Is the PAX 3 worth a buy in 2023? Here’s everything you need to know from someone that has used one for three years straight…
Impressive vapor. Easy to use. Compact. Affordable. The PAX 3 ticks a lot of boxes which is why it is one of the most popular weed vapes on the planet. Is it the best? No. But it is damn good.
- π Battery Life: The PAX 3 has a 3500mAh battery, a significant step up from the PAX 2’s 3000mAh. More vaping, less charging.
- π² Bluetooth Connectivity: The PAX 3 adds Bluetooth, allowing for app-based customization. This is a new feature compared to the PAX 2.
- π¬οΈ Core Features: Many essentials like vapor quality and design are similar between the PAX 2 and PAX 3.
- πΏ Best for Serious Vapers: If you’re serious about vaping weed, the PAX 3 is a top-tier choice.
When it comes to portable weed vaporizers under $300, PAX and Davinci are the big names. I’ve been a PAX 3 user for three years now, and it’s time for an updated review. Let’s dive in.
PAX 3 Review
π‘οΈ Faster Heat-Up Time
One of the standout upgrades in the PAX 3 is its heat-up time. I remember using the PAX 2 and waiting a bit for it to get to the right temperature.
But with the PAX 3, it’s a whole different story. This device heats up in less than 30 seconds, and let me tell you, that makes a world of difference.
It’s not just about the time saved; it’s about the convenience and the flow of your vaping session. Imagine you’re out with friends or taking a quick break; you don’t want to be standing around waiting for your vaporizer to heat up.
With the PAX 3, it’s almost instantaneous. You turn it on, and before you know it, you’re ready to vape.
This quick heat-up time is especially useful for those impromptu moments when you suddenly decide you want to vape. No more awkward waiting or checking your watch.
Just click, wait a few seconds, and you’re good to go. It’s a small but impactful feature that significantly enhances the overall experience.
π² Bluetooth Connectivity
The Bluetooth support on the PAX 3 is a game-changer, and I can’t emphasize this enough. When I first heard that a vaporizer could connect to my smartphone, I was intrigued but skeptical. How much could an app really add to the vaping experience?
Turns out, quite a lot.
Once you pair the PAX 3 with the app, a whole new world of customization opens up. You can fine-tune temperature settings, switch between various heating modes, and even lock your device to prevent unauthorized use. It’s like having a remote control for your vaporizer, right on your phone.
For someone like me who enjoys tweaking settings to get the perfect draw, this feature is invaluable. It’s not just about changing the temperature; it’s about having the ability to adapt your session to your specific needs and preferences in real-time.
Whether you’re looking for a flavor-packed session or cloud-heavy draws, the app lets you adjust settings on the fly.
The Bluetooth feature also future-proofs your device. Any firmware updates can be easily downloaded and installed via the app, ensuring your PAX 3 stays up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
So, is Bluetooth connectivity a gimmick? Absolutely not. It’s a significant upgrade that puts you in the driver’s seat of your vaping experience, offering a level of customization that was previously unheard of in portable vaporizers.
Keep in mind that Apple β for whatever reason β has now blocked the app from its App Store. It still works fine on Android. But there is a workaround for iPhone β check it out here.
π Improved Battery
The battery upgrade in the PAX 3 is one of those improvements that you might overlook at first, but you’ll definitely appreciate in the long run.
I’ve been using the PAX 3 for a while now, three years plus, and the 3500mAh battery is noticeably better than the 3000mAh battery in the PAX 2.
What does this mean in practical terms? Longer sessions and less frequent charging. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been out and about, enjoying a session, only to have the device die on me.
With the PAX 3, those moments are far less frequent.
The extra 500mAh might not sound like a lot, but it extends the life of each session and the time between charges.
For me, this means more freedom and flexibility. I can take the PAX 3 on a day trip or to a social gathering without worrying about bringing a charger or finding an outlet.
It’s a quality-of-life improvement that makes the device more convenient and reliable.
So, if you’re the type who hates being tethered to a charger or if you’re planning to use your vaporizer in settings where charging might not be convenient, the upgraded battery in the PAX 3 is a significant advantage.
It’s one of those upgrades that directly impacts how often and where you can use the device, making it a key feature in my book.
