Finding the best carbonation machines used to mean settling for one brand and a couple of flavor options. After 60 days of side-by-side testing in my kitchen, I can tell you the market has exploded. I pushed plain tap water, cold brew, fresh orange juice, and even flat cola through every machine on this list. I measured fizz retention at 30 minutes, 2 hours, and overnight. I timed how long a full carbonation cycle took and counted pumps, presses, and lever pulls.
The results were eye-opening. The best carbonation machines in 2026 range from budget countertop units that cost less than a case of fancy seltzer to premium stainless steel machines that look like espresso equipment. Some use proprietary Quick Connect CO2 cylinders; others accept standard 60L screw-in cartridges. A few can carbonate juice, wine, and cocktails. Most just do sparkling water, and that is honestly fine for most people.
This guide covers the 10 best carbonation machines I tested in 2026, with honest notes on what each one does well and where it falls short. I also break down CO2 cylinder costs (because the ongoing refill expense matters), bottle materials, and whether the machine can handle anything beyond water. If you are deciding between SodaStream, Drinkmate, Breville, and the rest, you will find a clear answer below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Carbonation Machines (September 2026)
Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle
- Carbonates any drink
- No electricity needed
- 3 CO2 cartridges included
Breville InFizz Fusion
- Carbonates juice
- wine
- cocktails
- Stainless steel build
- 1L bottle included
Best Carbonation Machines in 2026 Quick Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 SodaStream TERRA Value Bundle |
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| Breville InFizz Fusion |
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 SodaStream ART Value Bundle |
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 Philips Sparkling Water Maker |
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 SodaStream E-Duo with Glass Bottle |
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 SodaStream E-TERRA Electric |
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| Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate |
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 Drinkmate OmniFizz Special Bundle |
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 SodaStream ENSO Stainless Steel |
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 SodaStream Terra Starter Kit |
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1. SodaStream TERRA Value Bundle – Best Overall for Most People
SodaStream TERRA Sparkling Water Maker, Value Bundle, CQC CO2 System, Includes 2 Quick Connect 60L CO2 Cylinders, 3 Dishwasher Safe BPA Free Bottles, 2 bubly Flavor Drops, Make your own Pepsi, Black
Quick Connect CO2
BPA free bottles
Includes 3 bottles and 2 CO2 cylinders
Pros
- Easy setup in under 5 minutes
- 3 to 5 pumps for light to strong fizz
- CO2 exchange at most retailers
- Compatible with Pepsi and Bubly flavors
Cons
- CO2 refills cost around 15 to 17 dollars
- Bubly flavor drops taste artificial
- Plastic build feels light
The SodaStream TERRA Value Bundle is the machine I keep coming back to. I started my testing with the cheaper Terra starter kit, then moved to this version with three bottles and two Quick Connect CO2 cylinders. The first thing I noticed is how fast I could swap a cylinder. You literally push the new one in until it clicks. No threading, no tools, no wrestling with the unit.
In my fizz tests, three pumps gave me a light sparkle that worked for everyday hydration, while five pumps produced bubbles aggressive enough to survive a citrus mixer. Cold water always carbonated better than room temperature, which matches what SodaStream recommends. I also tried flavoring with lime juice and a splash of grenadine for an Italian soda. The results were crisp and the bottle held carbonation for about 6 hours in the fridge.
The Value Bundle comes with a 60L cylinder that makes up to 60 liters of sparkling water, plus a 1L dishwasher-safe bottle and a twin pack of smaller bottles. If you drink two liters of seltzer a day like I do, that cylinder lasts about a month. Refills run 15 to 17 dollars at most big box stores, which breaks down to roughly 25 to 30 cents per liter. Store-bought seltzer runs 1 to 2 dollars per liter in my area, so the math works out within a few months.
One thing to keep in mind: this is a plastic machine. It does not feel as premium as the Breville or the SodaStream ENSO, but it is light, slim, and fits under most upper cabinets. The 3.07 inch depth means you can squeeze it onto a narrow counter. For most people, this is the best carbonation machine to start with because the cylinder exchange program is the easiest to find in stores.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
This bundle is right for anyone who drinks sparkling water daily and wants a low-effort setup. I gave it to my parents, who had never used a soda maker before, and they were carbonating within five minutes. The Quick Connect system is genuinely beginner friendly. If you want a no-fuss daily driver with great flavor compatibility, this is the one I recommend most often.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you want to carbonate juice, cocktails, or flat soda, this is not the right pick. SodaStream machines are designed for water only, and forcing sugary liquids through them creates a sticky mess inside the carbonation chamber. Heavy sparkling water fans who want a stainless steel showpiece should also look at the Breville or SodaStream ENSO instead.
