Top 15 Best Soda Makers for Your Fizzy Water
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Soda makers have been around the market since 1903, however, not until 2007 did SodaStream – the pioneer in soda maker start to regain popularity through their marketing campaign.
Until now, there has been many kitchen appliances joining the market. To create the sparkling water, you have so many available options. For fizzy water lovers, have you thoroughly understood the soda maker?
How Does Soda Maker Work?
Soda maker brings carbonation into your water by releasing the pressurized carbon dioxide through a valve. The unpowered or powered countertop model will use bigger CO2 cylinder. The soda siphon will use the smaller 8g CO2 cartridges.
Benefits of Soda Maker
A great benefit to the maker is the number of plastic bottles you save on buying seltzer. Instead, you will have to change the bottle of the soda maker per several years and buy the gas canister.
Moreover, you will save more time, money on buying the plastic soda bottles and get rid of the high sugar content. Better health with less money. Why not?
Soda Maker Comparison Chart
In this comparison chart, I’ve listed the type of soda makers, their color and weight. If you prefer colorful soda maker, check the color available. Other than black and white models, other colored models will have a higher price.
Which Is the Best Soda Maker for You?
If you like the old style of soda siphon, you can choose the handheld soda maker. If you prefer bigger and more compact soda maker, you can choose countertop model. The best list below describes some of the best soda makers.
- Best Overall: Drinkmate Beverage Carbonation Maker
“Versatile soda maker, available in 3 different colors, detachable infuser.” - Best Budget: SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Machine
“60L carbonator cylinder included, available in many colors, affordable price.” - Best Handheld: Isi Stainless Steel Soda Siphon Bottle
“Stainless steel bottle, air-tight, no leaking gas, small and durable design.” - Best SodaStream: SodaStream Fizzi One Touch Sparkling Water Maker
“Easy to use, quick, one-liter bottle and 60L CO2 cylinder included, three levels of carbonation.” - Best Versatile: Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Soda Maker
“Versatile spritzer, portable, easy to use, can convert from handheld to countertop carbonator.” - Best Design: Aarke Sparkling Water Carbonator II
“Stainless steel maker, aesthetical and clever design, easy to use, carbonate quickly, good customer service.” - Best Starter Kit: SodaStream Source Sparkling Water Maker
“Easy to use, LEDs indicator, no dripping, 7L carbonator and 1L bottle included” - Best for Small Kitchen: IKICH Sparkling Water Maker
“Small housing compartment to save space, sleek and modern design, two 1L bottles, drip guard.”
Top 15 Best Soda Maker Reviews
With various kitchen appliances joining the game, you can compare and choose from a wide range of soda makers available.
1. SodaStream Source Sparkling Water Maker
(Best Starter Kit)
In 2012, SodaStream cooperated with Yves Behar to design the SodaStream Source soda machines, which are specifically built for sustainability goals.
The sleek design comes in two colors black and white. Black sturdy soda makers are more favorable because of its luxurious feeling. The BPA-free carbonating bottle is one liter which is sold with the water maker.
This countertop model requires no electricity, which is a great bonus for environmental-friendly users. The carbonator included in the package is 7-liter. If you buy the package without carbonator or you want a larger carbonator for your big family, buy 60-liter C02 cylinder.
It is easy to use with three steps. First, open the back of the unit, insert the carbonator and twist it. Second, pull the nozzle forward to easily insert the plastic bottle. Third, press down on the carbonating block and see the level of carbonation.
The LED lights with elegant water-like design indicate three levels of fizz: light, medium and heavy. The whole process only takes second to finish. Whether you like high-carbonated cola or Dr. Pete flavored soda, look at the LED light and stop at the right level.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | Yes, 3 levels |
Control type | Pushing block |
Carbonator | 7L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Easy to use
- LEDs indicator
- No dripping
- 7L carbonator and 1L bottle included
Cons
- Leaking gas
Watch this video to see how to make soda with SodaStream Source Sparkling Water Maker:
2. SodaStream Jet Sparkling Water Maker Starter Kit
This kit includes the maker, one-liter BPA-free Carbonating bottle, a mini 6-liter C02 carbonator and one $15 mail-in rebate for 60-liter carbonator refill.
This model takes up less kitchen space with slim-fit design. The housing compartment is compatible with 13-liter, 60-liter and 130-liter C02 cylinders. This is the only model working with the largest CO2 cylinder.
