This Stardew Valley guide compares Kegs and Preserves Jars, two crucial tools for transforming crops into valuable artisan goods. Both increase profits significantly, especially with the Artisan profession's 40% sell price boost. However, their crafting costs, production times, and resulting product values differ.
Kegs vs. Preserves Jars: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Kegs:
- Pros: Generally yield higher profit margins (Wine, Beer, etc.). Alcoholic products can be aged in Casks for even greater returns (requires the final farmhouse upgrade).
- Cons: More expensive to craft (requires metal bars, Oak Resin). Longer processing times.
Preserves Jars:
- Pros: Inexpensive and easy to craft (uses basic materials). Faster processing times, making them efficient for low-value, high-yield crops (e.g., Blueberries). Can process items Kegs cannot (Roe).
- Cons: Lower profit margins per item compared to Kegs.
Item Processing:
The quality of the input item doesn't affect the output's quality or selling price. Use lower-quality produce for maximum efficiency.
Keg Products:
| Item In Keg | Product | Base Sell Price |
|---|---|---|
| Any fruit | [fruit] Wine | 3x base price |
| Most vegetables | [item] Juice | 2.25x base price |
| Hops | Pale Ale | 300g |
| Wheat | Beer | 200g |
| Honey | Mead | 200g |
| Tea Leaves | Green Tea | 100g |
| Coffee Beans (5) | Coffee | 150g |
| Rice | Vinegar | 100g |
Preserves Jar Products:
| Item In Jar | Product | Base Sell Price |
|---|---|---|
| Any fruit | [fruit] Jelly | 2x base price + 50g |
| Vegetables/Mushrooms | Pickled [item] | 2x base price + 50g |
| Roe (except Sturgeon) | Aged [fish] Roe | 2x roe price |
| Sturgeon Roe | Caviar | 2x roe price |
Conclusion:
Both Kegs and Preserves Jars are valuable assets. Kegs offer higher potential profits but require a larger initial investment and longer wait times. Preserves Jars are a quicker, cheaper option, particularly useful early-game or for low-value crops. For optimal profit, consider using both depending on your crop types and farm stage. The 1.6 update expanded compatible items for both, adding foraging options like leeks and winter roots.
