Category: Hardware

  • Maximum Simplicity

    Maximum Simplicity

    The new XROS pod system from Vaporesso revolutionizes the method for filling vapor devices.

    By Mike Huml

    The XROS from Vaporesso is a pod system representing the culmination of the most successful features available in a pod. From its build quality to its ease of use, nothing is out of place or unnecessary. The XROS retains maximum simplicity while offering superior vapor production and flavor. Vaporesso is well known for its quality and innovation, and the XROS is no exception.

    The newly released XROS is a pod system with a manual-automatic switch combination, an 800 mAh battery and a 2 mL e-liquid capacity. It uses a USB Type-C connection for extremely fast charging and a single LED below the fire button to display battery life and charging status. The reverse side of the body features adjustable airflow, allowing the user to vape using both direct-lung and mouth-to-lung vaping styles.

    The pod itself is held in place securely with two magnets. The top half of the pod is transparent and extrudes far enough beyond the body that determining the amount of remaining e-liquid is effortless. The top part of the pod is the mouthpiece, which can be easily removed to reveal the filling port. Vaporesso has taken the extra step to make sure that filling is quick, easy and clean.

    If that all sounds standard, think again. If other pod systems are easy to fill, the XROS is easier. If other pod systems are great for mouth-to-lung and direct-lung vaping, the XROS is better. There is not a single area where the XROS doesn’t excel, and that is mainly due to the nuanced and subtle improvements over past pod systems.

    One of the largest improvements over other pod systems is the filling method. First and foremost, the pod does not need to be removed to be filled, which isn’t in and of itself unique, but it is rare. What’s more impressive is the simple and intuitive filling method. After removing the mouthpiece, the e-liquid bottle is simply inserted into the fill port and squeezed until the reservoir is full.

    This generally leads to all sorts of issues such as flooding, leaking or e-liquid backing up due to pressure and surface tension. However, the XROS eliminates these issues by using a flap to seal the fill port when it’s not in use as well as introducing a pinhole opposite the fill port to release pressure when the pod is filled. It’s another one of those things that’s so incredibly simple and effective that it’s a wonder it hasn’t been thought of already.

    Each pod is available in 1.2 ohm and 0.8 ohm varieties, with the 0.8 ohm pods using a red rubber seal as opposed to the 1.2 ohm’s black seal so that the user can tell which is which at a glance. The practical difference between these two resistances is negligible. The 0.8 ohm pods will generate slightly more heat and therefore are better for direct-lung vaping due to the increased airflow required, but both pods perform perfectly regardless of vaping style.

    Both pods incorporate mesh coils for increased surface area, which also means more vapor and flavor at lower powers. While the XROS uses a constant voltage output and can’t be adjusted, both coils are tuned specifically for this device, and voltage adjustment isn’t necessary.

    The coils have also been tuned to work well with the full range of airflow available with the XROS. By sliding the airflow adjustment all the way to the right, the airflow will be at its most restricted, and sliding it to the left will open it up for direct-lung vaping. While many pod systems rely on more open airflow for increased vapor production, the XROS produces impressive vapor at its most open and when closed.

    Additionally, a common problem with many pods that claim to support mouth-to-lung vaping is that other than the adjustable airflow, nothing about the airflow path is designed for mouth-to-lung vaping. The coil is too large, the wire too thick or the airflow inlet too wide. This leads to poor vapor production, weak flavor and a harsh throat hit. Amazingly, the XROS suffers from none of these issues, no matter which coil is installed. Both the 0.8 ohm and 1.2 ohm pods offer great vapor and pure flavor without an overly harsh throat hit when direct-lung vaping and mouth-to-lung vaping.

    The XROS only has one button, and it is used to turn the power on or off and optionally to fire the device manually. As is the standard, five clicks of the button will toggle the power on or off. Holding the button will fire the coil, but this is down to personal preference. The automatic switch more closely simulates smoking, but the manual switch allows for more control and pre-firing.

    There are no settings to switch back and forth, and the user can simply vape however they want without having to think about it. Underneath the button is a single LED that will illuminate when the switch is activated or when the device is charging. Green signifies that the battery is above 70 percent charged, blue indicates a charge between 30 percent and 70 percent while red is reserved for a charge level under 30 percent.

    When it comes to the fit and finish, the XROS is second to none. The glossy metallic finish does collect some fingerprints but only minimally so. It never ruins the overall sleekness, even after days of use. The XROS is also fairly heavy for its size. It exudes a sense of quality, and it’s not so heavy as to take away from its portability or convenience. Overall, it’s a simple design that gets the job done and looks great in the process.

    The incorporation of the USB Type-C charging port is a welcome addition that should be making its way into more devices for two main reasons. First, it eliminates the annoyance of having to fiddle with the charger to ensure that it fits correctly. Unlike micro-USBs, the USB Type-C charger is symmetrical and can be inserted in either direction.

    Second, it can charge the battery much faster. In the case of the XROS, it can be charged at a rate of 1A when used with the proper adapter, which means it can charge the 800 mAh battery from empty to full in under 20 minutes. This virtually eliminates the need to worry about backup batteries. In today’s modern world, USB ports are abundant, and finding one to use for a few minutes in a pinch is getting easier and easier.

    With refillable pod systems gaining in popularity due to the ban on most pre-filled pods, many manufacturers have tossed their respective hats in the ring, but most don’t hold a candle to the XROS. The battery is solid and long-lasting with possibly the most effective adjustable airflow to be found in a pod system to date. The pods are disposable, eliminating the need to maneuver with replaceable pods in addition to replaceable coils. The disposable nature of the pods keeps things simple, which is what pod systems are all about.

    The filling system is also ingenious in its simplicity, allowing for fast fills with no mess. Fast charging via USB Type-C ports keeps downtime to a minimum, although the 800 mAh battery is likely to last for six to eight hours of constant use. Mouth-to-lung vapers will find quite a bit to love about the XROS with its perfectly tight airflow when restricted that produces clean and robust flavor as well as the ideal amount of vapor and throat hit. Vapers who favor direct-lung vaping should appreciate the increased vapor when the airflow is open, and it could be argued that the XROS rivals most “cloud-chasing” pods on the market in terms of raw performance.

    It can be difficult to find a pod system that’s just right for each vaper and that’s also made by a proven manufacturer, which is important due to the fact that replacement pods can become difficult to find over time. With the XROS being Vaporesso’s most recent pod system and with PMTAs taking effect, there is a good chance the XROS is here to stay. For those looking for the most reliable pod system in roughly the same vein as the Juul, the XROS is currently the best bet.

  • Manuel Maneuver

    Manuel Maneuver

    Innokin’s Sceptre is the latest pod system to incorporate a manual and automatic switch.

    By Mike Huml

    Innokin is a titan of the vapor industry, having made some of the highest quality vape gear available over the past decade. Their newest pod system, the Sceptre, is no exception. With amazing battery life, top tier build quality and support for multiple vaping styles, the Sceptre is a force to be reckoned with.

    The Sceptre is a little larger than a standard pod system, but it’s not a “pod-mod” by any means. The larger size is to accommodate a long-lasting 1400 mAh battery to ensure at least a full day’s worth of vaping. One button on the side is used to fire the device, toggle the power and adjust the output power. Three lights next to the fire button indicate the current battery life and output power. It’s slightly more involved than the run-of-the-mill pod system but still remarkably simple.

    Each pod includes an airflow adjustment via a simple slider on the side of the pod. The coils are replaceable by turning the plastic fitting on the bottom of the pod and sliding out the assembly. From there, it is just a matter of unscrewing the old coil and installing a new one. There are two types of coils available: a 1.2 ohm coil that is best suited to mouth-to-lung vaping and a 0.5 ohm coil that is better for direct-lung vaping.

    On the side opposite of the fire button is a micro-USB charging port. The included charging cable can be plugged into any USB port and can charge the battery from empty to full in under one hour. Given the size of the battery, the Sceptre should only need to be charged once per day with regular use.

    Like a growing number of other pod systems on the market, the Sceptre incorporates a manual and automatic switch. The fire button can be pressed to preheat the coil or just provide more control in general. Alternatively, the user can simply take a drag without pressing the button to more closely emulate smoking.

    Both methods provide a flavorful, smooth vaping experience, but it should be noted that the automatic switch only works when the pod is set to “MTL” mode. Pressing the fire button will also activate an LED underneath the pod that illuminates the e-liquid to more easily determine how much e-liquid is remaining without having to remove the entire pod. The pod is easily removed, however. It is held in place via a magnet and easily pops in and out of the battery.

    Each pod holds just over 2 mL of e-liquid, which is standard and adequate for multiple hours of use. The pod is filled by removing it from the battery and opening a silicone plug on the side. The fill port is large enough that it should not back up or clog when being filled by any reasonably sized bottle or dropper. The silicone cover feels thick and sturdy and won’t wear down or break, even after prolonged and repeated use.

    The Sceptre also offers two power settings for each coil. This can be adjusted by turning the device off with three clicks of the fire button then holding the fire button down for three seconds. Subsequently, each click will alternate the power output mode, indicated with either a green LED or a purple LED. The green LED signifies nine watts when using the 1.2 ohm coil and 18 watts when using the 0.5 ohm coil. The purple LED provides a small power boost, increasing the power output to 10 watts with the 1.2 ohm coil and 20 watts with the 0.5 ohm coil. The practical difference is subtle but noticeable and appreciated.

