Aarke Carbonator 3 Matte Black Review
I've been using the Aarke Carbonator 3 since 2021, and after four years of regular use, it's become an essential part of my kitchen setup. Not just for function, but as a design piece that actually gets used.
Usability & Features
The Carbonator 3 is simple to use. Fill the bottle to the line, screw it in, push the lever until you hear the buzz, and you're done. No electricity needed, no complex settings. I use it every other day for plain sparkling water, and the consistency has been spot-on throughout the years.
The lever action feels solid and premium, with satisfying mechanical feedback that cheaper carbonators can't match. One thing to note: filling the bottle past the line can cause some spillage through the pressure release valve, but once you get the hang of it, it's smooth sailing.
The machine works with standard 60L CO2 cylinders (compatible with SodaStream and others), and one cylinder provides around 60 liters of sparkling water. In my experience, a cylinder lasts about a month with every-other-day use, though this varies by household size and carbonation preferences.
Aesthetic & Design
This is where the Aarke truly shines. While other carbonators look like plastic appliances you'd want to hide away, the Carbonator 3 in matte black is a genuine design object. The stainless steel enclosure with its rough-textured matte black finish looks sharp on any kitchen counter. Friends actually comment on it and several have bought one after seeing mine in action.
At just 1.68kg and with dimensions of 41.4 x 15.3 x 25.8 cm, it's substantial enough to feel quality without dominating counter space. The cordless design means no cable management issues, just clean lines.
Durability & Care
After four years of regular use, my Carbonator 3 is still going strong. The machine itself has required zero repairs or maintenance beyond an occasional wipe-down. The build quality is evident in daily use. Nothing feels loose or worn despite hundreds of carbonation cycles.
The original Aarke PET bottle lasted about a year before I managed to damage it (pro tip: don't take it to the sauna). I replaced it with a FIZZ IT stainless steel bottle from Amazon, which has proven even more durable and works perfectly with the machine. While Aarke sells their own stainless steel bottles for €45, third-party options work just as well.
Maintenance is minimal. Just wipe the exterior occasionally to keep it looking pristine. The bottle isn't dishwasher safe, but a quick hand rinse is all it needs.
Final Thoughts
The Aarke Carbonator 3 is a premium product that delivers on both form and function. After four years, I can say it was worth the investment. Not necessarily for cost savings on sparkling water, but for the combination of reliable performance, exceptional design, and the simple pleasure of using a well-made tool every day.
Yes, you're paying a premium compared to plastic alternatives, but you're getting Swedish design, quality construction, and something you'll actually want to display rather than hide. If aesthetics matter to you and you can't stand the thought of an ugly SodaStream on your counter, the Aarke is the answer.
The 3-year warranty (when registered) provides peace of mind, though based on my experience, you're unlikely to need it.
