Kegerator Tap Handles: Materials and Fit
Short answer: A tap handle is the lever you pull to pour draft beer. Listings rarely specify the handle material or thread size, so you often choose a handle separately. Common materials include wood, metal, and plastic, each with a different look and feel. The attachment thread is usually standard, but you should confirm compatibility with your faucet. Ergonomics matter for comfort and control. For most home bars, a standard metal or wood handle with a common thread size works well. See our single tap guide for examples.
What a tap handle is
A tap handle is the part of a kegerator you grip to open the faucet and pour draft beer. It attaches to the faucet stem on the tap tower or directly on the dispense unit. In listings, the handle is often mentioned only as part of the tower or faucet description, not as a separate feature.
When you read a kegerator listing, look for words like "tap handle," "faucet," or "tower" in the bullet list. The handle material and thread size are usually not stated by the seller. That means you may need to plan to buy a replacement handle separately if you want a specific style. For a first kegerator, a handle that comes with the unit is the simplest choice, as explained in our first kegerator checklist.
Handle materials: wood, metal, and plastic
Tap handles come in three common materials: wood, metal, and plastic. Wood handles have a classic, warm look and are often used in home bars. Metal handles, usually stainless steel or chrome, match the finish of the tower and faucet. Plastic handles are lightweight and often the least expensive option.
The material affects the weight and feel of the handle. A heavier metal handle may feel more solid, while a lighter plastic handle is easier to grip for some users. The listing may say "stainless steel" or "chrome" for the tower, but the handle material is often not specified. If the material matters to you, check the product images or contact the seller. For a dual tap kegerator, matching handles can create a uniform look.
Wood handles are popular for their aesthetic appeal, but they may require more care to keep clean. Metal handles are durable and easy to wipe down, making them a practical choice for busy settings. Plastic handles are budget-friendly and come in many colors, but they may not feel as premium. Consider the overall style of your bar and how much use the handle will get.
Attachment threads and fit
The tap handle attaches to the faucet via a threaded hole. The thread size is usually standard, but not always. Common thread sizes include 3/8-16 and 5/16-18, though you should verify what your faucet requires. Listings rarely state the thread size, so you may need to ask the seller or check the faucet specifications.
If you plan to replace the handle, confirm the thread size before buying. A handle with the wrong thread will not fit securely. Some handles come with an adapter to fit different thread sizes, but this is not guaranteed. When in doubt, choose a handle that matches the faucet brand or model. For a triple tap tower, you may need to buy three handles, so compatibility is even more important.
The thread size is a small detail that can cause frustration if overlooked. Many kegerator faucets use a standard thread, but there are exceptions. If you are buying a kegerator and plan to upgrade the handle later, check the faucet type in the listing. Some listings include the faucet model, which you can use to look up the thread size.
Ergonomics: comfort and control
Ergonomics refers to how comfortable and easy the handle is to use. A good handle should fit your hand and allow a smooth, controlled pull. The shape and length of the handle affect leverage. A longer handle gives more leverage, which can make pouring easier, but it may also feel bulky in a small space.
Consider how often you will use the handle. For a home bar with occasional use, a standard handle is fine. For a busy venue, a handle with a comfortable grip and smooth action is more important. Listings rarely describe ergonomics, so you may need to rely on the handle's shape and material to judge comfort. A commercial kegerator may come with a more robust handle designed for frequent use.
The height of the tower also affects ergonomics. A taller tower may require a longer handle to reach comfortably, while a shorter tower works with a compact handle. Think about the height of the people who will use the kegerator. If you have a low counter, a shorter handle might be easier to pull. If the tower is high, a longer handle provides better leverage.
What to look for in a listing
When comparing kegerators, check if the listing mentions the tap handle at all. Some listings include a handle in the box contents, while others sell it separately. The phrase "tap kit" or "dispense kit" may include a handle, but read the bullet list to confirm.
If the handle is not mentioned, assume it is not included. You can buy a replacement handle separately, but you need to know the thread size. The listing for the faucet may state the thread size, or you can ask the seller. For a single tap kegerator, a standard handle that comes with the unit is the simplest choice.
Look for the box contents section in the listing. It often lists what is included, such as the tower, faucet, and handle. If the handle is listed separately, it may be an accessory you need to purchase. Some listings show the handle in the product images but do not mention it in the text. In that case, contact the seller to confirm.
What to pick for your situation
Your choice of tap handle depends on your setup and preferences. For a single tap kegerator, a simple handle is enough. For a dual or triple tap unit, you may want matching handles for a uniform look. The material and style should match the tower and faucet finish.
If you are buying a kegerator for a home bar, a wood or metal handle adds a traditional touch. For a commercial or high-use setting, a durable metal handle is a practical choice. Always confirm the thread size before buying a replacement handle. For a low-cost option, a plastic handle that comes with the unit may be sufficient.
Think about the long-term use. If you plan to keep the kegerator for many years, investing in a quality metal handle might be worth it. If you are just starting out, you can always upgrade later. The handle is one of the few parts of a kegerator that is easy to change, so you have flexibility.
What to pick for your situation
| If you | Pick | Buying guide |
|---|---|---|
| You want a classic home bar look | A wood tap handle | Best Single Tap Kegerators in 2026: 6 Picks by Specs |
| You want a durable, modern finish | A stainless steel or chrome handle | Best Dual Tap Kegerators in 2026: 13 Picks by Specs |
| You have a multi-tap tower | Matching handles for all faucets | Best Triple Tap Kegerators in 2026: 5 Picks by Specs |
| You are outfitting a small venue | A heavy-duty metal handle | Best Commercial Kegerators in 2026: 13 Picks by Specs |
| You are on a tight budget | A plastic handle that comes with the unit | Best Kegerators Under $600 in 2026: 7 Picks |
Questions
Do all kegerators come with a tap handle?
No. Some listings include a handle, while others sell it separately. Read the bullet list and box contents to see if a handle is included.
What thread size do tap handles use?
Common sizes are 3/8-16 and 5/16-18, but you should confirm the size for your faucet. Listings rarely state the thread size.
Can I replace the tap handle on my kegerator?
Yes, in most cases. You need to know the thread size of the faucet and choose a compatible handle. Some handles come with adapters.
Does the handle material affect performance?
The material affects weight and feel, but not the pouring mechanism. Choose a material that feels comfortable and matches your setup.
What should I check before buying a replacement handle?
Check the thread size, the handle length, and the material. Also verify that the handle fits the faucet model you have.
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