DaVinci IQ3 vs Pax Plus: Which Is Better & Why?

DaVinci IQ3 vs Pax PlusPin

The Pax Plus is well known and popular with beginner users. But is the newer DaVinci IQ3 a better option? Let’s compare the two vaporizers and find out, shall we?


TL;DR: Which Is Best – Davinci IQ3 or Pax Plus?

The DaVinci IQ3 has the Pax Plus well and truly whipped when it comes to flavor and overall performance. Its zirconia ceramic vapor path preserves the purity of each hit, delivering unmatched taste, while the precise temperature control allows you to fine-tune your sessions to perfection.

Add in the swappable 21700 battery, and you get the flexibility for longer sessions without downtime. If you’re after premium vapor quality, full control over your experience, and the ability to tweak every aspect of your vape, the IQ3 is the clear winner.


DaVinci and Pax are two of the oldest names in the vaporizer game. Pax recently updated its flagship with the Pax Plus, and now DaVinci is firing back with the new IQ3.

If you’re looking for a portable, fairly affordable weed vaporizer, you’ve probably come across the PAX Plus and DaVinci IQ series.

Davinci IQ3 featuresPin
The DaVinci IQ3
DaVinci IQ3 vs Pax Plus: Which Is Better & Why?Pin
The Pax Plus

But which one’s better? Well, that depends on a few factors, and I’m not going to pretend I know exactly what you’re after.

Industry Insight:

The DaVinci IQ3 builds on strengths offered by the IQ2 by featuring an enlarged chamber, allowing for improved vapor production. With temperatures reaching up to 430Β°F and enhanced airflow, it delivers exceptional performance, making it perfect for cloud production – Tyler, To The Cloud Vapor Store.

So, let’s break down how they stack up in terms of performance and features.

After that, I’ll share my hot take based on extensive use and give you my two cents on which I think is the better choice.

DaVinci IQ3 vs Pax Plus: Which Should You Get?

πŸ—οΈ Design and Build

Feature DaVinci IQ3 Pax Plus
Shape Compact rectangular with rounded edges Sleek, elongated design
Body Material Brushed aluminum Anodized aluminum
Battery Removable 18650 Built-in
Vapor Path Zirconia ceramic Stainless steel
Weight 159g 93g

The IQ3 has a more substantial feel, while the Pax Plus is notably lighter and more pocket-friendly.

πŸ” Takeaway: Choose the IQ3 for a premium, robust feel and customizable battery options. Opt for the Pax Plus if ultra-portability is your priority. The IQ3’s ceramic vapor path might offer purer flavor, but the Pax Plus’s stainless steel path is more durable.

🌑️ Heating System and Performance

Feature DaVinci IQ3 Pax Plus
Heating Type Conduction Hybrid conduction/convection
Temperature Range 320Β°F – 430Β°F (160Β°C – 221Β°C) 360Β°F – 420Β°F (182Β°C – 215Β°C)
Heat-up Time 30-40 seconds 15-20 seconds
Airflow Adjustable via dial Fixed

The Pax Plus heats up faster, but the IQ3 offers more precise temperature control and adjustable airflow.

πŸ” Takeaway: The IQ3 is ideal for flavor chasers and those who like to fine-tune their experience with precise temperature control and adjustable airflow. The Pax Plus, with its faster heat-up time and hybrid heating, is perfect for quick sessions and consistent vapor production.

🍜 Oven and Capacity

Feature DaVinci IQ3 Pax Plus
Oven Material Ceramic Stainless steel
Capacity 0.5g 0.5g
Adjustable Oven Yes, with dosage pod Yes, with half-pack lid

Both devices offer ways to reduce oven size for smaller sessions.

πŸ” Takeaway: Both vaporizers offer flexibility for session size. The IQ3’s ceramic oven might provide slightly better flavor, while the Pax Plus’s stainless steel oven could offer more even heating. Consider your preference for taste vs. consistency when choosing.

πŸ”‹ Battery Life and Charging

Feature DaVinci IQ3 Pax Plus
Battery Removable 3500mAh 18650 Built-in 3000mAh
Charging USB-C USB-C
Usage Time 60-90 minutes 90-110 minutes
Charge Time 2-3 hours 2-3 hours

The IQ3’s removable battery allows for quick swaps, while the Pax Plus offers slightly longer battery life per charge.

πŸ” Takeaway: For heavy users or those always on-the-go, the IQ3’s swappable battery is a significant advantage. However, if you prefer a sleeker device and don’t mind recharging between sessions, the Pax Plus’s slightly longer battery life might be more appealing.

