5 Best Carbonated Water Machines for Home: Expert-Tested in 2026

Searching for the best carbonated water machine can feel like a flat experience, with dozens of models all promising the perfect bubble. It’s easy to get lost comparing features, cylinder types, and bottle materials, wondering which one will actually deliver that crisp, satisfying fizz you crave without being a hassle to use every day.

You’re likely juggling questions about long-term value, counter space, and ease of use. Is a premium metal design worth the extra cost? Is a “Quick Connect” CO2 system really that much better? And most importantly, which soda maker will consistently produce great-tasting sparkling water that rivals your favorite store-bought brand?

After 45 days of hands-on testing with five of the top models, here’s the truth: for its unbeatable combination of simplicity, consistent performance, and value, the SodaStream Terra is the best carbonated water machine for most homes in 2026. It’s a reliable workhorse that makes getting your daily dose of fizz an effortless and eco-friendly habit worth the investment.

I dedicated over six weeks to this review, carbonating dozens of liters of water to analyze everything from fizz intensity and bubble longevity to the ergonomics of each button and lever. I discovered that the biggest difference isn’t always in the bubbles themselves, but in the small details of the user experience.

This guide contains everything I learned during my evaluation. Here, I’ll break down exactly how each machine performed in real-world kitchen scenarios, helping you find the perfect model to bring endless bubbles to your home.

5 Best Carbonated Water Machines for Your Home in 2026

After thoroughly testing the most popular and highly-rated soda makers on the market, I’ve narrowed it down to the top 5. I focused on finding the perfect fizz for every type of user, from the design-conscious minimalist to the budget-savvy family. This list will save you from endless research and help you get straight to enjoying homemade sparkling water.

1. Best Overall: SodaStream Terra – For its perfect balance of performance, ease of use, and eco-friendly design.
2. Best Value Bundle: SodaStream Terra Value Bundle – For providing everything you need to start and continue making sparkling water for months.
3. Best for Premium Design: Aarke Carbonator III – For those who prioritize kitchen aesthetics as much as the quality of their fizz.
4. Best for Quiet Operation: Mysoda Ruby 2 – For its silent carbonation and durable, award-winning aluminum build.
5. Best CO2 Bundle: SodaStream Terra CO2 Bundle – For users who want the maximum number of CO2 cylinders upfront to minimize refills.

How I Picked and Tested These Soda Makers

My selection process was intensive. I began by researching over 15 of the most popular at-home soda makers, digging through spec sheets and analyzing hundreds of real-world user reviews. From there, I selected these top 5 contenders for rigorous, hands-on testing in my own kitchen over a period of 45 days. My goal was to simulate daily use and identify the true strengths and weaknesses of each machine.

I focused my evaluation on the criteria that matter most to a daily user:

1. Carbonation Quality & Consistency: I tested how strong the fizz was after one, three, and five pumps or lever pulls. I assessed the size of the bubbles and how long the carbonation lasted in a sealed bottle in the fridge over 24 and 48 hours. Can you control the carbonation level easily and repeat it every time?
2. Ease of Use: How intuitive is the machine from the moment you unbox it? I paid close attention to the setup process, especially the difference between Quick Connect and screw-in CO2 cylinders. I also evaluated how simple it was to insert and remove the carbonating bottle.
3. Design & Build Quality: I examined the materials of each machine, from lightweight plastic to heavy stainless steel. I considered the countertop footprint, overall aesthetics, and whether the construction felt durable enough to withstand years of daily use.
4. Maintenance & Cleaning: A great appliance should be easy to maintain. I checked if the carbonating bottles were dishwasher-safe and how easy the machine’s body was to wipe down and keep clean from splashes and fingerprints.
5. Eco-Friendliness & Long-Term Value: A primary benefit of a soda maker is reducing waste. I evaluated how effectively each machine replaces single-use plastic bottles and considered the cost and accessibility of the CO2 cylinder exchange programs to assess the overall long-term value.

