Which is Better: Sparkling Water or Soda Water?

October 9, 2025 •

5 min read

According to nutrition experts, both sparkling and soda water are healthier, sugar-free alternatives to soft drinks. Yet, despite their similarities, the key to choosing which is better, sparkling water or soda water, lies in understanding their distinct ingredients and flavor profiles. This guide will help you determine which carbonated beverage is the perfect fit for your taste buds and health goals.

Quick Summary

This article explains the fundamental differences between sparkling water and soda water, focusing on their distinct mineral content, taste, and use cases. It helps consumers make an informed decision based on their health priorities, flavor preferences, and how they plan to use the beverage.

Key Points

Source & Additives: Sparkling water is often natural from springs, or plain water + CO2. Soda water (club soda) is always plain water + CO2 + added minerals (salts).
Taste Difference: Sparkling water has a neutral, cleaner taste, while soda water has a slightly saltier and more mineral-forward taste profile.
Sodium Content: Sparkling water is generally lower in sodium, making it a purer hydration choice for everyday drinking.
Best for Mixers: Soda water's mineral content and robust fizz make it a preferred mixer for many cocktails, especially whiskey and gin.
Healthiest Option: Unsweetened and unflavored versions of either are excellent, zero-calorie, sugar-free alternatives to sugary soft drinks.
Hydration Equivalent: Both versions of carbonated water are just as hydrating as still water, offering a good way to meet daily water intake goals.
Personal Choice: The 'better' option depends on your specific needs, whether it's daily, low-sodium hydration or a flavorful cocktail mixer.

Unpacking the Difference Between Sparkling Water and Soda Water

At first glance, both sparkling water and soda water appear identical: clear, bubbly, and refreshing. However, a closer look reveals that they are not the same, and the differences can significantly impact your drinking experience. The primary distinction lies in their source and added ingredients.

What is Sparkling Water?

Sparkling water is a broad term for water that has been carbonated. It can be naturally carbonated, with the fizz originating from a spring or well source, or artificially carbonated by infusing still water with carbon dioxide gas. Naturally sourced sparkling mineral waters contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and sodium from their underground journey, which can subtly affect the flavor. Brands of plain sparkling water, however, are simply water and CO2, with a clean, neutral taste.

What is Soda Water (Club Soda)?

Soda water, commonly known as club soda, is artificially carbonated water with added minerals, most often including sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) and potassium sulfate. These additives give soda water a slightly salty or mineral-like taste and a sharper, more robust fizz. The extra minerals also help the drink retain its bubbles, making it a favorite mixer for cocktails.

The Health and Taste Face-Off

For those watching their health, the differences between these two carbonated waters are important. While both are excellent zero-calorie, zero-sugar alternatives to sugary sodas, the added sodium in club soda is the main nutritional difference to be aware of.

For Everyday Hydration: If your primary goal is simple, sodium-free hydration, plain sparkling water is the better choice. It's the purer option, providing the hydrating benefits of still water with a refreshing carbonation.
For Sodium-Conscious Individuals: People on low-sodium diets should be mindful of club soda's mineral additives. While the sodium content is not excessive, daily consumption could add up. Always check the nutrition label to be sure.
For Added Minerals: On the other hand, sparkling mineral water, especially from a natural source, can offer beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which contribute to bone health and daily nutritional intake.

Usage and Flavor Profiles

Your intended use for the beverage will heavily influence which is the better choice for you. The difference in taste is subtle but noticeable and can alter the outcome of a mixed drink.

As a Standalone Drink: If you prefer a clean, neutral, and crisp effervescence, sparkling water is your best bet. A slice of lemon or lime can add a refreshing twist without overpowering the natural taste.
For Cocktails and Mixers: Club soda's slightly salty and mineral-forward flavor is designed to complement spirits. This robust taste adds a layer of complexity and helps hold the drink's carbonation longer, making it a classic choice for cocktails. While sparkling water can be used as a substitute, its neutral profile may result in a softer finish.

