The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (2024)

The Basics

Bar Tools

Our top picks are essential bar tools that help make the best drinks possible.

By

Céline Bossart

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (1)

Céline Bossart

Céline Bossart is a freelance journalist and photographer based in New York, specializing in wine, spirits and travel.

Learn about Liquor.com'sEditorial Process

Updated 05/22/23

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more.

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (2)

Ask any bartender, and they’ll tell you that when it comes to making co*cktails professionally, consistency is key across the board. There are myriad resources that the pros have at their disposal, such as garnishing tools to help with presentation, along with the most consistently fresh and high-quality ingredients. But perhaps most important of all of them? It's measurement.

That's where jiggers come into the picture—they are one of the most common things missing from home bars. Sure, bartending at home is a more casual endeavor, but if you want to nail your drink recipes, you’ll want to invest in a good jigger, which will help you know exactly how much rum, vodka, or simple syrup you're pouring.

Pros

  • Weighted feeling in hand

  • Comes in several finishes

  • Available in two sizes

Cons

  • Copper plated option isn't dishwasher-safe

“For a utility at-home jigger, I’ve always preferred the Leopold [design] from co*cktail Kingdom,” says Alex Jump, head bartender of iconic bar Death & Co.’s Denver location. “All of the measurements [are] in one tool, so you don’t have to worry about getting a bunch of tools dirty. Bonus: they look really pretty, and I really like the weighted feeling they have.”

co*cktail Kingdom offers their signature Leopold jiggers in two sizes and a number of different finishes. A 1-ounce/2-ounce jigger is the go-to for many bartenders, so we’d recommend opting for the 30-milliliter/60-milliliter size. The stainless steel is classic, but if you opt for another finish, such as the copper-plated option, just know it's not dishwasher safe.

Material: 18/18 stainless steel with different plating options available | Size: 2.9 x 2.35 x 3.65 inches | Capacity: 1.01 ounces (top), 2.03 ounces (bottom) | Dishwasher-Safe?: Depends on the finish

Best Value

OXO Steel Angled Measuring Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (4)

Pros

  • Versatile

  • Inexpensive

  • Features multiple measurements

Cons

  • Isn't as attractive as others

Jump’s fellow Death & Co. Denver bartender Jon Feuersanger offers another handy option for the at-home bartender: “The measuring devices I use at home that are 100 percent [utilitarian] and easy-to-use are the OXO steel-angled jiggers.” According to him, these workhorse jiggers function as a mini measuring cup and hit all the main measurements in one, from 0.25 ounces to 2 ounces. Plus, the price is hard to beat—even if it doesn't have that iconic look that makes the others feel like more attractive options.

Material: Stainless steel | Size: 2.75 x 2.3 x 2.05 inches | Capacity: 2 ounces | Dishwasher-Safe?: Yes

Best Splurge

Match Pewter Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (5)

Pros

  • Beautiful design

  • Solid construction

  • Other pieces are available to make a matching set

Cons

  • Hand-wash only

  • Expensive

If you find yourself constantly wishing you lived in a Renaissance painting and you also enjoy a great co*cktail, consider investing in this expensive handmade Italian pewter jigger, which is part of a larger (and equally Old World) collection of barware.

The smaller end measures 1 ounce while the larger side measures 1.5 ounces. If you’re looking to build your own set around this beautiful piece, you can choose from a shaker, strainer, mixing glass, and more. Just note that this material is hand-wash only.

Material: Pewter | Size: 2 x 4.2 inches | Capacity: 1 ounce (bottom), 1.5 ounces (top) | Dishwasher-Safe?: No

Related: The Best Bar Sets

Best for Beginners

Barfly Japanese-Style Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (6)

Pros

  • Affordable

  • Dishwasher-safe

  • Pleasant design

Cons

  • A bit lightweight

Barfly’s straightforward 1-ounce/2-ounce Japanese-style jigger combines an aesthetically pleasing design with durability and affordability, which is everything any novice home bartender could ask for.

Choose from various finishes, or buy a few different ones to see what you like best. These jiggers are dishwasher-safe and feature interior measurement markings in addition to a rolled top on both sides, which helps prevent spills and drips. It is, however, a bit lightweight.

Material: 18/18 stainless steel with different plating options available | Size: 1.75 x 0.1 x 4.75 inches | Capacity: 1 ounce (bottom), 2 ounces (top) | Dishwasher-Safe?: Depends on the finish

Related: The Best co*cktail Glasses

Best Japanese

Piña Barware Slim Stainless Steel Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (7)

Pros

  • Exterior markings

  • Comfortable to use

  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Exterior measurements can be tough to read

For lovers of both form and function, the super-slim mid-century-inspired Piña jigger ticks all the boxes. “It’s very accurate because of the super narrow base, and it’s very comfortable to use,” says Washington, D.C. bartender Justin Golash. This jigger helpfully features exterior measurement markers with corresponding lines on the inside walls, so you’ll always have a handle on even the smallest pours. It might, however just be a little tricky to read the external markings sometimes.

