The demand for canned beer continues to grow, with consumers and brewers alike embracing the sip-n-go packaging. While standard 12-ounce cans remain a constant, breweries have enriched their offerings with variant shapes, sizes and designs, penetrating the beer market quite stupendously.

In the past, breweries had limited packaging options with regard to beer cans. Advanced technologies, however, have bolstered the canning sector, making micro canning lines and fillers accessible even to small-scale breweries. Smaller breweries that lack canning facilities can now avail mobile canning services to package their beer varietals, including wild and funky ales.

As the diversity of beer cans continues to rise, so does labelling and aesthetic innovation. While large breweries can print directly on bulk cans, smaller producers who cannot meet such large-scale need have chosen to employ wraparound labels on blank cans. Notably, these labels should be removed prior to recycling, due to their vinyl composition – a material that can cause fires in smelting facilities, thus disrupting the waste stream.

The ability to choose from an array of boxed or chilled cans to suit every preference, from a day at the beach to a backyard barbecue, certainly adds appeal to consumers. Whether you are an ale connoisseur or a beer rookie, there's an ideal size and style waiting just for you.

With an ample selection of packaged beers now available, here's a breakdown of six common beer can sizes and their appellations. The “stubbies” hold half a pint of beer, great for a small amount or a nightcap. Some breweries are now packaging high-voltage brews in single-serve cans.

The 12-ounce cans are the quintessential beer cans, available widely in packs of 6, 12, 15, 24, and 30. The convenience they offer with a moderate beer strength makes them a popular choice.

Pint cans, also known as tallboys or pounders, are typically seen sold in four-packs. This can size is the preferred choice for many craft beers.

Stovepipe cans have become a favorite in the craft beer market, especially when it comes to single-serve sales. Often consumed within hours of purchase, the 19.2-ounce cans are commonly observed at convenience stores.

Somewhat less common, but still a favorite for flavored malt beverages like hard tea and seltzers, are the 25-ounce cans. They’re certain to be spotted at your next tailgate social.

The introduction of the “crowler”-a canned growler, has proved apposite for canned beer enthusiasts preferring to take their beer home. This 32-ounce can, filled and sealed on order, offers extended shelf life, yet should ideally be consumed within a few days of being filled.