16 Best Boston Shakers For Ice-Cold Cocktails in 2023: Reviews & Buying Guide
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Boston shakers are one of the essential tools bartenders use to serve various drinks. Its ubiquitous nature has become part of the bar experience, with bartenders slamming the tins together to create a tight seal before shaking the ingredients together.
Types of shakers include Boston, Parisian, and the Cobbler shaker, but most bartenders prefer the Boston shaker because of its capacity, efficiency, and speed. It also makes the drink colder and frothier, making it more enjoyable to drink.
Whether you’re a novice or a professional bartender, this is your sign to buy the best Boston shakers for your bar!
Our Top Picks
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Best Overall: Barfly Shaker Cocktail Tin Set Runner-Up: Cocktail Kingdom Koriko Weighted Shaking Tins Best Professional-Grade: A Bar Above Two-Piece Pro Boston Shaker Set Best Finish: Cresimo Boston Shaker Set Best Grip: Crafthouse by Fortessa Two-Piece Boston Cocktail Shaker Best Heavy: Piña Barware Boston Shaker Tin Set Best Splurge: Sertodo Copper Boston Shaker Set Best Value: Ignite Lifestyle Boston Cocktail Shaker Best Chic: LINALL Boston Shaker Best Anti-Skid: BARsics Boston Cocktail Shaker Best Gift: KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set Best Classic Steel and Glass: Houdini Boston Cocktail Shaker Best Seal: Etens Pro Bar Boston Shaker Set Easiest to Separate: Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Weighted Shaking Tins Best Style: Godinger Cocktail Shaker Best for Themed Bars: SuproBarware Pro Boston Shaker |
1. Best Overall: Barfly Shaker Cocktail Tin Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- 18/8 STAINLESS STEEL: Excellent resistance to corrosion and can withstand busy bars.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Holds up through the extreme heat and chemicals of a dishwasher cycle.
- WEIGHTED BOTTOM: Improves the cup's stability and weight and reduces noise.
- SATIN FINISH: Boasts an attractive smooth texture and doesn’t retain fingerprints.
What We Don’t Like
- The bottom weld is a bit flimsy.
What Buyers Say
“For us, Barfly shakers beat the competition in quality by far, with their excellent design and balanced weight. The cans have heavy bases, so they won't move an inch, and the lack of seams along the straight edges is a plus.
We also appreciate that it doesn't leak when shaking and is relatively easy to release once you get the hang of it. It has a sleek design and is free of crevices, making maintenance a breeze.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Cocktail Shakers
2. Runner-Up: Cocktail Kingdom Koriko Weighted Shaking Tins
Why We Think It’s Great
- PERFECT FITTING: Cups fit snugly enough without getting stuck.
- GREAT CAPACITY: Features 28 oz and 18 oz metal tins which are enough to make two cocktails.
- EASY TO CLEAN: No strict cleaning restrictions as both metal pieces are dishwasher safe.
What We Don’t Like
- Requires a great grip to properly seal
What Our Experts Say
“I highly recommend the Koriko Weighted Shaking Tins for they are easy to use; that’s why they’re a favorite among bartenders. The tight seal ensures no leaks, and they’re easy to snap open so that you don’t get injured,” comments Luke Slater from The Cask Connoisseur.
“They can also consistently create cold and smooth craft cocktails while being comfortable to hold and shake. You can easily fit all your ingredients inside, making two cocktails at once,” he notes.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: India | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Cocktails In The World
3. Best Professional-Grade: A Bar Above Two-Piece Pro Boston Shaker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- PREMIUM QUALITY: Carefully evaluated by experienced bartenders to ensure superior quality.
- 304 STAINLESS STEEL: Constructed from a sturdy, long-lasting material that can withstand corrosion.
- GREAT VERSATILITY: Can be used to make shaken and stirred drinks.
- LEAKPROOF CONSTRUCTION: Designed to seal tightly to avoid leaking accidents.
What We Don’t Like
- Separating the tins is pretty challenging.
What Buyers Say
“Compared to our previous shaker, A Bar Above is a significant upgrade in terms of functionality and maintenance. It’s much simpler to open than the one we usually use, and we appreciate that it lets in more air during shaking, resulting in nicer beverages.
The weight distribution is reasonable, and there were no leaks. Moreover, it has a top-notch seal and is completely smooth around the edges. The beverages do get very cold very quickly as the shaker virtually freezes as soon as you start using it.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Bar Spoons
4. Best Finish: Cresimo Boston Shaker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- MIRROR FINISH: Creates a sophisticated appearance and doesn’t make scratches look obvious.
