“Choose the hydrogen system first, then the size. I’d start with iBottle+ for the upgraded PEM element, and choose 230ml or 400ml around the way you actually drink.”
Sam, Research Scientist at iBottle
The two 400ml bottles look the same. One says iBottle, the other says iBottle+. Then there’s a smaller 230ml iBottle+ with a different shape. If you’re trying to work out what you’re actually getting, the photos only tell you half the story.
My advice: choose the hydrogen system first, then the size. I’d start with iBottle+ if the upgraded hydrogen system is what you’re after. From there, the choice is straightforward: 400ml for a larger serve, or 230ml when a more compact bottle matters more.
Here’s what changes between the three options, and how to choose without getting lost in the names.
Illustration of the compact and tall designs. The model table below covers all three options.
iBottle vs iBottle+: The Three Options
There are two decisions in this table: standard or upgraded hydrogen system, and smaller or larger capacity. Keep those separate and the names become much less confusing.
| Model | Hydrogen system | Size and design | Best fit for your priorities |
|---|---|---|---|
| iBottle 400ml | Standard iBottle system | 400ml; same exterior design as iBottle+ 400ml | You prefer the standard model after comparing the upgrade and today’s prices. |
| iBottle+ 400ml | Upgraded premium PEM hydrogen element | 400ml; same exterior design as iBottle 400ml | You want the upgraded system and the larger serve together. |
| iBottle+ 230ml | Premium iBottle+ model | 230ml; its own, more compact exterior design | You want iBottle+ in the smaller format. |
The design and system differences are also explained in our iBottle model FAQs. You’ll find the two capacities on the iBottle+ product page.
What Does the “+” Actually Change?
The important difference sits inside the bottle. iBottle+ uses an upgraded premium PEM hydrogen element, allowing it to produce a higher hydrogen concentration than standard iBottle.
That’s why comparing the two 400ml versions by appearance won’t get you very far. Their matching exterior is intentional. You’re choosing between hydrogen systems in the same bottle design.
If hydrogen performance is your reason for buying, I’d give the upgraded system priority. Then compare the price of the exact options you’re considering. Open standard iBottle and iBottle+ side by side, select your options, and look at the actual difference at checkout.
If you’re happy with the standard model, choose it deliberately. If you want the upgraded element, choose the Plus. There’s no need to guess from a product photo.
For a closer look at the system, read why PEM electrolysis matters. For the measurement side, start with how to test a hydrogen water bottle.
230ml or 400ml? Think About Your Next Drink
Think about an ordinary day. Where will the bottle sit? How much do you like to drink at once? Will you have somewhere convenient to refill it?
Choose 400ml when you want the larger serve
If you want more water in the bottle between refills, start here. The 400ml size is available as standard iBottle or iBottle+, so choosing the larger capacity still leaves you a choice of hydrogen system.
Imagine it beside your keyboard or on the kitchen bench. If space is available and you prefer the larger serve, 400ml makes sense.
Choose 230ml when compactness matters more
The 230ml iBottle+ has a different, more compact exterior. Start here if your bag space is limited or you prefer a smaller serve and can refill easily.
Be realistic about that refill point. A smaller bottle makes more sense when it suits the way you already spend your day.
Measure the space it needs to fit
A capacity label won’t tell you whether a bottle fits your car’s cup holder. Measure the opening and available height, then ask us to check the model dimensions against them. Do the same for a fitted bag pocket.
What to Check Before Ordering
- ✅ The complete model name. Check for the “+” if you want the upgraded system.
- ✅ The selected capacity. Choose 230ml or 400ml on the iBottle+ page, then check that choice again in your cart.
- ✅ The design shown for that size. The compact 230ml bottle has its own shape.
- ✅ The place you’ll carry it. Measure a tight cup holder or pocket before making assumptions about fit.
- ✅ The manual and parts. Match both to your exact model.
- ✅ The current total. Compare your selected options and read the returns and warranty terms before checkout.
Buying a gift? Ask one simple question: “Would you rather have a smaller bottle or a larger drink?” That gives you something useful to choose around.
Keep the Right Manual With Your Bottle
Once you’ve chosen, save the matching instructions. You’ll want them for first use, charging and cleaning:
For replacement parts, check the model as carefully as you checked it when buying. The replacement glass kit is listed for iBottle 400ml and iBottle+ 400ml. That listing doesn’t include the 230ml model. If you’re unsure which bottle you own, send us a photo before ordering a part.
My Recommendation: Start With What Matters to You
I’d choose iBottle+ 400ml if you want the upgraded PEM element and a larger serve. It brings those two priorities together.
Choose iBottle+ 230ml when the smaller format is the deciding factor. Consider standard iBottle 400ml if you prefer the standard system after weighing up the upgrade and current price.
Still deciding between iBottle and another brand? Our Australian hydrogen water bottle comparison covers that wider choice.
FAQ: Choosing Your iBottle Model and Size
Why do iBottle and iBottle+ look identical in 400ml?
They deliberately share the same exterior design. The Plus has the upgraded premium PEM hydrogen element inside; that’s the model difference to compare.
Does choosing 400ml automatically mean I’m buying iBottle+?
No. Both standard iBottle and iBottle+ come in 400ml. Check the full product name as well as the capacity.
Is iBottle+ 230ml just a shorter version of the 400ml bottle?
It has its own, more compact external design. Look at the images for the selected size rather than assuming both shapes are identical.
Does a bigger capacity mean a higher hydrogen concentration?
Capacity tells you how much water a bottle holds. Concentration is a separate measurement. Use the exact model’s test information for that comparison; our PPB and PPM guide explains how to read the numbers.
Will the 400ml replacement glass kit fit iBottle+ 230ml?
The kit is listed for the two 400ml models only. For a 230ml part, contact us with your model details before buying.
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