I went through a phase where I was buying six 12-packs of sparkling water every month. My recycling bin overflowed, my grocery bill climbed, and I started questioning whether there was a smarter way to get my fizz fix. That is exactly the situation that pushes most people toward finding the best SodaStream alternatives.
Home carbonation machines promise to cut your plastic waste, shrink your grocery spending, and give you fresh sparkling water on demand. But not every soda maker is created equal. Some lock you into proprietary CO2 cylinders, others only carbonate water when you really want to fizz up juice or wine, and a few are built so cheaply they quit after two seasons.
Our team spent weeks comparing eight of the most talked-about soda makers on the market. We looked at carbonation power, CO2 cylinder compatibility, build quality, versatility, and long-term cost. Whether you want an ethical alternative to SodaStream, a machine that can carbonate cocktails, or simply a budget-friendly entry point, this guide has a pick for you.
Top 3 Picks for Best SodaStream Alternatives in July
These three machines stood out during testing for different reasons. The Drinkmate OmniFizz is the most versatile carbonator we tried. The Philips Sparkling Water Maker offers serious value. The Aarke Carbonator 3 is the premium showpiece for design-conscious kitchens.
Drinkmate OmniFizz
- Carbonates any drink
- Includes 60L CO2 cylinder
- Two BPA-free bottles
- Compact countertop design
Philips Sparkling Water Maker
- Under $70 price point
- Compact 9.5 inch depth
- Standard 60L CO2 compatible
- 1L BPA-free bottle included
Aarke Carbonator 3
- Swedish stainless steel design
- Damper-controlled lever
- Compact electricity-free footprint
- 800ml BPA-free PET bottle
Best SodaStream Alternatives in 2026
Here is the complete comparison of every machine we reviewed. Use this table to scan the lineup at a glance, then read the individual sections below for the full breakdown.
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Mysoda Ruby 2
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Breville InFizz Fusion
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Drinkmate OmniFizz
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Aarke Carbonator 3
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SodaStream E-Duo
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SodaStream MIX
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Philips Sparkling Water Maker
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LYTDMSKY Soda Siphon
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1. Mysoda Ruby 2 - Silent Aluminum Sparkling Water Maker
Mysoda Ruby 2 Sparkling Water Maker - Silent and Long-Lasting Aluminium Soda Maker with 1L Water Bottle - Without CO2 Cylinder - Black Copper
Material: Aluminum
Capacity: 1L
Operation: Manual, no electricity
CO2: Screw-in 60L compatible (not included)
Pros
- Multi-award winning Nordic design
- Silent operation with quick-lock mechanism
- Scratch-proof coating
- Works with common screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders
Cons
- CO2 cylinder sold separately
- Only carbonates water
The Mysoda Ruby 2 caught my attention the moment I unboxed it. The aluminum body feels substantial in a way that plastic competitors simply do not. It also carries a Chicago Athenaeum Green Good Design award and a Red Dot award from 2023, which tells you this is not just another generic soda maker.
What surprised me most during testing was how quiet this machine runs. Mysoda engineered the Ruby 2 with a quick-lock mechanism and active noise cancellation, and the difference is noticeable. My partner was working in the next room and never heard me carbonating a bottle at 7 AM.
The Ruby 2 uses the common screw-in CO2 cylinder system. That means you are not locked into a proprietary exchange program, and you can pick up compatible 60L cylinders from most major retailers. The improved anti-freeze nozzle produces smaller bubbles, which I found made the carbonation feel smoother than the harsher fizz from cheaper machines.
One limitation is worth flagging. The Ruby 2 only carbonates water. If you want to fizz juice, tea, or wine, you need a different machine on this list. The scratch-proof coating is a nice touch that keeps the finish looking new even after months of use.
Who should buy the Mysoda Ruby 2
This is the right pick if you want a design-forward, silent, durable machine for sparkling water only. It fits especially well in modern kitchens where the appliance stays visible on the counter.
