Which is better for canning jam?

The Mainstays 8 oz jars. Half-pint jars are the standard size for jams and jellies, and a 12-pack costs $15.65 versus $34.99 for the Ball pints.

Which holds more food?

The Ball jar holds 16 oz, twice the Mainstays 8 oz. A Ball 12-pack holds 192 fl oz total; a Mainstays 12-pack holds 96 fl oz.

Can I freeze the Ball jars?

Yes, Ball lists them as freezer safe. Mainstays does not list freezer use, so keep those for pantry and refrigerator storage.

Is the Ball set worth the extra money?

If you can pints or freeze and microwave food, yes. If you only need small jars for jam, honey or crafts, the Mainstays set does the job for less.

Which has better reviews?

Ball scores slightly higher at 4.7 from 286 ratings versus 4.6 from 2,403 ratings for Mainstays. The Mainstays score rests on far more reviews.

Do both use regular mouth lids?

Yes, both are regular mouth, so standard regular-mouth lids and bands fit either jar.

Ball Regular Mouth Mason Jars with Lids and Bands vs Mainstays 8 oz Regular Mouth Half Pint Mason Canning Jars with Lids and Bands, 12 Pack

Buy the Ball 16 oz jars if you need pint-size capacity for canning fruits, salsas and sauces, or if you want jars that are freezer and microwave safe. Buy the Mainstays 8 oz jars if you make jams, jellies, honey or small desserts and want a lower entry price. The Ball 12-pack is $34.99 at Walmart as of November 3, 2026, while the Mainstays 12-pack last sold for $15.65 on November 2, 2026.

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