- RECIPE GUIDE: Comes with an illustrated recipe guide, perfect for first-time bartenders.
- RUST RESISTANT: Made with 18/8 stainless steel that doesn’t easily corrode.
- LOW MAINTENANCE: Ensures no warping, rusting, or discoloration when washed in a dishwasher.
What We Don’t Like
- It could be sturdier.
What Buyers Say
“This shaker is built to last and packs a punch in terms of utility. It can be put through the wringer by being dropped, knocked against hard surfaces, and the like. It's also compact and lightweight, yet can hold a lot of ingredients.
We also like that it’s compatible with a pint glass if you like to see your drinks when shaking. Invest in this cocktail shaker and a good strainer to have better drinks with less leakage.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Hawthorne Strainers
5. Best Grip: Crafthouse by Fortessa Two-Piece Boston Cocktail Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- ARCHITECTURAL FOOT DESIGN: Provides a spot for your fingers to be wrapped around for a firm hold.
- RIBBED SURFACE: Improves comfortability and gives a more secure grip to ensure zero spillage.
- DISHWASHER SAFE: Can be quickly cleaned between each cocktail with a dishwasher.
What We Don’t Like
- The base is flimsy and collects liquid.
What Our Editors Say
“This is one of the best cocktail shakers that stand out since it shows measure lines of two, four, and six ounces, convenient for measuring if you don’t have a jigger. The foot is also helpful since it provides a notch around to clasp one's fingers.
Both the metal tins are suitable for the dishwasher or the sink. And don't worry; the gorgeous shine will remain even after being washed numerous times. We think this is a great addition to any home bar because of its modest beauty.”
Material: Stainless steel | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Jiggers
6. Best Heavy: Piña Barware Boston Shaker Tin Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- EASY STORAGE: Both pieces are easily mounted and separated.
- ATTRACTIVE FINISH: Sleek mirror-polished exterior and brushed interior.
- HEAVY STAINLESS STEEL: Made from stainless steel that’s 40% heavier compared to competitors, paired with 360-degree welding.
- WELL-BALANCED: Sports a custom shape that provides excellent balance for easy handling.
What We Don’t Like
- They can be tough to separate because of their thick walls.
What Buyers Say
“We love that this shaker has a satisfying heft that feels excellent in the hand, and a good shake is achieved with relatively little effort. The tin's balanced weight distribution also makes it less prone to topple over when set down.
We keep the smaller piece angled, then give a good whack on the bottom to easily seal the joint. My dishwasher has put this through numerous cycles without causing any damage; thus, we figured it was durable enough.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
7. Best Splurge: Sertodo Copper Boston Shaker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- PURE HEAVY-GAUGE COPPER: Has several natural qualities that are beneficial to health.
- HANDCRAFTED: Meticulously made with attention to quality and detail by artisans.
- HAMMERED LOOK: Ensures the best possible level of stability in slippery conditions.
- GREAT SEAL: Built and tested to ensure a watertight seal and maximum efficiency.
What We Don’t Like
- It can lose its shine over time.
What Our Editors Say
“Since this set is smaller than a standard Boston shaker, it’s suitable for those with smaller hands. Design-wise, it is unique and eye-catching with its striking copper sheen and hammered pattern. You can also easily stir ingredients in it with a bar spoon.
Furthermore, we appreciate that they fit together properly, avoiding leakage. They feel well-made and durable, and if treated the correct way, they will surely last for a long time! However, cleaning this shaker will need extra effort as copper oxidize fast.”
Material: Copper | Capacity: 16 & 25 oz. | Manufactured: USA | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Copper Mugs for Moscow Mule
8. Best Value: Ignite Lifestyle Boston Cocktail Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- 18/8 STAINLESS STEEL: Durable and highly resistant to rust.
- WEIGHTED BOTTOMS: Combination of weighted and unweighted shaker tins to create balance.
- SMOOTH EDGES: Feels nice on the hand and protects your fingertips from nicks and cuts.
- FREE RECIPES: Comes with a recipe booklet that features various cocktails.
What We Don’t Like
- The edges chip easily.
What Our Editors Say
“This Boston shaker appears to be well-made, and it boasts polished stainless steel and no sharp corners. Their airtight seal worked perfectly, and we were impressed by how easily they opened.
You won't have to struggle to pry them loose in order to pour the drink! The recipe guide was also a great addition, featuring a variety of simple and classic recipes.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
9. Best Chic: LINALL Boston Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- SLEEK BLACK COLOR: Can pass as a bar decor and will be a conversation starter.
