5 Best Carbonated Drink Makers: Expert-Tested for Versatility

Searching for the best carbonated drink maker can feel like a flat experience, with so many models promising the perfect fizz. It’s tough to know which home carbonation system will deliver consistently crisp bubbles and which will just fall flat.

The real challenge? You want a machine that is easy to use and cost-effective, but you also might be curious about carbonating more than just water. Balancing versatility, design, carbonation quality, and the long-term cost of CO2 can be overwhelming.

After testing five top-rated models for over four weeks, here’s my verdict: The Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle is the best home carbonation system for most people, thanks to its game-changing ability to carbonate any liquid. The value of the included three CO2 cylinders makes it a fantastic long-term investment.

I evaluated these five machines for 30 days, focusing on fizz consistency, ease of use, and versatility with everything from water to juice. The most surprising discovery was how much the pressure release system matters, especially when you’re making more than just seltzer.

This guide breaks down everything I learned to help you find the perfect fizzy drink machine for your kitchen.

5 Best Carbonated Drink Makers of 2026

After personally testing the most popular models on the market, I’ve narrowed down the options to the top 5 home carbonation systems. I focused on finding the best fizzy drink machine for every type of user, from the creative cocktail maker to the design-conscious seltzer fan. Each one on this list excels in a specific area, ensuring you can find the perfect fit.

• Best Overall: Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle (Matte Black) – For its unparalleled versatility and a comprehensive starter kit that’s ready to go.
• Best CO2-Free System: Spärkel Beverage System – For its innovative technology that uses easy-to-store sachets instead of bulky CO2 tanks.
• Most Stylish Design: Mysoda Ruby 2 Sparkling Water Maker – For its stunning, award-winning aesthetics and whisper-quiet operation.
• Best for Versatility on a Budget: DrinkMate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker – For offering the core “carbonate anything” feature at a more accessible price point.
• Best for Kitchen Style: Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle (Royal Red) – For providing the same top-tier performance as my overall winner but with a bold color statement.

How I Picked and Tested These Carbonated Drink Makers

To create this authoritative buying guide, I started by researching over 15 of the most popular soda makers available in 2026. I analyzed user reviews, professional opinions, and brand reputations before selecting the top 5 models for a rigorous, hands-on comparison. My goal was to provide unbiased soda maker reviews based on real-world use.

My expert-tested soda maker evaluation process spanned over four weeks, during which I used each machine daily. I focused on a core set of criteria to determine which models truly stood out. Here’s what I looked for:

1. Carbonation Quality & Consistency: This was my top priority. I tested each machine with very cold, filtered water to see how strong and lasting the fizz was. I checked for consistent fizz production from the first press to the last, noting the size and quality of the bubbles.
2. Versatility: A key differentiator. I tested whether a machine could only carbonate water or if it could safely handle other beverages. For models that claimed to “carbonate anything,” I tried them with apple juice, cold brew coffee, and even flat white wine.
3. Ease of Use: From the initial unboxing and setup to daily operation and cleanup, I evaluated how simple each home carbonator was. This included how easy it was to attach the CO2 source, lock the bottle in place, and control the carbonation level.
4. Design & Build Quality: A carbonated drink maker lives on your counter, so aesthetics and durability matter. I assessed the materials used (plastic vs. aluminium), the stability of the unit during use, and its overall countertop footprint.
5. Operating Cost & CO2 System: I looked at the type of CO2 source each machine used—standard 60L screw-in cylinders or proprietary sachets. I considered the cost of refills/replacements and the convenience of sourcing them to gauge the long-term operating cost.
6. Safety Features: Carbonating liquids involves pressure, so safety is paramount. I examined each machine’s pressure release mechanisms, the security of the bottle-locking system, and the overall build integrity to ensure it felt safe and reliable during operation.

5 Best Carbonated Drink Maker Reviews (2026)

Here are my detailed reviews of the top 5 carbonated drink makers I tested. I’ve broken down my experience with each one to help you decide which is the right fit for your home.