    The third LED near the switch displays the approximate remaining battery life. Green means that more than 50 percent of the battery charge remains, blue indicates a charge of 10 percent to 50 percent, and red is a warning that the battery is about to die and a charge is needed imminently. It is a simple system, but for most users, battery life shouldn’t be an issue if the Sceptre is charged overnight.

    The vape quality of the Sceptre is superb and really demonstrates how far pod systems have come in a short time. Airflow is smooth with no spitback to speak of, but it may be a bit airy for some discerning mouth-to-lung vapers, even with the airflow set to “MTL” mode. When the pod is removed, it reveals a switch with one side labeled “MTL” and the other designated “RDL.” As expected, when “RDL” mode is selected on the pod, the airflow opens up even more to accommodate direct-lung vaping. At this point, the automatic switch no longer functions, but the vapor production is significantly increased at no cost to flavor.

    The overall build quality and aesthetic of the Sceptre is Innokin at its finest. It’s a heavy device with a two-tone finish that resists fingerprints, and the device as a whole feels like it could easily withstand an accidental drop. It doesn’t shake or rattle and feels like a solid piece of hardware. The design is unassuming enough to not look tacky but still looks flawless and slick up close.

    The Sceptre is undoubtedly a step up from the traditional pod system in terms of complexity and features. It’s easy enough to “set and forget” just as one would with any similar device, but it also offers an elevated level of fine-tuning capability. Aside from multiple coil options, the airflow as well as the output power can be adjusted to suit most vapers’ preferences. The battery life is also a welcome upgrade, particularly among those who have become accustomed to charging a 150 mAh pod battery multiple times per day. No longer having to consider battery life throughout the day is truly a weight off users’ shoulders.

    Innokin has maintained its attention to detail in designing the Sceptre, both aesthetically and functionally. Despite the weight, the rounded sides are easy to hold, and it never feels as if the Sceptre isn’t a good option to bring on the go. The pod itself is clearly marked in such a way that most vapers should be able to figure out the airflow adjustment, coil replacement and filling without even opening the instruction booklet. It’s incredibly intuitive, particularly for anyone even remotely familiar with other vapor devices.

    Innokin has once again demonstrated why its products are revered as the best among the vaping community. The Sceptre offers a simple pod system with a few extra features that really set it apart from its peers. In terms of vapor, flavor and throat hit, the Sceptre is among the best in terms of performance, but it pulls ahead in terms of customization and fine-tuning.

    Very few pod systems offer adjustable power and airflow without delving into “pod-mod” territory. Innokin offers these features in a familiar package that’s suited to both newcomers and veterans alike and even offers battery life comparable to much larger devices without the accompanying size or shape. It should be no surprise to anyone in the vaping community that Innokin has a clear winner in the Sceptre. It ticks all the boxes for a robust and competitive pod system and is undoubtedly a worthy upgrade.

  • Everyone’s Invited

    Everyone’s Invited

    Smok’s NexMESH pod system offers a convenient small size and great battery life without sacrificing quality.

    By Mike Huml

    Smok and OFRF have teamed up to create the NexMESH pod system. It’s a compact mod-style pod system, and as its name suggests, it utilizes a stainless steel mesh coil for improved performance. The NexMESH incorporates a few options to allow for some fine-tuning and customization, but the device remains simple and accessible to a multitude of vapers with varying vaping styles.

    The NexMESH is a relatively simple looking device with no unnecessary flare. One side has a nice looking mesh cage attached while the other side houses the fire button right in the center of the “O” in OFRF. An OLED screen is located on one of the narrow sides and displays all relevant information at a glance, including power output, output voltage, coil resistance and remaining battery life.

    Two buttons underneath the screen allow for wattage adjustment, and when both are pressed simultaneously, the NexMESH will enter a locked state in which it cannot be fired inadvertently. Pressing this same button combination again will unlock the device. Pressing the fire button and the top button at the same time will flip the LCD screen’s orientation, and hitting the fire button five times in quick succession will turn the NexMESH on or off. This simple and user-friendly system will be familiar to most vapers, and if not, the most useful functions, such as power adjustment, are intuitive.

    The NexMESH is small and convenient, making it great for taking on the go. It’s refillable and holds 2 mL of e-liquid but also makes use of replacement coil heads. This means that instead of needing to purchase and replace the entire pod, the pod can be reused indefinitely. Two coils are available for the NexMESH. Both are 0.40 ohms, but one is made with standard round wire with a smaller diameter for mouth-to-lung vaping. The primary coil is made with the stainless steel mesh and makes for comfortable direct-lung vaping. Mesh “coils” have multiple advantages that contribute to a superior vape experience.

    Mesh is generally superior to round wire for several reasons. Being flat and thin, the mesh covers more area than round wire. This means the heating area is less concentrated, which reduces the occurrence of dry hits. Additionally, it provides better flavor and more consistent vapor due to a larger surface area. Since the mesh is thinner than round wire, it also heats up more quickly. As such, ramp-up time is virtually nonexistent, even at lower wattages.

    Cumulatively, this results in a wide range of viable operating wattages and better flavor and vapor production with no ramp-up time. The improvements are admittedly nuanced but noticeable and perfect for pod systems. Being able to reduce the power output of the device without a significant impact to the overall vape quality means that the battery is less taxed and will last longer.

    The NexMESH has an internal 1200 mAh battery, which is significant for a pod system. Depending on the power setting, this can last from half a day to two days of constant use. The NexMESH can be adjusted from 5 watts to 30 watts, but both the round wire and mesh coil types work best between 12 watts and 25 watts, which leaves some headroom on either end. The device is charged with the included micro-USB cable and can achieve a full charge in approximately two hours, perhaps fewer if the battery is not completely depleted.

    Each NexMESH coil head screws into a base unit where the user can adjust airflow by rotating a small ring. Once the coil is attached and the airflow is set, the assembly slides into the bottom of the pod. The pod is filled by removing the silicone plug on the side of the pod.

    The plug is easily removed, but the fill port is relatively small and is best suited for e-liquid bottles with needle or narrow tips. As is the standard, it is recommended to let the full pod rest for at least five minutes before use to ensure that the wicking material is completely saturated. Once ready, the entire pod assembly slides into the opening at the top of the device and is held in place securely with magnets.

    The airflow path starts at the top of the pod next to the mouthpiece, but it’s never impeded by the user’s mouth while in use. The airflow is consistently smooth with minimal turbulence, and there is no spitback. Coupled with the fact that there is no ramp-up time when using the mesh coils, the overall vape experience is fantastic. Vapor is produced easily with varying heat levels depending on the wattage setting, and the airflow is smooth.

    All different e-liquid types are viable with the NexMESH, but some considerations need to be considered. When lung hitting with the mesh coils, users should avoid e-liquids with high nicotine concentrations. Also, thick liquids may not wick fast enough at high wattages when using the round wire coils. Apart from these extremes, most liquids will work perfectly, which sets up the NexMESH to be a great device for many types of vape styles.

    There are many pod systems on the market these days, and it can be difficult to stand out. However, a quality vape experience is more important than making a splash, and the NexMESH is among the best in terms of both flavor and vapor production.

    While the amount of vapor is more than reasonable, it’s the ease at which the vapor is produced that really makes the NexMESH impressive. The mesh coils allow for a range of temperatures without sacrificing flavor or vapor volume, and it can’t be understated how much of a difference mesh can make.

    Most new vapers nowadays tend to start the vaping journey with a pod system that closely represents the smoking experience, and the NexMESH can provide that with the round wire coils. Generally, moving to upgrade involves an entirely new device, but the NexMESH includes the “upgrade” right out of the box with the mesh coil.

    It allows new users to experience high-quality mouth-to-lung vaping as well as direct-lung vaping without having to make the choice between two different devices on the spot. This level of versatility is a huge selling point, especially for beginners who are unsure of what vaping style they prefer.

    The only things standing in the way of the NexMESH being a sure thing for new customers are the fact that it doesn’t resemble an analog cigarette in any way and that it doesn’t have a draw-activated switch. While this may dissuade the most stubborn of clientele, it is far outweighed by the versatility and quality of the device.

    Often, this fact can turn a sale when communicated effectively. Most vapers find that a better vape experience is preferable to a replication of the look and feel of smoking an analog cigarette. Too many features are compromised in the pursuit of the perfect cigalike, but sometimes this must be experienced rather than told. However, most reasonable people are more than willing to heed the advice of experienced vapers.

    Overall, the NexMESH offers quite a bit for vapers of all levels and types. Even more enthusiast vapers are being won over by the convenience of pod systems, making features such as mesh coil heads even more appealing. Being a small device with great battery life, advanced users will find that they need not sacrifice quality in order to have a vape that’s more convenient and portable.

    Smok and OFRF have undoubtedly succeeded in creating a pod system that has the potential to appeal to a wide market. It’s easy to use, caters to multiple vape styles, is small and portable and has great battery life. Vapers of all levels can find something to love about the NexMESH, and even as a first device, new vapers that can forego the look of a traditional cigarette will find that vaping doesn’t need to be a precise reproduction of smoking in order to be satisfying. In a time when prefilled pods are on the way out, many are looking for newer and better options, and the NexMESH provides everything that other pod systems can and more.

