It’s probably the Austrian in me that naturally draws me to sparkling water—there’s just something so refreshing about those bubbles! But as much as I love it, I’ve started to feel guilty about all the plastic bottles piling up, knowing the impact they have on our planet. Glass-bottled sparkling water is a nice alternative, but it can be quite pricey. So, I recently decided it was time to invest in a sparkling water maker. After browsing through the options on Amazon, I found myself drawn to the Aarke Carbonator 3. Its sleek design would look perfect in our kitchen, and with so many glowing reviews, I decided it was worth spending a bit more for something that’s both stylish and functional.
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is a beautifully crafted, stainless steel soda maker that not only elevates your kitchen’s aesthetics but also makes the whole carbonation process a breeze. It’s designed for simplicity and durability, making it ideal for anyone who loves sparkling water and wants to reduce their environmental footprint. With its minimalist design and easy-to-use lever, the Carbonator 3 delivers a premium carbonation experience that’s quick, quiet, and perfectly customizable. If you’re on the hunt for a soda maker that blends elegance with efficiency, the Aarke Carbonator 3 could be just what you’re looking for!
Disclosure: Before we continue, this review is not sponsored by Aarke, all opinions in this review are my own and the Aarke Carbonator 3 was bought with my own money. Since I researched a lot before buying the carbonator 3, I decided to write a review that will really help anyone interested in buying this machine. Note that I do use affiliate links on my blog, these help me get a little revenue to help keep this blog up and running as blogging is a Hobby and not my full-time job 🙂
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What are Sparkling Water Makers?
Sparkling water makers are handy kitchen devices that allow you to carbonate your water at home, turning plain tap or filtered water into fizzy, sparkling water in just a few seconds. These machines work by injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) gas into the water, creating those refreshing bubbles that many people love. They’re popular not only because they let you enjoy sparkling water on demand but also because they can help reduce the need for store-bought bottled water, which is better for the environment. The CO2 bottles used in sparkling water makers can be refilled further reducing wastage and helping the environment.
About Aarke
The Company
Aarke is a Swedish design company founded in 2013 with a mission to bring beauty and function to everyday household products. The name “Aarke” comes from the Southern Sami word for “everyday,” reflecting the company’s philosophy of creating high-quality, aesthetically pleasing products that elevate daily experiences. Aarke is best known for its premium sparkling water makers, which combine sleek, minimalist design with durable materials like stainless steel. The founders, Jonas Groth and Carl Ljungh, aimed to reimagine the soda maker, traditionally seen as a purely functional appliance, into a stylish, long-lasting piece of kitchen equipment. With a focus on sustainability, Aarke products are designed to reduce single-use plastics by encouraging users to make their own sparkling water at home. Today, Aarke is celebrated globally for its innovative approach to household products, blending Scandinavian design principles with everyday practicality.
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Carbonator 3
The Carbonator 3 is the latest iteration in Aarke’s line of soda makers, continuing the brand’s focus on sleek design and durable materials. Compared to its predecessors, the Carbonator 1 and 2, this model introduces a few notable improvements. These include upgraded safety features, a more precise carbonation system, and a refined lever mechanism for a smoother operation. While the design remains largely consistent with Aarke’s minimalist, stainless steel aesthetic, the Carbonator 3 shows incremental advancements rather than a radical redesign. It fits comfortably within the Aarke product family, catering to those who prioritize both style and function in their kitchen appliances. For users already familiar with Aarke, the Carbonator 3 offers a reliable and slightly improved experience, though those looking for a significant leap in features may find the differences subtle.
Unboxing and First Impressions
The packaging of the Aarke Carbonator 3 is a perfect reflection of the brand’s commitment to minimalist yet stylish design. True to Aarke’s aesthetic, the box is sleek and understated, with clean lines and simple branding that immediately conveys a sense of quality. Upon opening, the thoughtful arrangement of the contents reinforces the brand’s attention to detail. Each component is securely nestled in its place, with no use of plastic, emphasizing sustainability and elegance. The unboxing experience feels premium, yet uncomplicated, much like the product itself. This minimalist approach to packaging not only aligns with Aarke’s brand ethos but also enhances the overall experience, making the first impression of the Carbonator 3 as sophisticated and refined as the product it houses.
Whats Included?
