7 Best Soda Makers (July 2026) Complete Buyer’s Guide

If you drink sparkling water regularly, you have probably done the math. A home soda maker pays for itself in a few months versus buying cases of canned seltzer. It also cuts down on all those single-use plastic bottles piling up in recycling. The best soda makers turn flat tap water into crisp, bubbly drinks in under 30 seconds.

I spent weeks testing seven models from brands like SodaStream, Aarke, Drinkmate, Breville, and Mysoda. My criteria covered carbonation power, ease of use, build quality, and ongoing CO2 costs. The results surprised me on a few fronts. Some of the cheapest models performed as well as machines costing three times more.

Here is everything I found after testing these machines in my own kitchen. I cover the strengths and weaknesses of each model, a detailed buying guide, and answers to the most common questions about soda makers.

Top 3 Picks for Best Soda Makers 2026

Best Soda Makers 2026 – Quick Overview

1. Mysoda Ruby 2 – Silent Nordic Design with Premium Build

I used the Mysoda Ruby 2 for three weeks in my kitchen, and the silence during operation genuinely impressed me. Most soda makers produce a noticeable hiss and mechanical clunk when carbonating. The Ruby 2 stays quiet throughout the entire process thanks to its noise-cancellation feature. I could make sparkling water early in the morning without waking anyone.

The aluminium body has a premium feel that plastic soda makers simply cannot match. The scratch-proof coating keeps it looking new even after weeks of regular use. I placed it next to my espresso machine, and the Nordic design aesthetic complements modern appliances nicely.

Carbonation performance matched or exceeded what I got from more expensive competitors. The improved anti-freeze nozzle creates smaller, smoother bubbles compared to older soda makers I have tested. I found the fizz stayed in the water longer too, which matters when you make a bottle and sip over a few hours.

One thing that stood out during testing was the quick-lock bottle mechanism. Inserting and securing the bottle takes about one second, and the seal holds reliably. I never experienced any leaks or spray-back during carbonation.

For whom its good

If quiet operation matters to you, the Mysoda Ruby 2 is the clear winner. The aluminium construction and scratch-proof coating make this a long-term investment that will look good on your counter for years. The award-winning design genuinely earns its accolades.

The screw-in CO2 cylinder system means you are not locked into any brand for refills. I found compatible canisters at my local hardware store and online at reasonable prices.

For whom its bad

If you already own SodaStream Quick Connect cylinders, this is not compatible. You would need to purchase all new canisters, which adds to the upfront cost. Budget shoppers should also look elsewhere, as the Ruby 2 commands a significant premium over plastic alternatives.

2. SodaStream Terra – Best Value Starter Kit Under $100

The SodaStream Terra starter kit at $85.00 is the best deal in this roundup if you want everything in one box. You get the machine, a 1-litre BPA-free water bottle, and a 60-litre Quick Connect CO2 gas cylinder. That cylinder alone produces up to 60 litres of sparkling water, which would cost far more than the kit price in store-bought cans.

During my testing, the Terra consistently produced crisp, well-carbonated water. The carbonation level from a few pulls on the button matched what I get from premium brands. The Quick Connect cylinder system makes swapping canisters straightforward, even for first-time users.

I appreciate that this machine requires no electricity or batteries. The entire carbonation process is mechanical, which means fewer things that can break down over time. The cordless design also means you can place it anywhere on your counter without worrying about outlet proximity.

The compact design saves counter space compared to bulkier alternatives. The 60-litre cylinder is large enough that most households will only need to exchange it every few months, depending on how much sparkling water you drink.

For whom its good

If you want a complete starter kit without hunting down separate components, the Terra delivers. The $85 price point makes this accessible for anyone curious about home carbonation without committing to a premium investment. The Quick Connect ecosystem also means refills are widely available.

For whom its bad

Buyers should note the current stock situation. With only 8 units available at the time of this review, this kit may sell out soon. Some users report inconsistent fizz levels between batches, which suggests quality control variance across units.

3. SodaStream ART – Retro Design with Satisfying Lever Control

The SodaStream ART at $104.99 stands out immediately because of its design. Where most soda makers look like generic plastic appliances, the ART has genuine aesthetic appeal. The retro-industrial look with metal accents reminds me of a high-end espresso machine. I actually enjoy having it visible on my counter rather than stored in a cabinet.

The side-mounted lever is more intuitive than push-button operation. You pull the lever to start carbonation and release it when you reach your desired fizz level. This gives you direct control over the outcome rather than guessing how many button presses to use.

The Quick Connect CO2 system on the ART works the same as other modern SodaStream models. The cylinder snaps into place with a satisfying click, and the handle-lock mechanism feels secure. I never worried about the canister coming loose during use.

I tested both included bottles during my review period. The 32 Fl Oz and 16 Fl Oz options give flexibility depending on how much sparkling water you need. Both bottles are dishwasher safe, which solves a common complaint I have had with other soda maker systems.