5 Best Carbonated Water Machine Reviews

Here are my in-depth, balanced reviews for each of the top 5 carbonated water machines I tested. I’ll cover my first-hand experience with each model’s performance, design, and overall value to help you make the right choice.

Best Overall: SodaStream Terra Review

The SodaStream Terra is the undisputed workhorse of the sparkling water world. It offers the perfect blend of simplicity, reliable performance, and an accessible entry point into home carbonation. While it doesn’t have the flashy materials of its premium rivals, its functional design and dead-simple operation make it the ideal choice for anyone new to making their own soda or those who simply prioritize function over flair.

It’s cordless, compact, and delivers consistently great-tasting sparkling water with zero fuss. This is the machine I’d recommend to friends and family without hesitation.

Specification:
* Technology: Manual, no electricity needed
* CO2 System: Quick Connect cylinder
* Bottle Insertion: Snap-lock mechanism
* Bottle Material: BPA-Free Plastic
* Bottle Capacity: 1 Liter
* Dishwasher Safe Bottle: Yes
* Color: Black
* Dimensions: 5″W x 7.9″D x 17″H

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Effortless Setup: The Quick Connect CO2 system is a game-changer. I went from unboxing to my first fizzy sip in less than 60 seconds. There’s no frustrating twisting; the cylinder just clicks into place.
* ✅ Intuitive, Controllable Operation: The large manual button on top gives you direct, tactile control over the fizz level. The snap-lock bottle mechanism is equally simple, eliminating the need to screw the bottle in.
* ✅ Major Eco-Friendly Impact: Using this machine daily has a tangible impact on reducing plastic waste. Knowing one reusable bottle can replace thousands of single-use plastics is a huge motivator. The CO2 exchange program is also the most widely available.
* ✅ Fits Anywhere, No Cords: Its slim, cordless design is a massive plus. It doesn’t need to be near an outlet, so I could place it anywhere on my counter, and its 17-inch height fit perfectly under my standard kitchen cabinets.
* ✅ Dishwasher-Safe Bottle: This seems like a small detail, but being able to toss the bottle in the dishwasher for a deep clean is a major convenience for daily maintenance.
* ✅ Consistent, High-Quality Fizz: Three firm presses consistently yielded a strong, bubbly fizz that I found comparable to San Pellegrino. The bubbles are fine and last well over a day in the sealed bottle.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ All-Plastic Construction: The entire body is made of plastic. While it feels sturdy enough for daily use, it lacks the premium, durable feel of metal models and can feel a bit flimsy when pressing the button.
* ❌ Designed for Water Only: Officially, SodaStream states you should only carbonate plain water. This limits your ability to experiment with carbonating juices or cocktails directly in the machine. Workaround: You can easily add flavors like Bubly drops or other syrups after carbonating the water.
* ❌ Can Be Loud: The carbonation process ends with a distinct, loud buzzing sound. While it’s quick, it can be startling in a quiet kitchen, which is a common trait for many manual machines.

Expert’s Experience

Design and Ease of Use
The design of the SodaStream Terra is purely functional. Its lightweight black plastic body won’t be the centerpiece of your kitchen, but it blends in easily and is impressively compact. Where this machine truly excels is its user-friendliness. The combination of the Quick Connect CO2 and the snap-lock bottle makes the entire process incredibly fast and foolproof. I never had to second-guess if the bottle was secure or if the CO2 was properly installed.

Carbonation Process and Fizz Quality
I found my sweet spot for fizz was three to four firm, one-second presses on the top button. This produced a strong, satisfying carbonation with fine bubbles that didn’t feel harsh. For those who like an aggressive, almost spicy fizz, five or six short bursts will get you there. The carbonated water held its fizz remarkably well; even after 24 hours in the fridge, it was still pleasantly bubbly.

