MC, Author at Vaporizer Critics https://vaporizercritics.com/author/mc/ Thu, 13 Jul 2023 08:24:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://vaporizercritics.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/cropped-facebook-default-32x32.jpg MC, Author at Vaporizer Critics https://vaporizercritics.com/author/mc/ 32 32 Davinci ARTIQ Vaporizer ❄️ 510 oil vape launch https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-artiq-510-vape/ https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-artiq-510-vape/#respond Mon, 12 Jun 2023 13:04:00 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5943 Get ready for the DaVinci ARTIQ, a super cool new player in the world of 510 oil cartridge vaporizers. This isn’t your typical vape pen – it’s an ultra-cooling portable cartridge vaporizer that brings together the latest Davinci technology and easy use – combined with Davinci’s beautiful design and engineering. The Davinci ARTIQ brings fresh […]

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Get ready for the DaVinci ARTIQ, a super cool new player in the world of 510 oil cartridge vaporizers. This isn’t your typical vape pen – it’s an ultra-cooling portable cartridge vaporizer that brings together the latest Davinci technology and easy use – combined with Davinci’s beautiful design and engineering.

The Davinci ARTIQ brings fresh innovation to the tired 510 “vape pen” product marketplace. DaVinci has reimagined and elevated how a common cartridge should be vaped.

MC – VaporizerCritics.com

What’s in the Davinci ARTIQ Box?

The DaVinci ARTIQ comes with a comprehensive package to enhance your vaping experience. The box includes the following:

  • 1 x Davinci ARTIQ vaporizer device
  • 1 x USB-C Cable for fast easy charging
  • 1 x additional extended mouthpiece (similar to IQ lineup)
  • Alcohol wipes & pipe cleaners for ongoing maintenance
  • 1 x extra gasket seals for oil cartridge compatibility
  • 2 x magnetic 510 threaded cartridge collars
  • 2 x Davinci Stickers for lifestyle decoration
  • 1 x Owner’s Manual / setup guide to explain the operation

Davinci ARTIQ Features

The Davinci ARTIQ is a vape pen – reimagined in portable vaporizer form. The average 510 vape for an oil cartridge is a pen or stick battery that the oil cartridge would screw on top of the battery. The end form is very pen-like. The Davinci ARTIQ takes this basic functionality and re-imagines the technology to deliver a more refined product in both function and appearance.

  1. Compatible with bottom airflow 510 Cartridges: The Davinci ARTIQ offers versatility and compatibility with a wide range of common oil cartridges that fit on a 510 thread. Anything from CBD, THC, Delta 8&9 variants.
  2. Extended air path lowers the temperature of vapor: The elongated airpath in the Davinci ARTIQ reduces vapor temperature by a reported 90%. This will make for a better, more flavorful, and less harsh experience
  3. Hidden oil cartridge: The compact design of the ARTIQ hides the oil cartridge, preventing oil quality deterioration, flavor loss, and secrecy.
  4. Type-C USB Charging: The device uses a Type-C USB charging port for convenient and fast charging.
  5. 1-Year Warranty: The ARTIQ has a 1-year warranty, demonstrating Davinci’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Specifications

Brand / Manufacturer:DaVinci Vaporizer
Compatible with:most 510 oil cartridges with bottom air-flow. All commonly available types of CBD, THC, Delta 8, and Delta 9.
Capacity:Unknown
Battery:510 connection. Unknown mAh. Rechargeable
Charging:USB-C. Unknown charging time. Pass-through compatible so you can charge while in use.
Price:$59 MSRP
Temperature Control:Pre-heat function and 3 heat levels of volts delivered. 2.8v, 3.2v and 3.6 volts
Materials Used:Polished Aluminum, Stainless steel, plastic
Haptic Feedback:Yes
Automatic shut-off:Unknown
Dimensions:95mm x 39mm x 19mm
Weight:68 grams
Warranty:1 year

Where to buy Davinci ARTIQ?

The DaVinci ARTIQ was launched to the public on the 14th of June, 2023. Early adopters are able to buy the Davinci ARTIQ Vaporizer directly from Davinci Vaporizers’ official website ONLY. It will be sold exclusively through their official store until further notice. Watch here for further updates.

What is the price of the Davinci ARTIQ?

$59 MSRP Manufacturer’s suggested retail price. Currently, you can save 10% with the code “NEW10”.

Davinci ARTIQ discounts and coupons

As a new product launch that is only available via their official store, the immediate discount and coupon code options are near impossible. Suppose you don’t mind waiting a few weeks. In that case, more retailers will inevitably receive inventory and offer the Davinci ARTIQ for sale also, and the other online vaporizer retailers usually have opportunities for larger discounts.

Check out our friends at 420 Coupon Codes for today’s verified Davinci Vaporizer Coupon Codes list. For now, the best discount available on the ARTIQ is 10% off.

10% Off

Coupon Code: New10

Performance and details

Compatibility & Terminology

  1. 510 thread: This is a type of threading that is a standard in the vaping industry. The “510” part of the name refers to the threading specification, which is used to connect the cartridge to the battery. This is a universal standard.
  2. Bottom airflow: This describes the way air flows into the cartridge. With a bottom airflow design, air enters the cartridge from the bottom, passes over the heating element (which vaporizes the oil), and then the vapor travels up through the mouthpiece to be inhaled. This type of airflow is thought to improve flavor and the overall vaping experience because it allows for a smoother and cooler vape.
  3. Oil Cartridge: This refers to the type of substance the cartridge is designed for. In this case, it’s designed for vaping oils, which can include CBD oil, THC oil, Delta 8 / Delta 9, or other types of oils. These cartridges usually consist of a chamber for the oil, and a heating element or coil.

Overall, a 510-thread bottom airflow oil cartridge is a piece of vaping hardware. You fill it (or buy it) with the oil of your choice, attach it to a 510-threaded battery, and you’re ready to vape.

Air Path & Cooling

Davinci is reporting a 90% heat reduction on the overall heat of the inhaled vapor. This is due to an elongated or extended “air path” creating a passive cooling of the heated vapor.

When you’re vaping, the substance you’re vaporizing gets heated up to a high temperature to vaporize in order to turn it into an inhalable vapor. The distance between the heating element and your mouth is known as the “air path”.

Now, if that air path is short, the vapor has less time and space to cool down before it reaches your mouth, which can result in a hotter, harsher inhale. On the other hand, if the air path is longer, the vapor has more time and distance to cool down before you inhale it. Every millimeter the hot vapor travels, allows the vapor to cool down. This is usually accomplished with a spiral, or maze design internally.

A longer air path essentially gives the vapor more ‘time and space’ to cool down before it hits your mouth and lungs, making the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. This concept is often applied to larger vaping devices like desktop vaporizers, which can afford to have a longer air path without sacrificing portability. Smaller devices, it is much more difficult to achieve because of such limited space. A typical portable vape pen has a tiny, almost negligible air path due to its compact design.

This is where the experience in design and manufacturing from Davinci Vaporizer excels above the marketplace. The ability to maximize those internal spaces and deliver a top-shelf product.

Heating System & temperature modes

The ARTIQ is unlike all other Davinci Vaporizer products in its heating system and temperature control. In other Davinci Vaporizer products like Davinci Ascent, Davinci Miqro, Davinci IQ, Davinci IQC, and Davinci IQ2 – you can dial in the precise temperature you want to heat your material to.

The ARTIQ does not offer precision temperature control. It is not heating an oven for ground dry herbs.

Instead, the Davinci ARTIQ provides 3 different heat settings via voltage regulation and intensity. Essentially, a Low, Medium, and High setting of the battery output. You can choose between 2.8 volts, 3.2 volts, and 3.6 volts.

This incremental voltage variation is common in higher-quality traditional vape pen batteries.

Materials used

The external shell of the Davinci ARTIQ is made of high-quality aluminum. Internally the carriage and housing is plastic, and the extended air path and magnetic cartridge connections are all medical-grade stainless steel.

Charging Time

The Davinci ARTIQ takes about 90 minutes to fully charge from 0 to 100. It uses a USB Type-C charging cable. This is far superior to most vape pen batteries.

In my experience, most vape pen batteries require a micro-USB cable (which is inferior in speed and wattage), or they require an awkward USB-A adapter that you screw your 510 battery into. The entire traditional charging technology of common vape pen batteries is awful compared to a well-designed and strong USB-C port. This again points to the beauty of this device.

Additionally, the USB-C charging system is designed to utilize pass-through technology. Pass-through allows you to use the product while it is charging.

This is not common in most \portable vaporizers in the world, and absolutely rare among traditional vape products in general.

Battery

Davinci ARTIQ houses a 760 mAh battery. Depending on voltage settings, and how big of hits you take – the battery is designed to last 250-400 draws per charge.

Warranty

The Davinci ARTIQ has a one-year warranty. Now while this may initially seem like a disappointment in comparison to the other Davinci products, but I can help you to understand why 1 year is very reasonable.

When you buy a “top-shelf” flagship vaporizer like the Davinci IQ2, you get a 10-year warranty. That is baked into the $300 flagship price.

At $59 MSRP, this is a price entry point much more accessible to every person. And because there are literally a million different types of oil cartridges, manufacturers, and compounds – the variables to warranty and protect against is overwhelming. There are dozens of reasons that a 3rd party product or human error could create a problem – completely outside the quality control of Davinci’s responsibility.

As an owner of numerous vape pen batteries, I can’t think of a single instance where one was warranted longer than 90 days.