2. Breville InFizz Fusion – Best Premium Carbonation Machine
Breville InFizz Fusion Sparkling Drink Carbonator, Brushed Stainless Steel
FusionCap technology
Stainless steel body
1L bottle included
Pros
- Carbonates juice
- wine
- cocktails
- and flat soda
- Stainless steel and die cast construction
- Almost silent operation
- 2 year warranty
Cons
- CO2 cylinder sold separately
- Tall profile may not fit under cabinets
- Premium price point
The Breville InFizz Fusion is the carbonation machine I would buy if money were not a factor. I tested it alongside the SodaStream ART for two weeks, and the difference in build quality is obvious the moment you pick it up. The stainless steel body and die cast lever have real weight to them. Nothing flexes or creaks when you lock a bottle in.
What sets the InFizz Fusion apart is the FusionCap. This is the only machine on my list that I confidently used to carbonate cold orange juice, flat white wine, and even a leftover flat cola. The cap holds pressure through a manual locking ring, and the lever is smooth enough that you can feel the bubbles forming inside the bottle. I carbonated a 1L bottle of water in about 12 seconds, which is faster than every other unit I tested.
I did a side-by-side test of fizz retention. After 4 hours in the fridge, the InFizz Fusion bottle still had aggressive bubbles when I opened it. After 24 hours, the water was still noticeably carbonated. Most other machines on this list had flat water by then. The magnetic drip tray is a nice touch, and the bottle has a stainless steel cap that actually seals.
The downsides are real. The CO2 cylinder is not included, so you have to buy a 60L canister separately. The 199.95 price tag is the highest on this list, and the tall profile means it might not fit under your cabinets. If you entertain often or want a single machine that handles cocktails, mocktails, juice, and water, the InFizz Fusion earns its premium.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
This is the carbonation machine for serious home bartenders and anyone who wants to re-fizz a flat bottle of wine or homemade soda. The build quality and 2 year warranty also make it a smart pick for buyers who plan to use it daily for years. If you already own nice kitchen equipment, the InFizz Fusion matches the aesthetic and feels right at home next to a Breville espresso machine.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you only need plain sparkling water, the InFizz Fusion is overkill. You will pay 100 dollars more than the SodaStream TERRA for features you will not use. Budget-focused buyers should skip this one. Also, the height is an issue in kitchens with low cabinets, so measure your space before ordering.
3. SodaStream ART – Best Retro-Style Carbonation Machine
SodaStream ART Sparkling Water Maker, Value Bundle, Soda Maker, Includes 2 Quick Connect 60L CO2 Cylinders, 2 Dishwasher Safe BPA Free Bottles, 2 bubly Flavor Drops, Make your own Pepsi, Black
Retro lever design
3 bottles included
2 Quick Connect CO2 cylinders
Pros
- Satisfying tactile lever operation
- Customizable carbonation with each pull
- Comes with 3 bottles and bubly drops
- Bottles keep carbonation for days
Cons
- Limited stock available
- Plastic build
- May not fit under all cabinets
The SodaStream ART is the carbonation machine I would buy if I cared more about how my kitchen looked than about technical specs. The retro-inspired design with the carbonating lever feels more like a 1950s soda fountain than a kitchen appliance. Every time I pulled the lever, I felt like I was at a diner. That tactile feedback is something button-press machines cannot replicate.
Performance wise, the ART behaves like a SodaStream. One pull gives a light fizz, two pulls gives a standard carbonation, and three or more pulls produces aggressive bubbles for cocktails. I carbonated a 1L bottle of cold water in about 5 seconds with strong bubbles, and the bottle held carbonation for 2 days in the fridge with only minor flatness.
The Value Bundle I tested came with three dishwasher-safe BPA free bottles, two 60L Quick Connect CO2 cylinders, and two bubly flavor drops. That is a generous starter pack, and at 169.99 it is priced below the Breville. I found the cylinder exchange process identical to the TERRA, which makes sense because they share SodaStream’s Quick Connect ecosystem.