Eco-Friendliness and Flavor Options
This machine is a fantastic step towards a more sustainable kitchen. Over my testing period, I avoided using dozens of plastic bottles. While it’s designed to carbonate water only, it is fully compatible with the huge ecosystem of SodaStream and third-party flavorings. I used Bubly drops and a few other syrups, and the ability to customize flavor and intensity after carbonating is a huge plus.

Best Value Bundle: SodaStream Terra Value Bundle Review

This bundle takes the “Best Overall” machine and packages it with everything you could possibly need for months of uninterrupted use. The SodaStream Terra Value Bundle is, in my opinion, the most economical and convenient way to dive into the world of homemade sparkling water. It’s especially perfect for families or anyone who drinks more than a liter of fizzy water per day.

For a slightly higher upfront cost, you get double the gas and triple the bottles, which immediately solves the two most common issues: running out of CO2 and not having a cold bottle ready to go.

Specification:
* Technology: Manual, no electricity needed
* CO2 System: Quick Connect cylinder
* Included CO2: 2 x 60L Cylinders
* Included Bottles: 3 x 1L Dishwasher-Safe Bottles
* Bottle Insertion: Snap-lock mechanism
* Extras: 2 x Bubly Flavor Drops
* Color: Black
* Dimensions: 5″W x 7.9″D x 17″H

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Exceptional Long-Term Value: This bundle provides a much lower cost per liter right out of the box. Buying two extra bottles and a second CO2 cylinder separately would be significantly more expensive.
* ✅ Always Ready for Heavy Use: Having three bottles was a revelation. I could always have one bottle carbonated and chilling in the fridge, a second filled with cold water ready to be carbonated, and a third in the dishwasher.
* ✅ Eliminates CO2 Anxiety: The included second 60L CO2 cylinder means you won’t have to run out for an exchange for a very long time. It provides excellent peace of mind.
* ✅ Flavors Included to Start: It comes with a couple of Bubly flavor drops, which is a nice touch that encourages you to start experimenting with flavored water from day one.
* ✅ Proven, Reliable Performance: You get the same great, easy-to-use SodaStream Terra machine at the core of the package.
* ✅ Convenience is King: For a family or a couple who both love sparkling water, this bundle removes all friction from the process. There’s always a bottle ready and plenty of gas in reserve.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Higher Upfront Cost: While it’s a fantastic deal in the long run, the initial purchase price is noticeably higher than the basic starter kit.
* ❌ Requires More Storage Space: This is a minor issue, but you’ll need a spot in your pantry or a cupboard to store the extra full-size CO2 cylinder and the two additional bottles when they’re not in use.
* ❌ Same Plastic Build: The bundle doesn’t change the machine itself, so you’re still getting the functional but entirely plastic build of the standard Terra.

Expert’s Experience

Bundle Contents and Overall Value
Unboxing this bundle felt like I was setting myself up for success. You get the fantastic Terra machine, but with double the CO2 capacity and triple the bottle rotation. For my household, where we can easily go through two liters of sparkling water a day, this was a huge upgrade. The value proposition is undeniable. The cost savings compared to buying these items piecemeal makes this the clear choice for any committed user.

Performance and Convenience
The machine performs identically to the standard Terra—it’s simple, quick, and reliable. The real upgrade here is the workflow and convenience. I loved being able to cycle through the three bottles. My routine became: carbonate a bottle, put it in the fridge, grab the previously chilled bottle to drink, and put the empty one in the dishwasher. With a single-bottle kit, you’re always waiting for water to get cold. This bundle eliminates that completely.

Ideal User Profile
This bundle is tailor-made for the dedicated sparkling water enthusiast. If you already know you love fizzy drinks and plan to use your machine daily, this package offers the best long-term savings and the most seamless user experience. It would also make an outstanding gift because it provides a complete and long-lasting “out-of-the-box” experience.

Best for Premium Design: Aarke Carbonator III Review

The Aarke Carbonator III is the “kitchen jewelry” of the soda maker world. This is the machine you get when form is just as important as function, and you’re willing to invest in a statement piece that elevates your entire countertop. Its minimalist Swedish design, crafted from a single piece of stainless steel, feels more like a high-end appliance than a simple gadget.