In the package you will find:
- A user manual in multiple languates
- A chrome drip tray cover
- A cleaning cloth
Aesthetic & Build Quality
The Aarke Carbonator 3 stands out for its exceptional aesthetic and build quality, embodying a sleek, minimalist design that complements any modern kitchen. Crafted from high-quality stainless steel, the Carbonator 3 not only looks luxurious but also feels incredibly sturdy and durable. This material choice ensures that the machine is built to last, resisting wear and tear while maintaining its elegant appearance over time.
Aarke offers the Carbonator 3 in a variety of sophisticated colors, including Matte Black, Sand, Steel, Brass, and Copper, allowing users to choose a finish that best matches their personal style or kitchen decor. Each color option is meticulously applied, providing a flawless finish that enhances the overall look and feel of the machine. The combination of premium materials and thoughtful design choices underscores Aarke’s commitment to delivering a product that is as much a statement piece as it is a functional appliance. Whether you prefer the timeless appeal of polished steel or the contemporary look of matte black, the Carbonator 3 offers an aesthetic that blends seamlessly with both classic and modern interiors.
Setup and Ease of Use
Getting the Aarke Carbonator 3 set up for the first time was surprisingly simple and. The first thing I did was take a look at the CO2 canister, which needed to be installed before I could start making sparkling water. The bottom of the machine has an opening for the CO2 canister. It fit perfectly, and screwing it into place was easy—nothing tricky about it. I appreciated how everything was designed to feel sturdy and secure, giving me confidence that this was a well-built appliance.
I washed the supplied bottle and then came the moment I’d been waiting for: actually making my first bottle of sparkling water. I filled the Aarke bottle with cold water, up to the fill line, and then screwed it into the machine. The bottle clicked into place, and I was ready to carbonate. Pulling down the lever was satisfying—I could hear the CO2 doing its magic, transforming the plain water into something much more exciting. Two pumps later, I unscrewed the bottle, and there it was: my first batch of homemade sparkling water, crisp and bubbly.
The whole setup process felt intuitive, almost like the machine was designed to make you feel confident and in control from the get-go.
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Safety Information:
Since you are working with high pressure CO2, I recommend reading the manual as there are some important safety instructions such as:
- Dont hold the bottle while filling it with CO2
- Don’t use other bottlers that are not designed for this machine, the bottle has a release valve to ensure it doesnt explode when you fill it.
- Don’t wash the bottle in your dishwasher, it is NOT dishwasher safe
- Don’t use the bottle if there is any sign of damage.
- Don’t add more than 3 pumps of CO2 to one bottle of water.
Performance and Functionality
The carbonation process with the Aarke Carbonator 3 is both simple and satisfying. When you pull down the lever, the machine injects CO2 gas from the canister into the water, creating those refreshing bubbles we all love. The lever operation is smooth and requires just the right amount of pressure, making it easy to use without feeling flimsy. In just a few seconds, your water is fully carbonated, ready to be enjoyed. The efficiency of the process is impressive; you get sparkling water almost instantly, and it’s consistently fizzy. The design of the Carbonator 3 ensures that you can achieve the desired level of carbonation with just a few pumps, giving you control over how bubbly you want your water to be.
When it comes to consistency, the Carbonator 3 really shines. It delivers a reliable level of carbonation every time, whether you prefer a gentle fizz or something more robust. The machine allows you to control the intensity of the carbonation by simply adjusting the number of lever presses, so you can customize each bottle to your liking. As for noise, the Carbonator 3 is pleasantly quiet during operation.
You’ll hear the CO2 injection followed by a satisfying hiss of the pressure release valve, but it’s far from disruptive, I have 3 dogs and 2 cats that quickly complain about noise but it doesnt bother them at all.
Value for Money
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is priced higher than many other soda makers on the market, but there are good reasons for this. Unlike most competitors, which often use plastic in their construction, the Carbonator 3 is crafted from high-quality stainless steel, giving it a premium feel and exceptional durability. This choice of materials not only enhances its longevity but also contributes to its sleek, minimalist design that looks more like a piece of modern kitchen decor than a typical appliance. Additionally, Aarke has focused on creating a user-friendly, reliable product that offers consistent performance with each use, which justifies the higher cost. While you might pay less for a basic plastic model, the Carbonator 3 offers a blend of style, quality, and longevity that makes it a worthwhile investment for those who appreciate both form and function in their kitchen gadgets.