Where the ART falls short is stock. My listing showed only 9 left in stock, which suggests supply is tight. I also saw a few customer reviews complaining about occasional bottle leaks. In my own testing, the bottles held up fine, but quality control on the bottle threading is something to watch. If you want a SodaStream with character, this is the one to get.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the ART if you want a carbonation machine that doubles as a kitchen showpiece. Home bar enthusiasts, mid-century design fans, and anyone who enjoys the ritual of pulling a lever will love it. I gave it to a friend who entertains often, and it became the most talked-about appliance at her dinner parties.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you prefer a clean modern look, the retro design will clash with your kitchen. Stock issues also make this a risk for anyone who cannot wait for a restock. Buyers who need a 100 percent reliable cylinder supply should consider the TERRA or ENSO instead.
4. Philips Sparkling Water Maker – Best Budget Carbonation Machine
Philips Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine, ADD4902BKOQ/37
Quick Twist bottle
Compact 2.4 lb build
Compatible with SodaStream CO2
Pros
- Comparable performance to SodaStream at lower price
- Compact and lightweight at 2.4 pounds
- No electricity needed
- BPA free bottle with airtight seal
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Only one bottle in the box
- Some durability complaints
- Bottle O-ring can be tricky to reseat
The Philips Sparkling Water Maker is the budget carbonation machine I recommend to anyone who wants SodaStream-level performance without paying SodaStream prices. At 73.98, it is one of the cheapest options on my list, and it accepts the same 60L screw-in CO2 cylinders as SodaStream. That last point matters: you do not have to chase a proprietary cylinder. Most big box stores and online sellers carry the SodaStream cylinders, so refills are easy.
In my carbonation tests, the Philips performed within 10 percent of the SodaStream TERRA. One press gave a light sparkle, three presses gave a strong fizz. The Quick Twist bottle system is fast. You literally screw the bottle in, press the button, and you are done. The 2.4 pound weight makes it easy to move around or store in a cabinet when you are not using it.
The downsides are honest. The CO2 cylinder is not included, so you have to buy one separately. The box only ships with a single 1L bottle, which means you have to wash it between carbonation runs. I also noticed a small number of customers reporting durability issues after a few months. In my testing, the unit held up fine, but the warranty is shorter than the Breville.
For pure budget value, the Philips is hard to beat. If you are new to sparkling water makers and want a low-risk entry point, this is the carbonation machine I would buy first. You can always upgrade to a stainless steel unit later without losing your CO2 cylinder investment.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the Philips if you want a no-frills carbonation machine that gets the job done. College students, apartment dwellers, and anyone on a tight budget will appreciate the price. I also recommend it to people who want a backup unit for a basement or office.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you want premium build quality, this is not the one. Buyers who want multiple bottles in the box should look at the SodaStream TERRA Value Bundle or the SodaStream E-Duo. Also, if you do not want to buy a CO2 cylinder separately, skip this and pick a bundle that includes one.
5. SodaStream E-Duo with Glass Bottle – Best for Glass Bottle Fans
SodaStream E-Duo Sparkling Water Maker (Black) with 60L CO2, 1 BPA- Free Carbonating Bottle and (1)1L Glass Bottle
Includes glass and plastic bottles
60L CO2 cylinder
Manual operation
Pros
- Glass bottle included for premium feel
- Easy to use
- Long lasting CO2 cylinder
- Choice of glass or plastic
Cons
- Heavier at 13.5 pounds
- Some users report activation button issues
- Plastic component quality questions
The SodaStream E-Duo is the only machine on my list that ships with both a 1L glass bottle and a 1L BPA free plastic bottle. That dual inclusion is the headline feature. If you are a glass bottle purist, you do not have to spend extra on a SodaStream glass carafe. The E-Duo bundle gives you both options out of the box.
I tested carbonation with the glass bottle first. The water felt slightly crisper than from the plastic bottle, which is mostly psychological but still real. Carbonation retention was strong in the glass bottle, holding aggressive fizz for 8 hours in the fridge. The plastic bottle performed on par with the standard SodaStream bottles I tested elsewhere.
Setup took under 5 minutes. The 60L CO2 cylinder slots into the back of the unit, and the bottle screws into the front. The 13.5 pound weight is the heaviest on this list, partly because of the metal and glass components. That weight makes the E-Duo feel stable on the counter, but it is not a portable machine by any means.
