Is the Aarke Carbonator 3 the Best Sparkling Water Maker? (Honest Review)
Tired of plastic soda makers that clog, rattle, or break after a year? We were, too. So we tested the Aarke Carbonator 3. We want to find a premium alternative that works fine.
But $200+ for fizzy water? That’s where hesitation kicks in. We bought the Aarke Carbonator 3 to see if it’s all form and no fizz.
In this review, we’ll break down performance, design, quirks, and who should skip it. Read on before you hit ‘add to cart.
What Makes the Aarke Carbonator 3 Stand Out?
The Aarke Carbonator 3 isn’t just another soda maker with a metal body. It combines long-term usability with sharp, Scandinavian design—and that makes a difference in everyday use.
Here’s a closer look at how it’s built differently from the standard sparkling water machines you may have tried.
Built with Stainless Steel, Not Plastic
Most soda makers are made of plastic, which can crack, fade, or feel cheap. The Aarke Carbonator 3 uses stainless steel across its entire body.
It’s sturdy, rust-resistant, and holds up well under daily use. You won’t need to baby it or worry about how it looks after a year.
No Plug. No Cord. No Counter Clutter.
This machine works without electricity. You don’t need an outlet or batteries. It uses a CO₂ cylinder. That means less kitchen clutter, no tangled cords, and full flexibility to use it anywhere, even outside or during a power outage.
Takes Up Less Space Than You Think
At just under 6 inches wide, the Carbonator 3 is one of the slimmest soda makers on the market.
It fits in tight kitchen spaces, apartments, or office counters without demanding rearrangement. You can leave it out without it feeling in the way.
Designed for Low-Waste Living
If you’re trying to cut back on disposable bottles or canned drinks, this helps. It comes with a reusable BPA-free PET bottle and works with any standard CO₂ cylinder.
Over time, you’ll avoid hundreds of single-use bottles and reduce recycling runs.
Clean, Even Carbonation Every Time
The carbonation nozzle is metal, not plastic, which helps reduce clogging and improve gas flow. You get consistent bubbles every time, without the uneven pressure or overflows that happen in cheaper models.
Comes Ready to Use (Mostly)
In the box, you get:
- The stainless steel Carbonator 3 unit
- A BPA-free PET bottle
- A metal drip tray cover
- A cleaning cloth
Note: CO₂ cylinder isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy one separately before using the device.
How Easy Is It to Use the Aarke Carbonator 3 Day-to-Day?
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is built for simplicity…but how does that hold up in daily life? Whether you’re making one glass or hosting friends, here’s how it performs when used regularly, from setup to cleanup.
Quick Setup with Zero Tech Involved
There are no cords, buttons, or screens—just a manual lever. Setup takes under 5 minutes once you insert a CO₂ cylinder. Operation is simple and repeatable, even if it’s your first time using a sparkling water maker.
- No electricity or batteries needed
- Just fill the PET bottle with cold water, screw it into the unit, and press the lever
- Uses standard 60L CO₂ cylinders (same as SodaStream and similar brands)
- No learning curve or complicated parts to figure out
Easy to Clean and Maintain
This isn’t an appliance that adds to your weekly chore list. Most of the time, a quick wipe is all it takes to keep it looking good and working correctly.
- Wipe the stainless steel body with a soft cloth and mild detergent
- Drip tray cover catches small spills and can be rinsed quickly
- Bottle and nozzle aren’t dishwasher safe…handwashing is recommended
- No hidden corners or electronics to worry about
Works Well for Solo Use or Small Households
The included PET bottle holds 800ml…just under a liter…enough for two full glasses or small batches throughout the day. That makes it ideal for solo users, couples, or families who want fizzy water without waste.
- Each CO₂ tank lasts around 60 bottles
- No performance drop with repeated use
- Great for one or two people drinking sparkling water daily
- Can handle a few guests, but isn’t built for party-level output
Loving Aarke Carbonator?
Aarke Carbonator 3 Design: Built for Kitchens That Care About Looks
This isn’t just a soda maker…it’s a countertop statement. The Aarke Carbonator 3 blends visual elegance with functional design, making it a good fit for kitchens where both style and space matter.
Solid Stainless Steel That Feels Premium
Unlike plastic-bodied alternatives, the Carbonator 3 uses a full stainless steel shell. It feels heavy in the right way…like something built to last, not just look good.
There’s no wobble, no cheap parts, and every lever press feels deliberate.
Multiple Finishes to Match Your Setup
The Carbonator 3 comes in a range of finishes that don’t scream “appliance.”
You can choose from matte black, sand beige, polished steel, copper, or even rose gold…each one designed to blend with modern or minimalist kitchens.
