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Voopoo Drag Max Review: Not Just Another AIO

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Voopoo have invested heavily in their PNP ecosystem, not just on the atomizer side, but so too on hardware. It seems like not a month passes without a new PNP device from Voopoo. The Drag Max is the newest release in this lineup and falls neatly between the Drag X and Argus GT. Dropping the 510 connection of the Argus GT and adding an addition battery slot to the Drag X, the Max feels like a perfect compromise between the two.

Voopoo Drag Max Verdict – 84%

Voopoo Drag Max Review

Voopoo Drag Max Pros:

  • Dual 18650 is a welcome addition
  • Fantastic colour screen
  • PNP ecosystem offers something for everyone
  • Spot on ergonomics

Voopoo Drag Max Cons:

  • Still not an OG Drag replacement
  • No 510 connection
  • Perhaps too similar to the Argus GT, with fewer features

The Drag Max aims to fill the gap between the single battery Drag X and the 510 equipped Argus GT. If there is a need for it, I’m not entirely sure. Naturally, users of the Drag X and those that want to run PNP tanks are thankful for the increased battery life but other than that it feels like a downgrade from the Argus GT. On its own, the Drag Max is still a decent device with huge customizability.

Design

Voopoo Drag Max Review

You’d be forgiven for confusing the Drag Max with the Argus GT, or even the Drag X from the front. These 3 devices are near identical and an obvious attempt at recycling parts by Voopoo. The same, but impressively good, colour TFT screen is found on all three devices and from the front, they are indistinguishable from each other. Fire and adjustment buttons remain in the same position across the range. The biggest difference between the three is the added battery slot over the Drag X and the removal of the 510 thread from the Argus GT.

A new chip (Gene.Fan2) sits inside the chassis and offers a max output of 177w (only available with the RBA deck) and a unique dual theme UI.

Unfortunately, the device has lost much of the solidity of the original Drag in favour of a lighter, and cheaper feeling, zinc alloy frame.

It’s uncertain whether all versions of the Drag Max will include the immense amount accessories included in the review kit, but if it does, the Drag Max is a hobbyist dream. Not only do you get the device and a PNP tank, the kit also comes with the 2ml MTL PNP pod, 4.5ml PNP pod, rebuildable pod and every coil in the PNP range, including the PNP rebuildable coil. It is easily one f the most complete pieces of kit I have laid my eyes on and I do hope it will be available to purchase to the general public.

On the topic of pods, the Max makes use of the magnetically secured tanks as found in all other PNP devices. If you’re familiar with the PNP system, there’s nothing that should catch you off guard. Airflow is still controlled via the lever on the device itself and the coils are still drop-in style.

Performance

Voopoo Drag Max Review

I have always been fond of the Gene chips and the Gene.Fan 2 is no different. Power delivery is near-instant and while it’s difficult to judge actual power output with drop-in coils, it seems pretty accurate.

Most of the PNP coil range is widely loved in the community thanks to phenomenal flavour and unprecedented longevity and is part reason the Drag X was so popular. Nothing has changed on this front, but the ability to run a 1.2ohm MTL coil on the dual 18650 is fantastic. Sadly, the PNP RBA coil remains unchanged and is still a ballache to build on. My personal favourite remains the 0.15VM6 for its pinpoint flavour accuracy and lifespan.

The included RTA is a nice touch too and works as well as any mass-produced RTA, however I would have liked the inclusion of a 510 adapter to run my own atomizers.

Specs:

  • Size: 122mm x 50.25mm x 25mm
  • Connection: Magnetic PNP
  • Dual 18650
  • Wattage Output Range: 5w – 177w
  • USB -C Charing
  • Materials: Zinc alloy/Leather

Voopoo Drag Max Conclusion

Voopoo Drag Max Review

It’s a shame that the Drag Max has no 510 connection, but looking at the whole line-up, I guess it makes sense. The Drag Max does not replace the original Drag, nor is it an upgrade from the Argus GT. Instead, it takes the Drag X and improves upon it. The extra 18650 is welcomed and the new UI works really well. The inclusion of a million tanks and coils shows just how versatile the PnP system is as well. While I do like the idea of my own little collection of atomizers, with the PnP system, there really is no need.

