SodaStream makes several different models, and the differences aren't always obvious. This guide breaks down every current SodaStream so you can pick the right one.
Quick Answer
- Best for most people: SodaStream Terra ($89) — best value, quick-connect CO2
- Want nicer design: SodaStream Art ($130) — metal body, lever
- Want glass bottles: SodaStream Duo ($170) — only glass option
- Lowest budget: SodaStream Spirit ($50-70) — older model, screw-in CO2
Contents
Full Comparison Table
| Model | Price | CO2 System | Body | Bottles | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terra ⭐ | $89 / €89 / £80 | Quick-connect | Plastic | Plastic only | Most people |
| Art | $130 / €130 / £120 | Quick-connect | Metal | Plastic only | Style upgrade |
| Duo | $170 / €170 / £150 | Quick-connect | Metal | Glass + Plastic | Glass bottles |
| Spirit | $50-70 / €50-70 / £49 | Screw-in | Plastic | Plastic only | Budget buyers |
SodaStream Terra — Best Overall
SodaStream Terra
The Terra is our top pick for most buyers. It uses the newer quick-connect CO2 system (pink cap cylinders) that makes swapping cylinders effortless.
Key Features
- Quick-connect CO2: Push to insert, click when locked — no threading
- Dishwasher-safe bottles: 1L BPA-free included
- Compact design: Smallest footprint of current models
- Button operation: Simple push to carbonate
Who It's For
Anyone who wants a reliable, affordable soda maker without bells and whistles. The Terra does one thing — make sparkling water — and does it well.
SodaStream Art — Style Upgrade
SodaStream Art
The Art adds a metal body and retro lever mechanism to the Terra's quick-connect system. Same performance, nicer looks.
Key Features
- Metal body: More premium feel than Terra
- Lever mechanism: Tactile, satisfying operation
- Quick-connect CO2: Same easy system as Terra
- Retro-modern design: Looks good on the counter
Who It's For
Buyers who want something nicer-looking than the Terra but don't need glass bottles. The $40 premium buys aesthetics, not performance.
SodaStream Duo — Glass Bottles
SodaStream Duo
The only SodaStream that works with glass carafes. If you want to avoid plastic entirely, this is your only option.
Key Features
- Glass carafe included: Elegant 1L glass bottle
- Dual compatibility: Works with glass OR plastic bottles
- Metal body: Premium construction
- Quick-connect CO2: Easy cylinder changes
Who It's For
Buyers who dislike plastic or want elegant presentation for dinner parties. The glass carafe looks restaurant-quality.
SodaStream Spirit — Budget Option
SodaStream Spirit
The Spirit is an older model with screw-in CO2 cylinders. Cheaper upfront and cheaper to refill, but less convenient to use.
Key Features
- Screw-in CO2: Blue cap cylinders — cheaper refills
- Lower price: Cheapest current SodaStream
- Basic design: Functional, not fancy
- Limited availability: Being phased out in some markets
Who It's For
Budget-conscious buyers who don't mind screw-in cylinders and want the lowest possible cost per liter.
Quick-Connect vs Screw-In CO2
This is the biggest difference between newer and older SodaStream models:
Quick-Connect (Pink Cap)
Used by: Terra, Art, Duo
- Push to insert, click when locked
- 5-second cylinder swaps
- Exchange: ~$17-20
- More convenient
Screw-In (Blue Cap)
Used by: Spirit, Source, Aarke
- Thread onto machine
- 30-second cylinder swaps
- Exchange: ~$15-17
- More widely available
Our take: Quick-connect is worth the slightly higher refill cost. Changing cylinders on screw-in models is annoying enough that some people dread it. Quick-connect eliminates that friction entirely.
Which SodaStream Should You Buy?
Decision Tree
- Do you want glass bottles? → SodaStream Duo (only option)
- Is design/aesthetics important? → SodaStream Art
- Want lowest upfront cost? → SodaStream Spirit
- Everything else? → SodaStream Terra ⭐
For most people, the SodaStream Terra is the right choice. It offers the best balance of price, convenience, and reliability. The quick-connect system alone is worth choosing it over older models.
If you're considering spending more than Terra but less than Aarke, think carefully about whether the Art's design upgrade is worth $40 to you. For many people, the answer is "not really" — in which case, save the money or go all the way to the Aarke for truly premium design.