- 304 STAINLESS STEEL: Sturdy, durable, and rust-resistant for longevity.
- VERSATILE: Can be used for shaken drinks and stirred drinks alike; also fits standard Hawthorne strainer and Julep strainers.
- ACCURATE TEMPERATURE: Ensures that drinks are always served cold due to the stainless steel.
What We Don’t Like
- The color chips quickly.
What Buyers Say
“The dark stainless steel finish is fantastic, and it lives up to expectations in terms of aesthetic quality. They're really effective, thanks to their weighted base, and they will feel very solid as you use them.
Also, there were no leaking issues which we were really glad about, and they also easily separated with a simple pat.”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Julep Strainers
10. Best Anti-Skid: BARsics Boston Cocktail Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- RUBBER SLEEVE: Protects hands from freezing and provides a firm grip for extra safety.
- 18/8 STAINLESS STEEL AND GLASS: Both materials are of high quality, and the glass doubles as a mixing glass.
- LEAKPROOF: The steel and glass shaker fit together snuggly, guaranteeing no leaks.
What We Don’t Like
- The rubber sleeve is hard to remove and put on when cleaning.
What Our Editors Say
“This best cocktail shaker stands out because of the rubber sleeve it comes with. Sure enough, it looks distinct, but it also has a purpose to serve, which is to protect and make the bartender feel comfortable when shaking drinks.
When cleaning, we recommend taking the sleeve off first because it can melt in the dishwasher. Overall, the set feels thick and solid, and it doesn’t create leaks.”
Material: Stainless steel and glass | Capacity: 16 & 26 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: The Best Cocktail Mixing Glasses
11. Best Gift: KITESSENSU Cocktail Shaker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- RUST-RESISTANT: Made from 0.8 mm thick stainless steel for increased resistance to corrosion.
- BRUSHED FINISH INTERIOR: Creates a classy appearance and successfully conceals fingerprints.
- COCKTAIL RECIPES: Offers a variety of drink recipes suitable for the cocktail novice.
- MONEY-BACK GUARANTEE: Provides the benefit of getting your money back in cases of dissatisfaction.
What We Don’t Like
- It has sharp edges.
What Buyers Say
“This one has a decent seal and is simple to remove. Because of its ergonomic design and silky-smooth finish, we found it really comfortable. However, they originally had rough edges, but we simply smoothed them out with some little sanding.
Furthermore, they have a flawless fit, and they're completely compatible with any dishwasher! After receiving it, we immediately washed it in the dishwasher to remove any dirt, and the "shiny" tone remained the same!”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
Related: Difference Between Boston Shaker and Cocktail Shaker
12. Best Classic Steel and Glass: Houdini Boston Cocktail Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- STAINLESS STEEL AND GLASS: Both materials create excellent balance, and the glass allows visibility.
- FAST CLEAN-UP: Suitable for a top-rack dishwasher cycle.
- PROFESSIONAL-GRADE: Both shaker pieces are of the highest quality, making them perfect for frequent use.
What We Don’t Like
- It can spill.
What Our Editors Say
“We like how this stainless steel and glass pairing allows us to see the inside while shaking. The glass is clear and thick enough, and it fits the metal tin snugly.
When pushed tightly against the tin, the glass edges do not chip easily, demonstrating its durability. They're also the right size without being cumbersome, and the lack of rough edges makes them easy on the hands.”
Material: Stainless steel and glass | Capacity: 24 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Top rack
Related: How To Stir A Cocktail?
13. Best Seal: Etens Pro Bar Boston Shaker Set
Why We Think It’s Great
- SEALS WELL: Ensures safety during shaking and prevents spilling.
- HEAVY BOTTOMS: For enhanced balance and comfortability.
- COMPACT STORAGE: Can be easily nested for quick organization.
- SAFE TO USE: Made from food-safe, durable, and sturdy stainless steel.
What We Don’t Like
- It is prone to rust.
What Buyers Say
“This shaker has been in use for a few months, and it's still in great shape. They do seal tightly at first, but with practice and the right angle, they become much simpler to remove. Also, they never leaked during use.
We appreciate that it can be cleaned in the dishwasher, so we don't have to worry about it breaking after a few cocktails. That's a product that has our unequivocal endorsement; we'd buy it again!”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Manufactured: China | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
14. Easiest to Separate: Cocktail Kingdom Leopold Weighted Shaking Tins
Why We Think It’s Great
- PROTRUDING FOOT: Provides extra support for the shaker to avoid getting easily knocked over.
- EASY TO CLEAN: Can be easily cleaned using a dishwasher without any damage after.
