TidyJapan

Category: Travel Mugs & Food Jars

Zojirushi, Tiger and Thermos travel mugs, food jars and lunch jars.

  • KINTO Trail Bottle 600ml vs 900ml: Which Size to Buy?

    KINTO Trail Bottle 600ml vs 900ml: Which Size to Buy?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Choose the KINTO Trail Bottle 600 ml (20 oz, $23.60 on KINTO USA) if you want a slim, light everyday bottle: 75 mm across, 225 mm tall with the lid, about 120 g empty. Choose the 900 ml (30 oz, $28.80) if you want 50% more water per fill and the better price per ounce (about $0.95 vs $1.16, our math). It is 84 mm across, 265 mm tall, and about 160 g empty. Both use the same half-turn lid with a built-in handle and the same plastic, which is 50% certified recycled material. Both are top-rack dishwasher safe with an 80°C / 176°F heat limit. Neither is insulated.

    How we compare: every spec and price below comes from KINTO’s official pages (KINTO USA 600 ml, KINTO USA 900 ml, KINTO Japan 600 ml, KINTO Japan 900 ml, and the KINTO Japan Trail Bottle series page) and the size-specific user manuals (600 ml PDF, 900 ml PDF). We don’t run hands-on tests. Where we summarize Japanese third-party reviews, we say so. Last updated: November 2026.

    Check price: KINTO Trail Bottle 600 ml (20 oz)
    Check price: KINTO Trail Bottle 900 ml (30 oz)

    Quick Comparison Table

    SpecTrail Bottle 600 mlTrail Bottle 900 ml
    Product numbers (by color)20031 Clear, 20032 Brown, 20033 Green, 20034 Navy20041 Clear, 20042 Brown, 20043 Green, 20044 Navy
    Capacity600 ml (KINTO USA: 20 oz; about 20.3 fl oz by our conversion)900 ml (KINTO USA: 30 oz; about 30.4 fl oz by our conversion)
    KINTO USA price$23.60$28.80
    Price per fluid ounce (our math)about $1.16about $0.95
    Diameter75 mm (about 2.95 in)84 mm (about 3.31 in)
    Height with lid225 mm (about 8.86 in)265 mm (about 10.43 in)
    Height without lid188 mm (about 7.40 in)228 mm (about 8.98 in)
    Weight (empty)About 120 g (about 4.2 oz)About 160 g (about 5.6 oz)
    Bottle and lidPCT resin (manual: Tritan Renew copolyester), 50% certified recycled content, heat limit 80°C / 176°FSame
    GasketSilicone rubber, heat limit 80°C / 176°F, built into the lidSame
    CareDishwasher safe (top rack, no pressure on the bottle); no microwave, freezer, boiling water, or citrus drinksSame
    Insulated?No (single-wall plastic)No
    BPA free / made inYes / China (designed by KINTO Japan)Same
    Japan price (tax included)¥1,980¥2,420

    U.S. prices, color names, product numbers, and care wording from the KINTO USA product pages 20031 and 20041, checked November 9, 2026 (Asia/Tokyo), when all four colors of both sizes showed as available. Millimeter sizes, gram weights, materials, and yen prices from KINTO Japan’s official store the same day, where all four colors of both sizes were also available. The “Tritan Renew” name and the roughly 2 cm fill line come from the user manuals linked on the product pages. Fluid-ounce figures, inch and ounce conversions, and price per ounce are our own math (1 fl oz = 29.5735 ml).

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 600 ml vs 900 ml, so the larger bottle holds 1.5 times as much.
    • Width: 75 mm vs 84 mm. Unlike some bottle lines that only change height, the 900 ml is both wider and taller.
    • Height: 225 mm vs 265 mm with the lid on, a 40 mm (about 1.6 in) difference.
    • Weight: about 120 g vs 160 g empty. Full, add roughly 600 g or 900 g of water.
    • Price: $23.60 vs $28.80 on KINTO USA; about $1.16 vs $0.95 per fluid ounce.
    • Same on both: four colors (Clear, Brown, Green, Navy), a lid with a built-in handle that opens with a half turn, an integrated clear silicone gasket, a wide mouth sized for filling at a water dispenser, top-rack dishwasher care, no insulation.

    1. Capacity: who should buy which size?

    KINTO Japan’s series page describes the Trail Bottle as a plastic bottle for outdoor life that moves forward together with nature (our translation). Both sizes share the same design: a smooth bottle body, a mouth KINTO calls wide enough to fill from a water dispenser, and a lid with a carry handle that opens with a half turn. The manuals say not to overfill. Their fill diagram shows the liquid stopping about 2 cm (about 0.8 in) below the top of the mouth, so plan on a little less than the full rated volume in practice.

    Choose the 600 ml (20031–20034) if you:

    • Want a bottle you refill during the day at the office, school, or a gym fountain
    • Carry it in a bag side pocket or want a better chance of fitting a cup holder (75 mm across)
    • Want the lightest option (about 120 g empty) and the lower upfront price ($23.60)

    Choose the 900 ml (20041–20044) if you:

    • Want fewer refills on a hike, a long drive, or a long workday at your desk
    • Track a daily water goal and like round numbers per fill
    • Want the better price per ounce ($28.80, about $0.95/oz)

    2. Size, weight, and fit

    KINTO lists the 600 ml at φ75 × H225 mm and about 120 g, and the 900 ml at φ84 × H265 mm and about 160 g. Without the lid, the bottles are 188 mm and 228 mm tall. Because the 900 ml is 9 mm wider as well as 40 mm taller, it is more likely to be too big for a narrow cup holder or a small backpack side pocket. If either matters, measure first.

    3. Materials, lid, and care

    The bottle and lid are PCT resin. KINTO’s English manual calls it copolyester, and its parts diagram names it Tritan Renew. KINTO says it contains 50% certified recycled material, and its series page says the plastic is made with 50% recovered plastic waste. KINTO describes the plastic as glass-like in clarity, lightweight, resistant to breakage, and durable. The gasket is silicone rubber, built into the lid as one piece for easier cleaning, and KINTO says the clear silicone blends in for a cleaner look. Both the plastic and the gasket are rated to 80°C / 176°F, and both pages say BPA free and made in China.

    KINTO’s care notes are the same for both sizes. The bottle is dishwasher safe, but place it on the top rack where nothing presses on it, because pressure can deform it. Do not use abrasive cleansers or scrubbers. Do not microwave it, put it in the freezer, add dry ice, or pour in boiling water. Do not use it for drinks containing citrus, because terpenes from the peel can change the plastic. When closing, make sure the lid sits level and is fully tight. Then turn the bottle upside down or on its side to check for leaks, and carry it upright in a bag. Do not shake it, leave it in a hot car, or leave drinks in it for long periods.

    4. Trail Bottle vs Active Bottle (same 600 ml price)

    KINTO USA prices the Trail Bottle 600 ml and the Active Bottle 600 ml the same, at $23.60, and the Trail Bottle 900 ml at the same $28.80 as the Active Bottle 950 ml. The difference is the lid and the weight. The Trail Bottle drinks from the wide mouth after a half-turn of a lid with a molded handle. The Active Bottle has a sipping spout and a soft, flexible TPE handle.

    Spec (official)Trail 600 mlActive 600 mlTrail 900 mlActive 950 ml
    Diameter75 mm85 mm84 mm85 mm
    Height with lid225 mm180 mm265 mm250 mm
    Weight (empty)about 120 gabout 190 gabout 160 gabout 225 g
    LidHalf-turn lid, molded handleSpout, soft TPE handleHalf-turn lid, molded handleSpout, soft TPE handle
    KINTO USA price$23.60$23.60$28.80$28.80

    Active Bottle specs from KINTO’s official pages as summarized in our Active Bottle comparison (checked November 7, 2026); prices rechecked on KINTO USA November 9, 2026.

    Pick the Trail Bottle if you want the lighter, slimmer bottle and like drinking from an open mouth. Pick the Active Bottle if you want a spout for sipping on the move.

    5. Price and availability

    On KINTO USA (November 9, 2026, Asia/Tokyo): 600 ml $23.60 and 900 ml $28.80, with Clear, Brown, Green, and Navy available in both sizes. The Trail Bottle is a newer KINTO line (both official stores mark it NEW), so Amazon may have fewer listings than for KINTO’s older Water Bottle line. Prices can differ on Amazon, so use the Check price buttons and confirm “Trail Bottle” and the size on the listing.

    A View from Japan

    In Japan the bottle is sold as the トレイルボトル (Trail Bottle). KINTO Japan’s official store lists ¥1,980 for the 600 ml and ¥2,420 for the 900 ml, tax included, with the same four colors and product numbers as the U.S. store. The Japanese store also sells a replacement lid that fits both sizes (トレイルボトル 600ml/900ml 蓋) for ¥880 and marks both bottles as personalizable.

    ItemKINTO Japan official store
    Japanese nameトレイルボトル 600ml / 900ml
    Price (tax included)¥1,980 / ¥2,420
    Colorsクリア (Clear), ブラウン (Brown), グリーン (Green), ネイビー (Navy)
    Replacement lidLid for 600 ml / 900 ml, ¥880
    Series page pointsSeamless design; a mouth sized for easy drinking and filling from a water dispenser; lid with handle and an integrated clear gasket; 50% recycled plastic waste; BPA free

    Japanese reviewers have not written much about the Trail Bottle yet. A Japanese blog that compares five KINTO plastic bottles notes that it is new and has few reviews so far. The comments it found praise the glass-like clarity and simple look, the lid that opens quickly with a half turn, and the easy-to-carry handle, and some buyers like the recycled material. The same blog reminds readers that KINTO’s plastic bottles are not insulated and should not be used with boiling water or in a microwave. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    FAQ

    Should I buy the KINTO Trail Bottle 600ml or 900ml?

    Buy the 600 ml (20 oz, $23.60 on KINTO USA when we checked) if you want the slimmer, shorter bottle for a bag, a desk, or short walks: it is 75 mm (about 3 in) across, 225 mm (about 8.9 in) tall with the lid, and about 120 g empty. Buy the 900 ml (30 oz, $28.80) if you want 50% more water per fill for $5.20 more and a lower price per ounce (about $0.95 vs $1.16, our math). It is 84 mm (about 3.3 in) across, 265 mm (about 10.4 in) tall, and about 160 g empty. Everything else, from the lid design to the materials and care rules, is the same.

    Does the KINTO Trail Bottle keep water cold or hot?

    No. It is a single-wall plastic bottle (PCT resin, which KINTO’s manual identifies as Tritan Renew copolyester), not a vacuum-insulated bottle, so it does not keep drinks cold or hot. KINTO rates the bottle, lid, and silicone gasket to 80°C / 176°F and says not to pour in boiling water. If you need ice water to stay cold for hours, look at an insulated stainless bottle instead.

    Is the KINTO Trail Bottle dishwasher safe?

    Yes. KINTO’s official pages and manuals say dishwasher safe, with a placement note: put it on the top rack, where nothing presses on it, because pressure can deform it. Do not use abrasive cleansers or scrubbers, and do not put it in the microwave or freezer.

    How is the Trail Bottle different from the KINTO Active Bottle?

    The Trail Bottle (600 / 900 ml) has a screw lid with a handle molded into it and opens with a half turn. You drink straight from the wide mouth. The Active Bottle (600 / 950 ml) has a sipping spout and a soft TPE carry handle. On KINTO’s official specs the Trail Bottle is lighter (about 120 g / 160 g vs about 190 g / 225 g empty). The 600 ml Trail Bottle is also narrower than either Active Bottle size (75 mm vs 85 mm). KINTO USA lists both 600 ml bottles at $23.60, and the 900 ml Trail Bottle at the same $28.80 as the 950 ml Active Bottle.

    Can I put sparkling water, juice, or tea in it?

    KINTO’s product text and manual call it a bottle for beverages but warn against citrus drinks (terpenes in the peel can change the plastic) and boiling water. They also say not to shake the bottle or add dry ice, and not to leave drinks in it for long periods. The manual does not mention carbonated drinks, so we would not treat sparkling water as officially approved. KINTO USA’s store data includes a ‘carbonated-drink compatible’ tag, but the product text does not say so.

    Will the Trail Bottle fit a car cup holder?

    KINTO lists a 75 mm (about 2.95 in) diameter for the 600 ml and 84 mm (about 3.31 in) for the 900 ml. Many cup holders are narrower at the bottom than at the top, so measure the inside diameter of yours before buying. The 600 ml is the more likely fit of the two.

    Verdict

    For most people who refill during the day, the 600 ml is the easier everyday size: slimmer (75 mm), lighter (about 120 g), and $23.60 on KINTO USA. If you want to fill once for a hike, a drive, or a long desk session, the 900 ml gives you 50% more water for $5.20 more. Either way, this is a light, non-insulated plastic bottle for room-temperature or cool drinks, not a stainless vacuum bottle.

    Check current listings

    Amazon results for “KINTO Trail Bottle” can mix in KINTO’s Trail Tumbler (a different tumbler line), the Active Bottle, the Water Bottle, replacement lids, and bottles from other brands. Confirm Trail Bottle and 600 ml or 900 ml on the listing before you buy.

    Check price: KINTO Trail Bottle 600 ml (20 oz)
    Check price: KINTO Trail Bottle 900 ml (30 oz)

    Sources

    Specs and prices checked November 9, 2026 (Asia/Tokyo). We found no U.S. SaferProducts.gov recall for KINTO or for “Trail Bottle” when we checked. Prices and availability change, so verify the current listing before buying.

  • KINTO Active Bottle 600ml vs 950ml: Which Size Should You Buy?

    KINTO Active Bottle 600ml vs 950ml: Which Size Should You Buy?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Choose the KINTO Active Bottle 600 ml (20 oz) if you want the shorter, lighter bottle for bags and commutes at $23.60 on KINTO USA when we checked. Choose the 950 ml (32 oz) if you want fewer refills and an easy way to track a daily water goal at $28.80, which works out cheaper per ounce. Both share the same 85 mm diameter, spout, soft handle, recycled copolyester body, top-rack dishwasher care, and 80°C / 176°F heat limit. Neither is insulated, and KINTO Japan says no hot, carbonated, or citrus drinks.

    How we compare: every spec and price below comes from KINTO’s official pages (KINTO USA 600 ml, KINTO USA 950 ml, KINTO Japan 600 ml, KINTO Japan 950 ml). We don’t run hands-on tests. Where we summarize Japanese third-party reviews, we say so. Last updated: November 2026.

    Check price: KINTO Active Bottle 600 ml / 20 oz
    Check price: KINTO Active Bottle 950 ml / 32 oz

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Active Bottle 600 ml Active Bottle 950 ml
    Capacity 600 ml / 20 oz 950 ml / 32 oz
    Product numbers (by color) 20181 clear, 20182 magenta, 20183 navy, 20184 smoke 20191 clear, 20192 magenta, 20193 navy, 20194 smoke
    KINTO USA price $23.60 $28.80
    Price per fluid ounce (our math) about $1.18 about $0.90
    Diameter 85 mm (KINTO USA: 3.4 in) 85 mm (KINTO USA: 3.4 in)
    Height with cap 180 mm (KINTO USA: 7.2 in) 250 mm (KINTO USA: 10.0 in)
    Height without cap 140 mm (5.6 in) 210 mm (8.4 in)
    Empty weight About 190 g (KINTO USA: approx. 0.4 lb) About 225 g (KINTO USA: approx. 0.5 lb)
    Bottle & lid material Copolyester (KINTO Japan: PCT resin), 50%+ certified recycled content Same
    Handle / spout / seal TPE / polypropylene / silicone Same
    Heat limit 80°C / 176°F (seal 100°C / 212°F) Same
    Insulated? No (single-wall plastic) No
    Dishwasher Yes, top rack Yes, top rack
    Microwave No No
    Made in China China
    Japan price (tax incl.) ¥1,980 ¥2,420

    U.S. prices, inch/ounce figures, materials, and care notes from KINTO USA product pages 20181 and 20191, checked November 7, 2026, when all four colors of both sizes were listed as available. Millimeter sizes, gram weights, “PCT resin” wording, and Japan prices from KINTO Japan’s official store the same day (all colors available). Price per ounce and mm-to-inch conversions are our own math. KINTO USA rounds the 950 ml height to 10.0 in; 250 mm is about 9.8 in.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 600 ml (20 oz) vs 950 ml (32 oz), about 58% more in the larger bottle.
    • Height: 180 mm vs 250 mm with the cap on. Same 85 mm diameter, so the 950 ml is simply taller.
    • Weight empty: about 190 g vs 225 g. Full, the 950 ml carries roughly 350 g more water.
    • Price: $23.60 vs $28.80 on KINTO USA; about $1.18 vs $0.90 per fluid ounce.
    • Same on both: spout lid, soft TPE handle, four colors (clear, magenta, navy, smoke), 50%+ recycled copolyester, top-rack dishwasher safe, no microwave, not insulated.

    1. Capacity: how many refills a day?

    If you aim for about 2 liters of water across a day, the math is simple: the 600 ml bottle needs a little over three fills, and the 950 ml needs about two. That is the main reason people pick the larger size for desk work, gym sessions, or hikes where refills are not convenient. The 600 ml makes more sense when you pass water fountains or a kitchen often and care more about a bottle that slides into a tote or a backpack side pocket.

    Choose the 600 ml (20 oz) if you:

    • Carry it in a bag every day and want the shorter 180 mm height
    • Refill easily at work, school, or the gym
    • Want the lower upfront price ($23.60 when we checked)

    Choose the 950 ml (32 oz) if you:

    • Want to track water intake in two fills a day
    • Keep the bottle mostly at a desk, in a gym bag, or in the car
    • Want the better price per ounce ($28.80, about $0.90/oz)

    2. Size, weight, and carrying

    Both bottles are 85 mm (about 3.4 in) across, so the difference is all height: 180 mm for the 600 ml and 250 mm for the 950 ml with the cap on (140 mm and 210 mm without it). Empty, they weigh about 190 g and 225 g. When full, add the weight of the water itself: roughly 600 g versus 950 g. KINTO says the soft, flexible handle is designed for carrying outdoors, and it stays the same on both sizes.