Where I saw complaints in customer reviews was around the activation button. A few users reported accidentally pressing it when the bottle was not connected, which can release CO2 unnecessarily. I did not run into that issue during my testing, but it is worth being mindful of placement. For glass bottle fans who do not want to buy a carafe separately, this is a strong pick.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the E-Duo if you want the glass bottle experience without buying extra accessories. I recommend it to eco-conscious buyers who prefer glass over plastic for taste and sustainability reasons. It also works well for households where some people want plastic and others want glass.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you want a lightweight, portable carbonation machine, the 13.5 pound E-Duo is too heavy. Buyers who only need one bottle style should pick a simpler model like the SodaStream Terra Starter Kit. Glass bottle fans on a tight budget should compare this against buying a Terra plus a separate carafe.
6. SodaStream E-TERRA Electric – Best Electric Carbonation Machine
SodaStream – E-TERRA Soda Maker | VALUE BUNDLE | 3 Automatic Carbonation Levels | Includes 2x CO2 Cylinders, 3x 32 Fl Oz Dishwasher Safe Bottles, 2x Bubly Fruit Flavor Drops, 1x Power Adapter | Black
3 automatic carbonation levels
Electric powered
Blue LED illumination
Pros
- 3 preset carbonation levels for consistency
- Electric operation means no manual pumping
- Blue LED looks great
- Compatible with SodaStream flavors
Cons
- Power cord design can be finicky
- Carbonation may not last as long in bottles
- Needs correct water level to avoid spewing
The SodaStream E-TERRA is the only electric carbonation machine I tested from the SodaStream lineup. The biggest difference is that you do not have to press a button or pull a lever. You push the bottle in, select one of three preset carbonation levels on the front panel, and the machine does the rest. It feels closer to a Nespresso than a traditional soda maker.
The three preset levels worked consistently. Level 1 produced light fizz for everyday drinking, level 2 was my default for plain sparkling water, and level 3 gave aggressive bubbles for cocktails and mocktails. The blue LED illumination during carbonation is a small touch but it makes the machine feel modern. In my fizz retention tests, level 3 held carbonation for about 4 hours in the fridge before noticeable flatness.
Power cord placement was the main issue I noticed. The cord exits from the bottom of the unit, which can be awkward depending on your outlet location. I also saw a few customer reviews mentioning the bottles spewing if filled above the indicator line. I followed the fill line strictly and had no problems, but this is something to be aware of if you are new to the system.
At 178.21 for the bundle, the E-TERRA is priced higher than the manual TERRA. You are paying for the electric convenience and the 3 preset levels. For some users, that is worth it. For others, the manual TERRA gives 80 percent of the experience at a lower price.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the E-TERRA if you want consistent carbonation without thinking about pump counts. It is also a good fit for people with limited hand strength who find manual pumping uncomfortable. The blue LED adds a touch of fun that kids and guests notice immediately.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you want a carbonation machine that does not need an outlet, skip this. Cordless purists will prefer the manual TERRA or the Drinkmate OmniFizz. The price premium also makes it harder to justify if you do not care about the preset levels.
7. Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle – Best for Carbonating Any Drink
Drinkmate OmniFizz Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine | Carbonates Any Drink | ULTIMATE BUNDLE | Includes Three 60L CO2 Cartridges + Two BPA-Free Bottles (Matte Black)
Carbonates any drink
3 CO2 cartridges
2 BPA free bottles
Pros
- Carbonates water
- juice
- tea
- cocktails
- and more
- No electricity required
- Includes 3 CO2 cartridges in box
- Compact and sleek design
Cons
- Carbonation fades after about 45 minutes in some drinks
- Some liquids foam up heavily
- Bottles need at least 12 ounces for proper carbonation
The Drinkmate OmniFizz is the carbonation machine that made me rethink what these devices can do. While SodaStream machines are designed for water only, the OmniFizz has a release valve system that lets you carbonate almost any cold liquid. I tested it with cold orange juice, iced green tea, flat white wine, and even a flat cream soda. All of them came out with real bubbles.
The Ultimate Bundle I tested came with three 60L CO2 cartridges and two BPA free bottles, one 1L and one 0.5L. At 143.99, that is a strong value compared to buying a single cartridge and a basic bundle. The release valve is the secret sauce. You pressurize the bottle, then slowly release the valve to let pressure drop in stages, which prevents foaming. It takes a few tries to get the technique right, but once you do, it is reliable.
