Highest Rated Soda Makers | ||
|---|---|---|
 | Aarke Carbonator II | 4.8/5 |
 | KitchenAid SodaStream Sparkling Beverage Maker | 4.4/5 |
 | SodaStream Crystal | 4.4/5 |
 | SodaStream Source | 4.4/5 |
 | DrinkMate Carbonated Soda Maker | 4/5 |
The SodaStream Crystal is similar to the original device that allows you to make soda right at home instead of buying bottles of soda that sometimes go to waste. The Crystal version is a bit smaller than the original, which makes it easier to keep on a counter because it doesn’t take up as much space. The angle of the bottle underneath the machine can sometimes make it difficult to get the bottle out so that you can pour soda into a glass.
The SodaStream Crystal is a modern looking soda maker that uses glass carafes instead of the plastic carbonating bottles that most SodaStream machines use. The Soda Maker Club recommends this soda machine to user who want a sturdy, good quality appliance that will last them a long time.
Features:
- Bottle Lock Mechanism: Inserting the glass carafe into the bottom part of the soda maker
- Size: 6.25″W x 17.2″H x 10.5″D.
- Refill Method: SodaStream Carbonators (60L or 130L)
- Construction: Metal and plastic
- Warranty: 2 year limited warranty
What’s Included
Comes with the soda maker, a 60L carbonator and a one liter glass carafe.
How To Use
The SodaStream Crystal is simple to use but isn’t the most efficient soda maker out there since you need to raise and lower its head each time.
- Fill the glass carafe with water.
- Unlock the soda maker, raise the head and insert the glass carafe into the bottom part.
- Lower the head onto the glass carafe and lock it again.
- Press on the button on top for 3 loud buzzes or until the desired level of carbonation is attained.
- Unlock the soda maker, raise the head and take out the glass carafe.
Refills
The SodaStream Crystal uses 60L SodaStream carbonators that, as their name implies, allow for carbonation of roughly 60L of water (most users do however report around the 50L range). Empty carbonators can be exchanged for full ones at various retailers such as select Bed Bath & Beyond, Costco, Target, etc. To find a retailer close to you.. Every exchange costs $14.99 but there are cheaper, DIY options.
Our Review
The SodaStream Crystal mainly differentiates itself through its use of glass carafes instead of plastic carbonating bottles. Also, it has very good build quality, even for its price. On top of that, it benefits from a uniquely modern design that will look good in most kitchens.
While the bottle is in place, the SodaStream automatically locks so that it doesn’t move around while the soda is filling the bottle. There is also a cup that the bottle sits in that keeps it from moving around while the soda is dispensing. This is a benefit even though it’s hard to remove the bottle after it’s full. A trendy option is that the machine uses glass bottles. This gives the machine a bit of a classic feel to it when making soda instead of using a lot of plastic bottles that are just thrown away. The glass bottles can easily be washed and reused again, which is something that’s enjoyable for a larger family. A downside of the SodaStream Crystal is that it is a little more expensive. Part of this is because it does use glass bottles. There are also smaller CO2 canisters used with this machine. You have to change the soda more often compared to the larger machines, which can be an issue if you drink a lot of soda or other beverages that you can make with the machine.
There are no batteries or electrical cords with the machine. All you have to do is install the CO2 canister and the bottle of soda that you want to make before pushing a button to make your beverage. This is a new version of the original SodaStream, so there are a few things that could be changed. Overall, it’s a good machine to have on a countertop. With all of the metal that the machine is made of as well as the glass, it offers an elegant and sophisticated look for the kitchen, something that the original device didn’t deliver. You can use as much or as little of the soda when you’re using the machine depending on whether you’re making a bottle for multiple people or just for yourself. You can also make sparkling water with the SodaStream Crystal.
What Others are Saying
Users enjoyed the high build quality of the SodaStream Crystal and found it easier to use than the SodaStream Penguin. A few people had issues with certain components not working but found the customer service to be helpful. They also enjoyed the fact that it uses a glass carafe instead of a plastic bottle and like the design and look of the SodaStream Crystal.