A 1-year warranty, on a $59 product with Davinci’s reputation is acceptable to me.

Davinci ARTIQ Conclusion

In conclusion, Davinci’s new ARTIQ vaporizer is a great new piece of gear. I would not hesitate to buy one for my tool kit. I will never want to use a traditional vape pen battery system ever again.

The Davinci ARTIQ brings fresh innovation to the tired 510 “vape pen” product marketplace. DaVinci has reimagined and elevated how a common cartridge should be vaped.

Here’s why:

  1. USB-C Charging power, convenience, and pass-through technology allow use while charging.
  2. Extended / Elongated air path for cooler vapor entering your lungs. This allows for more flavor and bigger hits.
  3. Enclosed hidden cartridge. No more shattered oil carts, or flavor deterioration from sunlight, or broadcasting what you’re vaping.

Davinci has taken one of the most overlooked and common cannabis items to be sold around the world and made it better through innovation in design and engineering.

The quality of the components, the price of manufacturing, the logistics of distribution and fulfillment, all add up to a product that should cost more than $59. This new product not only re-invents the vape cartridge ecosystem but introduces an entirely new avatar of buyers to the Davinci vaporizer lineup.

I don’t rave about many products, but I am fully recommending Davinci ARTIQ as a substantial upgrade to anyone that likes cartridge vape pens.

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How Old Do You Have to Be to Buy a Vape in 2023? https://vaporizercritics.com/how-old-do-you-have-to-be-to-buy-a-vape-in-2023/ https://vaporizercritics.com/how-old-do-you-have-to-be-to-buy-a-vape-in-2023/#respond Wed, 24 May 2023 06:13:25 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5806 As vaping continues to gain popularity, it’s more important than ever to understand the age regulations surrounding its use. To ensure responsible use and avoid penalties, it’s important to know how old you have to be to buy a vape, as these rules vary widely by country. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different […]

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As vaping continues to gain popularity, it’s more important than ever to understand the age regulations surrounding its use. To ensure responsible use and avoid penalties, it’s important to know how old you have to be to buy a vape, as these rules vary widely by country. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different age regulations for vaping across the globe and discuss the classification of vaping products, as well as the penalties and enforcement of these laws.

Short Summary

  • Understanding vaping regulations is essential for users and retailers worldwide, with the legal age to purchase vape products ranging from 16-21.
  • Vape devices may contain e-liquids, nicotine, cannabis, or CBD. Local regulations should be followed.
  • Penalties are enforced to protect minors from purchasing vaping products and promote responsible use of nicotine products.

Understanding Vaping Age Regulations Worldwide

Young people vaping indoors in public can create problems for business owners
Young people vaping indoors in public can create problems for business owners

Vaping age regulations differ from country to country, making it essential for both users and retailers to be aware of the legal age requirements in their area. The rationale behind setting different age limits often lies in the desire to limit access to tobacco or vaping products for adolescents, protecting them from potential adverse health effects.

In the United States former president Trump voted to raise the legal age for purchasing and using vape products is 21. This also appears to be affecting new restrictive legislation in other communities around the world as they look to the US example.

However, other countries may have different age requirements, such as Canada, where the legal age is set at 19. European countries range from 16 to 20 years old in their legal vaping age.

Furthermore, the United Kingdom, Asia-Pacific, Latin American, and African countries all have their own respective laws governing the legal age for vaping.

United States Vaping Age Laws

In the United States, the federal Tobacco 21 law sets the minimum age for purchasing vape products at 21 years old. This law was passed with the intention of deterring teenage vaping and protecting young people from the potential risks associated with nicotine use.

However, some states, such as Alabama, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Massachusetts, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Washington, and Wyoming, have established their own vaping age requirements. These state-specific laws can be more stringent than the federal Tobacco 21 law, resulting in varying penalties for retailers who sell to underage buyers.

For instance, retailers may face fines, license revocation or suspension, and even criminal charges for selling tobacco products, including vaping devices, to individuals under the legal age. Here is a full list of vaping bans in the United States.

The Tobacco 21 law in the United States doesn’t impose penalties on individuals under the age of 21 for buying, using, or possessing vaping products. Instead, the law focuses on sanctioning retailers who sell these devices and accessories to underage customers. Prior local laws that allowed specific groups, such as military personnel, to vape at a younger age are no longer valid due to this modification in federal tobacco legislation.

Canada Vaping Age Laws

A sign in North Vancouver Canada park warning of vaping ban in parks and trails.
A sign in North Vancouver Canada park warning of vaping ban in parks and trails.

In Canada, the minimum legal age for vaping is 18 years old, although some provinces have set their age restriction at 19-21. This discrepancy can lead to confusion for both users and retailers, making it crucial to stay informed about the specific regulations in each province.

One province sets the legal age to buy vaping equipment at 21 years old.

  • Prince Edward Island

These 3 provinces set the legal age for vaping at 19 years old:

  • British Columbia
  • Ontario
  • Saskatchewan

The remaining Canadian provinces and territories set the legal age to purchase Vapes at 18 years old.

AlbertaManitobaNew Brunswick
Newfoundland and LabradorNova ScotiaQuebec
Northwest TerritoriesNunavutYukon

Retailers who sell to underage buyers in Canada may face penalties similar to those in the United States, including fines and the potential closure of their establishments. For users, awareness of the legal age in their province is essential to avoid potential consequences and ensure the responsible use of vaping products.

Europe Vaping Age Restrictions

In Europe, the legal age to purchase a vape varies between 16 and 20 years old, depending on the country. In Germany, the sale of e-cigarettes is prohibited to individuals under the age of 18. In most European countries, however, the minimum legal age for vaping is set at 18 years old.

European Union (EU) rules regarding e-cigarettes mandate that they must be labeled with health warnings specifying the presence of nicotine. Furthermore, the laws state that any form of cross-border advertising and promotion of e-cigarettes is strictly forbidden.

Turkey is among the most stringent countries in Europe on vaping. The purchase of vaping devices or e-liquids within the country is not possible, as no product has successfully received a license. However, using the devices and e-liquids you have carried along is permissible, provided that usage does not occur indoors or on public transportation. Although a complete ban on vaping isn’t in place, these restrictions make it somewhat challenging.

The following EU countries all allow the sale of vaping equipment to people 18 years or older:

SpainFranceItaly
GermanyGreecePortugal
TurkeyThe NetherlandsCroatia
CzechiaBelgiumBulgaria
IcelandNorwaySweden

This wide range of legal vaping ages across Europe highlights the need for users and retailers to be aware of the specific regulations in their countries. Failing to adhere to these regulations can result in penalties for both parties, making it essential to stay informed and act responsibly.

United Kingdom (UK) Vaping Age Restrictions

In the United Kingdom, the minimum age requirement for purchasing a vape is 18 years old. While no explicit answer remains regarding the legal age for vaping in the UK, it is clear that the sale of e-cigarettes to minors is prohibited.

Furthermore, the use of e-cigarettes is restricted in enclosed public spaces in the UK. This means that vaping is not allowed in bars, restaurants, and other workplaces, protecting non-users from potential exposure to secondhand vapor.

Asia-Pacific Vaping Age Requirements

The Asia-Pacific region also has a variety of legal vaping ages, depending on the country. For example, the minimum age for vaping in South Korea is 19, while in China, it is 18. Australia and New Zealand both have a minimum vaping age of 18, and Japan sets the legal age at 20.

In some countries, such as Vietnam and Cambodia, the sale of e-cigarettes is permitted, but their use is not subject to regulation. By contrast, Thailand has enacted strict penalties for vaping, with imprisonment for up to 10 years as a potential consequence.

These varying regulations underscore the importance of understanding the legal vaping age in each country, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply.

Latin America Vaping Age Policies

A warning sign in Spanish prohibiting smoking, and allowing vaping.
A warning sign in Spanish prohibiting smoking, and allowing vaping.

In Latin America, the legal vaping age varies, with countries like Chile, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Honduras, and Paraguay setting the minimum age at 18. However, some countries in the region, such as Argentina, Brazil, Panama, and Venezuela, have prohibited the sale of e-cigarettes altogether.

While e-cigarette regulations are often subject to local enforcement, it’s not uncommon to see vape shops in areas where they are technically prohibited. Across all territories, only five regions explicitly legalize and permit the sale of e-cigarettes: Chile, Ecuador, Honduras, Paraguay, and Costa Rica.

As with other regions, it is essential for both users and retailers in Latin America to be aware of the specific vaping age regulations in their country, as well as any additional restrictions that may apply. Staying informed will help ensure responsible use and avoid potential penalties.

Africa Vaping Age Regulations

In Africa, the legal vaping age varies by country, with South Africa & Egypt setting the minimum age at 18. Some countries, such as Tanzania, have prohibited the sale of e-cigarettes. Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, & UAE all recently removed vaping bans, and appear to be warming to the products.

In some African countries, vapes are regulated as tobacco products, which subjects them to the same laws and restrictions. In others, they are entirely unregulated, making their use a bit of a grey area legally.

As with other regions, understanding the specific vaping age regulations in African countries is crucial for users and retailers. Staying informed about these regulations will help ensure responsible use and compliance with local laws, avoiding potential penalties and negative consequences.

