Honey Extracting Equipment

Understanding Honey Extractor Options

When it comes to choosing extracting equipment, the primary choice lies between tangential and radial extractors.

Tangential Extractors:
These extract honey from one side of the frame at a time. The frame must be flipped to extract the honey from the other side. Tangential extractors are a cost-effective option, particularly well-suited for hobbyist beekeepers or those with a smaller number of hives.

Radial Extractors:
Offering a more efficient extraction process, radial extractors spin frames in a way that centrifugal force extracts honey from both sides simultaneously. This method is faster and requires less manual handling of frames, making it ideal for beekeepers with more hives or those looking to streamline their honey harvesting. A popular choice for the serious hobbyist looking to scale up is our Lyson 12 Frame Radial Extractor, both manual and motorized versions, known for their quality and efficiency.

Key Considerations When Choosing Your Extractor

Number of Hives: As your apiary grows, a larger capacity or a more efficient radial extractor becomes crucial. For very small operations (1-4 hives), a 4-frame tangential extractor is a common starting point.

Budget: Honey extractors range in price, with manual tangential extractors typically being the most affordable. Consider an extracting kit to get started with both an extractor and uncapping tools.

Time Commitment: If you have limited time for honey extraction, a radial or motorized extractor can significantly reduce the time required.
View Our Honey Extraction Guide to estimate how long it will take to extract honey

Frame Size: Ensure the extractor you choose can accommodate the size of frames you use in your hives (deep, medium, or shallow). Our extractor comparison chart provides details on frame capacity for each model.

Need Help Choosing Your Honey Extractor?

For expert guidance in choosing the right extractor or for tips on efficient honey extraction, visit our Honey Uncapping and Extractor Guide, call our knowledgeable team at 1-800-632-3379, or shoot us a message at support@betterbee.com.