Whether you’re planning a home project or organizing storage space, knowing the exact paint can dimensions is essential. From small sample sizes to large industrial containers, each paint can size serves a specific purpose.
This guide covers everything you need to know about paint can height, diameter, and measurements to help you make the right choice.
Paint Can Dimensions Comparison Chart
Standard Paint Can Sizes (Imperial)
* Dimensions are approximate; always check manufacturer specs for exact fit.
Metric Sizes (for Reference)
* Conversions are approximate; ideal for international projects.
Standard Paint Can Dimensions by Size
1-Gallon Paint Can Dimensions
The 1-gallon paint can is the most popular size for residential projects. The diameter measures approximately 6.5 to 6.6 inches (16.5 to 16.8 cm). The height ranges from 7.5 to 7.75 inches (19 to 19.7 cm).
This size holds 128 fluid ounces of paint, which is enough for most single-room projects. The dimensions make it easy to carry with one hand when using the metal handle. A full gallon can weighs between 10 to 12 pounds depending on paint types.
1-Quart Paint Can Dimensions
A 1-quart paint can measures approximately 4.25 inches in diameter and 5 inches in height. This compact size is perfect for smaller projects and touch-ups. The can holds 32 fluid ounces of paint.
The smaller dimensions make quart cans ideal for storage in tight spaces. They fit easily in cabinets under sinks or in small storage closets. Many homeowners keep several quart cans of different colors for quick repairs.
Half-Gallon Paint Can Dimensions
The half-gallon paint can has a diameter of approximately 5.9 inches and a height of 5.4 inches. This size holds 64 fluid ounces of paint. Notice that the height is actually shorter than you might expect for half the volume.
This unique shape makes half-gallon cans very stable and easy to store. They stack well and take up less vertical space than you’d think. The wider base prevents tipping when the can is
1-Pint Paint Can Dimensions
A 1-pint paint can typically measures around 3.5 inches in diameter and 4 inches in height. The can holds 16 fluid ounces of paint. This is the perfect size for small touch-up jobs around the house.
The compact dimensions make pint cans extremely portable. They fit easily in a toolbox or store drawer. Many people keep pint cans of their wall colors for years for minor repairs.
Half-Pint Paint Can Dimensions
The half-pint paint can measures approximately 2.5 to 3 inches in diameter and 3 to 3.5 inches in height. This tiny size holds 8 fluid ounces of paint. These are often sold as sample sizes at paint shops.
Sample size specifications make these cans perfect for color testing. You can paint large swatches on your wall without spending money on a full pint. The small dimensions mean you can collect multiple color samples without taking up much space.
Metric Paint Can Dimensions and Sizes
1-Liter Paint Can Dimensions
A 1-liter paint can has a diameter of approximately 11 cm and a height of approximately 13 cm. In imperial measurements, that’s about 4.3 inches wide and 5.1 inches tall. The can holds 33.8 fluid ounces.
This size is slightly larger than a quart can. The difference is about 1.8 fluid ounces more in the liter size. Many international paint brands use this as their standard small size.
2.5-Liter Paint Can Dimensions
The 2.5-liter paint can typically measures around 15 cm in diameter and 16 cm in height. That converts to approximately 5.9 inches wide and 6.3 inches tall. This size holds about 84.5 fluid ounces.
Capacity and coverage area fall between a half-gallon and full gallon. This makes it a versatile choice for medium projects. The size is very popular in European markets and is gaining traction in the United States.
Other Metric Paint Can Sizes
250ml tin dimensions are approximately 7 cm in diameter and 8 cm in height. This tiny size holds about 8.5 fluid ounces. It’s perfect for very small projects or color sampling.
500ml tin dimensions measure around 9 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height. The can holds approximately 16.9 fluid ounces. This size bridges the gap between sample sizes and working quantities.
Specialty Paint Container Dimensions
5-Gallon Paint Bucket Dimensions
The 5-gallon paint bucket is the workhorse of professional painting. The diameter typically ranges from 11 to 12 inches. The height measures between 14 to 15 inches. This large container holds 640 fluid ounces of paint.