Vaping Products and Their Classification

Different regions use classifications of vaping products and vape devices on possession and sales
Different regions use classifications of vaping products and vape devices on possession and sales

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies vaping products as tobacco products, which include e-cigarettes, vape batteries, and chargers. As a result, these products are subject to the same age laws as traditional tobacco products. This classification also extends to non-nicotine vaping products, which means that the legal age for purchasing and using these products is the same as for nicotine-containing vaping products.

Other items included in this classification include Dissolvable tobacco products, menthol, and other flavored tobacco, Hookah/Shisha, Nicotine Gels, and smokeless tobacco items like dip, snuff, snus, and chewing tobacco. When it comes to E-cigarettes, vaporizers, and vapes, the FDA considers these all (ENDS) Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems.

While the FDA’s classification may seem broad, it is designed to regulate the sale and use of vaping products effectively. By treating non-nicotine vaping products in the same manner as nicotine-containing products, the FDA aims to ensure that all vaping products are used responsibly and within the confines of the law.

FDA’s Stance on Vaping Products

The FDA has taken a firm stance on vaping products by classifying them as tobacco products and imposing limitations on their sale and use. This classification encompasses e-cigarettes, e-liquids, vape pens, and other vaping materials. As a result, these products are subject to the same regulations as traditional tobacco products, such as age restrictions and advertising limitations.

The FDA’s position on vaping products has significant implications for both users and retailers. By classifying vaping products as tobacco products, the FDA aims to ensure that these products are used responsibly and in accordance with the law. This classification also helps protect young people from the potential risks associated with nicotine use.

In the United States, the legal age for purchasing and using non-nicotine vaping products is the same as for nicotine-containing vaping products, which is 21 years old. This age requirement applies regardless of whether the vaping product contains nicotine or not, as the FDA classifies all vaping products as tobacco products.

This uniform age requirement ensures that all vaping products, including those without nicotine, are used responsibly and in accordance with the law. By imposing the same age restrictions on non-nicotine vaping products, the FDA aims to deter underage use and protect young people from potential health risks associated with vaping.

Vaping Regulations in Public Spaces

A public sign stating NO smoking and NO Vaping.
A public sign stating NO smoking and NO Vaping.

Vaping is generally prohibited in public indoor spaces in the United States and other countries, with certain exceptions. Some states and countries have enacted specific laws to restrict vaping in public spaces, such as enclosed workplaces, bars, and restaurants.

Outdoors, the regulations are largely dependent on where you are. Vaping outside on a public street is usually going to be completely legal. In a park controlled by the city? That is likely to be prohibited. Are you outdoors, but a privately owned concert venue or shopping mall? Probably prohibited. Use your best judgement and familiarize yourself with the probable ownership of the outdoor space.

These restrictions are designed to protect non-users from potential exposure to secondhand vapor and promote a smoke-free environment.

In addition to these public space restrictions, some states and countries have also implemented regulations on oil-based vape substances due to the outbreak of e-cigarette, or vaping, product use-associated lung injury (EVALI). These regulations aim to ensure the safety and quality of vaping products and protect users from potential health risks.

Public Space Vaping Bans in the United States

Across the United States, various states have implemented bans on vaping in public spaces. For example, in Rhode Island, the use of vapes is prohibited in locations where smoking is prohibited, with a few exceptions. In Utah, vaping is not allowed in any locations where smoking is prohibited, and it is also illegal to vape in vehicles with passengers under 15 years of age.

These vaping bans in public spaces are designed to protect non-users from potential exposure to secondhand vapor and maintain a smoke-free environment. It is essential for vapers to be aware of these restrictions in their state and adhere to them to avoid potential penalties and ensure responsible use.

International Vaping Regulations in Public Spaces

Internationally, vaping regulations in public spaces also vary by country. In 25 countries, including many in Europe, vaping is prohibited in enclosed public spaces, such as bars, restaurants, and other workplaces. These restrictions are designed to protect non-users from potential exposure to secondhand vapor and promote a smoke-free environment.

As with the United States, it is crucial for vapers to be aware of the specific vaping regulations in their country and adhere to them to avoid potential penalties and ensure responsible use. By staying informed about these regulations, vapers can contribute to a healthier and safer environment for everyone.

Substances Allowed in Vape Devices

A person loading a vape atomizer & tank with vape juice
A person loading a vape atomizer & tank with vape juice

Substances that can be vaped include e-liquids with or without nicotine, cannabis, and CBD vapes. However, some states and countries have implemented regulations on oil-based vape substances due to the outbreak of EVALI. These regulations are designed to ensure the safety and quality of vaping products, as well as protect users from potential health risks associated with vaping.

While there is a range of substances that can be used in vape devices, it is essential for users to be aware of the specific regulations governing these substances in their area. This will help ensure responsible use and compliance with local laws, avoiding potential penalties and negative consequences.

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Check out the most popular different types of bangers in the world

Regulations on Oil-Based Vape Substances

The FDA has implemented regulations for the manufacture, import, packaging, labeling, advertising, promotion, sale, and distribution of electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) and their components, including oil-based vape substances. These regulations are intended to guarantee the safety and quality of these products, as well as protect users from potential health risks associated with vaping.

For retailers, these regulations require age verification for customers purchasing oil-based vape substances and prohibit the sale of such products to minors. Distributors must also ensure that oil-based vape substances are not distributed to retailers who fail to comply with age verification requirements and are not sold to minors.

By adhering to these regulations, retailers and distributors can help ensure responsible use of vaping products and compliance with the law.

Penalties and Enforcement of Vaping Age Laws

Retailers risk heavy fines, license issues, and even criminal charges for selling vaping products to minors, enforcing age regulations. Underage buyers could face consequences like driver’s license suspension or loss of student aid. These penalties, enforced by authorities, aim to encourage responsible vaping and protect youth from potential health risks associated with nicotine.

Penalties for Retailers

Retailers who sell vaping products to underage buyers may face significant penalties, including fines, license revocation or suspension, and potentially criminal charges. The exact penalties may vary by state but could include fines of up to $1,000 and revocation of the business license. These penalties serve as a deterrent for retailers who might consider selling vaping products to minors, ensuring that age regulations are enforced.

By imposing these penalties on retailers, authorities aim to protect young people from the potential risks associated with nicotine use and promote the responsible use of vaping products. Retailers must be vigilant in verifying the age of their customers and adhere to the laws governing the sale of vaping products to avoid facing these penalties.

Consequences for Underage Buyers

A police officer issuing a fine to a teen for underage vaping
A police officer issuing a fine to a teen for underage vaping

Underage buyers who purchase vaping products may face consequences such as suspension of their driver’s license or forfeiture of student financial aid. These consequences are designed to discourage young people from attempting to purchase vaping products and to encourage responsible use.

In addition to these consequences, using nicotine during adolescence can detrimentally impact the areas of the brain responsible for regulating attention, learning, mood, and impulse control. By enforcing these penalties and consequences, authorities aim to protect young people from these potential health risks and promote the responsible use of vaping products.

In general, what we have found is that most laws and restrictions are aimed at the retailers, and not the user. Your government and law enforcement is likely more concerned about stopping the sale of vaping products at the store level. However, any underage use can be used by LEOs as probable cause to cite, fine, or search for other infractions.

Summary

In conclusion, understanding the various vaping age regulations and the classification of vaping products is crucial to ensure responsible use and compliance with the law. With different legal ages and restrictions around the world, staying informed about the regulations in your area is essential. By adhering to these regulations, users, and retailers can contribute to a safer and healthier environment for everyone, and avoid potential penalties and negative consequences. So, the next time you think about vaping or selling a vaping product, make sure you’re well-versed in the laws and regulations that apply to you and vape responsibly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you vape if you’re 18 in the US?

18-year-olds are NOT allowed to buy vaping products in most states, and they should be aware of the different state & municipal regulations that may apply regarding their use. Be sure to follow your state’s laws to stay on the right side of the law. Most states have adopted the federal age requirement of 21 or higher for the sale of tobacco products and vaping products.

Do you have to be 18 to buy a vape?

Generally, you must be 21 years old to buy a vape, but some countries around the world have set the minimum age to as low as 16 and in other regions completely banned the sale no matter the age.

It is important to note that while it is potentially legal for someone under 21 to possess and use vaping products in your area, selling them to minors is strictly prohibited.

How to buy vapes without an ID?

Although purchasing vapes without an ID can be done, it’s important to consider that it is illegal and may have serious long-term legal consequences for both yourself – and the merchant trusting you with the sale.

Be sure to understand the risks involved before moving forward.


Dab Banger Types 🔥 Top 12 different types of Bangers with photos

It’s no secret that smoking or vaping wax dabs have grown wildly in popularity over the last decade. Dabbing wax has not only influenced the way people choose to consume cannabis but also what cannabis products are being developed and marketed.  Prior to dabbing, cannabis was typically consumed through smoking, edibles, vaporizers, or tinctures. Dabbing […]

Continue Reading Article » Dab Banger Types 🔥 Top 12 different types of Bangers with photos

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Top 10 Best Vaporizer sales to score this 4/20 – 2023 https://vaporizercritics.com/420-sales/ https://vaporizercritics.com/420-sales/#respond Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:21:07 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5693 Our hand-picked and curated guide to just the top 10 things we recommend you buy one (or more) of this 4/20 holiday season.

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The term “420” has become synonymous with cannabis culture, and April 20th, or 4/20, is celebrated as a day of appreciation for our favorite plant. Annual 420 sales have emerged as the event where retailers offer huge discounts on cannabis-related products, including vaporizers. Being experts in the field of vaporizers, we believe that these 2023 4/20 sales represent the best shopping holiday for consumers looking to purchase high-quality vaporizers at unbeatable prices.