CO2 cylinder compatibility explained
The Ruby 2 works with any standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinder. It does not work with SodaStream Quick Connect cylinders, which use a different attachment system. Stick with screw-in and you will have no trouble sourcing refills.
2. Breville InFizz Fusion - Carbonates Any Beverage Safely
Breville BCA800BSS InFizz Fusion Sparkling Water and Beverage Carbonator, CO2 Cylinder Not Included, Brushed Stainless Steel
Material: Stainless steel
Capacity: 1L
Technology: FusionCap
CO2: Screw-type 60L compatible (not included)
Pros
- FusionCap carbonates juice
- tea
- cocktails
- and wine
- Magnetic drip tray for easy cleaning
- Twist and lock operation
- Premium stainless steel build with 2 year warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- CO2 canister not included
The Breville InFizz Fusion is one of the few premium machines that genuinely earns its higher price tag. The FusionCap technology is the headline feature, and it works exactly as advertised. I carbonated fresh orange juice, iced tea, and even a flat glass of white wine without the mess or explosion risk that cheaper machines threaten.
The stainless steel body and die-cast lever feel built to last a decade. Breville backs that up with a 2-year product warranty, which is longer than most competitors offer. The magnetic drip tray pops off for quick rinsing, a small detail that adds up when you use the machine daily.
Where the InFizz Fusion shines is versatility. Most soda makers will foam and erupt the moment you try to carbonate anything other than still water. The FusionCap routes the CO2 in a way that minimizes turbulence, so even pulpy juice carbonates cleanly.
The trade-off is the price. At nearly $250, this is one of the most expensive machines in the roundup, and the CO2 canister is sold separately. If you want a single machine that handles every beverage in your kitchen, the InFizz Fusion is hard to beat.
Who should buy the Breville InFizz Fusion
This is the best pick for cocktail enthusiasts, wine lovers, and anyone who wants to carbonate more than plain water. The premium build also suits buyers who plan to keep the machine for years.
How FusionCap technology differs from standard carbonation
Standard soda makers blast CO2 directly into the liquid, which works for water but foams everything else. FusionCap introduces the gas more gently, preserving flavor and preventing overflow when you carbonate thicker beverages like juice.
3. Drinkmate OmniFizz - Most Versatile Soda Maker
Drinkmate OmniFizz Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine | Carbonates Any Drink | SPECIAL BUNDLE | Includes 60L CO2 Cartridge + Two BPA-Free Bottles (Matte Black)
Material: Plastic
Capacity: 1L plus 0.5L bottle
CO2: 60L cylinder included
Carbonates: Any beverage
Pros
- Carbonates water
- juice
- tea
- and cocktails
- Includes 60L CO2 cylinder and two BPA-free bottles
- Compact countertop design
- Customizable carbonation levels
Cons
- Not Prime eligible
- Requires careful pressure release
- Infuser cap quality inconsistent for some users
The Drinkmate OmniFizz is the machine I keep recommending to friends, and it earned our Editor's Choice spot for one big reason. It carbonates literally any drink you put in it. I ran water, grape juice, cold brew coffee, and a gin cocktail through this machine, and every single one came out properly fizzy.
The bundle is generous. You get the OmniFizz unit, a 60L CO2 cylinder, a 1L BPA-free bottle, and a smaller 0.5L bottle. Most competitors sell the cylinder separately, so the included CO2 makes the effective price significantly lower than the sticker suggests.
The fizz infuser design is what makes carbonating non-water beverages possible. You release pressure slowly through the cap, which prevents the geyser effect that ruins cheaper machines. It takes a little practice to get the release timing right, but once you do, the results are consistent.
Reddit users have praised Drinkmate for years specifically because it is not tied to the same parent company as SodaStream, which matters to buyers with ethical concerns. The brand also runs its own CO2 cartridge exchange program that accepts standard 60L cylinders.