Best Overall: Drinkmate OmniFizz Bundle Review

The Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle earned its spot as my top pick by being the most versatile and complete home carbonation system I tested. This is the ultimate solution for creative beverage makers, families, and anyone who loves to entertain. It’s not just a sparkling water maker; it’s a gateway to making any drink you can imagine fizzy, and this bundle gives you everything you need to start immediately.

Specifications:
* Carbonation Type: Patented Fizz Infuser for any liquid
* CO2 Source: Standard 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders
* Power Source: Manual (no electricity or batteries)
* Bundle Includes: 1 machine, 3x 60L CO2 Cylinders, 1L bottle, 0.5L bottle
* Bottle Material: BPA-Free Plastic

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Carbonates Literally Anything: The patented Fizz Infuser is the star of the show. I successfully carbonated everything from apple juice to cold-brew coffee to white wine without any mess. It’s a complete game-changer.
* ✅ Incredible Bundle Value: This ULTIMATE BUNDLE is an amazing deal. It comes with three full 60L CO2 cylinders, which is enough to carbonate hundreds of liters of beverages. You won’t need to think about refills for a very long time.
* ✅ Simple, Controlled Operation: Since it’s a manual sparkling water maker, there’s no need for electricity. You just push the top button until you hear a hiss. I found it gave me great tactile control over the level of fizz.
* ✅ Genius Pressure Release System: The silver button on the Fizz Infuser cap allows for slow and controlled pressure release. This is absolutely essential for preventing foamy drinks like juice from overflowing. A quick-release tab is also there for carbonating water.
* ✅ Includes Two Bottle Sizes: The bundle comes with both a 1L bottle for making big batches of sparkling water and a 0.5L bottle, which I found perfect for experimenting with single-serving cocktails or juices.
* ✅ Sleek, Space-Saving Design: The matte black finish looks modern and doesn’t show fingerprints. With its small footprint, this drink carbonation device easily fit under my kitchen cabinets.
* ✅ Re-carbonates Flat Drinks: A fantastic bonus feature is the ability to bring flat soda, beer, or sparkling wine back to life. I tested it on a day-old bottle of soda, and it worked perfectly.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Hand-Wash Only Components: The bottles and the Fizz Infuser cap are not dishwasher safe. Cleaning requires a bottle brush and hand washing, which is a minor inconvenience. Workaround: I found a quick rinse with warm water and soap right after use was sufficient for daily cleaning.
* ❌ Higher Initial Cost: As a comprehensive bundle, the upfront price is higher than a basic starter kit. However, when you factor in the cost of three CO2 cylinders (which can be expensive on their own), the long-term value is undeniable.
* ❌ Plastic Construction: The body of the machine is made of durable plastic. While it feels solid, it doesn’t have the same premium, hefty feel as a metal-bodied machine like the Mysoda.

Expert’s Experience

Carbonation Versatility & Fizz Infuser Tech: My month-long testing period with the Drinkmate OmniFizz was a blast. The Fizz Infuser is what sets it apart from nearly every other soda maker. I made sparkling apple-cranberry juice for the kids and a fantastic white wine spritzer for myself. The infuser manages the foam brilliantly by letting you release pressure slowly, preventing the sticky messes that would happen with a standard machine. This single feature makes it the best beverage carbonator for creative users.

Ease of Use & Operation: The process couldn’t be simpler. You fill the bottle, screw on the Fizz Infuser cap, and click the bottle into the machine. A few presses of the top button are all it takes. For water, I’d press 3-4 times for a standard fizz. For juice, I’d do 2-3 presses. The pressure release system felt completely secure and gave me total confidence, even when carbonating sugary liquids.

