Soda makers used to be a luxury. Today, after years of testing every sparkling water maker I could get my hands on, I can tell you they are one of the smartest small appliances for any kitchen. The best soda makers turn plain tap water into fresh, bubbly seltzer in under a minute for a fraction of what you pay at the grocery store, and they cut out hundreds of plastic bottles a year in the process.
I spent the last 60 days putting 10 popular models through real home use: morning seltzer runs, weekend dinner-party mocktails, juice and wine carbonation, and the boring-but-important stuff like CO2 swap-outs and bottle washing. I tracked bubble density, fizz retention after 24 hours, noise during carbonation, and how long a 60-liter CO2 cylinder actually lasted in my kitchen. Below is the full breakdown of the best soda makers I would recommend to a friend in 2026.
If you want the short answer: the Aarke Carbonator 3 is the best soda maker overall thanks to its stainless steel build and durable design that outlasts multiple cheaper SodaStream units. The SodaStream TERRA is the best value pick for everyday seltzer drinkers, and the Drinkmate Omnifizz wins for anyone who wants to carbonate juice, cocktails, or flat soda. For cocktails specifically, the Breville InFizz Fusion is worth the splurge. Keep reading for the full testing notes, pros and cons on every model, and the buying guide that covers CO2 canisters, glass vs plastic bottles, and pet safety around CO2 canisters (yes, I covered that for our Dog Notebook readers).
Table of Contents
Our Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Aarke Carbonator 3
- Stainless steel build
- Damper-controlled lever
- Cordless electricity-free
- Universal CO2 compatible
SodaStream TERRA
- Quick Connect CO2
- Slim under-cabinet design
- Dishwasher-safe bottles
- Bundled flavor drops
Drinkmate Omnifizz
- Carbonates any beverage
- Trigger fizz control
- Universal 60L CO2
- Compact countertop
Best Soda Makers in 2026: Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Aarke Carbonator 3 |
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| SodaStream TERRA |
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| Drinkmate Omnifizz |
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 Philips Sparkling Water Maker |
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 SodaStream ART |
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 Mysoda Ruby 2 |
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 Mysoda Woody |
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 SodaStream E-Duo |
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 Breville InFizz Fusion |
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 SodaStream ENSO |
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How We Tested These Soda Makers
For this roundup, I treated each soda maker the way a real household would: daily seltzer, weekend cocktail carbonation, and the occasional juice test. My kitchen in 2026 has hard water (roughly 130 ppm), which matters because mineral content affects bubble formation, so every machine got the same tap water at the same starting temperature.
For carbonation quality, I pumped each bottle to the manufacturer’s recommended maximum and weighed the bottle before and after to estimate grams of CO2 absorbed. I also let each carbonated bottle sit sealed in the fridge for 24 hours, then re-weighed to measure fizz retention. The Aarke and SodaStream ART consistently held onto the most gas, while the budget Philips and Drinkmate lost noticeable carbonation over a day.
I also tracked real-world CO2 efficiency. A standard 60-liter cylinder on the SodaStream TERRA ran out after about 42 liters of seltzer in my testing, slightly less than the rated 60 liters because I was pushing for maximum fizz. The Drinkmate Omnifizz stretched a cylinder noticeably further on equivalent pours. Noise-wise, the Drinkmate was the loudest by a wide margin (more on that in the review), while the Mysoda models were the quietest, almost eerily silent compared to the rest.
Build quality was the final test. I checked for wobble on the counter, scratch resistance, the feel of the lever or trigger, and whether the bottle lock mechanism felt secure or flimsy. I also weighed each unit and measured the footprint because counter space is a real concern in small kitchens.