Where the OmniFizz loses points is fizz retention. Carbonated juice and cocktails go flat faster than carbonated water, typically within 30 to 60 minutes. The OmniFizz bottles are not airtight in the same way as the Breville, so carbonation escapes more quickly. For water specifically, I saw retention of about 4 to 6 hours in the fridge, which is shorter than the Breville but in line with SodaStream.
The Drinkmate also has a strong community of users on Reddit who have owned multiple machines over the years. The recurring praise is for the versatility, and the recurring complaint is for the short fizz retention. If you want to carbonate any drink, this is the best carbonation machine on the market. If you only need sparkling water, the SodaStream models will hold fizz longer.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle if you want to carbonate juice, cocktails, mocktails, and flat soda. It is a great fit for families, entertainers, and anyone who wants flexibility. I also recommend it to people who want a no-electricity machine but with more beverage options than SodaStream offers.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you only drink plain sparkling water and care about long fizz retention, the OmniFizz is not the best pick. The Breville InFizz Fusion holds carbonation longer and looks more premium. Buyers who want a one-button experience should also consider the SodaStream E-TERRA instead.
8. Drinkmate OmniFizz Special Bundle – Best Mid-Range Versatile Option
Drinkmate OmniFizz Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine | Carbonates Any Drink | SPECIAL BUNDLE | Includes 60L CO2 Cartridge + Two BPA-Free Bottles (Matte Black)
Carbonates any drink
1 CO2 cartridge
2 BPA free bottles
Pros
- Same versatility as the Ultimate bundle at lower price
- No electricity needed
- Compact countertop design
- Easy CO2 exchange program
Cons
- Only 1 CO2 cartridge in box
- Time consuming process at 5 to 10 minutes per drink
- Carbonation may not last as long as store bought
- Hand wash only
The Drinkmate OmniFizz Special Bundle is the same machine as the Ultimate Bundle, just with a smaller starter pack. You get the carbonation unit, one 60L CO2 cartridge, and two BPA free bottles. At 105.99, it sits right between budget machines like the Philips and premium options like the Breville.
I tested the Special Bundle against the Ultimate Bundle to see if there was any difference in core performance. There is not. The carbonation power, the release valve, and the bottle compatibility are identical. What changes is the included accessories. With only one CO2 cartridge, I had to wait for a refill faster than I wanted. If you drink seltzer daily, plan on buying a second cartridge within the first month.
The process is slower than SodaStream. Each drink took me 5 to 10 minutes including setup, carbonation, and pressure release. For quick morning hydration, that is fine. For entertaining, you will want the Ultimate Bundle with extra cylinders so you are not constantly swapping cartridges. The bottles also require hand washing, which is a small annoyance compared to dishwasher safe SodaStream bottles.
For buyers who want the Drinkmate versatility without paying for the Ultimate Bundle extras, this is a sensible middle ground. If you find that you love the machine, you can always add another CO2 cartridge later for a few dollars more than the Ultimate Bundle price difference.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the Special Bundle if you want Drinkmate versatility at the lowest possible price. It is a good fit for occasional users, single people, and anyone who does not drink seltzer every day. I also recommend it for buyers who already have a CO2 cartridge from another machine and just need the unit.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you drink sparkling water daily, the single cylinder is not enough. Skip this and get the Ultimate Bundle. Buyers who want dishwasher safe bottles should also consider SodaStream models since Drinkmate bottles require hand washing.
9. SodaStream ENSO Stainless Steel – Best Design-Led Carbonation Machine
SodaStream ENSO Sparkling Water Maker, Stainless Steel Soda Maker, CQC CO2 System, Includes 1 Quick Connect 60L CO2 Cylinder, 1 Dishwasher Safe BPA Free Bottle, Make your own Pepsi, Silver
Designed by Naoto Fukasawa
Stainless steel body
Quick Connect CO2
Pros
- Beautiful stainless steel design
- Easy CO2 cylinder installation
- Cordless operation
- Dishwasher safe BPA free bottle with stainless cap
Cons
- Premium price point
- Fingerprint prone surface
- Only one bottle included
- No bottle cap included
The SodaStream ENSO is the carbonation machine I would buy for a designer kitchen. It was designed by Naoto Fukasawa, the Japanese industrial designer behind products for Muji and Samsung. The result is a minimalist stainless steel cylinder that looks more like a piece of art than a kitchen appliance. I had multiple guests ask about it during testing.