In our role as Vaporizer Critics, we encourage customers to take advantage of 420 sales to purchase premium & high-quality devices at a fraction of their normal cost. It’s an ideal time to explore new devices, replace aging units, or gift friends and family the gift of a top-notch vaporizer.

Our expert recommendations for the top 10 things to buy this 4/20

With several thousand different products available at a discount, at hundreds of merchants this 4/20, there is information overload.  This guide is our hand-picked and curated guide to just the top 10 things we recommend you buy one (or more) of this 4/20 holiday season.  These offers and merchants were chosen specifically for their bottom-line price, and our years of experience and trust in the following retailers to deliver directly to you on time.

1) Stündenglass Gravity Bong

Stundenglass Gravity Bong

It’s not a vape, but our #1 recommendation for 2023 4/20 sale pickup is the Stündenglass Gravity Bong.  It is such a new & exciting device.  Plus almost none of you have it yet.  In the best spirit of 420, it is also THE tool to use with your spouse or friends.  Now with more stores selling them, this is the first time that you can score one with a crazy discount.  This deal gives a $305 markdown and ends 4/21.

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

2) Storz & Bickel Mighty Plus

Mighty Plus Vaporizer

Next up is the Storz & Bickel Mighty Plus.  Among the Handheld vaporizer connoisseurs, the Mighty is a legend.  It has precision temperature control, quick heat-up time, hybrid heating technology, and a large OLED display. Its high-capacity battery ensures extensive use, while the upgraded cooling system provides smooth vapor. This deal gives a $169 markdown and ends 4/21.

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

3) Davinci IQ2

Davinci IQ2

The DaVinci IQ2 Vaporizer features precision temperature control, an adjustable airflow system, and an all-ceramic zirconia vapor path for pure flavor.  You buy this device because it is sleek, truly pocket portable, and like a great wristwatch – it’s sexy.

$295    $206

Use Coupon Code:

DEAL30

4) Crafty Plus

Storz & Bickel Crafty Plus

The Storz & Bickel Crafty Plus Vaporizer offers exceptional vapor quality, compact design, and hybrid heating technology. It’s one-button control and phone app enables precise control, while the Super-Boost feature provides powerful hits.

$359    $164

Use Coupon Code:

420CC25

5) Dr. Dabber Switch

Dr Dabber Switch

The Dr. Dabber Switch offers dual-use for concentrates and dry herbs, rapid induction heating, precise temperature control, long battery life, and customizable LED lights. Experience exceptional flavor, efficiency, and convenience in one device.

$375    $273

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

6) Volcano Hybrid Onyx

Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid Onyx

The Storz & Bickel Volcano Hybrid Desktop Vaporizer delivers top-tier vapor quality through convection heating and precise digital touch panel temperature control. It has easy balloon or whip inhalation options and a robust design. The “best of the best”.

$699    $524

Use Coupon Code:

420CC25

6) Boundless Terp Pen

Boundless Terp Pen

The Boundless Terp Pen provides a discreet, portable, and efficient dab vape pen. Its sleek design enables easy, buttonless operation, while its instant heat-up time and coil-less ceramic tip ensure exceptional flavor. Enjoy on-the-go sessions with this affordable pen.

$30    $25

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

8) Puffco Peak Pro

Puffco Peak Pro

The Puffco Peak Pro is a smart & stylish dab e-rig. It offers precise temperature control, Bluetooth connectivity, real-time LED feedback, long battery life, and haptic feedback. Enjoy smoother, cleaner, and more flavorful vapor, with a sleek design perfect for dab sessions.

$450    $296

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

9) Arizer XQ2 Desktop

Arizer XQ2 Desktop

The Arizer XQ2 offers A+ vapor quality, easy temp settings, and hybrid heating. A glass vapor path provides great flavor. This is an inexpensive entry into Desktop vaporizers by the legends at Arizer. Featuring plenty of accessory options this 4/20 sale price is a bargain.

$320    $224

Use Coupon Code:

ARIZER30

10) Pulsar RöK Luna Glow

Pulsar RöK Electric Dab Rig - Luna Glow

The Pulsar RöK Luna Glow Electric Dab Rig boasts efficient performance and easy operation.  But the reason it is on this top 10 4/20 sales list, is because it is fun.  It brings some vintage whimsy and mood chill with its glow-in-the-dark vibes that add to your dabbing sesh.

$260    $156

Discount at checkout.

No Code Needed.

The Best Vaporizer (& Gravity Bong) to grab this 4/20 - from the best stores - at the best price of the year.

During these 2023 4/20 sales, retailers are providing significant markdowns, bundle deals, and exclusive offers on a wide range of vaporizers and accessories. These discounts allow consumers to invest in premium devices from renowned brands like Storz & Bickel, DaVinci, and PAX without breaking the bank. This makes 420 sales the perfect opportunity for both first-time buyers and seasoned enthusiasts to upgrade their vaping experience.

Most e-commerce merchants do not actually hold and ship the inventory themselves, but act as salesmen in the middle.  That is not the case here.  This is our TOP 10 products we would buy, from the retailers that will deliver, at the best price this year.  Enjoy!


Dab Banger Types 🔥 Top 12 different types of Bangers with photos

It’s no secret that smoking or vaping wax dabs have grown wildly in popularity over the last decade. Dabbing wax has not only influenced the way people choose to consume cannabis but also what cannabis products are being developed and marketed.  Prior to dabbing, cannabis was typically consumed through smoking, edibles, vaporizers, or tinctures. Dabbing […]

Continue Reading Article » Dab Banger Types 🔥 Top 12 different types of Bangers with photos

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Dab Banger Types 🔥 Top 12 different types of Bangers with photos https://vaporizercritics.com/dab-banger-types-top-12-most-popular-w-photos/ https://vaporizercritics.com/dab-banger-types-top-12-most-popular-w-photos/#comments Sat, 25 Mar 2023 04:20:00 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5623 It’s no secret that smoking or vaping wax dabs have grown wildly in popularity over the last decade. Dabbing wax has not only influenced the way people choose to consume cannabis but also what cannabis products are being developed and marketed.  Prior to dabbing, cannabis was typically consumed through smoking, edibles, vaporizers, or tinctures. Dabbing […]

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It’s no secret that smoking or vaping wax dabs have grown wildly in popularity over the last decade. Dabbing wax has not only influenced the way people choose to consume cannabis but also what cannabis products are being developed and marketed. 

Prior to dabbing, cannabis was typically consumed through smoking, edibles, vaporizers, or tinctures. Dabbing is when you heat up a small amount of cannabis concentrate or wax and inhale the vapor. Dabbing is pretty well-known for its higher potency, a distinct flavor, and is well-believed to provide a more intense high than smoking or vaping. Dabbing wax has also introduced new products, such as Dab Rigs, and Dab Bangers that are explicitly designed for this.

In this article, we will explore many of the different types of bangers out there to help guide many of the new users out there confused about which type of dab banger to choose. We take a deep dive into the Different Types of Bangers w/ photos, & round up the top 12 most popular Dab Banger Types + angles & materials

Are there Different types of Bangers?

Yes, there are literally dozens of different types of bangers.   There are dab bangers made of different materials such as quartz, glass, titanium, and ceramic.  There are different shapes, sizes, and even male or female bangers.  

There has been a sharp rise in desktop vaporizer dab rig products such as Puffco Peak Pro, Dr. Dabber Switch, and the Kandypens Oura Vaporizer.  These vaporizers use atomizers that are very similar to torch-style dab rig bangers,  and are often marketed as “Dab Bangers”. 

Even though we are experts in Vaporizers – When people are asking us for recommendations about our favorite types of Bangers, we know that they want help in choosing a dab banger that is right for them.  And that is usually a Quartz Dab Banger on a traditional Dab rig.

In conducting our research for this article, we found over 30 different types of bangers.  We narrowed this down to the top 12 most popular dab banger types based on product volume and statistical trends like search volume at Google.  Listed below in order of popularity, with number 1 being king, here are the 12 most popular dab banger types:

1.  Terp Slurper Banger

Terp Slurper Dab Banger
Terp Slurper Banger – Male – 90°

A Terp Slurper is the most popular type of Banger. A terp slurper has a series of small tubes or “slurpers” attached to the bottom. These tubes improve airflow, increasing the vaporization and flavor of the wax by pulling it down into the banger with a vortex effect.  Alternatively, the design may feature a dish built into the bottom that has grooves to create a vacuum effect.  Pushing your concentrates back into the middle of the banger.  Both types of Terp Slurper bangers create a benefit in percolation for your hits.  

A terp slurper banger also offers enhanced flavor by directing terps towards the mouth, increased efficiency by vaporizing the material more evenly, and less waste by reducing the amount of leftover residue after dabbing.

2.  Thermal Banger “Double Walled”

Thermal “Double Walled” – Male – 90°

A thermal banger is a type that is designed to retain heat for a longer period of time, while also eliminating direct combustion. Many connoisseurs want to avoid heating dabs “directly” because it creates some harmful off-gasses.  Unlike traditional Dab Bangers that lose heat more quickly, Thermal Bangers are thicker and have double walls that create an insulated chamber to keep the heat in, resulting in a more consistent and controlled dabbing experience. When using a Thermal double walled banger with a torch, you actually heat the outer wall.  The inner cup will heat more indirectly via convection.  By retaining heat for longer, thermal bangers allow for lower-temperature dabbing, which can provide a smoother and more flavorful hit.  It also reduces the risk of burning or wasting the concentrates.