Industrial and commercial applications make heavy use of 5-gallon buckets. Contractors love them because they eliminate frequent refills. The wide opening makes it easy to load paint rollers directly from the bucket.
5-Quart Paint Can Dimensions
A 5-quart paint can measures approximately 6.5 inches in diameter and 9.5 inches in height. The can holds 160 fluid ounces of paint. This size is taller and narrower than you might expect.
The capacity of 5 quarts equals 1.25 gallons. This makes it a good choice when a gallon isn’t quite enough but 5 gallons is too much. The dimensions allow it to fit in standard paint can shelving and storage systems.
Aerosol Paint Can Dimensions
Aerosol paint cans come in standard sizes familiar to most users. The most common size is about 2.5 inches in diameter and 8 to 9 inches tall. These cans typically hold 12 to 16 ounces of spray paint.
Standard spray can measurements are consistent across most brands. This uniformity makes storage and shipping easier. The cylindrical shape stacks well and takes up minimal space.
Factors That Affect Paint Can Dimensions
Manufacturing Variations
Brand-specific dimension differences are usually small but noticeable. Some manufacturers make slightly taller cans with smaller diameters. Others prefer shorter, wider designs. These variations rarely exceed 0.25 inches.
Quality and material thickness impact durability and dimensions. Premium cans use thicker metal or plastic. This provides better protection but slightly reduces internal capacity. Budget cans may have thinner walls and hold marginally more paint.
Industry standard tolerances allow for minor variations. Most manufacturers stay within plus or minus 0.1 inches of stated dimensions. This consistency helps retailers and consumers plan storage effectively.
Handle and Lid Impact on Overall Height
Bail handle dimensions add to the total height when upright. A typical metal handle adds 4 to 5 inches when in carrying position. When laid flat against the can, handles add only 0.5 inches to height.
Plastic vs. metal handle specifications differ in size and shape. Plastic handles on quart cans are usually molded into the lid. Metal bail handles on gallons are more substantial. Both types are designed for comfortable carrying.
Lid thickness variations range from 0.05 to 0.1 inches. Metal lids are thinner than plastic lids. Some specialty lids include pour spouts that add height. Standard lids contribute minimally to overall dimensions.
Other Dimensions: Monster Can Dimensions: Size, Height and Length
Questions
What are the sizes of paint cans?
Standard paint can sizes include half-pint (8 oz), pint (16 oz), quart (32 oz), half-gallon (64 oz), gallon (128 oz), 5-quart (160 oz), and 5-gallon (640 oz). Metric sizes include 250ml, 500ml, 1-liter, 2.5-liter, and 5-liter cans.
How big is a 1 litre tin of paint?
A 1-liter paint can measures approximately 11 cm in diameter and 13 cm in height. In imperial measurements, that’s about 4.3 inches wide and 5.1 inches tall, holding 33.8 fluid ounces of paint.
How big is a 2.5 litre tin of paint?
A 2.5-liter tin typically measures around 15 cm in diameter and 16 cm in height. That converts to approximately 5.9 inches wide and 6.3 inches tall, holding about 84.5 fluid ounces of paint.
How big is a 250ml tin of paint?
A 250ml paint tin is approximately 7 cm in diameter and 8 cm in height. This small size holds about 8.5 fluid ounces and is perfect for very small projects or color sampling.
How big is a 500ml tin of paint?
A 500ml tin measures around 9 cm in diameter and 10 cm in height. The can holds approximately 16.9 fluid ounces, making it ideal for small touch-up jobs and craft projects.
How wide is a can of paint?
Paint can width varies by size. A pint is about 3.5 inches wide, a quart is 4.25 inches, a half-gallon is 5.9 inches, and a gallon is 6.5 to 6.6 inches. Five-gallon buckets measure 11 to 12 inches wide.
Conclusion
Understanding paint can dimensions makes every project easier and more efficient. From the compact 250ml sample tin to the industrial 5-gallon bucket, each size serves specific needs. Knowing exact measurements for diameter, height, and capacity helps you plan storage, estimate costs, and choose the right amount of paint.
Haru, the dedicated Admin of candimension.com, curates an informational blog on Can Dimension. With passion and expertise, Haru delivers insightful articles to educate and empower readers on this fascinating niche.