The Drag Max does what the Drag X does, but just more so and if that is your style vaping, there’s nothing better on the market at the moment

Voopoo Drag Max Review

Geekvape Wenax Stylus Review: Just Another POD System

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The Geekvape Wenax Stylus is Geekvape’s entry into the pen styled POD vape market. They are ridiculously late to the party and the Wenax doesn’t offer anything new or innovative to the market, so why should we care? Well, it’s Geekvape and they are known to take their time to properly research and develop a product. The Wenax is no exception, but I fear this pen styled vape may be so late to the market that it’s irrelevant, at least to the hobbyist.

Geekvape Wenax Stylus Verdict – 63%

Geekvape Wenax Review

Geekvape Wenax Stylus Pros:

  • Perfectly pocketable
  • Perfect for the transitioning smoker
  • Great flavor on the 1.2ohm coil
  • Huge battery for the device size

Geekvape Wenax Stylus Cons:

  • Feels outdated
  • PODs are a touch too dark
  • The fire button is in an awkward place
  • Rubber fill bungs are a pain in the arse
  • 0.6ohm coil feels pointless here

I’ve been excited about a real POD system from Geekvape for quite a while. The Aegis POD was a decent performer but somehow didn’t feel like a true to form POD. The Wenax fills that gap perfectly, but there’s been an abundance of these styles of devices in the last year. The Wenax gets lost between a hundred different options, even if it is a solid performer in most aspects.

Design

Geekvape Wenax Review

I’d pay good money to sit-in on a Geekvape design meeting. From the futuristic Aegis POD, to the Wenax Stylus that looks 3 years old on launch takes some serious balls. Apart from transitioning smokers, I do not see anyone applauding Geekvape for the design cues on this Ego shaped device.

The Wenax is called a pen style system for a reason and can easily be confused for a BIC pen, it’s round, very round. The design is fairly clean with the fire button finding it’s way to the bottom of the device. The fire button glows satisfyingly when being fired, which is a nice touch. Moving on the side you’ll find a micro-USB charging port and 1 LED that displays battery and power level. You’ll also find a microscopic airhole right above the LED.

The POD is a drop-in style setup that’s held securely with magnets. The POD holds 2ml of juice, but unfortunately a tad on the dark side, making it difficult to see your juice levels in darker environments. Interesting fact, manufacturers prefer dark pods to prevent your juice spoiling from ultraviolet light exposure.

There really isn’t much more to it than that, the device is as simple as it gets, even for a POD system.

Performance

Geekvape Wenax Review

The Wenax aims to be an AIO device, offering both a 1.2ohm coil for strict MTL vaping and a 0.6ohm coil with a wider bore and a touch more airflow. Don’t be fooled though, at best, the 0.6ohm gives you a very, very restricted direct lung hit. It’s quite obvious the device is aimed at MTL, not that we were expecting otherwise.

The 1.2ohm coil, which is new in the G-Coil lineup, offers decent flavor at its full 11 watts, but anything below that is muted and lackluster. The new coil also takes quite some time to bed in and I only found the flavor to be popping after one full POD of use.

The 0.6ohm coil is well known by now and isn’t shy on flavor in the Geekvape Boost, but sadly, here, on the Wenax, there just isn’t enough power or airflow to get it performing as it should. A maximum output of 16w just doesn’t quite get there. I would have preferred to see another 1.2ohm coil included instead of the 0.6.

At 11w, the 1100mAh battery should last you through a solid day of usage, which amazing considering the size of the device. Even with the 0.6ohm coil at 16 watts, you can expect a considerable amount of time between recharges, which is good, because the Wenax makes use of micro-USB with a slower charge rate than that of its type C counterpart.

Specs:

  • Size: 19mm x 112mm
  • Weight: 44g
  • Internal 1100mAh battery
  • Wattage Output Range: 9/10/11w (1.2ohm)-14/15/16w (0.6ohm)
  • Micro-USB charging
  • Materials: Unibody aluminum construction

Geekvape Wenax Stylus Conclusion

On paper, the Wenax looks like a great all-round device. Massive battery tried and tested coils and solid construction, but sadly it feels outdated in design and the power range isn’t quite sufficient for the provided coils. It’s also not the best AIO device on the market and should have been marketed as a strict MTL product.

