Quick answer

If you want the most authentic bubly taste with no sweeteners, go with bubly drops. If you prefer a wider flavor range and convenience, the drink mix is a solid alternative.

What sets bubly drops apart

bubly drops are concentrated natural flavor essences that mimic the taste of bubly canned sparkling water. They contain no calories, no sweeteners, and zero sugar, so the flavor is light and clean. Each 40ml bottle (like the Melted Ice Pop) makes about 33 servings, which is great value for regular drinkers.

How drink mix compares

SodaStream drink mixes (like ginger ale or diet cola) are sweetened, either with sugar or artificial sweeteners, and deliver a bolder, more soda-like taste. They come in powder or liquid form and often require less measuring—just a squeeze or scoop per bottle. However, they add calories or sweeteners that bubly fans may want to avoid.

Trade-offs at a glance

The main trade-off is purity vs. convenience. bubly drops give you a crisp, unsweetened profile ideal for those counting calories or avoiding sweeteners. Drink mixes offer more flavor intensity and variety, including traditional soda flavors, but they alter the nutritional profile of your sparkling water.

How to decide: bubly drops vs drink mix

  • Flavor profile: bubly drops provide a light, natural essence; drink mixes deliver a sweeter, more soda-like taste.
  • Calories & sweeteners: bubly drops contain zero calories, sweeteners, or sugar. Most drink mixes include sweeteners (sugar or artificial), adding some calories or aftertaste.
  • Serving size & value: One 40ml bubly drops bottle yields about 33 servings. Drink mix bottles vary, but many yield fewer servings per ounce.
  • Convenience: Drink mixes are often easier to measure—just a squirt or scoop. bubly drops require a half-teaspoon per liter, which is still simple, but less automated. If you carbonate regularly, the half-teaspoon measure becomes second nature after a few uses.

Product facts

  • Sodastream® bubly™ Drops Berry Variety 3pk - 1.36 fl oz: The bubly drops Berry Variety 3pk includes Strawberry Sunset, Cherry, and Blackberry flavors with no calories and no sweeteners. This means you can enjoy a variety of fresh, unsweetened sparkling water flavors at home, just like the canned version.

    Sodastream® bubly™ Drops Berry Variety 3pk - 1.36 fl oz

    Sodastream® bubly™ Drops Berry Variety 3pk - 1.36 fl oz

  • Sodastream bubly drops® Melted Ice Pop Natural Flavor Essence 40ml: The Melted Ice Pop drops combine cherry, lime, and raspberry flavors, and each 40ml bottle makes about 33 cans of flavored sparkling water. This is a long-lasting, cost-effective way to flavor a large volume of sparkling water without adding any sweeteners or calories.

    Sodastream bubly drops® Melted Ice Pop Natural Flavor Essence 40ml

    Sodastream bubly drops® Melted Ice Pop Natural Flavor Essence 40ml

Which option is for you?

Best for

  • People who want unsweetened, authentic bubly flavor
  • Anyone avoiding sweeteners, artificial or natural
  • Those who prefer a light, crisp taste in their sparkling water

Not ideal for

  • If you like sweet, soda-like flavored drinks
  • If you want a wide variety of traditional soda flavors (e.g., cola, ginger ale)
  • If you dislike measuring small amounts each time