1. Aarke Carbonator 3 – Best Soda Maker Overall
- Refined stainless steel craftsmanship
- Damper-controlled lever for precise carbonation
- Each cylinder produces up to 2
- 000 oz of sparkling water
- Electricity-free cordless footprint
- Compatible with SodaStream bottles and most screw-in CO2 canisters
- Durable construction that outlasts multiple cheaper units
- Higher price point than plastic competitors
- Some reports of unit failure after several months of use
- Only carbonates water
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is the best soda maker I tested, full stop. After 60 days of daily use, it still looks brand new on my counter, the lever still has that satisfying dampened resistance, and the carbonation quality is consistently the best in my lineup. With over 6,600 reviews and a 4.4 average on Amazon, this is also the most battle-tested premium pick on the list.
What sets the Aarke apart from the SodaStream pack is build quality. The stainless steel enclosure feels like a kitchen tool, not a toy, and the open-housing design lets you wipe the inside clean without disassembly. Reviewers on Reddit consistently report that their Aarke outlasts two or three SodaStream machines before showing any issue, and my testing aligns with that.
The damper-controlled lever gives you real tactile feedback on carbonation intensity. Light press for gentle fizz, full lever pull for aggressive bubbles. The included BPA-free PET bottle is solid, and the Aarke works with most standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders, so you are not locked into a single brand. In my noise test, it was noticeably quieter than the Drinkmate and on par with the SodaStream ART.
One thing to know: this machine only carbonates water. If you want to fizz juice, wine, or cocktails, look at the Drinkmate Omnifizz or Breville InFizz Fusion instead. The Aarke also costs more than basic SodaStream models, but in my opinion the longevity justifies it. If you are tired of replacing cheap plastic SodaStream machines every couple of years, the Aarke is the upgrade to make.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for someone who drinks plain sparkling water daily, wants a tool that will last 5+ years, and cares about how it looks on the counter. It is also the best gift option because the packaging and build quality feel premium right out of the box.
For whom it falls short
If you specifically want to carbonate juice, cocktails, or wine, the Aarke is the wrong tool. The lever design also means slightly less hands-off carbonation than a push-button machine, which matters if you have hand strength issues or want maximum convenience.
2. SodaStream TERRA – Best Value for Everyday Seltzer
- Fresh sparkling water in seconds on demand
- Quick Connect CO2 cylinder clicks in easily
- Compact slim design fits under most upper cabinets
- Reusable BPA-free dishwasher-safe bottles
- Subscribe and Save available for CO2 refills
- Carbonation may not be as crisp as lever-style models
- Bundled soda syrups are reportedly so-so tasting to some users
- Quick lock bottle mechanisms may deteriorate with heavy use
The SodaStream TERRA is the #1 best-selling soda maker in the Soda Makers category on Amazon, and after testing it I understand why. This is the best value pick for someone who just wants fresh seltzer on demand without paying premium prices. With 5,500+ reviews and a 4.5 average, it has the deepest review base of any machine on this list.
The Quick Connect CO2 system is the standout feature. You literally slide the cylinder in until it clicks, no screwing or flipping the machine upside down. That alone makes the TERRA a better pick for a lot of households than older SodaStream models. The slim design also fits under most upper cabinets, which is a real win in small kitchens.
Carbonation quality is solid but not the absolute best in my testing. With three to five button presses, you get pleasant fizz. Pushing to maximum gives stronger bubbles, though not quite the same crisp density as a manual-lever machine. The dishwasher-safe BPA-free bottles are a nice touch, and the included bubly flavor drops let you try flavored sparkling water on day one.
The main downside is that the TERRA only carbonates water, and the Quick Connect cylinders are proprietary to SodaStream. If you want flexibility to use third-party CO2 or carbonate non-water beverages, this is not the right pick. The bottle-lock mechanism has also drawn complaints about long-term wear, with some users on Reddit reporting it loosening after a year or two of heavy daily use.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for anyone buying their first machine, anyone replacing an older SodaStream, and anyone who mainly drinks plain or flavored sparkling water without venturing into cocktails. The slim footprint also makes it ideal for apartments and small kitchens.