3.  Cold Start Banger

Cold Start Banger – Male – 90°

A cold start banger allows for a low-temperature dabbing experience. Cold start bangers involve placing the concentrate in the banger first and then heating it slowly to vaporization temperature second. This type of banger is usually round or oval at the bottom. This method of dabbing allows for more flavorful and efficient dab hits, as the concentrate is vaporized slowly at lower temps.  Many people claim low-temp dabs have the best terpy flavor, so it’s a no-brainer why Cold Start Bangers are the 3rd most popular type of Banger. Typically, with other Banger types, one would heat up the banger first then drop in the dab.

4.  Banger Bucket

Banger Bucket – Male – 90°

When I think of a Dab Banger, the first type I think of is immediately a Banger Bucket.  While not special in any way, they are probably the type of Dab Banger you are most familiar with.  The basic Quartz Bucket Banger is what most people probably take their first dab in.  Shaped like a standard bucket – with a stem to connect to the dab rig.  They come in a number of variations, but at the end of the day, their simplicity is why it is so popular. Your first dab rig likely came with a Glass Banger Bucket, and if you like the shape we suggest upgrading to a Quartz Dab Banger to reduce the risk of shattering or exploding while hot.

5.  Flat top Banger

Flat top Banger – Male – 90°

A flat top banger type allows for better use of carb caps, spinner caps, and marbles by providing a resting place on the lid. Additionally, the flat-topped bangers can have a thicker bottom that absorbs more heat and stays hot for a longer period of time. The main benefit of using a flat top banger is the variety of carb and bullet caps available to pair with it for an increased vaporization strength. Pairing flat tops with caps allows for more efficient use of the concentrates. The flat top design also helps to prevent pooling and clogging of the concentrate, making it easier to clean and maintain.

6.  Terp Blender

Terp Blender – Male – 90°

A Terp Blender Banger is a type very similar to a Terp Slurper Banger.  It’s made specifically to create a vacuum or vortex via airflow at the bottom.  A Terp Blender usually has a dish at the bottom of the Banger that has curved air grooves that create a wonderful spinning “blender” motion of the dab vapor as you inhale it.  This spinning can result in the cooling of the vapor before it reaches your lungs. The swirling incoming airflow also helps to keep your extracts in the center of the banger during heating and inhalation. Terb Blenders are almost always made from Quartz.

7.  Opaque Banger

Opaque Banger – Male – 90°

Like most Dab Bangers, Opaque Bangers can vary in shape.  Flat Top, Bubble or round bottom, or beveled edges just to name some examples.  What sets Opaque Dab Bangers apart is that they are almost always made of Quartz, and they have a thick bottom that you cannot see through.  By being thicker at the bottom with a denser quartz construction, the heat is more evenly distributed to the inside of the bucket.  Similar to a hot stone that radiates heat more efficiently.  This is the beginner’s choice to learn the techniques in low-temp dabbing, before advancing to Terp Slurpers or Terp Blenders.

8.  Core Reactor Banger

Core Reactor Banger – Male – 90°

A core reactor banger features a solid, quartz cylinder in the center of the dish/bucket. This added block of quartz provides extra heat retention in the center and a larger surface area for the concentrate to come in contact with. The core cylinder can also have heat-reactive color-changing crystals inside to help gauge the temperature level more accurately. By heating the concentrate from both the inside and outside of the extracts simultaneously, the core reactor banger allows for quicker and more thorough heating of the extracts and allows you to push huge hits through.

9.  Terp Cycler Banger

Terp Cycler Banger
Terp Cycler Banger – Male – 90°

A Terp Cycler Banger is a specialty dab design for large dabs and champion lungs. When heated, the melted concentrate will drip down into the cycler tube, and cause the leftover concentrate to recycle back through the heating and cooling process.  These allow you to stretch your wax, and use less while creating huge dabs. When you dab off this banger it keeps recycling the dab over and over through the heated banger until every last drop is vaporized to perfection. The efficiency of this banger cannot be overstated. Due to the extra stem, these are a bit harder to clean with a cotton swab.

10.  Beveled Edge Banger

Beveled Edge Banger – Female – 90°

A beveled edge banger has a different edge at the top of the Banger bucket.  This edge allows your carb cap to seal nicely with more pressure. This pressure will allow you to dab at lower temperatures for a smoother hit.  However, we think the absolute best reason to use a beveled edge banger is to use it in combination with a bubble cap, bullet cap, or other round caps.  The beveled edge allows a bubble cap to move and float more smoothly while maintaining a better seal where the cap meets the Banger glass. In the photo here you will see a beveled edge banger with a female joint.

11.  Round Banger / Bubble Bottom Banger

Round Banger – Male – 90°

A Round Bottom Banger is very similar to a traditional Bucket Banger.  The number one advantage to a round bottom banger is it is so much easier to clean.  With a bucket, the corners where the sidewalls meet the bottom create a consistently difficult part to clean.  With a Round bottom banger, this is solved.  This design has no corners, and a cotton swab will make quick work of the round bottom cleanup. The second reason many prefer a Round Bottom Banger is the ability to cold start the dab at lower temperatures. Additionally, because of the round bottom, the extracts will naturally pool to the bottom center of the banger when heating and inhaling.

12.  Double Banger

Double Quartz Banger
Double Banger – Male – 90°

Double Bangers or Double Headed Dab Bangers are the party favorite.  In most cases this is going to be designed like a traditional simple bucket banger, only double!  Two buckets, One stem 😂

These are designed to dab 2 different extracts at once, take monster-sized dabs, or share with a friend.  You can also dab different extracts in different orders to really experiment with the flavor profile.

Dab Banger Angles

45° Degree Banger Joints

45° Degree Banger Joint – male

The stem portion of the Dab Banger will be set at a 45-degree angle.  This angle of orientation is the most searched-for and most popular angle of a Banger joint.  This is because a vast majority of the existing smokeware out there likely uses a 45° angle down-stem.  Think about every bong you have ever owned.  It most likely has a vertical vapor path, with a 45° down-stem that you would fit your bowl into.  With a 45° Angle Banger, you can use most glass bongs. This makes them very popular with new users looking to enter the dab game without having to buy a completely new dab rig.

90° Degree Banger Joints

90° Degree male joint w/ spinner cap

The contemporary version of a glass Dab rig will likely need a 90° joint angle.  The design and style of today’s more modern Dab Rigs like the RiO from Stache Products will have a vertical female down-stem in which you can attach a 90° Quartz Banger.  This just means the steam of the Dab banger will make a full 90-degree turn to point straight down.  Nearly every photo in this guide demonstrates a 90° Dab Banger joint. If you have purchased a dedicated Dab Rig specifically for use with dabbing extracts, it very likely has a 90-degree bend in the stem, and requires a male joint, as seen in the example. This is the most common setup. Take a look at your dab rig to see what angle and gender you need.

How do Bangers affect the quality of Dabs?

  1. The cleanliness of the Dab Banger is going to directly impact the flavor of your extracts.  How clean your Dab banger is will also affect how evenly your material will heat up, as well as the accuracy of its temperature.  We recommend always keeping your Dab Banger clean.  It just tastes so much better, so don’t be lazy.  Check out this link for the Complete Guide on how to clean your Dab Banger.
  2. The material in the Dab Banger’s construction is going to dramatically affect every aspect of the dab you take.  The material the dab banger is made of will impact the flavor, the efficiency of your extracts, the temperature you will be able to attain and sustain, as well as the overall cost of purchase.

Materials used in different Types of Bangers

Quartz Dab Bangers

Quartz Dab Banger

Quartz is tougher than glass or ceramic and doesn’t get damaged by heat or dropping as easily. It also heats up fast and keeps its heat for longer, which means you can enjoy your vapor for a longer time. That’s why lots of people like to use Quartz Dab Bangers.  Quartz is the most popular choice.

Glass Dab Bangers

When you buy a dab rig, it likely will come with a basic glass nail or banger because it is inexpensive. Glass is easy to clean and works well. But, glass can crack if it’s heated unevenly or used frequently, so it’s not the best choice for people who dab a lot.

Ceramic Dab Bangers

Ceramic is a slow-heating material that can be perfect for users who prefer to dab at low temperatures. Ceramic retains the heat for longer too. So there’s no need to frequently reheat the nail.  Ceramic is more difficult to manufacture, so there are not yet a lot of options in the different types of Dab Bangers available made of ceramics.

Titanium Dab Bangers

Titanium nails are a popular choice in the cannabis community because they are very strong. Unlike glass and ceramic nails, they don’t break if you accidentally drop them, or if you heat them up too much. These features make titanium nails ideal for use with electronic dab rigs.  Much like ceramic, there are not yet a lot of styles and options available in different types of Dab Bangers made of Titanium yet.

Are quartz bangers better than glass?

Yes.  And that is why they are more expensive.  Quartz Dab Bangers are much safer from shattering when you use them – even when exposed to very high heat. Compared to other materials, quartz is sturdy and more stable than glass, and safer than titanium. You can safely heat up the surface area of quartz bangers until they’re red hot without worrying about them exploding. If you plan on enjoying your dab experience to the max, you definitely want to upgrade from glass to quartz. Anyone that has ever had to clean up a shattered banger covered in melted extracts will not make the same mistake twice.