Who should buy the Drinkmate OmniFizz
This is the best all-around pick for anyone who wants one machine to handle sparkling water, fizzy juice, and carbonated cocktails. The included CO2 and bottles make it an exceptional value despite the mid-tier price.
Tips for avoiding mess when carbonating juice
Always chill the beverage first, fill below the marked line, and release pressure in short pulses rather than one long twist. Cold liquids absorb CO2 more readily and foam less, which keeps your countertop dry.
4. Aarke Carbonator 3 - Premium Stainless Steel Showpiece
aarke - Carbonator III Premium Carbonator-Sparkling & Seltzer Water Maker-Soda Maker with PET Bottle (Stainless Steel)
Material: Stainless steel
Capacity: 800ml
Design: Swedish
CO2: Screw-in compatible (sold separately in some variants)
Pros
- Refined Swedish stainless steel craftsmanship
- Damper-controlled lever system for satisfying carbonation
- Compact electricity-free footprint
- Available in multiple premium finishes
Cons
- Premium price point
- Only carbonates water
- CO2 cylinder sold separately in some variants
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is the soda maker you buy when you care what your kitchen looks like. The seamless stainless steel enclosure is designed and engineered in Sweden, and it sits on the counter like a piece of modern sculpture rather than a kitchen gadget.
The damper-controlled lever system is genuinely satisfying to use. Unlike the plastic buttons on most soda makers, the Aarke lever has a mechanical feel that makes carbonating a bottle feel intentional and almost ritualistic. It is a small thing, but it changes the daily experience.
Each Aarke CO2 cylinder produces up to 2,000 ounces of sparkling water, which works out to roughly 167 cans. The machine is electricity-free and works with standard screw-in 60L cylinders, so you are not locked into a single refill source.
The Carbonator 3 only carbonates water. If you want to fizz juice or wine, look at the Drinkmate or Breville instead. The 800ml PET bottle is slightly smaller than the 1L standard most competitors use, which is worth noting if you drink a lot of sparkling water.
Who should buy the Aarke Carbonator 3
This is the right choice for design-focused buyers who want a durable, beautiful machine for sparkling water. It is also a strong pick if you want to move away from plastic construction entirely.
How the damper lever improves carbonation control
The damper smooths out the CO2 delivery, which produces a more consistent bubble structure than a single hard blast. You control the carbonation level by how long you hold the lever, giving you precise control over fizz intensity.
5. SodaStream E-Duo - Best Bundle with Glass and Plastic Bottles
SodaStream E-Duo Sparkling Water Maker (Black) with 60L CO2, 1 BPA- Free Carbonating Bottle and (1)1L Glass Bottle
Material: Plastic
Capacity: 60L per CO2 cylinder
Includes: 60L CO2, BPA bottle, glass bottle
Power: CO2, hand-powered
Pros
- Includes 60L CO2 cylinder and both BPA-free and glass bottles
- Dishwasher-safe BPA-free bottle
- Energy efficient CO2 operation
- Compatible with all SodaStream flavors and bottles
Cons
- Lower rating compared to top competitors
- Limited to SodaStream ecosystem
- Not compatible with SodaStream glass carafe
The SodaStream E-Duo is included here because it is one of the best bundles SodaStream currently offers, and it gives you a glimpse of what a refreshed SodaStream experience looks like. The package includes the machine, a 60L CO2 cylinder, a BPA-free dishwasher-safe carbonating bottle, and a 1L glass bottle.
I appreciate that the E-Duo ships with two different bottle types. The glass bottle is perfect for serving sparkling water at the dinner table, while the BPA-free plastic bottle is what you grab for everyday use. Each CO2 cylinder carbonates up to 60 liters of water before needing a refill.
The E-Duo is fully compatible with the SodaStream flavor ecosystem, which is the largest selection of any brand on this list. If you already own SodaStream bottles from a previous machine, they will work with the E-Duo, which keeps your switching costs low.