That said, for a transitioning smoker, I can’t imagine a better shape and feeling device than the Wenax. It feels all too familiar to a traditional cigarette and gives a near-identical draw. While I feel Geekvape has brought the Wenax to the market too late, perhaps I am not the target market as this device makes sense to those looking to move away from combustible tobacco. That said, beginner vapers are a lot less fussed about flavor, power, and airflow adjustment and expect a device to deliver nicotine to their system in a familiar way. In that light, the WEnax is fantastic, for seasoned vapers though, you might want to give this one a skip.

Geekvape Wenax Review

Vaporesso Gets PMTA Application Greenlight

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As manufacturers start submitting their applications, more and more are being accepted by the FDA for PMTA approval. Vaporesso has just gotten word that their first round of submissions has been accepted.

Vaporesso’s Application Is Accepted

Unless you’ve been lurking under a rock, you know that the Premarket Tobacco Product Application, or PMTA, submission deadline is looming. In essence, all Tobacco (and in this case vape related) companies need to submit an application to the Federal Food and Drug Administration of the United States for approval before being allowed to sell their products in the USA. This is bad news for vapers worldwide as the USA is the biggest consumer of Chinese vaping gear. No more US sales mean that Chinese manufacturers will turn to a new revenue stream, leaving us grasping at nothing. The industry would go bust in a matter of months.

To make matters worse, the whole process has been so convoluted that most manufacturers were caught off-guard, either not understanding the process or not having enough time to submit their applications. It needs to be noted that applications are on a “per product” basis and not for a brand as a whole, further complicating matters

Vaporesso has been hard at work preparing its application since the FDA finalized the application process in May 2020 with the help of industry experts.

“We have been engaging professional service providers and CROs from USA to work closely with our own disciplinary in-house team with various backgrounds and expertise, who are further supported by the strong R&D team from SMOORE’s leading laboratories and fundamental research institutes to secure a successful acceptance under a stringent timeline.”

On the 20th of August 2020, Vaporesso received their acceptance of their first round of applications and while it’s not yet known which products were submitted, it spells good news that there may actually be hope for e-cigarette users. Furthermore, Vaporesso has received positive feedback from the FDA, complimenting them on their overall presentation quality. PMTA regulations should also (hopefully) ensure that accepted products remain at a high standard and be socially responsible.

Not The End Of The Road

Acceptance allows these products to move on to the next stage of approval. This entails a scientific review of all submitted products to deem the product appropriate for the protection of public health. Until such a time comes where the FDA has finalized this stage (which may be months, even years from now) accepted products are sellable within the USA. Putting it simply, getting acceptance on your PMTA application gives you leeway to sell those products until the FDA gets their act together

Companies have until the 9th of September to submit their applications, after which the sale of that product will be disallowed if not accepted.

 

vaporesso-gen-review-4

GeekVape Aegis X Review: My New Daily Driver…

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They say that too much of a good thing is a bad thing, but is it really? Geekvape certainly is pushing their luck with their Aegis series by churning out mod after mod after mod. There’s the Aegis Legend, Aegis Solo, Aegis Squonk, Aegis Boost, Aegis Mini, Aegis Boost and now, the Aegis X.

So, what sets the Aegis X apart from every other Aegis Geekvape has brought out?

Geekvape Aegis X Verdict – 87%

 

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Most vape mods have weak links, things that aren’t quite perfect. It might come with a sub-par vape tank or have difficult controls. Most have their quirks, but the GeekVape AEGIS X Kit is solid all the way through – from its design to how easy it is to use. You also have masses of power and myriad vape settings too for things like temperature control and Bypass Mode.