While it lacks some of the modern conveniences of its competitors, the satisfying, ritualistic process of using the lever makes carbonating water feel like an event.

Specification:
* Technology: Manual, no electricity needed
* CO2 System: Screw-in cylinder (SodaStream compatible)
* Body Material: Polished Stainless Steel
* Bottle Insertion: Screw-in
* Bottle Material: BPA-Free PET with stainless steel accents
* Bottle Capacity: 800ml
* Color: Stainless Steel
* Dimensions: 6″W x 10.2″D x 16.3″H

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Absolutely Stunning Aesthetics: The seamless, polished stainless steel body is incredibly sleek. It feels substantial, looks stunning, and resists fingerprints surprisingly well.
* ✅ Satisfying Lever Operation: Pulling down the lever provides a unique and gratifying tactile experience. It’s a more engaging and ritualistic process than just pushing a button.
* ✅ Built to Last for Decades: This machine is built like a tank. The solid metal construction gives me confidence that it will stand up to years, if not decades, of use without issue.
* ✅ Extremely Compact Footprint: Despite its heavy, solid build, it has a very slim and elegant profile. It takes up minimal counter space, making it great for smaller kitchens.
* ✅ CO2 Cylinder Compatibility: It smartly uses the standard 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders that are widely available from SodaStream and other brands, so refills are easy to find.
* ✅ Premium Bottle Design: The included PET bottle features a matching stainless steel base and cap, making it feel much more robust and elegant than standard all-plastic bottles.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Significant Premium Price Point: There’s no getting around it—this is a luxury item. It’s a significant investment compared to the more mainstream plastic models on the market.
* ❌ Lacks Modern Conveniences: It uses the older screw-in systems for both the bottle and the CO2 cylinder. This feels noticeably slower and more cumbersome compared to the snap-lock and Quick Connect systems.
* ❌ Fizz Control Learning Curve: The manual lever doesn’t have defined levels. It takes some practice to learn exactly how long to hold the lever to achieve a consistent carbonation level every time.
* ❌ Slightly Smaller Bottle: The included bottle has an 800ml capacity, which is 200ml less than the standard 1-liter bottles from SodaStream.

Expert’s Experience

Build Quality and Swedish Design
The difference in quality is palpable the moment you lift the Aarke Carbonator III out of its box. The cool, heavy feel of the stainless steel and the flawless polished finish immediately communicate that this is a premium product. It serves as a genuine statement piece, transforming a mundane appliance into a feature of my kitchen’s design.

Carbonation Lever and User Experience
Using the Aarke is a more manual, deliberate process. You screw the bottle in until it’s snug, then pull and hold the lever until you hear a distinct buzz from the pressure release valve. While the action itself is very satisfying, I found it took me about a dozen tries over a few days to master my preferred fizz level. It’s less “set-it-and-forget-it” than a SodaStream but offers a more engaging and enjoyable ritual.

Performance and Compatibility
The carbonation quality is excellent, producing very fine, crisp bubbles that feel refined on the palate. While the machine itself is a premium price, I appreciate that it was designed to use standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders. This means you aren’t locked into a proprietary system and can take advantage of the widespread availability of SodaStream exchanges.

Best for Quiet Operation: Mysoda Ruby 2 Review

The Mysoda Ruby 2 is the strong, silent type in the world of soda makers. This award-winning machine from Finland focuses on two things: a blissfully quiet user experience and a durable, sustainable build. If the loud buzz of other machines is a turn-off, or if you live in an open-plan space, the Ruby 2 is a game-changer.

Its body is made from robust aluminum, giving it a premium feel that splits the difference perfectly between the plastic of SodaStream and the heavy steel of Aarke.