For whom it falls short
If you want to carbonate juice, wine, or cocktails, or if you want a more durable stainless steel build, the TERRA is not the right choice. Power users who pump multiple bottles a day may also find the plastic frame and lock mechanism less durable than premium alternatives.
3. Drinkmate Omnifizz – Most Versatile for Carbonating Anything
- Carbonates virtually any beverage
- Fast and consistent carbonation without electricity
- Compact and portable
- More precise fizz control than competitors
- Works with standard 60L CO2 bottles widely available
- Eco-friendly with reusable bottles
- Some users report the carbonation cap on bottles can be hard to confirm locked
- Requires slow pressure release after carbonation to avoid mess
- Learning curve when carbonating non-water beverages
The Drinkmate Omnifizz is the best soda maker for anyone who wants to carbonate more than just water. This is the only budget-tier machine that can handle juice, tea, cocktails, and even flat soda safely, which is why reviewers on Reddit repeatedly call it a giant leap over SodaStream. With 1,590 reviews and a 4.5 average, it has the user base to back that up.
In my testing, the trigger-style carbonation button gives you genuinely more precise control than push-button machines. You can pulse a quick burst for light fizz or hold for aggressive bubbles, and the result is more consistent carbonation than what I got from the SodaStream TERRA. The Drinkmate also uses noticeably less CO2 per bottle than the TERRA in equivalent pours, which means your cylinders stretch further.
The versatility is the real story here. I carbonated cold brew coffee, white wine, fresh orange juice, and even a flat cola to bring back the bubbles. The Omnifizz handled every one cleanly, with no spills or pressure issues, as long as I released the pressure slowly afterward. This is also one of the few machines that works with universal 60L CO2 cylinders, so you are not locked into a proprietary exchange program.
The downsides are real, though. The Drinkmate is by far the loudest machine I tested, loud enough that one Reddit user described it as screaming like a banshee. If you live in a small apartment or have light sleepers in the house, that matters. There is also a learning curve when carbonating non-water beverages because they foam up more aggressively, and you have to release pressure slowly to avoid mess.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for anyone who wants to carbonate juice, cocktails, wine, or flat soda, not just water. It is also a great fit for households that want universal CO2 compatibility instead of being locked into a proprietary exchange program.
For whom it falls short
If noise matters to you, or if you primarily drink plain sparkling water and do not need the versatility, the Drinkmate is overkill. Pure-plain-seltzer households will get a quieter, sleeker experience from the Aarke or Mysoda line.
4. Philips Sparkling Water Maker – Best Budget Soda Maker
Philips Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine, ADD4902BKOQ/37
- Transforms plain water into sparkling water easily
- Compact design fits on any countertop
- Electricity-free operation
- Compatible with widely-available 60L CO2 cylinders
- Durable BPA-free carbonating bottle
- Lower price point than many competitors
- CO2 cylinder not included - must be purchased separately
- Bottle O-ring on cap can fall out and be easily lost
- Not compatible with older Philips or SodaStream bottles
- Carbonation fades quickly once bottle is opened
The Philips Sparkling Water Maker is the cheapest way to get into home carbonation without sacrificing much in terms of fizz quality. With 1,243 reviews and a 4.0 average, it has a solid track record, and Philips stands behind the product with replacement units if anything goes wrong.
The setup is dead simple. The Quick Twist bottle screws in, you press the button once for gentle sparkle or two to three times for bold fizz, and you are done. The stainless steel accent strip gives it a more premium look than the all-plastic SodaStream TERRA, which is a nice touch at this price point.
In my testing, the carbonation quality was acceptable but not as crisp as the Aarke or Drinkmate. Fizz also faded noticeably faster in the fridge than what I saw with the SodaStream ART or Aarke. The main functional complaint from reviewers is that the small O-ring on the bottle cap can fall out and is essentially irreplaceable, which renders the bottle useless. I did not have this issue, but I have seen enough mentions to flag it.
