Making the perfect cake, pastries, and many other recipes require high degrees of precision in measuring ingredients.
That’s where measuring cups come in handy. Tons of recipes will instruct you to measure a certain amount of flour, milk, oil, and many others, but without an ideal instrument, you are likely to get it wrong.
When choosing measuring cups, it’s best to go for those with clear calibrations. That is the whole essence of using cups. If you work with irregular quantities, then a clear cup with more calibrations is your best bet.
Read ahead to discover the best measuring cups from our top 10 measuring cup reviews and detailed buying guide.
In this post:
- 10 Best Measuring Cups – Review
- 1. Farberware 5216439 – Best Budget Measuring Cups
- 2. Bellemain TRTAZ11A – Best Stainless-Steel Measuring Cups
- 3. Pyrex 1118990 – Best Glass Measuring Cups
- 4. OXO 1050030 – Coolest Measuring Cup
- 5. OXO 1056988 – Best Plastic Measuring Cups
- 6. KitchenMade Measuring Cups – Best Professional Measuring Cups
- 7. Pyrex Prepware 6001074 – Basic Measuring Cup
- 8. Pyrex Prepware 1118440 – Non-porous Glass Measuring Cup
- 9. American Metalcraft MCW150 – Commercial Measuring Cup
- 10. Vremi VRM020046N – Decorated Measuring Cups
- How to Buy the Best Measuring Cups
- Conclusion
10 Best Measuring Cups – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Farberware 5216439 (Best Budget) |
| |
 | 2. Bellemain TRTAZ11A (Best Stainless-Steel) |
| |
 | 3. Pyrex 1118990 (Best Glass) |
| |
 | 4. OXO 1050030 (Coolest) |
| |
 | 5. OXO 1056988 (Best Plastic) |
| |
 | 6. KitchenMade Measuring Cups (Best Professional) |
| |
 | 7. Pyrex Prepware 6001074 (Basic) |
| |
 | 8. Pyrex Prepware 1118440 (Non-porous Glass Design) |
| |
 | 9. American Metalcraft MCW150 (For Commercial Use) |
| |
 | 10. Vremi VRM020046N (Decorated) |
|
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Farberware 5216439 (Best Budget)
|
2. Bellemain TRTAZ11A (Best Stainless-Steel)
|
3. Pyrex 1118990 (Best Glass)
|
4. OXO 1050030 (Coolest)
|
5. OXO 1056988 (Best Plastic)
|
6. KitchenMade Measuring Cups (Best Professional)
|
7. Pyrex Prepware 6001074 (Basic)
|
8. Pyrex Prepware 1118440 (Non-porous Glass Design)
|
9. American Metalcraft MCW150 (For Commercial Use)
|
10. Vremi VRM020046N (Decorated)
|
1. Farberware 5216439 – Best Budget Measuring Cups
Photo: Farberware
- Material: Plastic
- Measurement marking: 2 tbsp, 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, 1-cup
Farberware 5216439 is a unique set of 5 cups that are colorful, beautiful, and easy to read from their clear markings. They are ideal for both dry and wet ingredients.
They are also the most affordable measuring cups on our list.
The cups have long handles that make it easy to scoop ingredients like flour without touching them. The handles also have holes at their ends for hanging during storage.
A neat storage trick is to loop the cups together through their holes using a band and then hang them together. That way, you use the least storage space, and you don’t have to worry about losing one of the cups.
Although the Farberware 5216439 is a set of beautiful, lightweight, and easy-to-read measuring cups, the markings may come off gradually since they are not engraved. However, you can count on the cups’ durability and reliability.
Pros:
- Clear markings that are easy to read
- Affordable and great value for money
- Suitable for wet and dry ingredients
- Lightweight for easy handling
- Assorted colors for beauty and easy identification
Cons:
- Markings may come off since they are not engraved
2. Bellemain TRTAZ11A – Best Stainless-Steel Measuring Cups
Photo: Bellemain
- Material: Stainless steel
- Measurement marking: 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, 2/3 cup, 3/4 cup, 1-cup
Bellemain TRTAZ11A are loved for is premium stainless-steel build and the fact that they come in a set of 6 elegant and clearly-marked measuring cups.
The 18/8-gauge heavy-duty stainless steel is built to last. You are guaranteed of lifelong durability and long-lasting service form these cups.
