If you buy sparkling water regularly, a home carbonator pays for itself in months. The SodaStream Terra and DrinkMate OmniFizz both turn tap water into seltzer in seconds. The difference: DrinkMate can carbonate any liquid.
SodaStream is simple: fill the bottle, press the button, get sparkling water. The CO2 canister makes 60 liters and costs $15 to exchange. The drink mixes add flavor after carbonation — but never before, because SodaStream cannot handle anything but water. Carbonating juice creates a sticky geyser.
DrinkMate uses a patented pressure-release system that handles juice, wine, flat soda, and water with equal ease. The CO2 canisters are the same as SodaStream’s. The machine costs about $90, roughly the same as SodaStream’s mid-range models.
Verdict: for sparkling water only, get whichever is on sale. For the ability to carbonate anything, DrinkMate is the clear winner.