Best Soda Makers for 2026

At a Glance

Category	Product	Why We Picked It
Best overall	SodaStream Terra	Reliable manual operation with good carbonation
Best value	Philips Soda Maker	Affordable and consistently bubbly
Best for versatility	Drinkmate OmniFizz	Carbonates any beverage including wine and juice
Best for customization	Ninja Thirsti	Electric system with flavor pods and size options
Best premium design	Aarke Carbonator 3	Sleek stainless steel with strong fizz
Also recommended	SodaStream Fizzi One Touch	Electric with three preset fizz levels
Also recommended	Breville InFizz Fusion	High-end, versatile for various beverages
Also recommended	Smeg Soda Maker	Stylish design with an easy twist operation

How we chose and tested

We evaluated soda makers based on carbonation quality, ease of use, and overall value. Our assessment considered how well each machine produces and maintains bubbles, the simplicity of setup and operation, and compatibility with different beverages. We prioritized products that deliver consistent results while fitting various kitchen spaces and budgets.

The best soda makers right now

SodaStream Terra - Best overall

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The SodaStream Terra strikes the best balance of price and performance, producing medium-sized, assertive bubbles that satisfy daily sparkling water drinkers. Its manual operation requires no electricity, and the simple button-press system creates consistent fizz with just a few pumps.

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Key highlights

Manual operation works anywhere without power outlets
Produces medium-sized, satisfying bubbles with good carbonation
Includes a starter kit with CO2 and Bubly Drops
Compact design fits easily on countertops or in cabinets
Quick Connect CO2 system simplifies canister installation

Pros

Consistent carbonation with clear bubble quality
Easy to use with intuitive bottle locking mechanism
Affordable initial investment with included supplies
Dishwasher-safe bottle simplifies cleaning
Small footprint saves counter space

Cons

Only works with water, not other beverages
Requires proprietary SodaStream CO2 canisters
Plastic construction feels less premium than metal options

Who it is for: Daily sparkling water drinkers who want reliable fizz without complexity or high cost.

Skip if

You want to carbonate juices, wine, or other beverages beyond water.

Philips Soda Maker - Best value

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The Philips Soda Maker delivers surprisingly good carbonation at a budget-friendly price, producing consistently bubbly water with manual control over fizz levels. Its slim and stylish design looks more expensive than it is while taking up minimal counter space.

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Key highlights

Affordable price point with solid performance
Manual carbonation control lets you customize fizz intensity
Slim and stylish design looks premium in any kitchen
Lightweight and easy to store when not in use
Produces consistent bubbles with 2-3 button presses

Pros

Excellent value for money
Easy to clean and maintain
Manual operation requires no electricity
Consistent carbonation results
Compact size fits small kitchens

Cons

CO2 canister not included with purchase
Limited to carbonating water only
Plastic bottle feels less durable than some competitors

Who it is for: Budget-conscious buyers who want reliable sparkling water without fancy features.

Skip if

You need to carbonate beverages other than water or want automatic operation.

Drinkmate OmniFizz - Best for versatility

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The Drinkmate OmniFizz stands out by carbonating virtually any chilled beverage, from water and juice to wine and cocktails. Its unique pressure-release system prevents foaming with non-water liquids, opening up creative drink possibilities you can't get with most soda makers.

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Key highlights

Carbonates water, juice, wine, cocktails, and more
Pressure-release system handles foamy beverages safely
Works with standard threaded CO2 canisters
Includes 2 reusable BPA-Free Carbonating Quick-Connect Bottles (1x 1L and 1x 0.5L)
Manual operation requires no electricity

Pros

Unmatched versatility for different beverages
Can revive flat soda or sparkling drinks
Compatible with widely available CO2 canisters
Includes 1-liter and 0.5-liter BPA-free bottles
Quiet operation compared to some models

Cons

Bottles are not dishwasher safe
Construction feels less sturdy than premium options
Learning curve for proper pressure release technique

Who it is for: Creative drink makers who want to carbonate juices wine or experiment with cocktails

Skip if

You only drink plain sparkling water and prefer simpler single purpose machines

Ninja Thirsti - Best for customization

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The Ninja Thirsti transforms soda making into a fully automated drink system, offering carbonation control, flavor pods, and serving size options in one electric appliance. It creates everything from plain seltzer to flavored sparkling drinks with vitamins or caffeine at the push of a button.