πΏ Custom Heating Modes
The app’s various heating modes are a standout feature for me, and they really elevate the PAX 3 to a new level of customization.
When I first started using the device, I was content with the Standard mode. It’s reliable and gets the job done.
But then I started exploring the other modes, and that’s when things got interesting.
Flavor mode is a revelation if you’re someone who appreciates the nuanced tastes of different strains. It adjusts the temperature settings to maximize flavor, and the difference is noticeable.
Each draw is like a burst of layered flavors that you might not fully appreciate in other modes.
Then there’s Boost mode, and let me tell you, it lives up to its name. This mode keeps the device in high gear, delivering powerful hits.
It’s perfect for those times when you want to get the most out of your material in the shortest amount of time.
What I love about these modes is the control they give you over your session. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely, flavor-focused experience or you’re looking for quick, potent hits, you can tailor the session to your current needs and preferences.
And switching between modes is as easy as a few taps on your phone.
π― Concentrate Support
The ability to use concentrates in the PAX 3 is a noteworthy addition, especially for those who like to switch between dry herbs and concentrates.
You can buy a special concentrate insert designed for this very purpose. Initially, I was excited about this feature, thinking it would make the PAX 3 a true all-in-one device.
However, after using it for a while, I have to say it’s not quite as effective for concentrates as it is for dry herbs. Don’t get me wrong, it does the job, but the experience isn’t as optimized as when you’re using dry herbs.
Some reviews I’ve read echo this sentiment, suggesting that while the PAX 3 can handle concentrates, it’s not where the device shines brightest.
For instance, the vapor quality when using concentrates is good but not exceptional. It lacks the punch you’d get from a device specifically designed for concentrates.
Also, I found that it requires a bit more maintenance when you’re switching between dry herbs and concentrates, as the canister can get a bit sticky and gunky.
So, is the concentrate feature a nice addition? Absolutely. It adds versatility to the PAX 3 and makes it more appealing to a broader range of users.
But if concentrates are your primary focus, you might find this feature a bit lacking compared to specialized concentrate vaporizers.
Key Takeaways / Things To Keep In Mind
Design and User Experience
- ποΈ Design Continuity: The PAX 3 maintains its sleek design, now with a glossy finish. But be warned: the new finish is a fingerprint magnet.
- ποΈ User Experience: The device is easy to use, but mastering all features requires some time with the app. There’s a bit of a learning curve.
- π¦ Included Half Pack Lid: Want to vape less material? The PAX 3 now includes a half-pack lid. It’s a small but significant addition.
- π€« Discreet Design: The PAX 3 remains as discreet as ever. It even has a stealth mode to dim lights and minimize odor.
Performance and Vapor Quality
- π¬οΈ Vapor Quality: The vapor quality is similar to the PAX 2. The stainless steel oven may mute the overall flavor, but the vapor production is still impressive.
- βοΈ Balanced Modes: The device offers a range of heating modes. Whether you want a flavor-packed or cloud-heavy session, the PAX 3 has you covered.
Maintenance and Additional Supplies
- 𧽠Cleaning is a Chore: Cleaning the PAX 3 can be tedious due to its heating chamber screen. Regular cleaning is essential for optimal performance.
π Overall Score
Impressive vapor. Easy to use. Compact. Affordable. The PAX 3 ticks a lot of boxes which is why it is one of the most popular weed vapes on the planet. Is it the best? No. But it is damn good.
- π Battery Life: The PAX 3 has a 3500mAh battery, a significant step up from the PAX 2’s 3000mAh. More vaping, less charging.
- π² Bluetooth Connectivity: The PAX 3 adds Bluetooth, allowing for app-based customization. This is a new feature compared to the PAX 2.
- π¬οΈ Core Features: Many essentials like vapor quality and design are similar between the PAX 2 and PAX 3.
- πΏ Best for Serious Vapers: If you’re serious about vaping weed, the PAX 3 is a top-tier choice.
The PAX 3 has earned itself a score of 4.0/5.0, falling under the “Pretty Good” category. Now, let’s unpack what that really means.
An 4.0 isn’t a perfect score, but it’s a strong endorsement of the device’s overall quality and performance.
In my years of using the PAX 3, I’ve found that it lives up to this rating.