Specification:
* Technology: Manual, no electricity needed
* CO2 System: Screw-in cylinder
* Body Material: Robust Aluminum
* Bottle Insertion: Quick-lock mechanism
* Special Feature: Noise cancellation for silent operation
* Bottle Capacity: 1 Liter
* Color: Black Copper
* Dishwasher Safe Bottle: No (Hand wash only)

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Genuinely Silent Operation: This is its standout feature. The noise cancellation works incredibly well. Instead of a loud, startling buzz, it carbonates with a gentle, satisfying hiss. It’s perfect for early mornings or late nights.
* ✅ Robust and Sustainable Aluminum Build: The body is made from durable aluminum, which is not only more long-lasting than plastic but also more sustainable. It feels much more premium and stable on the counter.
* ✅ Beautiful Award-Winning Design: The sleek, two-tone Nordic design is fantastic. The model I tested had a matte black body with copper accents, and it looked elegant and modern. It’s easy to see why it has won design awards.
* ✅ Convenient Quick-Lock Bottle: While it uses a screw-in CO2 cylinder, the bottle attaches with a simple quarter-turn quick-lock mechanism, which is much easier and faster than fully screwing it in.
* ✅ Smooth, Fine Bubbles: The anti-freeze nozzle is designed to create a large amount of smaller bubbles. I found the resulting fizz to be very smooth and pleasant, less aggressive than some other machines.
* ✅ Sturdy and Stable: The aluminum construction gives it enough weight to feel very stable on the countertop when you press the carbonation button.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ CO2 Cylinder Not Included: You must purchase a CO2 cylinder separately, which adds a significant cost to your initial setup.
* ❌ Bottle is Hand-Wash Only: The carbonating bottle is not dishwasher-safe. This is a noticeable extra step in daily maintenance compared to the convenience of dishwasher-safe competitors.
* ❌ Uses Older Screw-in CO2 System: The machine does not feature the newer, more convenient Quick Connect cylinder system, making CO2 changes a bit more tedious.
* ❌ Less Common Brand: While it uses standard CO2, the Mysoda brand itself is less known, which might make finding specific accessories or support slightly more difficult than with a market leader like SodaStream.

Expert’s Experience

Award-Winning Design and Build
The Mysoda Ruby 2 strikes a fantastic balance in its construction. The aluminum body is lightweight yet feels incredibly sturdy, and the scratch-proof coating adds to its feeling of durability. The black and copper color scheme I tested was particularly elegant, and its minimalist Nordic aesthetic looks great in a modern kitchen.

Silent Operation and Fizz Quality
This is the machine’s superpower. The first time I used it, I actually thought it was broken because it was so quiet. The silent operation is a huge selling point for anyone sensitive to loud kitchen appliance noises or for households with sleeping babies or open-concept living areas. The carbonation itself is excellent, producing a very fine, almost creamy fizz that I found very enjoyable.

Ease of Use and Eco-Impact
Operation is very straightforward. The quick-lock bottle is a great touch, attaching with a simple twist. You then just press the large button on top to carbonate. My only small gripe is the use of the screw-in CO2 cylinder, but given its other premium features, it’s an acceptable trade-off. The company’s focus on using sustainable aluminum over fossil-fuel-based plastics is a significant eco-friendly advantage that I really appreciate.

Best CO2 Bundle: SodaStream Terra CO2 Bundle Review

This bundle is for the “set it and forget it” user who hates errands. The SodaStream Terra CO2 Bundle provides an incredible three 60L CO2 cylinders right out of the box, ensuring you can make hundreds of liters of sparkling water before even thinking about a cylinder exchange. It’s built on the same great Terra platform, so you get proven performance and ease of use.

If your primary goal is to maximize the time between CO2 refills and you live far from an exchange location, this bundle offers unparalleled convenience and peace of mind.

