12g, 16g, 33g, 88g CO2 Cartridges Compared — Best Use Cases by Application

When it comes to CO2 cartridges, one size definitely does not fit all. Whether you’re inflating a bicycle tire, powering an airsoft gun, or operating a soda maker, the size and capacity of your cartridge will directly affect performance, safety, and runtime.

This guide compares four of the most commonly used sizes—12g, 16g, 33g, and 88g—helping you identify which option best fits your application scenario.

Why Cartridge Size Matters

Each CO2 cartridge size is designed to meet the needs of specific equipment. A handheld inflator for road bikes may only require 16g of CO2, while a pepper ball rifle used in security scenarios might demand the sustained output of an 88g cartridge. Choosing the right size improves efficiency, reduces waste, and ensures compatibility with your devices.

Different CO2 sizes like 12g, 16g, or 88g are often chosen based on the device they’re used with—whether it’s a soda maker, airsoft gun, or a professional drain cleaning tool. The choice often starts with understanding the full range of industrial cartridge types available.

Use Case Comparison

🔫 Airsoft & Defense Tools

Common Sizes: 12g, 16g, 33g, 45g, 88g
Compact sidearms and tactical training gear often rely on 12g cartridges, which are easy to swap and widely compatible. However, longer training sessions and high-performance rifles benefit from larger sizes like 88g, which provide a steadier flow and extended runtime.

Some users even keep a 33g or 45g cartridge as backup for critical-use gear.

🚴 Bicycle Tire Inflation

Common Sizes: 16g, 20g, 25g, 38g
Cyclists typically prefer 16g threaded cartridges for single-use tire inflation. Riders of mountain bikes or fat-tire models may opt for 25g or 38g, especially when dealing with higher volume tires.

The balance here is between portability and capacity—smaller cartridges weigh less but may not fully inflate larger tires.

🧃 Soda Makers & Beverage Systems

Common Sizes: 8g, 12g, 16g, 74g
Home soda machines often use 8g or 12g cartridges for their simplicity and availability. Larger systems for restaurants or bars tend to favor 74g sizes for cost-effectiveness over time.

The pressurized CO2 reacts with water to create carbonation, a process influenced by temperature and gas solubility.

🧯 Pepper Ball Launchers & Tactical Training

Common Sizes: 12g, 88g
For civilian defense tools or police training weapons, cartridge choice is all about pressure stability. 12g cartridges are easy to conceal and replace, but 88g is the go-to for extended field use—delivering consistent pressure over dozens of rounds.

🛟 Life Jackets & Emergency Floatation

Common Sizes: 17g, 24g, 33g, 45g
Inflatable PFDs (personal flotation devices) rely on CO2 cartridges that meet regulatory capacity thresholds. Adults often require 33g or more, while compact models for children use 17g or 24g.

The cartridges must activate reliably, often via salt tablet triggers or water-sensitive mechanisms.

🧼 Drain Cleaning & HVAC Maintenance

Common Sizes: 16g, 20g, 24g
Drain guns that use CO2 to clear condensate lines need cartridges that deliver a sudden, powerful burst. Threaded 16g and 20g sizes are commonly used in air conditioning maintenance, offering a mess-free alternative to pressurized tanks.

Final Thoughts

There’s no universally “best” cartridge size—it all depends on your intended use. For mobile devices, 12g and 16g strike the best balance between size and output. If endurance and high pressure are required, 33g and 88g are more appropriate.

Choosing the right CO2 cartridge saves time, money, and frustration. If you’re sourcing in bulk or need OEM options, the right supplier can tailor specifications to your exact needs.