- EASY SEPARATION: Made to fit snugly yet come apart easily after a shake.
What We Don’t Like
- The bigger tin can be hard to store due to its height.
What Our Experts Say
“My favorite shaker is the Leopold by Cocktail Kingdom because they’re well-designed and super easy to use. Because they’re weighted, I can easily shake my drinks without feeling like I'm going to lose control or drop the tin,” shares Marissa Johnson, a mixologist and the founder of Inflatable Blast.
“The shape of the tin is also lovely, as it fits perfectly in my hand and is an excellent size for mixing drinks. I appreciate the quality and design of this set, and it's become my go-to Boston cocktail shaker,” she adds.
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. | Dishwasher Safe: Yes
15. Best Style: Godinger Cocktail Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- STYLISH GLASS: An eyecatcher that features timeless elegance and modern aesthetics.
- LEAD-FREE CRYSTAL: Safe to use, sturdy, and boasts an attractive brilliance.
- POLISHED FINISH: The stainless steel looks sleek and has better resistance to corrosion.
What We Don’t Like
- It is susceptible to leaking.
What Our Editors Say
“This Boston shaker's glass is the piece de resistance, thanks to its exquisite craftsmanship. We're delighted that it's constructed from lead-free crystal glass, which makes it stronger, more durable, and more brilliant.
The stainless steel was equally strong and of excellent caliber. It doesn’t feel particularly light, but it doesn’t feel flimsy, either. The stainless steel and glass complement each other perfectly; they don't stick together, and they are simple to separate.”
Material: Stainless steel and glass | Capacity: 12 & 26 oz | Dishwasher Safe: No
16. Best for Themed Bars: SuproBarware Pro Boston Shaker
Why We Think It’s Great
- COPPER FINISH: Adds uniqueness, making it a conversation starter.
- HIGH-QUALITY FEEL: Crafted from superior 304 stainless steel that is thickened to 0.8 mm.
- GREAT SIZE: Suitable for use with any Hawthorne or Julep strainer.
- AIRTIGHT: Professional bartenders have examined and approved the seal performance.
What We Don’t Like
- The tins are hard to separate after being left for some time.
What Buyers Say
“We got this for our bar display due to its lovely copper appearance. We didn't expect much from its quality, so we were pleasantly surprised when it felt robust and stable. It's thick enough to be strong yet not too heavy, and the weighted and unweighted tins were an excellent match.
Moreover, they didn't have leaks, and we separated the tins more quickly than some of our old shakers. So far, we haven't noticed any chipping of the finish, so that's great news!”
Material: Stainless steel | Capacity: 18 & 28 oz. Dishwasher Safe: No
Final Verdict
Having a fantastic Boston shaker makes a difference in the drinks you make. And the better the drinks, the happier the drinkers.
For this list, we declare Barfly Shaker Cocktail Tin Set as our top pick because it has the perfect blend of functionality and looks and is appropriate for beginners and professionals.
Which Boston shaker caught your eye? We’d love to know your opinion in the comments below!
Best Boston Shakers - What To Look For
Although Boston cocktail shakers look alike, there can be details that make one better than the other, depending on your needs. So, give these factors a thought before buying a Boston cocktail shaker.
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Material
Most professional bartenders recommend stainless steel Boston shakers because they’re leak-free and secure even after a long shake.
Ross Hunt, owner and Chief Cocktail Nerd at unMuddled Bartending shares this sentiment and says he prefers dishwasher-safe stainless steel ones over coated shakers.
“While they might look nice, I typically avoid the coated or colored shakers since they're typically hand-wash only. I think the functionality and ease of maintenance of stainless steel outweigh the looks of a coated shaker that takes more time and effort to clean,” he adds.
Steel and glass shakers are also common, but they provide challenges when it comes to mixing drinks with ice, such as glass chipping. The glass is also heavier, which can easily wear out the user.
On the other hand, shakers crafted from pure copper have the advantage of being attractive and long-lasting and are believed to have antimicrobial properties. Its drawback is that they're high maintenance; they'd suffice in a chill home bar, but they're probably not the best in a busy commercial bar.
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Size/Capacity
“A 28-ounce shaker is suitable for most drinks, but if you plan on making larger drinks for a huge crowd, consider a larger size,” says Monica Russell, a former mixologist and the founder of Acquired Coffee.
Most Boston cocktail shakers will have a bottom tin that holds 28 ounces and a top tin that holds 18 ounces, which can create two to four cocktails at once.