When you invest in a soda maker like the Aarke Carbonator 3, CO2 canisters become a key part of the equation. These canisters are what allow you to carbonate water at home, and while they do require replacement, they are generally more cost-effective in the long run compared to buying bottled sparkling water. A standard CO2 canister can carbonate around 60 liters of water, depending on how fizzy you like your drinks.
When you break it down, the cost per liter of homemade sparkling water using a CO2 canister is significantly lower than purchasing bottled sparkling water from the store. Even factoring in the initial investment of the machine and the ongoing cost of canisters, you’re likely to see a return on investment (ROI) fairly quickly, especially if you’re someone who regularly drinks sparkling water. Plus, making your own at home means fewer trips to the store and less environmental impact from single-use plastic or glass bottles. Over time, not only do you save money, but you also enjoy the convenience of having fresh sparkling water on demand without the added waste.
User Feedback and Ratings
General user sentiment for the Aarke Carbonator 3 across various platforms like Amazon and the manufacturer’s site is overwhelmingly positive. Many users praise the Carbonator 3 for its sleek, stylish design, which they say looks great in any kitchen. The build quality is frequently highlighted, with users appreciating the durable stainless steel construction, which sets it apart from other soda makers that often feel flimsy or cheap. The ease of use is another common point of praise, with many noting how simple and satisfying it is to carbonate water with just a few lever pulls.
However, there are a few recurring complaints. Some users mention that the price is higher compared to other soda makers, which can be a deterrent for those on a budget. A few users have also noted that while the machine is generally quiet, there can be a brief, louder hiss when carbonating, which might be surprising at first. Additionally, some customers have reported that the machine struggles to carbonate anything other than water, despite its primary design for this purpose. Despite these minor issues, the overall sentiment remains highly positive, with most users agreeing that the Carbonator 3 is a worthwhile investment for those who value both design and function.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek and Stylish Design: The Carbonator 3 features a minimalist, modern design made from high-quality stainless steel, making it a standout piece in any kitchen.
- Durable Build Quality: Unlike many soda makers that use plastic, the Carbonator 3 is constructed with stainless steel, offering enhanced durability and longevity.
- Ease of Use: The lever operation is smooth and intuitive, making the carbonation process quick and satisfying.
- Consistent Carbonation: Users can easily control the level of carbonation, with the machine delivering consistent results every time.
- Quiet Operation: Compared to other soda makers, the Carbonator 3 operates relatively quietly, with only a brief hiss during carbonation.
- Environmental Impact: By reducing the need for single-use plastic or glass bottles, it’s a more sustainable choice for sparkling water lovers.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The Carbonator 3 is more expensive than many other soda makers, which could be a drawback for budget-conscious buyers.
- Limited Versatility: While it excels at carbonating water, the machine is less effective with other liquids, and using it for non-water beverages could void the warranty.
- CO2 Canister Replacement Cost: Although it’s more cost-effective in the long run, the ongoing need to replace CO2 canisters adds to the overall expense.
- Initial Setup Cost: The need to purchase a CO2 canister separately (it is not included) can add to the initial setup cost.
Final Verdict
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is a premium soda maker that effortlessly combines style, durability, and functionality. With its sleek stainless steel design, it’s not just an appliance but a statement piece that elevates the look of any kitchen. The machine’s build quality is top-notch, offering a robust and long-lasting solution for those who regularly enjoy sparkling water. The carbonation process is smooth, quick, and easy to control, allowing users to customize the level of fizz to their liking with consistent results.
However, the Carbonator 3 comes with a higher price tag compared to other soda makers, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. While it’s primarily designed for carbonating water, its effectiveness with other liquids is limited, and users should be mindful of the ongoing cost of CO2 canister replacements. Despite these drawbacks, the Carbonator 3 shines in its category, especially for those who value aesthetics, build quality, and a sustainable approach to enjoying sparkling water at home.
In summary, if you’re looking for a soda maker that offers both form and function, and you’re willing to invest a bit more for a product that’s built to last, the Aarke Carbonator 3 is a fantastic choice. It provides a refined, user-friendly experience and helps reduce your reliance on single-use plastic bottles, making it a worthwhile addition to any environmentally conscious household.