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Key highlights

Electric operation with preset carbonation levels
Compatible with over 20 flavor pods for customized drinks
Two drink sizes (12oz or 24oz)
Built-in water canister dispenses directly into your glass
Some pods include vitamins, caffeine, or hydration additives

Pros

Complete drink customization system
No bottles to fill or clean
Consistent results with preset programs
Wide variety of flavor options
Makes single servings quickly

Cons

Requires electricity and counter space
CO2 refills cost more than standard canisters
Some flavors use artificial sweeteners
Larger footprint than manual models

Who it is for: Households that want variety beyond plain seltzer and appreciate automated convenience.

Skip if

You prefer manual operation, only drink plain sparkling water, or have limited counter space.

Aarke Carbonator 3 - Best premium design

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The Aarke Carbonator 3 combines industrial-chic stainless steel design with solid carbonation performance, creating a soda maker that looks as good as it works. Its lever operation feels satisfyingly mechanical while producing fine, persistent bubbles in water.

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Key highlights

All stainless steel construction with premium finishes
Lever operation provides tactile feedback
Produces fine, champagne-like bubbles
Slim profile saves counter space
Compatible with standard threaded CO2 canisters

Pros

Beautiful design that enhances kitchen aesthetics
Solid, durable construction
Easy one-touch lever operation
Works with widely available CO2 canisters
Bubbles maintain their fizz well

Cons

Higher price than plastic alternatives
Only carbonates water, not other beverages
Bottle is not dishwasher safe
Can be loud during carbonation

Who it is for: Design-conscious buyers who want a stylish appliance that performs well and looks great on display.

Skip if

You're on a tight budget or want to carbonate beverages beyond water.

Also Good

SodaStream Fizzi One Touch - electric with three preset fizz levels.
Breville InFizz Fusion - high-end, versatile for various beverages.
Smeg Soda Maker - stylish design with an easy twist operation.

How to Choose

Consider these factors when selecting a soda maker:

Beverage compatibility: Most soda makers only carbonate water. If you want to fizz juice, wine, or cocktails, look for models specifically designed for versatility like the Drinkmate OmniFizz.

Operation type: Manual models work anywhere without power but require button presses. Electric models offer preset programs but need an outlet. Choose based on where you'll use it most.

CO2 system: Some machines use proprietary canisters like SodaStream's Quick Connect, while others work with standard threaded tanks. Standard tanks offer more refill options and potentially lower costs.

Design and materials: Plastic models cost less and work fine. Stainless steel options look premium and feel more durable but cost significantly more. Consider how much counter space you have and whether aesthetics matter.

Bottle considerations: Check if bottles are dishwasher safe, what sizes are included, and replacement costs. Some models come with multiple bottles for different serving needs.

FAQ

How much does it cost to use a soda maker long term?

After the initial machine purchase, you'll need CO2 canister refills. Standard 60-liter canisters typically carbonate 30 to 60 liters of water depending on your fizz preference. Refill costs vary by brand and exchange program, but homemade sparkling water usually costs pennies per liter compared to store-bought bottles.

Can I use filtered or tap water in my soda maker?

Yes, you can use either. Most manufacturers recommend cold water for better carbonation retention. Filtered water may produce cleaner-tasting results if your tap water has strong mineral flavors, but it's not required.

How do I clean and maintain my soda maker?

Wipe the machine exterior with a damp cloth as needed. Bottles should be washed after each use. Check if yours are dishwasher safe or require hand washing. Never use the machine with hot liquids, and follow manufacturer instructions for CO2 canister replacement.

Are soda makers actually environmentally friendly?

Yes, when used regularly. By replacing single-use plastic bottles or aluminum cans with reusable bottles, you significantly reduce waste. The CO2 canisters are typically refillable and recyclable through exchange programs, creating a closed-loop system.

What's the difference between seltzer, club soda, and sparkling water?

Seltzer and sparkling water are pure carbonated water. Club soda has added minerals for a slightly salty taste. Tonic water contains quinine and sweeteners for its distinctive bitter-sweet flavor. Most home soda makers produce seltzer or sparkling water that you can customize as desired.