Material: Brushed stainless steel | Size: 5.2 x 2.3 x 2.3 inches | Capacity: 1 ounce (top), 2 ounces (bottom) | Dishwasher-Safe?: Yes

Best Ergonomic

True True Trio Multi Unit Measured Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (8)

Pros

  • Incredibly clear external measurements

  • Multi-level

  • Feels good in your hand

Cons

  • A little pricey

“My forever favorite [is the] the multi-level jigger,” says Montreal bartender Kate Boushel. This design, she says, allows you to build directly in the jigger and features all of the important units of measurement (ounces, milliliters, and tablespoons). “It’s sturdy, super comfortable to hold,and even has a 0.25-ounce measure [when flipped],” Boushel adds.

Material: Stainless steel with different plating options available | Size: 3.25 x 2.25 x 6.25 inches | Capacity: 2.5 ounces | Dishwasher-Safe?: Yes

Most Durable

co*cktail Kingdom Japanese-Style Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (9)

Pros

  • Inexpensive

  • Great design

  • Feels balanced in your hand

Cons

  • Hand-wash only

  • Markings on inside only

“I go classic with the Japanese style jigger in 1 ounce/2-ounce capacity,” says Robin Kirk Wolf, a bartender in San Luis Obispo, California. “I love the physical balance in my hand, and the longer profile is great for moving quickly on a busy Saturday night, turning out rounds of co*cktails!”

This classic design by industry favorite brand co*cktail Kingdom is made of stainless steel and features measurement markings on the inside walls. Note that these jiggers are hand-wash only.

Material: Stainless steel | Size: 2.15 x 2.1 x 5.35 inches | Capacity: 1 ounce (top), 2 ounces (bottom) | Dishwasher-Safe?: No

Related: The Best Bar Carts

Best Design

Yukiwa Stainless Steel Seamless Jigger

The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (10)

Pros

  • Beautiful design

  • Easy to hold

Cons

  • Don't have markings

When it comes to barware, New York City bartender Orlando McCray has one go-to: Japanese specialty brand Yukiwa. “[Their] jiggers are really elegant and feel great in your hands,” he shares, though there is one downside to this piece in that there are no markings. “You have to train yourself through repetition—having an accurate idea of how much you’re pouring is a pretty good skill for us all to have, though,” he adds.

Material: Stainless steel | Size: 1.5 x 1.6 x 4 inches | Capacity: 1 ounces (top), 1.75 ounces (bottom) | Dishwasher-Safe?: Unknown

Final Verdict

Jiggers are handy tools for the home bartender, and the co*cktail Kingdom Leopold Jigger wins for best overall thanks to its clean design and availability in multiple finishes. For the best value, look to the OXO Steel Angled Measuring Jigger for its measuring cup-like design and clearly marked measurements at a lower price.

FAQs

Do professional bartenders use jiggers?

They most certainly do! Jiggers are key to making drinks that taste great and have the best proportions of ingredients. There's no substitution for accurate measurements.

Why use a Japanese jigger?

The design of a Japanese jigger makes it very easy to pour from and, therefore, more precise. They have a smaller diameter, and they also offer a few different measurements on the inside rim, which makes them versatile, too.

Is a jigger one or two shots?

A shot can be anywhere between 1.25 ounces, 1.5 ounces, and 2 ounces, although most bartenders in the United States will agree that a shot equals 1.5 ounces. Typically, an official jigger will measure 1.5 ounces on one side and 1 ounce on the other. The larger side is often referred to as a "jigger shot" and the smaller side is often called a "pony shot." A jigger, then, is closer in measurement to one shot rather than two.

Why Trust Liquor?

Longtime wine and spirits writer Céline Bossart has tested countless jiggers over the years—between her picks and a handful of ideas from fellow industry pros, this list is sure to cover all of your co*cktail needs at any experience level.

Read Next: The Best Gifts for Bartenders, According to Bartenders

Continue to 5 of 8 below.

The 9 Best Boston Shakers of 2024
The 6 Best Bar Sets for Elevated co*cktail-Making of 2024
The Best co*cktail Shakers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 8 Best Moscow Mule Mugs of 2024
The 9 Best Bar Tools of 2024
The 12 Best Whiskey Glasses in 2024, According to Experts
The 8 Best Cobbler Shakers
The 11 Best Flasks of 2024
The 8 Best Citrus Peelers of 2024
The 8 Best Whiskey Decanters of 2024
The 8 Best Citrus Juicers of 2024
The 8 Best Wine Aerators of 2024
The 10 Best Ice Buckets of 2024
The 7 Best Electric Wine Openers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 8 Best Red Wine Glasses of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
The 7 Best Margarita Machines of 2024
The 8 Best Jiggers of 2024, According to Pro Bartenders (2024)

FAQs

Do professional bartenders use jiggers? ›

As a result, bartenders and home enthusiasts should always familiarize themselves with their tools. The jigger, though simple in appearance, has played a vital role in the world of mixology. It stands as a symbol of precision, consistency, and the craft of creating the perfect drink.