    Because the diameter is 85 mm on both, cup-holder fit is the same question for either size. Measure your holder before buying.

    3. Materials, heat limits, and care

    The bottle and lid are copolyester with over 50% certified recycled content; KINTO Japan calls the resin PCT. The handle is TPE (thermoplastic elastomer), the spout is polypropylene, and the seal is silicone. KINTO rates the bottle, lid, handle, and spout to 80°C / 176°F and the silicone seal to 100°C / 212°F. Both pages say BPA free, dishwasher safe (upper rack, without pressure on the bottle), not for microwave use, and made in China.

    This is a single-wall bottle, not a vacuum-insulated one. For hot coffee on the go, see our insulated mug comparisons below instead.

    4. Price and availability

    On KINTO USA (November 7, 2026): 600 ml $23.60 and 950 ml $28.80, with clear, magenta, navy, and smoke all listed as available. KINTO USA’s site banner advertised free shipping on orders of $100 or more. Amazon prices can differ, so use the Check price buttons and confirm the capacity on the listing.

    A View from Japan

    KINTO is a tableware company based in Japan, and its Japanese product pages carry a much longer list of care notes than the U.S. pages. These points come from KINTO Japan’s official store:

    Item KINTO Japan official store
    Japanese name アクティブボトル 600ml / 950ml
    Price (tax included) ¥1,980 / ¥2,420
    Material wording PCT樹脂 (PCT resin), 50%+ certified recycled content
    Do not add Boiling water, carbonated drinks, dry ice, drinks containing citrus
    Do not Freeze it, microwave it, leave it in a hot car, drink while walking
    Carrying advice Keep it upright in a bag to prevent leaks; check for leaks upside down after closing

    The citrus warning is the one most U.S. buyers miss: KINTO Japan says terpenes in citrus peel can change the resin, so it asks owners not to use the bottle for drinks that contain citrus. KINTO Japan also says not to put carbonated drinks in the bottle because the container can expand and break. In Japan, the 600 ml costs ¥1,980 and the 950 ml ¥2,420 including tax, so the step up in size costs relatively little there as well.

    Japanese reviewers often pick the 950 ml for daily hydration. A Business Insider Japan writer who chose the 950 ml to reach about 2 liters a day describes drinking one bottle in the morning and one in the afternoon, says the clear body makes the remaining amount easy to see, and likes the one-handed spout and wide opening for cleaning, but notes the spout is fairly stiff to remove and reattach. Buyers on a Yahoo! Shopping store page for the 950 ml mention that it is light, that seeing how much they drank helps them drink more, and one says its height fits in their dishwasher without leaks. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    FAQ

    Should I buy the KINTO Active Bottle 600ml or 950ml?

    Buy the 600 ml (20 oz, $23.60 on KINTO USA when we checked) if you want a bottle that fits a bag side pocket or car cup area more easily and you can refill during the day. Buy the 950 ml (32 oz, $28.80) if you want to fill up once or twice and track a daily water goal at your desk or at the gym. Both have the same 85 mm diameter, spout, handle, materials, and care rules; the 950 ml is 70 mm taller with the cap on and about 35 g heavier empty.

    Is the KINTO Active Bottle insulated?

    No. It is a single-wall copolyester (PCT resin) bottle, so it does not keep drinks hot or cold. KINTO rates the bottle, lid, handle, and spout to 80°C / 176°F, and KINTO Japan’s care notes say not to pour in boiling water. If you need cold drinks to stay cold for hours, look at a vacuum-insulated stainless bottle instead.

    Can I put sparkling water or juice in the Active Bottle?

    KINTO Japan’s official care notes say not to add carbonated drinks or dry ice (the container can expand and break), and not to use it for drinks containing citrus, because terpenes in citrus peel can degrade the resin. Those warnings appear on KINTO’s Japanese product pages; the KINTO USA page lists a shorter set of care notes. We would follow the stricter Japanese list.

    Is the KINTO Active Bottle dishwasher safe?

    Yes. Both KINTO USA and KINTO Japan list it as dishwasher safe, with a request to place it in the upper rack so it is not pressed or weighted, which can warp it. Do not microwave it, and avoid abrasive cleansers and steel wool.

    Will the 950ml fit a car cup holder?

    KINTO lists the same 85 mm (about 3.4 in) diameter for both sizes. That is wider than many narrow cup holders, so check your holder’s inside diameter before buying either size. The 950 ml is also 250 mm (about 10 in) tall with the cap on, versus 180 mm for the 600 ml.

    How is the Active Bottle different from the KINTO Water Bottle?

    The Active Bottle (600 / 950 ml) has a flip-up spout for one-handed sipping and a soft TPE carry handle. The KINTO Water Bottle line (300 / 500 / 950 ml) is a separate product with a different lid. See our KINTO Water Bottle 300ml vs 500ml guide for that line.

    Verdict

    For most people who carry a bottle in a bag all day, the 600 ml is the easier everyday size. If your goal is to drink more water at a desk or the gym, the 950 ml is the better value and needs fewer refills. Either way, use it for water or tea at room temperature or cold, and skip hot, fizzy, and citrus drinks as KINTO Japan advises.

    Check current listings

    Amazon results for “KINTO Active Bottle” can mix in the KINTO Water Bottle, Trail Bottle, replacement spouts and silicone rings, and other brands. Confirm “Active Bottle” and 600ml or 950ml (product numbers 20181–20184 or 20191–20194) on the listing.

    Check price: KINTO Active Bottle 600 ml / 20 oz
    Check price: KINTO Active Bottle 950 ml / 32 oz

    Sources

    Specs and prices checked November 7, 2026 (Asia/Tokyo). We found no U.S. SaferProducts.gov recall for KINTO products when we checked. Prices and availability change, so verify the current listing before buying.

  • Tiger MKB-T361 vs MKB-T481: 12 oz or 16 oz Carbonated Bottle?

    Tiger MKB-T361 vs MKB-T481: 12 oz or 16 oz Carbonated Bottle?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the Tiger MKB-T361 (12 oz, $38.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store) if you want the smallest, lightest bottle for a can-size drink: it is 7.83 in tall and weighs about 0.19 kg (0.4 lb) empty. Get the MKB-T481 (16 oz, $40.99) if you want a third more drink and slightly better ratings (154°F vs 145°F after 6 hours hot, 47°F vs 49°F cold) in a bottle that is 1.74 in taller and about 30 g heavier. Both carry hot, cold and carbonated drinks, and they share the same BubbleLogic screw-top lid, 1.7 in mouth and dishwasher-safe parts.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from Tiger’s official pages (starting with Tiger USA’s MKB-T page and Tiger Japan’s MKB-T page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Tiger MKB-T361 (12 oz)
    Check price: Tiger MKB-T481 (16 oz)

    Tiger Corporation is an Osaka-based maker of rice cookers, kettles and vacuum bottles. The MKB-T, which Tiger calls the “Vacuum Insulated Carbonated Bottle,” is a slim stainless mug-style bottle with a handled screw-top lid. Many insulated bottles warn against carbonated drinks. This one is built for them: Tiger says you can carry soda, sparkling water, beer or a highball, and also hot drinks in winter. It comes in three sizes, the MKB-T361 (12 oz), MKB-T481 (16 oz) and MKB-T601 (20 oz). All three are 2.6 in wide and share the same lid design, so choosing between the two smaller ones comes down to how much you drink, bag height and a few degrees of insulation.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Tiger MKB-T361 Tiger MKB-T481
    Capacity 0.36 L / 12 oz 0.48 L / 16 oz
    Height with lid 7.83 in (19.9 cm) 9.57 in (24.3 cm)
    Body height (no lid) 5.87 in (14.9 cm) 7.56 in (19.2 cm)
    Width x depth 2.60 x 2.60 in (6.6 x 6.6 cm) Same
    Empty weight Approx. 0.19 kg (0.4 lb) Approx. 0.22 kg (0.5 lb)
    Mouth opening 1.7 in (4.3 cm) Same
    Heat retention, 1 hour 185°F (85°C) or more 186°F (86°C) or more
    Heat retention, 6 hours 145°F (63°C) or more 154°F (68°C) or more
    Cold retention, 6 hours 49°F (9°C) or less 47°F (8°C) or less
    Drinks Hot, cold and carbonated Same
    Lid Screw-top BubbleLogic stopper with slanted handle Same design
    Dishwasher Lid, body and gasket Same
    Colors (U.S. store) Pearl White, Pearl Black, Clear Copper Pearl White, Pearl Black, Clear Copper, Clear Green, Clear Red
    Made in Viet Nam Viet Nam
    Tiger U.S. store price $38.99 $40.99
    Japan store price (tax incl.) ¥4,620 ¥4,840

    Specs from Tiger’s U.S. and Japanese MKB-T pages (tiger-corporation.com); U.S. prices from Tiger’s U.S. online store (us-store.tiger-corporation.com) and yen prices from Tiger’s Japanese online store, checked October 30, 2026. Tiger’s ratings use 203°F (95°C) hot water or 39°F (4°C) cold water, with the bottle filled, upright, in a 68°F (20°C) room. On Tiger’s U.S. store, all colors listed for both sizes were in stock.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 12 oz (0.36 L) vs 16 oz (0.48 L), a third more in the MKB-T481.
    • Height: 7.83 in vs 9.57 in with the lid (19.9 vs 24.3 cm). The width is the same, 2.60 in (6.6 cm).
    • Weight: about 0.19 kg vs 0.22 kg empty, a 30 g (about 1 oz) difference.
    • Insulation: after 6 hours, 145°F vs 154°F hot and 49°F vs 47°F cold. The bigger bottle holds temperature a little better.
    • Colors: three for the MKB-T361, five for the MKB-T481 (adds Clear Green and Clear Red).
    • Price: $38.99 vs $40.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store, $2 more for the larger size.
    • Same on both: hot, cold and carbonated use, BubbleLogic stopper with a gas-release mechanism and safety valve, Super Clean Plus interior, 1.7 in mouth, slanted handle, dishwasher-safe parts, made in Viet Nam.

    1. Capacity and Everyday Use

    The MKB-T361 holds 0.36 L, about 12 oz, roughly one standard U.S. can. The MKB-T481 holds 0.48 L, about 16 oz, close to a pint. Tiger measures “actual capacity” with the stopper in place. Tiger doesn’t assign a size to a use, but the numbers suggest a simple split:

    • MKB-T361: one can of sparkling water or soda, a short coffee, a small bag, or a drink you’ll finish within an hour or two.
    • MKB-T481: a commute, a game or an afternoon out, or a pint-size drink you’ll sip over several hours.

    Size matters more with carbonated drinks than with water. Tiger notes on its vacuum insulated products page that a drink “may lose carbonation easily” depending on use, such as when the contents are low in volume or hot. Each time you open the lid, the gas-release mechanism lets some CO2 out. So a bottle you can fill and finish in a few openings may keep the fizz better than a bigger one that sits half empty. Japanese reviewers make the same point (see below).

    2. Heat and Cold Retention

    Both bottles use Tiger’s stainless steel double-wall vacuum construction, and Tiger says they keep drinks at a good drinking temperature for about 6 hours or more. The published ratings differ slightly by size:

    • Hot, after 1 hour: 185°F (85°C) or more vs 186°F (86°C) or more.
    • Hot, after 6 hours: 145°F (63°C) or more vs 154°F (68°C) or more.
    • Cold, after 6 hours: 49°F (9°C) or less vs 47°F (8°C) or less.

    The bigger bottle holds a little more heat and cold because it holds more liquid, and the gap is clearest for hot drinks after 6 hours (9°F). For carbonated drinks, the cold rating matters most, since cold drinks hold CO2 better, and there is only 2°F between the sizes. Tiger publishes no rating for how long the fizz lasts.

    Hot-drink support is what sets the MKB-T apart: Tiger Japan’s page says these bottles “can now be used for hot drinks in addition to cold and carbonated drinks.” Tiger’s other carbonated line, the larger MTA-T (0.5 L to 1.5 L), is a separate bottle with a different screw lid.

    3. The BubbleLogic Lid

    The lid is what makes this a carbonated bottle. Tiger calls the stopper “BubbleLogic,” and both sizes have the same design:

    • Carbon dioxide release mechanism: when the lid is closed, gas stays sealed in. When you open it, the gas is let out first, so the drink doesn’t spray or splash, and Tiger says the lid opens with light force.
    • Safety valve: if the pressure inside rises to an abnormally high level, such as when the bottle heats up in a car in midsummer, the valve releases gas on its own so the lid doesn’t fly off and the drink doesn’t erupt.
    • Slanted handle: the handle on the lid is angled to fit the fingers and keep a full bottle steady when you carry it.

    The lid screws on (Tiger Japan calls it a screw top), so it is not a one-push flip lid. Tiger doesn’t say on its product pages whether the bottle is leak-proof on its side. The mouth (caliber) is 1.7 in (4.3 cm) on both sizes.

    4. Size, Weight and Carrying

    Both bottles are 2.60 in (6.6 cm) wide, so the difference is all height: 7.83 in vs 9.57 in with the lid, or 5.87 in vs 7.56 in for the body alone. Tiger describes the MKB-T as a “slim mug-type bottle” that is light and fits in a bag.

    Empty, they weigh about 0.19 kg and 0.22 kg. Water weighs about 1 g per ml, so by our estimate a full MKB-T361 weighs about 550 g (19 oz) and a full MKB-T481 about 700 g (25 oz). If your bag has a short side pocket, the 12 oz is the safer fit; Tiger doesn’t publish cup-holder fit, so compare the 2.6 in width with your holder.

    5. Cleaning and Care

    Tiger says the lid, main body and gasket are all safe for a dishwasher or dish dryer. The inside has Tiger’s Super Clean Plus finish, which Tiger says:

    • Smooths the inner surface, so carbonation escapes less easily than on an untreated surface
    • Makes stains and odors less likely to stick
    • Resists rust, so salty sports drinks are OK (Tiger asks you to rinse with water right after use)

    Tiger doesn’t publish a parts count, but the stopper comes apart for washing. Japanese product-review site my-best counted five parts that need cleaning on the MKB-T481.

    6. Price and Where to Buy

    At Tiger’s U.S. online store, the MKB-T361 is $38.99 and the MKB-T481 is $40.99. On October 30, 2026, the 12 oz was in stock in Pearl White, Pearl Black and Clear Copper, and the 16 oz in Pearl White, Pearl Black, Clear Copper, Clear Green and Clear Red. That works out to about $3.25 per ounce for the 12 oz and $2.56 per ounce for the 16 oz. For $2 more, the MKB-T481 is the better value per ounce if you’ll use the extra room.

    The third size: MKB-T601

    Model Capacity Height with lid Empty weight Heat, 6 h Cold, 6 h U.S. store price
    MKB-T361 12 oz / 0.36 L 7.83 in 0.19 kg 145°F+ 49°F or less $38.99
    MKB-T481 16 oz / 0.48 L 9.57 in 0.22 kg 154°F+ 47°F or less $40.99
    MKB-T601 20 oz / 0.6 L 11.22 in 0.24 kg 159°F+ 45°F or less $43.99

    Specs from Tiger USA’s MKB-T page; prices from Tiger’s U.S. online store, checked October 30, 2026. The MKB-T601 was listed in Clear Copper, Clear Green, Pearl Black and Clear Red on the U.S. store (all in stock); Pearl White was not listed there for the 20 oz.

    The MKB-T601 (20 oz) is the pick if you want the most drink and the best ratings, but at 11.22 in tall it is a tall bottle for a bag. A Japanese reviewer who first planned to buy the 0.6 L chose the 0.48 L after seeing the 28.5 cm height in person. Check the MKB-T601 on Amazon. For a plain insulated bottle (not for carbonated drinks) with a one-touch lid, see our Zojirushi SD-KA60H vs SD-KA75H guide.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Tiger MKB-T361 (12 oz) if you:

    • Want the shortest, lightest option: 7.83 in tall, about 0.19 kg empty
    • Usually carry one can of sparkling water or soda
    • Finish your drink in a short time, so the fizz doesn’t fade in a half-empty bottle
    • Carry a small bag

    Choose the Tiger MKB-T481 (16 oz) if you:

    • Want a pint-size drink or fewer refills
    • Carry hot drinks for most of a day (154°F vs 145°F after 6 hours)
    • Want more color choices (Clear Green and Clear Red are 16 oz and 20 oz only)
    • Want the better price per ounce for $2 more

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, the MKB-T is sold as the 真空断熱炭酸ボトル (“vacuum insulated carbonated bottle”), with the tagline “hot, cold, and even carbonated is OK!” Tiger Japan’s page suggests beer and highballs in summer and hot drinks in winter, and the specs are the same as the U.S. page. Tiger’s Japanese online store sells the 0.36 L for ¥4,620, the 0.48 L for ¥4,840 and the 0.6 L for ¥5,280, tax included.

    Japan also has a 100th anniversary version, the MKB-T036 / T048 / T060, with the same specs in calmer Stone Black, Lake Blue and Eaglet White colors and higher suggested retail prices. Tiger Japan says its earlier carbonated bottle line, the MTA-T, won nine awards in Japan, including from Nikkei Trendy and DIME.

    Item Japan (Tiger official)
    Japanese name 真空断熱炭酸ボトル (“vacuum insulated carbonated bottle”), MKB-T361 / T481 / T601
    Tagline ホットもコールドも、炭酸だってOK！ (“Hot, cold, and even carbonated is OK!”)
    Lid type (Japanese page) 炭酸対応スクリュートップ (screw top for carbonated drinks)
    Tiger Japan online store price (tax incl.) 0.36 L ¥4,620; 0.48 L ¥4,840; 0.6 L ¥5,280
    Japan-only 100th anniversary version MKB-T036 / T048 / T060: same specs, Stone Black, Lake Blue and Eaglet White; suggested retail ¥8,250 / ¥8,800 / ¥9,350 (tax incl.)
    Uses Tiger suggests Cold drinks, beer and highballs in summer, hot drinks in winter (follow local alcohol laws)
    Spare parts Tiger Japan’s product page links to a separate store for 消耗品 (consumable parts)

    Japanese names, prices and details from Tiger Japan’s MKB-T pages and its Japanese online store (tiger-corporation.com), checked October 30, 2026. Prices include Japanese consumption tax.

