SodaStream dominates the home carbonation market, but it's not your only option. Here are the best alternatives — from premium design to budget-friendly to uniquely versatile.
Top SodaStream Alternatives
- Best Premium: Aarke Carbonator 3 — Stunning design, stainless steel
- Most Versatile: DrinkMate OmniFizz — Carbonates any beverage
- Best Value: Honestly? SodaStream Terra is hard to beat at $89
Why Look for SodaStream Alternatives?
Common reasons people seek alternatives:
- Design: SodaStream machines look functional, not beautiful
- Versatility: SodaStream only carbonates water
- CO2 costs: Proprietary quick-connect cylinders cost more
- Brand preference: Some people just prefer options
1. Aarke Carbonator 3 — Premium Alternative
Aarke Carbonator 3
Swedish-designed stainless steel soda maker. The most beautiful option on the market, with slightly cheaper running costs (screw-in cylinders).
Why Choose Aarke Over SodaStream
- ✓ Dramatically better design
- ✓ Stainless steel construction
- ✓ Standard screw-in cylinders (cheaper refills)
- ✓ Smaller footprint
- ✗ 2.5× the price of SodaStream Terra
- ✗ Screw-in cylinders less convenient
Best for: Design-conscious buyers who want a soda maker that looks as good as it works.
2. DrinkMate OmniFizz — Versatile Alternative
DrinkMate OmniFizz
The only mainstream soda maker that carbonates any cold beverage — juice, wine, cocktails, flat soda, even tea.
Why Choose DrinkMate Over SodaStream
- ✓ Carbonates any beverage, not just water
- ✓ Standard screw-in cylinders
- ✓ Reasonably priced ($20 more than Terra)
- ✓ Great for cocktails and entertaining
- ✗ Extra pressure-release step required
- ✗ Basic plastic design
Best for: Cocktail enthusiasts, party hosts, and anyone who wants to carbonate more than just water.
Full Comparison: SodaStream vs Alternatives
| Feature | SodaStream Terra | Aarke | DrinkMate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $89 | $229 | $109 |
| Design | Functional | Premium | Basic |
| Materials | Plastic | Stainless steel | Plastic |
| Carbonates | Water only | Water only | Any beverage |
| CO2 System | Quick-connect | Screw-in | Screw-in |
| Refill Cost | ~$17-20 | ~$15-17 | ~$15-17 |
| Ease of Use | Easiest | Easy | Extra step |
The Verdict: Is SodaStream Still the Best?
For most people, SodaStream is still the best choice. The Terra offers the best balance of price, convenience, and performance.
But alternatives make sense in specific situations:
- Choose Aarke if design is a priority and you don't mind paying 2.5× more
- Choose DrinkMate if you want to carbonate juice, wine, or cocktails
There's no clear "better" option — it depends entirely on what you value most.
See also: Best Soda Makers 2026 · SodaStream vs Aarke · Buyer's Guide