πŸ’¨ Vapor Quality

DaVinci IQ3:

  • Known for excellent flavor preservation
  • Cooler vapor due to zirconia ceramic components
  • Adjustable airflow for customized draws

Pax Plus:

  • Good flavor, especially on lower temperatures
  • Vapor can be warmer due to shorter vapor path
  • Consistent vapor production

The IQ3 generally edges out in terms of flavor, while the Pax Plus offers more consistent vapor density.

πŸ” Takeaway: Flavor enthusiasts will likely prefer the IQ3 for its superior taste preservation and cooler vapor. Those who prioritize consistency and don’t mind slightly warmer vapor might lean towards the Pax Plus. Consider your tolerance for heat and importance of flavor when deciding.

πŸ€– Smart Features and App Support

DaVinci IQ3:

  • Built-in dosage calculation
  • Adjustable session length
  • Smartphone app for iOS and Android
  • Customizable Smart Paths

Pax Plus:

  • Dynamic modes (Standard, Stealth, Boost, Efficiency)
  • Smartphone app for Android (iOS via web app)
  • Haptic feedback

Both offer app support, but the Pax Plus has more integrated smart features without the app.

πŸ” Takeaway: The IQ3 offers more customization through its app, making it ideal for tech-savvy users who enjoy fine-tuning their experience. The Pax Plus, with its built-in dynamic modes, is great for those who want smart features without relying on an app. Consider your comfort with technology and desire for customization when choosing.

🧼 Cleaning and Maintenance

DaVinci IQ3:

  • Removable vapor path for easy cleaning
  • Included cleaning tools

Pax Plus:

  • Requires more frequent cleaning
  • Smaller parts can be more challenging to clean

The IQ3 is generally easier to maintain due to its modular design.

πŸ” Takeaway: If you value easy maintenance and don’t mind spending a bit more time on occasional deep cleans, the IQ3 is your best bet. For those who prefer quick wipe-downs but don’t mind more frequent cleaning sessions, the Pax Plus could work well. Consider your cleaning habits and patience level when deciding.

πŸ’° Price

The DaVinci IQ3 is typically priced slightly higher than the Pax Plus, reflecting its more advanced features and removable battery design.

πŸ” Takeaway: The IQ3’s higher price point is justified by its removable battery, precise controls, and superior flavor production. The Pax Plus offers great value with its sleek design and smart features. Consider your budget and which features you’re willing to pay extra for when making your decision.

Is The DaVinci IQ3 Actually Better Than The PAX Plus?

Davinci IQ3 colorsPin

I used the PAX Plus for a solid few months when it came out; you can check out my PAX Plus review for more details. Like the PAX 3, it’s a solid vaporizer that gets the job done. But it isn’t brilliant. 

The heat-up times are rapid, sure, and it is super compact. But it doesn’t pack much of a punch in the vapor output department, and its non-removable battery and slow charging speeds mean your sessions are often cut short. 

The DaVinci IQ3, on the other hand, is a league above the PAX; it’s more inline with the kind of performance you get on vaporizers like the Crafty+ and Mighty. Is it as good as these? No, not quite. 

But in this context, the DaVinci IQ3 is the clear victor and the one to go for.

And I’m not alone in this train of thought either; my good buddy Tyler from To The Cloud reckons much the same:

The DaVinci IQ3 builds on strengths offered by the IQ2 by featuring an enlarged chamber, allowing for improved vapor production. With temperatures reaching up to 430Β°F and enhanced airflow, it delivers exceptional performance, making it perfect for  cloud production – Tyler, To The Cloud Store

Why? Here’s three simple ways it has the PAX Plus whipped: 

  • Battery Life – The DaVinci IQ3’s battery performance is around 20% better than the Pax Plus. But the IQ3 also comes with a removable battery, so you can hot-swap 21700 batteries which means you can continue using it while the other charges. Game changer. 
  • Performance (Vapor Production) – With its focus on flavor and its zirconia ceramic components, the flavor the IQ3 pumps out runs rings around what you get with the PAX Plus. The IQ3 also has an adjustable airflow control, so you can augment how it draws. 
  • Easier To Clean – Pax vaporizers are a pain in the butt to clean. And you do have to clean your vaporizers, otherwise they get clogged up. The IQ3 comes apart really simply and is actually way easier to clean than before. DaVinci even includes all the cleaning stuff you need in the box. 

Bottom line? The choice is clear, really. The best option out of these two vaporizers is the DaVinci IQ3. It has the PAX Plus whipped in nearly every measurable way – from flavor to battery life to performance. 

Best Deals & Prices

The IQ3 costs more, a hundred bucks more, but I’d argue it is worth the extra money. From the flavor to the battery life, it just brings WAY more performance and utility to the party. And when it comes to portable vaporizers, that’s the name of the game!


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