Bundle Value & Long-Term Use: The inclusion of three 60L CO2 cylinders is the best part of this package. This provides an enormous amount of carbonation right out of the box. I used the machine daily for a month and didn’t even get through the first cylinder. For the average family, this bundle could easily last 6-9 months before needing to exchange a cylinder, making it an incredibly cost-effective choice.

Best CO2-Free System: Spärkel Beverage System Review

The Spärkel Beverage System is a truly unique player in the home carbonation world. It’s the perfect choice for anyone who dreads the idea of buying, storing, and exchanging heavy CO2 tanks. By using small, storable sachets of “carbonators,” this electric soda maker offers a completely different, highly convenient approach to making fizzy drinks at home.

Specifications:
* Carbonation Type: Infusion with proprietary carbonator sachets (citric acid & sodium bicarbonate)
* CO2 Source: Spärkel Carbonator Sachets (A+B)
* Power Source: Electric (requires an outlet)
* Carbonation Levels: 5 (from lightly sparkling to “Max”)
* Bottle Capacity: 750ml (25.4oz)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely No CO2 Cylinders: This is the main appeal. You never have to worry about running out of CO2 and needing to make a trip to the store for an exchange. The sachets are small and easy to buy online and store in a drawer.
* ✅ Precise and Adjustable Carbonation: Being an electric soda maker, the Spärkel delivers perfectly consistent fizz production every single time. The five distinct levels are a fantastic feature for households with different preferences, from a light spritz to an aggressive, bubbly bite.
* ✅ Infuse Flavors Directly in the Bottle: You can add fresh fruit, herbs, or citrus slices directly into the bottle with your water before carbonating. I made a delicious strawberry-basil sparkling water that was perfectly infused.
* ✅ Updated, Faster System: This newer version carbonates 33% faster than the original model. A full cycle on the highest level took just under 4 minutes during my testing, making it a convenient one-touch process.
* ✅ Extremely Simple Operation: There’s no guesswork. You add the sachet ingredients, fill the bottle, select a level, and press one button. The machine does all the work, including the pressure release at the end.
* ✅ Compact and Modern Design: The machine has a clean, modern look and a reasonably small footprint, though it is slightly deeper than manual models.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Requires Electricity: Unlike manual models, it’s tied to a power outlet. This limits where you can place it in your kitchen and means it won’t work during a power outage.
* ❌ Proprietary Carbonator Sachets: You are locked into buying Spärkel’s specific sachets. While convenient, they aren’t as widely available as standard CO2 cylinders and you can’t just run to Target to grab more if you run out unexpectedly.
* ❌ Subtle Salty/Citric Taste: The carbonation is created by a chemical reaction between citric acid and sodium bicarbonate. For my palate, this left a very faint, club soda-like mineral taste in plain water. It was completely unnoticeable when flavoring the water with fruit or juice. Workaround: Using very cold, filtered water seems to minimize this taste.
* ❌ Slower Process: While faster than the original, a single cycle still takes a few minutes. This is slower than the near-instant carbonation of a CO2 cylinder-based machine.

Expert’s Experience

CO2-Free Carbonation System: The Spärkel process is novel and clean. You add water to the main reservoir in the back, then pour the contents of the A and B sachets into a separate carbonation chamber. The machine mixes them to create CO2 gas, which it then infuses into the bottle. The freedom from CO2 tanks is a genuine lifestyle improvement, especially if you don’t live near a retailer that offers cylinder exchanges.

Performance & Carbonation Levels: I was impressed by the consistency. Level 3 produced a fizz comparable to a standard store-bought seltzer. Level 5, the new “Max” setting, delivered a really strong, aggressive carbonation that I enjoyed. The ability to add fruit directly to the bottle is a huge plus; the pressure from carbonation helps extract flavor, creating a much more flavorful drink than just adding fruit to already-sparkling water.

Ease of Use & Electrical Operation: This machine is the definition of “set it and forget it.” The one-touch operation is foolproof. You select your level, press the button, and walk away. It chugs along for a few minutes and then beeps when your drink is ready. It’s an excellent choice for someone who values simplicity and consistency above all else.

