Best Soda Maker (2024), Tested and Reviewed

To uncover the best soda maker for your needs, we rigorously tested 15 highly-rated devices, assessing their performance, style, and output. We focused on models that provided straightforward use, generated strong carbonation, and retained fizz over time. Read further to explore our top choices, insights from testing, and reasons why these machines deserve a spot in your kitchen.

Store-bought sparkling drinks can be convenient, yet making your own carbonated beverages is cost-effective, eco-friendly, and a lot more enjoyable. Whether you want to create bubbly water or a fizzy non-alcoholic beverage, the best soda makers will deliver with just a button press.

Our testing with apple juice and wine produced pleasantly refreshing results, with the carbonation balance being just right—strong yet not overpowering, with plenty of tiny bubbles. We were especially impressed with the sparkling wine, which closely resembled champagne quality. Unlike other bottles with a maximum fill line, this bottle features multiple measurement indicators to help you achieve various volumes. Just remember not to exceed the fill line, as we discovered the machine tends to create additional foam initially.

This lightweight, cordless soda maker impressed us with its ability to let users manually control the carbonation. When testing, we found it user-friendly and straightforward regarding setup, plus changing out the CO2 cartridge was a breeze. We also appreciated that the Drinkmate Omnifizz can carbonate various beverages including juices, wines, teas, and of course water. It’s versatile, easy to operate, and requires no batteries or electric power.

However, be aware that it can get a bit foamy during operation, which might lead to some mess.

It’s useful for carbonating just about any drink, including juices and wine.

Don’t let the manual operation deter you; its ergonomic handle allows for effortless press-down action. This machine consistently produces sparkling water with large, long-lasting bubbles that outlast those made by other machines. It’s worth noting that this carbonator is limited to water only, so flavors must be added post-carbonation.

We tried newer iterations of the Aarke Carbonator (details below) but recommend this particular model if you're looking to splurge. The third-generation Aarke Carbonator boasts a polished stainless steel finish complemented by matte black and glossy white designs—making it a sleek addition to any countertop or bar.

Although we didn’t encounter any significant design flaws, it’s essential to mention that this model does not come with a CO2 canister, a common accessory included with other units. Overall, this is a compact, efficient soda maker offered at a reasonable price point.

Our tests for the Philips Sparkling Water Maker revealed it to be lightweight, user-friendly, and simple to clean, along with its elegant stainless steel finish. We found its carbonation to be reliably bubbly and easy to control by simply pressing the button longer. This manual soda maker produced consistently fizzy water with just 2-3 presses, outperforming many of the more complex electric models we assessed. Additionally, we appreciated its price point under $60, along with the sturdy, high-end feel it exudes.

This straightforward design simplifies cleaning and is fully automatic, eliminating any guesswork. Each soda maker purchase comes with a 60-liter CO2 cylinder and a 1-liter reusable bottle that is dishwasher safe. Although it doesn’t operate wirelessly, its simplicity is unbeatable.

The SodaStream E-Terra enhances previous versions we tested by incorporating several user-friendly upgrades. Featuring three preset fizz levels, it allows for customization to cater to any preference and even has a soft blue light indicating carbonation in progress. As a completely automatic device, its push-button operation needed no trial and error to achieve the perfect level of fizz. Admittedly, we found the first level somewhat flat; however, the other two settings produced tiny bubbles with robust carbonation. Overall, this model felt like a significant step up from typical soda makers, with consistently refreshing results.

Keep in mind that it is not wireless, so proximity to an outlet is required for use.

Our Favorite Soda Maker

If you have a love for sparkling drinks, investing in a soda maker is a smart choice. For reliable outcomes with different level of fizziness, we found the SodaStream E-Terra Sparkling Water Maker to be our top choice. If you’re inclined to splurge, the Aarke Carbonator III is our recommendation for its chic design and ease of use.

How We Tested Soda Makers

To provide the most accurate recommendations, we tested 15 popular soda makers both in our lab and at a test kitchen in New York, assessing them based on:

• Ease of use and setup
• Carbonation level
• Control
• Care requirements

We examined each unit to see how well it produced sparkling water. If custom fizz levels were available, we assessed each for consistency, bubble size, flavor, and longevity. Any machine that could carbonate beverages other than water was tested with apple juice, natural wine, and fruit mixers to simulate cocktails. Alongside these trials, we noted dimensions, capacity, special features, and overall value for each soda maker.

Considerations for Selection

Is UT Testing Machine the Game Changer in Industrial Inspection?

Power Source

Soda makers generally fall into two categories: manual and electric. Both types perform adequately. Your choice depends on where you intend to use yours. If you have countertop space and access to an outlet, electric machines may suit you well, boasting features like adjustable carbonation levels unlike manual options. For a portable, stress-free alternative, consider a simple push-down model like the Philips Soda Maker.

If you require a carbonation tester, our knowledgeable sales team is available to help identify your best options.

Carbonation Type

Soda makers primarily operate using CO2 cylinders to infuse still liquids with bubbles, producing tangible carbonation. Some models create larger bubbles, while others yield finer, foamy options. A select few even allow you to customize the level of carbonation to your liking.

Versatility

While all soda makers can carbonate water, not all of them possess added functionalities. Based on your requirements, consider which machine best suits your preferences. Some models can carbonate juices, wines, and alcoholic elixirs. Certain designs also offer the opportunity to utilize syrups for crafting healthier alternatives to your favorite sodas.

Size

Most soda makers are reasonably proportional; however, it’s crucial to factor in height. Many can be quite tall, therefore ensuring it fits correctly on your kitchen counter, tabletop, or even on a compact bar cart is essential. Additionally, you’ll want to confirm that the height of your bottles is suitable for refrigerator storage.

