Soda Makers Review SodaStream One Touch Bundle with CO2 and Fruit Drops

Description

A Sleek and Convenient Sparkling Water Solution

I recently had the chance to test the SodaStream One Touch Electric Sparkling Water Maker Bundle (Black) with its nifty CO2 cylinders, BPA-free bottles, and calorie-free fruit drop flavors. As someone who enjoys fizzy drinks but hates the wastefulness of single-use plastic bottles, I was eager to see if this automatic sparkling water maker could become a staple in my kitchen. Spoiler alert: it’s impressive but not without quirks.

Highlights of the Design

The design is, without a doubt, a standout feature of this sparkling water maker. Its sleek black finish and compact build, measuring 6 x 10.83 x 17.32 inches, fit well into my admittedly crowded countertop space without feeling bulky. What I appreciated most, though, was the automatic operation mode. You simply plug it in, insert the CO2 cylinder, snap in the BPA-free bottle, and press a button to select your preferred carbonation level. The snap-lock bottle insertion is a game-changer for clumsy people like me; no awkward twisting or messy spills.

However, I did find the device a bit heavier than I expected. Weighing 12.65 pounds, it’s not something you’d want to move around frequently. But honestly, the weight adds a sense of sturdiness, which to me signals durability.

Key Benefits

This device brings a lot to the table, especially for anyone trying to cut back on store-bought sparkling water.

• Easy Operation: The one-touch system makes it ridiculously easy to carbonate water. Choose between light, medium, or strong fizz levels.
• Eco-Friendly: Using BPA-free bottles and refillable CO2 cylinders significantly reduces single-use plastic waste.
• Versatility: It’s compatible with all SodaStream flavors except for glass carafes, which gives you plenty of options.

Downsides to Consider

While I’m a fan of this product, it’s not without its limitations.

• The CO2 cylinders, while convenient, can be a bit tricky to replace. You’ll have to either order online or visit specialty stores to exchange them.
• Electric dependency: Unlike some manual sparkling water makers, this one requires an outlet. Not ideal if you’re tight on kitchen plugs.
• The fruit drops included in the bundle are a nice touch, but the flavors felt artificial to me. I’d rather stick to fresh lemon or lime.

Performance in Daily Use

In terms of performance, the automatic carbonation levels are incredibly consistent. I tested all three settings, and my personal favorite was the medium fizz—it’s just enough to give the water a pleasant sparkle without overpowering. For a little experiment, I carbonated some cold brew coffee (don’t judge me), and while it was…an acquired taste, the device performed flawlessly.

The 1-liter bottle capacity is perfect for personal use, but if you’re hosting guests, you might find yourself making multiple batches. Also, each CO2 cylinder is capable of carbonating up to 60 liters of water, which is more than enough for a household.

Product Comparisons

When compared to similar sparkling water makers on the market, this model holds its own quite well. For instance, the Aarke Carbonator III is another popular option, but it’s manually operated. While the Aarke has a more premium stainless steel design, it lacks the convenience of the automatic carbonation levels found in the SodaStream One Touch.

On the other hand, products like the Drinkmate Carbonation System offer the flexibility to carbonate other liquids like juice or wine, which the SodaStream doesn’t officially support. However, the SodaStream’s simplicity and reliability make it an excellent choice for straightforward sparkling water enthusiasts.

Smart Spending

From a value for money perspective, this bundle is a solid investment if you’re a frequent sparkling water drinker. While the upfront cost might seem steep, the long-term savings on bottled water and the environmental benefits are undeniable. The fact that it comes with two CO2 cylinders and three BPA-free bottles adds to its appeal, as these extras can be costly when purchased separately.

For anyone on the fence, consider how much you currently spend on bottled sparkling water. If you’re like me and go through multiple bottles a week, this device can pay for itself over time.

Final Thoughts

The SodaStream One Touch Electric Sparkling Water Maker is a practical and stylish addition to any kitchen. It’s perfect for individuals or families looking to enjoy freshly carbonated water at the push of a button while reducing their environmental footprint. While it’s not without its quirks, the ease of use, eco-friendly design, and customizable carbonation levels make it a worthwhile purchase for most households.

If you’re someone who values convenience and sustainability, this sparkling water maker delivers on both fronts, making it a standout choice in its category.

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