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Pros:

  • Gorgeous screen
  • Unrivalled build quality
  • Ergonomic AF
  • Near-instant fire time
  • Memory banks are nifty
  • Included Cerebus tank is solid
  • Price – at just $68, it’s well priced

Cons:

  • The screen is in a weird position if you’re a right-handed index finger firer
  • Menu system takes some getting used to
  • It’s on the bulky side

Full Geekvape Aegis X Review

Geekvape Aegis X Review

Packaging

A typical slide style box that we’re accustomed to see from china houses the Aegis X and bundled Cerberus tank. Inside the box, you’ll find a micro USB charging cable, a spare coil for your Cerberus, some o-rings and spares as well as some reading material. Fair warning, keep the manual, you’ll need it.

Design and Feel

The Aegis X looks a hell of a lot like the original Aegis Legend and I found it hard to place the X in the lineup until I dug a bit deeper. The Aegis X is a Legend with a large (and I mean monstrous) LCD on the side. So why does that make the X special over something like the Vaporesso Luxe, Smok Morph or any other colourful display, high power mod currently available? Simple really, the Aegis series is well known for its ruggedness and the X is no different; waterproof, shockproof, weather-sealed and comes with a screen that is actually readable is a match made in heaven for clumsy people.

Geekvape Aegis X Review

Ergonomics remain largely unchanged, but the new screen does pose a slight problem, for me, at least. I am an index fire kinda guy and holding the Aegis X in my right-hand means the screen is in my palm and unviewable. Thumb firing relieves the problem but makes the Aegis awkward to hold. It’s almost as if Geekvape want people to force themselves to be ambidextrous. Obviously, you don’t need to look at your screen all the time, but I thought it a strange design decision. Perhaps I received a left-handed version, who knows anymore? Other than the weird screen placement, I cannot fault the device in any regard, it feels well-constructed with ports sealed and hinges sturdy.

The front fascia holds three buttons, a large trigger fire button and 2 small adjustment buttons, all three super clicky and adds to the high-quality feel of the device. It also looks extremely nice in all black.

Menu

So that screen huh? Man, what a thing of beauty; crystal clear, bright and an easy to understand layout. Unfortunately, this leads us to the menu system which takes some getting used to. Geekvape has opted for memory banks as the front end to store your favourite modes and power outputs, but if you’re like me and don’t read the manual, you’re going to have a rough time.

Credit where credit is due, once you find your way through the controls, the 3 modes available on the fly is really nifty. I have mine set up for an MTL setup, a single-coil low wattage setup and a high power clouds bro clouds setup, all easily swappable with 3 clicks of the fire button.

Geekvape Aegis X Review

Within the menu, users can not only change the theme but also the colour of the theme. Did I mention how gorgeous the 2.4” OLED screen looks?

As expected, there are various fire modes, variable power (5w – 200w) Temp Control (100c- 315c) and Bypass mode. All the expected safety features are there too, short circuit, battery overvoltage and so on.

Cerberus Tank

Geekvape has made the wise decision to stay with the Cerberus tank, a tried and tested piece of kit. It’s your average bottom airflow mesh sub-ohm tank, but it works well. The 0.2 Ohm X1 Supermesh coils provide excellent flavour and the quarter-turn top is easy enough to operate. In stock form, the tank holds 5.5ml of e-liquid, while the included straight glass takes that down to 4ml. It’s not a ground-breaking piece of kit, but it does what’s expected and it makes sense that Geekvape included the Cerberus instead of the Alpha tank.

Performance

Hardly ever will a 18650 mod struggle with power delivery and this is the case with the Aegis X as well. Ramp-up time is near-instant and it will put out more power than you can realistically use; up to 200w. The Aegis X will even run down to 0.05 ohms if you’re crazy enough. Temperature control works with a little bit of fiddling, but the hit is consistent enough to call it decent. It’s by no means DNA Replay, but it will suffice. Unfortunately, the large screen does cause additional battery drain and it is very noticeable, so be sure to take that into account if the Aegis X will be your daily mod. Expect about half a day if you’re a chain vaper.

Specs:

  • Dual 18650
  • Power output: 5-200w
  • 200°-600°F / 100°-415°C Temperature Range
  • 05-3.0ohms Resistance
  • IP67 Rated for Water, Shock and Dust Proofing
  • AS 2.0 Chipset.
  • 4″ OLED Screen.
  • Charging Port: Micro USB
  • Size: 90mmx56mmx31mm

Geekvape Aegis X Conclusion

Geekvape Aegis X Review

So, you work in construction, drive trucks, hit things with hammers or you’re just generally clumsy? The Aegis X should be high up on your list if you’re looking for something rugged and durable – it’s currently ranked #1 in our Best Vape Mod Guide.