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Is Pax Labs about to release a “PAX 4” Vaporizer? https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-4-vaporizer-leaks/ https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-4-vaporizer-leaks/#comments Mon, 26 Sep 2022 04:03:32 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5593 We think the answer is Yes.  In fact, in addition to a new product line – I expect to see the company “Pax Labs” sold or acquired via M&A in the next 3-5 years.  I will go into that in another article later. For now, here is a big list of reasons why I think […]

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We think the answer is Yes. 

In fact, in addition to a new product line – I expect to see the company “Pax Labs” sold or acquired via M&A in the next 3-5 years.  I will go into that in another article later. For now, here is a big list of reasons why I think we will see a new Pax (4?) portable vaporizer, a new Pax Era for extracts, and more in a new lineup in 2022…

Firstly, the next iteration from Pax Labs may not end up being named the “PAX 4”.  Pax Labs is critically eager always to be compared to the “Apple of Vaporizers”.  They use the slogan in nearly all PR they release and mimic the packaging and unboxing experience.  Where they fall short in that comparison is the actual technology and quality of internal materials, but that is another subject.

If Pax Labs were to follow recent Apple naming conventions, we might see a PAX +, Pax Plus, Pax Mini, Pax Pro, or Pax Pro Max.  It all depends on the direction the company takes with the decisions regarding the new features, size, and materials. 

Price Drops on all Pax Vaporizer Products

On August 5, 2022, Pax Labs’ official Instagram released a couple of teasers or “soft leaks”.  

“Good news: We’ve got some exciting things in store for Fall 2022!⁠ ⁠Mildly bad news: We’re not ready to spill the seeds just yet.⁠

⁠Good news, again: To make up for the wait, we’re lowering the prices on ALL PAX 3 & 2 devices in the US!”

Officially, for the first time you can now buy a PAX 3 Basic Kit for $160, and a Pax 3 Complete Kit for $200.  Pax 2 (which we still think is a fantastic device) is now only $120.  These prices were previously only possible by purchasing from other trusted official retailers and by using Pax Discount Codes (which always have, and always will present better than official prices).  You can find links to our Pax 2 Review, and Pax 3 review for more information on our opinions of these 2 cannabis vaporizers.  At these new low prices, we will certainly have to give them both a rating boost.

Pax Labs officially dropping the prices this much tells us a few things.  

  1. They are experiencing a lag and decline in overall sales volume
  2. Pax is pricing its existing product lineup more competitively (inline) with other retailers’ prices of their products as well as competitor products in the market.  

Pax Labs has long been a rigid retailer in protecting their MAP (minimum advertised price) – and this official MSRP change is an obvious retail signal – something new is coming, and we think it is at a minimum PAX4.  Likely also a new Pax Era device as well.

New PAX distribution partnerships across North America

On August 1, 2022, Pax Announced they were dropping their long-time “king of the hill” distribution partner Greenlane, and entering into new agreements with 5 different and new PAX distributors.  All 5 of these have smaller footprints, resources, and trained staff. 

“We are thrilled to expand our distribution network to better support the growing consumer demand for our products across North America,” stated Steven Jung, COO, PAX Labs. “These wholesale partners were strategically selected based on their extensive reach in both established and new PAX markets, and will enable us to bring our industry-leading devices and the best cannabis experience to more people.”

Our opinions on the distribution move aside, this is a big retail signal.  Pax 4 is coming in 2022, and they are setting up a new system to staff, distribute, shelf, sell, and provide customer support.

Pax Labs’ $420 million dollars in equity financing needs answers

Over 3 years ago, PAX raised a record-setting $420 million USD dollars in equity financing.  This included both new and existing institutional investors, including New York-based Tiger Global Management and San Francisco-based Tao Capital Partners.

“This financing round allows us to invest in new products and new markets, including international growth in markets like Canada and exploring opportunities in hemp-based CBD extracts,” Pax CEO Bharat Vasan said in a news release.

Just 3 months after that statement, and massive equity financing – PAX CEO Bharat Vasan was fired.

And since then – Over the past 3 years, we have not seen any new updates to the flagship PAX vaporizers.  This undoubtedly has the investors anxious to see a return on that enormous investment.  The brand desperately needs fresh new retail capital coming in now.  Not just to stay competitive in handheld portable herbal vaporizers, but to appease the financial investors that have yet to see the momentum they had hoped for in the sector.

I expect to see a Pax 4 vaporizer announced (with the dreaded pre-order scheme) in early November 2022. And a full Pax 4 launch in Dec 2022 (after Cyber Monday and Black Friday sales). The company will want a big influx of sales for the next couple of years at full retail pricing $250+.

Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the Christmas Holiday shopping season are coming.

Do Pax products ever go on sale?  The answer is yes – but almost exclusively during the holiday shopping seasons, (4/20 7/10 EOY) and the big one is coming quickly.  We expect to see MSRP on all current/retiring PAX products drop another 20% for Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales events.

Pax is going to want to replace and sell the existing inventory of legacy PAX 2 / PAX 3 products that are currently taking up shelf space in shops and wholesale distribution in order to make staff and shelf space available from top to bottom ready for the about-to-be revealed PAX 4 vaporizer.

A new Pax Era design

For nearly all of the same reasons as I have outlined above, I also fully expect to see a new Pax Era device announced at the same time before the end of 2022.

In February of 2022, Pax revealed the new “Fresh Pressed Live Rosin pods“.  These new products are extracted without solvents in hopes of delivering the cleanest concentrate experience. Pitched as the “Raw food” equivalent to cannabis consumption, it is a worthy direction of pursuit.  Outside the marketing, those that followed the vape cartridge & popcorn lung epidemic will note that many of the health problems occurred due to the concentrates & extract leaking into the electronic materials of the device itself.   COVID-19 only added to worries about respiratory impact, and safety.  Any thought leader in this space should consider this a huge opportunity and wake-up call.

In order to continue the PR leadership push into “clean” extract usage, I expect to see an upgraded new Pax Era vaporizer this year.  Perhaps with a clean/healthy/whole plant marketing angle including something made partially from recycled materials.  Maybe a Pax Era “Earth” 🌎😉.

Now that we have covered a lot of reasons WHY we will see a PAX 4 and a new Pax Era in 2022, Let’s discuss what we would like to see in a Pax 4.

What we hope to see in PAX 4 Vaporizer:

  1. Better materials should be used in the oven.  Take a cue starting with DAVINCI IQ and move away from inexpensive Chinese stainless steel ovens, and use a medical-grade ceramic.  It is a better experience and flavor for the user.  It may take milliseconds longer to heat, but better build materials have always proved worth it to the end user.
  2. Better Temperature control.  While the Pax 2 and Pax 3 provide you with Low, Medium, and High settings – it is outdated.  For those that like to craft their experience better, Temperature control is key.  Some people take a few sips and they are done.  Others might take a bowl for a journey, or only seek to vaporize medicinal compounds like CBD (at specific low temperatures).  Some people just want to set it to 420° and forget it.
  3. New Games.  Cliche yes, but I think some of the most fun in unboxing a new Pax vaporizer has been the easter-egg games hidden in the device and working to unlock them.  Such a simple thing adds a touch of whimsy to the purchase that is always welcome.
  4. Replaceable battery😂  I know.  It will never happen on a PAX.  The industrial design of the product pretty much makes this standard feature found on so many other great devices an impossibility for PAX.  It is a real shame.  Every power user would love to swap out batteries instead of having to wait for the slow charger to juice up so you can keep going.  Buzzkill for sure.
  5. USB-C charging port.  Regarding PAX Battery Buzzkill, the industry demands at minimum a USB-C charging port.  The magnetic clip charger was innovative and swag in 2012.  But the USB-C era is here, even for Apple products.  Unfortunately, users needing to buy new chargers are a cash cow for Pax Labs.  I would be shocked if they stopped that income stream of ancillary product sales.  
  6. Better or adjustable airflow.  This has long been a gripe among PAX users on Reddit and Vaporizer forums.  PAX vaporizers have always been a “tight sipper”. 
  7. Dosing capsules or similar.  While the PAX oven design is very easy to load, when out and about using the device socially, stopping to empty and reload the device in your lap is AWKWARD.  The ability to preload a dosed capsule or brick to pop in on the go would be a big win for PAX 4. Currently, we rely on 3rd party products for this.

Here is what I do NOT want to see in PAX4:

  1. I do not want to see any marketing of using PAX 4 for extracts or concentrates.  I do not want to see any steel wool “concentrate discs” or anything similar.  Vaporizer companies need to stop trying to combine these 2 things.  Want extracts in a Pax product?  Get a Pax Era.  Using an herbal vaporizer for concentrates is a sticky mess that just leaves everyone and everything underwhelmed and disappointed.

Here is a list of what I believe may actually be announced in a Pax 4 vaporizer.

  1. New PAX 4 colors.  Vaporizers as social accessories and IDs work.  New colors and finishes should be step one to identifying a PAX 4.
  2. Slightly updated shape or hand feel.  This may be a different external material, different dimensions, shapes, or both.
  3. Higher mAh battery. Or some iteration of hardware optimization of the 18650 batteries that are currently used in PAX herbal vaporizers. Cheap, easy “upgrade”.
  4. Updated app.  The current app is over 2 years old and not well-liked. 
  5. Bundle kits.  Options such as – Bundled with the new Pax Era, or Bundled with accessories and apparel. It’s an inexpensive way to increase margins.
  6. Partially recycled materials.  This is a fantastic marketing angle for a thought leader in cannabis tech out of San Francisco.  Even if it is mostly hype, PAX PR LOVES HYPE.

