(Updated September 28, 2017)
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Watch Our Soda Maker Review
How Do I Choose the Best Soda Maker?
When it comes to convenience, soda makers are definitely up there, along with
coffee makers,
electric can openers, and the ever-popular
margarita machine…Soda makers allow you to make carbonated beverages in the comfort of your own home without needing a huge, commercial machine or spending lots of money in the process. Soda makers also produce much healthier drinks in comparison to standard carbonated drinks you buy at the store. You know exactly what is going into your chosen beverage, which is perfect for those who want to keep an eye on what they are consuming. Soda makers work by carbonating plain old tap or drinking water by filling it with CO2 through the use of cartridges or canisters. There is something quite enjoyable, not to mention thrifty, about making your own fizzy drinks at home.
Before you start shopping around for your new, healthy soda maker, however, there are a few things you may want to consider before making a purchase. Firstly, there are actually two types of soda machines to choose from; countertop styles and siphons. If you need a soda maker for a small business like a restaurant or cafe, then a countertop soda maker is ideal as it makes substantial amounts of soda (often 6 liters!) for a fraction of the cost of simply buying in soda from a store. Siphons, however, are a lot smaller than countertop products and are therefore much more portable. You install them on the top of your chosen still beverage and then simply push a button to start carbonating. The only downside with a siphon product, however, is that it can take longer to carbonate when compared to a countertop soda maker and has a much smaller yield too.
Another thing to consider before making your purchase is how much space you have in your kitchen area too. Like we mentioned previously, countertop machines are much larger than siphon products and therefore take up much more space. If you are simply using your soda maker every now and then, then you may want to opt for a siphon machine to save on space. Siphon machines are also much easier to store away in a cupboard or draw after use too. If, however, you are using the soda maker for a more commercial use then you may want to measure your kitchen area before purchasing a countertop product. Another thing you may want to bear in mind too is that some countertop soda makers will come with CO2 canisters included, therefore you will want to double check this before purchasing canisters separately.
Price
When it comes to the cost of your new soda maker machine there are a few factors that will affect the price of your product. Firstly, countertop soda makers will cost significantly more than siphon machines due to their commercial style and the fact they can produce a lot more soda. You can expect to pay anywhere between $60 and $250, with larger products often falling at the higher end of this scale. Some countertop soda makers also include CO2 canisters too which can also bump up the price.
Siphon soda machines, however, are a lot cheaper and will cost you anything between $45 and $55. Siphon machines that can produce more soda will come in at the higher end of this scale. There are cheaper soda makers available in both siphon ($30 or less) and countertop styles ($50 or less), but be aware that these products won’t be as durable and may need to be replaced after repeated use.
Features
When it comes to the features you will want to be included in your new soda maker this is going to depend on your own personal preferences as well as the type of soda maker you have opted for. There are a few features, however, that we recommend keeping an eye out for to ensure you choose a high-quality product.
Here are some important features to look for…
- Glass Carafe (Countertop Only)
- CO2 Canisters Included
- Compact
- Fast Carbonating Time
Construction and Design
When shopping around for a new countertop soda maker we recommend looking for products that come with a glass carafe. Most countertop products will include a carafe but this is usually made from a plastic material. These types of carafes often contain harmful chemicals such as BPA, therefore a glass carafe is a much safer choice, especially if you have children. Glass carafes also keep your beverage colder for much longer, especially if you put them in the fridge first!
Another useful feature to look out for is the inclusion of CO2 canisters. This will mean your soda machine will come with everything you need so get started straight away without having to purchase canisters separately. These types of products can also save you a lot of money and inform you of the exact type of canisters that are suitable for your product.
Finally, we recommend keeping an eye out for products that are compact in design, especially if you have purchased a siphon machine. The more compact the product then the easier it is to take it away with you on picnics, weekends away or simply a get together with friends. It will also make it MUCH easier when it comes to storing the product after use.
Performance and Ease of Use
When it comes to caring for your new soda machine there really isn’t much to it! If you have opted for a countertop machine then it’s a good idea to give the product a wipe down after each use as the syrups used in your soda creations can be quite sticky. Most carafes that are included with soda makers are dishwasher friendly too so you can simply pop them in the dishwasher once you are finished. If you have opted for a siphon then these products can simply be wiped down with warm soapy water after each use…simple!
What is the Best Soda Maker?