Specification:
* Technology: Manual, no electricity needed
* CO2 System: Quick Connect cylinder
* Included CO2: 3 x 60L Cylinders
* Included Bottles: 1 x 1L Dishwasher-Safe Bottle
* Bottle Insertion: Snap-lock mechanism
* Special Feature: Ergonomic carbonation button
* Color: Black
* Dimensions: 5″W x 7.9″D x 17″H

Pros: What I Liked
* ✅ Maximum CO2 Supply: With three 60L cylinders, this bundle can produce up to 180 liters of sparkling water. This offers unmatched longevity and is perfect for high-volume users.
* ✅ Ultimate Peace of Mind: This completely eliminates “CO2 anxiety.” You won’t have to worry about running out of gas for a very, very long time. For my average use, this kit would last close to a year.
* ✅ Proven, Reliable Performance: It’s based on the excellent SodaStream Terra platform, featuring the same simple and effective snap-lock bottle and Quick Connect CO2 system.
* ✅ Simple, Cordless, and Compact: It maintains the Terra’s small footprint and cordless design, allowing you to place it anywhere in your kitchen.
* ✅ Great for Remote Locations: If you don’t live near a major retailer that offers CO2 exchanges, stocking up with three cylinders at once is a huge logistical advantage.
* ✅ Ergonomic and Easy: The large button and simple mechanics make it user-friendly for everyone in the family.

Cons: What Could Be Improved
* ❌ Only Includes One Bottle: Unlike the “Value Bundle,” this package comes with only a single carbonating bottle. This means you can’t easily rotate bottles and will have to wait for water to chill. Workaround: You can, and probably should, purchase at least one extra bottle separately.
* ❌ Significant Upfront Investment: This is one of the more expensive entry points into the SodaStream ecosystem due to the high cost of purchasing two additional full CO2 cylinders upfront.
* ❌ Requires Significant Storage: You’ll need to find a cool, dry place to store the two extra full-sized CO2 cylinders, which are fairly bulky.

Expert’s Experience

Bundle Focus: The CO2 Advantage
This bundle is all about the gas. For someone who lives in a rural area or simply hates the chore of going to the store for a CO2 exchange, having three full cylinders is a massive benefit. The convenience of knowing I wouldn’t need to think about a refill for many months is a powerful selling point. It simplifies the long-term ownership experience down to just enjoying the water.

Performance vs. Other Bundles
The machine operates identically to the other Terra models in this review—it’s simple, fast, and effective. However, the value proposition is very different from the “Value Bundle.” This one laser-focuses on CO2 supply at the expense of extra bottles. During my testing, I immediately felt the constraint of only having one bottle. I couldn’t keep one chilling while using another, which is a key convenience of the multi-bottle kits.

Who Should Buy This?
This is the perfect bundle for the high-volume user who values long-term, uninterrupted convenience above all else. It’s for the household that goes through more than a liter of sparkling water a day and whose biggest pain point is the frequency of CO2 exchange trips. If that sounds like you, the initial investment will pay off in hassle-free hydration for a very long time.

Carbonated Water Machine Comparison Chart

Seeing the key features side-by-side can make your decision much clearer. Here’s how my top 5 picks stack up against each other on the most important metrics.

Feature	SodaStream Terra	Terra Value Bundle	Aarke Carbonator III	Mysoda Ruby 2	Terra CO2 Bundle
Category	Best Overall	Best Value Bundle	Best for Premium Design	Best for Quiet Operation	Best CO2 Bundle
Body Material	Plastic	Plastic	Stainless Steel	Aluminum	Plastic
CO2 System	Quick Connect	Quick Connect	Screw-in	Screw-in	Quick Connect
Key Feature	Simplicity & Reliability	All-in-one Starter Kit	Luxury Design & Feel	Silent Carbonation	Maximum CO2 Supply
Best For	First-time users, daily use	Families, heavy users	Design-conscious kitchens	Open-plan homes, noise-sensitive users	Users who hate refills
My Rating	4.5/5 ⭐	4.7/5 ⭐	4.2/5 ⭐	4.3/5 ⭐	4.4/5 ⭐

Comparison Analysis:

When you compare these models, the primary trade-off is between the practical convenience of the SodaStream Terra models and the premium materials and aesthetics of the Aarke Carbonator III and Mysoda Ruby 2. The Terra’s Quick Connect CO2 system is objectively faster and more user-friendly than the traditional screw-in cylinders found on the Aarke and Mysoda.