The water should be filled up to the marking line. You tilt the lever and twist it into place. However, the problem with the pushing button is it takes lots of effort and often doesn’t work properly.
Furthermore, CO2 gradually escapes from the seal between the container and the adapter.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | 6L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Slim-fit design
- Mini carbonator and mail-in rebate included
- Good customer service
- Compatible with 130-liter CO2 cylinder
Cons
- Leaking gas
- Not working push button
Watch this video to see how to use SodaStream Jet Sparkling Water Maker Starter Kit:
3. SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Machine
(Best Budget)
SodaStream has so many different designs with different basic features. Fizzi machines are compact and cordless, which uses the carbonating button for up to 7 times in about 10 seconds to fizz the tap water.
The package includes water maker, one-liter carbonating bottle and 60-liter CO2 cylinder.
This model can also work with all the reusable bottles from SodaStream apart from the Soda Stream glass carafe.
As there is no indication for carbonation level, you push the button up to seven times and for maximum of 10 seconds. Removing the bottle after fizzing takes more effort and you should wait a little bit before taking the bottle out.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | 60L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Compatible with all SodaStream reusable bottles
- 60L carbonator cylinder included
- Available in many colors
Cons
- Difficult to release from the snap-lock
- Longer carbonating time
Watch this video to see the demo and review of SodaStream Fizzi Sparkling Water Machine:
4. SodaStream Fizzi One Touch Sparkling Water Maker
(Best SodaStream)
One touch model from SodaStream is the only one to require electricity to fizz with three levels of carbonation. This kit includes one-liter BPA-free bottle with 60-liter CO2 cylinder.
The only difference is you need to plug in the cord so that the LEDs are on. Push once to select the carbonation level. Push again to start the process.
There are three levels of carbonation to choose from. The Fizzi One Touch needs electricity to function properly because each button corresponds to a different valve opening from the gas cylinder.
The powered model carbonates more quickly and efficiently thanks to the electricity.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Automatic button |
Carbonator | 60L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Easy to use
- Quick
- One-liter bottle and 60L CO2 cylinder included
- Three levels of carbonation
Cons
- Requires electricity
Watch this video to see the unbox and how to use SodaStream Fizzi One Touch Sparkling Water Maker:
5. SodaStream Crystal Sparkling Water Maker Starter Kit
Apart from the 9-liter CO2 cylinder, the black and silver maker, this kit also includes two glass carafe and a mail-in rebate for 60-liter carbonator.
The sleek design allows the pop up to seal up the carbonation process. This model is similar to the “Aqua Fizz” model with a different locking mechanism.
When unlocking the latch, the front part pops up higher to reveal the glass carafe inside. Put the container into place, push down the upper part and seal with the lock. The plastic plunger inside will carbonate the water when pushing the button.
The downside of this model is it drips water inside the holder for the glass bottle. Furthermore, it doesn’t fit the large 130-liter CO2 cylinder. During the carbonating process, you can’t see how the level of carbonation. However, pressing down from three to five times is enough.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | 9L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Glass carafe
- Sleek design
- Seal-up mechanism
- 9-liter CO2 cylinder included
Cons
- Dripping water
- Not compatible with 130-liter C02 cylinder
- Takes more space with pop-up front part
Watch this video to see the review of SodaStream Crystal Sparkling Water Maker Starter Kit:
6. Kitchenaid KSS1121OB Sparkling Beverage Maker
Kitchenaid, the famous American kitchenware company founded in 1919, features all-metal soda maker with a lot of colors to choose from. Moreover, all the process from designing to assembly take place in Greenville, Ohio.
Similar to the technology used in SodaStream machines, Kitchenaid needs the one-liter or 60-liter CO2 cartridges to produce the soda fizz you want. The package includes 60-liter C02 tank and one-liter BPA-free die-cast metal bottle.
This soda maker is also made from die-cast metal which is much heavier than the normal countertop soda maker. If you insert the 60-liter tank, you need to thread it through the hole in the bottom of the machine.
Another difference is the black carbonation lever. Instead of being pressed down, this metal lever needs pushing down. The more you push down the lever control, the more the water is carbonated. You can check the pressure gauge to see the carbonation level.