  • A Love Story

    A Love Story

    Everyone can find something to love about Innokin’s new Ares 2 RTA rebuildable tank from Phil Busardo and Dimitris Agrafiotis.

    By Mike Huml

    The Ares 2 RTA is the latest rebuildable tank from Innokin. With input from avid mouth-to-lung (MTL) vapers Phil Busardo and Dimitris Agrafiotis, the Ares 2 provides one of the best MTL vape experiences possible. With the popularity of rebuildables, and subsequently sub-ohm tanks followed by pod systems, many more advanced vapers who preferred MTL vaping were left with very few options. Today, the Ares 2 stands out as the pinnacle of MTL vaping for intermediate to advanced vapers.

    Historically, rebuildable atomizers have generally been considered a cloud-chaser’s game. While it is true that most rebuildables are intended for lung hits, huge airflow and massive vapor production, there are many who prefer MTL vaping but still want to gain the advantages of rebuilding. These include cheaper upkeep, a more customizable vape experience and generally improved flavor. Additionally, many prefer the ability to pair a 510 atomizer with a multitude of mods rather than be limited to the proprietary ecosystems provided by pod systems. The Ares 2 was created to fill the needs of these vapers and is largely successful in doing so.

    The Ares 2 features a 2 mL reservoir and a wide range of airflow options. Many atomizers that claim to allow MTL vaping end up falling short due to compromises in airflow. MTL atomizers work best when the entire airflow chain is consistent rather than utilizing the adjustable airflow alone to restrict the airflow. The latter causes vapor production and flavor to be poor and the throat hit to be too harsh. The Ares 2 allows for adjustments to be made to the internal airflow underneath the coil as well as to the external airflow.

    As a result, the Ares 2 could allow for restricted lung hits as well as MTL vaping without compromising vapor, flavor or throat hit. The internal adjustment is made by using the included screwdriver to rotate the ring that sits underneath the coil. While this may seem slightly obtuse, it effectively prevents accidental adjustments. The internal airflow is meant to be a “set-and-forget” adjustment, and while it might be odd, it’s also an ingenious solution to an underrated problem for many MTL vapers.

    The Ares 2 is filled from the top by simply sliding the entire top cap in the direction indicated next to the mouthpiece. This reveals the fill port, which is sealed with silicone flaps. These flaps maintain pressure within the tank to ensure that open pressure does not cause liquid to flood the coil chamber. The tip of the e-liquid bottle splits the flaps and allows air to escape while filling, which prevents the e-liquid from backing up and overflowing. It’s a simple but elegant filling system that works perfectly.

    While the Ares 2 comes with several premade coils, many will choose this tank to build their own coils. With the tools provided in the box, wrapping a coil is extremely easy, and installation is specifically designed to be as painless as possible. The coil is to be wrapped with a lead facing in either direction. The post screws on the deck are then loosened, the coil laid in and the screws tightened. The wicking material, preferably cotton, is then threaded and the ends trimmed to a length where they just barely contact the base. These are then inserted into the juice-flow holes. All that remains is to saturate and prime the wick, reassemble the tank and fill it up. While nothing fancy, the deck is one of the most forgiving on which to build a coil. This makes it the ideal tank for those new to rebuilding. While brand-new vapers will want to start with something nonrebuildable, the Ares 2 can make for an excellent second step into the vaping world.

    The package comes with one of the most comprehensive tool kits to ever be included with a tank. Replacement tinted glass and replacement O-rings, gaskets and screws are all included. The replacement O-rings are multicolored, so they can be changed out due to the original O-rings getting lost or worn out or simply for a change in color. For rebuilding, the Ares 2 comes with two premade coils. These are 1-ohm, 26-gauge Kanthal coils. Additionally, one meter of 26-gauge Kanthal wire is included as well as a sheet of organic Japanese cotton.

    Lastly, two building tools and a double-ended screwdriver are also included. The screwdriver has a flat head on one side and a Phillips head on the other, but it’s the building tools that are unique. One, marked as “Phil’s Build Tool,” has a smooth 3 mm diameter rod on one side and a 2.5 mm rod on the other. This is perfect for building contact coils but can also be used to build spaced coils. However, the other tool, labeled “Dimi’s Build Tool,” is better for this application. Dimi’s tool has threading to ensure perfect spacing, and each side facilitates wrapping in opposite directions. For the Ares 2, using the side marked “R” is preferred as this will ensure that the leads are in the proper position in relation to the post terminals.

    No matter what type of coil is used in the Ares 2, it’s important to push the coil down with a tool as much as possible. A steel bridge ensures that the coil cannot be pressed so far down as to make contact with any of the metal on the deck. However, if the coil is not pressed down and aligned properly, it runs the risk of contacting the top of the bell and shorting out. Getting the coil as close to the airflow as possible is generally considered best practice when it comes to installing coils anyway, but the Ares 2 makes it foolproof.

    Two mouthpieces are also included. One is black plastic and must be removed to slide open the top cap when refilling. The other is stainless steel and can remain attached when refilling. These can be changed purely based on personal preference. Both are extremely comfortable without being too long, and neither are too narrow that it causes accumulation and spitback, which generally isn’t as much of a problem with MTL vaping as it is with direct-lung vaping.

    The result of the build is a smooth, quiet draw with airflow that can be adjusted to each vaper’s liking. With all the airflow closed, the draw is almost nonexistent. While vaping in this way is not recommended, it does demonstrate the quality and precision of the Ares 2. With the smallest airflow hole open, the draw is tight, which is great for vapers seeking the most analog-accurate vaping experience. At its most open, the Ares 2 is capable of restricted lung hits comparable to a Kayfun V5 or many pod systems.

    Due to the nature of the wicking system and airflow, any e-liquid can be used. On one end of the spectrum, the Ares 2 can be built using looser wicking and maximum airflow in order to use e-liquid with a higher VG component to get flavorful restricted lung hits. On the other hand, airflow can be minimized and more wicking can be used to facilitate the use of thinner liquid or even high-nicotine liquids and nicotine salts to get a true smoking experience. Either route can be taken with no compromises.

    In addition to the inherent versatility of being rebuildable, the Ares 2 has a standard 510 connection, so it can be paired with any mod or device that is compatible with atomizers that have a diameter of 24 millimeters or more. Most modern 510 mod or battery will fit this description, which leaves a near-limitless number of options open to pair with the Ares 2.

    Mouth-to-lung vaping is not as much of a niche as it was several years ago. Pod systems have introduced many people to vaping, and a good number continue to upgrade as new products are made available or their old setups wear out. With the Ares 2, vapers such as these now have a rebuildable option without having to switch over to direct-lung vaping.

    Not everyone has the desire to turn vaping into a full-blown hobby, but many still want a better vaping experience, and the Ares 2 is the best option. Not only does it provide arguably the best MTL experience possible, but it’s easy to use, customizable and versatile. Not to mention it comes with everything needed to build and install coils save for scissors.

    Adding the Innokin Ares 2 to any product offering is undoubtedly a wise move. It’s a fantastic product on its own, but there are very few atomizers that are similar, let alone in the $30 to $40 price range. Anyone coming from pod systems can find something to love about the Ares 2, but advanced vapers looking to get a quality MTL vape can’t go wrong either. Innokin has never been a cloud-chaser’s brand, but it is renowned for its quality and reliability—two attributes exemplified by the Ares 2 RTA.

  • Rise and Shine

    Rise and Shine

    Credit: Suorin

    The Suorin Shine pod system works well, is easy to use and doesn’t break the bank.

    By Mike Huml

    The Shine is the latest pod system from Suorin, which also created the acclaimed Air pod system. The Air was notable for its overall vape quality but stood out from other pod systems with its super thin design. The Shine retains the pragmatic, simple features of the Air but with a more traditional pod system aesthetic. Several improvements to the traditional pod system design ensure that the Shine is meeting the needs of today’s vapers while retaining a familiar shape and function.

    Suorin’s Shine feels remarkably familiar for anyone who has used a pod system in recent years. It’s extremely easy to use, with the pod simply sliding into the top and holding in place securely with magnets. Being refillable, each pod has a small silicone plug on the side and each pod can hold two milliliters of e-liquid. The battery is a moderate size but can still be held and used similarly to a traditional cigarette—an important feature for those who have recently switched over from smoking.

    A single button lies on the face of the battery, which can be used to power the Shine on or off but can also be used as a manual fire button. The battery capacity is impressive, particularly for a pod system. 700 mAh lasts a good while, especially combined with the optimally efficient one-ohm resistance pods. Lastly, the overall design is unassuming, simple and sleek with a single LED on the tip to indicate that the device is firing and to display approximate remaining battery life.

    The size of the Shine is well deserved. It’s larger than something like the Juul by a good margin, but it’s nowhere near being bulky or inconvenient. With that extra size comes a larger juice capacity and a substantial battery capacity increase. Additionally, weight is kept to an absolute minimum with a construction that relies on aluminum and plastic. While too much plastic can conjure images of poor quality, the Shine makes use of it brilliantly.