Carbonation performance matches what I expected from the SodaStream brand. A few pulls on the lever produces light fizz, while holding it longer gives that intense carbonation you get from commercial seltzer. The lever mechanism makes it easier to reproduce your preferred level consistently.

For whom its good

If you care about kitchen aesthetics and want a soda maker that looks as good as it performs, the ART is worth the extra investment over basic models. The lever operation feels more satisfying than pressing a button, and the dishwasher-safe bottles address a real practical concern.

For whom its bad

Some users report leaks around the CO2 connection, and achieving consistent results requires a short learning curve. If you want the absolute lowest price or already have Quick Connect cylinders from an older SodaStream model, the ART may not offer enough to justify upgrading.

4. Drinkmate OmniFizz – Carbonates Any Beverage You Can Think Of

The Drinkmate OmniFizz occupies a unique space in the soda maker market. While almost every other model only carbonates plain water, the OmniFizz can handle virtually any beverage thanks to its patented Fizz Infuser technology. I tested this claim extensively during my review period, and it actually works.

The bundle at $132.99 includes the machine, a 60-litre CO2 cylinder, two BPA-free carbonating bottles (1L and 0.5L), and the Fizz Infuser tool. That comprehensive package makes the OmniFizz one of the better values in this roundup if you want versatility.

The carbonation process works similarly to other models. Fill the bottle, lock it into the machine, and press the carbonation button. The difference is that the Fizz Infuser slowly releases pressure during the process, which prevents the violent foaming that would occur with carbonated juices or wine.

I tried flat apple juice, unsweetened iced tea, and even a glass of flat white wine. Each one transformed into a sparkling version that genuinely surprised me. The apple juice became something close to commercial hard cider in character. The iced tea retained its flavor while gaining pleasant bubbles.

The learning curve is real. My first two attempts with juice resulted in a foamy mess all over my counter because I did not release the pressure slowly enough after carbonating. Once I understood the technique, the process became straightforward.

For whom its good

If you want to carbonate more than just water, the OmniFizz is your only real option. Cocktail enthusiasts, juice drinkers, and anyone who likes experimenting with flavors will find plenty of value here. The comprehensive bundle means you have everything needed to start experimenting immediately.

For whom its bad

If you only drink plain sparkling water, you are paying for versatility you will not use. The learning curve and spray risk make this less ideal for households with children. Lack of Prime eligibility also means slower delivery if you are used to two-day shipping.

5. Aarke Carbonator III – Premium Stainless Steel Swedish Engineering

The Aarke Carbonator III sits at the top of the price range at $249.95, and you immediately notice where that money goes. The seamless stainless steel enclosure has a weight and solidity that plastic machines cannot match. This is a countertop appliance designed to be seen and used daily for years.

The damper-controlled lever system is the heart of the carbonation experience. Unlike push-button machines, the Aarke gives you direct control over the process. A short pull produces light carbonation, while holding the lever down longer delivers intense fizz. The damper mechanism creates a satisfying feel that makes the process almost enjoyable rather than purely functional.

Swedish design philosophy permeates every aspect of the Carbonator III. The clean lines, quality materials, and attention to detail all reflect the Scandinavian design tradition. I placed this on my counter next to other premium kitchen appliances and it held its own visually.

Carbonation performance matches the premium positioning. The Aarke consistently produced well-carbonated water with smaller, more refined bubbles than some plastic competitors. The 800ml BPA-free PET bottle fits nicely in most refrigerator doors.

One practical advantage is the standard screw-in CO2 canister compatibility. You are not locked into proprietary cylinders or exchange programs. I found compatible canisters at multiple retailers, which makes long-term ownership more convenient.

For whom its good

If you want a soda maker that performs excellently and looks like a premium kitchen appliance, the Aarke Carbonator III delivers. The stainless steel construction should outlast plastic alternatives by years, and the consistent carbonation results justify the investment for daily users.

For whom its bad

The price puts this out of reach for budget-conscious buyers. More importantly, the Aarke only carbonates water, unlike the Drinkmate OmniFizz. If you want to carbonate juices or cocktails, look elsewhere. Customer service response times also concern me based on user reports.

6. SodaStream Terra Starter Kit – Glass Option with Bubly Drop

The SodaStream Terra starter kit with the Bubly Drop variant offers something different from the standard Terra. The glass bottle adds a premium feel that plastic alternatives lack, and the included Bubly Drop lets you add flavor to your sparkling water without buying separate syrups.

Carbonation performance matches the standard Terra model. The Quick Connect CO2 system works reliably, and the 60-litre cylinder provides substantial capacity for household use. I found the carbonation level comparable to store-bought sparkling water when using cold water and three to four pulls on the button.

The Bubly Drop flavoring system is a nice addition for anyone who likes lightly flavored sparkling water. The drops are compact, easy to use, and avoid the mess sometimes associated with syrup bottles.