When finished, raise the lever to the vertical position, rotate the depressurized bottle and add any flavors from SodaStream. Enjoy your soda!
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | The pressure gauge |
Control type | Pushing lever |
Carbonator | 60L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 1 year |
Pros
- Sturdy and colorful design
- Easy to use lever
- The pressure gauge indicator
- BPA-free metal bottle
Cons
- Heavy
- Only carbonate water
Watch this video to see the review of Kitchenaid KSS1121OB Sparkling Beverage Maker:
7. Aarke Sparkling Water Carbonator II
(Best Design)
Different from other models, this countertop soda maker from AARKE is a slim, compact and sturdy design made from stainless steel. The Aarke Carbonator II is an upgraded version from the model in 2016.
I’m so in love with the aesthetical design which fits my home décor. While I’m a stainless-steel sucker, the function of this carbonator also a great bonus besides its design.
It’s super easy to use when you just need to screw on the high-quality PET plastic bottle and pull the lever. All done!
Depending on your preference, you can pull down the handle as many times as you want. Each pull lasts 2 seconds, and with three pulls the water tastes like fizzy water. Don’t waste on the CO2 as you will get your favorite soda with just two or three presses.
However, the package doesn’t include the C02 cylinder so you will have to buy it separately. While designed in Sweden, this high-quality carbonator is manufactured in China.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing lever |
Carbonator | 60L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Stainless steel maker
- Aesthetical and clever design
- Good instructions in manual
- Easy to use
- Carbonate quickly with three pulls in seconds
- Good customer service
Cons
- Pricey cost
- Plastic bottle
- No CO2 cylinder included
Watch this video to see the review from Ofour about Aarke Sparkling Water Carbonator II:
8. Isi Stainless Steel Soda Siphon Bottle
(Best Handheld)
Different from countertop soda makers, handheld soda siphon is simpler which has been available in the market since 1829. You might have seen its appearance on TV series, or on the bar counter thanks to its light and vintage design.
The 1 Quart bottle is made from durable stainless steel which needs chilling before the carbonation. To use it, first place the plastic measuring tube into the siphon. Then, pour the cold water into the bottle until it reaches the bottom of the tube.
Put the straw-like siphon tub inside. Screw the head on and screw the holder with one CO2 cartridge inside until you hear the hissing sound. Shake the siphon vigorously.
Remove the cartridge holder and twist the cap in. Put it into the fridge for the second cartridge or dispensing. You shouldn’t overfill the bottle because it takes space for the water to be carbonated.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Shake manually |
Carbonator | No |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Stainless steel bottle
- Air-tight, no leaking gas
- Small and durable design
Cons
- Only carbonate water
- Takes time and effort
Watch this video to see how to use Isi Stainless Steel Soda Siphon Bottle:
9. Innovee Soda Siphon Ultimate Soda Maker
This soda siphon from Nuvantee is made from aluminum, which is slightly heavier than Isi Stainless Steel Soda Siphon. Beside the siphon, you will get free cocktail recipes in eBook format and a black plastic fork.
This bottle is only 1-liter which also includes the straw and the tube in black color. When you take out the plastic straw from the bottle, use the fork included to get the black tube out easily.
Pour 3 1/2 to 4 cups of cold water into the bottle, twist the cap, screw the aluminum charger holder (with C02 cartridge inside) and shake it.
The O-ring on top of the long plastic tube seals the gap between the bottle and the tub better. There are extra O-rings included to replace in case the gas is leaking. You also get extra aluminum charger.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Shake manually |
Carbonator | No |
Warranty | Lifetime |
Pros
- Aluminum bottle
- Extra O-rings, aluminum charger, black fork key and eBook included
- Good customer service
Cons
- Only 1-liter bottle
- Leaking gas
Watch this video to see how to use Innovee Soda Siphon Ultimate Soda Maker:
10. ICO Soda Siphon
The package includes one-liter aluminum soda siphon, black fork key, but not the carbonator. The model is only compatible with 8g CO2 cartridges from many brands of soda charger.
The most impressive thing about this siphon is its sleek silver design from the cap to the bottle. It is easy to use and easy to clean because it’s dishwasher safe.
