6 Best Home Soda Water Dispensers Tested and Reviewed

   

The home soda maker market is growing by over 6% annually. You can save up to $450 a year with a soda water dispenser. We found the best options for every need.

• Best Overall: Drinkmate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker

• Best Budget: Philips Sparkling Water Maker

• Best for Design: Aarke Carbonator III

• Most Versatile: Drinkmate OmniFizz

• Easiest to Use: SodaStream Terra

• Best Portable Option: Drinkmate Spritzer

Key Takeaways

• Home soda makers save money. You can save up to $450 each year.

• The Drinkmate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker is the best overall. It carbonates almost any drink.

• Consider what you want in a soda maker. Think about carbonation control, size, bottle type, power, and CO2 compatibility.

The 6 Best Home Soda Water Dispensers Reviewed

   

We put the top models to the test to find the perfect fit for your kitchen. You can find our detailed findings on performance, design, and value below.

1. Drinkmate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker - Best Overall

The Drinkmate stands out by giving you the freedom to carbonate almost any beverage. This versatility makes it our top choice for creative drink makers. It operates without electricity, offering a sleek and simple design that fits into any kitchen.

What We Like

• You can carbonate any cold liquid, including juice, tea, wine, and cocktails.

• The design is simple and effective with a single button for carbonation.

• It is compatible with any standard 60L CO2 cartridge.

• The bottle locks securely into place, which helps prevent spills.

• Its pressure-release valve is specifically designed for carbonating liquids other than water.

What We Don't Like

• Finding your perfect fizz level requires some initial experimentation.

• The pressure release system adds a small extra step to the process.

• A piece of blue packaging tape was difficult to remove from the unit.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual

• Dimensions: 8 x 5 x 16 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free plastic

• Bottle Capacity: 1 Liter

• CO2 Compatibility: Standard 60L screw-in cylinders

2. Philips Sparkling Water Maker - Best Budget

The Philips Sparkling Water Maker delivers excellent performance without a high price tag. You get a durable and stylish machine that produces consistently bubbly water. Its slim, stainless steel finish feels high-end, making it a fantastic value.

What We Like

• The price is very affordable, often available for under $60.

• Its polished stainless steel body looks great and is built to last.

• You can easily control the carbonation level with manual presses.

• The slim profile takes up minimal counter space.

What We Don't Like

• It only carbonates water.

• A CO2 cartridge is not included with the purchase.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual

• Dimensions: 9.3 x 5.9 x 18.6 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free plastic

• Bottle Capacity: 1 Liter

• CO2 Compatibility: Standard 60L screw-in cylinders

Note on Value: Even after you purchase a separate CO2 canister, the Philips model is often more affordable than many competitors.

Soda Maker	Average Price
Philips Sparkling Water Maker	$55.92
Ninja Thirsti Drink System	$129.93
SodaStream Aqua Fizz	$142.60

3. Aarke Carbonator III - Best for Design

If you view kitchen appliances as decor, the Aarke Carbonator III is for you. This Swedish-designed soda water dispenser is built from steel, giving it a satisfying heft and unmatched durability. Its minimalist aesthetic was even shortlisted for a Dezeen design award in 2022.

What We Like

• The premium stainless steel construction ensures longevity.

• Its elegant, slim design elevates any countertop.

• The carbonation process is smooth and controlled by a simple lever.

• It is available in a wide range of beautiful finishes.

What We Don't Like

• It carries a premium price tag.

• You can only carbonate water with this machine.

• The nozzle can sometimes spray water outside the bottle.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual

• Dimensions: 6 x 10 x 16.3 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free PET plastic

• Bottle Capacity: 800 Milliliters

• CO2 Compatibility: Standard 60L screw-in cylinders

4. Drinkmate OmniFizz - Most Versatile

The OmniFizz takes the "carbonate anything" concept of the original Drinkmate and refines it. It is the ultimate tool for beverage experimentation. You can infuse bubbles directly into your favorite juices, teas, or craft cocktails, unlocking a new world of flavor.

What We Like

• Its patented Fizz Infuser lets you carbonate any cold beverage safely.

• You have precise control over the carbonation release.

• The machine is available in several colors to match your style.

• It works with all standard 60L CO2 cylinders.

What We Don't Like

• The Fizz Infuser cap has multiple parts that require careful cleaning.

• It is slightly more expensive than the base Drinkmate model.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual

• Dimensions: 8.5 x 5 x 16 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free plastic

• Bottle Capacity: 850 Milliliters

• CO2 Compatibility: Standard 60L screw-in cylinders

5. SodaStream Terra - Easiest to Use

The SodaStream Terra is designed for simplicity and convenience. Its standout feature is the Quick Connect CO2 system. You can snap the cylinder into place in seconds without any twisting or guesswork. This soda water dispenser makes daily carbonation effortless.

What We Like

• The Quick Connect system makes CO2 installation incredibly simple.

• The wide carbonation button is easy to press.

• It requires no electricity or batteries.

• The included bottle is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

What We Don't Like

• The all-plastic construction feels less premium than other models.

• You are limited to using SodaStream's proprietary Quick Connect CO2 cylinders.

