Quick answer
Choose the Aarke Carbonator Pro if you want a premium stainless steel machine with a dishwasher-safe glass bottle and one-handed operation. Pick the SodaStream Aqua Fizz if you prefer a lower upfront cost and are comfortable with PET plastic bottles. The Carbonator Pro delivers a more refined experience and durable build; the Aqua Fizz is a solid entry-level option.
glass bottle
Design and build quality
The Aarke Carbonator Pro features a stainless steel enclosure with a matte black finish, designed to last on your countertop for years. Its glass bottle is dishwasher safe, making daily cleaning simple. The SodaStream Aqua Fizz uses a plastic housing and PET bottles, which are lighter but less premium. If you value a machine that doubles as a kitchen accent and can withstand heavy use, the Carbonator Pro’s all-metal build is a clear advantage.
Carbonation control and ease of use
The Carbonator Pro uses a Push-to-Lock™ mechanism that lets you carbonate with one hand, and you can adjust fizz levels by holding the button longer. The Aqua Fizz relies on a manual button press with less feedback, so achieving consistent carbonation may take a few tries. For home bartenders or frequent users who want precise control, the Pro’s system is more satisfying. Casual users may not notice the difference.
Included accessories and starter kits
The Aarke Carbonator Pro Matte Black Starter Kit comes with a gas cylinder filled with 100% renewable food-grade CO2 produced in the EU, so you can start sparkling immediately. The SodaStream Aqua Fizz typically includes a CO2 cylinder as well, but the refill exchange network is more widely available. If you value renewable sourcing and European production, the Carbonator Pro’s included cylinder is a plus.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Build material: Carbonator Pro uses stainless steel and glass; Aqua Fizz uses plastic and PET. Choose Pro for durability and aesthetics; choose Aqua Fizz for lower weight and cost.
- Bottle care: Carbonator Pro’s glass bottle is dishwasher safe; Aqua Fizz PET bottles require hand washing. Pro wins on convenience; Aqua Fizz wins on shatter resistance.
- Carbonation control: Pro offers one-handed Push-to-Lock™ with variable fizz; Aqua Fizz uses a standard button. Pro gives more control; Aqua Fizz is simpler for occasional use.
- Starter kit contents: Carbonator Pro includes a CO2 cylinder with renewable EU-sourced gas; Aqua Fizz includes a cylinder but sourcing varies. Pro offers a more eco-conscious start; Aqua Fizz relies on local exchange networks.
Product facts at a glance
- Carbonator Pro Matte Black Starter Kit: Carbonator Pro Matte Black is a unique sparkling water maker in stainless steel, featuring a sturdy, dishwasher safe glass bottle. The Carbonator Pro incorporates a simple one-handed operation with our innovative Push-to-Lock™ feature for a great carbonation experience. Includes 1 gas cylinder filled with 100% renewable high-quality food-grade CO2 gas, produced in the European Union. The glass bottle is dishwasher safe, so you can clean it without scrubbing, and the one-handed operation makes carbonating quick and intuitive.
- PET Water Bottle 2-pack: Made of high-quality PET, our Water Bottle is specifically engineered for safe use with our Carbonator I, II and 3 sparkling water makers. We only use food-grade, virgin PET. This means that our bottles are non-toxic, BPA-free and do not contain any harmful chemicals. PET bottles are lightweight and shatterproof, but they are not dishwasher safe and may need replacement over time. The Carbonator Pro’s glass bottle avoids this trade-off.
Which one should you choose?
Best for
- Home bartenders and design-conscious users who want a premium countertop appliance
- People who prefer dishwasher-safe glass bottles and one-handed operation
Not ideal for
- Budget-focused buyers who want the lowest entry price
- Users who need shatterproof bottles for a household with young children