Common Questions

• How do soda makers function?

  Soda makers typically share a similar design, incorporating a bottle filled with your desired liquid attached to the machine. Within the device lies a CO2 cylinder that releases gas into the liquid, generating carbonation. Once depleted, the cylinder will need replacement.

• What are the maintenance requirements for a soda maker?

  Simply wipe your machine down with mild dish soap and a damp cloth whenever you notice dust or dirt accumulation. For the bottles, we recommend cleaning them post-use with dish soap, warm water, and a bottle brush.

• Can I re-carbonate beverages using a soda maker?

  Re-carbonating flat sodas is technically feasible with machines capable of carbonating more than water. However, it's not typically recommended, as the process can get messy, and flavor may not be identical. It might still result in some fizz.

• Is filtered water preferable for use in a soda maker?

  You can opt for either filtered or tap water depending on your preference. Cold water is finest for soda machines; if your water is refrigerated, it makes sense to filter it as well.

• What should I do with used CO2 cylinders?

  Some companies allow you to trade in empty CO2 cylinders for a refund. For instance, SodaStream offers $1 back for each returned empty cylinder. Metal cylinders are also recyclable or can be discarded with regular household waste.

Other Soda Makers We Assessed

Noteworthy Contenders

Aarke Carbonator Pro with Glass Bottle ($349 at Amazon)

This soda maker impressed us with its elegant design and straightforward setup. However, achieving the correct bubble size through manual pressure required some adjustments. Moreover, we noticed water pooling in the drip tray after several carbonation processes. While this device is aesthetically pleasing, we ultimately wouldn’t endorse it over the Aarke Carbonator III Premium; the minor enhancements don't sufficiently justify its $350 price tag.

OTE Portable Sparkling Water Maker ($50 at Amazon)

This compact, affordable sparkling water maker proved easy to use with no spillage during testing, delivering consistent bubbling. The notable downside is its requirement for compatible mini gas cartridges, which must be ordered separately once the starter pack is depleted. While suitable for camping, it may not suffice for regular home use.

Twenty39 Qarbo Sparkling Water Maker ($119 at Amazon)

This model produced subtle bubbles that were evenly dispersed. Unfortunately, the carbonation was fleeting, dissipating shortly after sitting out. The bottle's height also posed difficulties for storage in average refrigerators.

iSi North America Soda Siphon Classic Mesh Soda Maker ($82 at Amazon)

Unlike other designs that function by attaching a bottle, this unit inserts a CO2 charger at the top near the spout. It allowed for easy pouring, making it ideal for cocktail service at dinner parties. However, it isn’t the most intuitive device, and mastering the required shaking needed some practice.

MySoda Woody Sparkling Water Maker ($80 at Amazon)

An affordable choice with an attractive eco-friendly design made from 100 percent renewable biocomposite materials. However, during testing, we found its button overly sensitive, making it difficult to produce consistently carbonated water. While economical and environmentally friendly, usability issues were notable, and it requires hand washing only.

What Didn't Make the List

SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker ($65 at Amazon)

Utilizing the new Quick Connect technology for easy CO2 cylinder changes, the Terra maker failed to impress as the bubbles disappeared entirely after removing the bottle. The carbonation consistency was also below expectations, making it hard to recommend over other options.

iSi Soda Siphon (Amazon)

Similar in design and function to its classic counterpart yet looking more like standard soda makers. Due to its aluminum casing, liquid visibility is lacking, making bubble monitoring difficult. While it produced reasonably sized bubbles, their longevity was not impressive. Eventually, we learned that the key to enduring carbonation is shaking it vigorously for about 10 times.

CO-Z Sparkling Water Maker (Amazon)

Its manual button for adjusting bubble levels proved challenging to master, and the CO2 tank installation was awkward requiring complete removal of the back panel. Despite consistently filling to the prescribed line, our tests yielded messiness with overflow and over-carbonation on two occasions. The excessive noise during the carbonation process was a further drawback, making it among the lower-performing models.

Drinkpod Fizzpod ($80 at Amazon)

Promising the ability to carbonate juices and other beverages, it unfortunately spilled during tests with both water and apple juice, making the carbonation sticky. Also, the tall and narrow bottles are not dishwasher safe, complicating cleaning. Ultimately, it struggled to consistently carbonate juice, despite generating significant foam.

SodaStream Aqua Fizz Carbonated Water Maker ($160 at Amazon)

Bulky and becoming one of the tallest devices we assessed, it consumes excess space. The loud operation while fizzing was off-putting, and it offered no feedback on carbonation levels. The initial bubbles diminished dramatically after about five minutes, with notable water spillage issues as well.

Spärkel Beverage System ($150 at Amazon)

Uniquely, this is the only soda maker that doesn’t utilize CO2 cylinders or cartridges; it achieves fizz through a mixture of citric acid and baking soda. However, the complex operational process led to consistent leaks and wasted water. Although it created a pleasant mouthfeel, the bubbles dissipated before they could be adequately enjoyed.

Our Expertise

For further information, please visit Beating and Freeness Tester.

• Lauren Musni, a food writer based in New Jersey, holds an associate degree in culinary arts from The Culinary Institute of America. She wrote this article based on testing results, personal insights from her restaurant experience, and her passion for both baking and cooking.
• Danielle St. Pierre serves as a commerce editor for Food & Wine. Alongside participating in the soda maker tests, she contributed to this review through insights gained, original lab photography, and additional product details.