Tumbler vs coffee mug what's the difference

DISCOVER IF A TUMBLER OR TRAVEL MUG IS BEST FOR YOU

There are endless examples of the same word describing two different things, or two different words describing the same thing; even just writing that sentence was confusing enough.

But in the vast sea of homonyms, the terms 'tumbler', 'coffee mug', 'travel mug', and variations of the three are some of the most common examples of this - and we're here to fix that.

Set the record straight and learn the difference between a travel mug and tumbler to finally discover which one is best for you.

DEFINING A TRAVEL MUG AND TUMBLER

Before we get started, let's clearly define what a travel mug is and what a tumbler is. If you already know, click here to skip to their differences.

WHAT IS A TRAVEL MUG?

Also known as a travel coffee mug, a travel mug is a 12oz to 16oz container made for drinking hot beverages on the go, such as coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. They are typically insulated, made of 18/8 steel, and are characterized by screw on lids and attached handle.

WHAT IS A STAINLESS STEEL TUMBLER?

Also known as travel tumblers or insulated tumblers, stainless steel tumblers range from 20oz to 40oz and are best for both hot and cold beverages. They are usually double walled vacuum insulated, made of stainless steel, and are characterized by either straight sides or sides that taper down.

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRAVEL MUG AND A TUMBLER?

Generally, there are four ways you can tell the difference between a tumbler and a stainless steel mug by looking at the handle, shape, size, and lid; a travel mug is smaller with straight edges and has screw on leak resistant lids with an attached handle. A tumbler on the other hand is taller with tapered edges, does not have a built-in handle, and features a splash proof press on lid.

Let's go a bit deeper into these four defining characteristics:

HANDLE

Most reusable travel coffee mugs have a handle built right into their lids for easy on-the-go transportation and access.

On the other hand, tumblers are completely handle less and do not have a handle built in, but there are options to purchase a handle that slides on in order to convert it into a travel mug.

SHAPE

Travel mugs tend to have straight sides and are shorter than tumblers; tumblers however are taller and have a wider opening that taper down to a more narrow base.

SIZE

Many styles of travel mugs come in 12oz and 16oz sizes, but generally do not go above 16oz. Some tumblers may have 16oz options, but they are most commonly available in 20oz, 30oz, and 40oz options.

LID

Finally, travel mugs generally feature specially designed leak resistant lids that are screwed on and secured by a rubber grip. As mentioned above, there is also a handle attached to the screw on lid.

Conversely, tumblers are characterized by a push- or snap-on splash proof lid with a larger opening to allow for sipping out of straws; some tumblers even come with a built in straw.