Make sure you measure the cold water (less than one liter) before pouring into the bottle. After shaking it up, put it in the fridge. If you want your soda super fizzy, use another cartridge after cooling it down.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Shake manually |
Carbonator | No |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- 1L Aluminum bottle
- Sleek design
- Dishwasher safe
- Cocktail recipe book included
- Good customer service
Cons
- Not durable for more than a year
11. Drinkmate Spritzer Portable Soda Maker
(Best Versatile)
This handheld carbonator coming from Drinkmate is easy to distinguish because of its gun-like design. Drinkmate Soda Maker features beverage carbonator which can carbonate anything.
The package also includes two 10-liter CO2 cylinders which can make 32 bottles of fizzy beverages, 0.5-liter bottle and one Fizz-Infuser. This model is heavier and bigger than normal siphons but it is much more versatile.
After filling the liquid into the bottle, twist it with the infuser. Slide the fizz back into the mount. Pull the trigger three times until you hear the sound. Shake the bottle before flipping the slow and fast release tabs on the infuser.
Make sure you wash the infuser thoroughly under water before putting it away. It is only compatible with Drinkmate bottle and 10-liter or 60-liter CO2 cylinders.
The most surprising thing is you can change the handheld model to countertop soda maker with the portable stand from Drinkmate also.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Black trigger |
Carbonator | 10-liter cylinder |
Warranty | No information |
Pros
- Versatile spritzer
- Portable
- Easy to use
- Can convert from handheld to countertop carbonator
Cons
- Only 0.5-liter bottle
Watch this video to see how to use Drinkmate Spritzer:
12. Drinkmate Beverage Carbonation Maker
(Best Overall)
Recently, regarding healthy fermented beverage, I really like kombucha. The idea of making my homemade kombucha, wine, and champagne bubbly is very tempting to me.
Drinkmate Beverage Carbonation Maker sounds like a great option for me as it can carbonate any beverage from juices, tea, coffee to alcoholic drinks like wine and beer. This is a highly versatile beverage soda maker.
It doesn’t require either electricity or batteries to operate. Open the housing compartment to insert and twist your C02 cylinder. The liquid inside the 1L BPA-free bottle should be filled below the line.
The Drinkmate appliance is compatible with 10L or 60L carbonator cylinders but not 130L. On the bottle, the two markings tell the amount of liquid required for low and maximum carbonation.
What’s special about this beverage maker is the detachable fizz infuser. The infuser serves as a tight cap for the bottle, which ensures airtight carbonation. You decide on the carbonation level by pulsing quicker or longer. When the maker finishes, it makes large sound as a signal.
The valve on top of the infuser is to release the foam level by flipping it slowly. After that, you push the blue button on the infuser to finalize the whole process and use strength to open the infuser.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | Yes, 2 levels on the bottle |
Control type | Pulse |
Carbonator | 10L carbonator cylinder |
Warranty | 2 years |
Pros
- Versatile soda maker
- Available in 3 different colors
- Detachable infuser
- Clear markings on the bottle
Cons
- Infuser needs immediate cleaning
Watch this video if you have problems with using the Drinkmate Beverage Carbonation Maker:
13. IKICH Sparkling Water Maker
(Best for Small Kitchen)
This kit has two one-liter BPA-free bottles and one user manual. Buy the 60-liter CO2 cylinder from local stores.
Available only in black color, the IKICH model is outstanding with its sleek and modern design. Instead of the bulky housing compartment in the back, the upper body needs unlocking from main body to insert CO2 cylinder.
After screwing the canister into the body, rotate the upper part clockwise to lock with the lower part. Snap the bottle onto the CO2 exit. Push the button down for just a few seconds.
If you are worried about the dripping water over your counter, the drip guard tray will take care of that. All bottles from SodaStream are compatible with IKICH. Drinkmate one-liter bottles might work as well.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | Not included |
Warranty | 3 years |
Pros
- Small housing compartment to save space
- Works great will all SodaStream bottles (except glass carafe)
- Two 1L bottles
- Drip guard
Cons
- Compatible with 60-liter CO2 canister only
- C02 cylinder not included
14. Spärkel Beverage System
This kit includes one 0.75-liter reusable bottle and 10 carbonators. What sets it different from other soda makers is its carbonator. Instead of using CO2 cylinder, you pour the Carbonator pack into the head of the maker.
You can put the ingredients directly into the bottle and fill them up with cold water until it reaches the marking. Then, push down the lever, and choose your desired carbonation level from five options. Press start, wait at most 90 seconds, and enjoy.
