Beer SRM Color Calculator
Predict beer color from grain bill.
Grain
Weight (lb)
Color (°L)
Predicted SRM (Morey)
9.8
Deep amber
MCU
15.6
Daniels SRM
11.5
Malt Color Units = sum of (weight in lb × Lovibond) / volume in gallons. Morey's equation gives the SRM most homebrewers use. The swatch is a visual approximation, not lab-grade.
About
SRM (Standard Reference Method) is the homebrew color scale. This estimates the SRM of a finished beer using Daniels' or Morey's equations from grain weight and Lovibond.
How to use
- Add each grain with weight (lb or kg) and color (Lovibond).
- Enter batch size in gallons or liters.
- See predicted SRM and a color swatch.
FAQ
Daniels or Morey?+
Morey for darker beers (above SRM 10), Daniels for paler. The differences are small. Most homebrew software defaults to Morey.
Why does my beer look darker than the calculator predicted?+
Boil duration and Maillard reactions add color the formulas don't fully capture. Long boils and decoctions can add 1-3 SRM.