If you're shopping for a tumbler or selling custom drinkware, one of the first questions that comes up is simple: How many ounces are in a tumbler?
There is no single answer, as tumblers come in many different sizes. These various sizes accommodate different drinking habits and tumbler uses. Some are designed for short coffee breaks, while others are perfect for all-day hydration. A tumbler's ounce capacity can also affect how well it sells and how easy it is to customize.
Typically, this trendy drinkware comes in 20-oz, 30-oz, and 40-oz tumblers, but numerous other sizes are available at The Stainless Depot Company and other tumbler suppliers.
In this tumbler guide, we'll explore common sizes and factors that can help you determine which size is ideal for you. You'll also learn about the most popular tumbler sizes and which are best for customization and resale.
Whether you need a single tumbler for personal use or wholesale tumblers to customize and sell, this guide will help you find the right drinkware.
Common Tumbler Sizes and What They Are Used For
Tumblers are not one-size-fits-all products. Different sizes impact a tumbler's portability, convenience, and customization options.
Below is a basic breakdown of common tumbler sizes and how people use them.
Mini Tumblers (3 to 4 Oz)
Mini tumblers are small stainless steel cups that usually hold 3-4 ounces. Typically, these are intended as novelty items or for storing small beverages.
These small tumblers are commonly used as:
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Espresso cups
- Shot-style novelty cups
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Party favors
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Add-ons to gift sets
- Stocking stuffers
For crafters, mini tumblers are useful for bundles and seasonal promotions. They take less material and can help increase average order value when paired with a full-size tumbler.
Mini tumblers are also great for displaying custom designs at events and farmers' markets. You can showcase your various custom offerings without having to lug around heavy drinkware. Instead, someone can select their favorite design and order a full-size tumbler from your website or Etsy store.
12-Oz Tumblers
12-oz tumblers are similar in size to traditional coffee mugs, making them great for your morning brew and other hot drinks. They also make excellent tumblers for kids.
Additionally, customers who prefer smaller portions or want a tumbler that's easy to carry often select this size. It's also easier to store than larger tumblers, making it a good choice for those with limited cabinet space.
16-Oz Tumblers
A 16-oz tumbler is slightly larger than a typical mug, but smaller than most full-size tumblers. Like the 12-oz, this size is ideal for kids and is easy to carry, but it holds slightly more liquid for extra convenience.
Most disposable plastic water bottles are 16 oz, so carrying a 16-oz tumbler is a practical choice for staying hydrated while still being highly portable.
20-Oz Tumblers
A 20-oz tumbler is one of the most recognizable and widely used sizes. Here are some of the reasons why it's such a popular size:
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20-oz tumblers fit in most car cup holders
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These tumblers are easy to carry
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They have a comfortable weight when full
- These tumblers work for both hot and cold drinks
20-oz tumblers are especially popular among drinkware crafters. They work well for sublimation, epoxy, and engraving when properly coated, and they are often hot-selling items.
30-Oz Tumblers
A 30-oz tumbler offers a larger capacity than the 20-oz, while still being incredibly popular. These containers are ideal for:
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Long workdays
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Travel
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Outdoor activities
- Improved hydration with fewer refills
This size is popular among those who want to drink more water while still enjoying the convenience of portability. 30-oz tumblers are also great for crafters, as straight-wall constructions fit easily in most heat presses.
40-Oz Tumblers
A 40-oz tumbler is the perfect size for those who want to stay hydrated throughout the day without constantly stopping for refills. People often select these tumblers if they:
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Spend long hours away from home
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Want to track hydration goals
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Lack easy access to refills
- Spend time on outdoor adventures
While large, many 40-oz tumblers are still easy to carry, as they include sturdy, removable handles. Some also feature tapered shapes, making them easy to fit in most car cup holders.
What Is the Most Popular Tumbler Size?
The most popular tumbler sizes are 20-oz and 30-oz, and they are a go-to choice for most tumbler enthusiasts. These sizes strike a balance between capacity, portability, and everyday convenience.
If you sell custom tumblers, these sizes should be part of your standard lineup, or you may want to buy one for personal use.
Some of their key benefits include:
- Easy customization
- Conveniently fit in standard cup holders
- Comfortable to hold and carry throughout the day
- Suitable for both hot and cold beverages
- Lightweight compared to larger tumbler sizes
- Versatile enough for work, travel, and daily errands
Overall, 20-oz and 30-oz tumblers appeal to the broadest audience because they meet everyday hydration needs without feeling bulky. Whether you’re creating custom designs to sell or choosing a tumbler for daily use, these sizes are a safe bet.
What Is the Best Tumbler Size for Sublimation Printing?
Various tumbler sizes can work for sublimation printing, but typically, you should use 20-oz and 30-oz tumblers. These sizes are especially ideal if you use a sublimation heat press, as most presses cannot accommodate sizes greater than 30 oz.
Although 20-oz and 30-oz tumblers are ideal, not all tumblers in those sizes are suitable for sublimation. Before making a purchase, you should make sure the cups are sublimation tumblers.
Sublimation blanks differ from typical tumblers because they feature polymer coatings optimized for heat transfer. This coating is necessary for the sublimation ink to bond to the tumbler's surface when applying heat and pressure. You cannot sublimate a tumbler unless it features this polyester-based coating, even if it's stainless steel.