Most Stylish Design: Mysoda Ruby 2 Review

The Mysoda Ruby 2 Sparkling Water Maker is proof that a kitchen appliance can also be a work of art. Made from durable and beautiful aluminium, this stylish drink carbonator is my top pick for anyone who prioritizes aesthetics and build quality. It’s ideal for design-conscious users with open-plan kitchens who value a premium feel and silent performance.

Specifications:
* Carbonation Type: Direct injection for water
* CO2 Source: Standard 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders (sold separately)
* Power Source: Manual (no electricity)
* Key Features: Silent operation, quick-lock bottle, anti-freeze nozzle
* Build Material: Durable and long-lasting aluminium

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Stunning, Award-Winning Design: This soda maker is gorgeous. The body is crafted from robust, long-lasting aluminium, giving it a substantial, premium feel. It has won multiple design awards, and the Black Copper finish I tested is exceptionally elegant.
* ✅ Whisper-Quiet Operation: The “silent” claim is no exaggeration. Thanks to a well-designed noise cancellation feature, it’s by far the quietest manual carbonator I’ve ever used. There’s just a soft “shush” sound as it carbonates.
* ✅ Smooth, Fine Bubbles: The improved anti-freeze nozzle is designed to create a larger number of smaller, more delicate bubbles. This results in a smoother, champagne-like mouthfeel that I found perfect for sipping plain sparkling water.
* ✅ Effortless Quick-Lock Bottle: This is a fantastic usability feature. You don’t have to awkwardly screw the bottle into place. A simple push and a quarter-turn locks it in securely and creates a perfect seal every time.
* ✅ Eco-Friendly Build: The machine is made from sustainable aluminium, and the company focuses on eco-friendly practices, which is a great bonus for environmentally conscious buyers.
* ✅ Stable and Secure: The weighty aluminium body and well-designed base make the unit feel incredibly stable on the counter. There’s no wobbling or shaking during carbonation.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Designed for Water Only: Unlike the Drinkmate models, the Mysoda Ruby 2 is explicitly designed and marketed for carbonating plain water. Attempting to carbonate other liquids could cause damage and would void the warranty.
* ❌ CO2 Cylinder Not Included: You must purchase a standard 60L CO2 cylinder separately. This adds to the initial setup cost compared to bundles that include one.
* ❌ Premium Price Point: You are paying a premium for the superior design, build materials, and quiet operation. It’s one of the more expensive water-only carbonators on the market.

Expert’s Experience

Award-Winning Design & Build Quality: The first thing you notice about the Mysoda Ruby 2 is its heft and quality. Taking it out of the box, the cool, solid feel of the aluminium body is a world away from the all-plastic construction of most competitors. It feels less like an appliance and more like a piece of high-end kitchen decor. The scratch-proof coating also did a great job of keeping it looking pristine during my testing.

Carbonation Performance & Noise Level: The quietness is genuinely impressive. If you have an open-concept living space or are sensitive to noise, this is the machine for you. The fizz it produces is noticeably different—finer and more effervescent. While some might prefer the aggressive, large bubbles of other models, I found Mysoda’s carbonation to be more refined and pleasant for drinking straight.

Ease of Use & Bottle System: The quick-lock mechanism is a small detail that makes a big difference in daily use. It’s much faster and more satisfying than tediously screwing a bottle in and out. The entire manual process is smooth, intuitive, and requires very little force on the carbonation button. It’s a beautifully engineered user experience from start to finish.

Best for Versatility on a Budget: DrinkMate Soda Maker Review

The standard DrinkMate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker is the model that started the “carbonate anything” revolution, and it remains the best entry point for beverage creativity. It offers the exact same core technology as my top overall pick but in a more affordable starter kit. It’s the perfect, budget-friendly carbonator for anyone curious about making their own sparkling juices, teas, and cocktails without a large upfront investment.