Comparison Table


Feature	Sparkling Water	Soda Water (Club Soda)
Source	Naturally from springs/wells OR artificially carbonated from purified water	Artificially carbonated from purified water
Added Minerals	Only naturally occurring minerals (e.g., calcium, magnesium) in natural varieties; none in plain versions	Added minerals like sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate for taste
Taste Profile	Clean, neutral, and crisp; flavor reflects its natural mineral content if sourced from a spring	Slightly salty, tangy, or mineral-like taste due to added salts
Fizz Intensity	Varies by brand, but generally a softer, less sharp carbonation than club soda	Puts off a sharper, more persistent fizz
Best For	Daily hydration, enjoying on its own, light mocktails, and cocktails that require a subtle fizz	Classic cocktails (e.g., Gin & Soda, Whiskey & Soda), mixed drinks where a distinct taste is desired
Sodium Content	Very low to none, depending on the source and brand	Contains added sodium, so check labels for dietary restrictions

Making Your Choice

Your ultimate decision depends on personal taste and how you intend to use the beverage. If you are seeking a clean, pure, and simple bubbly drink for everyday consumption, plain sparkling water or a naturally sourced mineral variety is the optimal choice. For those mixing cocktails where a saltier, more robust fizz is desired to enhance other flavors, soda water is the clear winner.

Regardless of your choice, both beverages are excellent zero-calorie, sugar-free alternatives to sugary sodas. The key is to check the ingredient list for any added sugars or artificial sweeteners, as these will negate the health benefits of choosing carbonated water. Making your own sparkling water with a home carbonation system is another eco-friendly way to control ingredients and customize your fizz.

Conclusion

While sparkling water and soda water share the characteristic of being bubbly, their core differences in taste and composition set them apart. Sparkling water is the purer, lower-sodium option ideal for everyday hydration and those who prefer a clean, neutral flavor. Soda water, with its added minerals and distinct tangy taste, is better suited for specific cocktails where its unique flavor profile can shine. The best choice ultimately boils down to your personal preference and intended use. By understanding these nuances, you can confidently select the perfect carbonated water for your needs.

For more detailed information on different water types, see the Breville Blog on Soda vs. Sparkling vs. Seltzer Water.

Is sparkling water or soda water better?: Concise Takeaways

Taste Profile Varies: Sparkling water has a clean, neutral taste, while soda water has a slightly salty, tangy flavor due to added minerals.
Consider Sodium Intake: Plain sparkling water is typically sodium-free, making it a better choice for those monitoring sodium levels.
Best for Cocktails: Soda water's minerals enhance the taste of cocktails and help the bubbles last longer.
Hydration is Equal: Both sparkling water and soda water are just as hydrating as regular still water.
Healthiest Options are Unsweetened: The healthiest choice depends on avoiding added sugars and artificial sweeteners in any flavored varieties.
Source Matters: Natural sparkling mineral water can provide beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, unlike artificially fortified soda water.
Personal Preference is Key: The decision of which is better depends on your flavor preferences and how you plan to use the carbonated water.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 'club soda' is another common name for soda water. Both terms refer to carbonated water with added minerals, such as sodium bicarbonate and potassium sulfate, which contribute to its distinct salty or tangy taste.

In terms of pure, unadulterated water, plain sparkling water is generally considered healthier because it contains no added sodium. Soda water includes added salts for flavor, which individuals on low-sodium diets should be mindful of.

Soda water is typically the better choice for cocktails. Its added minerals give it a sharper, tangier flavor that complements spirits well, and its stronger carbonation helps the bubbles last longer.

Yes, you can use sparkling water as a substitute for soda water, but the taste of your mixed drink will be slightly different. Sparkling water provides a cleaner, more neutral base, resulting in a lighter-tasting beverage.

It depends. Plain sparkling water has no added sodium. However, naturally sourced sparkling mineral water may contain trace amounts of minerals, including sodium, depending on the source.

No, in their plain form, neither sparkling water nor soda water contains any calories or sugar. This makes them a healthier alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Both are excellent for weight loss as zero-calorie, zero-sugar alternatives to soda. The best option is the one you prefer, as the goal is to choose a satisfying beverage that helps you drink more water and stay hydrated.