Plastic graduated cylinders are used to measure liquid volumes. They are more accurate than flasks or beakers.

Plastic graduated cylinders are tall, narrow, and round vessels marked with graduations. Made of glass or plastic, the larger graduated cylinders are often made of plastic that is lightweight and will not break like glass.

Plastic graduated cylinders have a solid base or foot for stability and a spout to facilitate pouring out the contents. Because they are somewhat unsteady, some glass cylinders also have a plastic bumper or ring to help prevent accidental breakage if the cylinder falls over.