TEST: 7 soda machines tested 2022

Do you drink a lot of carbonated water at home? If so, it might be a good idea to start carbonating that water yourself, instead of carrying heavy bottles from the supermarket. We tested 7 soda machines and selected one model as the test winner.

Stylish water bottles

How we did the test

The tests we carry out are independent and consist only of our own honest feedback on the products. Manufacturers, retailers and other third parties can’t influence the products used or the scores we give. The products have been used as they are intended to be used in reality. In our test of soda machines, the machines are used in everyday life in ordinary households. The models are then evaluated by the test families.

The following criteria were used as the basis for our assessment:

  • Function: How is the bottle inserted into the soda machine? How is the water carbonated?
  • Design: Is the soda machine stylish enough to have it standing out on the worktop? Does it fit on a kitchen counter under a cabinet?
  • Ease of use: Is it easy to understand how the machine works? How easy are the controls to understand? How easy is it to clean the bottles?

The results from these criteria are then given an overall score after being weighed against the machine’s price – then the models are ranked and we designate a test winner.

TEST: 7 soda machines tested 2022

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1. SodaStream Spirit - BEST CHOICE SODA MACHINE

Soda machine that’s a good price, can be used with one hand and also looks good on the kitchen worktop

Price class: Intermediate Energy source: Manual Includes CO2 cartridge: Yes

SodaStream Spirit

SodaStream’s Spirit model has a sleek and convenient design that doesn't take up unnecessary space. It comes in several colours to make it easy to find a machine that fits into your kitchen, whatever your decorative style, and because it’s manually operated it is very easy to position. The Spirit bottle design feels a little more upmarket than many of the other SodaStream models, and you can also buy bottles that are dishwasher safe.

Automatic attachment of the bottle

The SodaStream Spirit is very easy to use by simply opening the rear hatch and screwing the carbon dioxide cartridge into the bracket. Then you just close the hatch and start carbonating! One bottle is included with the machine and can be easily attached even with a one-handed grip, as it automatically fits into place. There is no indicator for the amount of carbon dioxide; instead this controlled manually by pressing buttons a different number of times. The recommendation is three presses for two seconds for normal bubbles and five times for two seconds for a much fizzier drink.

Water with small, fine bubbles

At first, it might feel odd to stand and count the number of times you press a button, but you soon learn how many presses suit your own taste. You get lots of small bubbles and the water is pleasant to drink.

We like the fact the SodaStream Spirit is easy to use with its one-handed grip, easy to position and has a stylish design at a great price. All of that, plus the great results in terms of fizz mean that we name Spirit as the best in test SodaStream.

Great price,stylish,convenient format,easy to use with one hand
No indicator for bubble quantity

4. Aarke

Manual, easy-to-use soda machine for the design enthusias

Price class: Premium Power source: Manual Includes CO2 cartridge: Yes

SodaStream Spirit

Aarke is an obvious brand for those who like design and don’t mind spending a little extra on a truly stylish machine. You can choose from a variety of colours and finishes to suit most kitchens. And the cordless operation makes it easy to place.

Easy to operate but fitting the bottle is tricky

The water is carbonated by pulling a lever down until a valve opens and you hear a hissing sound. If you want more carbon dioxide, you pull a couple of times more. There’s no indicator showing how much carbon dioxide you have added, but you quickly learn how long to pull for the required amount. It actually feels quite nice to pull the lever, a bit like having a beer tap at home – but for carbonated water.

The bottle is secured by screwing it into the top of the machine. This takes quite a few turns and you need to use two hands, which feels a bit fiddly when so many other machines have quick-attachment systems. Unfortunately, it’s also too easy to screw the bottle in on an angle, which is only noticeable once you’ve got halfway and then have to undo the bottle to start again. It isn't a huge problem, but it is something of a nuisance. Replacing the cartridge is very easy and is done from underneath by laying the machine down, without having to remove any parts.

Fits nicely in the designer kitchen and adorns the kitchen counter

While many soda machines feel plasticky, this is a robust machine you'll want to show off. It’s unexpectedly sleek and doesn't look at all bulky on the kitchen counter. It fits easily under a kitchen cabinet and doesn't require a power outlet.

This is a handsome piece that gives a really high quality impression. However, the bottle feels unexpectedly basic and can’t be distinguished from other factory PET bottles. That’s not a major problem, but it was a comment made by one of our test families. For example, other brands have glass bottles, which might have been a better fit for Aarke's potential target audience. When the bottle is filled up to the recommended level, it has a capacity of 800 ml. We’d have preferred it to contain at least one litre of water per carbonation, to save running between table and kitchen.

If this had only been a beauty contest, Aarke would have been the winner, but at this high price we also expect all the functions. Apart from the way you attach the bottle, it’s a great manual machine where you pay a good bit extra for the stylish design.

One-handed operation for inserting and removing the bottle,well-designed,electrically driven
Requires mains outlet,expensive

Common questions about soda machines

Which soda machine is the best?

In our test, the SodaStream Spirit was named the test winner. Features our testers appreciated were the single handed operation, good bubbles, attractive design and a nice convenient size.

How do soda machines work?

A soda machine allows you to turn normal tap water into carbonated water by forcing carbon dioxide gas into it. Instead of buying carbonated water in the shop, you can get plenty of the stuff at home in the kitchen in no time. To carbonate water at home you need a soda machine with a bottle and a carbon dioxide cartridge/cylinder. These are almost always sold together as a kit.

How do you use a soda machine?

Most work on the same basic principle. The machine is charged with a carbon dioxide cylinder, which in most cases is placed in a door on the back of the machine by simply screwing it into a nozzle. A bottle of water is attached to the front and then the desired amount of carbon dioxide is selected by pressing a button, either to add a preset amount, or by pressing the button for a given number of seconds.

How many presses are required?

More presses produce more bubbles, but the exact number required varies and is often indicated on the machine. Many soda machines are automatic and do the dosage themselves.

When do I replace the carbon dioxide cartridge?

It will be obvious when the cartridge is running low, as it will take a lot more presses to get the water well carbonated, and the machine won't sound the same. You can take the cartridge to most supermarkets and replace it with a new one for a small charge, instead of buying a brand new one.

Can you flavour carbonated water?

If you have childhood memories of the sugary soft drinks produced by soda machines, you don't need to worry. Today, there are several good flavours you can add, and with the right amount you should get them to taste just like the original brand soft drink. Well-known brands of soft drinks produce flavourings for soda machines.

How do I make flavoured carbonated water?

First you add the bubbles to the water as usual. Then add the flavour, to the quantity indicated on the bottle, screw on the cap and carefully turn the bottle upside down a few times to ensure that everything is thoroughly mixed. If you want a stronger or weaker taste, vary the amount of additive you put in.

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