They all have flat non-slip bottoms that enhance their stability and allow for compact nesting when not in use. When storing them, they occupy only the space of the largest one in the set, which is also incredibly compact.
The cups have clear markings engraves on their handle, giving you a bird’s eye view of the calibrations. You won’t have to lift the cups of squint every time you’re measuring flour, oil, or other ingredients.
Crafted as a single piece, the cups have no welds. This design style extends the cups’ durability.
There’s not much to dislike about these top-rated measuring cups from Bellemain. However, you will require additional effort to measure precise quantities of liquid ingredients as they are well suited for dry ones.
Pros:
- Durable heavy-duty stainless steel
- Flat, non-slip bottoms for stability
- Compact nesting for efficient storage
- Engrave markings on cup handles
- Wide handles for easy handling
Cons:
- Not clear so measuring liquid ingredients requires additional effort.
3. Pyrex 1118990 – Best Glass Measuring Cups
Photo: Pyrex
- Material: Glass
- Measurement marking: 1-cup, 2-cup, 4-cup
Pyrex 1118990 is the best glass measuring cup, which comes in a set of three. You get 1-cup, 2-cup, 4-cup cups with this purchase. They give you the freedom to choose the ideal cup for your desired measurements.
What you’ll love most about these cups is that they are clear and well-marked. You can use them for measuring both liquid and solid ingredients.
While you can’t use metallic cups in the oven or microwave, you don’t have to worry about that shortcoming with glass ones. They are safe for the microwave, fridge, freezer, and preheated oven.
Being dishwasher safe, you won’t struggle to clean these cups after use.
You will also get a 2-year warranty from Pyrex Glass when you buy this set. That reassures you that the cups are durable and high quality.
Although Pyrex 1118990 is the best set of glass measuring cups on our list, you may need to be extra cautious when handling them because of their brittleness compared to metallic ones.
Pros:
- 3-cup glass set for flexible usage
- Clear and well-marked for precise measuring
- Save for freezer, fridge, and preheated microwave
- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning
Cons:
- Glass is brittle hence requires extra caution when handling
4. OXO 1050030 – Coolest Measuring Cup
Photo: OXO
- Material: Plastic
- Measurement marking: 4-cup
OXO 1050030 may be a single cup, but it is the only brand that boasts of a patented angled design, which enables you to read measurements from above.
It eliminates the constant practice of filling, checking, and adjusting ingredients to achieve precise measurements.
Don’t be turned off by the fact that it is just a single cup. It’s actually has a 4-cup capacity, which means that you can measure small and large quantities with just one of these.
The plastic used to make this cup is tough, BPA-free and FDA-approved. Not only is it durable, but it is also less prone to breaking compared to the Pyrex glass cups.
Handling this cup is bliss as it comes with a non-slip handle made of soft silicone. Even when your hands are wet, you can comfortably use the cup without risking its slipping.
The cup is easy to clean as you can slot in the dishwasher.
You are assured of the product’s quality by the OXO Better Guarantee, which covers replacement and repair.
Pros:
- Easy to read measurements from above
- Large 4-cup capacity for all measuring needs
- Tough, durable, food-safe plastic
- Non-slip grip handle for ease of handling
Cons:
- Requires extra effort to measure solid ingredients
5. OXO 1056988 – Best Plastic Measuring Cups
Photo: OXO
- Material: Plastic
- Measurement marking: 1-cup, 2-cup, 4-cup
An improvement from the OXO 1050030, the OXO 1056988 comes in a set of three measuring cups with 1-cup, 2-cup, and 4-cup capacities, respectively.
Just like its predecessor, this set also has an angled design that allows you to easily read measurements from above, so no more lifting, squinting, and constant adjusting of ingredients.
With this set, you get standard and metric measurement markings, which include ‘cup’, ‘ounces’, and ‘millimeters.’ These different markings make it more convenient for you to measure a wide range of ingredients.
You also get an OXO Better Guarantee for repairs and replacement with when you purchase this set.
Although OXO 1056988 is the best set of plastic measuring cups, they cannot be used for very hot ingredients or over direct heat sources as they are susceptible to melting.