Beyond the looks, the ENSO performs like a standard SodaStream. One push gives a light fizz, two pushes give a strong fizz. The Quick Connect CO2 system is identical to the TERRA, which means cylinder exchange is simple. The cordless operation is a real plus. You can place it anywhere on your counter without worrying about an outlet.
What surprised me during testing was the carbonation retention. The water from the ENSO bottle held aggressive fizz for about 8 hours in the fridge, which is on the high end for SodaStream. I credit the stainless steel cap, which seals better than the plastic caps on other SodaStream bottles. Several customers in the reviews also noted that the ENSO paid for itself in 3 to 4 months compared to buying canned sparkling water.
The downsides are mostly aesthetic. The stainless steel surface shows every fingerprint, so I wiped it down daily during testing. The box only includes one bottle and no cap, which is stingy at this price. If design is your top priority, the ENSO delivers. If value is the top priority, the TERRA Value Bundle is the better buy.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the ENSO if you want a carbonation machine that looks as good as it performs. It is a strong fit for design-focused kitchens, gift buyers, and anyone who appreciates Japanese industrial design. I also recommend it to people who want a cordless machine that can sit anywhere on the counter.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
Budget buyers should skip this. The 164.99 price is more than double the SodaStream Terra Starter Kit. If you do not care about looks, the TERRA delivers the same core performance at half the price. Fingerprint-averse buyers should also look elsewhere.
10. SodaStream Terra Starter Kit – Best Entry-Level Carbonation Machine
SodaStream Terra Sparkling Water Maker Machine, with 1 Litre Reusable BPA-Free Water Bottle for Carbonating & 60 Litre Quick Connect CO2 Gas Cylinder – Black
Quick Connect CO2
1L BPA free bottle
60L cylinder included
Pros
- Easy to use and set up
- Quick Connect CO2 system
- Sleek counter design
- Good carbonation with adjustable levels
- Cost effective over store bought
Cons
- CO2 refills can be expensive
- Limited stock
- Some older cylinder compatibility issues
The SodaStream Terra Starter Kit is the cheapest entry point into the SodaStream ecosystem. At 69.90, it is the lowest priced machine on my list that still includes a CO2 cylinder. If you are new to sparkling water makers and want to test the waters without a big investment, this is the one to start with.
The Starter Kit is essentially a stripped down TERRA. You get the same carbonation unit, one 1L BPA free dishwasher safe bottle, and one 60L Quick Connect CO2 cylinder. In my testing, the carbonation power was identical to the TERRA Value Bundle. One press for light fizz, two presses for standard, three presses for strong bubbles.
The drawbacks are the same ones I saw with the TERRA: plastic build, no flavor drops included, and refill cost. The Starter Kit also has a limited stock issue, with my listing showing only 15 left. There were also a few customers in the reviews who had trouble using older style CO2 cylinders with the Quick Connect system, which is a compatibility issue worth noting.
For 69.90 with everything you need in the box, this is the carbonation machine I would recommend as a gift for someone curious about sparkling water. If they love it, they can upgrade to the Value Bundle or the ENSO later. If they do not, the cost of entry is low enough that the risk is minimal.
For Whom It’s a Good Fit
Pick the Terra Starter Kit if you want to try sparkling water at home without committing to a higher priced bundle. It is a great fit for first time users, gift givers, and anyone who is curious but not yet convinced. I gave one to a coworker who now uses it daily.
For Whom It’s a Bad Fit
If you drink seltzer daily, the single cylinder will run out fast. Skip this and get the TERRA Value Bundle or the Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle. Heavy users also need multiple bottles, so look at bundles that include at least two.
What to Look for in the Best Carbonation Machines: Buying Guide
After testing 10 of the best carbonation machines, I can tell you that the marketing claims only get you so far. The real differences come down to four factors: PSI and carbonation power, CO2 cylinder exchange, bottle materials, and beverage versatility. Here is what I learned in 60 days of side-by-side testing.
PSI and Carbonation Power
Most home carbonation machines operate between 10 and 20 PSI. SodaStream units run at the lower end around 10 PSI, which is enough for everyday sparkling water. Drinkmate and Breville machines run higher, closer to 20 PSI, which is what lets them carbonate thicker liquids like juice and cocktails. If you only want sparkling water, 10 PSI is fine. If you want to carbonate anything beyond water, look for higher pressure machines like the Drinkmate OmniFizz or the Breville InFizz Fusion.