    A dark, translucent plastic runs all around the outer rim of the device, with aluminum plates on each face. Again, simplicity lends itself extremely well to the overall design of the Shine. It looks great, and it allows the Shine to have all the benefits of a medium-sized pod system without the weight.

    In terms of performance, the Shine is no slouch. While the draw leans toward the airier side, the flavor does not suffer whatsoever. Vapor production is top-notch and can compete with the best mouth-to-lung vapes on the market. The vapor comes easily, and it never feels anemic or unsatisfying. The Shine outputs a constant 13 watts of power when utilizing the automatic switch, but when using the manual fire button, the Shine boosts to the full 15-watt output.

    It’s not a huge difference, but that extra power can come in handy in certain situations, such as when a pod is on its way out. In this case, flavor and vapor production can be diminished, and rather than wasting whatever juice is left in the pod, the manual button can be used to get the last little bit of performance out of a dying coil.

    Alternatively, many vapers prefer the manual button, and there’s nothing wrong with using it all the time. In fact, the Shine caters to two completely different vape styles. It can be used between the fingers with an automatic draw or held with one’s thumb on the button, more like a mod. It also has enough airflow, power and battery life to support restricted lung hits, and being refillable, lower nicotine strengths can be used for this purpose. On the other hand, mouth-to-lung vaping with higher nicotine e-liquids is also perfectly viable, and neither style suffers as a result of the other.

    It should also be noted that the Shine doesn’t tend to leak or cause spitback. As pod systems evolve, these problems occur less and less, but given that these issues are a major turnoff for new vapers, rest assured that with the Shine, the only problem new vapers will need to contend with is which flavor to use. With the recent banning of flavored closed-system pods, one of the major advantages of the Shine is that it’s refillable. In addition to saving money due to getting more than one fill out of a pod, vapers now get to select from the entire wide range of flavors available from countless e-liquid manufacturers rather than having to rely on the select few generally available in closed systems. Flavor plays a major part in the success of vaping, and as such, this advantage cannot be overstated.

    Although the Shine utilizes a micro-USB charging port in lieu of the newer USB-C, it still charges from empty to full capacity in just under one hour. Considering the battery capacity, only one charge per day should be necessary. However, when that charge needs to occur, the inconvenience is minimal, and the Shine can still be used while it’s being charged. The LED indicator lights up when the fire button is pressed, or when a drag is taken. The LED will display green when the battery is above 70 percent capacity, red when it’s below 30 percent capacity, and blue anywhere in between. Like everything about the Shine, it’s simple and it works.

    The 1 ohm coils used in each pod maximize both power and battery life. As coil resistance increases, the voltage required to power that coil increases, which causes the battery to drain faster with each drag. Conversely, as the resistance of the coil falls below 1 ohm, the amperage draw required from the battery increases exponentially.

    One ohm is the most efficient resistance possible as it maximizes power output while balancing voltage output and amperage draw perfectly. It’s a smart decision, and given the nature of pod systems, it’s curious that other manufacturers would use anything other than 1 ohm coils in their pods.

    When it comes to the price, the Suorin Shine is highly competitive, running about $20 to $25 at retail. This includes the battery, the charging cable and two empty pods. Replacement pods are available in packs of three and cost about $10. Given that Suorin recommends changing out the pod after five refills, each pod can average about one week of use.

    E-liquid prices vary, but in general, salt-based e-liquid costs between $12 and $20 for a 30 mL bottle. Do the math, and that means about $50 as an initial investment and $50 to $100 per month as upkeep. That’s noticeably less than using a closed system and vastly less expensive than smoking. For a product as good as the Suorin Shine, that’s a steal for the end user.

    The Suorin Shine is perfect in almost every way. If there is one small gripe to be had, it’s that the silicone plug for the fill port can be difficult to remove for filling. Given the alternative, a finicky port plug is better than leaking, but something a little more tangible to grab onto would have been nice. However, nothing is perfect, and given all the other features that make the Shine a great choice, the silicone plug is an afterthought.

    The Suorin Shine is exactly the type of pod system that vapers need right now. It’s refillable in order to get around those pesky flavor bans for closed systems. It can be used like a traditional cigarette or more like a mod, favoring smokers, new vapers and veterans alike. It opens options by allowing the use of any e-liquid instead of only a select few.

    The design is simple but still looks great and functions exactly as intended. The vape quality is top-notch in terms of both flavor and vapor production. It’s large enough for a day’s worth of battery life and e-liquid but remains light enough to be carried around in a pocket with no added bulk. Finally, the price is more than reasonable considering the performance and what is included in the kit.

    Most new vapers would say that, as customers, they are looking for something that works well, is easy to use and is inexpensive. The Suorin Shine checks all those boxes. It has the potential to appeal to a wide market with multiple vape styles and a variety of needs without breaking the bank. Plus, with so many people losing access to the flavors that kept them from smoking, the Suorin Shine is positioned to fill that need perfectly.

    In all areas, this is an improvement over most closed-system pods yet it remains simple enough for new vapers with minimal learning curve. Suorin really did a great job taking what people expect out of a pod system and elevating it to the next level. Fancy features won’t do a lot of good if they alienate the target market, and the Shine simply improves upon existing technology, making it accessible while still offering a truly next-gen vapor product.

  • Multiple Personalities

    Multiple Personalities

    The market for disposable vapor products is surprisingly diverse.

    By Mike Huml

    It’s one of the fastest-growing segments of the vapor industry. Disposable products that once collected dust on store shelves are now finding a growing fan base. With so many on the market, it’s easy for distributors and retailers alike to get caught up in the confusion. We decided to review some of the more popular brands to help our readers see some of the differences in a product segment where everything can seem the same. As it turns out, however, each product has its own personality. Almost every disposable device we tested had something that made it just a little different than its competition.

    The Leap Go

    “The Cigalike-alike”

    The Leap Go disposable vapes closely to a traditional analog cigarette. The draw is tight but smooth, reminiscent more of a full-flavor than a light or ultra-light smoke. The size is more akin to a 100 mm cigarette with slightly more weight.

    At 5 percent nicotine, the Leap Go should more than satisfy those switching from smoking or anybody who prefers high nicotine strengths or nicotine salts. The vapor is light but still flavorful and satisfying. Each Leap Go device can last for approximately 200 puffs, which is about the equivalent of one pack of traditional cigarettes, assuming ten puffs per cigarette and twenty cigarettes per pack.

    There are no unappealing surprises to speak of, such as leaking, gurgling or dry hits. Everything works as intended. The Leap Go is about as unassuming as it gets, replicating the look, feel and draw of an analog cigarette. For those looking to try out vaping with no baggage or hassle, the Leap Go is a great option. There’s no refilling or charging to worry about, no replacement pods or coils and no worries. Simply pull it out of the box, remove the silicone stoppers and it’s good to go.

    The Leap Go is positioned to be an introductory device, making the transition from smoking to vaping as seamless as possible, and on that front it succeeds. While more advanced devices or even other disposables may boast slightly increased performance, few can capture the feel of smoking as accurately as the Leap Go. It may not appeal to many vapers, but as a tool to ease smokers into vaping it succeeds tremendously.

    Cigalikes have fallen out of favor over the years due in large part to the popularity of pod systems. The Leap Go is a neat callback to the early days of vaping without the hassle of leaky cartridges and dead atomizers. It’s a cool nostalgia trip for vapers but still a very relevant step for many smokers in today’s vaping landscape. It’s interesting to think that lives may literally be saved due to just one disposable e-cigarette taking a step back and returning to roots of how vaping all started.

    Cali Air

    “Intensity Squared”

    The Cali Air disposable deviates from the traditional cigarette shape significantly. It’s a flat e-cigarette that’s about one inch wide, two inches tall and less than a quarter-inch deep. It’s smaller than a business card but packs a punch.

    A disposable product, there is no refilling or recharging necessary. A pair of silicone covers must be removed before use and then it’s all ready to vape. What would be considered the “mouthpiece” lies at the top corner of the Air, which makes it extremely comfortable to use especially for anyone who isn’t used to large mouthpieces or drip tips. Having the airflow hole at the corner rather than in the middle helps to make the Cali Air feel a bit more familiar and less like sucking on a credit card.

    The flat shape not only makes the Cali Air easy to carry around but makes it comfortable to hold as well. It won’t convince anybody that it’s an actual cigarette, but it feels good in a different way. The majority of the Cali Air is made of anodized aluminum, so it’s slightly textured and light.

    The draw is fairly tight, and the flavor is pretty intense making for a great vaping experience. There is no leaking or gurgling, and the draw is smooth. It has a familiar feel to many of the better pod systems on the market and may be better suited to current vapers rather than those making the switch from smoking.

    The Cali Air contains 2.7 mL of e-liquid, but the puff count is what matters most with disposables given they can’t be charged or refilled. The Cali Air lasts for approximately 500 puffs, which equates to about 2 1/2 packs of analog cigarettes. At a nicotine strength of 5 percent, this should satisfy most anyone for at least two days.

    With a larger capacity and battery, the larger size is necessary to accommodate the increased performance, but the nontraditional shape keeps the Cali Air from being bulky or unwieldy. If longevity and performance are more important than an accurate tactile representation of an analog cigarette, the Cali Air is a fantastic choice.