What are the best jiggers? ›

Our favorite jiggers are the OXO Good Grips Mini Angled Measuring Cup, Piña Barware Bell Jigger, Houdini Double Jigger co*cktail Accessory, and co*cktail Kingdom Japanese-Style Jigger. All three are designed for spillage-free pours, though the OXO is likely the best choice for most at-home bartenders.

What size is a bartender's jigger? ›

How Many Ounces Are in a Jigger? Typically, the larger end of the jigger is 1.5 ounces and the smaller end is 0.75 ounces. In most cases when people refer to a “jigger” or a “jigger shot” they are referring to the standard jigger size of 1.5 ounces. The smaller end of the jigger is known as a pony shot.

What is the difference between a bell jigger and a Japanese jigger? ›

The bell jigger is similar to the Japanese jigger but is heavier and has a larger, vintage-style body. Some say this jigger is nicer to hold and easier to use than the Japanese version. The bell jigger makes a lovely addition to any co*cktail set, especially for an at-home bartender.

Is a jigger better than a free pour? ›

The benefits of using a jigger are hitting standard liquor pours consistently, keeping pour costs down, an getting a hold of your liquor inventory control with a variance formula. The same advantage using a standardized recipe gives a kitchen. But the benefit of not using a jigger, or free pouring, is speed.

Why do bartenders hold jiggers? ›

A bar jigger is a common bartender measuring tool that is essential to help you accurately and consistently measure alcoholic ingredients. They are available in different shapes, sizes and materials and each end can range from 0.5 to 2.5 ounces.

Are all jiggers the same? ›

A quick glance behind any bar will likely show a few jiggers on hand, varying in size and shape. Although they are all used in the same way, the different sizes can be confusing since most co*cktails require roughly the same amount of alcohol.

What are black jiggers? ›

A jigger is a small parasitic flea that burrows into the skin of a warm-blooded host before laying eggs. They generally attack feet or hands. At first, the jigger appears as a small black dot on the skin.

What are the 2 sizes of jiggers? ›

Double Jigger

A double bartender jigger has two sides that measure two different amounts. The most common combinations for jiggers that you'll find are 1 oz & 2 oz and 1.5 oz & . 75 oz.

What is a standard pour in a jigger co*cktail? ›

Standard Pour on a Jigger

A standard jigger is 1.5 ounces on its large side and 3/4 ounces on its small side. So, if you're using the large end of a jigger to make a drink, your pour will be 1.5 ounces. Jiggers are the little hourglass-shaped measuring tools that countless bartenders use.

What does jigger mean in slang? ›

jigger (plural jiggers) (slang, archaic) A prison; a jail cell. quotations ▼

How can I measure 2 oz without a jigger? ›

Don't have a jigger? No problem. If you really want to be precise when mixing a drink, use a measuring spoon—one tablespoon holds half an ounce. For larger volumes (two or more ounces), use a one-cup measuring cup—our favorites also have ounce measures.

Do good bartenders use jiggers? ›

They most certainly do! Jiggers are key to making drinks that taste great and have the best proportions of ingredients.

Which is bigger a shot or a jigger? ›

A jigger is a double shot, hence why it's often referred to as a double jigger, meaning it holds 1.5 US fluid ounces of liquor. These jigger measurements are the standard for most bartenders when making co*cktails and other drinks.

Why is called a jigger? ›

Like many great pieces of co*cktail history, the term jigger was gifted to us by the Royal British Navy. Derived from the name of the smallest mast on a ship, the jiggermast, a jigger was used to refer to a sailor's daily ration of rum and the metal cup it was served in.

What is a jigger used for in bartending? ›

A Jigger is a small tool that is used to measure the proper amount of alcohol that should be added to a co*cktail. Jiggers can be made of metal, plastic, or glass, and come in all kinds of shapes and sizes.

What can you use instead of a jigger in a co*cktail? ›

A chopstick comes in handy to stir co*cktails—no shaker needed (left)—and a measuring cup and/or a set of measuring spoons takes the place of a jigger (right).

What does a jigger look like bartender? ›

Jiggers are the basic hourglass-shaped stainless-steel measuring device you've seen in many a bar. These are cheap and easy to find in most housewares stores, or online. Typically, the larger cup measures out exactly one jigger, or 1 1/2 ounces. The smaller cup is normally one half jigger, or 3/4 ounces.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Patricia Veum II

Last Updated:

Views: 5581

Rating: 4.3 / 5 (44 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Patricia Veum II

Birthday: 1994-12-16

Address: 2064 Little Summit, Goldieton, MS 97651-0862

Phone: +6873952696715

Job: Principal Officer

Hobby: Rafting, Cabaret, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Inline skating, Magic, Graffiti

Introduction: My name is Patricia Veum II, I am a vast, combative, smiling, famous, inexpensive, zealous, sparkling person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.