Specifications:
* Carbonation Type: Patented Fizz Infuser for any liquid
* CO2 Source: Standard 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders
* Power Source: Manual (no electricity or batteries)
* Bundle Includes: 1 machine, 1x 60L CO2 Cylinder, 1L bottle
* Bottle Material: BPA-Free Plastic

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Unmatched Carbonation Versatility: It features the same fantastic patented Fizz Infuser as the pricier OmniFizz. This gives you the complete freedom to carbonate any cold beverage you can think of, from morning juice to evening cocktails.
* ✅ Excellent Value & Lower Entry Cost: This kit is the most affordable way to get into the Drinkmate ecosystem. It provides the signature “carbonate anything” feature at a much more accessible price point than the Ultimate Bundle.
* ✅ Includes Everything to Start: The kit comes with the machine, a 1L BPA-free bottle, the Fizz Infuser, and one 60L CO2 cylinder. You have everything you need to start experimenting the moment you unbox it.
* ✅ Compact and Lightweight Design: This home soda maker has a very small footprint and is lightweight, making it perfect for smaller kitchens, dorm rooms, or even taking in an RV.
* ✅ Simple Push-Button Operation: Like its sibling, it’s a completely manual machine that requires no electricity. Operation is intuitive and gives you direct control over the carbonation level.
* ✅ Proven, Reliable Technology: This model has been on the market for years and has a proven track record of reliability and performance. It’s a true workhorse.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Feels Less Premium: The build is primarily plastic. While perfectly durable for its purpose, it lacks the high-end feel of the aluminium Mysoda or even the sturdier base of the OmniFizz model.
* ❌ Slower Manual Pressure Release: The manual pressure release process, especially for very foamy drinks, requires a bit of patience. You have to press the silver button in short bursts to prevent overflow. Workaround: I learned to place the bottle in the sink for the first few times I carbonated a new liquid, just in case I released the pressure too quickly.
* ❌ Only One Bottle Included: This starter kit comes with just one 1L bottle. If you plan on making both sparkling water and other fizzy drinks regularly, you’ll likely want to purchase an extra bottle.

Expert’s Experience

Core “Carbonate Anything” Feature: During my tests, this standard DrinkMate performed its core function flawlessly. It delivered on the promise of carbonating any drink. I made a sparkling iced tea that was incredibly refreshing and re-carbonated a flat ginger ale, saving it from being poured down the drain. This versatility is the single biggest reason to choose a Drinkmate over most other brands on the market.

Value Proposition: The value here is crystal clear. For a mid-range price, you are getting a capability that most premium-priced competitors from brands like SodaStream and Aarke simply do not offer. For anyone whose primary goal is beverage experimentation, this starter kit offers the best functional value, hands down.

Day-to-Day Use: As a daily driver for making sparkling water and the occasional fizzy juice, this machine is fantastic. It’s dependable, straightforward, and doesn’t take up much precious counter space. The manual operation is a plus for me, as there are no electronics to fail, and I can place it anywhere in my kitchen. It’s a reliable and fun appliance that encourages you to get creative.

Best for Kitchen Style: Drinkmate OmniFizz Bundle (Royal Red) Review

This model offers the exact same best-in-class performance, versatility, and outstanding value as my top overall pick, but in a vibrant Royal Red finish. The Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle in Royal Red is for the user who wants the absolute best functionality and also wants their appliance to be a statement piece. It’s perfect for adding a fun pop of color to your kitchen without compromising on performance.

