On this page:
How we choose what we test
As with most of our product testing, our aim is to test the most popular brands and models on the market and what you're most likely to see in stores. SodaStream is one of the largest beverage companies in the world so we test a number of models from its range. We also look at other brands including Breville, Arke and Twenty39.
After surveying the market, we put together a final list that goes to our buyers. They then head out to the retailers and purchase each product, just as a normal consumer would. We do this so we can be sure these products are the same as any consumer would find them and not 'tweaked' in any way for better performance.
How we test soda makers
We assess performance, ease of use and record the total amount of carbonated water that can be made using one canister of CO2. We also calculate the cost per litre so you can find a soda maker that suits your budget.
Performance
Our testers assess whether the machines can achieve a low, medium and high level of carbonation using either the automatic or manual settings (depending on the type of soda maker).
They also measures how consistent the carbonation is for a total of 10 bottles by measuring how much CO2 has been added.
Ease of use
To determine how easy the soda maker is to use, Adrian looks at:
- ease of installing and removing the CO2 cylinder – this should be simple and quick
- ease of installing and removing bottle – this should be easy without the chance of water spilling
- ease of controls – these should be simple and allow the user to control the amount of sparkling water
- ease of using the supplied bottle and lid – can it lay down in the fridge? Can the lid be secured tightly?
- water spillage – is there water spillage while carbonating?
- ease of cleaning the soda maker – does it collect fingerprints? Is it easy to wipe over?
- cylinder replacement program – is this practical and easy to do?
CHOICE Expert Rating
The CHOICE Expert Rating is our overall score and consists of ease of use (80%) and performance (20%). We recommend soda makers with a CHOICE Expert Rating of of 80% or above.
Ease of use is made up of ease of installing/removing CO2 cylinder (20%), ease of installing/removing the drinking bottle (20%), ease of controls (20%), water spillage (20%), ease of cleaning (10%), assessment of the bottle shape and lid quality (5%), and the quality of the CO2 canister return/replacement program (5%).
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For more than 60 years, we've been making a difference for Australian consumers. In that time, we've never taken ads or sponsorship.
Instead we're funded by members who value expert reviews and independent product testing.
With no self-interest behind our advice, you don't just buy smarter, you get the answers that you need.
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Stock images: Getty, unless otherwise stated.
