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IBU Calculator (Tinseth)
Calculate the International Bitterness Units (IBUs) of your beer using the Tinseth formula, which accounts for hop utilization based on boil time and wort gravity.
Average of pre-boil and post-boil gravity
Hop Additions
Weight
Unit
Alpha Acid %
Boil Time
min
Estimated IBUs
34.4
International Bitterness Units
020406080100+
Moderate Bitterness
Tinseth Formula
IBU = (W × AA% × U × 74.62) / VW = Weight of hops (oz), AA = Alpha Acid %, V = Volume (gal)
U = 1.65 × 0.000125^(SG-1) × (1 - e^(-0.04 × time)) / 4.15
About IBU Calculation
International Bitterness Units (IBUs) measure the bitterness of beer contributed by hops. The Tinseth formula is one of the most accurate methods for estimating IBUs, taking into account hop utilization based on boil time and wort gravity.
Typical IBU Ranges by Style:
| Beer Style | IBU Range |
|---|---|
| Light Lager | 8-12 |
| Wheat Beer | 10-20 |
| Pilsner | 25-45 |
| Pale Ale | 30-50 |
| Beer Style | IBU Range |
|---|---|
| IPA | 40-70 |
| Double IPA | 60-100+ |
| Stout | 25-50 |
| Imperial Stout | 50-90 |
Important Notes:
- Use the average gravity during the boil for most accurate results
- Late hop additions (under 10 minutes) contribute minimal IBUs but significant aroma
- Dry hopping contributes no IBUs but adds hop aroma and flavor
- Actual perceived bitterness depends on the balance with malt sweetness
- Higher gravity worts reduce hop utilization