Stainless Steel memobottle vs Original: Pros and Cons
By memobottle™ | Slim premium reusable water bottles | Published: 2026-10-17
Category: Comparisons
Compare the insulated stainless steel memobottle with the original plastic version. See the key trade-offs in durability, insulation, weight, and fit for your daily carry.
Quick answer
The stainless steel memobottle offers better insulation and a premium feel but weighs more and costs more. The original plastic memobottle is lighter and more affordable, making it better for travel or gym bags. Choose based on whether temperature retention or portability matters more to you.
Material and insulation differences
The original memobottle is made from durable, BPA-free Tritan plastic. It keeps drinks at room temperature and is transparent so you can see your water level. The stainless steel version uses double-wall vacuum insulation, which keeps cold drinks cold and hot drinks hot for hours. That insulation comes with a weight penalty: the steel bottles are noticeably heavier, especially when full.
If you mostly drink tap water at your desk or during short commutes, the plastic original is perfectly adequate. If you want iced water to stay cold through a long hike or a hot day, the insulated stainless steel model is the better choice.
Size and capacity: A6 vs A5
Both materials are available in the same flat, paper-inspired shapes. The A6 size (stainless steel in White or Pink Salt) is compact enough for a handbag or cross-body bag, holding roughly 375 ml. The A5 size (stainless steel in Powder Blue) has extra capacity and fits flat against a laptop in a backpack. The plastic versions share these same dimensions but weigh about half as much.
If weight is your top priority—say, for a hiking daypack or a packed carry-on—the plastic original is easier to carry all day. If you value insulation and are willing to carry a bit more weight, the stainless steel version adds real utility.
Lid compatibility and care
The stainless steel memobottle uses a dedicated lid with a silicone seal for a leak-proof fit. A Copper Lid is available as a spare or replacement, but it is only compatible with the stainless steel range. The original plastic bottle uses a different lid design and is not interchangeable. Keep this in mind if you already own one type and plan to add the other.
Both lids are easy to clean by hand, but the stainless steel lid should be dried promptly to avoid water spots. The plastic lid is more forgiving of occasional dishwasher use.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Insulation vs weight: Stainless steel keeps drinks cold or hot for hours but is heavier. Plastic is lighter but does not insulate. Choose insulation for long days outdoors; choose plastic for minimalist packing.
- Durability vs visibility: Stainless steel is dent-resistant and opaque. Plastic is transparent and can scratch over time. Steel hides wear better; plastic lets you see your water level.
- Price vs value: The stainless steel A6 is priced at $39 (was $65), while the plastic original is typically less. The steel version costs more upfront but may last longer. If budget is tight, the plastic original is a great value. If you want premium feel and insulation, the steel version is worth the extra.
Key product details
- A6 memobottle (Stainless Steel) - White: The A6 memobottle™ is the perfect daily companion, easily fitting in your handbag, cross-body bag, or backpack. Thanks to its compact size, and paper-inspired design, the A6 memobottle™ will keep you hydrated everywhere and anywhere you go. This compact stainless steel size is ideal for everyday carry in smaller bags, but it weighs more than the plastic equivalent.
- A5 memobottle (Stainless Steel) - Powder blue: The A5 memobottle is built for effortless all-day hydration, with its extra large capacity and space-saving form. Its paper-inspired design allows it to fit flat in your bag against your books, laptop, and more. The larger A5 in stainless steel gives you more water capacity with insulation, but the added weight is more noticeable in a backpack.
Which one fits your routine?
Best for
- Commuters who want cold water all day without refills
- Hikers or outdoor workers who need temperature retention
- Anyone who prefers a premium, heavier feel
Not ideal for
- Ultralight packers or travelers who count every gram
- Budget-conscious buyers who don't need insulation
- People who prefer to see their water level at a glance