Slim Profile for Tight Counters
Space-saving is one of its strongest points. With its tall, narrow frame, it fits easily next to your blender, coffee maker, or knife block…without taking over your workspace.
Even if your kitchen is short on counter depth, this design doesn’t get in the way.
It Starts Conversations
Visitors often ask about it. The unique lever design, clean lines, and overall finish make it look more like a Scandinavian art piece than a drink appliance.
It’s the kind of kitchen tool you don’t mind leaving out on display.
Aarke vs SodaStream: Is It Worth the Upgrade?
If you’re torn between the Aarke Carbonator 3 and a standard SodaStream model like the Fizzi or Terra, it comes down to priorities.
Do you want a sleek, long-lasting appliance that elevates your kitchen? Or are you just looking for the most affordable way to make fizzy water at home?
Below is a side-by-side breakdown to help you compare.
| Feature | Aarke Carbonator 3 | SodaStream Fizzi / Terra |
| Design | Premium stainless steel | Plastic/ABS plastic body |
| Power Source | Manual (no electricity) | Some models require electricity |
| Bottle Material | BPA-free PET (800ml) | Plastic or glass (varies) |
| CO₂ Compatibility | Compatible with SodaStream tanks | Proprietary tanks |
| Customization | Single carbonation pressure | Some models offer multiple levels |
| Sustainability | High (no power + fewer parts) | Moderate |
Who Should Buy the Aarke Carbonator 3?
This isn’t the cheapest sparkling water maker on the market…but it’s not trying to be.
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is for people who want function, form, and sustainability in one product. If that sounds like you, it’s likely a great fit.
- You Want an Appliance That Looks as Good as It Works
If you care about kitchen aesthetics, this machine earns its counter space. Its sleek, metal design complements modern interiors without clashing with your other high-end appliances.
- You Drink Sparkling Water Daily
Whether you’re cutting soda or just love fizzy water, this carbonator makes it easy to enjoy fresh sparkling water at home…without the waste or grocery trips.
- You’re Trying to Cut Down on Plastic Waste
Each refillable CO₂ tank can save dozens of single-use bottles. Pair that with the included PET bottle, and you get a more sustainable setup over time.
- You Have a Home Coffee or Cocktail Bar
The Aarke looks right at home next to a pour-over setup or cocktail tools. Its design doesn’t disrupt the vibe…it elevates it.
- You Prefer a Minimalist or Modern Kitchen
If clutter and plastic appliances aren’t your style, this carbonator fits right in. It’s slim, cordless, and blends in without drawing too much attention.
Are you the right fit?
What You Might Not Like About the Aarke Carbonator 3
While the Aarke Carbonator 3 stands out for its design and build, it’s not perfect for everyone.
A few design trade-offs might matter depending on how you plan to use it day to day.
- No Adjustable Fizz Levels
You get one carbonation level—controlled by how long you press the lever. If you’re picky about extra-bubbly or lightly-sparkled drinks, this could feel limiting.
- Doesn’t Support Glass Bottles
Unlike some SodaStream models, the Aarke only works with its BPA-free PET bottle. If you prefer glass for taste or environmental reasons, this is a notable drawback.
- Manual Operation Isn’t for Everyone
There’s no button, no automation. You press the lever manually to carbonate—great for simplicity, but not ideal if you want a push-and-go experience.
- Bottle Must Be Washed by Hand
The PET bottle isn’t dishwasher safe. You’ll need to rinse and clean it manually with mild detergent, which could be a hassle for frequent users.
- Costs More Than Entry-Level Models
At its price point, the Aarke is a premium product. If you just want basic carbonation on a tight budget, this might feel like overkill.
Final Take: Built for People Who Care About the Details
Tired of plastic machines that break or look outdated within months? The Aarke Carbonator 3 solves that. No electricity and screen. Just a well-built, metal appliance that does its one job beautifully…carbonating your water with style.
It feels intentional and worth keeping on your counter.
If you’re done settling for “good enough,” step up to the Aarke Carbonator 3. Buy it once and use it daily.
You Might Have These Questions About Aarke Carbonator 3
No, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is a manual sparkling water machine. It requires no power or batteries, making it a plug-free kitchen appliance ideal for counters without outlets.
The Aarke Carbonator 3 works with standard 60L CO₂ canisters, including those from SodaStream and other universal brands, so you don’t need proprietary tanks to keep it running.
No, the included PET bottle is not dishwasher safe. To preserve its shape and longevity, it’s best to handwash with warm water and mild soap after each use.
No, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is not compatible with glass bottles. It’s explicitly designed for PET bottles and select stainless steel ones for safe carbonation.
One standard 60L CO₂ tank can carbonate about 60 full 800ml bottles of sparkling water, depending on your fizz preference and usage frequency.