    Bidi Stick

    “I Only Smoke When I Drink”

    The Bidi Stick is very similar to today’s popular pod systems. Its long, flat shape allows it to be used like an analog cigarette, but it looks nothing like one. It’s slimmer and longer than the Juul, with a similar light weight. Unlike modern pod systems, it’s one single piece that cannot be refilled or recharged, making it about as simple as a vape can get.

    The body is a slightly rubberized texture with a soft plastic mouthpiece. It’s light, slim and perfect for taking on the go. A single LED on the end of the Bidi Stick lights up when activated to give a nice visual representation that the automatic switch is doing its job.

    The draw is medium-tight and should appeal to most people, and it’s not too airy to diminish the flavor. It’s a good balance, being that the flavor is intentionally light and refreshing. That’s not to say that it doesn’t produce good vapor, because it does, but many liquids are loaded with too much flavor and sweetener, which can prematurely kill a coil and lead to poor flavor and vapor production. Subtle flavors are all-too-often underrated, and it’s surprising to find these flavors in a disposable e-cigarette.

    Each Bidi Stick contains 1.4 mL of e-liquid at a strength of 6 percent, which is higher than average. Nonetheless, one would assume that the Bidi Stick is equivalent to a pack-and-a-half of cigarettes, which is about a day-and-a-half of normal use. However, the packaging suggests that each Bidi Stick should last one week.

    Conclusion: This is a great disposable for light smokers or vapers. The high nicotine means that fewer puffs are required to reach nicotine satisfaction, and the light flavor speaks to the vaper who wants something nice and refreshing every now and again. That said, there’s nothing really keeping anyone from using several Bidi Sticks per week, but if 300 puffs per week is the recommendation, it’s clear that this is intended more for nonregular users.

    With that in mind, the Bidi Stick may be the best option for occasional nicotine users for all the reasons above. It requires fewer puffs to get the same amount of nicotine, and the flavor is light as to not be offensive or overwhelming. The throat hit is also smooth and not boosted with the addition of menthol.

    The Bidi Stick appeals to possibly the most overlooked nicotine user—the social smoker. They exist, and the Bidi Stick proves that they are not forgotten.

    Hyde

    “The Caricature”

    The Hyde is very similar to a standard pod system with one exception: It’s a one-piece disposable. No refilling and no charging are necessary, but the shape and size could pass for a standard pod system aside from the color. The Hyde has a black, plastic mouthpiece and white body that fades into red with a faux spray paint look. Its appearance is a little edgier and bolder compared to some of the more subdued aesthetics of its counterparts, but it could appeal to some. If the look doesn’t, the performance surely will.

    The Hyde’s draw is fairly tight, which contributes to the fantastic flavor and dense vapor production. It feels much like a full-flavor analog cigarette. It’s extremely lightweight and somewhat shorter than expected for a device of this nature. It lends itself well to hands-free vaping.

    The Hyde includes a white LED at the tip that shines through the red coloring to give a certain red glow that imitates a lit cigarette. The white and red colors of the body combined with the illumination make the Hyde appear almost as a caricature of an analog cigarette in a way that might make the foreign concept of vaping a little more familiar for smokers.

    There is no estimated puff limit on the packaging, but the mouthpiece is translucent so that the user can actually see how much liquid is remaining. The Hyde holds 1.5–2 mL of e-liquid, which would put it somewhere in the 300–400 puff range. With a nicotine strength of 5 percent, each Hyde unit is equivalent to a pack or pack-and-a-half of analog cigarettes, which is pretty standard.

    What really sets the Hyde apart is the performance. While it’s aesthetic could arguably be the gaudiest of the bunch, looks can be deceiving. Vaping the Hyde is an absolute joy with its smooth draw, clean flavor and impressive vapor production. While the draw isn’t turbulent in the least, the heating element does give off a slight crackle as the e-liquid is heated. While a matter of personal preference, this generally adds to the satisfaction of vaping, and smoking for that matter.

    Overall, the Hyde might be the most divisive-looking disposable, but it more than makes up for that in pure vape quality.

    Hyppe Bar/Puff Bar

    “The Twins”

    The Hyppe Bar and Puff Bar are very straightforward even as far as disposables go. The “Bar” part of their names is accurate—they simply look like bars. They are relatively small but angular and polygonal. There is no separate look for the mouthpiece, and an arrow is printed on each device (as well as the flavor, nicotine strength, etc.) to indicate which side is the mouthpiece. The coating is matte and slightly rubberized in a single color that really does bring one word to mind: bar.

    Performance-wise, the Hyppe Bar and Puff Bar are suited for those who prefer lighter flavor without sacrificing vapor production. It’s a medium-airy draw that works best with faster drags, which is perfect for smokers. It’s a welcome change for vapers as well, who have largely been conditioned over the years to adopt a slow-and-steady drag.

    A blue LED on the tip lights up when a drag is taken, but it’s not visible to the vaper when in use, acting only as a cosmetic feature to observers. It’s not exactly necessary, but nothing is lost with this addition either.

    The Hyppe Bar has the most information packaging, which shouldn’t go unnoticed. There are product specifications so there’s no guessing—it holds 1.3 mL of 5 percent e-liquid with a 280 mAh battery that’s good for up to 300 puffs.

    It also features a scratch-and-scan sticker to verify authenticity and an enclosed underage vaping warning card. The Puff Bar is very similar, lacking only the battery capacity rating and the included warning card.

    Both the Hyppe Bar and the Puff Bar vape very well, with voluminous vapor and light, refreshing flavors. So why are these two products so eerily similar? It’s unclear, but it’s likely the case that these are both produced by the same manufacturer and have been customized and branded by different wholesalers or retailers. This is common practice in many industries, including vaping, and shouldn’t dissuade a purchase. Both brands of the “bar-style” disposable work well and identically. They’re simple, colorful, lightweight and refreshing. The Hyppe and Puff Bars are both solid options in terms of disposable e-cigarettes, regarding both performance and aesthetic.

    Pop

    “Vapeable Sunshine”

    The Pop disposable e-cigarette is another bar-style vape but with some differences that make it clear that its different from both the Hyppe Bar and the Puff Bar. Aside from more colorful packaging, there are a few visual differences that set it apart. The blue LED on the tip still illuminates when a drag is taken, but the airflow hole in the mouthpiece is slightly larger making for an airier draw. In lieu of a rubberized matte coating, the Pop is shrouded in a colorful wrap that matches the packaging and corresponds to the flavor. It’s reminiscent of wallpaper, in a comforting country-home type of way.

    According to the packaging, the Pop holds 1.2 mL of 5 percent-strength e-liquid and is usable up to 400 puffs. Compared to the size and puff count of similar disposables, this likely means a higher coil resistance. As such, the Pop is gaining a bit of longevity but losing a bit in terms of performance. That’s not to say that performance is poor but simply that the design is different. The Pop produces equal vapor compared to similar disposable devices, but this is due to slightly increased airflow. A higher coil resistance results in less liquid and battery power being used with each puff, as well as lighter flavor, but it has the potential to last longer.

    The Pop definitely takes a different approach when it comes to how an e-cigarette should look. While many shoot for sleek and unassuming, the Pop has opted for bold, colorful and fun, and not in a way that could be construed as marketing to children. Many would shy away from overly colorful packaging, but the Pop does it tastefully and doesn’t rely solely on looks. The performance is still there, and users can feel justified in their purchase.

    Overall, the performance of the Pop is surprisingly good. Like some others, it’s light, refreshing, easy to use and extremely portable—everything a disposable e-cigarette should be. This type of disposable is great for light users, new vapers or social nicotine users. It works well, there’s no hassle, it is widely available and tends toward the lighter, airier, more refreshing end of the spectrum rather than the more intense side. The Pop is colorful and fun, exemplifying a no-worries mindset that its performance reinforces.

  • Excellent Examples

    Excellent Examples
    Rather than imposing new features into a familiar system, the SnowPlus line offers both new and improved and tried and true variants of the same system.

    By Mike Huml

    As the popularity of pod-style vaporizers and e-cigarettes continues to rise despite regulation, many newcomers to the vapor industry are materializing. SnowPlus is one such company, with an offering of two different pod systems in the SnowPlus line. While similar, each system offers its own set of benefits and drawbacks, depending on personal preference. Both the SnowPlus Pro and SnowPlus Lite are outstanding examples of what a pod system should be, offering convenience and performance with minor tweaks to suit many types of vapers.

    The SnowPlus line consists of the flagship SnowPlus Pro and the slightly smaller SnowPlus Lite. While the SnowPlus Lite represents the pinnacle of current vapor technology, the SnowPlus Pro pushes the boundaries with features like haptic feedback and fast USB Type-C charging. Both are compatible with all the pods that SnowPlus offers and are capable of standing on their own merit in terms of quality.

    So, what makes them different? The SnowPlus Pro is generally more robust. It’s heavier, longer and has a larger battery capacity at 450 mAh. It features a “soft-touch” coating that feels somewhat like a hybrid of rubber and metal. It’s durable and able to withstand above-average wear and tear without so much as a scratch. It also features haptic feedback, with a quick vibration indicating that a new pod has been successfully installed. The SnowPlus Pro is also one of the only pod systems on the market to incorporate USB Type-C charging.

