Single Tap vs Dual Tap Kegerator: Which One Should You Choose?
Deciding between a single tap and a dual tap kegerator affects how many beers you can serve. We compare specs, price, and real owner feedback to help you pick.
A dual tap kegerator is the better choice for most home bar owners who want variety and hosting flexibility, but a single tap kegerator wins on simplicity and lower cost. The choice between single tap vs dual tap kegerator comes down to how many beers you want on draft and how much space you have.
Single tap kegerators are straightforward: one keg, one beer, no confusion. They are typically less expensive and take up less space. Dual tap kegerators let you serve two different beers at once, which is great for parties or if you like variety. However, they cost more and need a larger footprint. Both types have happy owners, but long term satisfaction often hinges on whether your social habits match the capacity. We analyzed dozens of Amazon reviews and specs to see which configurations deliver lasting value.
Single Tap Kegerator Pros and Cons
A single tap kegerator is the entry point for home draft beer. It holds one keg and dispenses one style at a time. The biggest advantage is price: models like the Kegco K209SS-1 are around $759 and have a 4.2 star rating across 68 reviews. They are compact, often fitting under counters or in small bars. The simplicity means fewer parts to clean or break. On the downside, you are limited to one beer. If you have guests who prefer different styles, you will need bottles or cans. Over months, some owners note they wish they had a second tap for variety. Single tap units also tend to have smaller total capacity, usually 5.6 cu ft, which fits a half barrel or a sixth barrel depending on the tower.
Dual Tap Kegerator Pros and Cons
A dual tap kegerator holds two kegs and can serve two different beers simultaneously. This is ideal for parties or households where tastes vary. The EdgeStar KC2000SSTWIN, priced at $829, is a popular dual tap model with a 4.4 star average from 744 reviews. Owners consistently praise the ability to have a lager and an IPA on draft. The downside is cost and size. Dual tap units are generally larger and heavier. The Kegco K209SS-2, also 5.6 cu ft but with two towers, costs $877. You also need to manage two CO2 lines and two couplers. Some long term reviews mention that the second tap gets less use if you are not a heavy entertainer. But for those who host often, the dual tap is a favorite.
Comparing Cost and Value Over Time
Initial cost is a clear differentiator. Single tap kegerators start around $759 (Kegco K209SS-1) while dual tap models begin around $829 (EdgeStar KC2000SSTWIN) and go up to $877 for the Kegco K209SS-2. The price gap is modest, so the decision often rides on usage rather than budget. Over a year, dual tap owners may spend more on two kegs, but they also have less need for bottled backup beer. Single tap owners might buy more packaged beer to supplement. Replacement parts like faucets and couplers are similar in cost. Real buyer reviews show that both configurations hold up well if maintained, but dual tap units have more components that could need service. The EdgeStar dual tap has a high satisfaction rate even after months of use.
Space and Installation Considerations
Single tap kegerators are more space efficient. The Kegco K209SS-1 is freestanding, 75.8 lb, and fits in tight spots. Dual tap units like the Kegco K209SS-2 are 97 lb and wider due to the two towers. If you have limited counter or floor space, a single tap is easier to place. Installation is similar for both: plug in, attach CO2, and tap the keg. Dual tap requires more careful routing of two gas lines. Both types need proper ventilation. For built in setups, commercial units like the TRUE Manufacturing 27682 (single tap, $3063) are an option but are much larger and heavier. Most home users prefer the compact, freestanding consumer models.
Maintenance and Cleaning Differences
Both single and dual tap kegerators need regular cleaning. Single tap systems have fewer parts: one faucet, one coupler, one beer line. Cleaning takes about 15 minutes. Dual tap systems double that time. You must clean both lines and faucets to avoid off flavors. Long term reviews on the EdgeStar dual tap note that some owners skip the second line, which leads to clogs. The Kegco K209SS series has electric defrost on both models, reducing ice buildup. Overall, if you dislike maintenance, a single tap is simpler. If you enjoy tinkering, the dual tap offers more to manage but also more reward.
Which One Delivers Better Long Term Satisfaction?
Looking at review patterns, the EdgeStar KC2000SSTWIN dual tap has a 4.4 star average across 744 reviews, indicating very high long term satisfaction. Owners frequently mention they still love having two beers on tap months later. The Kegco K209SS-1 single tap has 4.2 stars from 68 reviews, also positive but fewer data points. The Kegco K209SS-2 dual tap has 4.5 stars from 27 reviews. While all are well rated, the dual tap models edge ahead for owners who entertain. For solo drinkers or minimalists, the single tap is sufficient and less costly. The key is honesty about your habits: if you regularly want two beers, get the dual tap; if not, save space with a single.
Top Models to Consider
For dual tap, the EdgeStar KC2000SSTWIN at $829 and 4.4 stars is the best rated option with a large review sample. It is compact and reliable. The Kegco K209SS-2 at $877 is slightly more expensive but also well reviewed with 4.5 stars. For single tap, the Kegco K209SS-1 at $759 and 4.2 stars is a solid choice. These three models represent the best consumer grade options. For commercial duty, the TRUE Manufacturing 27682 at $3063 is a single tap unit built to last, but it has only 1 review and is very expensive. The Beverage Air BM23C-B at $3050 is another commercial option with no reviews yet. Most home users will be happiest with the EdgeStar or Kegco models.
Frequently asked questions
Can I convert a single tap kegerator to dual tap?
Yes, you can often add a second tap to a single tap kegerator if the unit has space for a second keg. You will need a dual gauge regulator, a second coupler, and a tower with two faucets. Cost can be $100-$200. Check internal dimensions first.
Which is easier to clean, single tap or dual tap?
Single tap is easier. You have one beer line, one faucet, and one coupler. Cleaning takes 15 minutes. Dual tap doubles that time and you must clean both lines regularly to prevent off flavors.
Does a dual tap use more electricity than a single tap?
Generally not. Both use a compressor to cool the interior. The number of taps does not affect power consumption. However, if the dual tap unit is larger, it may use slightly more energy.
Can I put a dual tap kegerator under a counter?
Yes, many dual tap models like the EdgeStar KC2000SSTWIN are freestanding and fit under standard countertops. Check clearance for the tower height and ensure ventilation.