10Best.Guide

Soda Fountain Machine

Top Picks

Last Updated: June, 2024
Pros
  • Retro design looks great in small kitchens.
  • Easy to use and customize carbonation.
  • Saves money compared to buying canned sparkling water.
  • Comes with two CO2 bottles.
  • Well-made and sturdy.
Cons
  • Flavor options are terrible.
  • Bubbles do not last as long as normal soda.
Bottom Line
The SodaStream machine is a great investment for those who want to save money and customize their carbonated water. However, the flavor options are lacking, and the reusable bottles may be problematic. The tall design may also be inconvenient for some kitchens.
Pros
  • Easy to use and set up
  • Makes cocktails quickly and easily
  • Great addition to home bar
  • Design is sleek and attractive
  • Perfectly balanced cocktails
Cons
  • Pods make small drinks
  • Pods can be overpriced
Bottom Line
The BLACK+DECKER Cocktail Maker Machine and Drink Maker is a great addition to any home bar, making perfectly balanced cocktails quickly and easily. However, the pods make small drinks and can be overpriced, and the machine uses a lot of alcohol. It may not be the best option for those looking to make larger drinks or save money on cocktail ingredients.
Pros
  • Easy to operate
  • Comes with accessories and recipes
  • Compact and attractive design
  • Good for making crushed ice
  • Safe for kids to use
Cons
  • Produces crushed ice instead of snow cones
  • Made of cheap plastic
Bottom Line
The snow cone machine is a good option for those who enjoy snacking on crushed ice and want an affordable and easy-to-use machine. However, it may not be the best choice for those looking for a machine that produces snow cones instead of crushed ice. The machine is made of plastic and has some design flaws, but it comes with a warranty and is safe for kids to use.
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Makes fine shaved ice
  • Affordable
  • Detachable parts for easy cleaning
  • Works amazing once it catches the ice cube
Cons
  • Flimsy plastic door
  • Loud
Bottom Line
The Nostalgia Snow Cone Maker is an affordable and easy-to-use machine that makes fine shaved ice. However, it has some durability issues and a few design flaws, such as a flimsy plastic door and a loud motor. Overall, it is a good choice for occasional use and small parties.
Pros
  • Super affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Works quickly
  • Adorable design
  • Crushes ice quickly
Cons
  • Loud
  • Doesn't keep ice cold
Bottom Line
This snow cone machine is a great addition for home use and family events. It is affordable, easy to use, and surprisingly durable. However, it can be loud, slow to shave ice, and has some design flaws such as no auto shut off switch and a flimsily made body.

Ultimate Buying Guide for Soda Fountain Machines

Overview

Soda fountain machines are essential for businesses that serve carbonated beverages. This buying guide will help you navigate the options available, understand key considerations, and choose the best soda fountain machine for your needs.

Types

1. Post-Mix Soda Fountain Machines: These machines mix syrup and carbonated water at the point of dispensing, offering a wide variety of flavors.

2. Pre-Mix Soda Fountain Machines: Pre-mixed soda fountain machines combine syrup and carbonated water in the machine, requiring less maintenance.

3. Counter-Top Soda Fountain Machines: Ideal for smaller spaces, these machines sit on the counter and dispense soda with ease.

4. Freestyle Soda Fountain Machines: These innovative machines offer a vast selection of flavors and customizable drink options.

Key Considerations

1. Capacity: Consider the volume of drinks you expect to serve daily.

2. Space: Determine the available space for installation.

3. Maintenance: Evaluate the ease of cleaning and maintenance requirements.

4. Branding: Choose a machine that aligns with your branding and aesthetic.

5. Budget: Set a budget and look for machines that offer the best value for your investment.

Features

1. Number of Flavors: Choose a machine that offers a variety of drink options.

2. Ice Dispenser: Some machines come with an integrated ice dispenser for convenience.

3. Adjustable Settings: Look for machines with customizable settings for drink consistency.

4. Self-Cleaning Function: Opt for machines with self-cleaning features to simplify maintenance.

5. Energy Efficiency: Consider machines with energy-saving features to reduce operational costs.

Prices

Soda fountain machine prices vary depending on the type, brand, and features. Entry-level models start around $1,000, while high-end commercial machines can cost several thousand dollars.

Tips

1. Test Different Brands: Try out different soda fountain machines to find the best fit for your business.

2. Consider Long-Term Costs: Factor in maintenance, repair, and operational costs when budgeting for a soda fountain machine.

3. Read Reviews: Check customer reviews and ratings to gauge the performance and reliability of the machine.

FAQs

Q: How often should I clean my soda fountain machine?

A: - Cleaning frequency depends on usage but aim for weekly deep cleaning.

Q: Can I customize the flavors in a soda fountain machine?

A: - Yes, many machines offer customizable flavor options for a personalized drink experience.

Q: Do soda fountain machines require professional installation?

A: - While some machines may require professional installation, many can be set up by following the manufacturer's instructions.

By following this comprehensive buying guide, you can make an informed decision when purchasing a soda fountain machine that meets your business needs and budget.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Cute and solid design
  • Official Jelly Belly product
  • Can be used for medication
  • Can hold a surprising amount of jelly beans
  • Durable for shipping
Cons
  • Jelly beans get stuck or bounce out
  • Blue plastic dispenser lever can break off
Bottom Line
The Jelly Belly dispenser is a cute and durable product that can hold a good amount of jelly beans or even medication. However, it has some design flaws that may cause frustration for users, such as jelly beans getting stuck or the dispenser not working properly.
Pros
  • Convenient and easy to use
  • Affordable price
  • Easy to clean
  • Works well for protein shakes
  • Makes great foam
Cons
  • Not powerful enough for hard ice cream
  • Beater has little strength
Bottom Line
The Hamilton Beach DrinkMaster is an affordable and convenient option for making milkshakes and protein shakes. It may not be powerful enough for hard ice cream, but it is easy to clean and produces great foam. However, it requires additional ingredients for a creamy consistency and has some durability concerns with plastic parts.
Pros
  • One press and done carbonation
  • Screw-in bottle for charging CO2
  • Refined and modern design
  • Excellent customer service
  • No electricity needed
Cons
  • Cannisters run out quickly
  • Inconsistent carbonation
Bottom Line
The Philips Sparkling Water Maker has a sleek design and is easy to use, but it has some issues with carbonation consistency and cannister longevity. Additionally, the missing rubber seal and lack of control over pressure release are minor inconveniences. Buyers should be aware that the CO2 cylinder is not included and may be difficult to find.
Pros
  • No touch bottle filler is great
  • Good customer service from Elkay
  • Great for schools and camps
  • Quality product from Elkay
  • Unit works well
Cons
  • Difficult to install
  • Expensive to install
Bottom Line
The Elkay water fountain with bottle filler is a great product with a no touch bottle filler that is perfect for schools and camps. However, it is difficult and expensive to install, and has some issues with rusting, inaccurate filter indicators, and inconsistent water temperature.
Pros
  • Sleek design
  • Affordable price
  • Easy to use
  • Replacement carbonator works well
  • Cap can be found in cardboard ends
Cons
  • Poor carbonation retention
  • Aftertaste in water
Bottom Line
This product is affordable and has a sleek design, but it may not be the best option for those who prioritize carbonation retention and taste. The package may also be incomplete, but the cap can be found in the cardboard ends.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}