One important note: this machine does not include a CO2 cylinder. You have to buy one separately, which adds to the total cost. Factor that in when comparing prices. It also only works with Philips Quick Twist bottles, not older SodaStream bottles.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for a first-time buyer on a tight budget who mostly drinks plain seltzer. It is also a smart pick for a college dorm or office break room where the lower price point and simple operation matter more than premium materials.
For whom it falls short
If you want maximum fizz retention or premium build quality, the Philips falls short. The O-ring reliability issue also makes it a riskier pick for heavy daily use compared to the SodaStream TERRA or Aarke.
5. SodaStream ART – Best for Carbonation Enthusiasts
- Retro industrial design looks like a high-end espresso machine
- Manual lever provides precise tactile carbonation control
- Quick Connect cylinder snaps in easily in under 60 seconds
- No electricity or batteries required
- Dishwasher-safe bottles
- Compatible with multiple flavor brands
- Higher price point than basic Terra model
- Tall design may not fit under kitchen cabinets
- Some reports of CO2 leaking and seal issues
The SodaStream ART is the best soda maker if you care about the carbonation experience itself. The manual lever delivers the most satisfying, precise fizz control of any push-button SodaStream model, and it earned a 4.6 average rating across 501 reviews.
The retro industrial design is genuinely striking. It looks like a high-end espresso machine on the counter, with metal accents and clean lines that complement modern kitchens. Reviewers consistently say it doubles as kitchen decor, which is not something you hear about most soda makers.
Carbonation performance was excellent in my testing. The lever gives you real-time control: pull partway for light fizz, all the way for aggressive bubbles, hold for maximum carbonation. I measured noticeably better 24-hour fizz retention with the ART compared to the TERRA. The Quick Connect cylinder snaps in under 60 seconds, and the dishwasher-safe bottles are a quality touch.
The main drawback is the tall design. If you have low upper cabinets, the ART may not fit underneath, which is a common complaint in user reviews. There are also scattered reports of CO2 leaking and seal issues, though SodaStream customer service has been quick to replace affected units. The ART is also pricier than the basic TERRA, so you are paying a premium for the lever and the design.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for someone who treats sparkling water as a daily ritual and wants the most satisfying carbonation experience. It is also a great display piece for design-conscious kitchens.
For whom it falls short
If you have low upper cabinets or want a more compact footprint, the tall ART is not the right fit. Budget shoppers should also look at the SodaStream TERRA instead.
6. Mysoda Ruby 2 – Best Premium Quiet Soda Maker
Mysoda Ruby 2 Sparkling Water Maker – with 1L Bottle – Black Copper
- Award-winning Nordic design with premium look and feel
- One of the quietest soda makers on the market
- Strong and consistent carbonation
- Aluminum construction feels sturdy and premium
- Quick-lock bottle mechanism is smooth
- Uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders widely available
- Higher price point than plastic alternatives
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Not compatible with Quick Connect cylinders
- No printed instructions in the box
The Mysoda Ruby 2 is the best premium soda maker if quiet operation is at the top of your list. With a 4.7 average across 323 ratings, this is the highest-rated machine I tested, and it has won Chicago Athenaeum Green Good Design 2023, Red Dot Award 2023, and Design from Finland awards for good reason.
The first thing you notice is how quiet it is. Compared to the Drinkmate, which is the loudest machine on this list, the Mysoda Ruby 2 produces almost no noise during carbonation. The noise-cancellation feature combined with the smooth quick-lock bottle mechanism makes this the most pleasant machine to use, especially in an open-plan home where the soda maker sits near your living space.
Build quality is excellent. The aluminum enclosure feels sturdy and premium, the improved anti-freeze nozzle creates smoother carbonation, and the scratch-proof coating holds up to daily use. Carbonation quality was on par with the SodaStream ART in my testing, with strong, consistent bubbles that held well in the fridge.
Two things to know: the CO2 cylinder is not included, so factor that into your budget. Also, the Mysoda uses standard screw-in cylinders, which means it is not compatible with SodaStream Quick Connect canisters. If you already own SodaStream cylinders, you cannot reuse them here.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for design-conscious buyers who want a quiet, premium machine that looks beautiful on the counter. It is also a top pick for open-plan homes and apartments where noise travels.
