What Are Beer Mugs Called? Complete Guide to Beer Glassware Names
If you've ever searched for beer mugs online, you've likely come across multiple names — stein, tankard, mug, dimple, mass. It can be confusing, especially when the same glass is called different things in different countries.
The short answer: there is no single name. The correct term depends on the shape, material, origin, and even the volume of the glass.
Here's a breakdown of the most common types.
🍺 Mug (Standard Beer Mug)
The most straightforward term. A beer mug is simply a drinking vessel with a handle and thick walls. It's sturdy, holds a lot (often half a liter or more), and keeps beer cold longer thanks to the thick glass.
Common uses: American lagers, German-style beers, casual drinking.
🍻 Stein (Steinkrug)
"Stein" is probably the most famous German beer mug. But here's the detail: in German, Stein literally means "stone." So a glass mug isn't technically a stein. The correct German term is Steinkrug (often shortened to Krug), which refers specifically to a stoneware mug.
Traditional steins often have a pewter or ceramic lid. This wasn't just decoration — it dates back to the Black Plague era, when lids prevented infected flies from falling into the beer.
Ideal for: Dunkel, Helles, Märzen, Festbier — traditional German lagers.
🏺 Tankard
A tankard is similar to a stein but generally made of silver, pewter, or glass, with a cylindrical body and a hinged lid. The shape is simpler and less decorative than a stein.
Best for: Large servings of ale or lager, pub settings.
🥃 Dimple Mug (or Dimple Stein)
You've probably seen this one — the classic glass mug with thick dimples (bumps) covering the surface. In German, these are called Kugel ("ball") because of the round protrusions. The dimples serve a practical purpose: they make the mug easier to grip when wet, and they add strength to the glass.
Best for: British ales, bitters, German-style beers.
🍺 Mass (or Maß)
If you've been to Oktoberfest, you've seen a Mass (pronounced "moss"). This is the one-liter beer mug served at the festival, usually with dimples and a handle. The name comes from the German word for volume — it's literally a liter of beer.
Best for: Helles, Märzen, Festbier.
🧐 Tübinger
A lesser-known but historically interesting style. The Tübinger is a wide, stocky mug with a dimpled design, originally from the German university town of Tübingen. Its wide mouth lets you "stick your whole face in it," making it great for appreciating subtle lager aromas.
Best for: Czech-style lagers, subtle German lagers.
📋 Quick Reference Table
| Name | Material | Distinctive Feature | Typical Volume |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mug | Glass, ceramic, stoneware | Thick walls, sturdy handle | 0.3–1L |
| Stein / Krug | Stoneware or ceramic | Hinged lid (often pewter) | 0.5–1L |
| Tankard | Glass, pewter, silver | Cylindrical body, lid | ~1 pint (0.47L) |
| Dimple Mug | Glass | Dimples / bumps on surface | 0.3–1L |
| Mass | Glass | Large, dimpled, 1-liter capacity | 1L |
Looking for the perfect mug to match your style? Explore our beer mug collection for breweries and bars — each piece is crafted to enhance your drinking experience, whether you're serving a crisp lager or a bold ale.
Why Does the Name Matter?
For a casual drinker, it might not. But for a bar, brewery, or beer enthusiast, the glass shape directly affects aroma, foam retention, and temperature control. That's why many European breweries serve each beer in its own specific glass — in Belgium, if you order a beer, it comes in that brand's designated glass, no questions asked.
What Type of Mug Should You Use?
For everyday lagers and ales: a standard mug or dimple mug works well.
For German beer garden vibes: a stein or Mass adds authenticity.
For British pub style: a tankard is the classic choice.
For serving multiple styles: consider stocking a few key types — pint glasses, dimple mugs, and weizen glasses cover most bases.
Want to dive deeper? Download our full glassware catalog and spec sheets — it includes detailed dimensions, material comparisons, and care instructions for every mug style we offer. Perfect for bulk buyers and bar owners.
Final Thoughts
A beer mug has many names, but the right one comes down to material, shape, and tradition. Whether you call it a stein, tankard, or dimple mug, the goal is the same: enjoying your beer at the right temperature, with good foam, and in a glass that feels right in your hand.
Need help choosing? Browse our selection of premium beer mugs — designed for the freezer, dishwasher, and daily use.
