Nitrous oxide -- N2O, known more casually as laughing gas -- comes to a pastry kitchen either as a cream charger or as a professional tank. The gas is the same; the way each fits into a working day is not.
A cream charger is a sealed unit at 666 g, 2 kg or 4.33 kg. It joins compatible dispensing equipment, is used through, and is replaced. Storage is uncomplicated and keeping one in reserve is straightforward.
A professional N2O tank at 5 kg or 10 kg is a cylinder. It holds a great deal more, it requires a compatible regulator, and it needs a proper place to stand. What it offers in return is service that is not interrupted to change a unit.
Volume decides which is right. A patisserie finishing plates to order seldom needs a tank. A hotel kitchen producing foams across several services generally does. Between those, consider how often a change breaks the rhythm of the bench.
The compliance position is identical for both. Supplied for lawful culinary and food-service use, with equipment specified as compatible in the current manufacturer instructions, within the regulations in force. Inspect before use, never run damaged, altered or incorrectly connected equipment, and follow the manufacturer on handling, ventilation, storage and disposal.
If the right form is not obvious, send the regulator or siphon already on your bench and we will check it against the listing first.