The Best Cocktail Shaker for 2023

There are various parameters we had to consider as we made our selection. Each choice on this list was a carefully considered and well-thought option that stood out among the rest considering the purpose we envisioned it serving. Some of the things we considered include:

Material

The material that your shaker is made of is an important factor to consider, especially when thinking long-term. Color-plated metals can have the color flake off after a couple of years of use due to continuous wear and tear. If you plan to continuously use the shaker, such as in a busy bar, it is wiser to pick a purely stainless steel or glass one.

Glass also has its cons; if the shaker is not shatterproof, it poses a health risk to your consumers. Keep in mind that if the glass shaker falls, you will most likely no longer have a working shaker.

Versatility

A more versatile shaker is definitely more desirable in any case. You’ll want to make a small drink at times and a larger one at others. Shakers that allow you to make various sizes of drinks, such as 28 ounces or 18 ounces, are lifesavers. If you are a mixologist looking to purchase a mixer, then a versatile shaker is what you need.

Durability

Shakers are constantly subjected to vigorous actions such as shaking, constant washing, etc. You will need a durable shaker that can see you through the years while maintaining its shape and functionality. The shaker will need to retain its ability to lock tightly and prevent leaks.  It is also important that it gives you the right type of drink you are aiming for; mostly, we prefer a shaker that does not over-dilute or over-aerate the drink inside. The shaker should also allow for easy and thorough cleaning to avoid a buildup of dirt or stains. 

Size and Shape

As stated earlier, the size and shape of your shaker matter a lot. Large shakers tend to be more labor-intensive, meaning you will have a very hard time working a very long shift with a shaker in hand that is very heavy. Most mixologists prefer a standard-size shaker that is easy to handle and use. The shape of the shaker depends on your taste; you can always go for something unique as long as it gets the job done.

Leak-proof

A shaker that spills drinks all over the counter or all over you when mixing is definitely something you’d want. It goes without saying, all the contents should remain inside until poured out when desired. A leaking shaker is the first sign of a bad shaker, and it is probably time to purchase a new one.

Design/style

There are three known designs/ styles of shakers;

The Boston shaker is usually the popular choice for professional bartenders and mixologists. It consists of a large shaker tin combined with either a small shaker tin or a pint glass that fits inside it. Leaks are common if the fittings are not properly installed.

There is also the Cobbler shaker, which is most preferred by beginners because it’s easy to use and includes everything you need to make a drink easily. This shaker type has a tin, a lid with a built-in strainer, and even better, a cap to prevent spills when you shake.

Finally, we have the French shaker, which is basically a hybrid of the Boston and Cobbler cocktail shakers. Its pieces fit together well, and therefore you’re less likely to have problems with leaks than with the Boston shakers. It has a shaker tin and lid like the Cobbler shaker but without the built-in strainer.

Price

Depending on how much you are willing to spend, different shakers have different price tags. It is all up to you to decide what fits your budget. As such, we have different options for you to choose from on this list as you deem fit.

Easy to use

The ease of use of any tool primarily depends on experience. These shakers are simplified as much as possible when it comes to design. We firmly believe that practice makes perfect, so worry less about the ease of use because soon enough it won’t even bother you that much. You will have mastered your shaker and will be making amazing cocktails in no time.