    Japanese reviewers often say the bottle opens with a strong “pssht,” like a fresh soda bottle, and that sparkling water still has fizz after several hours, though it fades the more you open it and the emptier the bottle gets. They praise the cold retention, the light weight and the fact that it doesn’t sweat in a bag, and many use it to carry beer to festivals or sports games. On the downside, several say the screw lid is less handy than a one-touch lid, that there are many parts to wash and the small gasket is hard to remove, and that a little liquid can come out when opening a carbonated drink. One reviewer found the bottle tall for its capacity because of the handle, and said a 500 ml beer can left about 50 ml over in the 0.48 L size. Japanese review site my-best measured about 66°C after 6 hours hot and about 11°C after 6 hours cold for the MKB-T481, starting from slightly different water temperatures than Tiger’s test. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Tiger MKB-T361 vs MKB-T481: Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I get the Tiger MKB-T361 or MKB-T481?

    Get the MKB-T361 (12 oz, $38.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store) if you want the shortest, lightest bottle: 7.83 in tall and about 0.19 kg empty, and you’ll finish your drink in an hour or two. Get the MKB-T481 (16 oz, $40.99) if you want a third more drink and slightly better ratings: 154°F vs 145°F after 6 hours hot, and 47°F vs 49°F after 6 hours cold. It is 1.74 in taller and about 30 g heavier. The lid, width, mouth and features are the same.

    Can the Tiger MKB-T really carry soda, sparkling water and beer?

    Yes. Tiger says the MKB-T is made for hot, cold and carbonated drinks, and it names beer and highballs as examples. Its BubbleLogic stopper lets the gas out first when you open it, to keep the drink from spraying, and a safety valve releases gas if the pressure gets abnormally high, for example in a hot car. Tiger asks you to follow your local laws when carrying alcohol.

    Can I put hot coffee or tea in it?

    Yes. Tiger rates the MKB-T for hot drinks as well as cold and carbonated ones. After 6 hours, Tiger rates the MKB-T361 at 145°F (63°C) or more and the MKB-T481 at 154°F (68°C) or more, starting from 203°F (95°C) water. Tiger notes that a carbonated drink loses fizz more easily when it is hot or when the bottle is low.

    Is the Tiger MKB-T dishwasher safe?

    Yes. Tiger says the lid, main body and gasket are all safe for a dishwasher or dish dryer.

    Can I put sports drinks in it?

    Yes. Tiger says the Super Clean Plus interior is rust-resistant, so salty sports drinks are OK. Tiger asks you to rinse the bottle with water right after use.

    Will a 12 oz or 16 oz can fit?

    Tiger doesn’t say. On paper, a 12 fl oz can (355 ml) is just under the MKB-T361’s 360 ml capacity, and a 16 fl oz can (473 ml) is just under the MKB-T481’s 480 ml, but foam takes up room when you pour. Tiger measures capacity with the stopper in place. One Japanese reviewer noted that a 500 ml Japanese beer can left about 50 ml over in the 480 ml bottle.

    Is the MKB-T036 the same as the MKB-T361?

    They have the same published specs. The MKB-T036 / T048 / T060 is a Japan-market 100th anniversary version in Stone Black, Lake Blue and Eaglet White. The MKB-T361 / T481 / T601 is the version Tiger sells in the U.S.

    Is there a bigger size?

    Yes, the MKB-T601 (20 oz, 0.6 L, $43.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store). It is 11.22 in tall with the lid, weighs about 0.24 kg and has the best ratings of the three: 159°F or more after 6 hours hot and 45°F or less after 6 hours cold.

    Check current listings

    Amazon search results for “Tiger carbonated bottle” often mix the MKB-T with Tiger’s larger MTA-T carbonated bottles, regular Tiger travel mugs and bottles (MMJ, MMZ, MCT and others), the Japan-only MKB-T036 / T048 / T060, and spare lids or gaskets. Check that the listing says MKB-T361 or MKB-T481 (for example MKB-T361DB or MKB-T481GB) before you buy.

    Check price: Tiger MKB-T361 (12 oz)
    Check price: Tiger MKB-T481 (16 oz)

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. We found no U.S. CPSC recalls for Tiger vacuum bottles when we checked. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • KINTO Water Bottle 300ml vs 500ml: 10 oz or 17 oz?

    KINTO Water Bottle 300ml vs 500ml: 10 oz or 17 oz?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the KINTO Water Bottle 300ml (10 oz, $14.60 at KINTO USA) if you want a light, pocket-size bottle for a small bag, a desk or short trips: it is 6.2 in tall and weighs about 60 g (2.1 oz) empty. Get the 500ml (17 oz, $17.40) if you want fewer refills: it holds two-thirds more water but is only 1.8 in taller and about 15 g heavier. Both use the same one-twist lid and silicone ring, the same recycled copolyester and the same five colors. Neither is insulated, and neither is for hot drinks.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from KINTO’s official pages and manuals (starting with KINTO USA’s Water Bottle page and KINTO Japan’s Water Bottle page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: KINTO Water Bottle 300ml (10 oz)
    Check price: KINTO Water Bottle 500ml (17 oz)

    KINTO is a Japanese housewares brand from Shiga Prefecture, best known for its tea and coffee ware and its tumblers. The WATER BOTTLE is its simple, clear plastic bottle: a round body, a lid that opens with one full turn, and a small handle on top. KINTO USA describes it as “lightweight and compact,” and the current version is made with over 50% certified recycled content. It comes in 300ml, 500ml and 950ml. The 300ml and 500ml share the lid and silicone ring, so the choice between them comes down to how much you drink between refills and how tall a bottle your bag can take.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec KINTO Water Bottle 300ml KINTO Water Bottle 500ml
    Capacity 300 ml / 10 oz 500 ml / 17 oz
    Size with lid φ2.6 x H6.2 in (φ65 x H155 mm) φ2.8 x H8.0 in (φ70 x H200 mm)
    Height without lid 5.1 in (128 mm) 6.9 in (172 mm)
    Empty weight Approx. 0.1 lb (approx. 60 g / 2.1 oz) Approx. 0.2 lb (approx. 75 g / 2.6 oz)
    Lid One-twist screw lid with carry handle Same lid (shared part)
    Silicone ring Removable; same part as 500ml Removable; same part as 300ml
    Material Copolyester bottle and lid, over 50% certified recycled content; silicone seal Same
    Heat limit Bottle and lid 176°F (80°C); seal 212°F (100°C) Same
    Insulated? No (plastic bottle, no temperature rating) No
    Dishwasher Yes, upper basket Same
    Colors Clear, amber, smoke, blue, green Same
    Item numbers 20121–20125 20131–20135
    Made in China China
    KINTO USA price $14.60 $17.40
    Japan price (tax incl.) ¥1,320 ¥1,540

    Specs and U.S. prices from KINTO USA (kinto-usa.com); millimeter sizes, gram weights and yen prices from KINTO Japan (kinto.co.jp), checked October 29, 2026. Ounce conversions of the gram weights are ours. On KINTO USA, all five colors of the 300ml were in stock; the 500ml was in stock in amber, smoke, blue and green, with clear sold out.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 300 ml (10 oz) vs 500 ml (17 oz), about 67% more in the 500ml.
    • Height: 6.2 in vs 8.0 in with the lid (155 vs 200 mm). The 500ml is also slightly wider, 2.8 in vs 2.6 in (70 vs 65 mm).
    • Weight: about 60 g vs 75 g empty, a 15 g (about half an ounce) difference.
    • Price: $14.60 vs $17.40 at KINTO USA, $2.80 more for the larger size.
    • Same on both: one-twist lid with handle (the same part), removable silicone ring, copolyester with over 50% recycled content, 176°F (80°C) limit, dishwasher safe, BPA free, five colors, made in China.

    1. Capacity and Everyday Use

    The 300ml holds about 10 oz, a bit more than a standard 8 oz cup. The 500ml holds about 17 oz, close to a typical single-serve bottle of water. KINTO doesn’t assign either size to a specific use, but the numbers point to a simple split:

    • 300ml: for short outings, a small purse or tote, a bedside table, or anyone who refills often at a desk, office or water fountain.
    • 500ml: for a commute, a gym session or an afternoon out when you won’t pass a refill point for a while.

    Because neither bottle is insulated, size doesn’t change how long a drink stays cold. KINTO publishes no temperature-retention figures for the Water Bottle. If you want ice water that stays cold for hours, an insulated bottle like the one in our Zojirushi SD-KA60H vs SD-KA75H guide is the better fit.

    2. Size, Weight and Carrying

    This is where the two differ most. With the lid on, the 300ml is φ2.6 x H6.2 in (φ65 x H155 mm) and the 500ml is φ2.8 x H8.0 in (φ70 x H200 mm). Without the lid, the bodies are 5.1 in (128 mm) and 6.9 in (172 mm) tall. KINTO Japan lists the empty weights as about 60 g and 75 g; KINTO USA rounds them to about 0.1 lb and 0.2 lb.

    Once filled, the gap grows. Water weighs about 1 g per ml, so by our estimate a full 300ml bottle weighs about 360 g (12.7 oz) and a full 500ml about 575 g (20.3 oz). The light empty weight is the main reason to pick this bottle over a stainless one: KINTO’s stainless Travel Tumbler (covered in our KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml vs 500ml comparison) is insulated but weighs about 245 g (350ml) or 310 g (500ml) empty, per KINTO.

    Both sizes have the same handle on the lid, which KINTO says fits the hand for carrying. KINTO doesn’t publish cup-holder fit, so compare your holder with the 2.6 in and 2.8 in diameters. KINTO USA also sells a separate BOTTLE STRAP ($15.00, adjustable 28–56 in), which it says is only suitable for KINTO plastic bottles and should not be worn around the neck.

    3. The Lid and What You Can Put In

    Both sizes use the same lid. KINTO says it opens with a single twist, and the English manual describes the opening as large enough to add drinks easily and comfortable to drink from. A removable silicone ring seals the lid. KINTO doesn’t publish the inner opening diameter; the lid itself is φ46 x H36 mm (about 1.8 x 1.4 in).

    KINTO’s rules apply to both sizes:

    • Temperature: the bottle and lid are rated to 176°F (80°C). KINTO Japan says not to pour in boiling water, and not to microwave it or put it near a flame.
    • Carbonated drinks: KINTO Japan’s FAQ lists only certain tumblers (To Go Tumbler, Trail Tumbler, Water Tumbler) as OK for carbonated drinks. The Water Bottle isn’t on that list. Dry ice is not allowed.
    • Citrus: KINTO Japan says not to use drinks that contain citrus, because terpene from the peel can damage the plastic.
    • Freezer: not allowed; KINTO Japan says the resin may degrade or crack.
    • Filling and carrying: don’t overfill, because liquid can overflow when you close the lid. Don’t shake it, swing it around or drop it, and don’t leave drinks in it for a long time.
    • Heat: don’t leave it in a hot car.

    4. Cleaning and Care

    Both sizes come apart into the same three pieces: bottle, lid and silicone ring. KINTO says the silicone parts are easy to remove, and the inside bottom is rounded so residue doesn’t collect. From KINTO USA’s care notes:

    • Dishwasher: safe; put it in the upper basket so force and weight don’t distort it.
    • Don’t: use abrasive cleansers or steel wool.
    • After use: wash right away, dry well and keep it dry when you aren’t using it.

    KINTO Japan adds that faint lines or polishing marks on the bottle come from the manufacturing process and are normal. The 300ml is shorter, so a bottle brush reaches the bottom more easily, but KINTO doesn’t say either size is easier to clean.

    5. Practical Costs, Price and Where to Buy

    At KINTO USA, the 300ml is $14.60 and the 500ml is $17.40. On October 29, 2026, all five colors of the 300ml were in stock, and the 500ml was in stock in amber, smoke, blue and green (clear was sold out). That works out to about $1.43 per ounce for the 300ml and $1.02 per ounce for the 500ml, using KINTO USA’s 10.2 oz and 17.0 oz figures. KINTO USA offers free shipping on orders of $100 or more.

    The wear parts are shared and cheap: the 300ml / 500ml lid is $7.00 in all five colors, and the 300/500ml silicone ring set of 2 is $3.80. So if a ring wears out or a lid gets lost, you don’t need to replace the whole bottle.

    Other KINTO Water Bottle sizes

    Model Capacity Size with lid Empty weight KINTO USA price Note
    WATER BOTTLE 300ml 300 ml / 10 oz φ2.6 x H6.2 in Approx. 60 g $14.60 This comparison
    WATER BOTTLE 500ml 500 ml / 17 oz φ2.8 x H8.0 in Approx. 75 g $17.40 This comparison
    WATER BOTTLE 950ml 950 ml / 32 oz W3.3 x H9.8 in Approx. 120 g $26.00 Own lid and ring (not shared with 300/500ml)

    U.S. sizes and prices from KINTO USA; weights from KINTO Japan, checked October 29, 2026. The 950ml was in stock in amber, smoke, blue and green, with clear sold out.

    The 950ml (32 oz) is the size for a full day at a desk or for keeping a liter of water close by. At 9.8 in tall, it won’t fit many bag pockets, and it uses its own lid ($7.00) and ring set ($3.80) rather than the 300/500ml parts; check the 950ml on Amazon. For a kids’ bottle with a straw and insulation, see our Thermos FUNtainer 12 oz vs 16 oz guide.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the KINTO Water Bottle 300ml if you:

    • Want the smallest, lightest option: 6.2 in tall, about 60 g empty
    • Carry a small bag or purse
    • Refill often at a desk, school or office
    • Want a small bottle for an older family member or a bedside table

    Choose the KINTO Water Bottle 500ml if you:

    • Want one fill to last a commute, a workout or an afternoon
    • Have room for an 8.0 in tall bottle
    • Want the lower price per ounce ($1.02 vs $1.43)
    • Are fine with amber, smoke, blue or green for now (the clear 500ml was sold out at KINTO USA on October 29, 2026)

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, KINTO sells the bottle as the ウォーターボトル (“water bottle”) with the same item numbers as in the U.S. (20121–20125 for 300ml, 20131–20135 for 500ml). The Japanese page frames it as a light, compact bottle for everyday hydration, and makes a point American pages don’t: the opening is sized so you can fill it easily from a water server, the kind of dispenser common in Japanese homes and offices. KINTO Japan lists the material as PCT resin, and the bottle’s manual names it Tritan™ Renew. On its KINTO LOOP page, KINTO Japan says Tritan Renew is made with over 50% material from recycled food and drink containers through molecular recycling, performs the same as regular copolyester and is BPA free.

    The Japanese page also has a longer list of cautions than the U.S. one. The ones that matter most outside Japan are no boiling water, no drinks containing citrus, no freezer, and no leaving it in a hot car. KINTO Japan sells the same 300/500ml lid and silicone ring 2-pack as spare parts.

    Item Japan (KINTO official)
    Japanese name ウォーターボトル (“water bottle”) 300ml / 500ml / 950ml
    Material (Japanese spec) PCT resin; the manual names it Tritan™ Renew, a copolyester with over 50% recycled content
    Official store price (tax incl.) 300ml ¥1,320; 500ml ¥1,540; 950ml ¥1,980
    Spare parts (tax incl.) 300/500ml lid ¥440 (φ46 x H36 mm, approx. 15 g); silicone ring 2-pack ¥330
    Refilling KINTO Japan says the opening makes it easy to fill from a water server
    Not allowed (Japanese page) Boiling water, carbonated or dry ice use, freezing, drinks containing citrus, leaving it in a hot car

    Japanese names, specs, cautions and prices from KINTO Japan (kinto.co.jp), its support FAQ and the Japanese/English Water Bottle manuals, checked October 29, 2026. Prices include Japanese consumption tax.

    Japanese reviewers on Rakuten (a KINTO retailer’s listing with 67 reviews averaging 4.79 out of 5 when we checked) most often praise how light it is and the pretty, see-through colors. Several say it didn’t leak even when carried upside down, and they like that it has few parts, goes in the dishwasher and has a silicone ring with a tab that is easy to pull off. One buyer chose the 300ml for walking around town because stainless bottles felt too heavy, and another bought it for an elderly father. One reviewer said the 500ml looks compact next to a 500ml stainless bottle. Some parents mention using it to carry cooled boiled water for baby formula. On the negative side, one buyer said the spout hits your nose when the bottle is half empty, one said a dish dryer alone doesn’t dry the inside, one said a lid deformed after touching a dish dryer’s heating element, and one found it a bit pricey. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    KINTO Water Bottle 300ml vs 500ml: Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I get the KINTO Water Bottle 300ml or 500ml?

    Get the 300ml (10 oz, $14.60 at KINTO USA) if you want the smallest bottle for a small bag, a desk or a short outing: it is 6.2 in tall and about 60 g empty. Get the 500ml (17 oz, $17.40) if you want one refill to last most of a morning or a workout: it holds two-thirds more but is only 1.8 in taller and about 15 g heavier. Both use the same lid, silicone ring, material and colors.

    Can I put hot coffee or tea in the KINTO Water Bottle?

    Not hot drinks. KINTO lists an upper temperature limit of 176°F (80°C) for the bottle and lid, and KINTO Japan says not to pour in boiling water. It is also a plastic bottle with no insulation rating, so warm drinks will cool and cold drinks will warm at room speed. For hot coffee, look at an insulated stainless tumbler instead.

    Is the KINTO Water Bottle leak-proof?

    KINTO doesn’t use the word “leak-proof” on its product pages. Its Japanese cautions say to fit the silicone ring correctly, not to overfill (liquid can overflow when you close the lid), and not to shake the bottle, because the contents may spray out. Japanese buyer reviews mostly report no leaks when the lid is closed properly.