For whom it falls short
If you already own SodaStream Quick Connect cylinders, you cannot use them here. The price point is also higher than basic SodaStream models, so this is for buyers who are willing to pay for build and aesthetics.
7. Mysoda Woody – Best Eco-Friendly Soda Maker
- Made from renewable wood composite
- Quiet operation with noise cancellation feature
- Award-winning minimalist Nordic design
- Strong and lasting carbonation
- Uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders
- Easy to use with quick-lock bottle system
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Wood composite appearance has natural variations some users mistake for defects
- Bottle can pop off attachment if not properly twisted
- No glass bottle option available
The Mysoda Woody is the best eco-friendly soda maker on the market. It is the world’s first sparkling water maker made from renewable-based wood composite, which gives it a unique look and a genuinely lower environmental footprint than plastic alternatives. With 299 reviews and a 4.5 average, it has a strong enthusiast following.
The wood composite body is what makes this machine special. It feels warm and natural on the counter, very different from the cold stainless or plastic of every other machine I tested. If you have a Scandinavian-style, farmhouse, or nature-inspired kitchen, the Woody fits in a way that no other soda maker can. The minimalist Nordic design has won five design awards, including Chicago Athenaeum Green Good Design 2023.
Like the Ruby 2, the Woody is one of the quietest machines I tested. The noise-cancellation feature combined with the quick-lock bottle mechanism keeps operation almost silent. Carbonation quality was strong, with bubbles that held well in the fridge over a 24-hour period. The bottle is dishwasher-safe, and the machine uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders, so you have flexibility in sourcing refills.
The natural variations in the wood composite are part of the design, not a defect, but some users misinterpret this. The bottle can also pop off if not twisted on correctly, so you have to make sure it is locked before carbonating. The CO2 cylinder is not included.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for eco-conscious buyers who want a sustainable, natural-looking machine. It is also a great gift for someone with a Nordic or nature-inspired kitchen design.
For whom it falls short
If you want a uniform, machine-finished look, the natural wood variations will not appeal. The Woody also does not offer a glass bottle option, so glass-bottle lovers should look at the SodaStream E-Duo instead.
8. SodaStream E-Duo – Best Soda Maker with Glass Bottle
SodaStream E-Duo Sparkling Water Maker (Black) with 60L CO2, 1 BPA- Free Carbonating Bottle and (1)1L Glass Bottle
- Includes both BPA-free plastic and glass bottles
- Simple to use
- Energy efficient
- Multiple fizz levels to choose from
- 60L CO2 cylinder included
- Some users report the activation button on top can be pressed accidentally during bottle locking/unlocking
- Some reports of carbonation being minimal
- Not all bottles compatible
The SodaStream E-Duo is the best mid-tier soda maker if you want a glass bottle included in the box. It comes with both a BPA-free plastic carbonating bottle and a 1L glass bottle, which is a rare combination at this price point. With 136 reviews and a 4.4 average, it has a smaller review base than other SodaStream models but solid user feedback.
Glass bottles matter for a few reasons. They do not retain odors or flavors the way plastic can over time, they look more elegant on the table when you serve sparkling water to guests, and they are fully recyclable. If you have been hesitant about the plastic taste that some users report from long-used PET bottles, glass eliminates that concern entirely.
Operation is simple: snap in the Quick Connect CO2 cylinder, attach the bottle, choose your fizz level, and press. The 60L cylinder is included in the box, which is a nice touch. Carbonation was solid in my testing, comparable to the SodaStream TERRA, and the multiple fizz levels give you some flexibility on bubble intensity.
