid-sized bars and restaurants with high-volume draft programs needing integrated beverage inventory control.
Pricing
Custom pricing starting at ~$250/month per location, plus setup fees and per-case scanning costs.
Backbar
otherBar management platform for inventory tracking, recipe costing, and keg depletion monitoring.
Real-time POS integrations that automatically adjust keg inventory based on sales data
Backbar is a cloud-based inventory management software tailored for bars and restaurants, providing tools to track liquor bottles, wine, and beer kegs with features like depletion logging and purchase order generation. For keg management, it supports manual level tracking via dipstick or weight inputs, usage forecasting, and integration with POS systems for real-time inventory updates. The platform also offers recipe costing, sales analytics, and mobile inventory counting to help optimize bar operations and reduce waste.
Pros
- User-friendly mobile app for quick inventory counts including keg levels
- Strong POS integrations for automated sales tracking and keg depletion
- Recipe costing tools that incorporate keg usage for profitability analysis
Cons
- No support for automated keg sensors or remote monitoring
- Pricing is relatively high for keg-only focused users
- Keg-specific reporting lacks depth compared to specialized tools
Best For
Bars and restaurants seeking an all-in-one inventory solution with reliable manual keg tracking alongside broader beverage management.
Pricing
Starts at $149/month for Essentials (up to 5 users), $249/month for Pro, and custom Enterprise pricing.
Conclusion
The top 10 keg management tools deliver strong solutions, each suited to distinct needs in breweries and hospitality. KegMetrics reigns as the top choice, offering real-time tracking of inventory, locations, and sales for a comprehensive keg oversight. Beer30 and OrchestratedBEER stand as strong alternatives, with Beer30 excelling for bars and distributors, and OrchestratedBEER as a standout for integrated ERP and production planning.
Whether you run a brewery, bar, or distribution network, KegMetrics leads the way—dive in to experience streamlined keg management and take control of your operations.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
Referenced in the comparison table and product reviews above.
