Ball 32oz Wide Mouth Fermentation Kit vs Mortier Pilon 5L Fermentation Crock
Head-to-head spec comparison to help you pick the right crock for your needs.
Ball
$22
Mortier Pilon
$89
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
| Spec | Ball 32oz Wide Mouth Fermentation Kit | Mortier Pilon 5L Fermentation Crock |
|---|---|---|
| Vessel Type | Mason Jar Kit | Water-Seal Crock |
| Capacity | 0.95 L | 5 L |
| Material | Glass | Stoneware |
| Water-Seal Lid | No | Yes |
| Weights Included | Yes | Yes |
| Stamper Included | No | No |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes | No |
| Lead-Free Glaze | Yes | Yes |
| Made In | USA | China |
| Price | $22 | $89 |
| Rating | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon |
Pros & Cons
Ball 32oz Wide Mouth Fermentation Kit
Pros
- Everything in one box: wide mouth quart jar, fermentation lid, stainless steel spring weight, and recipe booklet
- Ball brand reliability — the jar and lid use the same proven seal quality as Ball canning jars
- Spring weight holds vegetables below brine without fussing with heavy stones
- Compact quart size fits easily in a cabinet or fridge during cold ferment
- Under $25 — lowest cost of entry for any verified fermentation system
Cons
- Single-jar kit — serious batches require buying multiple units
- 32oz (1 quart) is small; a single cabbage produces more than this
- Spring weight is stainless steel, not glass — some fermenters prefer glass-only contact
Mortier Pilon 5L Fermentation Crock
Pros
- 5-liter capacity handles large batches — ideal for kimchi or sharing with multiple households
- Attractive modern design looks good on a kitchen counter or as a gift
- Water-seal moat built into the lid design prevents oxygen ingress
- Comes with two half-moon ceramic weights sized for the 5L interior
- Lead-free, BPA-free, food-safe stoneware throughout
Cons
- Heavier than comparable crocks when filled — not easy to move to the fridge
- Lid seal moat requires topping up with water during long ferments
- No recipe guide or beginner instructions included
Our Verdicts
Ball 32oz Wide Mouth Fermentation Kit
The easiest on-ramp for a first ferment. The Ball name means quality, the included spring weight actually works, and the price removes all excuses. Not for large batches.
Mortier Pilon 5L Fermentation Crock
The best mid-size water-seal crock for kimchi and larger sauerkraut batches. The modern aesthetic and generous 5L capacity make it an excellent gift pick.
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