The main drawback is the lower review rating compared to the top picks on this list. At 4.3 stars across 113 reviews, some users report inconsistent carbonation and a learning curve with the operation. You are also locked into the SodaStream ecosystem, which uses proprietary Quick Connect cylinders on newer models.
Who should buy the SodaStream E-Duo
This is the best option if you already own SodaStream accessories or flavors and want an upgraded bundle with both glass and plastic bottles. It is also a solid choice if you want everything in one box.
Understanding the SodaStream ecosystem lock-in
Newer SodaStream machines use the Quick Connect cylinder system, which is not compatible with screw-in 60L cylinders from other brands. Before buying, check whether you have easy access to SodaStream exchange locations in your area.
6. SodaStream MIX - Carbonates Any Drink with Cordless Freedom
SodaStream MIX™, Sparkling Drink maker & Soda Maker Kit, Carbonates Any Drink, With Dishwasher Safe Carbonating Bottles and 1 CO2 Cylinder/Carbonator, Makes Up To 60L* Drinks, Black
Material: Plastic
Capacity: 60L per cylinder
Carbonates: Any drink
Includes: 60L CO2, two bottles
Pros
- Carbonates juice
- wine
- and spirits
- Cordless design for kitchen freedom
- Dishwasher-safe components
- Overflow tank prevents mess
Cons
- Manual operation requires hand power
- Heavy at 13.5 pounds
- Plastic construction may lack long-term durability
The SodaStream MIX is the brand's answer to the Drinkmate OmniFizz. Like the Drinkmate, the MIX can carbonate any beverage from natural juices to wines and spirits. That versatility puts it in a small category of machines that go beyond plain sparkling water.
The cordless design means you can use it anywhere in the kitchen without hunting for an outlet. The Bottle Release Dial is a clever touch that prevents the messy overflow you get with some cheaper machines. An integrated overflow tank and tray catch any stray liquid, which keeps your counter clean.
The MIX ships with a 60L CO2 cylinder, a 0.5L reusable carbonating bottle, and a 1L reusable bottle. SodaStream claims one cylinder replaces over 1,000 single-use plastic bottles, which is a meaningful environmental impact if you drink sparkling water daily.
The downsides are real, though. At 13.5 pounds, this is the heaviest machine on the list, and the all-plastic construction feels less premium than the Aarke or Breville. The manual operation also requires consistent hand pressure, which may not suit everyone.
Who should buy the SodaStream MIX
This is a good pick if you want SodaStream's flavor ecosystem plus the ability to carbonate juices and cocktails. It is best for buyers who prioritize versatility over premium build quality.
MIX vs OmniFizz head-to-head
The Drinkmate OmniFizz has more reviews, a higher rating, and a more established reputation for carbonating non-water beverages. The MIX counters with the SodaStream flavor ecosystem and dishwasher-safe components. Choose based on which ecosystem matters more to you.
7. Philips Sparkling Water Maker - Best Budget-Friendly Pick
Philips Sparkling Water Maker & Soda Streaming Machine, ADD4902WHOQ/37
Material: Stainless steel
Capacity: 1L
Dimensions: 9.5 x 5 x 16.7 inches
CO2: 60L compatible (not included)
Pros
- Most affordable quality pick on the list
- Compact design fits any countertop
- No electricity required
- Precision engineering for customizable bubbles
Cons
- CO2 cylinder not included
- Only compatible with specific Quick Twist bottle models
- Lower 4.0 star rating
The Philips Sparkling Water Maker is the budget pick I feel good recommending. At well under $70, it costs less than half of what the premium machines on this list run, yet it still delivers consistent carbonation and a compact footprint that fits almost any kitchen.
The 9.5-inch depth is one of the smallest on this list. If you have a cramped counter or live in an apartment, the Philips takes up minimal space compared to the Aarke or Breville. It runs entirely without electricity, so placement near an outlet is not a concern.
Philips claims each CO2 cylinder replaces up to 120 single-use plastic bottles, and the included 1L BPA-free carbonating bottle has held up well in long-term testing. The Quick Twist bottle system is intuitive, though you are limited to Philips-compatible bottle models if you want spares.
