What is the difference between an 8-frame and a 10-frame?

One of the choices beekeepers have to make when starting out is what size frames to get for their hive. The most common configuration in the United States is a combination of 10-frame deep boxes and 10-frame medium boxes, however 8-frames have recently become more popular. As it says in the name, 10-frame boxes hold 10 frames and 8-frame boxes hold 8 frames. There are many advantages and disadvantages to each type, and each beekeeper you talk to will have different opinions on which type you should use.

Frames in a Beehive. Source: Foxhound Bee Company

10-frame Equipment

Altogether, 10-frames are more commonly used; therefore they are easier to learn how to handle and to find extra supplies for them. With 10-frame boxes, bees have access to an additional two frames to store honey or brood, which can add-up to a lot more storage depending on how many boxes you have in your hive. In addition, beekeepers require less 10-frames for their hive compared to 8-frames because of the size difference. However, more frames means heavier boxes. A 10-frame deep full of honey weighs from 80 to 90 pounds which is about 15 pounds more than an 8-frame box full of honey. The weight of the 10-frame box is the biggest drawback since it is almost impossible for a single person to lift it. 

Source: Hives & More

8-frame Equipment

The main selling points of 8-frames is that they are lighter and less trouble to handle since they are smaller in size, and they have become increasingly popular. The lower weight also reduces risk of injury. One important aspect to note is that bees tend to move up, or use the box above, before moving outwards (to the extra frames on the side for a 10-frame). This is why bees tend to have higher survival rates during the winter in 8-frames. The downsides of 8-frames are that it means more boxes to handle and more equipment in general. 

It is up to you…

Make sure you know what you want before you choose whether to use 8-frames or 10-frames because it is very difficult to use both interchangeably. Each size has their own accessories and equipment that fits with it, and the bees will use whatever you choose.