Laboratory beakers are distinguished from flasks by generally having straight, rather than sloped sides although stackable beakers feature tapered sides for efficient storage.  Usually they have a flat bottom and are cylindrical in shape and most have a spout to aid pouring. Most commonly, beakers are manufactured from glass, usually borosilicate, however they can also be manufactured from certain plastics such as polythene, polypropylene, PMP and PTFE, or metal such as aluminium or stainless steel.

They are available in a variety of capacities, in low form (also known as short form) and tall form styles and heavy duty (thicker walled) glass with reinforced rims to withstand more intensive use. Most beakers often feature printed or moulded graduation lines to indicate the level of volume contained, although these marks are not intended as a precise measurement.

Glass low form beakers are great for general laboratory use as they help prevent spills, offer good chemical resistance and can withstand higher temperatures.