S'well 40oz Tumbler XL Straw Set Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

If you're after an insulated tumbler that can handle a full day of hydration without constant refills, the S'well 40oz Tumbler XL Stainless Steel Straw Set is worth a close look. This large capacity tumbler combines S'well's signature triple-wall insulation with a matching stainless steel straw, making it a strong candidate for long workdays, road trips, or outdoor adventures. But with a few different straw sets and accessories available, it's smart to weigh the details before you buy.

We spent several weeks testing the 40oz Tumbler XL Straw Set to see how well it holds up in real-world use. Our focus: ice retention, straw performance, ease of cleaning, and overall value. Here's what we found—and whether upgrading to this extra-large option makes sense for your routine.

Design and Build Quality

S'well has long been known for sleek, condensation-free bottles, and the 40oz Tumbler XL Straw Set follows that tradition. The tumbler body is made from double-wall vacuum-insulated 18/8 stainless steel, with a powder-coated finish that feels durable and resists fingerprints. The rounded shape fits in a standard car cup holder, though the 40oz height may be tight in smaller holders—worth checking before you buy.

One practical detail is the separate 40oz Tumbler XL Bumper, a silicone sleeve that protects the bottom of the tumbler from dings and adds grip. While the tumbler is well-built on its own, the bumper is an easy add if you're often on rough terrain or toss it in a bag. The included straw is a straight stainless steel style, which comes with its own cleaning brush—a thoughtful touch for maintaining hygiene.

• Pro tip: Pair the 40oz Tumbler XL with the optional Bumper for extra protection and a non-slip base.

Straw Set Performance: Stainless vs. Silicone

The 40oz Tumbler XL Stainless Steel Straw Set uses a metal straw that sits snugly in the splash-resistant lid. Compared to the 30oz Tumbler XL Silicone Straw Set, the stainless version feels more durable and doesn't flex, but it can be colder on the lips and harder on teeth. The silicone straw is softer and quieter, but it may collect lint or bend over time. Both options stay securely in the lid during drinking, and the lid's seal is tight enough to prevent spills when the tumbler tips over.

Cleaning is where the stainless straw set shines—the included brush reaches the entire length, and the straw is dishwasher-safe (top rack). Silicone straws sometimes require more attention because moisture can get trapped inside the bends. For high-traffic use, the stainless set is likely more hygienic and longer-lasting. If you prefer a softer mouthfeel, the 30oz set is worth considering, but keep in mind it's a different size—the 40oz and 30oz lids are not interchangeable.

• Quick comparison: Stainless straw = durable and easy to clean; silicone straw = soft and quiet but needs careful drying.

Ice Retention and Temperature Performance

In our home test, the 40oz Tumbler XL kept ice cubes intact for over 24 hours when filled with ice and water—no surprise given S'well's vacuum insulation. After 12 hours, the water remained cold, and the exterior stayed dry with no condensation. The large volume means you can add a generous amount of ice, and the tumbler's wide mouth makes it easy to fill. The included straw's opening is large enough to handle crushed ice or small cubes without clogging.

A caveat: if you're using the tumbler for hot beverages, the metal straw conducts heat quickly. The lid has a small drink opening, but the straw insert is not insulated, so hot coffee may burn your mouth via the straw. For hot drinks, consider removing the straw and sipping directly. For cold drinks, the ice retention is excellent and should satisfy even heavy hydrators.

• For best ice retention: pre-chill the tumbler or add ice-first before pouring cold liquid.

Who Should Upgrade from a Smaller Bottle?

If you currently use the 17oz Original Bottle with Flip Straw Cap and find yourself refilling multiple times a day, the 40oz Tumbler XL is a logical step up. The flip straw cap is convenient for one-handed drinking, but the 40oz tumbler's wide opening makes it easier to clean and add ice. On the other hand, the Original Bottle is more portable—it fits in most backpack pockets and is lighter. The tumbler is better suited for desk work, long drives, or stationary use where carrying in a bag is less frequent.

Similarly, if you own a 30oz Tumbler and want more capacity without losing the straw functionality, the 40oz Stainless Steel Straw Set adds 10 ounces while maintaining the same lid style. The upgrade is worth it if you consistently need more than 30 ounces between refills—for example, during a full shift or a long hike. The added weight (about 1.5 lbs empty) is noticeable, so consider your carry needs.

• Best for: desk workers, drivers, gym-goers who want one bottle to last all day. Less ideal for hiking or commuting where weight and size matter.

Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?

The S'well 40oz Tumbler XL Stainless Steel Straw Set delivers on its promise: excellent ice retention, a durable build, and a thoughtfully designed straw that's easy to clean. The main trade-offs are size and weight—it's bulky for on-the-go carry. The stainless straw is an upgrade over silicone in terms of longevity and hygiene, but the silicone set remains a good alternative if you prefer a softer feel. Pairing with the 40oz Tumbler XL Bumper adds protection and peace of mind.

If you're already invested in S'well's ecosystem or simply want a large capacity tumbler that keeps your drink cold from morning until night, this set is a solid choice. It's not the lightest or most portable, but for stationary or vehicle-based use, it's one of the best insulated tumbler straw sets we've tested.

Overall, the S'well 40oz Tumbler XL Stainless Steel Straw Set is a worthy upgrade for anyone who prioritizes ice retention and capacity over portability. With a durable straw, easy cleaning, and optional bumper accessory, it's a practical investment for long days. Whether you choose the stainless or silicone straw set depends on your material preference, but either way, you'll get a reliable, large-format tumbler that performs as advertised.