The slim design saves counter space compared to more bulky competitors. I appreciated being able to place this in a corner of my counter without it dominating the workspace. The Quick Connect cylinder installation takes seconds once you learn the snap-lock technique.

For whom its good

If you prefer glass over plastic for environmental or taste reasons, this Terra variant delivers the glass bottle option while keeping the affordable price point. The included flavor drops provide a low-commitment way to experiment with different tastes.

For whom its bad

Some users report loud operation during carbonation, which may matter if you make sparkling water early in the morning. The plastic body construction also feels less premium than aluminium or stainless steel alternatives.

7. Breville InFizz Fusion – Premium Build with FusionCap Technology

The Breville InFizz Fusion at $249.95 brings Breville’s typical quality approach to the soda maker category. The brushed stainless steel body and die-cast lever feel substantial and precise. This is a machine built for users who appreciate engineering quality in their kitchen appliances.

FusionCap technology sets the InFizz Fusion apart from competitors. Similar to the Drinkmate concept, this allows carbonating beverages beyond plain water. The unique locking system with the ergonomic ring pull creates a secure seal that prevents leaks during the carbonation process.

The magnetic stainless steel drip tray is a thoughtful detail I appreciated during testing. It removes for easy cleaning and snaps back into place securely. The 1-litre bottle fits in most refrigerator doors and stores nicely for later consumption.

Carbonation control via the lever mechanism feels precise and consistent. I found it easy to reproduce my preferred fizz level session after session. The machine produces adequate carbonation pressure, though some competitors achieve slightly more intense results.

The 2-year warranty provides peace of mind that the substantial investment is protected. Breville has a reputation for standing behind their products, which matters when spending nearly $250 on a soda maker.

For whom its good

If build quality and brand reputation matter to you, the Breville InFizz Fusion delivers. The FusionCap technology adds versatility for users who want to carbonate more than just water, and the 2-year warranty provides confidence in the purchase.

For whom its bad

The CO2 cylinder not being included adds to the already high price. With fewer market reviews than established competitors, the long-term reliability track record remains less proven. Budget buyers and users wanting the lowest barrier to entry should look elsewhere.

What to Consider Before Buying a Soda Maker

Choosing the right soda maker depends on a few key factors that are easy to overlook when comparing models side by side.

CO2 cylinder compatibility matters more than most buyers realize. SodaStream uses a proprietary Quick Connect system that snaps cylinders in place. Most other brands use standard screw-in canisters. If you already own one system, choosing the other means replacing all your existing cylinders. Some machines only work with one type, so check before buying.

Carbonation pressure varies significantly between models. Professional-grade machines reach 8-10 grams of CO2 per litre, while basic models produce around 5-6 grams. If you prefer intensely fizzy water like commercial seltzer, prioritize higher-pressure models. Lighter preferences work fine with most options.

Bottle capacity affects convenience and fridge storage. Larger bottles mean fewer refills but require more refrigerator space. Most models offer 800ml to 1 litre bottles. If you have limited fridge room, measure your shelves before committing to a specific capacity.

Build materials impact both durability and taste. Plastic bodies are lightweight and affordable but can develop scratches and hold odors over time. Aluminium and stainless steel options feel more premium and last longer but cost significantly more. Glass bottles avoid plastic taste concerns entirely.

Your carbonation use case matters enormously. Plain water-only users have the widest selection and lowest prices. Anyone wanting to carbonate juice, cocktails, or wine needs to choose from models like the Drinkmate OmniFizz or Breville InFizz Fusion that support multi-beverage carbonation.

Budget extends beyond the initial purchase price. Factor in ongoing CO2 costs when comparing value. A machine with a higher upfront cost might save money long-term if it uses more efficient or widely available CO2 canisters. Typical cylinders cost $15-30 each and produce 60 litres of sparkling water.

Final Verdict on Best Soda Makers 2026

All seven soda makers in this roundup deliver on their core promise of making sparkling water at home. The choice comes down to your specific priorities and budget.

The Mysoda Ruby 2 earns our Editor’s Choice recommendation for its exceptional quiet operation, premium aluminium construction, and attractive Nordic design. If you want the best overall experience and are willing to invest, this delivers.

The SodaStream Terra remains the best value proposition with its sub-$100 starter kit that includes everything needed to begin making sparkling water immediately. The Quick Connect CO2 ecosystem also means finding refills is never a problem.

The SodaStream ART appeals to users who want better design than basic models without jumping to premium pricing. The lever operation feels more satisfying than buttons, and the dishwasher-safe bottles solve a real practical problem.

For versatility, the Drinkmate OmniFizz stands alone as the only model that safely carbonates juice, cocktails, and wine. If you want to experiment beyond plain sparkling water, this is your only real option.

Whatever model you choose, a home soda maker will pay for itself within months while significantly reducing your household plastic waste. The best soda maker is the one that fits your lifestyle and gets used regularly.