IF the idea of turning any drink into a sparkling, bubbly creation fills you with immense satisfaction, then you've come to the right place with our Aarke Carbonator review.
At-home carbonators might be the luxury you didn't know you needed, but from the digestive benefits of sparkling water to helping you cut down on plastic bottles – there are plenty of reasons to invest in one.
Aarke's Carbonator looks undeniably sleek and stylish, making it an indispensable tool for crafting your fizzy beverages at home.
I put it to the test in this review to determine whether it's worth the hype – and the spend.
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- Looks sleek in your kitchen
- Posh lever creates a controlled release of pressure
- Precision nozzle produces a smooth spray
- Made with durable stainless steel
- Can buy tasty Aarke essence drops for it
Cons
- Only compatible with water
- More expensive than other carbonators
- Have to buy CO2 cylinder separately
Aarke Carbonator review: quick summary
When my Aarke carbonator arrived, I was immediately obsessed with the smart packaging that read 'Welcome to your sparkling new lifestyle' in golden lettering, tied together with a black ribbon – talk about swanky presentation.
Before even trying it out, the stylish stainless steel appearance of Aarke's carbonator is enough to have you instantly display it in your kitchen, especially as it comes with a bottle with a cap and end that matches it. 10/10 for looks.
Unfortunately, when it first arrived, I hadn't ordered a CO2 cylinder, so I had to wait a few days for that to come to actually start using it.
Once I had my CO2, I followed the trusty User Guide with its straightforward instructions on inserting the cylinder and attaching the water bottle once filled. Then my favourite part commenced: pulling the lever.
Compared to other carbonators, Aarke gives you a really smooth carbonating experience and it's so clear when it's time to release the lever. Plus when you remove the bottle, there's no mess or explosions.
You can even decide how fizzy you want your water, with help from the booklet: you simply conserve gas and release the lever halfway multiple times, rather than all in one go.
I also tried out Aarke's different sugar-free essence dropsof Elderflower and Lime, Wild Strawberry and Citrus Twist, which just require one drop in your water after carbonating. They all tasted refreshing but not sweet – more of a healthy fizzy drink alternative.
If you find yourself going through loads of plastic bottles due to a fizzy water obsession, then it's definitely time to invest in an Aarke carbonator to be more sustainable. And even if you only go sparkling on occasion, this will definitely add some pizzazz to your kitchen.
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How do you use the Aarke Carbonator?
Aarke provides a User Guide with your product which has everything you need to know about getting started or replacing any elements of your carbonator.
To get started, you unscrew the plastic seal from your cylinder, insert it into the hole at the bottom of the carbonator and twist. Once it's tightly in place, then you can get ready to carbonate.
Fill your bottle up to the max line (or below) then simply screw the bottle into the socket and get ready for the best bit: pulling the lever to make your water fizzy.
After you hear the deflating-type noise, you're ready to remove your water and enjoy it without any splash explosions. Et voilà.
There's even a lid for your bottle, so you can keep it fresh in the fridge for later.
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Aarke Carbonator, £150.18
Is Aarke better than Sodastream?
When you think of a carbonator, Sodastream might be first on your mind as it stirs nostalgia from its heyday in the 70s and 80s – and since relaunching in 2009, has gained popularity again as an old-school favourite.
However, Aarke adds smart elegance to the carbonating world like no other. They both have the same functions, yet Aarke just looks a bit nicer on display and offers a really smooth experience.
I can't actually state whether Sodastream is better than Aarke as I have yet to try it – although they can both only carbonate water, so take with that what you will.
What CO2 canisters are compatible with Aarke?
Aarke is compatible with standard 60mm CO2 canisters from all major brands; from Drinkmate to Sodastream.
Since I tried mine, Aarke has launched its own Cylinder Refill Service where you can start with two cylinders for £60, and then it's just £16 per refill cylinder.
You can also order your CO2 canisters from the below:
- SodaStream 60 Litre Spare Gas Cylinder for Sparkling Water Maker, £22.99 from Amazon - buy here
- Twin Pack 2 X CO2 YOU (Screw in) 60 Litre Spare Gas Cylinders, £36.99 from Amazon - buy here
- SodaStream 60 Litre Gas Cylinder, £25 from Argos - buy here
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Where can I buy the Aarke Carbonator in the UK?
If you're keen to make sparkling water and other fizzy beverages at home then good news: the Aarke Carbonator is readily available from several retailers and stockists.
I put it to the test in my review above and was left impressed, while shoppers have praised the design for being 'beautiful and functional'.
It comes in a range of finishes and hues, from classic steel to cobalt blue – all of which can be purchased from the Aarke website.
Of course, it can pay to shop around in case of any deals or sales, so here are some other places you can buy yours from:
- Selfridges
- Amazon
- Currys
- Lakeland
Is there an alternative to the Aarke Carbonator?
There are several alternatives to the Aarke Carbonator, all offering similar functionality and style. In our Drinkmate carbonator review, our tester rated the Drinkmate for its portability, noting that it 'comes with a CO2 gas canister, so unlike other designs on the market, you can use it as soon as it arrives.'
Another popular option is the SodaStream E-TERRA electric Sparkling Water Maker, which is the brand's 'most advanced, one-touch electric model.'
Another alternative is the Philips Water ADD4902BK/10 GoZero Sparkling Water Maker which boasts a sleek design and requires no electricity or cables to operate, for ease of use.