Pros:
- Comes in a set of three measuring cups
- Angled design for vertical viewing
- Three different measurement markings
- Comes with and OXO Better Guarantee
Cons:
- Can melt or deform from exposure to a lot of heat
6. KitchenMade Measuring Cups – Best Professional Measuring Cups
Photo: KitchenMade
- Material: Stainless steel
- Measurement marking: 1/8 cup 1/4 cup, 1/3 cup, 1/2 cup, 2/3 cup, 3/4 cup, 1-cup
KitchenMade professional measuring cups are the only ones on our list that come in a set of 7.
They make your measuring work incredibly easier because you don’t have to keep pouring ingredients in an out of a single cup to get the precise quantities. You can simply use the cup that corresponds to the desired quantity.
The cups are made of elegant stainless steel that revitalizes your kitchen. Their nested design makes them compact for easy storage.
Stainless steel is also bend-free and rust-free for maximum durability. Calibrations in ‘cups’ and ‘ml’ are engraved on the cups’ sides for ease and accuracy of measuring.
A uniquely-designed pouring lip on every cup prevents fluids from pouring down the sides and creating messes on the floor or counter.
Every purchase is backed by a 100% Money-Back Lifetime Guarantee to ensure your investment is risk-free. To get you started on using your new cups, you get a free 25-recipe eBook.
Pros:
- 7-cup professional set for maximum utility
- Premium rust-free and bend-free stainless steel
- Nested design for aesthetic appeal and easy storage
- Pouring lips prevent fluid spillage on the sides
Cons:
- When stacked perfectly, they can prove difficult to separate
7. Pyrex Prepware 6001074 – Basic Measuring Cup
Photo: Pyrex
- Material: Glass
- Measurement marking: 1-cup
Pyrex Prepware 6001074 is a compact 1-cup glass measuring cup that will satisfy most of your basic measuring needs, especially when working with ingredients that require small quantities.
It has measurement markings on two opposite outer surfaces. They make you measuring work easier as you don’t have to keep turning the cup to read measurements.
The high-quality glass used to make this cup is resistant to both stains and odors, so you get a fresh tool for every use.
You can use it in the refrigerator or freezer, and also in a preheated oven. It does not restrict you as metallic ones do.
Although Pyrex Prepware 6001074 is designed to meet your most basic measuring needs, its glass material is brittle and will require extra caution when handling it to avoid breakage.
Pros:
- Compact single cup
- Clear markings on two outer surfaces
- Resistant to stains, flavors, and odors
- Safe for use in the fridge, freezer, and preheated oven
Cons:
- Brittle glass requires extra caution when handling
8. Pyrex Prepware 1118440 – Non-porous Glass Measuring Cup
Photo: Pyrex
- Material: Glass
- Measurement marking: 2-cup
The Pyrex Prepware 1118440 may be just one cup, but its large 2-cup capacity makes it ideal for most of your baking and measuring needs.
It is made of non-porous glass that is resistant to odor and stains. The glass is also see-through, which makes it easy to monitor all measurement of cooking ingredients.
Unlike some other cups on our list, this one is freezer, fridge, microwave, and pre-heated oven safe. Thus, you can use it in multiple environments for different purposes.
You will also get a limited 2-year warranty with your purchase, so you can be confident in the quality of the measuring cup.
Although Pyrex Prepware 1118440 is one of the best glass measuring cups, its material makes it prone to breakage by falling or encountering hard surfaces. Also, the marking on the cup may come off with time or aggressive cleaning.
Pros:
- Large 2-cup capacity for measuring
- Non-porous glass resistant to odor and stains
- Easy monitoring through the clear glass
- Glass is oven, freezer, and microwave safe
Cons:
- Glass material is prone to breakage
- Markings may wear off with time
9. American Metalcraft MCW150 – Commercial Measuring Cup
Photo: American Metalcraft
- Material: Stainless steel
- Measurement marking: 1-1/2 cup
The American Metalcraft MCW150 is built for both commercial and home use. Its stainless-steel material promises years of rust-free and corrosion-free professional service.
Being a single cup, it is likely to occupy less space than other brands such as KitchenMade and Bellemain TRTAZ11A, both of which come in a set of many cups.
The cup has a wire-design handle for easy grip and cleaning. You can also use the handle as a loop to hang the cup.
A small lip dug on the edge prevents fluid spillage while maintaining the cup’s cylindrical design, which is smooth and elegant.
