The best sparkling water makers from SodaStream to SMEG, tested for refreshing bubbles

Telegraph

12 hours ago

Whether you're cutting down on bottled water or mixing up bar-worthy spritzes at home, a soda maker can be a savvy, sustainable investment. These compact machines use a CO2 cylinder to carbonate tap or filtered water (and, in some cases, juice, wine or cocktails) in seconds. Prices range from £80 to over £150, with entry-level options from ProCook and SodaStream and more premium models by Aarke, SMEG and Sage.
When choosing a carbonator, consider how easily the CO2 can be replaced (either exchanging the empty cylinder in-store, or via a more streamlined home delivery service), whether the bottles are dishwasher-safe and how much counter space it needs. Newer models can be stylish, but fiddlier to use, while others prioritise simplicity (via silent levers and one-touch presets) over aesthetics.
Each soda maker has been thoroughly tested and we regularly update this guide to keep pace with new arrivals and pricing changes.
The best sparkling water makers: At a glance
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How to choose the best sparkling water makers
There's more to choosing a soda maker than meets the eye. The first consideration is carbonation strength: some machines offer adjustable fizz levels (necessary if your household prefers different degrees of sparkle) while others use a single, manual pump. If you like full control or stronger bubbles, look for models with multiple pressure presets or lever systems.
Next, it's worth noting the bottle type. Most makers use BPA-free plastic, which is lightweight and durable, while premium models offer dishwasher-safe glass bottles that deserve to be seen on the dining table when hosting.
CO2 compatibility is another factor. Some brands, like SodaStream, require specific cylinders, while others work with standard threaded options that are often cheaper and easier to refill. Be sure to check which type your machine supports before buying.
Finally, think about footprint and design. Sure, some machines look good on your countertop, but form shouldn't come at the expense of function; some of the best performers are also the simplest to use.
How we test sparkling water makers
I tested 10 soda makers, but only the seven sparkliest performers made it into this guide. Each machine was scored against the following criteria:
Design: I assessed how each fits into a typical kitchen: is it compact enough and sturdy for withstanding regular use? Visual appeal was also considered as these appliances tend to live on the counter.
Ease of use: From setup to daily operation, I tested the intuitiveness of each model, including attaching bottles, inserting CO2 cartridges and using the controls.
Carbonation and taste: Following the manufacturer's guidelines, I compared each drink to shop-bought sparkling water. I also tested the same bottle 24 hours later to see if it retained fizz.
Quality and value: Build quality, durability and overall materials were carefully considered, noting the cost of refills and how long each cylinder actually lasts.
Additional features: Extras such as the ability to carbonate other liquids (like juice or wine), included accessories such as reusable bottles, or the option to add syrups were all factored into final scores.
All soda makers are retained for long-term testing, allowing us to spot-check carbonation performance, cylinder lifespan and build quality over time.
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The Best Sparkling Water Makers of 2025
1. Best Buy Soda Maker: Sage The InFizz Fusion
Unlike most models, which are strictly for water, the InFizz can add bubbles to juices, cocktails and iced teas with ease. Yes, it's larger than most rivals, but there's a reassuring weight to the brushed stainless steel design and it feels every inch a premium appliance.
Performance-wise, it's faultless. The ergonomic lever gives you full carbonation control (a couple of short presses for light bubbles, or a longer hold for the bold effervescence you'd expect from bottled brands like Acqua Panna or Perrier). Thanks to the cap design, it lasts, too; sparkling water I made on a Monday still had a pleasant bite when I revisited it on the following Wednesday. Mixed drinks were a hit and it quickly tackled batch after batch of sparkling peach sangria without splutters or spills.
The included one-litre bottle is solid, fashionable and great for serving and thirstier households can purchase extras separately to ensure they never run dry. With an RRP of £179.95, it's undeniably an investment, but if you're looking to experiment with beverages beyond sparkling water, the Sage InFizz Fusion is in a league of its own.
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2. Best Value Soda Maker: ProCook Sparkling Water Maker
ProCook's Sparkling Water Maker punches well above its price tag. At under £100 with two one-litre bottles included, it'll work hard in your kitchen and quickly save the pennies on pre-bottled fizzy water.
Design-wise, we'll admit it's no showstopper. The plastic body is fairly utilitarian, but it is light and compact enough to stash in a cupboard if space is tight. Plus, it uses standard screw-in CO2 cylinders, so you're not tied into a costly brand.
Though there's no lever or dial to customise to your preferences, it couldn't be simpler to use; just a few firm presses of the top button delivered an impressive level of fizz, which held up well after 48 hours. The included bottles lock in easily and the added value of a second means never running out of bubbles – good if you're mixing up pitchers for summer picnics.
If you're all about aesthetics, this won't be for you. But as an entry-level pick that does the basics well, the ProCook is tough to top.
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Key specifications
3. Best Designed Soda Maker: SMEG Soda Maker
SMEG's entry into the home carbonation market strikes the same blend of style and simplicity that made its kettles, coffee machines and toasters cult kitchen favourites.
Design-wise, it's unmistakably SMEG: sculptural, rounded edges and a soft matte finish available in minimalist shades including black, emerald green and storm blue. But beyond the looks, it's refreshingly easy to use – no electricity, no screen, no learning curve. Carbonation is controlled via a satisfying metal dial; two twists gave a lightly sparkling water, four gave a sharp, nose-tingling fizz akin to San Pellegrino.