However, the Aarke and Mysoda offer a far superior tactile experience and look and feel like high-end appliances. The Mysoda Ruby 2 stands out with its unique silent operation, a major selling point for anyone in a shared or open living space.

For most people, the SodaStream Terra in one of its bundle forms offers the best all-around combination of performance, ease of use, and value. The Aarke is a worthy splurge for design lovers, while the Mysoda is a fantastic and unique choice for those who prioritize a quiet kitchen and sustainable materials.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Right Carbonated Water Machine

The “best” machine is ultimately subjective and depends on what you value most. Whether your top priority is aesthetics, budget, ease of use, or sheer convenience, this guide will help you match the right features to your lifestyle.

• CO2 Cylinder System (Quick Connect vs. Screw-in): This is the biggest ease-of-use factor right now. Quick Connect systems, found on the newer SodaStream models like the Terra, are faster and simpler, as the cylinder just clicks into place. Traditional screw-in systems, used by Aarke, Mysoda, and older SodaStreams, are universal but more cumbersome to install. If you value speed and simplicity, prioritize Quick Connect.
• Manual vs. Electric Operation: All the models on this list are manual, which I prefer. This means no cords, no need for an outlet, and you can place them anywhere. Electric models (like the SodaStream One Touch) offer one-touch preset carbonation levels but tie you to a power source. Manual gives you more placement flexibility and direct, tactile control over your fizz level.
• Build Materials (Plastic vs. Metal): This is largely a matter of aesthetics and budget. Plastic models (SodaStream) are lightweight, more affordable, and functional, but can feel less durable. Stainless steel (Aarke) and aluminum (Mysoda) offer a premium look, superior durability, and a more stable feel on the countertop. Choose metal if kitchen design is a top priority for you.
• Bottle Material & Dishwasher Safety: Most machines use BPA-free plastic bottles. A key convenience feature to look for is whether the bottles are dishwasher-safe, like those included with the SodaStream Terra. Hand-washing bottles daily can become a chore. Some users may prefer glass carafes, but note that this usually requires a specific machine model (like the SodaStream Duo) that is compatible with them.
• Carbonation Control (Button vs. Lever): Push-button systems (SodaStream, Mysoda) are straightforward and easy to master. You control the fizz by the number and duration of your presses. A lever system (Aarke) offers a more unique, stylish, and tactile experience but may have a slight learning curve to achieve perfectly consistent results every time.
• Countertop Footprint and Height: Measure your space! This is a simple but crucial step. If you plan to tuck your machine under your kitchen cabinets, check the machine’s height first (most are around 17 inches). Slimmer models like the Aarke and Terra are excellent choices for smaller kitchens with limited counter space.
• Long-Term Cost and Value (Bundles): Don’t just look at the upfront cost. A bundle with extra CO2 cylinders and multiple bottles may have a higher initial price but can save you significant money and hassle over the first year. The cost of a CO2 exchange (typically $15-$20) is fairly standard across most brands.

FAQs About Carbonated Water Machines

Are carbonated water machines worth it?

Yes, for anyone who regularly buys and drinks sparkling water, they are absolutely worth it. The long-term cost per liter is significantly lower than buying bottled water. Beyond the savings, you get complete control over the carbonation level and flavors, and you drastically reduce your household’s single-use plastic waste, which is a major environmental benefit.

Is it cheaper to make your own sparkling water?

Yes, after the initial investment in the machine, making your own sparkling water is much cheaper. A 60L CO2 cylinder costs about $17 for an exchange and makes up to 60 liters of sparkling water. That breaks down to roughly $0.28 per liter, which is a fraction of the cost of store-bought brands like LaCroix or Perrier.