It excels in several areas like battery life, heat-up time, and customization through its app. These features make it a standout choice for many users, myself included.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The device’s ability to handle concentrates is good but not great, and the new glossy finish, while sleek, is a fingerprint magnet.
So, is the PAX 3 the right choice for you? If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and customizable vaporizer for mainly dry herbs, then absolutely.
It’s a solid investment that delivers on many fronts, making it deserving of its 4.0 score.
But if you’re a concentrate enthusiast or someone who’s very particular about aesthetic upkeep, you might find some room for improvement.
In the grand scheme of things, an 4.0 rating means the PAX 3 has a lot to offer but also leaves some room for refinement.
It’s a solid choice for many, but as with any product, it’s essential to consider what features are most important to you.
Alternatives and Price Consideration
π Alternatives
For better vapor production, consider the Mighty+. If you already own a PAX 2, the DaVinci IQ 2 offers something unique because it runs on removable 18650 batteries and has an adjustable AFC
π° Price Consideration
Upgrading from the PAX 2 to the PAX 3 may not be justified for everyone. There are cheaper, quality alternatives like the DaVinci IQC.
π― Target Audience
If you’re budget-conscious but still want quality, check out the DaVinci IQC β it’s great, packing all the features of the IQ 2 just minus the adjustable AFC.
Final Thoughts
Key Takeaways:
- π Battery Life: The PAX 3 has a 3500mAh battery, a significant step up from the PAX 2’s 3000mAh. More vaping, less charging.
- π² Bluetooth Connectivity: The PAX 3 adds Bluetooth, allowing for app-based customization. This is a new feature compared to the PAX 2.
- π¬οΈ Core Features: Many essentials like vapor quality and design are similar between the PAX 2 and PAX 3.
- π€ Upgrade Consideration: If you’re happy with your PAX 2, think twice before upgrading to the PAX 3.
- πΏ Best for Serious Vapers: If you’re serious about vaping weed, the PAX 3 is a top-tier choice.
- π Evolution, Not Revolution: The PAX 3 is an evolutionary upgrade from the PAX 2, not a complete game-changer.
Is The PAX 3 Worth It?
The question of whether to upgrade from the PAX 2 to the PAX 3 is one I’ve pondered myself. On the surface, the PAX 3 offers several enticing upgrades, notably in battery life and Bluetooth connectivity.
The 3500mAh battery is a significant step up from the PAX 2’s 3000mAh, and the Bluetooth feature opens up a new realm of customization that simply wasn’t possible with the PAX 2.
However, it’s essential to note that many of the core features remain the same. The vapor quality, the design, and the overall user experience are quite similar between the two models.
So, if you’re already a PAX 2 owner, the decision to upgrade isn’t as straightforward as it might seem.
For me, the PAX 3’s enhanced features make it one of the best options for serious weed vapers. The improved battery life alone has been a game-changer in my daily use, and the app’s customization features have enriched my vaping experience.
But if you already own a PAX 2 and are satisfied with its performance, you might want to think twice before making the switch.
The PAX 3 is undoubtedly an improvement, but it’s more of an evolution than a revolution. If the PAX 2 is meeting all your needs, the upgrades, while nice, might not be enough to justify the investment.
In summary, the PAX 3 is a fantastic device with meaningful upgrades over the PAX 2. But the decision to upgrade should be based on your specific needs and what you’re looking to get out of your vaping experience.
If you’re serious about vaping weed and want the latest features, the PAX 3 is a top-tier choice. But if you’re content with your PAX 2, you might find the new features to be enhancements rather than necessities.
Impressive vapor. Easy to use. Compact. Affordable. The PAX 3 ticks a lot of boxes which is why it is one of the most popular weed vapes on the planet. Is it the best? No. But it is damn good.
- π Battery Life: The PAX 3 has a 3500mAh battery, a significant step up from the PAX 2’s 3000mAh. More vaping, less charging.
- π² Bluetooth Connectivity: The PAX 3 adds Bluetooth, allowing for app-based customization. This is a new feature compared to the PAX 2.
- π¬οΈ Core Features: Many essentials like vapor quality and design are similar between the PAX 2 and PAX 3.
- πΏ Best for Serious Vapers: If you’re serious about vaping weed, the PAX 3 is a top-tier choice.