When do you think the PAX 4 and new Pax Era will launch? 
What features do you want to see? 
What do you hope they avoid? 

I’d love to hear your input.  What have I forgotten or got wrong?
Leave a comment below.  No email or login is required.


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DaVinci Vaporizer releases IQ2 https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-vaporizer-releases-iq2/ https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-vaporizer-releases-iq2/#comments Sun, 11 Sep 2022 15:50:00 +0000 https://vaporizercritics.com/?p=5487 DaVinci Vaporizer introduces the IQ2. DaVinci Vaporizer officially announced the launch of its newest portable herbal vaporizer the IQ2.  And if you love weed vapes as much as we do here, then this is great news.  The original Davinci IQ vaporizer launched a little over 3 years ago and was a big hit in the […]

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DaVinci Vaporizer introduces the IQ2.

DaVinci Vaporizer officially announced the launch of its newest portable herbal vaporizer the IQ2.  And if you love weed vapes as much as we do here, then this is great news.  The original Davinci IQ vaporizer launched a little over 3 years ago and was a big hit in the handheld herbal vape market almost immediately.  And with 3 years of time to revise and perfect upon the original IQ, We are anxious to see how the product will stack up in a head-to-head comparison to our original DaVinci IQ Review which we had ranked as our #1 favorite vaporizer.

What is DaVinci claiming about the Davinci IQ2?

First, let’s take a look at some details in the press release:

” As the first Load Your Own & Know Your Dose vaporizer, the IQ2 features full on-device dosage control and session-tracking information without requiring a separate app.”

A lot can be derived from this marketing lingo immediately if you know the vaporizer business.

  1. “Load your own” distances DaVinci from the VAPI illnesses from cheap disposable pre-filled pens.  And rightfully so.
  2. “Know your own Dose” positions Davinci as a thought leader in precision dosing, directly in line with their recent partnership with Cansativa to produce cannabis vaporizers specifically for medical users.
  3. By including “on-device” dosage control, Davinci is side-stepping the recent Apple ban on vaping apps on iPhones which normally allows users to extend control of the devices.  Luckily,  Android phones can still install and run these apps – which is the lion’s share of global users.

What is new in the DaVinci IQ2?

  1. Brushed aluminum finish.  This will be more polished and shiny in appearance and may expose fingerprints, but has more of a wow factor.
  2. Adjustable airflow.  There is now an analog dial on the bottom of the IQ2 that allows you to fine-tune the amount of airflow and draw resistance.  Some people prefer tighter/looser draws https://davinci.pxf.io/Py6QEXwhen inhaling – this will allow you to choose your resistance and density – as well as potentially cool your vapor with additional airflow.
  3. 30% Longer Pearl stem.  This allows for greater adjustment of the depth of the pearl and compression of your bowl.
  4. Increased mouthpiece airflow.  The airflow holes on the top mouthpiece appear to have increased slightly in diameter – allowing for more generous draws.
  5. New flavor chamber design.  The original IQ had a bottleneck in the flavor chamber which was nicknamed “Satan’s anus” because of the inability to clean it easily.  The IQ2 flavor chamber has addressed that problem in a newer design.
  6. Thicker oven.  Boasting a 20% thicker oven with increased insulation from the nearby battery will increase heating efficiency.
  7. Ceramic Extract Tab and 0.2g Dosage Pod.  Small included additional accessories new to the IQ2.

Pros & Cons of the DaVinci IQ2

ProsCons
  1. Removable 18650 battery.  Just like the original, this is a big distinction in comparison to other vapes like the Pax.  The ability to remove faulty batteries, or upgrade them, or charge externally is just too important to not have in 2020.
  2. 10-year warranty.  Especially considering you can upgrade and replace your battery, this means the life cycle of this device is quite long.
  3. If you mainly vape ground flower, the IQ2 is both compact and flavorful.  The Ceramic internals just tastes better than stainless steel.
  4. Cosmetically, it is beautiful!
  1. Micro USB – although a small footprint, and cheaper in manufacturing, the public wants a USB-C port for much faster charging.
  2. IQ2 is now 11 grams heavier and 9% larger in overall size than the original IQ
  3. Although labeled and priced as a dual-use vaporizer, for both concentrates and flower, the conduction heating chamber & Ceramic Extract Tab are too small to effectively use dabs.  And it complicates clean up and in my opinion, it’s a reach – and just not worth it.

Where to buy the DaVinci IQ2

At the time of this writing, the DaVinci IQ2 was just released today.  And because of that, none of our favorite retailers have it in stock yet, and the only place to buy it is from the manufacturer.  CLICK HERE to visit the IQ2 page directly on Davinci Vaporizer’s website.  I do want to mention, that, unlike other product releases, this does not appear to be a “pre-order” purchase.  So Kudos to the DaVinci Vaporizer team for releasing the new vape with inventory ready.

I would imagine that over the coming week, you will see the DaVinci IQ2 for sale and available to buy on a number of competing retailers – some of which will offer additional freebies, as well as honor DaVinci Vaporizer Coupon Codes.  I would keep an eye open to see which retailers pop up on that site to see where the best bargains are to be had.  But if you need to be the first one to have it, or are looking for a last-minute Holiday home-run gift for your favorite stoner – head on over to  Davinci Vaporizer and pick up the brand-new IQ2! Or check out the new DaVinci ARTIQ here.

If you have a question, let us know below – we probably have the answer.

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Pax Era https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-era/ https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-era/#respond Mon, 29 Aug 2022 16:02:51 +0000 http://vaporizercritics.com/pax-era/ Pax Era Review – First Impressions Pax Labs and the line of products that hold their name have often been referred to as the “Apple of Vaporizers”. It is easy to see how so many can make that presumption when they take a look and see the similarities between the two brands. Like Apple, Pax […]

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Pax Era Review – First Impressions

Pax Era Review – and First Impressions

Pax Labs and the line of products that hold their name have often been referred to as the “Apple of Vaporizers”. It is easy to see how so many can make that presumption when they take a look and see the similarities between the two brands. Like Apple, Pax has a very simple and elegant packaging style, groundbreaking marketing that sets them apart from their competition, and a dedication to tech and design with all of their Products. The Pax Era is their newest presentation of just that.

Right out of the Apple-esque packaging you notice the quality and care that was put into the product. Much like unboxing a smartphone, I find myself giddy with excitement. The package includes just the Pax Era unit and a USB charger for the battery base. The battery base packs 240mah of power and Bluetooth connectivity to pair with the Pax app…. But we’ll come back to that part later. Its long rectangular shape seemed as though it might have been awkward to hold or handle but I find quite the opposite. It’s sleek, slim, and simple in its design and fits perfectly in your hands and between your fingers. From the packaging to the battery base, and down to the Pods there is a ringing sense of care quality and design that was put into each item.

Pods

Pax Era pods and flavors

Pax Era Pods and flavors

The Pax Era is a “Pod” based oil vaporizer. This means that the battery base of the Pax Era fits special Pax Era Pods that are pre-filled with Cannabis oil of different strains available from your favorite Cannabis brands. The Pax Era is currently only available for purchase in the States which have all passed recreational marijuana laws.

In these various states and regions, Pax has partnered with local manufacturers of Cannabis oil that pre-fill these Pods to have them available at select dispensaries. Some of the notable brands include The Lab Colorado, Bloom Farms, Matrix NV, Guild Extracts, Legion of Bloom, and Blue Coast Farms. Each pod is filled with 0.5g of terpene-rich cannabis oil. While this may not sound like much it should deliver between 300-500 puffs depending on the length of the inhale. The Pods come in 4 strain types; Sativa, Indica, Hybrid, and CBD giving users a variety of effects and flavors to choose from.

First Session

Getting started with the Era is pretty simple. You simply insert the pod into the battery base. Once in place, the LED “X” on the front of the Era will flash white indicating the Pod and battery are connected and ready to use. I am based out of Las Vegas, NV, and was able to acquire a Matrix NV Pax Era pod to test this out for the first session. Because we didn’t want the session to be influenced by either a Sativa or Indica experience I picked up a Hybrid pod for these first sessions. The Matrix NV hybrid pod is filled with their Gorilla Glue #4 cannabis oil which is also one of my favorite strains.

You can check your charge level on the battery by shaking the Era back and forth. Like its big brother the Pax the four pedals on the front of the Era will illuminate indicating the battery level from 1-4. The Battery Base also has different wattage settings that will allow the pod to vape your oils at different temperatures. You can change the temperature using either the Pax app or there is a little Morse code-like procedure that you can use to change the settings. To toggle the settings you first shake the Era to display the battery, then you remove the pod which will illuminate the LED on the front of the Era, and rotate in a clockwise motion. When the lights illuminate your desired setting re-insert the pod and the Era will flash your chosen setting.  

Era Device: Temperature Settings+

Fahrenheit: Low: 520, Med-Low: 610, Med-High: 700, High: 790

Celcius: Low: 270ºC, Med-Low: 320, Med-High: 370, High: 420

First inhale……. “Dude! Are you serious?”. First words come from my mouth as I exhale the delicious vapor. Inhale again……”Duuuuuude”. Inhale again…. Ok, that’s enough lol. I kind of can’t believe the flavor I am getting from this vape. In my experience with Cannabis oil vapes, there is always a certain unwanted flavor that I get when using them. Sometimes it’s a strange burning flavor that is likely from the wick and coil of the cartridge, other times it is the flavor of the solvents used to make the oil. There is none of that present here with the Pax Era. It’s likely that to make sure not to tarnish the quality that Pax customers are used to getting from their products that Pax holds a very strict standard to both the solvents used in the oil-making process but also the quality of the Cannabis that is used in the first place to make it. From their selection of extractors is it clear that they chose partners who are known for providing quality buds and extracts on a mass scale to meet demand.  