Specifications:
* Carbonation Type: Patented Fizz Infuser for any liquid
* CO2 Source: Standard 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders
* Power Source: Manual (no electricity or batteries)
* Bundle Includes: 1 machine, 3x 60L CO2 Cylinders, 1L bottle, 0.5L bottle
* Color: Royal Red

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ All the “Best Overall” Features: You get the same incredible versatility to carbonate any beverage, the same intuitive ease of use, and the same fantastic bundle value with three 60L CO2 cylinders.
* ✅ Bold, Eye-Catching Finish: The Royal Red color is a true showstopper. It’s a deep, rich red with a glossy finish that can complement a variety of kitchen designs, from retro-inspired to ultra-modern.
* ✅ Perfect for Creative Cocktails: The ability to carbonate cocktails is a huge plus for home entertainers. I made a sparkling sangria that looked and tasted amazing, and this stylish drink carbonator was a great conversation starter.
* ✅ Complete, Long-Lasting Kit: Just like the black version, this ultimate bundle includes everything you need for months of carbonation. The three included CO2 cylinders mean you’re set for a very long time before needing to find a refill location.
* ✅ Safe for All Drinks: The patented Fizz Infuser ensures you can safely carbonate anything from juice to wine, making it a fun and functional centerpiece for parties.
* ✅ Great Gift Idea: The combination of top-tier performance and a stylish color makes this an excellent gift for weddings, housewarmings, or for the home mixologist in your life.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Glossy Finish Shows Fingerprints: Unlike the matte black version, the glossy red finish is more prone to showing fingerprints and smudges. It requires a quick wipe with a soft cloth to keep it looking its best.
* ❌ Hand-Wash Only: As with all Drinkmate models, all the components, including the bottles and Fizz Infuser, must be washed by hand. This is a consistent trait across their product line.
* ❌ Slightly Higher Price for Color: Sometimes, special colorways can come at a slight price premium compared to the standard black or white models, though this can vary.

Expert’s Experience

Aesthetic Impact: The main story here is the color. The Royal Red is not a muted tone; it’s a vibrant, cheerful red that genuinely brightens up a countertop. During my testing period, it drew more comments from guests than any other appliance in my kitchen. For those tired of the endless sea of black, silver, and white appliances, this is a fantastic option that doesn’t force you to compromise on quality.

Identical Top-Tier Performance: I can confirm that this model functions exactly like my “Best Overall” pick. I put it through the same tests, carbonating water for consistent fizz and apple juice to check the pressure release. The performance of the Drinkmate OmniFizz is predictable, reliable, and best-in-class, regardless of the color you choose.

The Host’s Best Friend: This is the ultimate machine for someone who loves to host gatherings. The vibrant color makes it a natural centerpiece for a home bar or drink station. The ability to create unique, custom sparkling drinks for guests on the fly—like a fizzy margarita or a sparkling iced tea—is a huge plus that makes any event more fun and memorable.

Carbonated Drink Maker Comparison Chart

To help you visualize the key differences, here is a side-by-side comparison of the top models I tested. This soda maker comparison focuses on the most important factors that will influence your decision.

Feature	Drinkmate OmniFizz	Spärkel System	Mysoda Ruby 2	DrinkMate (Standard)	Drinkmate OmniFizz (Red)
Category	Best Overall	Best CO2-Free	Most Stylish	Versatility on a Budget	Best for Style
Carbonates	Anything	Anything	Water Only	Anything	Anything
CO2 Source	60L Cylinder	Sachets	60L Cylinder	60L Cylinder	60L Cylinder
Power Source	Manual	Electric	Manual	Manual	Manual
Build Material	Plastic	Plastic	Aluminium	Plastic	Plastic
Best For	Power users, entertainers	Those avoiding CO2 tanks	Design-focused users	Budget-conscious experimenters	Style-conscious power users
My Rating	4.9/5 ⭐	4.5/5 ⭐	4.6/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.9/5 ⭐

As you can see, the biggest decision point is versatility. If you want to carbonate more than water, the Drinkmate models are the clear winners. If you prioritize convenience and hate CO2 tanks, the Spärkel is your best bet. And if style and quiet operation are paramount, the Mysoda Ruby 2 is in a class of its own.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Carbonated Drink Maker

Choosing the right home carbonation system comes down to your personal habits and what you plan to drink. This soda maker guide will walk you through the key factors I recommend considering to find your perfect match from this list.