During testing, the results were crisp and consistent. I followed the recommended fill and fizz times and got well-carbonated water with good bubble retention after 24 hours. The included 800ml Tritan bottle felt robust and clicked in with minimal effort.
It uses standard screw-thread CO2 cylinders and swapping one out took less than a minute. The only let downs? At this price, I'd have liked a second bottle and while it looks premium, the plastic build doesn't quite match the brushed metal finish of the Aarke or Sage models. Still, if you want a simple soda maker that complements a curated kitchen, the SMEG SKC01 is as handsome as it is handy.
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4. Best Luxury Soda Maker: Aarke Carbonator 3
If soda makers were judged on looks alone, the Aarke Carbonator 3 would win hands down. So much so that it had been unboxed just four short hours before it gained as many compliments from curious house guests. But rest assured, it's more than just a pretty face.
The stainless-steel construction looks undeniably high-end (and wouldn't be out of place in a home bar). It also has a surprisingly compact footprint – good if you're short on countertop space, or looking to lean into Marie Kondo minimalism.
It works with standard CO2 canisters and includes a custom BPA-free bottle that slots in easily. There's no adjustable fizz dial (you control the carbonation level by how long you press the lever), but I found it intuitive, consistent and satisfyingly smooth to operate.
In taste tests, the bubbles were crisp and long-lasting; even after 48 hours, there was a noticeable sparkle. This isn't the most feature-packed machine on the market (there are no glass bottles and it cannot carbonate other liquids), but for those who value elegant design and solid build quality, it's an investment piece that will stand the test of time.
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5. Best SodaStream Soda Marker: SodaStream Art
What sets the SodaStream Art apart is the side lever, which gives you tactile control over carbonation. Short pull for light bubbles, longer for something punchier – it's a game-changer for those who know exactly how they like they're soda (and, in my opinion, a lot more fun than repeatedly pressing a button).
The slim retro body looks striking on the counter; however, its height is worth noting, as it didn't quite fit under my kitchen units. Be sure to measure before you buy if this is a dealbreaker for you. Like the Terra (below), the Art uses SodaStream's Quick‑Connect CO2 system, which clicks easily into place and saves fiddling with screw threads. You don't get a glass bottle at this price, which feels like a missed opportunity; though the included plastic one is robust, it lacks the premium feel and presentation of glass.
All in all, the Art strikes a good balance of design, performance and fizz customisation. If you like a bit of theatre with your bubbles, this is the SodaStream to go for.
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6. Best Eco-friendly Sparkling Water Maker: Mysoda Glassy Sparkling Water Maker
This Finnish-born brand boasts impressive sustainability credentials – and, refreshingly, its latest release outperformed many bigger brands on test. Built from renewable wood composite in a matte finish, the Glassy made a welcome change from clunkier plastic models, scoring serious style points with its automated sliding door opening and range of colourways.
After weeks of loud hissing and fizzing, I particularly appreciated its near-silent carbonation system. It works with readily available screw-in CO2 cylinders and the included bottles are a real plus: they feel sturdy, look smart and hold fizz well.
You don't get a lever or fizz dial (carbonation is handled by short button presses), but the resulting bubbles are clean, consistent and lasted 48 hours without fading. It's slightly slower to fizz than SodaStream or Aarke models, but not frustratingly so. If you want a greener appliance that performs, the Mysoda Glassy is a quiet overachiever.
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7. Best Entry-level SodaStream: SodaStream Terra
If you're looking for a straightforward, affordable way to cut back on bottled water, the SodaStream Terra delivers. I tested it over four weeks and found it simple to set up, with a no-fuss Quick‑Connect cylinder that slots neatly into place. It carbonates well, delivering solid fizz that holds up over 24 hours and the lightweight frame makes it easy to whisk from cupboard to countertop.
Functionally, it's solid. Simply press the top button in short bursts to get reliably fizzy water every time. But there's no way to customise the fizz level and it lacks the satisfying feel of other lever or rotary systems. It only supports plastic bottles, which may put off those who prefer glass. That said, the bottles are BPA-free and feel sturdy in use. Still, at under £110 (and often on offer), it's a solid starter option for fizz fans.
Key specifications
Soda Maker FAQs
How long does a CO2 cartridge last?
Standard cartridges last for around 60 litres of water, roughly four to eight weeks for an average household. Heavier use (or higher fizz settings) will use gas faster.
Is making sparkling water at home cheaper than buying bottled water?
Yes, especially over time. Once you've bought the machine, the cost per litre drops to as little as 15 to 25p, compared to 50 to 80p for bottled water. Plus, there's less plastic waste.
Can I use any brand of CO2 cylinder with my sparkling water maker?
Not always. Some machines (like SodaStream) use proprietary cartridges, while others accept standard screw-thread cylinders. Check your model's compatibility before switching.
Are glass bottles better than plastic ones for sparkling water makers?
Glass bottles are more eco-friendly and dishwasher-safe, but heavier and not offered by all brands. Plastic bottles are lighter and safer to store, but may need replacing more often.
Can I carbonate drinks other than water?
Only with certain models like the Sage InFizz. Most soda makers are designed for water only and carbonating other liquids can void the warranty or damage the machine.