    While this has been a common feature on mobile phones and other technologies for several years, the vapor industry always seems to lag a bit. Not only can the USB charger be inserted in either direction as the charging port and connector are symmetrical, but it can also charge a fully depleted battery to a full charge in under twenty minutes.

    That’s impressive considering most pod systems still using micro-USB connections can take up to an hour to charge even with smaller battery capacity. This is a huge upgrade for anyone who’s ever had to charge their battery halfway through the day. A full charge can be achieved on a lunch break or during a daily commute—anywhere there is an open USB port to utilize. In terms of vaping quality, the SnowPlus Pro has a significantly more open airflow compared to the SnowPlus Lite but is otherwise very similar in terms of vapor production and throat hit.

    The SnowPlus Lite doesn’t have all the bells and whistles that the SnowPlus Pro has, but what it lacks in cutting-edge technology, it makes up for with convenience and portability. That’s not to say that the SnowPlus Pro isn’t portable, but the SnowPlus Lite is naturally lighter, shorter and has a 400 mAh battery. The 50 mAh deficit in battery life is not particularly significant, but the weight surely is.

    This variant is much more akin to other common pod systems, and this is due mainly to the use of aluminum rather than zinc in the manufacturing of the body. Rather than a soft-touch coating, the SnowPlus Lite features the more common anodized coating that’s found in many other vapor products.

    The charging port utilizes a micro-USB connector, so charging times are more in line with what can already be found on the market. A full charge is expected to take between 45 minutes and one hour. Additionally, the haptic feedback is absent on the SnowPlus Lite, and the airflow is noticeably more restricted than the SnowPlus Pro.

    As mentioned above, both models use the same pods, of which several varieties are available. All pods contain 1.5 mL of e-liquid, which is on the larger end of the spectrum when it comes to pod systems, and all are installed by easily sliding the pod into the top of the battery. A magnet holds the pod in place securely, and an LED on the battery activates to confirm that a connection has been made.

    The classic pods are available in multiple flavors, with classic tobacco and mint available in 5 percent strength. Other fruity and beverage-type flavors are available in 3 percent strength, but that’s largely irrelevant now that these flavors are illegal to sell within the U.S. However, SnowPlus ships internationally from China, so the end user may still be able to purchase these flavors directly.

    Unlike many other pod systems, SnowPlus also offers a nicotine-free line with extracted caffeine. These flavors are based on coffee, tea and other caffeinated beverages. While it’s refreshing to see a 0 percent option, it would be better if some were offered without nicotine or caffeine and particularly if a tobacco-flavored option was offered for the U.S. market. Again, at the time of this writing, direct ordering of nontobacco flavors is an option.

    Finally, and perhaps most uniquely, is the “smokeless” line of pods. As any vaper knows, all vapor products are smokeless, but what SnowPlus is trying to imply is that these pods are vaporless, and yes, classic tobacco is an available flavor. These are available in a nicotine strength of 1.5 percent and are perfect for discreetly vaping in places where clouds of vapor would be irritating to others or inappropriate in general.

    Historically, vaporless e-liquid is appealing to a very niche market, but the option is very much appreciated. Vaporless e-liquid is more often used by vapers as needed rather than being the primary preference, meaning that it can be appealing to every SnowPlus user but not for every situation. After all, much of the appeal of vaping stems from its similarity to smoking, and without vapor on the exhale, the experience can feel lacking.

    Overall, the pod selection is vast, but filling out each line to include every nicotine strength in every flavor, including classic tobacco, would be a welcome improvement. Many pod systems simply do not offer a way to decrease nicotine consumption if the goal is to wean oneself off nicotine completely.

    If SnowPlus even were to offer their classic pods in the four strengths already available—0 percent, 1.5 percent, 3 percent and 5 percent—this would offer a linear decrease in nicotine strength that isn’t generally seen in pod systems. Given this criticism, SnowPlus does seem to offer the most choices when it comes to nicotine strength compared to the competition, and if taken further, it could be a great model for other manufacturers of pod systems to follow.

    When it comes to the actual vaping quality of the pods, SnowPlus is among the best. Each pod uses a ceramic heating element rather than the more traditional wick and wire. On paper, this produces a better throat hit and better nicotine absorption due to finer vapor particles. In practice, this isn’t very noticeable, and the true benefit to this wicking and heating system is consistency.

    These pods do not leak or gurgle, and they produce consistent vapor from start to finish, which are perhaps the biggest benefits of ceramic. Remember, pod systems appeal to new users and nonenthusiasts because of their simplicity and effectiveness. Leaking or spitback are among the most common turnoffs for new vapers and can be the sole reason a person can’t stick with vaping. It’s a small thing, but the ramifications shouldn’t be discounted or underestimated.

    The SnowPlus Pro offers an airier draw that allows for quick drags without sacrificing vapor production while the SnowPlus Lite features a tighter draw more reminiscent of a full-flavor analog cigarette. Both benefit from a quick primer puff to activate the automatic switch and make sure the heating element is producing vapor for the entirety of the drag.

    As with any pod system, it takes a few drags to acclimate, but beyond that, the learning curve is nonexistent. The airflow is smooth, and the vapor is produced easily, but the difference in airflow between the SnowPlus Pro and SnowPlus Lite is significant, and each user will have his or her preference as to which is better.

    Overall, both the SnowPlus Pro and SnowPlus Lite are great for what they are. The SnowPlus Lite plays it safe and doesn’t offer anything out of the ordinary but can hold its own against the best pod systems currently available. It’s familiar and appealing to anyone who is comfortable using a pod system.

    The SnowPlus pro pushes some new technology, and while innovations like haptic feedback aren’t particularly useful (albeit new and interesting), USB Type-C charging is a minor godsend. As other technologies adopt USB Type-C, spare micro-USB cables are becoming rarer and rarer. It’s nice to be able to charge a pod battery and a cell phone with the same cable, not to mention the vastly improved charging time.

    Rather than imposing new features into a familiar system, SnowPlus has simply offered both new and improved and tried and true variants of the same system, and it’s the smart play. New technology can appear to be gimmicky until widespread adoption takes place, but that should never stifle innovation.

    The SnowPlus Pro and SnowPlus Lite are both worth carrying for this reason. Both are quality vapor products that have much to offer despite both the innovation and familiarity of the SnowPlus Pro and SnowPlus Lite, respectively. People are still in the market for new pod systems even with the restricted flavor availability, and now could be an opportune time to highlight quality and innovation to try to fill that void.

    Picture of Mike Huml

    Mike Huml

    Mike Huml has been vaping since 2009 and has been working in the vapor industry for more than five years. He has extensive experience in various industry segments, including purchasing, quality assurance and content creation.

  • More Pod Than Mod

    More Pod Than Mod

    More Pod Than Mod

    The Grimm Kit by Hellvape appeals to intermediate and advanced vapers looking for alternatives.

    By Mike Huml

    With the recently announced ban of flavors in closed system vapor products, store owners and consumers will both need to adapt. Refillable pods are about to see a jump in popularity given that this will become the most convenient and simple way to vape with flavored e-liquid. As closed system manufacturers adapt, refillable pods for previously closed systems are likely on the way. In the meantime, many refillable pods already exist, and one of the best is the Grimm Kit from Hellvape.

    This refillable pod-AIO hybrid was designed by GrimmGreen and OhmBoyOC and has the potential to not only appeal to a wide market but also fill a need for quality open systems. Everything about the Grimm Kit is simple and effective from its aesthetic to its vape quality. Perhaps most importantly, any flavored e-liquid can be used.

    The Grimm Kit is more akin to a small box mod rather than a large pod system. Not only can the pod be refilled, but the coil can be replaced as well. This makes the “pod” more like a tank that uses a proprietary connection. It’s much like an AIO except that the tank can be removed. It’s an interesting amalgamation of many product types that has the potential to see wide appeal among all types of vapers. It can be used for either restricted lung hits or mouth-to-lung drags. It has a variety of airflow options, and any type of e-liquid is compatible whether it’s VG-heavy, PG-heavy, high strength, low strength, nic-salt or freebase nicotine; it all works flawlessly.

    Two coils are available. The mesh coil has slightly more open airflow, can handle more power and is perfect for restricted lung hits. The wire coil is designed for lower power and has a tighter airflow conducive to mouth-to-lung vaping. Each coil’s airflow can be fine-tuned by adjusting the airflow control ring located on the base of the coil assembly. The mod itself has an old-school OLED screen that displays battery life, coil resistance and a puff counter, and three buttons that allow the user to adjust wattage or voltage.

    The Grimm Kit also looks more like a mod than a pod system. It has a sleek metal and rubberized look that’s much more refined than any traditional pod system. The pod is removed by simply pulling it free from the body, but this is only necessary when installing a coil or replacing the pod. The pod is held in place with clips, which affect how easily the pod can be removed but also hold the pod in place more securely.

    The sense of security and stability is more important here because the pod refills from the top, and the pod will rarely be removed. The fill port is next to the mouthpiece where a latch slides open to reveal the hole. The pod can be filled with up to 3 mL of e-liquid, a substantial improvement compared to the average 1 mL capacity of most other pod systems.