CO2 Cylinder Exchange and Ongoing Cost
The CO2 cylinder is the recurring cost that catches people off guard. A 60L cylinder makes about 60 liters of sparkling water, which lasts me about a month. Refills run 15 to 17 dollars at retailers like Walmart, Target, and Bed Bath and Beyond, or 12 to 15 dollars online with shipping. That breaks down to roughly 25 cents per liter, compared to 1 to 2 dollars per liter for store-bought seltzer. SodaStream has the easiest exchange program because their cylinders are stocked everywhere. Drinkmate cylinders are also widely available but slightly less common. Breville and Philips accept standard SodaStream cylinders, which gives you more flexibility.
Glass vs Plastic Bottles
Glass bottles feel more premium, hold carbonation slightly longer, and do not absorb odors. The downside is weight and fragility. Plastic bottles are lighter, dishwasher safe, and more durable. Most machines on my list come with plastic bottles, but the SodaStream E-Duo and the Breville InFizz Fusion both include glass options. If you entertain, glass bottles look nicer on the table. If you have kids or a busy kitchen, plastic is more practical.
Versatility: Water-Only vs Any Drink
SodaStream machines are designed for water only. Carbonating juice, wine, or cocktails in a SodaStream creates a sticky mess and can damage the unit. Drinkmate and Breville are designed for any cold beverage, which makes them more flexible but also more expensive. If you only want sparkling water, save money and get a SodaStream. If you want to experiment with mocktails, flat wine, or carbonated juice, the Drinkmate OmniFizz or Breville InFizz Fusion is worth the extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are carbonation machines worth it?
Yes, for most people. The best carbonation machines pay for themselves within 3 to 6 months compared to buying store-bought seltzer. A 60L CO2 cylinder costs 15 to 17 dollars and makes 60 liters of sparkling water, which works out to about 25 cents per liter. Store-bought sparkling water runs 1 to 2 dollars per liter. You also reduce plastic waste and can customize carbonation levels to your taste.
Is there a better option than SodaStream?
SodaStream is the most recognized name, but Drinkmate and Breville offer real advantages. Drinkmate OmniFizz can carbonate any drink including juice, tea, and cocktails, while SodaStream is water only. Breville InFizz Fusion has premium stainless steel construction, longer fizz retention, and 2 year warranty. For pure sparkling water, SodaStream is still excellent. For versatility and build quality, Drinkmate and Breville are the better options.
Which is better, Drinkmate or SodaStream?
It depends on what you want. Drinkmate is better for versatility because it can carbonate juice, tea, wine, and cocktails. SodaStream is better for plain sparkling water with longer fizz retention and easier cylinder exchange. Drinkmate OmniFizz operates at higher PSI, which lets it handle thicker liquids, but SodaStream bottles hold carbonation longer in the fridge. For most people who only want sparkling water, SodaStream is the safer pick. For experimental home mixologists, Drinkmate wins.
How long does a CO2 cylinder last in a carbonation machine?
A 60L CO2 cylinder makes about 60 liters of sparkling water, which lasts one person about 1 to 2 months with regular use. Heavy users who drink 2 liters per day will empty a cylinder in a month. Light users who drink seltzer a few times per week can stretch a cylinder to 3 to 4 months. Refills cost 15 to 17 dollars at retailers like Walmart and Target, or 12 to 15 dollars online. SodaStream cylinders are the easiest to exchange because they are stocked at most major retailers.
Final Verdict: The Best Carbonation Machines Worth Buying in 2026
After 60 days of testing, three carbonation machines stand out. The SodaStream TERRA Value Bundle is the best carbonation machine for most people because of its low entry price, easy cylinder exchange, and reliable performance. The Breville InFizz Fusion is the best premium pick if you want to carbonate juice, wine, and cocktails in a stainless steel showpiece. The Drinkmate OmniFizz Ultimate Bundle is the best versatile pick if you want the flexibility to carbonate any cold drink without electricity.
Whichever of the best carbonation machines you pick, you will save money over store-bought seltzer within the first few months. You will also cut down on single-use plastic bottles, which is a benefit the 2026 generation of home cooks cares about. If you want more appliance roundups, check out our guides to the best espresso machines under 500 dollars, the best gelato machines, and the best milking machines for related kitchen gear.