    Is it dishwasher safe?

    Yes. KINTO USA says the bottle is dishwasher safe and asks you to place it in the upper basket so force and weight don’t distort it. Don’t use abrasive cleansers or steel wool, and dry it well after washing.

    Can I put soda, juice or ice in it?

    Ice: KINTO doesn’t limit regular ice, but dry ice is not allowed. Soda: KINTO Japan’s FAQ lists only certain tumblers as OK for carbonated drinks, and the Water Bottle is not one of them, so skip sparkling drinks. Juice: KINTO Japan says not to use drinks that contain citrus, because a compound in the peel (terpene) can damage the plastic.

    Can I freeze the KINTO Water Bottle?

    No. KINTO Japan says the bottle should not go in the freezer, because the resin may degrade or crack. It also can’t go in the microwave.

    Do the 300ml and 500ml bottles share parts?

    Yes. KINTO USA sells one “300ml / 500ml” lid ($7.00) and one 300/500ml silicone ring set of 2 ($3.80) that fit both sizes. The 950ml bottle uses its own lid and ring.

    Is the KINTO Water Bottle BPA free?

    Yes. KINTO USA lists it as BPA free. The bottle and lid are copolyester made with over 50% certified recycled content, which KINTO Japan identifies as Tritan Renew.

    Check current listings

    Amazon search results for “KINTO water bottle” often mix this bottle with other KINTO models, such as the stainless Travel Tumbler, Trail Tumbler and Water Tumbler, the Active Bottle, Kids Water Bottle and To Go Tumbler, plus the 950ml size and lids or silicone rings sold on their own. Some older listings may also show earlier item numbers. Check that the listing says “WATER BOTTLE” and 300ml or 500ml, and ideally the item number (20121–20125 or 20131–20135), before you buy.

    Check price: KINTO Water Bottle 300ml (10 oz)
    Check price: KINTO Water Bottle 500ml (17 oz)

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. We found no recalls for KINTO products in the U.S. CPSC recall database when we checked. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • Zojirushi SD-KA60H vs SD-KA75H: 20 oz or 25 oz Cool Bottle?

    Zojirushi SD-KA60H vs SD-KA75H: 20 oz or 25 oz Cool Bottle?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the Zojirushi SD-KA60H (20 oz, $43.99 at Zojirushi’s U.S. store) if you want the shorter, lighter bottle for a gym bag or commute: it is 9-1/8 in tall and weighs 11 oz. Get the SD-KA75H (25 oz, $46.99) if you drink more during a workout or a day outdoors: it is rated to keep water cool for up to 66 hours vs up to 47 hours. Both are cold-only bottles with the same twist-and-push Swiftwist lid, 2 in opening, dishwasher-safe parts and 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 in footprint; the SD-KA75H is 1-5/8 in taller and about 1 oz heavier.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official Zojirushi pages and manuals (starting with Zojirushi’s U.S. online store and the English SD-KA manual), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Zojirushi SD-KA60H (20 oz)
    Check price: Zojirushi SD-KA75H (25 oz)

    Zojirushi is a Japanese maker of vacuum bottles, travel mugs and rice cookers. The SD-KA Stainless Cool Bottle is a 2026 line built only for cold drinks, with a new lid that opens with a short twist and closes when you push it down. In Japan, Zojirushi launched it for adults who exercise for health or as a hobby. In the U.S. it comes in four sizes, and the two smaller ones, the 20 oz SD-KA60H and the 25 oz SD-KA75H, share the same width, lid and parts. That makes the choice mostly about how much you drink and how tall a bottle your bag can take.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Zojirushi SD-KA60H Zojirushi SD-KA75H
    Capacity 20 oz / 0.60 L 25 oz / 0.75 L
    Cold retention (Zojirushi USA) Up to 47 hours Up to 66 hours
    Cold after 6 hours (Zojirushi Japan) 9°C (48°F) or lower 9°C (48°F) or lower
    Size (W x D x H) 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 x 9-1/8 in (8.0 x 8.5 x 23 cm) 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 x 10-3/4 in (8.0 x 8.5 x 27 cm)
    Weight 11 oz (0.31 kg) 12 oz (0.34 kg)
    Opening 2 in (5 cm) Same
    Lid Swiftwist: twist to open, push down to close; gasket-free one-piece lid Same
    Hot drinks No (cold only) No (cold only)
    Dishwasher safe All parts: lid, body, bottom cover Same
    Interior SlickSteel polished stainless Same
    Extras Fold-down handle, silicone bottom cover Same
    Colors Charcoal Black (-BM), Misty Gray (-HM), Light Green (-GM) Same
    Made in Thailand Thailand
    Zojirushi U.S. store price $43.99 $46.99

    Specs and prices from Zojirushi’s U.S. online store (store.zojirushi.com); all three colors of both sizes listed as available, checked October 28, 2026. The U.S. cold rating is the time water starting at 40°F (4°C) takes to reach 59°F (15°C) in a 68°F (20°C) room. The 6-hour figure is from Zojirushi Japan (water starting at 4°C, 20°C room); the Fahrenheit conversion is ours. Weights are listed as 0.11 and 0.12 lb.oz by Zojirushi USA and as 0.31 and 0.34 kg by Zojirushi Japan.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 20 oz (0.60 L) vs 25 oz (0.75 L), 25% more in the SD-KA75H.
    • Cold rating: up to 47 hours vs up to 66 hours (Zojirushi USA). Zojirushi Japan rates both sizes at 9°C (48°F) or lower after 6 hours.
    • Height and weight: 9-1/8 in and 11 oz vs 10-3/4 in and 12 oz. The footprint is the same, 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 in.
    • Price: $43.99 vs $46.99 at Zojirushi’s U.S. store, so the larger size costs $3 more.
    • Same on both: cold only, Swiftwist lid, gasket-free one-piece lid, 2 in opening, all parts dishwasher safe, fold-down handle, silicone bottom cover, three colors, made in Thailand.

    1. Capacity and Cold Retention

    The 20 oz SD-KA60H holds 0.60 L and the 25 oz SD-KA75H holds 0.75 L. Zojirushi doesn’t give each size a use case in the U.S., but its Japanese launch release says the line comes in four sizes so you can match the bottle to the activity.

    Zojirushi publishes two kinds of cold figures, and they measure different things:

    • U.S. rating, “up to” hours: 47 hours for the SD-KA60H and 66 hours for the SD-KA75H. This is the time for water that starts at 40°F (4°C) to warm to 59°F (15°C) in a 68°F (20°C) room. 59°F is cool, not ice-cold, so read it as a ceiling rather than a promise of icy water two days later.
    • Japan rating, 6 hours: both sizes keep 4°C water at 9°C (48°F) or lower after 6 hours, measured upright, filled to the line in a 20°C room.

    So for a normal day, the two perform about the same on paper; the larger bottle only pulls ahead on long stretches, because a bigger volume of cold water warms more slowly. Zojirushi’s manual also suggests pre-chilling the bottle with cold water before filling, breaking up large ice, filling only to the fill line, and drinking the contents within the same day.

    2. The Swiftwist Lid and What You Can Put In

    Both sizes use the same lid. Zojirushi USA calls it the Swiftwist lid: it “flips open with a quick twist and securely closes when pushed down.” The gasket is built into the one-piece lid, so there is no loose ring to remove. Zojirushi calls it leak-proof when used as the manual describes. A few rules from the English manual apply to both sizes:

    • Cold only: never fill it with hot drinks, and don’t microwave it.
    • Not allowed: dry ice, carbonated drinks, dairy, fruit juice, high-sodium liquids such as soup, and drinks with fruit pulp or tea leaves.
    • Sports drinks: allowed, but clean the bottle thoroughly after each use.
    • Drinking: it is designed for drinking directly from the bottle; drinks may splash if poured. Don’t carry it by the lid cover; use the handle. Don’t drink from it while driving.
    • Lid direction: the lid unscrews in the opposite direction to the lid cover, which Zojirushi says keeps it from loosening.

    If you want one bottle for hot coffee and iced drinks, this isn’t it; our Zojirushi SM-VA60 vs SM-VA72 and Zojirushi SM-KHE36 vs SM-KHE48 guides cover Zojirushi’s hot-and-cold options.

    3. Size, Weight and Carrying

    Both bottles measure 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 in (8.0 x 8.5 cm) at their widest, so any pocket or holder that fits one is the same width for the other. The difference is height: 9-1/8 in (23 cm) for the SD-KA60H and 10-3/4 in (27 cm) for the SD-KA75H. Empty weight is 11 oz (0.31 kg) vs 12 oz (0.34 kg). Zojirushi doesn’t publish cup-holder fit, so measure your holder against the 3-1/8 x 3-3/8 in figure if that matters.

    Both have a fold-down carrying handle on the lid and a silicone cover that protects the bottom. The manual asks you to carry the bottle upright in a bag. The 2 in (5 cm) opening is wide enough that Zojirushi Japan pitches it for adding ice.

    4. Cleaning and Care

    Zojirushi Japan says there are only three parts to wash: the lid set, the body and the bottom cover. All three are dishwasher safe on both sizes. From the English manual:

    • Dishwasher limits: no commercial dishwashers or separate dish dryers; place the lid and bottom cover so they can’t fall onto the heating element; don’t wash the lid with its cover closed. Hand washing is recommended for longer life.
    • Body: fully washable, but don’t leave it soaking in water.
    • Don’t: boil the parts, use abrasive cleaners or scrub pads, or use bleach (Zojirushi’s own bottle detergent is the exception it lists).
    • Rust-colored spots: fill with hot water mixed with about 10% vinegar for 30–60 minutes, then rinse.
    • Lid check: Zojirushi suggests checking the lid about once a year and replacing it if it is worn.

    5. Practical Costs, Price and Where to Buy

    At Zojirushi’s U.S. online store, the SD-KA60H is $43.99 and the SD-KA75H is $46.99, and all three colors of both sizes were listed as available on October 28, 2026. That works out to about $2.20 per ounce for the 20 oz bottle and $1.88 per ounce for the 25 oz. The store advertises free standard shipping within the continental U.S.

    The bottles aren’t electric, so the only running costs are wear parts, and both sizes share them: the Lid Set S112 is $19.40 and the Base Rubber SP3 bottom cover is $13.25, each in the three bottle colors. Zojirushi USA backs the vacuum insulation with a 5-year warranty in the U.S. and Canada.

    Other SD-KA sizes

    Model Capacity Height Cold retention (USA) Official US price Note
    Zojirushi SD-KA60H 20 oz / 0.60 L 9-1/8 in Up to 47 hours $43.99 This comparison
    Zojirushi SD-KA75H 25 oz / 0.75 L 10-3/4 in Up to 66 hours $46.99 This comparison
    Zojirushi SD-KA100H 34 oz / 1.0 L 10-7/8 in Up to 74 hours $48.99 3-5/8 x 3-3/4 in base; five colors
    Zojirushi SD-KA120H 41 oz / 1.2 L 12-1/2 in Up to 79 hours $49.99 3-5/8 x 3-3/4 in base; three colors

    All figures from Zojirushi’s U.S. online store, checked October 28, 2026. Cold ratings use the same 40°F start, 59°F end, 68°F room test.

    The 34 oz SD-KA100H and 41 oz SD-KA120H are wider (3-5/8 x 3-3/4 in) and use different lid and base parts. They make sense for a full day of outdoor work or sports; check the 34 oz SD-KA100H on Amazon. Zojirushi’s older cold-only Cool Bottle, the SD-CS50, still has a page on the U.S. store but was listed as out of stock. For a kids’ bottle with a straw, see our Thermos FUNtainer 12 oz vs 16 oz guide.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Zojirushi SD-KA60H (20 oz) if you:

    • Want the shorter bottle: 9-1/8 in tall, 11 oz empty
    • Refill during the day, at the office, school or gym
    • Carry it in a smaller bag or side pocket
    • Drink it within a few hours of filling

    Choose the Zojirushi SD-KA75H (25 oz) if you:

    • Drink more during workouts, hikes or yard work
    • Want the longer rating: up to 66 hours vs 47
    • Have room for a 10-3/4 in tall bottle
    • Prefer the lower price per ounce ($1.88 vs $2.20)

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, Zojirushi sells the line as the ステンレス クールボトル (SD-KA60 / 75 / 100 / 120, without the U.S. “H” suffix) and launched it on February 21, 2026. Its launch release says the design is aimed at adults whose exercise is about health and hobbies rather than competition, so the focus is on quick sips during activity and easy carrying. Zojirushi Japan calls the lid スマートキャップ (“smart cap”): a small turn releases the lock and the cap opens on its own when you let go, and you close it just by pushing. It sits on Zojirushi’s シームレスせん (“seamless stopper”), which Zojirushi says was the industry’s first stopper with the gasket built in (based on its own 2020 survey). The Japanese page also says the lid has an air-insulation layer to limit condensation and that the 内面ラクリア加工+ interior is more corrosion-resistant than its previous electropolished finish, which is why it allows sports drinks.

    The Japanese manual adds that repair parts are kept for 5 years after production ends and treats the lid set as a consumable to check about once a year.

    Item Japan (Zojirushi official)
    Official name ステンレス クールボトル (“stainless cool bottle”), SD-KA60 / SD-KA75 / SD-KA100 / SD-KA120
    Lid name スマートキャップ (“smart cap”) on a シームレスせん (“seamless stopper”) with the gasket built in
    Japan launch February 21, 2026
    Cold after 6 hours 9°C or lower (0.6 L and 0.75 L); 8°C or lower (1.0 L and 1.2 L)
    Interior 内面ラクリア加工+ (“Rakuria+” finish), which Zojirushi says resists rust and is OK for sports drinks
    Official store price (tax incl.) SD-KA60 ¥4,158; SD-KA75 ¥4,378 (Zojirushi Direct)
    Parts support (Japanese manual) Repair parts kept for 5 years after production ends

    Japanese names, dates, specs and prices from Zojirushi Japan (zojirushi.co.jp), its January 21, 2026 news release, the Japanese SD-KA manual and Zojirushi Direct, checked October 28, 2026. Prices include Japanese consumption tax.

    Japanese reviewers on Zojirushi Direct, Rakuten and Yahoo! Shopping most often praise the lid: several say it opens with a light twist as easily as a push-button bottle, one buyer in her 50s with sore finger joints said it was easy to use, and parents buying for school-age children liked that it works one-handed. They also like the short parts list and the dishwasher-safe design, and one Zojirushi Direct reviewer said ice could still be heard inside the next morning. One parent said the 750 mL size was “just right” for a second grader. On the negative side, some buyers found it confusing at first that the lid unscrews in the opposite direction, one said the silicone bottom cover came off and was lost within 10 days and the bottom edge chipped when dropped, one worried the cap could open if a bag is thrown down, and one Rakuten buyer reported tea leaking from the sip area. Review counts are still modest because the line launched in 2026. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Zojirushi SD-KA60H vs SD-KA75H: Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I get the Zojirushi SD-KA60H or SD-KA75H?

    Get the SD-KA60H (20 oz) if you want the shorter, lighter bottle: 9-1/8 in tall and 11 oz empty. Get the SD-KA75H (25 oz) if you drink more during a workout or a long day out, or want the longest cold rating of the two: Zojirushi USA rates it up to 66 hours vs up to 47 hours for the 20 oz model. The 25 oz bottle is 1-5/8 in taller, about 1 oz heavier and $3 more at Zojirushi’s U.S. store ($46.99 vs $43.99). Width, lid, opening and colors are the same.

    Can I put hot coffee or tea in the SD-KA Cool Bottle?

    No. Zojirushi’s manual labels the SD-KA “Cold Only” and says never to fill it with hot beverages. If you need hot and cold, look at Zojirushi’s regular travel mugs instead, such as the SM-KHE or SM-VA series.

    How long does the SD-KA keep drinks cold?

    Zojirushi USA rates the SD-KA60H at up to 47 hours and the SD-KA75H at up to 66 hours. That is how long water starting at 40°F (4°C) takes to warm to 59°F (15°C) in a 68°F (20°C) room, so it is the time to “cool,” not “icy.” Zojirushi Japan gives a stricter figure: water starting at 4°C is 9°C (48°F) or lower after 6 hours in both sizes.

    Is the Zojirushi SD-KA dishwasher safe?

    Yes. Zojirushi says all parts, including the lid, body and bottom cover, are dishwasher safe. The manual adds limits: don’t use a commercial dishwasher or a separate dish dryer, keep the lid and bottom cover from falling onto the heating element, and don’t wash the lid with its cover closed. It recommends hand washing for longer life.

    Can I put sports drinks, soda or juice in it?

    Sports drinks: Zojirushi Japan says the interior finish is OK for them, and the English manual asks you to clean the bottle thoroughly after each use, especially after sports drinks. Carbonated drinks and dry ice: no. The manual also lists dairy, fruit juice, high-sodium liquids such as soup, and drinks with fruit pulp or tea leaves among things not to put in.

    Is the Swiftwist lid leak-proof?

    Zojirushi calls the lid leak-proof “when used properly according to the instruction manual.” The manual asks you to fill only to the fill line, close the lid fully and carry the bottle upright in a bag. It is designed for drinking directly from the bottle, and drinks may splash if you pour from it.

    Do the 20 oz and 25 oz bottles share parts?

    Yes. Zojirushi’s U.S. store sells one Lid Set for both sizes (S112, $19.40) and one Base Rubber bottom cover for both sizes (SP3, $13.25), in matching colors. The 34 oz and 41 oz bottles use different parts (S113 and SP4).

    Why does my Zojirushi bottle rattle?

    Zojirushi’s manual says the rattling sound is metallic foil inside the vacuum wall and is normal.

    Check current listings

    Amazon search results for Zojirushi cold bottles often mix the SD-KA with Zojirushi’s hot-and-cold travel mugs (SM-KHE, SM-VA, SM-SHE), the older SD-CS50 Cool Bottle, Japanese-market SD-KA60 or SD-KA75 listings without the “H,” and replacement lids or bottom covers sold on their own. Look for “SD-KA60H” or “SD-KA75H” in the listing before you buy.