You should be fine with a 24-ounce shaker if you only need one for one person. Moreover, shakers with a capacity of at least 26 ounces are the best bet if you want to make drinks for more than one person but fewer than a large group.
Also, make sure that the opening is wide enough to properly fit a separate strainer since Boston cocktail shakers don’t have a built-in strainer like a Cobbler shaker.
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Seal
“When choosing Boston shakers, you must make sure that the fitting is tight when closed, and do not get a cheap one because you have to make hundreds of drinks in a week. Reliability and durability play a role in the seal,” notes Hernan Trujillo, head bartender at J.Bespoke.
One of the most crucial characteristics to look for in a high-quality shaker is how effectively it seals. Unlike cobbler shakers that close effortlessly, there is some challenge to Boston cocktail shakers.
You wouldn't want your shaker to crack open while you're shaking and ruin your cocktail by squandering the drink all over your hands.
The material of the tins is a major factor that determines the quality of the seal and the tins' sizes.
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Design/ Shape
Boston shakers are, in and of themselves, rather straightforward bar tools. Even though there is little room for flashy designs on the standard design of two shakers, even the smallest design tweaks can significantly impact how well the shakers perform.
No matter what the shaker looks like, you should first consider the shape, as this can affect the grip. Make sure the body will fit your hand snuggly; if you have smaller hands, you can opt for shakers with a relatively slender body.
Some shakers also have a "foot" at the bottom, which doesn't only make the shaker look distinctive but also adds extra security.
In terms of looks, Andrew Olson, Co-Founder/Head Mixologist at Hook Hand Rum, says, “ Color or finish is a personal decision, but I really like black or straight stainless.”
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Price
The prices of Boston shakers vary from $15 to $98. A price of $15 might sound okay if you're on a tight budget. However, if you have extra money to spend, fancy ones are worth it.
You can have confidence that any of the items on our list, affordable or expensive, will serve their intended purpose.
Best Boston Shakers FAQ
1. What’s the difference between a dry shake and a wet shake?
Only by vigorously shaking can you achieve the desired aeration in your alcoholic drink. It can enhance the smooth, uniform texture of a drink and also boost its sweetness while decreasing its harshness. There are two types of shaking - dry and wet.
The term dry shake refers to a method of making cocktails in which ice is omitted from the shaking process. When egg white or aquafaba is used in a cocktail, it is customary to give the drink a dry shake.
Wet shaking, wherein ingredients are shaken with ice, then usually follows dry shaking. A wet shake will have the dual effect of cooling the drink and diluting it.
2. What is the benefit of shaking cocktails?
Mixing, chilling, and diluting a cocktail can all be accomplished by shaking. It fully blends the ingredients for a more cohesive flavor profile and prevents taste layers from forming because of multiple ingredients. Shaking also releases air bubbles that give the drink a light, frothy texture.
Any beverage made with juice, dairy, or eggs should be shaken before serving. Foamy versions of these components are typically preferred because of how they appear and feel in a glass.
3. What to do when a cocktail shaker is stuck?
A shaker can become stuck for various reasons, but the cold temperature is usually the primary culprit. Using ice in a shaker means the metal cocktail shaker will get very cold, which makes both the tins expand and become caught together.
This can be helpful during the shaking as it will not let any leaks escape; however, the challenge comes when it's time to pour the drink. Read this article to learn how to solve a stuck cocktail shaker of any type.
4. What are the most popular shaken cocktails?
Most of the time, cocktails with mixers, like fruit juice (especially citrus), cream, or egg white, will be shaken. The following are some of the most classic examples:
5. Should I use a weighted cocktail shaker?
Some shakers consist of two weighted tins, while others feature just one. Both shaker cups in a weighted shaker are fused with metal weights; however, in a weighted-unweighted shaker, just one of the cups is weighted, which is usually the bigger one.
Ross Hunt says, “It's always a good idea to purchase a weighted shaker, as opposed to an unweighted one. The weighted base allows you to handle the shaker easily and helps ensure it doesn't get knocked over.”
On the other hand, some people find the ideal balance when using one weighted and one unweighted tin. The unweighted cup ensures a tight seal, while the weighted cup adds stiffness that makes it simple to open after shaking.
But at the end of the day, the choice depends on which type of shaker you’re most comfortable with.
Why Trust Advanced Mixology?
We believe that our readers should have access to unbiased, well-informed reviews when deciding which products to buy, and we work hard to provide that type of content. Our editorial team is experienced and passionate about mixology and bar equipment. In addition, we often consult with industry professionals when gathering information, which gives us an insider's perspective on the products we're reviewing.
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