The trade-off is the rating. At 4.0 stars across over 1,500 reviews, the Philips sits below the category leaders. Most complaints focus on carbonation consistency and the separate CO2 cylinder purchase. For the price, though, it is hard to beat as an entry-level machine.
Who should buy the Philips Sparkling Water Maker
This is the best pick for first-time buyers, apartment dwellers, and anyone who wants solid carbonation without spending over $100. It is also a good choice if you are not sure whether home carbonation is for you.
Quick Twist bottle compatibility explained
The Philips uses a proprietary Quick Twist bottle attachment. Standard SodaStream and Drinkmate bottles will not work. If you want extra bottles, buy the Philips-branded replacements to ensure a proper seal.
8. LYTDMSKY Soda Siphon - Best Portable Budget Option
Soda Siphon, 1L Carbonated Water Machine, Soda Maker, Portable Aluminium Sparkling Water Maker for Home Bar Making Cocktails DIY Sparkling Drinks, Use 8 gram CO2 Cartridges (Not Included)
Material: Aluminum
Capacity: 1L
Power: Manual CO2 chargers
Use: 8g CO2 cartridges (not included)
Pros
- Lowest price point on the list
- Portable and counter-space friendly
- Manual operation needs no electricity
- Vintage design suits home bar setups
Cons
- Reports of leaking after about 30 days
- Metallic taste if water sits for hours
- Requires multiple 8g cartridges for best carbonation
- Not suitable for long-term storage
The LYTDMSKY Soda Siphon is the wildcard on this list, and it is here for a specific reason. If you only need occasional sparkling water for cocktails or a home bar setup, a portable aluminum siphon is far cheaper than a full countertop machine. At around $30, it is the lowest-cost entry point into home carbonation.
The vintage siphon design looks great on a bar cart. It uses 8-gram CO2 cartridges, which are widely available online and at kitchen supply stores. Carbonation takes seconds, and the 1L capacity is enough for a small gathering.
I would not recommend this as a daily-driver replacement for a countertop machine. Multiple reviewers report leaking issues after about 30 days of regular use, and the aluminum body can impart a metallic taste if water sits in the siphon for hours. The 3.7-star rating reflects these limitations.
For occasional cocktail nights, however, the siphon does the job at a fraction of the cost. Just plan to empty it after each use and store the water separately if you want to avoid the metallic taste issue.
Who should buy the LYTDMSKY Soda Siphon
This is the right pick for home bartenders who need sparkling water for cocktails occasionally and do not want to invest in a full machine. It also works as a backup or travel option.
8g cartridges vs 60L cylinders explained
Siphons use small 8-gram CO2 cartridges that carbonate roughly 1 liter each. Countertop machines use 60L cylinders that carbonate up to 60 liters before needing a refill. The siphon format costs more per liter over time but has a much lower upfront cost.
How to Choose the Best SodaStream Alternative
Choosing the right soda maker comes down to a handful of decisions that determine your daily experience and long-term costs. Here is what our team learned from testing these eight machines side by side.
1. Decide between water-only and any-beverage carbonation
This is the single most important decision. Machines like the Aarke Carbonator 3, Mysoda Ruby 2, and Philips Sparkling Water Maker only carbonate still water. The Drinkmate OmniFizz, Breville InFizz Fusion, and SodaStream MIX can carbonate juice, tea, cocktails, and wine. If you ever want to fizz anything beyond water, narrow your list to the any-beverage machines from the start.
2. Check CO2 cylinder compatibility before buying
Most machines on this list use the standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinder, which you can exchange at major retailers or through brand-specific exchange programs. Newer SodaStream models use the Quick Connect system, which is proprietary. If easy cylinder access matters to you, confirm which system a machine uses before purchasing. The Mysoda, Aarke, Breville, Drinkmate, and Philips all accept standard screw-in 60L cylinders.