    Check price: Zojirushi SD-KA60H (20 oz)
    Check price: Zojirushi SD-KA75H (25 oz)

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. We found no recalls for Zojirushi products in the U.S. CPSC recall database when we checked. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • Tiger MKL-W050 vs MKL-W075: 17 oz or 25 oz Food Jar?

    Tiger MKL-W050 vs MKL-W075: 17 oz or 25 oz Food Jar?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the Tiger MKL-W050 (0.5 L / 17 oz, $40.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store) for everyday soup, stew or porridge lunches. Get the MKL-W075 (0.75 L / 25 oz, $43.99) for noodles, curry or a rice bowl, or if you want the hottest food at lunch: Tiger rates it 73°C (163°F) or higher after 6 hours vs 66°C (151°F) for the MKL-W050. Both have the same 7 cm (2.8 in) mouth, the same dishwasher-safe one-piece stopper and the same 9.9 cm (3.9 in) width; the MKL-W075 is 3.6 cm (1.4 in) taller and 50 g heavier.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official Tiger pages and manuals (starting with Tiger USA’s MKL-W page and Tiger’s U.S. online store), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Tiger MKL-W050 (17 oz)
    Check price: Tiger MKL-W075 (25 oz)

    Tiger Corporation is a Japanese maker of vacuum bottles and rice cookers. The MKL-W is its newest wide-mouth food jar (a “soup jar” in Japan). Its main change is a stopper with the gasket molded in, so there is no loose silicone ring to wash, lose or put back wrong, and both the stopper and the body can go in the dishwasher. Tiger USA lists three sizes, but its U.S. store sells only two of them, the 17 oz MKL-W050 and the 25 oz MKL-W075, which is the choice most U.S. buyers will face.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Tiger MKL-W050 Tiger MKL-W075
    Capacity (Tiger USA) 0.5 L / 17 oz (manual: 16.9 oz) 0.75 L / 25 oz (manual: 25.4 oz)
    Tiger’s suggested use Chunkier soups, stews and porridge Noodles, curries and rice bowls
    Heat retention, 1 hour 84°C (183°F) or higher 86°C (186°F) or higher
    Heat retention, 6 hours 66°C (151°F) or higher 73°C (163°F) or higher
    Cold retention, 6 hours 9°C (48°F) or lower 8°C (46°F) or lower
    Size (W x D x H) 9.9 x 9.9 x 14.3 cm (3.9 x 3.9 x 5.6 in) 9.9 x 9.9 x 17.9 cm (3.9 x 3.9 x 7.0 in)
    Weight 0.36 kg (0.8 lb) 0.41 kg (0.9 lb)
    Mouth About 7 cm (2.8 in), curled “mug-like” rim Same
    Stopper One-piece stopper with built-in gasket; fits from any direction Same
    Dishwasher Body and stopper (take them apart first) Same
    Colors Cloud Blue (AL), Vermillion (TL), Eaglet White (WK) Same
    Matching sling (sold separately) MKL-Z50P, $18.99 MKL-Z75P, $20.99
    Made in China China
    Tiger USA store price $40.99 $43.99

    Specs from Tiger USA’s MKL-W product page and the English MKL-W manual; prices from Tiger’s U.S. online store (us-store.tiger-corporation.com), all three colors listed as available, checked October 27, 2026. Retention figures are Tiger’s lab ratings: the jar is filled with water at 95°C (203°F) or 4°C (39°F) and kept upright in a 20°C (68°F) room. Fahrenheit figures are from Tiger’s manual; inch figures for size are Tiger USA’s; the 2.8 in mouth and 39°F conversions are ours.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 0.5 L (17 oz) vs 0.75 L (25 oz), 50% more food in the MKL-W075.
    • Heat after 6 hours: 66°C (151°F) or higher vs 73°C (163°F) or higher. A bigger mass of hot food cools more slowly, so the larger jar is rated warmer.
    • Height and weight: 14.3 cm (5.6 in) and 0.36 kg vs 17.9 cm (7.0 in) and 0.41 kg. Width is the same, 9.9 cm (3.9 in).
    • Price: $40.99 vs $43.99 at Tiger’s U.S. store, so the larger size costs $3 more.
    • Same on both: 7 cm (2.8 in) mouth with a curled rim, one-piece dishwasher-safe stopper, three colors, made in China.

    1. Capacity: What Fits in 17 oz vs 25 oz

    Tiger gives each size a job. On its U.S. page it recommends the 500 mL size for “chunkier soups, stews, and porridge” and the 750 mL size for noodles, curries and rice bowls (the 400 mL MKL-W040 is for soups and broths). Tiger’s official recipe pages follow the same split: for the MKL-W050 they include gazpacho, beef fried rice, pork and garlic-chive noodles and blueberry ice cream; for the MKL-W075, a chicken hot pot (chanko), an extra-large curry, chilled udon with fried tofu and a fruit macedonia. See Tiger’s MKL-W recipes.

    Two details from Tiger’s manual matter when you pick a size:

    • Leave headroom. Fill only to the maximum line, about 1 cm (1/2 in) below the rim. Tiger says the listed capacity is the actual volume with the stopper in, so the amount of food you can pack is a little less than 17 oz or 25 oz.
    • A full jar stays hotter. Tiger’s ratings are for a jar filled to capacity. If you only ever pack about 12 oz of soup, the MKL-W050 is a better match than a half-empty MKL-W075.

    If you are torn between sizes from different brands, our Thermos Icon 16 oz vs 24 oz and Zojirushi SW-LA52H vs SW-KA52H guides cover the same lunch-size question.

    2. Heat and Cold Retention

    Tiger publishes three numbers for each size, all measured from a full jar standing upright in a 20°C (68°F) room:

    • Hot, 1 hour (starting at 95°C / 203°F): MKL-W050 84°C (183°F) or higher; MKL-W075 86°C (186°F) or higher.
    • Hot, 6 hours: MKL-W050 66°C (151°F) or higher; MKL-W075 73°C (163°F) or higher.
    • Cold, 6 hours (starting at 4°C / 39°F): MKL-W050 9°C (48°F) or lower; MKL-W075 8°C (46°F) or lower.

    The 7°C (12°F) gap at 6 hours is the biggest practical difference between the two. If you pack lunch at 7 a.m. and eat at 1 p.m., the MKL-W075 is rated to stay closer to “hot,” and the MKL-W050 closer to “warm.” Tiger’s manual adds steps that apply to both: preheat with hot water (or precool with cold water) for 1–2 minutes, fill with food that is already hot, close the stopper tightly and eat within 6 hours. It also asks you to heat dairy dishes and cold soups thoroughly first, while smoothies and cold desserts are fine to pack cold, and not to pack raw or perishable food.

    3. Size, Weight and the Food Jar Sling

    Both jars are 9.9 cm (3.9 in) wide, so the width your bag pocket needs is the same. The difference is height: 14.3 cm (5.6 in) for the MKL-W050 and 17.9 cm (7.0 in) for the MKL-W075. Empty weight is 0.36 kg (0.8 lb) vs 0.41 kg (0.9 lb).

    Tiger sells a matching insulated pouch, the Food Jar Sling, in the same three colors. The MKL-Z50P ($18.99) fits the MKL-W040 and MKL-W050 and measures 11.5 x 11.5 x 17.5 cm (4.5 x 4.5 x 6.9 in); the MKL-Z75P ($20.99) fits the MKL-W075 and is 20.8 cm (8.2 in) tall. Tiger describes a “T-hold” insulation structure, a thick insulated lid cover, insulation up the sides to the zipper and a pocket for cutlery (not included), and says it is machine-washable in a laundry net on a hand-wash cycle. Tiger says the sling improves heat and cold retention but doesn’t publish by how much. Check the Tiger Food Jar Sling on Amazon.

    4. Stopper, Cleaning and Care

    The two sizes share the same stopper design, which is the main reason to choose this jar over older Tiger models:

    • Gasket built in: the stopper has an integrated gasket, so there is no separate ring to remove. Tiger’s manual says the valve and gasket can’t be taken out.
    • Two parts: the stopper part is a lid plus an inner stopper. Tiger says it comes off in one touch and can be set from any direction.
    • Dishwasher and dish dryer safe: body and stopper, separated first.
    • Interior: Tiger’s “Super Clean” finish, which Tiger says resists stains and odors.
    • Don’t: microwave, freeze, use near a stove or open flame, use chlorine bleach, boil the parts, soak the body or stopper, or scrub with cleanser, metal or nylon pads. No dry ice or carbonated drinks.
    • Mineral stains: Tiger’s manual suggests dissolving about 10 g of citric acid in lukewarm water and leaving it in the jar for a few hours.
    • Wear parts: Tiger treats the stopper and inner stopper as consumables and suggests checking them about once a year.

    The jar isn’t electric, so there are no running costs beyond the occasional replacement stopper.

    5. Price and Where to Buy

    At Tiger’s U.S. online store, the MKL-W050 is $40.99 and the MKL-W075 is $43.99, and all three colors of both sizes were listed as available on October 27, 2026. Tiger’s store offers free U.S. delivery on orders over $100, doesn’t ship to Alaska, Hawaii, Guam or Puerto Rico, and notes that delivery time may vary “due to production reasons.” Tiger USA lists the 14 oz MKL-W040 on its product page, but its U.S. store doesn’t sell it.

    Other food jar options

    Model Capacity Height Heat after 6 h Official US price Note
    Tiger MKL-W040 0.4 L / 14 oz 12.8 cm (5.0 in) 61°C (142°F) or higher Not sold at Tiger’s U.S. store Listed on Tiger USA’s product page
    Tiger MKL-W050 0.5 L / 17 oz 14.3 cm (5.6 in) 66°C (151°F) or higher $40.99 This comparison
    Tiger MKL-W075 0.75 L / 25 oz 17.9 cm (7.0 in) 73°C (163°F) or higher $43.99 This comparison
    Zojirushi SW-LA52H 0.52 L / 18 oz 5-3/4 in 160°F (71°C) $39.99 2-7/8 in mouth, made in Thailand
    Zojirushi SW-LA75H 0.75 L / 25 oz 7-1/4 in 165°F (74°C) $42.99 2-7/8 in mouth, made in Thailand

    Tiger figures from Tiger USA and the MKL-W manual; Zojirushi figures from Zojirushi’s U.S. online store (same 95°C / 203°F start, 68°F room). Prices checked October 27, 2026. Celsius conversions of the Zojirushi figures are ours.

    Zojirushi’s SW-LA series is the closest rival: also a wide-mouth jar with a one-piece gasketed stopper and a dishwasher-safe design, at $1 less per size, with slightly higher 6-hour heat ratings. See Zojirushi SW-LA52H vs SW-KA52H and Zojirushi SW-LA30 vs SW-LA40 for the details.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Tiger MKL-W050 (17 oz) if you:

    • Pack soup, stew, chili or oatmeal for one person
    • Want the shorter jar: 14.3 cm (5.6 in) tall, 0.36 kg
    • Usually fill about a pint or less, so the jar stays close to full
    • Eat within a few hours of packing

    Choose the Tiger MKL-W075 (25 oz) if you:

    • Pack noodles, curry over rice or a rice bowl as a whole meal
    • Want the best 6-hour rating in the line, 73°C (163°F) or higher
    • Have a bag that fits a 17.9 cm (7.0 in) tall jar
    • Share food on outings or have a big appetite

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, Tiger sells the series as 真空断熱フードジャー (“vacuum-insulated food jar”) with the tagline that it keeps food at temperature “from warm soups and dishes to cold desserts,” and it calls the new stopper らくらくキャップ (“easy cap”). Tiger Japan stresses the same benefits as the U.S. page: no gasket to forget, misplace or put on wrong, a cap that can be set from any direction, and a curled rim meant to feel like a mug. Its size guide is slightly different from the U.S. one: soups for 400 mL, soups with large ingredients and rice porridge (お粥) for 500 mL, and noodles, curry and rice bowls for 750 mL. Japanese tech news site Kaden Watch reported that the series went on sale in Japan on September 1 and was the first in the line to use a gasket-integrated stopper.

    The Japanese manual adds a few details the U.S. materials don’t: Tiger suggests its own bottle cleaner for tea and coffee stains, keeps repair parts for 10 years after a model ends production, and sells parts through its Japanese parts shop. For the MKL-W050, that shop lists the stopper set (MKL1051) at ¥2,200 and the inner stopper alone (MKL1113) at ¥1,100.

    Item Japan (Tiger official)
    Official name 真空断熱フードジャー (“vacuum-insulated food jar”)
    Stopper name らくらくキャップ (“easy cap”), a stopper with the gasket built in
    Sizes sold 400 mL (MKL-W040), 500 mL (MKL-W050), 750 mL (MKL-W075)
    Tiger Japan’s size guide 400 mL: soups; 500 mL: soups with large pieces, rice porridge; 750 mL: noodles, curry, rice bowls
    Official store price (tax incl.) ¥4,180 / ¥4,400 / ¥4,730
    Replacement parts (MKL-W050, tiger-shop.jp) Stopper set MKL1051 ¥2,200; inner stopper MKL1113 ¥1,100
    Parts support (Japanese manual) Repair parts kept for 10 years after production ends

    Japanese names, sizes and prices from Tiger Japan (tiger-corporation.com/jpn), Tiger’s Japanese official store and tiger-shop.jp, checked October 27, 2026. Prices include Japanese consumption tax.

    Japanese reviewers on Tiger’s official Rakuten shop, Yahoo! Shopping and the parenting site Mama-no-wa (whose posts come from a Tiger-supplied product trial) mostly praise the heat retention: several say soup made in the morning was still hot at lunch, and one monitor said her husband found his lunch still very warm when he ate it around 3 p.m. They also like the wide mouth for large pieces of food and the short parts list for washing, and one buyer chose the 500 mL size because it could carry a pouch meal kept hot in hot water. Mama-no-wa’s 750 mL tester suggested it for family outings. The main complaint is the inner stopper: one Rakuten buyer found it stiff to pull out, and one Yahoo! Shopping buyer said it was hard to remove for each wash, held odors and showed a faint crack-like line after two uses. Review counts on the official shops are still small. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Tiger MKL-W050 vs MKL-W075: Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I get the Tiger MKL-W050 or MKL-W075?

    Get the MKL-W050 (0.5 L / 17 oz) for a normal lunch of soup, stew or porridge; it is 14.3 cm (5.6 in) tall and weighs 0.36 kg. Get the MKL-W075 (0.75 L / 25 oz) if your lunch is a full bowl of noodles, curry or a rice bowl, or if you want the warmest food: Tiger rates it 73°C (163°F) or higher after 6 hours vs 66°C (151°F) for the MKL-W050. The bigger jar is 3.6 cm (1.4 in) taller, 50 g heavier and $3 more at Tiger’s U.S. store ($43.99 vs $40.99).

    How long does the Tiger MKL-W food jar keep food hot?

    Tiger rates the MKL-W050 at 84°C (183°F) or higher after 1 hour and 66°C (151°F) or higher after 6 hours, and the MKL-W075 at 86°C (186°F) and 73°C (163°F). Those numbers come from a lab test: the jar is filled to capacity with water at 95°C (203°F), kept upright in a 20°C (68°F) room. Real food, a partly filled jar or a cold day will give different results. Tiger’s manual says to eat the food within 6 hours.

    Is the Tiger MKL-W dishwasher safe?

    Yes. Tiger says both the body and the stopper can go in the dishwasher and dish dryer; take the stopper off the body first. The gasket is built into the stopper, so there is no separate ring to remove, and Tiger’s manual says the valve and gasket are not meant to be removed.

    Can I microwave the Tiger food jar?

    No. Tiger’s manual lists the microwave and the freezer among things not to do, and also warns against dry ice, carbonated drinks, chlorine bleach and soaking the body or stopper in water. Heat the food in a pot or a separate microwave-safe dish, then pour it in.

    How full should I fill it?

    Tiger’s manual says to fill only up to the maximum line, about 1 cm (1/2 in) below the rim. Tiger also says the listed capacity is the actual volume with the stopper in place, so plan on a little less food than the 17 oz or 25 oz on the box. Preheat the jar with hot water for 1–2 minutes (or precool it with cold water) before you fill it.

    Will it leak in my bag?

    Tiger’s manual says to close the stopper tightly and carry the jar upright, because it may leak if it is laid on its side. It also says not to use it in a moving vehicle. Tiger’s optional Food Jar Sling (MKL-Z50P for the MKL-W050, MKL-Z75P for the MKL-W075) keeps it upright in a bag and adds insulation, though Tiger doesn’t publish how much it helps.

    How does it compare with the Zojirushi SW-LA food jars?

    On paper they are close. Zojirushi’s U.S. store lists the 18 oz SW-LA52H at 160°F (71°C) after 6 hours for $39.99 and the 25 oz SW-LA75H at 165°F (74°C) for $42.99, from the same 95°C (203°F) starting point in a 68°F room. Tiger rates the 17 oz MKL-W050 at 151°F (66°C) or higher and the 25 oz MKL-W075 at 163°F (73°C) or higher. Both brands use a one-piece stopper with a built-in gasket and are dishwasher safe. Tiger’s mouth is about 2.8 in wide and Zojirushi’s is 2-7/8 in.

    Why does my Tiger food jar rattle?

    Tiger’s manual says a rattling sound comes from metal foil inside the vacuum wall and is normal.

    Check current listings

    Amazon search results for Tiger food jars often mix the MKL-W with older Tiger models such as the MCL-B and MCL-A (13 oz) and the MCJ-A050, which comes with a bag and spoon. You may also see the 14 oz MKL-W040 (sold in Japan), the Food Jar Sling sold on its own, and Zojirushi or Thermos jars. Look for “MKL-W050” or “MKL-W075” in the listing before you buy.

    Check price: Tiger MKL-W050 (17 oz)
    Check price: Tiger MKL-W075 (25 oz)

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. We found no recalls for Tiger Corporation food jars in the U.S. CPSC recall database when we checked. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml vs 500ml: Which Size to Buy?

    KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml vs 500ml: Which Size to Buy?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: For most people, get the KINTO Travel Tumbler 500ml. It costs only $2.60 more at KINTO USA ($36.80 vs $34.20), holds about 43% more (17 oz vs 12 oz), and KINTO rates it a little better after 6 hours: 156°F vs 149°F hot, 45°F vs 46°F cold. The 350ml is about 65 g (2.3 oz) lighter and 27 mm (about 1.1 in) shorter, so pick it if you drink one small coffee at a time or carry a small bag. Neither is dishwasher safe, and neither takes carbonated drinks.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official KINTO pages and documents (starting with KINTO USA’s 350ml page and 500ml page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml
    Check price: KINTO Travel Tumbler 500ml

    KINTO is a Japanese tableware company founded in 1972 in Hikone, Shiga Prefecture, and the Travel Tumbler, launched in 2017, is one of its best-known products. It is a vacuum-insulated stainless tumbler with a screw-on lid and a separate drinking cap, designed so you can sip from any angle, like a glass or mug. The two sizes look almost identical, so the real questions are how much you drink, how much weight and height you want to carry, and whether the small price gap matters.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml KINTO Travel Tumbler 500ml
    Capacity 350 ml (KINTO: 12 oz; about 11.8 US fl oz) 500 ml (KINTO: 17 oz; about 16.9 US fl oz)
    Heat retention @ 6 hrs* 65°C (149°F) or above 69°C (156°F) or above
    Cold retention @ 6 hrs* 8°C (46°F) or below 7°C (45°F) or below
    Diameter 70 mm (about 2.8 in) 74 mm (about 2.9 in)
    Height with lid 170 mm (about 6.7 in) 197 mm (about 7.8 in)
    Body height without lid 145 mm (about 5.7 in) 173 mm (about 6.8 in)
    Weight (empty) About 245 g (about 8.6 oz) About 310 g (about 10.9 oz)
    Materials 18-8 stainless steel, polypropylene, silicone; BPA free 18-8 stainless steel, polypropylene, silicone; BPA free
    Leak-proof (KINTO) Yes, when closed correctly Yes, when closed correctly
    Dishwasher / microwave No / No No / No
    Carbonated drinks No No
    Colors (KINTO USA) Sand beige, ash green, stainless steel, white, khaki, black, coyote Same 7 colors (stainless steel and sand beige were sold out when we checked)
    KINTO USA price $34.20 $36.80
    Price per fl oz About $2.90 About $2.18
    Replacement lid / silicone rings (KINTO USA) $15.00 / $2.50 $15.00 / $2.50
    Made in China China

    *KINTO measures heat retention by filling the tumbler with hot water, closing the lid when the water reaches 95°C ±1°C (203°F), and measuring after 6 hours in a 20°C ±2°C (68°F) room. Cold retention starts at 4°C ±1°C (39°F) under the same conditions. Specs and prices are from KINTO USA and KINTO Japan, checked October 2026. Inch, ounce and Fahrenheit conversions and price per fl oz are ours, calculated from KINTO’s metric specs, so they can differ slightly from the rounded inch figures on KINTO’s US pages.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: 350 ml (about 11.8 fl oz) vs 500 ml (about 16.9 fl oz). The 500ml holds about 43% more.
    • Heat and cold retention: The 500ml is rated 69°C (156°F) hot and 7°C (45°F) cold after 6 hours, vs 65°C (149°F) and 8°C (46°F) for the 350ml.
    • Size and weight: The 500ml is 27 mm (about 1.1 in) taller, 4 mm wider and about 65 g (2.3 oz) heavier.
    • Price: $34.20 vs $36.80 at KINTO USA, so the 500ml costs less per ounce (about $2.18 vs $2.90).
    • What stays the same: materials, lid design, hand-wash-only care, no carbonated drinks, the same 7 US colors, and $15 replacement lids for each size. The silicone rings are size-specific and not interchangeable.

    1. Capacity: How Much Coffee Actually Fits

    KINTO labels the sizes “12 oz” and “17 oz,” but those are rounded. 350 ml is about 11.8 US fl oz and 500 ml is about 16.9 fl oz. KINTO’s instructions also warn not to pour in too much, because the drink can overflow when you screw the drinking cap on.

    • 350ml: Best for an 8–10 oz pour-over, a small latte or a cup of tea. A full 12 oz drink leaves almost no headroom.
    • 500ml: Fits a 12 oz drink with room to spare, or two small mugs of coffee. A full 16 oz drink is a tight fit.

    If your usual coffee-shop order is 12 oz or larger, the 500ml is the safer choice. If you brew one cup at home and drink it within the morning, the 350ml is enough.

    2. Heat and Cold Retention

    KINTO tests both sizes the same way, so the numbers compare directly:

    • Hot after 6 hours: 65°C (149°F) or above for the 350ml vs 69°C (156°F) or above for the 500ml
    • Cold after 6 hours: 8°C (46°F) or below vs 7°C (45°F) or below

    The larger tumbler holds heat a little better mainly because a bigger volume of liquid cools more slowly. In practice, a 4°C (7°F) gap matters most when you fill up early and drink late. Note that these ratings start with 95°C water; coffee is usually poured in cooler, so your drink will be cooler than the rating after 6 hours. KINTO recommends preheating or precooling the tumbler with a little hot or cold water for 1–2 minutes first.

    One detail can confuse shoppers: the general feature text on KINTO USA’s 500ml page says “hot above 65°C/149°F for 6 hours,” which is the 350ml figure. The 500ml’s own details section, KINTO USA’s tumbler comparison page and KINTO Japan all list 69°C (156°F) for the 500ml.

    3. Size, Weight and Carrying

    The 350ml is 70 mm (about 2.8 in) wide and 170 mm (about 6.7 in) tall with the lid on. The 500ml is 74 mm (about 2.9 in) wide and 197 mm (about 7.8 in) tall. Empty, they weigh about 245 g (8.6 oz) and 310 g (10.9 oz). Full, the gap grows to roughly 200 g (7 oz), because the 500ml also holds 150 ml more liquid.

    Both are under 3 inches across, but KINTO doesn’t list cup holder compatibility, so check your car’s cup holder against those diameters. Height matters if you fill the tumbler directly under a coffee machine or drip cone: the body alone (without the lid) is 145 mm (5.7 in) for the 350ml and 173 mm (6.8 in) for the 500ml.

    KINTO also sells carry straps. KINTO Japan’s comparison chart matches the 350ml with the 70 mm A strap and the 500ml with the 75 mm B strap. At KINTO USA, the Tumbler Strap 70mm A and Tumbler Strap 75mm are $20.80 each.

    4. Lid, Cleaning and Leaks

    Both sizes use the same design. According to KINTO’s parts diagram, the tumbler comes apart into five pieces: the stainless steel body, a polypropylene drinking cap, a stainless and polypropylene top lid, and two silicone rings (a small one for the lid and a larger one for the cap). KINTO says the cap has no screw threads at the rim, so it feels smooth on your lips, and that the cap is shaped to stop ice cubes and hot drinks from rushing out.

    Neither size is dishwasher safe. KINTO’s instructions say not to use a microwave, oven or dishwasher, not to boil the tumbler, not to leave it soaking and not to use chlorine bleach, abrasive cleansers or steel wool. Wash and dry it soon after use, and don’t leave drinks inside for a long time.

    KINTO USA lists the Travel Tumbler as leak-proof, but its support page explains the common causes of leaks:

    • Silicone rings fitted upside down or on the wrong part
    • The top lid or drinking cap closed at an angle
    • A top lid tightened so hard that the drinking cap loosens when you open it
    • Old silicone rings that have lost their elasticity

    KINTO’s fix: turn the lid counterclockwise until you feel a click, then tighten it so it sits level. Hold the drinking cap when you open the lid, and keep the tumbler upright in a bag.

    KINTO updated the lid, cap and silicone rings to make opening easier and ring orientation clearer. KINTO USA dates the update to January 2025 (May 2024 in Japan). New lids and caps have a KINTO logo on the underside, and the new “B” rings have a small tab that faces out. Old and new parts are not interchangeable. If you have an older tumbler, KINTO USA recommends buying a new 350ml lid or new 500ml lid ($15 each), which includes the updated rings. Spare B rings are $2.50 for the 350ml or 500ml.

    5. Colors and Price

    At KINTO USA, the 350ml is $34.20 and the 500ml is $36.80. Both come in sand beige, ash green, stainless steel, white, khaki, black and coyote. When we checked, all seven 350ml colors were in stock, while the 500ml was sold out in stainless steel and sand beige. KINTO says the colored versions have a powder-coat finish that helps resist scratches.

    Because the price gap is only $2.60, Amazon prices can easily flip the math. If one size is on sale, it may be worth choosing based on price alone, as long as it fits how much you drink.

    The Handle Option: Day Off Tumbler 500ml

    If you like the 500ml but want a carry handle, KINTO’s Day Off Tumbler 500ml shares the same heat and cold ratings and uses the same 500ml silicone rings.

    Model Capacity Height Weight Heat @ 6 hrs* Cold @ 6 hrs* Handle KINTO USA price
    Travel Tumbler 350ml 350 ml / 12 oz 170 mm 245 g 65°C (149°F) 8°C (46°F) No $34.20
    Travel Tumbler 500ml 500 ml / 17 oz 197 mm 310 g 69°C (156°F) 7°C (45°F) No $36.80
    Day Off Tumbler 500ml 500 ml / 17 oz 226 mm 300 g 69°C (156°F) 7°C (45°F) Yes, on the lid $39.40

    *Same test conditions as above. Specs and prices from KINTO USA, October 2026. Heights include the lid. The Day Off Tumbler’s lid has a built-in loop handle, which makes it taller.

    The Day Off is $39.40 at KINTO USA and 226 mm (about 8.9 in) tall with the lid. Check the KINTO Day Off Tumbler 500ml on Amazon. For more travel mug comparisons, see our Zojirushi SM-KHE36 vs SM-KHE48 and Thermos Icon 12 oz Tumbler vs 14 oz Mug guides.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml if you:

    • Usually carry one 8–10 oz coffee or tea
    • Want the lightest, most compact option (about 245 g, 6.7 in tall)
    • Carry a small bag or have small hands
    • Drink within a few hours, so the 4°C (7°F) heat gap won’t matter

    Choose the KINTO Travel Tumbler 500ml if you:

    • Order 12 oz drinks or refill less often at work
    • Want the better 6-hour ratings (156°F hot, 45°F cold)
    • Want the lower price per ounce for only $2.60 more
    • Might later want the Day Off Tumbler, which shares its rings

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, KINTO sells the same two sizes as トラベルタンブラー (“Travel Tumbler”) 350ml and 500ml, with the same item numbers in the stainless steel color (20931 and 20941). The Japanese label classifies them as a “stainless steel portable vacuum bottle” (ステンレス製携帯用魔法瓶), and the Japanese specs match the US ones exactly: 65°C vs 69°C hot and 8°C vs 7°C cold after 6 hours, with the same sizes and weights. Prices in Japan are ¥3,300 and ¥3,520 including tax for the standard colors.

    KINTO Japan also offers three colors that we didn’t find at KINTO USA: Sand White, Terracotta Brown and Slate Black (¥3,630 and ¥3,850). On May 1, 2024, KINTO Japan announced the lid update, saying the new lid would be easier to open and close and the rings easier to remove and attach. Its Japanese care guide adds a practical tip: the small ring is for the top lid, the large ring is for the drinking cap, and for new B-type parts the tab should face out.

    Spec Travel Tumbler 350ml (Japan) Travel Tumbler 500ml (Japan)
    Official name in Japan トラベルタンブラー 350ml トラベルタンブラー 500ml
    Product type (Japanese label) Stainless steel portable vacuum bottle (ステンレス製携帯用魔法瓶) Same
    Heat @ 6 hrs 65°C or above 69°C or above
    Cold @ 6 hrs 8°C or below 7°C or below
    Size / weight φ70 x H170 mm, about 245 g φ74 x H197 mm, about 310 g
    Price, standard colors (tax incl.) ¥3,300 ¥3,520
    Price, Sand White / Terracotta Brown / Slate Black ¥3,630 ¥3,850
    Matching strap (KINTO Japan chart) 70 mm A 75 mm B
    Replacement silicone rings (B type) S: φ40 mm, L: φ50 mm S: φ45 mm, L: φ55 mm (shared with Day Off Tumbler 500ml)

    Japanese specs and prices from KINTO Japan (kinto.co.jp), checked October 2026. Temperature conversions are ours.

    Japanese reviewers on blogs and Amazon Japan most often praise the design, heat retention and wide opening (one blogger says an ordinary sponge reaches the bottom), as well as the smooth rim and the cap that lets drinks out in a steady, controlled flow. One blogger who chose the 500ml noted that drinks rarely drip from the lid when it is opened. On leaks, owners are split: many report none, while others report leaks, which bloggers usually trace to rings fitted the wrong way or a lid closed at an angle, matching KINTO’s own advice. Recurring small complaints are that opening the top lid can loosen the drinking cap with it and that the grooves under the cap take care to clean. On size, one Amazon Japan reviewer said the 350ml doesn’t last a full day, one blogger mentions buyers who found the 350ml too small and added a 500ml, and another suggests the 500ml for the office or home and the 350ml for carrying. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml vs 500ml: Frequently Asked Questions

    Should I get the KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml or 500ml?

    For most people, the 500ml. At KINTO USA it costs only $2.60 more ($36.80 vs $34.20), holds about 43% more, and KINTO rates it slightly better: 69°C (156°F) vs 65°C (149°F) hot and 7°C (45°F) vs 8°C (46°F) cold after 6 hours. The 350ml makes more sense if you mainly carry one 8–10 oz coffee, have a small bag, or want the lightest option (about 245 g vs 310 g).

    Is the KINTO Travel Tumbler dishwasher safe?

    No. KINTO’s US product pages and the instruction sheet say not to use it in a microwave, oven or dishwasher, and not to put it in boiling water. Hand wash it, don’t leave it soaking, and don’t use abrasive cleansers, steel wool or chlorine bleach. For rust-like spots inside, KINTO suggests warm water with citric acid (10:1) for 2–3 hours, then a soft sponge.

    Is the KINTO Travel Tumbler leak-proof?

    KINTO USA lists it as leak-proof, but only when it is assembled and closed correctly. KINTO’s own support pages say leaks usually come from silicone rings fitted the wrong way, a lid that closed at an angle, or worn rings. Turn the lid counterclockwise until you feel a click, then tighten it so it sits level, and carry the tumbler upright.

    How hot does the KINTO Travel Tumbler keep coffee?

    KINTO rates the 350ml at 65°C (149°F) or above and the 500ml at 69°C (156°F) or above after 6 hours. These numbers start from 95°C (203°F) water in a 20°C (68°F) room, with the lid on. Coffee usually goes in cooler than that, so expect lower real-world temperatures. Preheating the tumbler with a little hot water for 1–2 minutes helps.

    Can I put soda or sparkling water in the KINTO Travel Tumbler?

    No. KINTO’s instructions say not to put carbonated drinks or dry ice in the Travel Tumbler, and KINTO USA’s tumbler line-up marks it as not for carbonated drinks. If you want a KINTO tumbler for sparkling drinks, the same line-up marks the Trail Tumbler 580ml as OK for carbonated drinks.

    Will a 16 oz coffee fit in the 500ml Travel Tumbler?

    Barely. 500 ml is about 16.9 US fl oz, so a full 16 oz drink leaves very little room. KINTO warns not to overfill, because the drink can overflow when you close the cap. The 350 ml (about 11.8 fl oz) is too small for a full 12 oz drink plus headroom; it fits 8–10 oz pours best.

    What is the difference between Type A and Type B lids?

    KINTO updated the Travel Tumbler’s lid, cap and silicone rings: in Japan from May 2024, and KINTO USA says as of January 2025. The new (Type B) lid and cap have a KINTO logo on the underside, and the new rings have a small tab to show which side faces out. Type A and Type B parts don’t mix. KINTO USA sells new lids ($15) that include the updated rings, and B-type rings alone ($2.50).

    Check current listings

    Prices and colors change often, and Amazon listings sometimes mix the two sizes or other KINTO tumblers (Day Off, To Go, Trail) into one page, so check for “Travel Tumbler” and “350ml” or “500ml” in the listing before you buy.

    Check price: KINTO Travel Tumbler 350ml
    Check price: KINTO Travel Tumbler 500ml

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. We found no recalls for KINTO products in the U.S. CPSC recall database when we checked. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • Zojirushi SW-LA52H vs SW-KA52H: Which 18 oz Food Jar?