• Versatility: Water-Only vs. Any-Drink: This is the most critical decision. If you are 100% certain you only want to make sparkling water, a simple and elegant water-only machine like the Mysoda Ruby 2 is a fantastic choice. However, if you have even the slightest curiosity about making sparkling juice, tea, wine, or cocktails, you absolutely need a machine with a specialized pressure-release system like the Drinkmate‘s patented Fizz Infuser.
• CO2 Source: Cylinders vs. Sachets: Standard 60L CO2 cylinders are the industry norm, widely available for exchange at retailers like Target and Walmart. They can be a bit cumbersome to store and exchange. The Spärkel Beverage System‘s sachet system is incredibly convenient for storage and ordering online, but it locks you into their proprietary system. Consider which is a better fit for your lifestyle and access to local stores.
• Power Source: Manual vs. Electric: Manual machines like the Drinkmate and Mysoda models offer ultimate placement flexibility—put them anywhere on your counter, no outlet needed. They also work during power outages. Electric machines like the Spärkel offer perfect one-touch consistency and pre-set carbonation levels but must be plugged in.
• Carbonation Control & Quality: Do you like a light, gentle sparkle or an aggressive, tooth-tingling fizz? Manual machines offer more tactile, hands-on control—you simply press the button more times for more fizz. Electric models with pre-set levels offer perfect repeatability. The nozzle design also matters; the Mysoda Ruby 2, for example, is specifically designed for finer, smoother bubbles.
• Build Material and Design: A soda maker is a permanent resident on your kitchen counter, so looks are important. Budget-friendly plastic models are lightweight and functional. Premium models made of robust aluminium or stainless steel, like the Mysoda, offer superior durability and a high-end aesthetic, but at a higher price.
• Bottle Type and Size: Most models on this list use BPA-free plastic bottles, which are lightweight and shatterproof but typically need to be hand-washed. The bottle capacity (usually between 0.5L to 1L) is also important. A 1L bottle is great for making water for the dinner table, while a smaller 0.5L bottle is perfect for individual drinks or experiments.
• Initial Cost vs. Long-Term Cost: Don’t just look at the sticker price. A model with a higher upfront cost like the Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle might save you significant money long-term because it includes three CO2 cylinders. When making your choice, factor in the ongoing cost of CO2 refills or proprietary sachets.

FAQs About Carbonated Drink Makers

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions I get about using a home carbonation system.

Is it cheaper to make your own sparkling water?

Yes, in the long run, it is significantly cheaper to make your own sparkling water. After the initial investment in the fizzy drink machine, the cost per liter of homemade sparkling water is just a fraction of the price of store-bought brands like LaCroix or Perrier. If you drink sparkling water regularly, a soda maker will pay for itself relatively quickly and save you a lot of money over time.

Which is better: SodaStream or Drinkmate?

It depends entirely on what you want to carbonate. If you only plan on making sparkling water, SodaStream is a well-known and reliable option. However, if you want the versatility and fun of carbonating any beverage—like juice, wine, iced tea, or cocktails—then Drinkmate is the clear winner due to its patented Fizz Infuser technology, which is specifically designed to handle those liquids safely.

Can you carbonate juice with a regular soda maker?

No, you should not carbonate juice or any other sugary liquid with a standard soda maker (this includes most SodaStream models and the Mysoda). These machines are designed for water only. Attempting to carbonate sugary or thick liquids can cause excessive foaming, create a huge sticky mess, overflow into the machine’s mechanisms, and void your warranty. Only use a machine specifically designed for it, like a Drinkmate.

How do carbonated drink makers work?

