Red Bull Can Dimensions: A Complete Guide To Red Bull Can Sizes, With Height, Length, & Diameter

Have you ever grabbed a Red Bull and wondered why some cans are taller, slimmer, or wider than others?

It might seem like just a design choice, but the can’s dimensions—its height, diameter, and overall shape—affect everything from how it fits in your hand to how much caffeine you consume.

This guide will walk you through every can size Red Bull makes, the exact measurements, why they differ, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

By the end, you’ll understand more than just “how big is a Red Bull can.” You’ll know why it’s made that way.

Step 1: Understand the Basics — What Are Can Dimensions?

Before diving into numbers, let’s define a few key terms:

• Volume: The total liquid a can holds (e.g., 250 ml, 355 ml).
• Height (or Length): The distance from the base to the top of the can.
• Diameter: The width across the circular face of the can.

When people talk about “length” in this context, they almost always mean height. The shape of the can—tall and slim or short and wide—depends on how the manufacturer balances these measurements to hold a specific volume.

Step 2: Explore the Main Red Bull Can Sizes and Their Dimensions

Here’s a full breakdown of the most common Red Bull can sizes and their measurements. Dimensions may vary slightly by country, but these are reliable averages.

Tip: Always allow a few millimeters of variation — manufacturing and regional differences can slightly change the exact height or width.

Step 3: Understand Why Red Bull Uses Different Sizes

Red Bull doesn’t choose sizes randomly. Every dimension serves a purpose.

a. Slim, Tall Cans (250 ml)

• Easier to hold and carry.
• Stronger brand identity—people instantly recognize the “slim” look.
• More efficient use of aluminum (less material for the same volume).

b. Larger Cans (355 ml to 591 ml)

• Cater to markets like the U.S., where consumers prefer bigger servings.
• Offer better cost-per-milliliter value.
• Useful for people who want longer-lasting energy.

c. Regional Preferences

Different countries have different size trends:

• Europe & Asia: 250 ml standard.
• North America: 355 ml, 473 ml, and sometimes 591 ml.

Step 4: How to Measure a Can Yourself

If you ever need precise measurements (for 3D design, packaging, or retail displays), follow these steps:

• Grab a ruler or caliper — a caliper gives the most accurate diameter.
• Measure the height from the very bottom to the top (exclude the pull tab unless needed).
• Measure the diameter across the widest point of the body (not the rim).
• Double-check in millimeters or inches depending on your project.
• Repeat the measurement on a few cans if accuracy matters—tiny differences can occur between batches.

Common mistake: Don’t include the rim when measuring the diameter—it can make the can seem wider than it is.

Step 5: Real-Life Examples Where Can Size Matters

Here’s how these measurements play out in everyday life:

• Cup Holders: Slim cans fit most holders easily. Larger 16–20 oz cans can be too wide.
• Fridge & Cooler Space: Smaller cans take up less room, making them easier to stack.
• Travel: 250 ml cans are lightweight and ideal for on-the-go energy boosts.
• Graphic Design / 3D Models: Designers need exact height and diameter to create realistic renderings or packaging prototypes.

Even subtle differences in size can affect fit, visual balance, or usability.

Step 6: Common Mistakes People Make About Red Bull Can Dimensions

1. Assuming all cans are the same size.
   Not true — even the same “volume” can vary slightly by region.

2. Forgetting the diameter.
   Height matters, but width often determines fit (like in coolers or holders).

3. Measuring inconsistently.
   Including the rim or tab gives inaccurate readings.

4. Ignoring special editions.
   Some limited-edition Red Bull flavors may use unique packaging.

Step 7: Choosing the Right Can Size for You

Here’s a simple guide to help you decide:

• For convenience: 250 ml (slim can) — best portability, easy to finish in one go.
• For longer energy sessions: 355 ml or 473 ml — ideal for travel, study, or sports.
• For maximum value: 591 ml — good if you don’t mind a larger serving.
• For design or display projects: Always measure your actual can; don’t rely on online averages.

If you’re creating holders, vending layouts, or shelves, add 2–3 mm of extra space around each can for easy handling.

Step 8: Industry Trends and Packaging Insights

• Sustainability Focus: Red Bull and other beverage companies continue optimizing aluminum usage. Slim cans reduce waste and shipping weight.
• Regional Customization: Expect more variety in can sizes based on local market preferences.
• Health & Moderation Trends: Some regions are seeing a return to smaller cans to limit sugar and caffeine intake.
• Brand Consistency: Despite larger variants, Red Bull’s tall, slim can remains its global visual signature.

Step 9: FAQs — Quick Answers to Common Questions

Q1: Are all Red Bull cans the same width?
No. Slim cans (250 ml) are around 53 mm wide; larger ones (355–473 ml) are closer to 66 mm.

Q2: Why do some people say “length” instead of “height”?
It’s just casual phrasing — for cans, both mean the same thing.

Q3: Does the 20 oz Red Bull exist everywhere?
No, it’s mostly sold in North America. Other regions may stop at 473 ml.

Q4: How accurate are can measurements?
Expect ±1–2 mm differences from batch to batch. That’s completely normal.

Q5: Are there mini Red Bull cans?
Yes. Some regions offer 190 ml or “shot” versions — shorter, same diameter as the slim 250 ml.

Step 10: Wrap-Up — What You’ve Learned

By now, you’ve learned that Red Bull cans aren’t all the same.
Their height, diameter, and design vary depending on:

• Market demand
• Branding choices
• Material efficiency
• Consumer preference

In short:

• 250 ml (8.4 oz) – 13.3 cm tall, 53 mm wide — the classic look.
• 355 ml (12 oz) – 15.8 cm tall, 66 mm wide — standard U.S. size.
• 473 ml (16 oz) – 18 cm tall, 66 mm wide — tall and satisfying.
• 591 ml (20 oz) – 19.5 cm tall, 73–75 mm wide — largest available.

If you need exact sizing for packaging, 3D models, or design projects, always measure your own can and allow for a small margin of error.

Final Step

If you’re a designer, collector, or retailer, grab a few cans and record their actual dimensions — this ensures accuracy for your work.

If you’re just a curious consumer, try comparing can sizes side by side next time you’re at a store. You’ll notice how subtle differences change the drinking experience and portability.

Understanding Red Bull can dimensions gives you insight into more than measurements — it reveals how design, function, and branding come together in one simple can.