The major downside of this cup is that it is offered as a single piece with no measurement markings on the outside.
You are likely to struggle to use it especially if you want to measure quantities smaller than 1.5 cups. Nonetheless, you are assured of durability and reliability with this cup.
Pros:
- Suitable for commercial and home use
- Stainless steel is rust-proof and corrosion free
- Single-cup occupies little storage space
- Prevents fluid spillage
- Easy handling and storage
Cons:
- Difficult measuring different quantities with one cup
- Lacks measurement markings
10. Vremi VRM020046N – Decorated Measuring Cups
Photo: Vremi
- Material: Plastic
- Measurement marking: 4-cup, 2-cup, 1-cup
Vremi VRM020046N is a lightweight set of measuring cups weighing only 8.8 ounces.
The cups are made of heavy-duty BPA-free plastic that is toughened and clear for easy observation of the measured quantities.
Additional calibrations in milliliters (ml) and fluid ounces (oz) are included alongside the “cup” calibrations. Thus, the cup offers flexibility in the choice of units for measuring different quantities.
For ease of storage, you can stack the three cups together, with the largest one at the bottom.
Efficient grip and control are enhanced by the cups’ non-slip silicone handles. The handles are also colored for aesthetic appeal, but you can get creative and use the colors to identify the cups by quantity.
Although the Vremi VRM020046N is lightweight and easy to handle, they are not recommended for use in a microwave, freezer, or over a direct heat source. Also, they are not dishwasher safe, so hand-washing is the recommended mode of cleaning the cups.
Pros:
- Clear and practical measurements
- Lightweight and compact
- Stackable for easy storage
- Colored handles for aesthetics and easy identification
Cons:
- Not freezer, microwave or heat-friendly
- Not dishwasher safe
How to Buy the Best Measuring Cups
1. Measurement Marking
The very essence of a measuring cup is to achieve precise quantities with your desired cooking ingredients.
Thus, clear markings and calibrations on your cups are a must-have. The ideal measurement markings should be bold and clearly visible.
If your cups are metallic, then the ideal markings should be engraved on the surface for optimal visibility and maximum durability. Glass and plastic markings tend to be painted on the outer surfaces.
Marking should also apply units that are easy to read an understanding. Many brands calibrate their cups in ‘cup’, ‘ml’, or ‘oz’. The best ones use all three to give you the flexibility and freedom to choose the most ideal units for measuring your ingredients.
2. Material
The material used to make your cups should be a top priority because it determines how long they last, and how clear their markings are over time.
Stainless steel is a common cup material because it is durable, rust-free, and can handle both liquid and solid quantities.
Its measurement markings tend to be clear and durable because they are engraved on the metallic surface.
Glass and plastic, on the other hand, also have their advantages, the key one being the fact that they are clear, and you can monitor the quantities and measurements easily.
The downside of glass cups is that they are more fragile and prone to breakage compared to metallic ones, but that fact should not put you off as many are built to last.
3. Design and Handle
Measuring cups typically assume the conventional cup design, but with variations in size and build material.
The depth and width of your measuring cups will probably vary depending on the manufacturer and the rated quantity.
Handles tend to match the main cup materials. Longer handles may be easier to grip than short ones, especially if you do not want your hand touching the ingredient you’re measuring.
4. Ease to Use
The ergonomic of using your measuring cups will be determined by many factors including build material, cup design, handle design and material, and several more.
Naturally, glass cups will demand extra caution during used to prevent breakage. You can get one or two medium-sized glass cups and use them to measure different quantities. That way you minimize the risk of breaking them by handling fewer ones.
For metallic ones, we recommend getting a set of many cups of different quantities to simplify your measuring.
Glass, metallic, and plastic cups are all easy to clean. If you have a set of two or more metallic and plastic cups, most can be stacked together for easy storage.
Conclusion
When shopping for measuring cups, you can either get them as singles or in sets of two or more pieces depending on your cooking needs and budget.
Stainless steel ones are durable, lightweight, and can be stacked together for easy storage. Glass and plastic ones are preferable if you want to monitor the quantities for precise measurements.
With cup sets, you can simply use the one that corresponds to the desired quantity, which is simpler than using one to measure all your ingredients.
To get you started on your purchase, our comprehensive top 10 best measuring cup review covers all bases.