The X is a fantastic device, even with its quirks. The screen is amazing, and the device performs equally well. A few small changes can make the X series one of the best consumer-level mods on the market and not just for those looking for a battle box. The included Cerberus tank sweetens the deal even further.

2020's #1 Vape Mod. Bar None!
GeekVape Aegis X Box Mod
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Most vape mods have weak links, things that aren’t quite perfect. It might come with a sub-par vape tank or have difficult controls. Most have their quirks, but the GeekVape AEGIS X Kit is solid all the way through – from its design to how easy it is to use. You also have masses of power and myriad vape settings too for things like temperature control and Bypass Mode.

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Geekvape Aegis X Review

Lost Vape Centaurus Review: 2020’s Best DNA 250c Mod. Period!

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Arguably the most anticipated mod from 2020, the Lost Vape Centaurus has finally arrived in our mucky paws. The Centaurus replaces the immensely popular Paranormal, a behemoth of a DNA250C device, and one of the best-selling DNA250c devices ever, but can it go toe to toe with its sibling. On paper, it certainly seems so.

Lost Vape Centaurus Review Verdict – 94%

2020's #1 DNA 250c Vape Mod. Period!
Lost Vape Centaurus DNA 150c Mod
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Look, the Centaurus isn't a cheap device, even more so for a Chinese made mod. It's about $160 and that's no small amount of change. What that money gets you though, is a solidly built mod, that looks incredible in any collection and houses one of arguably the best chipsets ever made. The amount of customizability alone is worth the price. Add replay mode and a solid VW mode to the mix and you have a mod that should keep you entertained for years.


Lost Vape Centaurus DNA 150c Mod
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Lost Vape Centaurus Pros:

  • Holy gorgeous mod batman!
  • DNA 250C is still a top tier chipset
  • Build Quality is rocking
  • Ergonomics are perfect
  • Massive range of color configurations
  • The battery door has been greatly improved

Lost Vape Centaurus Cons:

  • Lip on 510 connection is annoying
  • Early versions had an incorrect spelling of Centaurus on the mod
  • 25mm is the biggest atomizer you can you fit

Lost Vape has seen a rift in their segments, with the founding company losing the rights to their Paranormal series after the split. With the Paranormal being a top seller, it only made sense for LV to replicate the design. What we got was a slightly refined and refreshed version of the Paranormal, an already close to flawless product.

Design

Lost Vape Centaurus Review

Looking at the Centaurus from far away, it’s extremely difficult to distinguish between it and the Paranormal. They are near-identical bar a few small changes. Gone is the hated plastic decorative piece under the 510, slightly sharper angles and a whole host of new color and material options. The Centaurus comes in stainless steel, gunmetal, and black chassis options. Panels come in various versions of carbon fiber, stabilized wood, and abalone shell. If that wasn’t enough, grip options include different leather options, ostrich, crocodile, cowhide, and more. Rest assured, there will be a combination that meets your fancy.

The chassis is an angular affair, no doubt to house the chunky Evolv board on the front. Thankfully, the rounded rear, leather-clad assembly is round and fits perfectly in your thumb webbing, making the Centaurus the perfect index trigger device. The stainless steel construction of the chassis makes the Centaurus not only sturdy but heavy as a brick. I wouldn’t say it’s not pocketable, but you’re gonna need a hefty belt for this one.

The front facia is typical DNA with a large color screen, a squishy fire button, 2 adjustment buttons, and a menu/confirm button. The buttons are stainless steel as well and have a tiny amount of resistance when pushing without being clicky. Up top is the 510 connection and here is where my biggest complaint is. The 510 is slightly raised, likely to protect the mods paint, but prevent your atomizers from sitting flush with the chassis. Why many won’t care but, for a mod as beautiful as the Centaurus, this is disappointing.

