Our reviewer had the opportunity to test the SodaStream Art and we’re here to spill the beans. If you’re looking to take control of your fizzy water consumption, the SodaStream Art is a game-changer. This innovative machine allows you to carbonate water on-demand, adding flavorings to create your own refreshing sodas. We put it to the test, using up an entire gas canister, and sampling a wide range of flavors. So, is it worth the counter space? Keep reading to find out!
Setup: Mit Leichtigkeit
The Art features a quick-connect system for both the carbonating bottles and the gas cylinder, making setup a breeze. No twisting or aligning necessary. It couldn’t be simpler! While the quick-connect system is relatively new, ensuring you purchase the right bottles and cylinders for replacements is essential. Carbonating the water is a piece of cake. Once the bottle is in place, simply pull down the lever and hold for a few seconds to carbonate. The lever is easy to operate and doesn’t require much strength, making it suitable for everyone.
Performance: Prickelnder Genuss
For optimal performance, it’s recommended to use cold water, preferably refrigerated. However, in a fizzy emergency, cold tap water does the trick. The carbonation level is infinitely adjustable by pulling the lever multiple times or holding it longer for fizzier water. Finding the perfect amount of carbonation may require a little trial and error, as it all depends on personal taste. Even with added flavors, the drinks from the SodaStream Art managed to retain their fizz. Plus, water and flavored drinks stayed carbonated for several days when stored in the fridge in the SodaStream bottles, thanks to the snug cap with a reliable gasket that prevents air from escaping. The only downside? This soda maker can only be used to carbonate plain water, so no carbonating freshly brewed tea or reviving your flat store-bought soda.
Design: Modern und Retro zugleich
The slim shape of the SodaStream Art saves valuable counter space and is lightweight enough to be moved in and out of a cabinet. Its clean lines give it a modern look, while the handle adds a touch of retro charm. Available in four colors (black, white, Mandarin red, and misty blue), it’s a sure bet that the SodaStream Art will complement any kitchen decor. While it’s portable enough to take to the office or a potluck, carrying it in a backpack might not be the most practical option. Carbonating a few bottles and taking those with you makes more sense. When the gas cylinders eventually run out, they can be easily exchanged for freshly filled containers online. And here’s a tip: exchanging multiple bottles at once often comes with cheaper or even free shipping!
Cleaning: Ein Kinderspiel
Since the SodaStream Art is solely used for carbonating plain water, cleaning is a breeze. Simply wipe down the exterior when kitchen mishaps occur, and give the carbonating nozzle a quick clean. The carbonating bottles come in two versions: dishwasher-safe (slightly more expensive) and hand-washable. Opting for the latter means you don’t have to wait for the dishwasher to run before refilling.
Flavors: Nahezu grenzenlos
SodaStream offers an extensive range of flavors that can be added to your fizzed water. They are available for purchase on their website and at various retailers. Bubly Drops, clear and long-lasting, come in small bottles that are easy to store. Bubly Bounce Drops even provide a caffeinated energy boost. For larger bottles of drink mixes, SodaStream offers classic flavors like root beer, cola, ginger ale, and fruit flavors. Additionally, Soda Press bottles offer kombucha, lemonade, and orange options. While the flavors are enjoyable on their own, experimenting and mixing them is a delight. Raspberry ginger ale or lime tonic water, anyone? It’s also possible to unleash your creativity by adding your own syrups, flavors, extracts, and juices, making the flavor possibilities almost endless.
Price: Durchschnittlich
The SodaStream Art falls within the upper-middle price range. While there are cheaper options from unknown brands, as well as pricier alternatives, the SodaStream Art offers fair pricing for its quality. With its few moving parts, this soda maker is built to last.
Competition: SodaStream Art vs. ISI 1-Quart Soda Siphon
If you’re in the mood for a classic, old-school fizz, the ISI 1-Quart Soda Siphon might catch your eye. It exudes a vintage charm and requires no machine—just a canister to hold the water. This siphon uses small cartridges to carbonate one quart at a time, dispensing fizzy water as needed. While it’s cool and retro, it lacks the customization options the SodaStream Art offers. Plus, with the SodaStream Art, you can have multiple bottles of water ready for carbonation in the fridge, instead of waiting for a single ISI canister to cool between uses.
Give your fizzy water game an upgrade with the SodaStream Art. Get creative with flavors, customize your carbonation levels, and enjoy the convenience of a modern yet retro soda maker. Cheers to fizzy drinks on demand!
Sources:
- The Spruce Eats / Donna Currie