Additionally, the quality of a sublimation tumbler also matters when customizing drinkware. Discount suppliers may feature competitive prices, but these products often lack consistent, high-quality coatings. Opting for low-quality sublimation tumblers can lead to failed designs, wasting your time and money.
Another essential quality to look for when selecting a tumbler for sublimation is its shape. Straight-wall tumblers are ideal for sublimation because they allow the sublimation paper to sit flat against the surface. This helps prevent faded spots and uneven color. Tapered tumblers can be sublimated, but they often require additional wraps or attachments to achieve consistent prints.
For a full comparison of sublimation-ready options, check out our guide "What Is the Best Tumbler for Sublimation?"
What Is the Best Tumbler Size for Epoxy Resin Crafting?
Not all tumblers are easy to work with when it comes to epoxy resin. The size and shape of the tumbler have a major impact on how smoothly the epoxy spreads, how long it takes to cure, and how easy it is to achieve a professional finish.
For most crafters, 20-oz skinny tumblers are an ideal starting point. These tumblers are lightweight, easy to balance on a cup turner, and forgiving enough for beginners to avoid drips or uneven layers.
Here's why 20-oz skinny tumblers work best:
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They fit standard turners comfortably without overloading the motor
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They feature straight walls that make epoxy application smoother and more predictable
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They have a manageable weight that reduces sagging, pooling, and uneven layers
- They feature ample surface area for decals, vinyl, alcohol inks, and glitter
More experienced epoxy crafters should consider 30-oz skinny tumblers, as these offer more surface area for decals, glitter, or complex patterns. Still, they require more epoxy, longer curing times, and a stronger turner.
While using an epoxy kit for small and large tumblers is certainly possible, these sizes present unique challenges. Smaller cups, such as 12-oz tumblers, require precise epoxy handling due to their smaller surface area. Larger tumblers, on the other hand, can be heavy, difficult to rotate, and prone to curing issues.
Choosing the right size for your skill level can save frustration and ensure a high-quality finish. If you're new to epoxy, start with a 20-oz tumbler and check out our guide "How to Epoxy a Tumbler."
Benefits of Choosing a 40Oz Tumbler
Although a 40oz tumbler is not ideal for those starting out with customization, this size still has notable benefits, both for personal use and resale.
Its large capacity allows tumbler owners to drink more water throughout the day, making it easier to meet hydration goals. While some of these oversized cups may be bulky, high-quality 40-oz tumblers feature excellent shapes and additions that enhance portability. These tumblers provide enough volume for active lifestyles while being easy to carry.
When shopping for a 40-oz tumbler, make sure it has:
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Double-Wall Vacuum Insulation: Helps drinks stay hot or cold for numerous hours, making it practical for maintaining beverage temperature throughout the day.
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Removable Handles: Detachable handles let you hold your drink comfortably, and you can remove them for easy customization or storage.
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High-Quality Lid and Straw: Ensure the lid seals tightly to prevent leaks, and the straw is durable and easy to clean for everyday use.
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Included Straw Topper: Provides a hygienic cover to keep your straw clean and reduce spills while on the go.
- BPA-Free Components: Helps ensure that the tumbler is safe for drinking and free from harmful chemicals that could leach into beverages.
In addition to being excellent drinkware, these larger tumblers offer more creative options for experienced crafters. As we've discussed, 40-oz tumblers aren't as easy to customize with sublimation or epoxy, but they allow for larger, more eye-catching designs that can stand out for resale or special projects.
Remember: 40-oz tumblers do not fit in most sublimation heat presses. To sublimate these oversized items, you'll likely need a sublimation oven. You'll also need to ensure these tumblers feature high-quality polymer coatings designed for sublimation.
Tumbler Oz FAQs
How Many Ounces Are in a YETI Tumbler?
Like The Stainless Depot Company, YETI offers tumblers in various sizes, including 10-oz, 20-oz, 30-oz, 35-oz, and 42-oz options. Oz capacity varies by model and style, so it is always best to check the product listing if you're looking for a specific size.
How Many Ounces Are in a Starbucks Tumbler?
Starbucks tumblers come in 10-oz, 16-oz, and 24-oz capacities. Additionally, some seasonal or specialty tumblers may vary slightly from these standards based on design and material.
Are All 20 and 30-oz Stainless Steel Tumblers Customizable?
No. Not all 20 and 30-oz tumblers are designed for customization. If you personalize drinkware, it's best to buy from a supplier that specializes in customizable blanks, like The Stainless Depot Company. Most retail tumblers are NOT suitable for sublimation, engraving, or epoxy, including tumblers from Starbucks, YETI, Stanley, and other popular brands.
Get High-Quality Stainless Steel Tumblers in the Perfect Size Today
Tumblers come in many sizes, and the one that's right for you will depend on your preferences. If you're looking for the most popular sizes or the best for customization, you'll likely want 20-oz or 30-oz tumblers. Those wanting greater capacity or a larger canvas for customization should choose a 40-oz cup, preferably a tumbler with a handle.
Whether you're looking for a single stainless steel tumbler or tumblers in bulk, you're in the right place. The Stainless Depot Company offers an extensive selection of tumblers in various sizes and styles.
The Stainless Depot Company also features everything you need to get started with customizing drinkware, including sublimation printers and ink, sublimation heat presses, epoxy resin kits, sublimation blanks, engravable tumblers, and more.
With high-quality drinkware and premium customization tools, The Stainless Depot Company makes it easy to create professional custom tumblers.