The battery door on the Paranormal was a flimsy hatch type unit and was prone to failure. Lost Vape has decided to keep the hatch, but instead reinforce the hinges to make the entire assembly sturdier. I found with certain batteries, like Sony VTC5s the door can be difficult to close, but once it’s latched in, it stays closed. Speaking of batteries, the Centaurus is strictly dual 18650, but that should provide at least a full day if you’re a heavy vaper.

Performance

Lost Vape Centaurus Review

Housing a DNA250c, the Lost Vape Centaurus performs just like you would expect. Ample power and temperature control to die for. Latest gen mods have made big strides to ensure fast and accurate power, but none have been able to match a DNA mod for its temperature control mode. Evolv calls their TC “Replay” and in essence, it’s a dumbed-down way to ensure that every hit is the same as your favorite hit. Simply put, with a TC compatible coil, a user can take a puff and if it’s satisfactory, hit the save button and the DNA board will replicate that hit every time until your cotton is completely dry. No dry hits, no drop in power, just pure magic.

DNAs are also known for their customizability, however, not everyone would want to delve into the inner workings of their device. What we do love though is the option to completely change the theme of your device, either by downloading a pre-made one of designing your own theme. Other valuable options are complete diagnostics of your device from the ambient temperature of your coils, to a history of all your previous puffs. Even battery performance can be monitored in real-time. It really is the tinker man’s chipset.

Specs:

  • Size: 91mm x 55mm x 26mm
  • Chipset: Evolv DNA250c
  • Dual 18650
  • Max atomizer size: 25mm
  • Wattage Output Range: 1-200WResistance Range: 0.1-3.0ohm
  • Micro-USB charging
  • Materials: Stainless Steel

Lost Vape Centaurus Review – Conclusion

Look, the Centaurus isn’t a cheap device, even more so for a Chinese made mod. It’s about $160 and that’s no small amount of change. What that money gets you though, is a solidly built mod, that looks incredible in any collection and houses one of arguably the best chipsets ever made. The amount of customizability alone is worth the price. Add replay mode and a solid VW mode to the mix and you have a mod that should keep you entertained for years.

Is it worth upgrading from a Paranormal? Probably not, both house a DNA250c, and the updates are minor; a better battery door and slightly better aesthetics, for instance. Is it worth upgrading from a non-DNA 250c device? Absol0utely. If you have deep pockets, a Dicodes or similar may worth a look, but in my opinion, the Centaurus cannot be beaten on looks, features, and useability.

2020's #1 DNA 250c Vape Mod. Period!
Lost Vape Centaurus DNA 150c Mod
$169.95 Inc. FREE Shipping

Look, the Centaurus isn't a cheap device, even more so for a Chinese made mod. It's about $160 and that's no small amount of change. What that money gets you though, is a solidly built mod, that looks incredible in any collection and houses one of arguably the best chipsets ever made. The amount of customizability alone is worth the price. Add replay mode and a solid VW mode to the mix and you have a mod that should keep you entertained for years.


Lost Vape Centaurus DNA 150c Mod
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Lost Vape Centaurus Review

Smok Scar-18 Review: The Aegis Clone – But Is It 100% Legit?

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The Scar series is the newest in Smok’s lineup, taking a stab at the Aegis line from Geekvape. IP67 rated devices, being water, dust and shockproof, they aim to provide durable devices for users that are a bit harder on their hardware. Unfortunately, they just don’t quite get there, even if they are on average cheaper than their closest competitor.

Smok Scar-18 Review Verdict – 63%

The Cheapest "Indestructible" Vape Mod
Smok Scar-18 Vape Mod
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The SMOK Scar-18 is essentially a clone of the indestructible GeekVape Aegis vape mod. It’s also a starter kit too, so you get a fairly decent mesh coil tank with it. The SMOK Scar-18 is considerably cheaper than the GeekVape Aegis Legend too, and it also has a colorful display too. Performance is solid and, for the price, it’s hard to argue with what SMOK has come to the table with here – it’s plenty powerful and it looks great. 

