I tried the leakproof BrüMate Tumbler, and I’m never using a Stanley Cup again

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The world seems to be in a frenzy over the 40-ounce Stanley Cup, but I have had issues with the tumbler ever since I got one. As a professional product reviewer, I kept finding flaws with what should be a simple product. I got annoyed by how unwieldy it was, cursed the cap system every time it tipped over and immediately sent water flowing everywhere, and hated how I couldn’t bring it anywhere without worrying about it spilling. 

Any of the best travel mugs or water bottles should be easy to manage and keep your drink at the ideal temperature. When I tried a BrüMate 40-ounce Era, it was like I had finally seen the light. These two water bottles cost the exact same ($45), but only the BrüMate is worth that price. Here’s why I love it. 

Lid design

I use my tumbler all day and in all kinds of environments, so I often end up placing it on the floor or near my computer. Accidents happen, and the BrüMate is prepared. With a fantastic lid system that keeps water from immediately flowing, I don’t have to panic when it gets knocked over. This is my favorite feature, bar none. 

It’s not even locked in the picture above — the Era is just so well-designed that the water flows super slowly when tipped. If you leave it open on its side, it will eventually leak, but it takes well over five seconds for water to start coming out. That’s more than enough time to right it and save a keyboard or carpet. There is no comparison with the Stanley, which gushes water the second it tips over.

Locking

A tumbler that locks is an absolute game changer. Switching from a tumbler to a water bottle with a cap is a hassle, so I was thrilled to discover the BrüMate locks completely. I put the BrüMate in bags all the time and have never had it leak. 

The Stanley, on the other hand, does not lock with a straw. You have to remove the straw completely, wipe it down, and then store it somewhere else in order to rotate the Stanley lid to a locked position. And don’t try to turn it upside down. Even with a “locked” lid, the Stanley leaks water heartily.

Straw

I never had strong opinions about straws before I tried the BrüMate, but now I can absolutely say this is the best straw tumbler I’ve used. The BrüMate straw system has a metal base and silicone top, which keeps the water cold even as its coming up the straw. Every sip is crisp and icy. (If you want a more traditional water bottle, the Owala FreeSip also has a clever straw design.)

I also love the fact that a piece of plastic isn’t sitting in my water all day. Since I’ve switched to a BrüMate, I have noticed that water from the Stanley tastes plasticky. Plus, I feel way more comfortable knowing that plastic particles aren’t seeping into my water if I leave the tumbler in the hot sun. 

Ergonomic shape

Overall, I love the balanced shape of BruMate Tumbler. The smooth, curving shape helps it stay upright and have a more pleasing aesthetic. The handle is proportional to the tumbler itself, and it has silicone grips on the inside. When I hold the BruMate, I feel like I have a secure grasp. I prefer this by a huge margin to the unwieldy, large Stanley handle.

The BrüMate uses functional silicone accents to make it a more comfortable tactile experience. Similar to a Takeya water bottle, the BrüMate also has a padded silicone bottom that prevents it from clattering or wobbling when you put it down. There’s also silicone along the lid to make it easier to grip and open. 

The bottom line

If you’re choosing between the two, I highly recommend the BrüMate. The main reason why I made the switch was to get a tumbler that wouldn’t leak, but I quickly found that there are tons of reasons why the BrüMate Era would become my favorite water bottle. BrüMate’s thoughtful features, like silicone accents and a metal straw, put it miles ahead of the Stanley when it comes to functionality.