Most models work by injecting pressurized carbon dioxide (CO2) from a cylinder directly into cold liquid held in a sealed bottle. The high pressure forces the CO2 gas to dissolve into the liquid, creating carbonic acid. This process is what gives the drink its signature fizz and tangy taste. The Spärkel system is an exception, creating CO2 through a chemical reaction instead of from a tank.

What kind of CO2 does a soda maker use?

Most home soda makers, including Drinkmate and Mysoda, use food-grade CO2 stored in standard 60L cylinders with a screw-in top. These cylinders are widely available, and many brands (like SodaStream and Drinkmate) use compatible cylinders that can often be used interchangeably. You can typically exchange empty cylinders for full ones at a reduced price at major retailers.

How long does homemade sparkling water last?

Homemade sparkling water is best enjoyed fresh, but it will stay fizzy for 1-2 days if stored in the sealed, original carbonating bottle in the refrigerator. The carbonation will slowly dissipate each time you open the bottle, just like a store-bought bottle of seltzer. Keeping it cold helps it retain its fizz longer.

Which soda maker has the best fizz?

The “best” fizz is subjective and depends on your preference. For an aggressive, powerful fizz with large bubbles, I found the manual push-button models like Drinkmate provide excellent results. For a smoother, more delicate fizz with fine bubbles, the Mysoda Ruby 2‘s anti-freeze nozzle performs exceptionally well. For the most consistent and repeatable fizz, the electric Spärkel is the top performer.

Can I use tap water in my soda maker?

Yes, you can absolutely use tap water. For the best-tasting and fizziest results, I highly recommend using cold, filtered tap water. The cold temperature is key, as colder water absorbs CO2 more effectively, resulting in a bubblier drink. Using filtered water removes any chlorine or mineral tastes that might be present in your tap water.

Are soda makers worth it?

If you are a regular consumer of sparkling water, seltzer, or soda, a soda maker is definitely worth the investment. It saves you a significant amount of money in the long term, dramatically reduces your household’s plastic bottle waste, and gives you complete control over the flavor, sweetness, and carbonation level of your drinks.

How do you clean a carbonated drink maker?

The machine itself can simply be wiped down with a damp cloth. The bottles for all the brands on this list are hand-wash only. You should use lukewarm water, a drop of dish soap, and a bottle brush to clean them. Never use a dishwasher or very hot water, as the high heat can damage, deform, or weaken the plastic bottles, making them unsafe to use under pressure.

My Final Verdict on the Best Carbonated Drink Maker

After weeks of testing, carbonating everything from plain water to pineapple juice, my final verdict is clear. The goal of this expert-tested review was to find the best home carbonation system that delivers on fizz, features, and overall value.

For the vast majority of people, the Best Overall choice is, without a doubt, the Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle. Its unique ability to carbonate any drink you can think of is a revolutionary feature that opens up a world of beverage creativity. This isn’t just a seltzer maker; it’s a complete beverage enhancement tool. When you combine that unmatched versatility with the incredible long-term value of the 3-cylinder bundle, it becomes an investment that pays off in both versatility and fun from day one.

The Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle is perfect for you if…
* You want the freedom to carbonate juice, tea, wine, or cocktails.
* You love to entertain and create custom drinks for guests.
* You want the best possible value and don’t want to worry about CO2 refills for a long time.
* You want a simple, reliable, manual machine that doesn’t require electricity.

It might not be ideal for…
* Users who will only ever carbonate plain water.
* Those who strongly prefer a machine made of metal instead of plastic.
* Anyone who wants a completely hands-off, “push one button and walk away” experience.

If you hate the idea of dealing with CO2 tanks but still want versatility, my top alternative recommendation is the innovative Spärkel Beverage System.

Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with any machine on this list, as each one is a leader in its category. Choosing the right one comes down to prioritizing what matters most to you. But if you want the best all-around performer that offers the most fun and functionality for your money, I’m confident my top pick, the Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle, will elevate your home beverage game.

Last update on 2026-01-20 at 11:09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API