Smok Scar-18 Vape Mod
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Smok Scar-18 Pros:

  • It’s pretty
  • IP67 Rated
  • Included TFV9 tank is pretty good
  • Clear colour TFT screen

Smok Scar-18 Cons:

  • The design was obviously copied from Geekvape
  • Smok coils are still questionable at best
  • Feels a whole lot flimsier than an Aegis
  • Buttons are super squishy

The Scar-18 is Smoks answer to a rugged dual 18650 device to the likes of an Aegis Legend, undoubtedly the king of indestructible. It’s prettier and has a colour screen, but a few things mean it won’t quite take over the throne.

Design

Smok Scar18 Review

The Smok Scar-18 design is a mishmash of Aegis X and Aegis Legend, taking the worst parts of each device to create something that somehow looks fairly desirable. The cross framed chassis from the X over colourful panels is more desirable than that of the X, while the Legend styled front facia features a colour screen that was sorely lacking on the Legend.

The Scar-18 comes in a total of 8 colour combinations including a fluid rainbow effect to gold-framed to a murdered out black look. It’s certainly more varied than the Aegis series if that’s what you prefer. Personally, the straight black is my favourite, perhaps because it looks exactly like the Aegis X’s side profile.

The front facia features a clear and easy to understand 0.96″ TFT colour display as found in the RPM series. It’s a definite step up from the Legend screen, but not as nice as the colossal screen found on the Aegis X. I’m hoping we’ll see a version with the G-Priv3 screen soon, one of the best screens Smok have produced to date. The buttons are squishy and don’t quite provide the amount of feedback I like. Not the biggest of issues, but if you like clicky buttons, look elsewhere. Furthermore, if you’re looking for a solid feeling device, this is not either. It’s too light and Smok’s well-known quality control issues seem abundant.

Performance

Smok Scar18 Review

If you’ve been following online communities, you’ll be surprised to hear that the Scar18 actually performs solidly. There’s nothing inherently amazing about the way it hits, but power delivery is smooth and instant. I have my doubts that really puts out the claimed 230w, but honestly, who vapes like that? At the 50-80w mark, it hits as expected.

The menu is simple to understand as well, with everything neatly laid out and where you would expect it to be. Moving between TC and power modes is as simple as a few clicks of the power button. Sadly, we’ve got micro USB once more, but at this point, I’m not even complaining anymore.

Battery drain is minimal too, thanks to the small screen, giving me nearly 3 days use from a fresh pair of 18650s. Furthermore, the Scar-18 has a maximum output of 8v. Not quite 9v, it’s way more than you would expect from Smok.

The Scar-18 feels on a different level to recent Smok products on a performance level. I’d go as far as saying it compares to the Aegis series and this is anything but a negative. Easily the best part of the Scar-18, but sadly, there’s more to a mod than how it performs

Specs:

  • Size: 54mm x 30.6mm x 88mm
  • Chipset: IQ-X
  • Dual 18650
  • Wattage Output Range: 1-230W
  • Resistance Range: 0.1-2.5ohm
  • Micro-USB charging
  • Materials: “Leather”/Zinc Alloy

Smok Scar-18 Conclusion

Smok Scar18 Review

So here we have a device that performs as advertised, looks great and is IP67 compliant, but scored fairly low. What gives? Inherently, there’s nothing glaringly wrong with the Scar-18, but it all just feels a little off. Couple that to the fact that it is a blatant copy of the Aegis LG Legend, it becomes difficult to recommend the Scar-18. Let’s not forget that Smok is known for poor customer service and with their QC being sub-par, it is a risky purchase. It’s not much cheaper than an Aegis Legend either, so why would you choose the Scar-18?

For one, it’s got a better screen and the colour options are better, but that’s about it. If that’s what sways you, by all means, go for it, but it just does not compete with an Aegis Legend.

The Cheapest "Indestructible" Vape Mod
Smok Scar-18 Vape Mod
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The SMOK Scar-18 is essentially a clone of the indestructible GeekVape Aegis vape mod. It’s also a starter kit too, so you get a fairly decent mesh coil tank with it. The SMOK Scar-18 is considerably cheaper than the GeekVape Aegis Legend too, and it also has a colorful display too. Performance is solid and, for the price, it’s hard to argue with what SMOK has come to the table with here – it’s plenty powerful and it looks great. 

Smok Scar-18 Vape Mod
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Smok Scar18 Review
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