CO2 is the ongoing cost of owning a soda maker. Understanding your options can save you significant money over time — or cost you extra if you don't know what's compatible with your machine.
This guide covers cylinder types, compatibility, refill strategies, and how to minimize your cost per liter.
Quick Compatibility Reference
| Machine | Cylinder Type | Cap Color |
|---|---|---|
| SodaStream Terra, E-Terra | Quick-connect | Pink/Coral |
| SodaStream Duo, Art | Quick-connect | Pink/Coral |
| SodaStream Spirit, Source (older) | Screw-in | Blue |
| Aarke Carbonator 3, Pro | Screw-in | Blue |
| DrinkMate | Screw-in | Blue (universal 60L) |
⚠️ Important
Quick-connect (pink cap) and screw-in (blue cap) cylinders are NOT interchangeable. Check your machine before buying.
Cylinder Types Explained
Quick-Connect (Pink/Coral Cap)
SodaStream's newer system introduced with the Terra. You push the cylinder until it clicks — no screwing.
- Pros: Dead simple to install, no cross-threading possible
- Cons: Slightly more expensive refills, fewer third-party options
- Exchange price: $17-20
- Machines: Terra, E-Terra, Duo, Art
Screw-In (Blue Cap)
The original SodaStream standard, also used by Aarke and compatible with most third-party machines.
- Pros: Cheaper refills, more third-party options, adapter compatibility
- Cons: Can cross-thread if not careful
- Exchange price: $15-17
- Machines: Spirit, Source, Fizzi, Aarke, DrinkMate
Cost Per Liter Breakdown
Each 60L cylinder (both types hold the same amount of CO2) carbonates approximately 60 liters of water at medium fizz. Here's what that costs:
| Option | Cost | Per Liter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-connect exchange | $18 | $0.30 |
| Screw-in exchange | $15 | $0.25 |
| SodaMod refill adapter | $5-8/refill | $0.08-0.13 |
| Paintball tank adapter | ~$3/refill | $0.05 |
| For comparison: Bottled sparkling water | $1.50/liter | $1.50 |
Even at standard exchange prices, you're saving 80%+ versus buying bottles. But there are ways to cut costs further.
Refill Options Beyond Exchange
1. Third-Party Exchange Programs
Companies like SodaStream themselves offer exchanges at major retailers. Just bring your empty, swap for a full one, pay the exchange fee.
Where to exchange:
- Walmart
- Target
- Bed Bath & Beyond
- Major supermarkets
- Amazon (mail-in exchange)
2. Local Refill Services
Some welding/gas supply shops and specialty stores refill soda maker cylinders for $5-10. Call ahead — not all do it, and some require you own the cylinder outright (not a rental/exchange cylinder).
3. Paintball/CO2 Tank Adapters
For serious users, adapters let you connect your soda maker to larger CO2 tanks (paintball-sized 20oz or even 5-20lb restaurant tanks).
Large Tank Adapter Setup
- Upfront cost: $30-50 for adapter + $50-80 for tank
- Refill cost: $3-5 for 20oz, $15-25 for 5lb tank
- Per liter: ~$0.05
- Best for: High-volume users, RVers, offices
You'll need counter space for the tank and a refill source (sporting goods stores, welding supply, or homebrew shops).
Search Adapters on Amazon →How Long Does a Cylinder Last?
Depends entirely on how much you carbonate:
| Usage | Liters/Week | Cylinder Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Light (1 person, occasional) | 3-5 | 3-4 months |
| Moderate (couple, daily) | 7-10 | 6-8 weeks |
| Heavy (family, multiple daily) | 15-20 | 3-4 weeks |
| Very heavy (office/party) | 30+ | 1-2 weeks |
💡 Extend Cylinder Life
Use cold water. Cold water absorbs CO2 more efficiently — you'll get the same fizz with fewer pumps. Refrigerate your water before carbonating.
Buying New vs Exchange
When you first buy a soda maker, it typically includes one CO2 cylinder. After that, you have two options:
Exchange (Recommended)
Bring your empty cylinder to a retailer, swap it for a full one, pay ~$15-18. This is the cheapest and easiest option for most people.
Buy New
A brand new cylinder (not exchange) costs $30-40. You'd only do this if you want to keep multiple cylinders on hand without waiting for exchanges.
Our advice: Exchange is almost always better. Buy one extra cylinder so you always have a backup, then exchange as needed.
Our Recommended Cylinders
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use third-party cylinders in my SodaStream?
Yes, as long as they're the same type (quick-connect or screw-in). The cylinder is just a pressurized CO2 container — nothing brand-specific about the gas itself.
What happens if I use the wrong cylinder type?
It won't fit. Quick-connect and screw-in have different connections. You won't damage anything — it just won't attach.
Can I refill cylinders myself?
Technically possible but not recommended. CO2 under pressure is dangerous if mishandled. Use a refill service or adapter to a proper tank instead.
Do cylinders expire?
The CO2 doesn't expire, but cylinders have a certification date. Most exchange programs accept any cylinder regardless of age and recertify them. If you own outright, recertification is required every ~5 years for safety.
Quick-connect vs screw-in — which is better?
Quick-connect is more convenient. Screw-in is slightly cheaper and has more third-party options. Neither affects carbonation quality. Choose based on your machine.
See also: Where to Get CO2 Refills · Is a Soda Maker Worth It?