Fingers crossed, after reading through our buying guide you have now figured out what type of soda maker is most suitable to your needs as well as all the features you would like included in your new product. This will make it a lot easier when it comes to narrowing down your options and selecting the ideal soda maker for you, your friends and your family! So, let’s get looking at our top 5 picks, shall we?
Our Top Choice
SodaStream's Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit is great for those new to carbonating their own drinks. Its simple design means making your own fizzy drinks is a breeze! If, however, you are after a more recent product that is slightly higher end from the SodaStream brand then check out their
Source Home Soda Maker Starter Kit, available in black, red and white.
SodaStream Fountain Jet Home Soda Maker Starter Kit, Available in Black and Silver or Cherry Red
SodaStream Soda Machine-1312111013-Available in Black and Silver or Cherry Red
Features
SodaStream is the go-to brand when it comes to making your own carbonated drinks at home. Powered by a CO2 carbonator, SodaStream products allow you to turn simple tap water into fun and tasty sparkling water in seconds! This also means that SodaStream products don’t run on batteries or electricity, making their whole range of products eco-friendly too! You can control the level of carbonation in your desired beverage, so if you don’t want the kids to be drinking too much pop or sugar, you can make their drinks less carbonated and more diluted and save all the fizz for yourself. (We won’t tell!)
People seem to be pleased as punch with the SodaStream Fountain Jet - Starter Kit! Its simplicity means it can be used by the whole family with ease, creating delicious fizzy drinks at the touch of a button. With no mess, this product is sure to be a hit with parents everywhere. Its attractive style also means it can be left out, without the annoyance of having to pack it up and put it away once you are done. With SodaStream boasting over 60 different recipes (including diet and low fructose corn syrup flavors) you can fizz away to your heart’s content. With no empties or high costs, this is the only product you will want for all your carbonated drink needs!
If this particular model isn’t quite to your taste, check out SodaStream’s HUGE assortment of other fizzy drink products to find one for you!
Best Value
The Orignal SodaSparkle Home Soda Maker Kit is a top choice for anyone looking to create their own tasty fizzy treats at home or on the move, and when you run out of canisters? Don’t fear, simply hop online and pick up
24x SodaSparkle™ Disposable & Recyclable CO2 Soda Chargers, and carbonate to your heart's content!
SodaSparkle Home Soda Maker Kit, Easy-To-Use Sparkling Carbonated Seltzer Beverage Maker In Black
SodaSparkle Home Soda Maker-BLACK
Features
SodaSparkle's convenient and simple products are a cost-effective way to have carbonated drinks wherever and whenever you choose, eliminating the need for endless plastic bottles that you have to lug to and from the shop. Its disposable CO2 canister chargers are also a more energy-efficient way to enjoy carbonated beverages. Not only are these products great for the environment and for you, they are pretty easy on your bank balance too!
The Original SodaSparkle Home Drinks Maker's small and compact design makes it not only easy to store, but portable too! Just chuck it in your bag and be the life of any outdoor event. Whether it’s a picnic with friends or a family BBQ, people are sure to love this fun and easy way to enjoy carbonated drinks. SodaSparkle has a huge assortment of healthier, preservative-free, carbonated beverages available, so you can still enjoy the great taste of pop without worrying about your waistline. And for the party animals, it’s easy to make a variety of tasty cocktails with this machine, too! The Original Home Drinks Machine includes the machine, 5X CO2 chargers and 1L bottle, everything you need to get started. With 5 CO2 canisters, you won’t have to worry about refilling this product for a while (unless people keep inviting you and your new machine to parties; we wouldn’t blame them!)
We absolutely loved the 1950s feel of this swish soda maker from KitchenAid. If silver isn’t quite your style then check out the equally as fabulous
Empire Red Version instead!
KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker Powered By SodaStream-Contour Silver. Available In 7 Other Colors.
KitchenAid Soda Maker- KSS3121CU-Contour Silver
Features
KitchenAid has been creating high-quality kitchenware for almost a century, focusing primarily on creating appliances with quality performance, craftsmanship and everlasting design. As KitchenAid is the only brand today that focuses specifically on kitchenware, you can rest easy knowing every attention to detail went into making your chosen product. With the majority of KitchenAid products available in an extensive array of designs and styles, you can choose a product that not only works superbly but looks fabulous too. You can even match it to your current kitchen decor!
The KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker is available in a huge assortment of colors (green, orange and purple, just to name a few). Its premium die cast metal housing means it's durable enough to be used every single day, which is perfect as that is exactly what you will want to do! It also means the product is easy to clean. The soft grip handle on the carbonation lever makes this product easy to use. It allows you to control the carbonation levels of your desired fizzy drink, which is perfect for kids and those who prefer their beverage with less of a kick.
As this product is linked with popular soda maker brand SodaStream, it means this KitchenAid appliance is also compatible with SodaStream products. With over 60 different flavours available from SodaStream, this is definitely a bonus! With the Sparkling KitchenAid Beverage Maker you will receive a 3oz CO2 tank, a 1L BPA-free reusable bottle AND a starter pack of 3 flavors, all of which are under a 1-year warranty.
Check out the other colors available in the KitchenAid Sparkling Beverage Maker collection to make sure you find the perfect style for you and your kitchen!
We loved iSi’s Stainless Steel Soda Siphon due to its whole range of clever features to help make this product easy and simple to use. If however the style of this siphon is a bit too bland for your tastes, check out the
iSi 2248 Soda Siphon, available in aluminum, black or white!
iSi North America Stainless Steel Soda Siphon 26-Ounce
iSi North America Soda Siphon-1004-Stainless Steel
Features
iSi has been creating pressurized gas systems for over 50 years. Known worldwide for its superiority in this field, iSi now sell products to more than 80 countries worldwide, meaning this is a top brand to look for when it comes to pressurized gas systems.
The high quality, stainless steel design of the iSi North America Stainless Steel Soda Siphon means it is not only easy to clean but dependable too. Even the clumsiest of hands will have a hard time damaging this product! Its small design means you can take this product with you wherever you go. Each single use of this product's soda cartridges provides 26 ounces of the bubbliest water (we recommend using cold water for best results), and is an eco-friendly way of creating your own soda water at home, work and just about anywhere! It has a maximum filling volume of 0.75 L (~25 fl.oz.), 1 L (1 US Quart), a pressure control valve for maximum comfort and safety, and an ergonomic charger holder with non-slip silicone grip. There's a 2-year warranty.
If you like this product, then check out iSi’s whole range of siphoning products. They're also available in several other colors for the fashion-conscious siphon users among you!
Innovee’s Aluminum Soda Siphon is a terrific gadget for anyone wanting to make tasty, high-quality soda at home. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a cocktail whizz then make sure to check out Innovee’s
Cocktail Premium Bar Set Too!
Innovee Professional 1 Liter Aluminum Soda Siphon-Uses Standard CO2 Charger (Not Included)
Innovee Professional Soda Siphon-Aluminum
Features
Innovee has bar essentials covered. From intricately designed cocktail shaker sets to iron lemon squeezers to add some zing to your drink of choice, Innovee has it all! Its products are easy to use, and affordable (that’s a word we all love to hear). If you fancy yourself a bit of an expert in the drinks making department, then Innovee is the brand for you!
The Innovee Aluminum Soda Siphon's sleek design means you can leave it on your bar or counter for all to see without having to worry about putting it away. You can make the bubbliest of water with half the effort of going to the shops and buying it yourself, making this product eco-friendly too! The intricate design includes a durable pressure regulator with added lid for a secure fit and zero drips, handy for when you are trying to maintain an air of sophistication when making drinks. With step-by-step instructions, this siphon is easy to use, and even comes with a handy cocktail recipe e-book so you can really impress your guests. It's also dishwasher safe!
Use Innovee’s huge range of other barware products to really get the party started!
Get the Best Soda Maker of 2020!
Now you have a better understanding of what kind of machine you need and can FINALLY start getting down to the fun bit of actually shopping for your favorite product! These brands are all renowned for their great quality and durability, so you can focus on looking for products that are suited to your needs and budget rather than worrying if your soda machine will blow up after its first use. We have chosen our personal favorite machine to feature from each brand, but if these products aren’t for you, all these brands have a huge array of other products to choose from instead!
Our Top Choice
SodaStream Fountain Jet-Starter Kit
Best Value
SodaSparkle Original Home Drinks Maker
KitchenAid SodaStream Sparkling Beverage Maker
iSi North America Stainless Steel Soda Siphon
Innovee Professional Soda Siphon