    Zojirushi SW-LA52H vs SW-KA52H: Which 18 oz Food Jar?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: For most people, get the Zojirushi SW-LA52H. It is the newer 18 oz food jar, Zojirushi rates it 7°F warmer after 6 hours (160°F vs 153°F), and its manual allows a home dishwasher. The SW-KA52H manual says hand wash only. Both hold 18 oz, weigh 13 oz, have the same 2-7/8 in mouth, and cost $39.99 at Zojirushi’s US store. Pick the SW-KA52H only if you prefer its colors or find it cheaper.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official Zojirushi pages and documents (starting with Zojirushi’s SW-LA52H page and SW-KA52H page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Zojirushi SW-LA52H
    Check price: Zojirushi SW-KA52H

    The SW-KA is the food jar many Zojirushi fans already own. The SW-LA replaced it in Japan in September 2025, and Zojirushi’s US store now sells both side by side at the same price. In the 18 oz size, the two jars are almost the same size and weight, so the real differences are heat retention, cleaning and color.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Zojirushi SW-LA52H (newer) Zojirushi SW-KA52H
    Capacity 18 oz / 0.52 L 18 oz / 0.52 L
    Heat retention @ 6 hrs* 160°F (about 71°C) 153°F (about 67°C)
    Cold retention @ 6 hrs* 48°F (about 9°C) 48°F (about 9°C)
    Dimensions (W x D x H) 3-3/4 x 3-3/4 x 5-3/4 in (about 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.6 cm) 3-7/8 x 3-7/8 x 5-3/4 in (about 9.8 x 9.8 x 14.6 cm)
    Weight 0 lb 13 oz (about 369 g) 0 lb 13 oz (about 369 g)
    Mouth opening 2-7/8 in (about 7.3 cm) 2-7/8 in (about 7.3 cm)
    Heat-keeping design “Thermo-ring” structure near the mouth Lid with built-in insulating chambers
    Stopper One-piece stopper, gasket built in One-piece stopper, gasket built in
    Dishwasher Yes (manual: home dishwasher OK, hand wash recommended for long life) No (manual: do not use a dishwasher or dish dryer)
    Inside finish SlickSteel polished interior (Zojirushi says it resists corrosion and repels stains) 18/8 stainless steel (Zojirushi Japan calls it “Tsuru-tsuru Clear Stainless”)
    Colors (Zojirushi US) Stainless, Powdery Pink, Cloud Gray, Ecru Beige Vintage Rose, Ice Gray, Medium Gray
    Zojirushi US store price $39.99 $39.99
    Warranty 5 years on vacuum insulation 5 years on vacuum insulation
    Made in Thailand Thailand

    *Zojirushi measures heat retention starting with 203°F (95°C) water and cold retention starting with 40°F (4°C) water, both in a 68°F (20°C) room. Specs, prices and warranty terms are from Zojirushi’s US online store; dishwasher rules are from each model’s English instruction manual. Metric conversions are ours. Zojirushi lists weights in pounds and ounces (0.13 = 0 lb 13 oz). Checked October 2026.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Heat retention: The SW-LA52H is rated 160°F after 6 hours, vs 153°F for the SW-KA52H. Cold ratings are the same (48°F).
    • Dishwasher: The SW-LA52H manual allows a home dishwasher. The SW-KA52H manual says not to use one.
    • Design approach: The SW-LA52H uses a “Thermo-ring” structure to cut heat loss at the mouth. The SW-KA52H uses insulating chambers inside the lid.
    • Width: The SW-LA52H is 1/8 in slimmer (3-3/4 vs 3-7/8 in). Height and weight are the same.
    • What stays the same: 18 oz capacity, $39.99 at Zojirushi US, 2-7/8 in mouth, a one-piece stopper with a built-in gasket, a 5-year insulation warranty, and manufacture in Thailand.

    1. Heat and Cold Retention

    This is the main reason the SW-LA exists. Zojirushi tests both jars the same way, so the numbers compare directly:

    • Hot after 6 hours: 160°F (SW-LA52H) vs 153°F (SW-KA52H)
    • Cold after 6 hours: 48°F vs 48°F

    Why does 7°F matter? In its Japanese launch announcement, Zojirushi said 60–70°C (140–158°F) is the usual guideline for soup that is pleasant to eat, and admitted that its smallest SW-KA (0.3 L) dropped below 60°C after 6 hours in its own test. That gap is what the SW-LA was designed to close. In the 18 oz size, both jars are rated above that range on paper, but those ratings start with near-boiling water. Real soup is usually cooler when it goes in, so the SW-LA52H’s extra margin is most useful when you pack lunch early and eat late.

    The two jars keep heat in different ways. Zojirushi Japan explains that much of the heat in a vacuum jar escapes through the metal at the mouth, and that the SW-LA’s “Thermo-ring” structure uses a thinner, yet strong, inner wall near the mouth to reduce that loss. Zojirushi describes the SW-KA’s approach as a “Therma Chamber” lid with small chambers inside that limit air movement and heat loss through the top. One detail can confuse shoppers: the US SW-KA52H page still calls it the jar “with the highest heat retention in Zojirushi history,” even though Zojirushi now rates the SW-LA52H higher in the same size.

    2. Cleaning and the Dishwasher

    Both jars use Zojirushi’s one-piece stopper, with the gasket built into the stopper. In both manuals, the gasket is not removable, so there is no separate ring to pull out, lose or forget. Each lid set is just two parts: the lid and the stopper.

    The difference is the dishwasher. The SW-LA52H/75H manual allows a home dishwasher with a few rules: take the lid set apart first, don’t use a commercial dishwasher or a dish dryer, don’t let the lid or stopper fall onto the heating element, and don’t press the jar hard against the rack. It still says “Hand wash is recommended for extended use.” The SW-KA52H/75H manual is simpler: do not boil the jar, and do not use a dishwasher or dish dryer.

    Both manuals say not to use bleach or abrasive cleaners, and both suggest hot water with 10% vinegar for 30 minutes to an hour if rust spots appear inside. Zojirushi’s US page calls the SW-LA52H’s inside a “SlickSteel” polished interior. Zojirushi Japan says this finish (ラクリア加工＋) resists corrosion and makes stains easier to wash off.

    3. Size, Mouth and Weight

    These two jars are almost twins. Both are 5-3/4 inches tall, weigh 13 oz empty and have a 2-7/8 inch (about 7 cm) mouth, wide enough to pour soup in with a ladle. The SW-LA52H is listed as 3-3/4 inches across, vs 3-7/8 inches for the SW-KA52H. That 1/8 inch rarely matters, unless a lunch bag pocket is already tight.

    Both jars have a lid designed to release pressure when you open it. The SW-KA52H manual says the jar has a raised maximum fill line inside. The SW-LA52H manual says to fill only to the fill level and leave a bit of space below the rim. Don’t overfill either one, because it can cause leaks and lower the heat rating.

    4. Colors and Price

    Both are $39.99 at Zojirushi’s US store, and every color of both was in stock when we checked. The SW-LA52H comes in Stainless, Powdery Pink, Cloud Gray and Ecru Beige. The SW-KA52H comes in Vintage Rose, Ice Gray and Medium Gray, with a matte finish. Zojirushi also sells an SW-KA52 (no “H”) in Matte Green or Beige with the same listed specs; when we checked, Beige was in stock and Matte Green was not.

    Because the price is the same at Zojirushi, the deciding factor on Amazon is often whichever listing is cheaper that day. If the SW-KA52H is clearly cheaper and you don’t need a dishwasher, it is still a strong 18 oz jar.

    5. What Not to Put in Either Jar

    The two manuals share the same food-safety rules:

    • Never add dry ice, carbonated drinks, or perishable fresh foods such as uncooked meat, seafood, dairy products or eggs.
    • Cook (heat) cold soups and foods containing dairy all the way through before packing them.
    • Eat the food within 6 hours and finish it in one sitting.
    • Don’t heat the jar in a microwave, and don’t carry it by the lid set.
    • If the lid is hard to open, don’t heat the jar from the outside; open it upright with a rubber glove or other non-slip material.

    Other Sizes in Each Line

    Model Capacity Height Weight Heat @ 6 hrs* Cold @ 6 hrs* Zojirushi US price
    SW-LA30 10 oz / 0.30 L 4-3/8 in 0 lb 11 oz 144°F 50°F $36.99
    SW-LA40 14 oz / 0.40 L 5 in 0 lb 12 oz 153°F 48°F $38.99
    SW-LA52H 18 oz / 0.52 L 5-3/4 in 0 lb 13 oz 160°F 48°F $39.99
    SW-KA52H 18 oz / 0.52 L 5-3/4 in 0 lb 13 oz 153°F 48°F $39.99
    SW-LA75H 25 oz / 0.75 L 7-1/4 in 1 lb 0 oz 165°F 48°F $42.99
    SW-KA75H 25 oz / 0.75 L 7-1/4 in 0 lb 15 oz 163°F 46°F $42.99

    *Same test conditions as above. Specs and prices from Zojirushi’s US online store, October 2026. For smaller jars, see our SW-LA30 vs SW-LA40 comparison and SW-LA40 vs SW-KA40 comparison.

    Need more food? The 25 oz SW-LA75H is $42.99. It is 7-1/4 inches tall, weighs 1 lb and is rated 165°F after 6 hours. Check the Zojirushi SW-LA75H on Amazon. The 25 oz SW-KA75H is also $42.99 and is rated 163°F.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Zojirushi SW-LA52H if you:

    • Pack lunch early and eat late, and want the warmer 6-hour rating (160°F)
    • Want to put the jar and lid in a home dishwasher
    • Like Stainless, Powdery Pink, Cloud Gray or Ecru Beige
    • Want the newer design that Zojirushi Japan now sells as its current model

    Choose the Zojirushi SW-KA52H if you:

    • Always hand wash anyway
    • Prefer Vintage Rose, Ice Gray or Medium Gray, or a matte finish
    • Find it noticeably cheaper than the SW-LA52H
    • Eat within a few hours, so a 7°F gap after 6 hours won’t matter

    A View from Japan

    In Japan, these jars are sold as the SW-LA52 and SW-KA52, without the “H.” Zojirushi Japan launched the SW-LA line on September 1, 2025, in 0.3, 0.4 and 0.52 L sizes. In its launch announcement, Zojirushi said that 93% of SW-KA owners in a 2022 survey (1,762 people) were satisfied with its heat and cold retention, but some said they wished it were a little warmer. It then added the Thermo-ring structure and made the jar dishwasher safe, which owners of the hand-wash-only SW-KA could not do.

    The Japanese ratings match the US ones: 71°C (160°F) vs 67°C (153°F) after 6 hours, and 9°C (48°F) cold for both. Zojirushi Japan lists both jars at about 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.5 cm, with the SW-LA52 slightly lighter (about 0.34 kg vs 0.36 kg). Zojirushi Japan also sells a matching insulated pouch, the SW-PC, launched in September 2025; its M size is for 0.35–0.55 L jars.

    Spec SW-LA52 (Japan) SW-KA52 (Japan)
    Launched in Japan September 1, 2025 Earlier model (Zojirushi calls it the “previous model”)
    Capacity 0.52 L 0.52 L
    Heat @ 6 hrs 71°C (160°F) or above 67°C (153°F) or above
    Cold @ 6 hrs 9°C (48°F) or below 9°C (48°F) or below
    Size (W x D x H) About 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.5 cm About 9.5 x 9.5 x 14.5 cm
    Weight About 0.34 kg About 0.36 kg
    Dishwasher Yes, body and lid set No (body fully washable by hand)
    Japanese colors Ecru Beige, Cloud Gray Matte Green, Beige
    Price Open price; ¥4,378 at Zojirushi Direct ¥7,150 suggested; ¥4,158 at Zojirushi Direct (marked as a special sale)

    Japanese specs from Zojirushi Japan (zojirushi.co.jp); prices from Zojirushi Direct, Zojirushi’s official Japanese store, checked October 2026. Zojirushi measures Japanese heat ratings from 95°C water in a 20°C room. Temperature conversions are ours. Japanese and US weights are rounded differently, so small gaps are expected.

    Japanese reviewers of the SW-LA52 on Zojirushi Direct most often praise how easy it is to clean, pointing to the dishwasher-safe parts and the small number of pieces. One owner filled it with miso soup with vegetables at 6:20 a.m. and said it was still hot at 12:40 p.m., using Zojirushi’s pouch. Another said it looks compact for a jar that holds a bowl-sized meal. The complaints are specific: one owner with small hands found the lid hard to open and wished it clicked when fully closed, and another wanted a wider mouth to add chunky ingredients. Reviewers of the SW-KA52 also praise its heat retention and easy-to-wash one-piece stopper. One owner said rice porridge packed at 6:30 a.m. was still piping hot at noon after preheating the jar with boiling water. Another took off a star after learning about the usage limits, such as no dairy. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Zojirushi SW-LA52H vs SW-KA52H: Frequently Asked Questions

    Is the Zojirushi SW-LA52H better than the SW-KA52H?

    On paper, yes, for most people. At the same $39.99 price, the SW-LA52H is rated 7°F warmer after 6 hours (160°F vs 153°F), and its manual allows a home dishwasher, while the SW-KA52H manual says not to use one. Capacity, height, weight, mouth size and cold rating are the same. Choose the SW-KA52H mainly if you prefer one of its colors (Vintage Rose, Ice Gray or Medium Gray).

    Is the Zojirushi SW-KA52H dishwasher safe?

    No. Zojirushi’s English manual for the SW-KA52H/75H says not to boil the jar or use a dishwasher or dish dryer, and not to use bleach. Wash it by hand with mild dish soap and a soft sponge. The SW-LA52H manual does allow a home dishwasher (not a commercial one or a dish dryer), though it still says hand washing is recommended for extended use.

    How hot does the SW-LA52H keep soup?

    Zojirushi rates the SW-LA52H at 160°F (about 71°C) after 6 hours, starting with 203°F (95°C) water in a 68°F (20°C) room. Real food starts cooler than boiling water, so expect lower numbers. Zojirushi Japan cites 60–70°C (140–158°F) as the usual guideline for a good soup-eating temperature.

    What is the difference between the SW-KA52 and SW-KA52H?

    Zojirushi’s US store lists the same specs for both (18 oz, 153°F after 6 hours, 48°F cold, 0 lb 13 oz). They differ in colors: the SW-KA52 in Matte Green or Beige, the SW-KA52H in Vintage Rose, Ice Gray or Medium Gray. When we checked, the Beige SW-KA52 was in stock and Matte Green was not. Zojirushi doesn’t explain what the H suffix means.

    What can’t you put in a Zojirushi food jar?

    Both manuals say never to fill the jar with dry ice or carbonated drinks, or with perishable fresh foods such as uncooked meat, seafood, dairy products or eggs. Cold soups and foods containing dairy must be cooked (heated) through first. Don’t heat the jar in a microwave, don’t overfill it, and eat the food within 6 hours.

    Is there a bigger version of each jar?

    Yes. The 25 oz SW-LA75H and SW-KA75H are both $42.99 at Zojirushi’s US store. Zojirushi rates the SW-LA75H at 165°F after 6 hours and the SW-KA75H at 163°F. The SW-KA75H is 1 oz lighter (15 oz vs 1 lb) and has a slightly better cold rating (46°F vs 48°F).

    Is the SW-LA52H sold in Japan?

    Not under that exact number. Zojirushi Japan sells the SW-LA52 (0.52 L), launched on September 1, 2025, with the same 6-hour rating of 71°C (160°F) and the same 7 cm mouth. Japan’s SW-LA line stops at 0.52 L; the 25 oz (0.75 L) size appears on Zojirushi’s US store.

    Check current listings

    Prices and colors change often, and Zojirushi’s food jar model numbers look alike, so check for “LA52H” or “KA52H” and the 18 oz size in the listing before you buy. For the 25 oz version, search for the Zojirushi SW-LA75H.

    Check price: Zojirushi SW-LA52H
    Check price: Zojirushi SW-KA52H

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • Zojirushi SM-QHE48 vs SM-KHE48: Is the Handle Worth It?

    Zojirushi SM-QHE48 vs SM-KHE48: Is the Handle Worth It?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the Zojirushi SM-QHE48 Flip-and-Go if you carry your mug by hand. It has a folding handle, and Zojirushi rates it a little warmer after 6 hours (160°F vs 154°F). Get the SM-KHE48 if your mug lives in a bag pocket or cup holder. It is narrower without a handle, 1 oz lighter, and comes in more colors. Both hold 16 oz and cost $39.99 at Zojirushi’s US store, so the handle is the whole decision.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official Zojirushi pages and documents (starting with Zojirushi’s SM-QHE48 page and SM-KHE48 page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Zojirushi SM-QHE48 (Flip-and-Go)
    Check price: Zojirushi SM-KHE48

    The SM-KHE48 is Zojirushi’s classic 16 oz flip-lid travel mug. The SM-QHE48, sold as the “Flip-and-Go,” keeps the same capacity and price and adds a carry handle that folds flat. Here is what else changes.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Zojirushi SM-QHE48 (Flip-and-Go) Zojirushi SM-KHE48
    Capacity 16 oz / 0.48 L 16 oz / 0.48 L
    Carry handle Yes, folds down flat No
    Dimensions (W x D x H) 2-7/8 x 3-1/4 x 8-5/8 in (7.3 x 8.3 x 21.9 cm) 2-5/8 x 2-7/8 x 9-1/8 in (6.7 x 7.3 x 23.2 cm)
    Weight 0 lb 10 oz (about 283 g) 0 lb 9 oz (about 255 g)
    Heat retention* 189°F @ 1 hr / 160°F @ 6 hrs 187°F @ 1 hr / 154°F @ 6 hrs
    Cold retention* 46°F @ 6 hrs 48°F @ 6 hrs
    Mouth opening 1-5/8 in (4 cm) Not listed
    Lid One-touch flip-open lid with lock, 2-step release (limits condensation spray) Flip-open lid with safety lock
    Colors (Zojirushi US) Cobalt Blue, Hibiscus Red, Teal, Purple Dusk Smoky Blue, Champagne Gold, Black, Lavender Pink, Stainless, Deep Cherry, Emerald
    Zojirushi US store price $39.99 (listed regular price $61.50) $39.99
    Replacement stopper set $11.70 (SM-QHE/TA/TAE) $11.25 (SM-KA/KB/KC/KHE)
    Warranty 5 years on vacuum insulation (US and Canada) 5 years on vacuum insulation (US and Canada)
    Made in Thailand Thailand

    *Zojirushi measures heat retention starting with 203°F (95°C) water and cold retention starting with 40°F (4°C) water, both in a 68°F (20°C) room. Specs, prices, parts and warranty terms are from Zojirushi’s US online store. Metric conversions are ours. Zojirushi lists weights in pounds and ounces (0.10 = 0 lb 10 oz). The SM-QHE48 was marked down from a listed regular price of $61.50 when we checked, so its price may change. Checked October 2026.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Handle: The SM-QHE48 has a folding carry handle. The SM-KHE48 has none.
    • Heat and cold: The SM-QHE48 is rated 6°F warmer after 6 hours (160°F vs 154°F) and 2°F colder (46°F vs 48°F).
    • Shape: The SM-QHE48 is half an inch shorter (8-5/8 vs 9-1/8 in) but wider and deeper with its handle (2-7/8 x 3-1/4 in vs 2-5/8 x 2-7/8 in).
    • Weight: The SM-QHE48 weighs 1 oz more (10 oz vs 9 oz).
    • What stays the same: 16 oz capacity, $39.99 at Zojirushi US, a locking flip-open lid, a 5-year insulation warranty, and manufacture in Thailand.