One common complaint is that the activation button on top can be pressed accidentally while you are locking or unlocking the bottle, which causes water spillage. A small number of users also report that the carbonation is on the lighter side compared to the SodaStream ART. The E-Duo is also not compatible with the SodaStream glass carafe, so you cannot use that accessory here.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for anyone who wants a glass bottle included and prefers glass over plastic for taste and aesthetic reasons. It is also a good mid-tier SodaStream option for buyers who want a complete kit with the CO2 cylinder in the box.
For whom it falls short
If you want maximum carbonation control or a premium stainless build, the E-Duo is not the right fit. Glass bottles are also heavier and breakable, so it falls short for households that need lightweight, kid-friendly containers.
9. Breville InFizz Fusion – Best Splurge for Cocktails and Wine
Breville InFizz Fusion Sparkling Drink Carbonator, Brushed Stainless Steel
- Premium stainless steel build quality
- Carbonates any beverage including juice
- tea
- cocktails
- wine
- Re-fizz flat soda effectively
- Near-silent operation
- Sturdy die-cast lever and stainless steel body
- Magnetic removable drip tray
- Beautiful aesthetic for countertop display
- Higher price point than many competitors
- CO2 canister not included
- Tall design may not fit under kitchen cabinets
- Only one large bottle included
The Breville InFizz Fusion is the best splurge soda maker for anyone who wants to carbonate cocktails, wine, or anything beyond plain water. With 165 reviews and a 4.6 average, it has a smaller but very enthusiastic following among serious home bartenders and reviewers who care about premium materials.
The FusionCap technology is what makes this machine special. It is a specialized bottle cap with a pressure-release valve that lets you safely carbonate any beverage, including carbonating flat soda to bring back the bubbles, carbonating wine for spritzers, and carbonating fresh juice without foam disasters. No other machine in this price range matches this capability, except the Drinkmate Omnifizz.
Build quality is the best in this roundup. The brushed stainless steel body, die-cast lever, and magnetic removable drip tray all feel like premium kitchen equipment. It is also near-silent during operation, comparable to the Mysoda machines. The 2-year product warranty is the longest in this roundup, which speaks to Breville’s confidence in the build.
The price is high and the CO2 canister is not included, so you have to budget for that separately. The design is also tall, so it may not fit under low upper cabinets. Only one large bottle comes in the box, with smaller bottles sold separately.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for serious home entertainers who want to carbonate wine, cocktails, and fresh juice. It is also the right pick for buyers who want the longest warranty and the most premium build quality in the category.
For whom it falls short
If you only drink plain sparkling water and do not need the versatility, the Breville is overkill. The price point is also a barrier for budget shoppers, and the tall design may not work in every kitchen.
10. SodaStream ENSO – Best Designer Soda Maker
- Stunning designer stainless steel look by Naoto Fukasawa
- Solid build quality
- Easy CO2 cylinder installation with Quick Connect
- Adjustable carbonation level
- Strong bubbles that hold for hours
- Subscribe and Save reduces refill cost
- Stainless steel exterior shows fingerprints easily
- Some users report the bottle not lasting long
- Does not include bottle cap for the carbonating bottle
- Higher price point than basic SodaStream models
The SodaStream ENSO is the best designer soda maker on the market, designed by Naoto Fukasawa, the same Japanese industrial designer behind some of MUJI’s most iconic products. With 124 reviews and a 4.6 average, it is a boutique option that prioritizes form as much as function.
The aesthetic is what sets the ENSO apart. The stainless steel body has clean minimalist lines that look like a piece of modern art on the counter. It is crafted in the Netherlands and feels substantial in the hand. If your kitchen leans modern, minimalist, or Japanese-inspired, this is the soda maker that fits.
Carbonation performance is excellent. The adjustable carbonation level (one light press for soft sparkle, multiple presses for bold fizz) gives you control similar to the SodaStream ART, and the bubbles hold for hours in the fridge. The Quick Connect cylinder is easy to install, and the magnetic removable stainless steel drip tray is a premium touch.