10 carbonators equal 10 full Sparker bottles (750 ml each). If you run out of carbonators, you can order 90-pack carbonator.
I have made a raw calculation and the result is the carbonator is more expansive than refilling your C02 cylinder. However, you don’t have to spend pennies on syrups.
Another minus is the electricity it consumed. If the bubbles don’t go into the bottle, just push the bottle down until you see the bubbles again.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | Yes, 5 levels |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | 10 |
Warranty | No information |
Pros
- Versatile soda maker
- No C02 cylinder required
- 5 levels of carbonation
- 10 carbonators included
- A wide range of colors
Cons
- Requires electricity
- Flimsy design
- Leaking water
Watch this video to see how to use Spärkel Beverage System:
15. Flavorstation Home Beverage Maker
The package includes a 0.5-liter bottle and 20-ounce CO2 cylinder. This beverage maker can fit into the narrow kitchen with small design around 15-inche height.
Push the carbonation down to let it buzz. If you prefer more fizzy water, push for three or four times. Before buying this maker, find a place (like paintball) to refill your CO2 cylinder.
This model requires no electricity but Primo no longer continued this model.
Product Specification
Carbonation indication | No |
Control type | Pushing button |
Carbonator | 20-ounce CO2 cylinder |
Warranty | No warranty from Primo |
Pros
- No electricity required
- Easy to use
- 20-ounce CO2 cylinder included
- Small design
Cons
- No warranty from Primo anymore
- Flimsy plastic housing
Buying Guide
1. What Features to Consider Before Buying a Soda Maker?
Handheld or Countertop
The two main types on the market are handheld and countertop soda makers. To choose between the two kinds, consider your family’s size, the frequency and the kitchen space.
Handheld soda makers carbonate the water through a couple of small cartridges.
Pros
- Is small
- Takes less space
- Pours the soda directly from the bottle, airtight
Cons
- Takes a longer time with much effort shaking
- Makes less soda water
Countertop soda makers store the large CO2 canister in housing compartment.
Pros
- Pasteurizes more water in shorter period of time
Cons
- Has bulky size
- Leaking CO2
Source of C02
If you want more bubbles with handheld soda makers, use one or two 8g cartridges. This compressed liquefied gas is kept at an appropriate temperature to prevent increase in pressure.
In case of countertop soda makers, there are CO2 cylinders with capacities like 60 liters, 90 liters, 130 liters. The biggest cylinder is only compatible to SodaStream Jet model and some specific models.
Bottle Material and Capacity
The bottle should be BPA-free plastic or glass. One more option is the soda siphon with stainless steel or aluminum material. The capacity of the bottle varies from 0.5 liter, one liter to one-quart siphon.
Carbonating Time
Depends on the amount of carbon pasteurized into water, the soda maker can take from a few seconds to several minutes. If you are busy and your kids are fussing around, you might want to save just a bit of time with quick electric model.
Design
While the handheld siphon adds a more modern and stylish look, the countertop models can add a vintage vibe to your kitchen. Just make sure to prioritize the functions first, and the design later.
Versatility
The more versatile the soda makers, the higher the price. While the primary usage is carbonating water, many soda makers can carbonate wine, tea, coffee, juice and so on. Now, with a variety of choices, you might become addicted to testing all the possibilities with the maker.
What’s more, you can turn water into your favorite soda drink with whatever flavor you like by adding syrup or fresh fruits.
2. How to Clean the Soda Maker?
First, you need to regularly clean the bottle like you normally do with your dishes. If you have the glass carafe, clean it carefully. Rinse the bottle with water, use dishwasher liquid and then rinse thoroughly again. Put them in the rack for drying.
Second, use a damp cloth to wipe the dust off the machine. If you use powered machine, unplug it before cleaning. Check for crevices and the drip guard tray (if the model has).
FAQs
If you have used the soda maker before or just a beginner in this journey, these questions below might answer some of your questions!
My Top Pick
Although I really like the stainless-steel design, I prefer the more versatile Drinkmate Beverage Carbonation Maker. This beverage maker can satisfy my taste with many types of juice, fermented beverages. Furthermore, tight infuser is a great bonus to prevent gas from leaking.
Just comment your favorite soda maker right below and tell me what you think.