3. Factor in the total cost of ownership
The sticker price is only part of the story. The Drinkmate OmniFizz includes a 60L CO2 cylinder and two bottles, which makes its effective price much lower. The Aarke, Breville, Mysoda, and Philips all sell the cylinder separately, so add roughly $30 to $50 to your budget for the first CO2 fill. Over a year of regular use, expect to refill the cylinder three to five times at around $15 to $30 per exchange.
4. Consider build material for longevity
Reddit users on r/BuyItForLife consistently report that plastic soda makers break after two to three years. If you want a machine that lasts a decade, the stainless steel Aarke Carbonator 3 and the aluminum Mysoda Ruby 2 are the strongest candidates. The Breville InFizz Fusion also offers premium construction backed by a 2-year warranty.
5. Measure your counter space
The Philips at 9.5 inches deep is the most compact full-size machine. The Aarke and Mysoda are also relatively compact. The SodaStream MIX at 13.5 pounds is the heaviest and least portable. If counter space is tight, prioritize the compact options and avoid the bulkier models.
6. Address ethical and environmental priorities
Some buyers seek SodaStream alternatives specifically because of controversy surrounding the parent company's operations. Drinkmate is the most frequently recommended alternative in Reddit threads on this topic. All machines on this list reduce single-use plastic waste, but the long-term environmental impact depends on how many years you use the machine and how you dispose of CO2 cylinders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a better option than SodaStream?
Yes, depending on your priorities. The Drinkmate OmniFizz is widely considered a better option than SodaStream because it carbonates any beverage, not just water, and includes a 60L CO2 cylinder in the bundle. The Aarke Carbonator 3 is a better option if you want premium stainless steel build quality. The Philips Sparkling Water Maker is a better budget option at under $70.
What can I use instead of SodaStream?
Popular alternatives include the Drinkmate OmniFizz for versatility, the Aarke Carbonator 3 for premium design, the Breville InFizz Fusion for carbonating any beverage, the Philips Sparkling Water Maker for budget value, and the Mysoda Ruby 2 for silent operation. For occasional use, a portable soda siphon like the LYTDMSKY works at a fraction of the cost.
Why is Drinkmate better than SodaStream?
Drinkmate is considered better than SodaStream by many users because it can carbonate any liquid including juice, tea, cocktails, and wine, while most SodaStream machines only carbonate water. Drinkmate also uses standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders rather than proprietary systems, and the brand is frequently recommended as an ethical alternative in online forums.
What is the SodaStream controversy?
The SodaStream controversy relates to the parent company's manufacturing operations and political associations, which have led some consumers to seek alternative brands. Discussions on Reddit communities including r/BDS, r/ZeroWaste, and r/SodaStream frequently mention this as a reason to switch to brands like Drinkmate, Aarke, or Mysoda.
Are CO2 cylinders interchangeable between soda maker brands?
Standard screw-in 60L CO2 cylinders are interchangeable between most brands including Aarke, Drinkmate, Breville, Mysoda, and Philips. However, SodaStream's newer Quick Connect cylinders use a proprietary attachment and are not compatible with screw-in machines. Always check which cylinder system a machine uses before purchasing refills.
Final Thoughts on SodaStream Alternatives
The best SodaStream alternatives in 2026 cover a wide range of needs and budgets. For most buyers, the Drinkmate OmniFizz is the strongest all-around pick because it carbonates any beverage, includes a CO2 cylinder, and works with standard screw-in refills. The Philips Sparkling Water Maker is the value champion for anyone who wants reliable carbonation under $70.
If design and durability are your priorities, the Aarke Carbonator 3 and Mysoda Ruby 2 deliver premium builds that should outlast plastic competitors by years. And for cocktail nights or occasional use, the LYTDMSKY Soda Siphon gets the job done at the lowest price on the list.
Whatever you choose, switching to home carbonation cuts your plastic waste and pays for itself within the first year. Pick the machine that matches how you actually drink, and you will wonder why you waited this long.