    1. The Folding Handle

    This is the reason the SM-QHE48 exists. Zojirushi says the Flip-and-Go handle is designed for a comfortable hold, folds down when you drink, and stores flat when you don’t need it. Zojirushi’s US store doesn’t post a manual, but Zojirushi publishes an English SM-Q series instruction manual for the SM-QAF48/60, a closely matching handle mug sold in Asia (see A View from Japan below). In its diagram, the handle is attached to the main body of the mug, not to the lid.

    The same manual has two handle rules worth knowing: don’t swing the mug around by the handle, and don’t carry it by the lid. The SM-KHE48 has no handle, so you carry it in your hand, a bag or a cup holder.

    2. Lid and One-Hand Use

    Both mugs have a flip-open lid with a lock, so neither one pops open in a bag. Zojirushi describes the SM-QHE48’s lid in more detail. You can unlock, open, drink, close and lock it with one hand, even while wearing gloves. A 2-step release keeps condensation on the stopper from being flung off as the lid opens. The SM-Q manual describes the steps: slide the lock open, push the button, and the lid opens slightly before it opens fully. To close it, press it down until it clicks.

    For the SM-KHE48, Zojirushi lists a tight-fitting flip-open lid and a safety lock that keeps the lid from opening by accident.

    3. Heat and Cold Retention

    Zojirushi tests both mugs the same way, so the numbers compare directly:

    • After 1 hour: 189°F (SM-QHE48) vs 187°F (SM-KHE48)
    • After 6 hours: 160°F vs 154°F
    • Cold after 6 hours: 46°F vs 48°F

    A 6°F gap after 6 hours is real but small. If you finish your coffee during the commute, you won’t notice much difference. It matters more if you fill the mug at 7 a.m. and drink from it after lunch.

    4. Size, Weight and Cup Holders

    The SM-QHE48 is shorter (8-5/8 in vs 9-1/8 in), which can help under a low car console lid or in a short bag pocket. But Zojirushi lists it as 2-7/8 x 3-1/4 inches across, compared with 2-5/8 x 2-7/8 inches for the SM-KHE48. Zojirushi doesn’t say how much of that extra width and depth comes from the folded handle, and it doesn’t publish a separate body diameter. If you have a tight cup holder or a narrow bag pocket, the slimmer SM-KHE48 is the safer choice.

    The SM-QHE48 also weighs 10 oz empty, versus 9 oz for the SM-KHE48. That is about the weight of five US quarters.

    5. Colors, Parts and Price

    Both are $39.99 at Zojirushi’s US store. The SM-QHE48 was marked down from a listed regular price of $61.50, so if that sale ends, the SM-KHE48 could become the cheaper mug. The SM-KHE48 comes in seven colors, versus four for the SM-QHE48.

    Replacement parts cost about the same: $11.70 for the SM-QHE stopper set (shown as out of stock when we checked) and $11.25 for the SM-KHE stopper set. Gaskets for both are about $9.

    Other Sizes in Each Line

    Model Capacity Height Weight Heat @ 6 hrs* Zojirushi US price
    SM-KHE36 12 oz / 0.36 L 7-3/8 in 0 lb 8 oz 147°F $34.99
    SM-KHE48 16 oz / 0.48 L 9-1/8 in 0 lb 9 oz 154°F $39.99
    SM-QHE48 16 oz / 0.48 L 8-5/8 in 0 lb 10 oz 160°F $39.99
    SM-QHE60 20 oz / 0.60 L 10-1/8 in 0 lb 11 oz 163°F $44.99

    Specs and prices from Zojirushi’s US online store, October 2026. For the 12 oz vs 16 oz decision, see our SM-KHE36 vs SM-KHE48 comparison.

    Want a bigger handle mug? The SM-QHE60 holds 20 oz for $44.99. It is 10-1/8 inches tall, weighs 11 oz and is rated 163°F after 6 hours. Check the Zojirushi SM-QHE60 on Amazon.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Zojirushi SM-QHE48 (Flip-and-Go) if you:

    • Carry your mug by hand between home, car and desk
    • Want the warmer 6-hour rating (160°F vs 154°F)
    • Need a shorter mug, and width doesn’t matter
    • Like the idea of one-hand use with gloves on

    Choose the Zojirushi SM-KHE48 if you:

    • Keep the mug in a cup holder or a slim bag pocket
    • Want the lightest option (9 oz)
    • Want a specific color, or the 12 oz SM-KHE36
    • Find a handle just gets in the way

    A View from Japan

    The SM-QHE name doesn’t appear on Zojirushi Japan’s site. Zojirushi Japan does publish a manual for a closely matching handle mug, the SM-QAF48/60, released in 2021 and made in Thailand. Zojirushi Direct, Zojirushi’s official Japanese store, has sold the 0.48 L size as an “overseas-market model” (海外販売モデル) for ¥4,950 including tax. It was sold out when we checked. Its Japanese specs match the SM-QHE48’s US figures almost exactly, and both come in Cobalt Blue (-AK) and Hibiscus Red (-RK). Zojirushi doesn’t say they are the same product, though, so we don’t treat them as one.

    For its home market, Zojirushi’s current handle mug is the SM-RS (0.5 L and 0.65 L), launched in February 2024. It puts the handle on the lid and uses Zojirushi’s “seamless stopper,” which builds the gasket into the stopper, so there are only two parts to wash. Zojirushi Japan says both the body and the lid are dishwasher safe. Zojirushi US doesn’t sell the SM-RS.

    Spec SM-QHE48 (US) SM-QAF48 (Zojirushi Direct, Japan) SM-RS50 (Japan)
    Capacity 0.48 L 0.48 L 0.5 L
    Size (W x D x H) About 7.3 x 8.3 x 21.9 cm About 7 x 8 x 22 cm About 7 x 7 x 22 cm
    Weight 0 lb 10 oz (about 0.28 kg) About 0.28 kg About 0.24 kg
    Heat @ 6 hrs 160°F (about 71°C) 71°C (160°F) or above 71°C (160°F) or above
    Cold @ 6 hrs 46°F (about 8°C) 8°C (46°F) or below 8°C (46°F) or below
    Handle Folding handle Handle Handle on the lid
    Dishwasher Not listed Not listed (the SM-Q manual says no) Yes, body and lid
    Price $39.99 ¥4,950 (sold out when checked) Open price

    Japanese specs from Zojirushi Japan (zojirushi.co.jp) and Zojirushi Direct. Zojirushi measures Japanese heat ratings from 95°C water and cold ratings from 4°C water in a 20°C room, the same starting points as its US ratings. Temperature conversions are ours.

    Japanese reviewers of the SM-RS handle mug, on Zojirushi Direct and on the UNAGISM blog, most often say the handle makes the mug easy to carry and to pull out of a bag. One blogger said they could carry it with one finger while holding a child. Several owners say the lid is easy to open, and one said that is true even with wet hands. Many also praise the dishwasher-safe body and lid and the seamless stopper, with its few parts to wash. The complaints are specific. The same blogger said the removed lid doesn’t sit steadily when you set it down, and that the handle makes the mug taller. After about a year of washing it mostly in the dishwasher, they also found paint wearing off the bottom. One store reviewer noticed a squeak when closing the lid, and another said drinks spilled when pouring into a cup. We found no Japanese owner reviews of the SM-QAF48 itself, so these reviews are about Japan’s domestic handle mug, not the SM-QHE48. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Zojirushi SM-QHE48 vs SM-KHE48: Frequently Asked Questions

    Is the Zojirushi SM-QHE48 better than the SM-KHE48?

    On paper, slightly. For the same $39.99, the SM-QHE48 adds a folding carry handle and has a higher 6-hour heat rating (160°F vs 154°F) and cold rating (46°F vs 48°F). The SM-KHE48 is 1 oz lighter and narrower, and it comes in more colors and in a 12 oz size (SM-KHE36). If you won’t use a handle, the SM-KHE48 gives up very little.

    Does the SM-QHE48 handle fold down?

    Yes. Zojirushi says the Flip-and-Go handle folds down for a comfortable hold and stores flat when you aren’t using it. In Zojirushi’s manual for the SM-Q series, the handle is attached to the main body, not to the lid.

    Which keeps coffee hotter, the SM-QHE48 or the SM-KHE48?

    Zojirushi rates the SM-QHE48 at 160°F after 6 hours and the SM-KHE48 at 154°F, both starting with 203°F water in a 68°F room. After 1 hour, the ratings are 189°F and 187°F.

    Is the Zojirushi SM-QHE48 dishwasher safe?

    Zojirushi’s US product pages don’t say either mug is dishwasher safe. Zojirushi’s English instruction manual for the SM-Q series (written for the Asian-market SM-QAF48/60) says not to boil the mug or put it in a dishwasher or dish dryer, and not to use bleach. Wash it by hand with warm water, mild dish soap and a sponge.

    What should I not put in the SM-QHE48?

    The same SM-Q manual says never to fill it with dry ice or carbonated drinks, salty liquids such as soup, dairy products, fruit juice, or fruit pulp or tea leaves. It also says to break large ice cubes into smaller pieces and to finish drinks the same day.

    Is there a bigger Flip-and-Go mug?

    Yes. The SM-QHE60 holds 20 oz (0.60 L), is 10-1/8 inches tall, weighs 0 lb 11 oz and is rated 163°F after 6 hours. It is $44.99 at Zojirushi’s US store.

    Is the SM-QHE48 sold in Japan?

    Not under that model number. Zojirushi Japan lists a closely matching handle mug, the SM-QAF48/60 (released in 2021 and made in Thailand), as an overseas-market model, and its official Japanese store has sold the 0.48 L version for ¥4,950. Japan’s own handle mug is the SM-RS, which is not sold by Zojirushi US.

    Check current listings

    Prices and colors change often, and Zojirushi’s mug model numbers look alike, so check for “QHE” or “KHE” in the listing before you buy. For the 20 oz handle version, search for the Zojirushi SM-QHE60.

    Check price: Zojirushi SM-QHE48 (Flip-and-Go)
    Check price: Zojirushi SM-KHE48

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.

  • Thermos Icon 16 oz vs 24 oz Food Jar: Which Size to Buy?

    Thermos Icon 16 oz vs 24 oz Food Jar: Which Size to Buy?

    As an Amazon Associate, TidyJapan earns from qualifying purchases. Links marked ‘Check price’ are affiliate links.

    Short answer: Get the 16 oz Icon Food Jar ($29.99 at Thermos) for a normal one-person lunch. It is 6.0 inches tall and weighs 0.75 lb. Get the 24 oz ($32.99) for big appetites or long days. It holds 50% more, and Thermos rates it up to 14 hours hot versus 10. Both are rated up to 24 hours cold and come with a stow-away spoon.

    How we compare: every spec in this article comes from official manufacturer specifications and product pages (starting with Thermos’s official 16 oz Icon Food Jar page and 24 oz page), all listed under Sources below. We don’t run hands-on tests, and if a spec isn’t published, we say so. Last updated: October 2026.

    Check price: Thermos Icon 16 oz Food Jar
    Check price: Thermos Icon 24 oz Food Jar

    I live in Japan, where a soup jar is a normal part of a packed lunch. Thermos US sells its Icon Food Jar in two adult sizes for $3 apart, so the real question is how much food you want to carry.

    I haven’t tested these side by side. Everything below comes from the manufacturers’ official product pages, linked at the end. If a spec isn’t published, I say so instead of guessing.

    Quick Comparison Table

    Spec Thermos Icon 16 oz Food Jar Thermos Icon 24 oz Food Jar
    Capacity 16 oz (475 mL) 24 oz (710 mL)
    Height 6.0 in 7.3 in
    Width x depth 3.9 x 3.9 in 3.9 x 3.9 in
    Weight 0.75 lb 1.0 lb
    Hot rating Up to 10 hours Up to 14 hours
    Cold rating Up to 24 hours Up to 24 hours
    Stopper Dura-Guard pressure relief stopper Dura-Guard pressure relief stopper
    Spoon Full-size stainless Stow-Away spoon Full-size stainless Stow-Away spoon
    Base Griptec non-slip base Griptec non-slip base
    Steel 18/8 BPA-free stainless 18/8 BPA-free stainless
    Dishwasher Top rack only Top rack only
    Thermos list price $29.99 $32.99
    Example item number IS3002GT4 (Granite) IS3012GT4 (Granite)
    Origin China China

    All figures are from Thermos’s US product pages, checked October 2026. Thermos lists the dimensions as plain numbers on US pages; they are inches. List prices are Thermos.com prices, not Amazon prices. Item numbers change with color.

    Key differences at a glance

    • Capacity: The 24 oz jar holds 8 oz more than the 16 oz, or 50% more food.
    • Hot rating: Thermos rates the 24 oz up to 14 hours hot and the 16 oz up to 10, and both up to 24 hours cold.
    • Size: The 24 oz is 1.3 inches taller (7.3 vs 6.0 in) and 0.25 lb heavier, with the same 3.9-inch footprint.
    • Price: Thermos lists the 16 oz at $29.99 and the 24 oz at $32.99.
    • What stays the same: Both have the Dura-Guard pressure relief stopper, a full-size stainless spoon that stores in the stopper, a Griptec non-slip base, 18/8 stainless steel and top-rack dishwasher cleaning.

    The 4 Differences That Matter

    1. How much food

    16 fl oz is two US cups, about one large bowl of soup or chili. 24 fl oz is three cups, enough for a big serving of stew, pasta or oatmeal with toppings. If you usually eat a sandwich on the side, the 16 oz is the natural lunch size.

    2. How long it stays hot

    Thermos rates the 24 oz for up to 14 hours hot and the 16 oz for up to 10. Thermos doesn’t explain the gap, but a larger amount of hot food holds more heat, and Thermos Japan’s own soup jars show the same pattern (see below). In general, a jar keeps food hottest when it is preheated and filled close to the top, so pick the size you will actually fill. For cold food, both are rated up to 24 hours.

    3. Bag fit

    Both are 3.9 inches wide, so the difference is height: 6.0 inches versus 7.3. The 16 oz is easier to stand upright in a small lunch bag. The 24 oz needs a taller bag or a side pocket.

    4. Weight and price

    Empty, the 24 oz weighs 1.0 lb versus 0.75 lb, and it costs $3 more at Thermos. That is a small premium for 50% more capacity and four more rated hours of heat.

    What’s the same

    Both are double-wall vacuum-insulated 18/8 BPA-free stainless jars with a wide mouth, a Dura-Guard pressure relief stopper, a full-size stainless Stow-Away spoon that clips into the stopper, a Griptec non-slip base and a sweat-proof exterior. Thermos lists both as dishwasher safe, top rack only, and recommends preheating with boiling water before filling.

    Who Should Buy Which?

    Choose the Icon 16 oz Food Jar if you:

    • Pack one normal lunch portion
    • Want the shorter, lighter jar
    • Eat within about 10 hours of packing

    Choose the Icon 24 oz Food Jar if you:

    • Eat big portions or share
    • Need food hot for longer days
    • Have a taller lunch bag

    The View from Japan

    In Japan these are called soup jars (スープジャー). Thermos Japan’s newest series, the JEF-300, JEF-400 and JEF-500 launched in August 2025, comes in 0.3, 0.4 and 0.5 L. Thermos Japan rates them at 55 °C, 60 °C and 62 °C or higher after 6 hours, starting from 95 °C water in a 20 °C room. The bigger jar keeps food warmer, the same pattern as the Icon’s 10 versus 14 hours.

    The largest JEF-500 holds 0.5 L, about 17 oz, which is close to the 16 oz Icon. At 710 mL, the 24 oz Icon is larger than any jar in that series. Thermos Japan also makes every JEF part dishwasher safe, with the gasket built into the inner lid, while Thermos US lists the Icon as top rack only. Japanese ratings give a temperature after 6 hours, while Thermos US gives the number of hours, so the two can’t be compared directly.

    Japanese reviewers of the JED-500, a recent 500 mL Thermos Japan soup jar, wrote on Amazon Japan that rice porridge made at 6 a.m. was still piping hot at lunch and that cold udon stayed cold. Netorabo Research summarized these reviews in September 2026. Reviewers also said the wide mouth makes it easy to eat from and to wash by hand, and that the tight seal made them comfortable carrying soup. (Third-party reviews, not our own testing.)

    Comparing the 16 oz with Zojirushi? See Thermos Icon 16 oz vs Zojirushi SW-EAE50.

    Thermos Icon 16 oz vs 24 oz Food Jar: Frequently Asked Questions

    How long does the Thermos Icon 24 oz food jar keep food hot?

    Thermos rates the 24 oz Icon Food Jar for up to 14 hours hot and up to 24 hours cold. The 16 oz is rated up to 10 hours hot and 24 hours cold.

    How much food does the 16 oz Icon hold?

    16 fl oz (475 mL), or two US cups, about one large bowl of soup.

    Do both sizes come with a spoon?

    Yes. Thermos lists a full-size stainless Stow-Away spoon that fits in the stopper on both sizes.

    Are Icon food jars dishwasher safe?

    Thermos lists both sizes as dishwasher safe, top rack only.

    Are Icon food jars part of the Stainless King recall?

    No. The April 30, 2026 recall covers Stainless King food jars SK3000 (16 oz) and SK3020 (24 oz) made before July 2023 without a pressure-relief stopper, plus Sportsman SK3010 bottles. Icon food jars are not on the recall list.

    Should I preheat an Icon food jar?

    Yes. Thermos recommends preheating with boiling water before filling for best results.

    Check current listings

    Prices and colors change often, so check the current listing before buying.

    Check price: Thermos Icon 16 oz Food Jar
    Check price: Thermos Icon 24 oz Food Jar

    Sources

    Specs checked October 2026. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before buying.