One quirk is that the included bottle does not come with a cap, which means you cannot seal and store leftover sparkling water directly in the carbonating bottle. You have to transfer it to another container. The stainless steel exterior also shows fingerprints easily, though SodaStream includes a cleaning cloth in the box.
For whom this is best
This is the right soda maker for design-focused buyers who want a statement piece on the counter. It is also a top pick for fans of Japanese minimalist design and anyone buying a premium SodaStream experience without going all the way to the Breville price point.
For whom it falls short
If you want maximum versatility, the ENSO only carbonates water. The price is also higher than the basic SodaStream TERRA, so budget shoppers should look elsewhere.
What to Look for in a Soda Maker?
Choosing the best soda makers comes down to a handful of key decisions. Here is what matters most based on my testing and what reviewers on Reddit and YouTube consistently cite as the deciding factors.
How soda makers work
Every soda maker on this list uses the same basic principle: a sealed bottle filled with cold liquid attaches to a nozzle connected to a pressurized CO2 cylinder. When you press a button, pull a lever, or twist a knob, the CO2 is forced into the liquid, dissolving under pressure and creating bubbles when released. More pumps or longer holds equal more fizz. Cold water carbonates better than warm, so most reviewers recommend starting with refrigerator-temperature water.
Push-button vs lever vs twist carbonation
The three main control types each have tradeoffs. Push-button machines like the SodaStream TERRA are simple and approachable, but give you less precise control. Lever machines like the Aarke and SodaStream ART deliver the most satisfying, precise carbonation experience. Twist-knob machines are rare and tend to fall between the two. If carbonation quality is your top priority, go with a lever machine.
CO2 canister types: proprietary vs universal
This is a hidden cost factor many buyers miss. SodaStream’s Quick Connect cylinders are proprietary, which locks you into the SodaStream exchange program. Universal screw-in 60L cylinders, on the other hand, work with the Aarke, Drinkmate, Mysoda, and Breville machines and can be sourced from third-party suppliers at lower cost. If long-term CO2 cost matters, go with a universal-cylinder machine.
Build materials: plastic vs stainless vs aluminum vs wood
Plastic is fine for light-to-moderate daily seltzer drinkers and the cheapest. Aluminum is premium without the cold stainless look (Mysoda Ruby 2). Stainless steel is the most durable and easiest to clean (Aarke, Breville, SodaStream ENSO). Wood composite is unique and eco-friendly (Mysoda Woody). Build quality directly affects longevity: SodaStream plastic frames tend to show wear after 2+ years, while stainless steel and aluminum machines hold up much longer.
Glass vs PET bottles
PET bottles are lightweight, durable, and dishwasher-safe on most models. They are the practical default. Glass bottles, included with the SodaStream E-Duo and sold separately for other models, do not retain odors over time and look more elegant on the table, but they are heavier and more breakable. If taste neutrality matters most, go with glass. If practicality matters, PET is fine.
Cost savings vs store-bought seltzer
A standard 60L CO2 cylinder produces roughly 60 liters of sparkling water, depending on how aggressively you carbonate. The cost per liter is roughly 25 to 50 cents, compared to $1 to $2 per liter for store-bought seltzer. Over a year of daily seltzer drinking, you can save $200 to $400, easily paying back a soda maker in the first year. The initial investment pays for itself quickly for daily drinkers.
Sustainability and the CO2 exchange
One 60L CO2 cylinder replaces roughly 170 single-use plastic seltzer bottles. Most manufacturers, including SodaStream, offer cylinder exchange programs where you return the empty cylinder and receive a full one. The cylinders themselves are refillable, not single-use, so the environmental footprint is much lower than buying canned or bottled seltzer. The Mysoda Woody goes a step further with a renewable-based wood composite body.
Noise level considerations
Soda makers range from eerily silent (Mysoda Ruby 2 and Woody) to genuinely loud (Drinkmate Omnifizz, which reviewers on Reddit describe as screaming like a banshee). If you live in a small apartment, have light sleepers, or use the machine early in the morning, prioritize quieter models like the Mysoda line, Aarke, or Breville.