• It is designed to carbonate water only.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual

• Dimensions: 7.8 x 11.1 x 17.2 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free plastic (dishwasher-safe)

• Bottle Capacity: 1 Liter

• CO2 Compatibility: SodaStream Quick Connect cylinders only

6. Drinkmate Spritzer - Best Portable Option

Enjoy sparkling drinks anywhere with the Drinkmate Spritzer. This handheld carbonator is small enough to pack for picnics, camping trips, or office use. Despite its size, it uses the same Fizz Infuser technology as its larger siblings, so you can carbonate any cold drink on the go.

What We Like

• Its compact, lightweight design is perfect for travel.

• You can carbonate any beverage, not just water.

• It is simple to assemble and use.

• The handheld form factor is easy to store.

What We Don't Like

• It uses smaller, less common 3-ounce CO2 cartridges.

• The smaller bottle size is not ideal for making large batches.

Key Specifications

• Power Source: Manual (Handheld)

• Dimensions: 3.5 x 3.5 x 12 inches

• Bottle Material: BPA-free plastic

• Bottle Capacity: 0.5 Liters

• CO2 Compatibility: Drinkmate 3 oz (10L) CO2 cylinders

How We Tested Each Soda Water Dispenser

   

You deserve to know how we picked our winners. We developed a detailed testing plan to give you a clear picture of each machine's performance. Our team spent hours assembling, carbonating, and tasting to find the best options available.

Our Testing Criteria

We evaluated each soda maker on a few key factors. Ease of use was our top priority. We looked at how simple it was to assemble the machine and install the CO2 canister. We also considered the machine's design and build quality. A sturdy, well-made dispenser feels better to use and lasts longer. Finally, we measured performance. We used tools like pressure gauges to get objective data on carbonation strength, ensuring our results went beyond just personal taste.

The Evaluation Process

Our hands-on testing followed a consistent, multi-step process for every model. This ensured a fair and thorough comparison.

1. Setup and Assembly: We unboxed each unit, noting the ease of inserting the CO2 canister and the overall sturdiness.

2. Carbonation Test: We carbonated both refrigerated and room-temperature water. We visually checked the bubble size and density.

3. Taste and Longevity: Our team tasted the seltzer, rating its flavor and bubble character. We then let it sit, observing bubble life after 5, 10, and 30 minutes.

4. Versatility Check: For models that could, we carbonated apple juice to test their ability to handle sugary liquids without clogging.

5. Ergonomics Panel: We had a panel of testers with different hand strengths rate how easy it was to attach the bottle and operate the machine.

Testing Tip: When using a machine that carbonates juice, always follow the instructions carefully. Adding flavorings before carbonating can create a fizzy, explosive mess and damage your machine.

What to Consider When Buying a Soda Maker

Choosing the right soda maker can transform your daily hydration. You should consider a few key factors to find the perfect match for your kitchen and lifestyle.

Carbonation Level and Control

Your ideal fizz level is personal. Many soda makers let you customize the carbonation. Some models, like the Sparkler, allow you to create everything from light bubbles to intense fizz just by pressing a button. Others may offer preset options like low, medium, and high. This control helps you find the perfect taste for your drinks.

Size and Countertop Footprint

You need to think about your kitchen space. Some machines, like the Aarke Carbonator, have a slim profile and small footprint. Other models, such as the SodaStream Aqua Fizz, can be quite tall. If you want to save counter space, some systems like the SeltzaHub can even be installed below your counter.

Bottle Material and Size

Most soda makers come with either plastic or glass bottles. Glass bottles are great because they do not absorb flavors or odors. They also keep your drinks bubbly for longer. Most brands, including Drinkmate, offer standard 1-liter bottles, which are perfect for making a few servings at a time.

Power Source: Electric vs. Manual

You can choose between electric and manual machines. Manual models are popular because they do not need an outlet. This makes them portable and easy to place anywhere in your kitchen. They also give you more control over the carbonation level with each press.

CO2 Canister Compatibility

The CO2 canister is the heart of your soda water dispenser. There are two main types:

• Screw-in Canisters: These have a threaded top and are compatible with many brands.

• Quick Connect Canisters: These have a pink top and snap into place, making installation easier.

Note: Some brands, like SodaStream, use proprietary Quick Connect cylinders. This limits you to their supply but can offer enhanced leak protection.

Price and Long-Term Cost

You should look at both the initial price and the ongoing costs. A machine might be affordable upfront, but the price of proprietary CO2 refills can add up. Universal cylinders often provide more flexibility and can reduce long-term costs.

We recommend the Drinkmate Sparkling Water and Soda Maker for its top performance and versatility. If you seek an affordable and stylish entry point, the Philips model offers fantastic value. Investing in the right soda water dispenser transforms your hydration habits and unlocks creative beverage possibilities right in your home.

FAQ

How long does a CO2 canister last?

A standard 60L CO2 canister typically makes up to 60 liters of sparkling water. Your personal fizz preference and daily use determine its exact lifespan in your home.

Can I use other brands' bottles with my machine?

You should use bottles designed for your specific machine. Using other brands can cause poor seals, leaks, or safety issues. Always check your user manual for compatibility.

Is homemade soda water cheaper than store-bought?

Yes, it is much cheaper. You pay for the machine once. After that, your only ongoing cost is for CO2 canister refills, which provides significant long-term savings.