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The short answer: If you want to carbonate plain water and maybe add flavor after, a soda maker (like SodaStream) is your best bet. If you want to carbonate any beverage directly, including juices or cocktails, a carbonator (like a Drinkmate) is more versatile. But there are other factors like cost, ease of use, and counter space. Read on to see which fits your lifestyle.
Soda makers and carbonators both infuse liquid with CO2 to make fizzy drinks. The main difference lies in what you can carbonate and how you do it.
Soda makers typically carbonate water only. You fill a bottle with cold water, screw it onto the machine, press a button to inject CO2, then mix in your flavor syrup afterward. They are designed to prevent clogging and over-foaming by separating the carbonation step from the flavoring step.
Carbonators (like the Drinkmate) allow you to carbonate almost any liquid directly. You can fizz up juice, iced tea, wine, or even cocktails right in the bottle. This is possible because they use a special bottle and a pressure release system that minimizes foaming when carbonating non-water liquids.
So, if you’re happy with plain sparkling water and adding drops or syrups, a soda maker is simple and effective. If you crave fizzy orange juice or sparkling margaritas, a carbonator is more flexible.
Both types use CO2 canisters that need to be replaced or refilled. The machines themselves have different price points, and you should factor in the cost of flavorings if you go the soda maker route.
Upfront cost: Soda makers range from budget-friendly manual models to premium electric ones. Carbonators are usually in the mid-range. You can find good deals during sales, and our best soda makers guide highlights value picks for both.
CO2 refills: Most machines use 60L or 130L canisters. Exchanging a canister costs a modest amount, depending on size and brand. Some brands offer a subscription service that includes free shipping, which can save you money if you fizz daily.
Flavorings: Soda makers often require syrups or drops (like SodaStream flavors). These are inexpensive per bottle and last for about 10-12 liters of soda. Carbonators don’t need flavorings if you are carbonating juices or other drinks, but you might still buy flavors to create a soda-like drink. Over time, if you drink a lot of flavored soda, the cost can add up, but it’s still cheaper than store-bought.
Soda makers are notoriously easy: fill, screw, press, flavor. Most have a button that you press a few times to reach your desired fizz level. Cleaning is simple because the bottle and cap are dishwasher safe (check your model).
Carbonators are also easy but require a bit more care. Because you carbonate non-water liquids, they tend to foam more. You need to fill the bottle to the designated line, and after carbonating, you should give it a quick swirl to mix in the CO2. The bottle is also dishwasher safe, but you may need to rinse it more often if you use sticky juices.
In terms of counter space, both are about the same size. Some soda makers have a sleek, modern design that fits under cabinets; carbonators are often a bit bulkier. If space is tight, look for a compact model.
This is where the decision often tips. Soda makers: you can make sparkling water, and then add flavors to create sodas, but you can’t fizz up your orange juice. Carbonators: you can fizz anything, from lemonade to iced coffee (though coffee might foam a lot, so go slow).
Here’s a quick breakdown:
If you’re into making custom fizzy drinks for parties or are on a low-sugar diet and want to fizz up your favorite sugar-free drink, a carbonator is the way to go.
Both machines are built to last, but there are a few maintenance points. Soda makers have a plastic or metal straw that pierces the CO2 canister; over time, it may wear out and need replacement. Carbonators have a similar valve, and you must ensure you don’t carbonate thick liquids like smoothies, which could clog the nozzle.
Cleaning the bottle is straightforward for both, but if you use a carbonator with sugary drinks, be diligent about rinsing to prevent sticky residue and mold.
CO2 canisters are disposable or refillable. Many brands offer exchange programs where you swap your empty canister for a full one at a store or via mail. This is convenient and ensures you always have fresh CO2. Check if your local store offers this service before buying.
Decide based on your drinking habits:
For a detailed comparison of top models, check out our best soda makers buying guide. It includes both soda makers and carbonators, with pros and cons for each.
No. Soda makers are designed for water only. Carbonating juice or other liquids can cause over-foaming and may damage the machine. If you want to fizz other drinks, choose a carbonator.
No, they are brand-specific. SodaStream uses a particular thread, while Drinkmate uses a different one. Always buy the correct canister for your machine. However, some third-party canisters work with multiple brands, but it’s safer to use the manufacturer’s.
Yes. The cost per liter of homemade sparkling water is a fraction of store-bought prices. You’ll break even on the machine cost within a few months if you drink a liter a day.
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