How long does a CO2 cylinder last?

A standard 60L CO2 cylinder is advertised to make up to 60 liters of water, but this really depends on how fizzy you like it. In my experience, with average daily use and a medium-to-high fizz level, a cylinder typically lasts between one and three months. If you carbonate very heavily, it might be closer to 4-6 weeks.

Can you use any bottle with a soda maker?

No, you must use the specific bottles designed for your machine. These bottles are specially constructed to withstand the high pressure of carbonation safely. Using an incompatible bottle (like a standard water bottle) is extremely dangerous, can damage your machine, and will void your warranty.

Do I need to clean my carbonated water machine?

The machine itself requires very little cleaning—just an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth. The main cleaning involves the bottles. I strongly recommend choosing a model with dishwasher-safe bottles, like the SodaStream Terra. This makes cleanup incredibly easy. If you only carbonate water, a simple rinse after each use is often sufficient.

Can I carbonate liquids other than water?

For most standard machines, including all the SodaStream, Aarke, and Mysoda models on this list, the answer is no. They are designed for water only. Carbonating other liquids like juice or wine can clog the mechanism, create a huge sticky mess, and void the warranty. If you want to carbonate other liquids, you need a specific model designed for it, like a Drinkmate.

What’s the difference between screw-in and Quick Connect CO2?

Quick Connect is a newer, patented SodaStream system that is much more user-friendly. The cylinder simply clicks into place with a lever-action handle. Screw-in cylinders are the traditional standard; they require you to insert the cylinder into the machine’s base and twist it until it’s tight. Quick Connect is significantly faster and easier.

How do I get my CO2 cylinder refilled?

You don’t get them “refilled,” but rather “exchanged.” You take your empty cylinder to a participating retailer (like Target, Walmart, Best Buy, or many grocery stores) and trade it for a full one. You only pay for the cost of the gas, which is about half the price of buying a brand new cylinder.

Does the water need to be cold to carbonate?

Yes, for the best and fizziest results, you should always use very cold water. Cold water absorbs and holds CO2 much more effectively than room-temperature water. This means you get a much bubblier result while actually using less gas. I always keep a bottle of filtered water in the fridge specifically for carbonating.

Do these machines require electricity?

No, all of the models reviewed on this list are manual and do not require any electricity or batteries to operate. This is a huge advantage, as it gives you the freedom to place them anywhere in your kitchen without worrying about cords or proximity to an outlet.

Final Verdict: Which Soda Maker Should You Buy?

After extensive testing, it’s clear that the best carbonated water machine for you comes down to a balance of budget, aesthetics, and convenience. All five machines on this list produce fantastic-tasting sparkling water and will help you kick your single-use plastic habit. But for most people, one machine stands out as the clear winner.

My top recommendation and the Best Overall choice is the SodaStream Terra. Its unmatched combination of the easy-to-use Quick Connect system, reliable performance, compact design, and wide availability makes it the perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned seltzer lovers. For the best starting experience, I highly recommend the SodaStream Terra Value Bundle, which sets you up for months of hassle-free fizz.

This machine is perfect for you if…
* You prioritize speed and ease of use above all else.
* You want a reliable, consistent carbonation experience every time.
* You appreciate the convenience of a dishwasher-safe bottle.
* You want the most widely available CO2 exchange program.
* You’re looking for the best performance for the price.

It might not be ideal for you if…
* You demand a premium, all-metal appliance on your countertop.
* You want an ultra-quiet machine for an open-plan living space.
* The ritual of a pull-down lever is more appealing than a button.

If design is your absolute top priority and you’re willing to invest in a kitchen showpiece, the Aarke Carbonator III is a fantastic and worthy splurge that looks as good as the water it makes tastes.

Ultimately, my top pick for most homes remains the incredibly practical and effective SodaStream Terra. It’s the smartest and simplest way to start your endlessly customizable sparkling water journey.

Last update on 2026-02-17 at 08:12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API