    Luckily, the large capacity is supported by a comparatively large 1200 mAh internal battery. For anyone used to swapping pods and charging batteries multiple times per day, the Grimm Kit will be a massive relief. For light to medium vapers, this means that if the battery is charged overnight and the pod is filled in the morning, realistically the Grimm Kit could last all day or longer. It’s also small enough to be very portable. Although markedly larger than something like the Juul, it will still go anywhere a Juul can. It’s smaller in the frame than a credit card and about 60 percent as wide as a standard deck of playing cards.

    The vape quality provided by the Grimm Kit is superb. The flavor representation and vapor production is on par or better than comparable mod/tank kits and far beyond what many pod systems are capable of. Additionally, liquid strength, airflow and heat can all be adjusted and fine-tuned, offering infinitely more options than a standard pod system with minimal complexity.

    With just a pinch of patience, closed system users could find themselves transported to a whole new world of vaping quality. In short, the Grimm Kit offers far more than enough positive improvements over closed pod systems to justify upgrading, even considering the slight increase to complexity.

    There is the possibility that the Grimm Kit won’t appeal to users of current closed pod systems due to the increased size, button activation and refillable nature. Unfortunately, many people will soon be forced to choose whether they want to continue using closed pod systems and only have access to tobacco and menthol flavors, move to a refillable system or go back to smoking combustible cigarettes. However, there is also the potential for the Grimm Kit to be the perfect transition between pod vaping and mod vaping. While it’s not as simple as a closed system, it’s not difficult to use in the least.

    As with many other pod systems, the Grimm Kit can also serve as a dedicated nic-salt vape for more advanced users craving a variety of different vaping styles or as something more discreet and portable than a multi-battery cloud chucker. There is truly something for everyone with this kit, regardless of past vaping experience. With so many people looking to make changes to their vaping setups due to regulation, carrying a device with such wide appeal would be a wise decision.

    The Grimm Kit is perfectly positioned to be a staple in any shop. It has everything going for it. It’s designed by knowledgeable and well-known personalities from the vaping community. It’s made by a longtime reputable manufacturer—Hellvape. It’s a refillable device in a time when closed systems are under threat, allowing vapers to still choose among a multitude of flavor options. It’s an upgrade from any closed pod system, and many will not just be looking to replace their closed system but to upgrade as well. It offers top-tier build quality, superb performance and stalwart reliability.

    Lastly, it still appeals to intermediate and advanced vapers looking for alternatives to their daily drivers. Perhaps best of all, it’s available right now. Instead of, or in addition to, waiting and hoping that refillable pods become available for products like the Juul, store owners can prepare for the influx of customers looking to find alternatives to their closed pod systems.

    Regulation has always been a dirty word in the vapor industry. While light, sensible regulation has always been supported to ensure safety and quality, overstepping leads to nothing but reduced options for consumers, which in turn can only lead to more people smoking and fewer people vaping. However, every challenge offers an opportunity, and the next several months leading to the dreaded premarket tobacco product application deadline will require vapers and store owners to adapt quickly. There is already a demand for alternatives to closed systems, and the Grimm Kit could serve as the perfect option.

    Picture of Mike Huml

    Mike Huml

    An enthusiast vaper since 2009, Mike Huml is always trying to get his hands on the newest, shiniest mod. Huml has evaluated countless vaping devices over the years, but you’ll usually find him with a mechanical mod and RDA in-hand, surrounded by an aura of fog. His personal motto: “Happiness is a warm coil.”

  • Perfect Performance

    Perfect Performance
    Photos by Mike Huml
    The Dyadic squonk mod allows all the conveniences of squonking with a minimal increase in overall size and bulk.

    By Mike Huml

    The Dyadic squonk mod from Wotofo and Tony B. is a testament of functionality and simplicity. Wotofo is well known for creating simple, yet effective, vapor products, and the Dyadic continues this trend. In fact, the simplicity and common sense approach to the Dyadic yields a product that addresses many issues inherent to squonk mods. Paired with a quality atomizer such as the Rebirth RDA, the Dyadic is the best all-around squonk mod in its price range.

    To paint a broad picture, the Dyadic is a dual-18650 squonk mod at its core. It’s designed for pure performance and convenience with minimal extra features and no unnecessary tech. In true Wotofo fashion, the Dyadic emphasizes functionality and performance first, and everything else is secondary.

    Starting with aesthetics, Wotofo and Tony B. have found a happy medium between functionality and style. At first glance, the Dyadic can look burly and intimidating, but pictures don’t quite do it justice; it’s much more compact than it first appears. The Dyadic makes use of two removable plates that house the batteries and the squonk bottle. With a center-facing screen and if viewed only in a photo with no reference as to the size of the device, the Dyadic can look almost like two mods side by side. This betrays its true size as the Dyadic is no larger than an average dual-battery device.

    The design of the Dyadic is much better suited to neutral colors, such as black, silver or gunmetal, as brighter colors tend to accentuate the boldness of the mod, giving it that toy-like appearance. Neutral colors provide a sleek and professional aesthetic that works extremely well. The color screen is minimalistic in a great way, remaining large and easy to read without drawing attention away from the rest of the device.

    To the chagrin of some, the 510 connection is offset rather than centered. While this provides an arguably more comfortable vaping experience and a more pleasing aesthetic since many atomizers will fit flush to the side, it limits the number of atomizers than can be used while also being visually pleasing. Atomizers with a diameter of 24 mm are the ideal size, but one can get away with using 25 mm atomizers with nearly no overhang. Naturally, smaller atomizers will work as well, but atomizers larger than 25 mm will look flat-out ugly. As 24 mm and 25 mm atomizers have virtually become the new standards, only a few outlying products won’t suit the Dyadic.

    Lastly, the fire button and adjustment buttons are located in the center of the large side of the device. This is better suited to vapers who are right-handed as the thumb naturally rests on the button while the remaining digits gravitate toward the squonk bottle. However, after minimal practice, southpaw and ambidextrous vapers can find comfort in the Dyadic as well. These small “complaints” are the price of functionality when it comes to the Dyadic as it seems as if convenience and performance were considered first and foremost, and the aesthetics were built around these features.

    The major problem with squonk mods is the size versus power compromise. A squonk bottle takes up nearly the same space as a 18650 battery. As such, many manufacturers opt for a single 18650 battery design in order to keep the size akin to standard dual-18650 mods. The problem here is that squonk mods are exclusively for RDA use, and RDAs tend to be power hungry. A single battery may not be enough for many RDA users that use high wattages, and if it is, it won’t last for very long. Of course, the trade-off here is that one does not need to drip manually.

    In a sense, the inconvenience of shorter battery life is made up for by the convenience of not having to drip, all the while still enjoying an authentic RDA vape experience. However, it’s safe to say that most vapers who use RDAs are considered enthusiasts, and it’s not unrealistic to expect many of those enthusiasts to vape at over 100 watts. This leads to the inevitable need for more batteries.

    Other devices certainly exist that fill this need, but they are fairly rare and tend to be prohibitively expensive. The Dyadic also fills the need for a multi-battery squonk mod, and it happens to retail between $50 and $60. Likewise, most other dual-battery squonk devices are large to the point that they aren’t very well suited for portability and work better as a desk mod. However, one of the most attractive features of a squonk device is the ability to travel with it and not have to carry a bottle of juice around as well. Setting it on a desk and using it only when stationary diminishes the value of this convenience.

    The bottle that’s integrated into the Dyadic is very flexible, so it won’t deform even after extended use. Squonk mods can be messy, but Wotofo has addressed this issue by incorporating a silicone plug into the “cap” of the bottle for filling. When removed, a large juice port is revealed, meaning vapers will not need to remove the entire bottle or fiddle with removing the cap in order to fill.

    The Dyadic addresses all of the issues pertaining to squonk mods. It’s on the larger side in general but no more obtrusive than the average dual-battery mod. The battery placement, bottle/atomizer position and double-plated exoskeleton all serve to ensure that the Dyadic remains a suitable size while still offering up to 200 watts of power and allowing vapers to carry around a dripper with 8.5 mL of liquid in the squonk bottle. There really are no inherent negative aspects to this mod, although per each vaper’s personal preference, some of the aesthetics may not be ideal. Functionally, the Dyadic has no glaring flaws to speak of.

    As for the menu system, this has been scaled back in the interest of simplicity and functionality as well. Five clicks of the fire button turn the device on or off while pressing both adjustment buttons simultaneously locks the keys, including the fire button. Pressing the fire button at the same time as the right side adjustment button cycles between three power modes: standard, powerful and powerful+. That’s all there is to it. There’s no temperature control, no memory settings, no power curves.

    Again, Wotofo has always been focused on pure and simple performance, and the Dyadic does indeed perform. If the lack of temperature control seems like a huge negative, consider that this is a mod for RDAs, and many vapers who drip do not use temperature control. It’s fairer to consider the fact that for those who find the Dyadic appealing, less menu bloat is likely a positive.

    The Dyadic was reviewed alongside the Rebirth RDA from Hellvape and Mike Vapes and is worth mentioning as it is one of the best RDAs on the market for both squonking and dripping. It’s a 24 mm RDA that works perfectly with the Dyadic. It utilizes a two post design that enables easy single-coil and dual-coil builds. Being that dual-coil builds are more difficult to set up with only two terminals, this RDA is best for advanced vapers, but intermediate vapers might consider the Rebirth as well for the great single-coil performance.