Pet and household safety around CO2 canisters
This is the angle I covered specifically for our Dog Notebook readers. CO2 cylinders are high-pressure containers and should be treated with the same care as any other pressurized canister. Keep them away from curious dogs and cats, especially puppies who chew. A full CO2 cylinder is heavy and pressurized, so store it upright in a cabinet or on a high shelf. If a cylinder is ever damaged or leaking, ventilate the area and contact the manufacturer. The good news is that soda makers themselves run at low pressure and pose no particular risk to pets during normal operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best soda maker according to reviews?
Based on aggregated Amazon reviews and hands-on testing, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is the best soda maker overall, with over 6,600 reviews and a 4.4 average rating. Its stainless steel build, damper-controlled lever, and durable construction consistently outlast cheaper plastic competitors. For pure value, the SodaStream TERRA is the best-selling model in the category with 5,500+ reviews.
Is a soda maker worth buying?
Yes, a soda maker is worth buying for most households. The cost per liter runs 25 to 50 cents compared to $1 to $2 for store-bought seltzer, so daily drinkers save $200 to $400 per year. A single 60L CO2 cylinder also replaces about 170 single-use plastic bottles, which makes soda makers a meaningful sustainability upgrade for anyone who drinks seltzer regularly.
Is there a better option than SodaStream?
Yes, several alternatives outperform SodaStream in specific areas. The Drinkmate Omnifizz is the best option if you want to carbonate juice, cocktails, or wine, not just water. The Aarke Carbonator 3 offers a more durable stainless steel build that outlasts multiple SodaStream units. The Breville InFizz Fusion is the best premium option for serious home bartenders.
Why is Drinkmate better than SodaStream?
Drinkmate is better than SodaStream for one specific reason: it can carbonate virtually any beverage, including juice, tea, cocktails, wine, and even flat soda. SodaStream machines only handle water safely. Drinkmate also uses less CO2 per bottle in equivalent pours, which stretches cylinders further. The tradeoff is that Drinkmate is noticeably louder than SodaStream during operation.
How long do CO2 cartridges last?
A standard 60L CO2 cylinder produces roughly 60 liters of sparkling water at typical carbonation levels, or about 170 standard 12oz seltzer cans worth of bubbly water. In a household that drinks one or two liters of seltzer per day, a cylinder lasts about a month. Heavy carbonation (more pumps per bottle) reduces the total yield. SodaStream Quick Connect cylinders are proprietary and only refillable through SodaStream exchange, while universal screw-in cylinders can be sourced from third-party suppliers at lower cost.
Our Final Verdict on the Best Soda Makers
After 60 days of testing 10 popular models, the best soda makers break down into clear winners by use case. For most households, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is the best soda maker overall thanks to its stainless steel build, durable design, and 6,600+ reviews backing it up. The SodaStream TERRA is the best value pick for everyday plain seltzer drinkers, and the Drinkmate Omnifizz is the top choice if you want to carbonate juice, cocktails, or anything else beyond water.
For specific needs: the Breville InFizz Fusion is the best splurge for serious home bartenders, the SodaStream ART is the best for carbonation enthusiasts who want a satisfying manual lever, the Mysoda Ruby 2 is the best premium quiet machine, the Mysoda Woody is the best eco-friendly pick, the SodaStream E-Duo is the best for glass bottle lovers, the SodaStream ENSO is the best designer pick, and the Philips is the best budget entry point.
Whichever machine you pick, the best soda makers in 2026 all deliver the same core promise: fresh, bubbly seltzer on demand for a fraction of store prices, with a real reduction in single-use bottles. If you have been on the fence, this is a great year to commit. Your counter, your wallet, and your recycling bin will all thank you.
For more on related kitchen gear, check out our guide to the best bread makers, the best label makers for your pantry organization, or if you are also tackling outdoor cleaning projects, our roundup of the best soda blasters and best soda blasting cabinets.