    The top cap is a single piece of stainless steel that rotates to adjust airflow. The honeycomb airflow provides the smoothest airflow path possible, and the partially raised sides of the deck block the holes when the cap is rotated in order to fine-tune the amount of airflow. The airflow path is best described as “side-bottom” airflow with each airflow channel angled slightly upward to catch the vapor as it naturally rises from the coils.

    The Rebirth is a jack-of-all-trades RDA. When dripping, overfilling can cause e-liquid to leak from the airflow holes. Since the airflow is angled upward, this means juice flows downward. Luckily, small overfills are forgivable as the surface tension prevents the juice from leaking out of the airflow holes, and airflow from the subsequent drag will pull that liquid back to the coil.

    Squonking reduces the risk of leaking since each counter squonk sucks some of the excess juice back into the bottle. However, coils tend to rest high on the deck, meaning that squonking is unlikely to saturate the coils directly. Instead, as the liquid rises, it saturates the wick, and the user must wait a small amount of time before that liquid reaches the coil.

    Overall, the Rebirth RDA is the best option for those who know what they like to drip but also want to try squonking. The vapor and flavor production of this RDA is stellar, and although both dripping and squonking have their drawbacks, no other RDA can do both so seamlessly while also offering a single-coil option with no compromise.

    The Dyadic is the perfect dual-battery squonk mod. Each design aspect has a purpose, and it performs as well as a dual-battery mod should. It allows all the conveniences of squonking with a minimal increase in overall size and bulk and without sacrificing performance or power in any way. The cherry on top is the price point. At $50 to $60, it falls right in the sweet spot for dual-battery mods, and with only a minimal learning curve, a simple menu and a slick look, the Dyadic is perfect for first-time squonkers and enthusiasts alike.

    Picture of Mike Huml

    Mike Huml

    Mike Huml has been vaping since 2009 and has been working in the vapor industry for more than five years. He has extensive experience in various industry segments, including purchasing, quality assurance and content creation.

  • Shop Keeper

    Shop Keeper
    Photos by Mike Huml
    The VOOM closed pod system may have the closest representation to the draw of an analog cigarette of any device on the market.

    By Mike Huml

    The VOOM pod system from Voom Labs is a sleek and simple device for lovers of pod systems. When it comes to pod systems, less is more, and the VOOM keeps operation simple and performance impressive. With the current regulatory climate, many store owners are likely looking to shake up their pod system lineups, and the VOOM should be at the top of the list.

    The starter kit comes with the body/battery, a charging cable and a single pod with a strength of 20 mg, or 2 percent, nicotine. Multiple colors are available, and replacement pod packs come in 10 different flavors to suit vapers with a myriad of preferences. These pod packs come in packs of three, and each pod comes prefilled with 1.2 mL of e-liquid. The battery is rated at 320 mAh and should last for the duration of one full pod.

    The included proprietary charger uses friction and magnets to secure the battery when charging. This cable-free charger can be used with any USB port and most A/C adapters. The VOOM charges quickly, only requiring approximately one hour to charge from empty to full.

    A small LED on the battery will indicate the charge level using varied colors. Green means the battery is fully charged, white indicates a charge greater than 70 percent, blue illuminates between 30 percent and 70 percent, and red warns that the charge is below 30 percent and that charging is required. The LED will also flash to indicate errors such as a short-circuit or a poor pod connection. However, being a pod system, these warnings are few and far between, and these errors generally indicate that the pod should be replaced.

    The VOOM is a closed system, so refilling the pods is not possible. This maximizes convenience and simplicity but does limit options for vapers looking for more customization. Each pod uses a proprietary ceramic heating element, which ensures voluminous, satisfying vapor from beginning to end. There is no crackling or popping when the e-liquid is heated, resulting in nothing but a perfectly smooth draw.

    Speaking of the draw, the VOOM may be the closest representation of an analog cigarette to date. The airflow is very restricted, resulting in a satisfying draw with rich flavor that doesn’t incorporate any harshness or spitback. Additionally, the soft plastic material and thin design work well for hands-free vaping. Although the body is made of metal, the overall device is light enough to carry between the lips or teeth, depending on personal preference.

    The matte finish of the battery flows seamlessly into the soft plastic of the pod. The edges are rounded to maximize the ergonomic feel, and the overall impression of the VOOM is one of pure quality. The pod and battery share opposing diagonal slants where they connect, which ensures that the pod can only be inserted one way. Since many other pod systems don’t apply this restriction, one can only assume that this is for design purposes and doesn’t impact performance or safety in any meaningful way.

    It does add a slight angular juxtaposition to the otherwise rounded and ergonomic design, which is subtle but appreciated. The only minor complaint is that there is no window to view the amount of remaining liquid. Once the pod is inserted, the entire e-liquid reservoir is hidden from view. The pod is held in place securely with magnets, so sliding the pod out to view the remaining liquid is quick and effortless.

    As for flavor options, the VOOM lineup is a bit strange. There are 10 flavors to choose from: ice watermelon, ice mango, ice grape, ice strawberry, ice lemon, mint, shisha double apple, cigar, roasted coffee and butter tobacco. Out of these 10 flavors, seven of them involve mint or menthol (the shisha double apple also incorporates menthol), and two of them are variations of tobacco. That leaves only one flavor for vapers who don’t like menthol or tobacco flavors, and that’s roasted coffee. Menthol often works to increase the crispness of fruit flavors, but standard fruit flavors are far and away the most popular flavor profile among vapers, so it’s strange to see so much menthol within the flavor lineup.

    Overall, the VOOM improves upon the traditional pod system design in terms of vape quality and feel while retaining the simplicity and convenience that makes them so popular. A starter kit retails at $34.99, and replacement pod packs run about $17 for a three-pack. At 1.2 mL per pod, each replacement pack is standard in terms of quantity versus price. Each pack is available in both the standard 20 mg nicotine strength as well as a 35 mg strength. While many pod system and nic-salt liquids are available in strengths of 50 mg or higher, now may be the right time to scale back to lower nicotine strengths.

    Due to the heat that certain pod system manufacturers are currently facing, particularly when it comes to nicotine strength and how it relates to youth addiction, many feel that 50 mg is just too much nicotine. On the other hand, it’s not uncommon for heavy adult smokers to need this much nicotine if they hope to overcome the grip of smoking analog cigarettes.

    There is no clear-cut correct answer, and each store owner is responsible for serving their customers in the best way possible. As such, the nicotine strengths available for the VOOM are perfectly reasonable, but if a store owner finds themselves with numerous customers who haven’t weaned themselves down from a 50 mg e-liquid, the VOOM may be a tough sell. However, it’s important to note that while the difference between 35 mg and 50 mg e-liquids seems very significant on paper, in practice, this shouldn’t be a huge hurdle to overcome. A 35 mg e-liquid is still very high and will likely satisfy the majority of the customer base.

    However, for those concerned with extremely high nicotine strengths upward of 50 mg, the VOOM is the perfect pod system in terms of optics. Setting a self-imposed nicotine cap on available e-liquids can show that a store is taking responsibility and actively working to reduce nicotine addiction while still catering to its adult customer base. Each business owner will naturally decide what is best when it comes to available products and which policies to implement, but it should be noted that the VOOM offers a potential opportunity to address the current issues in vaping through action for stores that find it necessary.

    It’s also no secret that pod systems and flavors available in convenience stores are under threat, meaning that dedicated vape shops should be gearing up to carry more of these pod systems and replacement pods for vapers alienated by regulation. Even the threat of regulation has prompted some pod system manufacturers to discontinue certain flavors or reevaluate where those flavors are sold.

    While veteran vapers can currently still order online, many newer users (and particularly users of pod systems) are more comfortable purchasing from a physical location. By broadening a product line, a store can work to bolster its customer base but also prepare for the contingency of restricted online sales. Although the vapor industry has been in regulatory limbo for many years at this point, the call for regulation has now hit a fever pitch. Regulation is coming, and businesses most capable of adapting stand the best chance of weathering the storm. The VOOM is a great place to begin when reworking a product line with the expectation of garnering new customers.

    As a product, the VOOM performs well among the best pod systems available but also comes along at a time when many are likely looking to adopt new pod systems. When making that switch, the VOOM offers the highest quality and an opportunity to address many of the issues pertaining to the vapor industry at large.

    With vape shops rumored to be exempt from an impending restriction on certain products, nicotine strengths or flavors, Voom Labs is offering a great product at the ideal time. Although it’s like many other pod systems, now is not the time to reinvent the wheel. As product refinement continues, VOOM is offering exactly what is needed: a durable, quality product that won’t be easily replaced by similar products that can also serve to address some major issues pertaining to regulation and increase adaptability for a store’s product line.

    The perfect vapor product is entirely subjective and may not exist at all. However, the VOOM may be the perfect pod system to consider right now. On its own, the VOOM is a fantastic product overall, but given all the outside factors, this could be one of the best additions to a store’s lineup to act as a response to impending regulation.

    Picture of Mike Huml

    Mike Huml

    Mike Huml has been vaping since 2009 and has been working in the vapor industry for more than five years. He has extensive experience in various industry segments, including purchasing, quality assurance and content creation.