First Week

This little guy is dangerous, or at least it is for someone like me hahaha. I took this thing absolutely everywhere. I used it in a movie theater granted I was the only person in the viewing lol. I took it all up and down the Las Vegas strip, vaping quick little hits as I ducked in and out of shops, restaurants, and casinos. I used it at home, I used it at the office, I used it at the store, I used it gym (yes I’m that shameless), I used it at the bank, I used it in a box, I used it with a fox, I used it here and there, I’ll use it anywhere, I do like the Pax era Sam-I-am. All jokes aside you can take this thing anywhere.

After a week of use, I went through 2 whole pods and got started on my third. For those of you who are counting that is 600-1000 puffs. Most consumers would hear that and it would be considered an extreme amount of usage. Some might say that I have a problem. I would say if you don’t live a life that allows you to do whatever you want as much as you want then you’re the one with the problem my guy. I did need to charge it twice, I found that I got about halfway through each pod before needing to do so. I can imagine users that aren’t as indulgent as I am may find they only need to charge once a week. Charge time is very quick usually – done in less than an hour.  

The App

Like the Pax3 the Pax Era is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity to access the all-new Pax app. The app has very minimal impact on the Era as it is not really necessary to use the app for any of its main functions. Those main functions are battery indicator and turning on when you inhale. However, the app does bring you some interesting features and some that are maybe not so necessary. Temperature control is one of those unnecessary features, there aren’t a lot of variations in the effect of the cannabis oil with adjusting the temperature. The only thing that temp variation does with Cannabis oil is affect the vapor-to-flavor ratio. Hotter means more vapor less flavor, cooler means more flavorless vapor, pretty simple. Next is brightness adjustment. The Era only has 4 small LED pedals on the front that don’t really cast that much light to be needing a brightness adjustment. Also, the device is small enough that you could just cover it with your finger as you hit it but oh well, you have to make that app do something I guess.

The only features of the App connectivity and the Era that I enjoyed were first the Child lock and second their games. The child lock is a very interesting and innovative feature. The Pax Era activates with a simple inhale, if you are a parent and use this device to medicate this is very important to you. Chances are that your children will see you duck off to puff every now and again. Monkey see Monkey do when it comes to the case of children. Every little kid wants to be a grown-up like Mom and Dad even if it’s not good for them. The child lock ensures that little Thomas won’t become Tommy Chong until he’s in college. The Last feature is the games. While it might seem childish and unnecessary I’ve always admired and appreciated the games included with the Pax2, Pax3, and now the Era. My favorite is a new game that they have called PAXspin. Similar to “spin the bottle” you place the Pax Era in the middle of you and your friends. The LED pedals will rotate round and round and stop on one, the person sitting closest to the pedal can now take the Era and have a hit. Fun fun fun hahaha.

First Cleaning

I took off the empty pod from the battery. I walked over to the trash can. I threw away the old pod. I inserted a new pod into the battery. The End.

Verdict

A very welcome alternative to cannabis oil cartridges. The Majority of oil cartridges that I find at my local dispensaries are all mass-produced cheap carts that are sourced from questionable manufacturers. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve bought a cartridge and the coil burnt out on me before the oil was all finished. With both of the pods we finished we found consistent flavor and vapor until the pod was empty.  

The Era is Simple in its operation and cleaning. It is Sleek in its function and portability. Most of all it is Smart with its app connectivity and its design. I would recommend the Era to literally anyone and everyone who would like to consume cannabis oil on a regular, semi-regular, or even occasional basis. It will keep for long periods of time, holds a good charge, and delivers delicious potent vapor. Really no reason not to like this little device.

What are your thoughts?

Leave a comment below, and/or rate the Pax Era yourself.  We’d love to know what you think and hear your comments!

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DaVinci IQ https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-iq/ https://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-iq/#comments Thu, 09 Jul 2020 14:00:00 +0000 http://vaporizercritics.com/davinci-iq/ Davinci IQ Review – Introduction The DAVINCI IQ is the 3rd and latest release from Davinci Vaporizer makers of the Ascent and Davinci Vaporizers. The Davinci IQ is a portable battery-operated dry herb vaporizer with precision temperature control. Davinci prides itself on designing its products with 3 things in mind. Purity, Innovation, and Control. Let’s […]

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Davinci IQ Review – Introduction

The DAVINCI IQ is the 3rd and latest release from Davinci Vaporizer makers of the Ascent and Davinci Vaporizers. The Davinci IQ is a portable battery-operated dry herb vaporizer with precision temperature control. Davinci prides itself on designing its products with 3 things in mind. Purity, Innovation, and Control. Let’s see if that shows in their brand-new vaporizer!     

First Impressions/ Unboxing

Unboxing the DaVinci IQ Vaporizer

When you first see the Davinci IQ packaging you notice that it’s not quite like any other vaporizer on the Shelf. The piercing bright orange sleeve of the box helps protect the deep purple box underneath. The box is sturdy with a light texture giving it a quality feel and the magnet lid gives a nice snap to the open and close of the package.

The reveal of the Davinci IQ gives me a sense of gratification in my purchase as I get my first look at the IQ. The 51-light grid and the logo stand out to me and just makes me want to reach out and grab it. The device feels solid, with no loose parts or little clicks when you shake it around. It gives you the impression of a quality device that is carefully designed. When you remove the IQ from its resting foam you’ll notice a sticker and a pull tab for the battery on the back. The sticker gives you a 1,2,3 set of instructions on how to vape your very first bowl. As much as I want to give it the 5 clicks to get started – I reluctantly set it aside to charge while I inspect the remaining contents of the package.

What goodies lie inside this treasure chest? The first thing that I come across is an orange square user manual and a round sticker, a little boring. Next, I find 3 little boxes; one says “Carry Can”, the other “Water Adapter/Extended Mouthpiece” and the final “Accessories”. The Carry Can is pretty straightforward – it is a small keychain-sized can for you to carry extra herbs around with you for your adventures. Each carry can comes color matched to your IQ. Pretty neat little giveaway. The Water Adapter/ Extended mouthpiece, is for all you old Ascent users out there. Not only does this piece give you an actual straw to sip your vapor from making the inhale a lot easier for some, but the extended mouthpiece is also a 10mm ceramic male joint so it fits into your favorite water pipes and rigs. The last box marked “Accessories” was exactly that, this contained our USB charging cord, another Davinci keychain that doubles as a tool and tamper, a cleaning brush, and an industry-leading 9 alcohol wipes for cleaning.

New / Favorite Features

DaVinci IQ Precision Temperature mode

Like the Ascent before it, the Davinci IQ is a precision-controlled vaporizer that gives you the ability to vaporize your herbs at different temperatures in order to achieve different healing effects. When vaping cannabis you will find lighter more cerebral and euphoric sensations at lower temperatures. At higher temperatures past 385°F, you will notice a deeper more full-body sedating feeling. Think couch lock and captain crunch. For medical patients or the cannabis connoisseur, precision temperature allows the user to craft their vape experience. Medical patients will be able to vape at higher temperatures to release more sedating effects for pain management. The recreational user can change flavors by vaping at low temperatures releasing the terpene flavors slowly.

Smart Paths

DaVinci IQ Smart Path #4

In addition to precision temperature control, the Davinci IQ has a new feature called “Smart Paths”. These Smart Paths are preset vaporizer sessions that take you through a range of temperatures throughout the duration of your session. You will select one of the four preset Smart Paths which will begin at a starting temperature and as you vape it will slowly boost, boost, and boost up the temp so you continue to get a steady flow of vapor.  So for those of you who are either not sure how to adjust your temperature when vaping or just simply don’t want to deal with the hassle of it, the Smart Path gives you an easy route to enjoy a full-body vape session to enjoy alone or with friends.

Davinci’s Preset Smart Path Temperatures    

  • Smart Path 1 (350°F- 370°F)
  • Smart Path 2 (370°F- 390°F)
  • Smart Path 3 (390°F- 410°F)
  • Smart Path 4 (410°F- 430°F)

Bluetooth App

[wds id=”2″]Like most consumer electronics it was only a matter of time before the world of apps found its way to portable vaporizers. Davinci brings innovation to its product line with the introduction of its Davinci App. It’s worth noting that my favorite feature of the Davinci App is that the Davinci IQ is not dependent on the app at all. What I mean by that is you don’t actually need the app to use the product. There are several vaporizers on the market that I feel have limited the features of their product and added an app to make up for that make of functionality. With the IQ you can change your temperature, select a smart path, dim and brighten your display, engage boost mode, and check your battery life all using the 3 buttons on the IQ itself.

Now that being said, what the heck does this App do? The app has a dashboard that allows you to view your vaporizer statistics in real time. Kind of like an EKG for your vape keep an eye on that draw and pulse. It also allows you to quickly toggle your brightness on/off, as well as your vibration feature. There is also a fantastic information hub that Davinci has made available. Here you will find tutorial videos on how to use and clean your vape as well as temperature guides on how to vape your favorite buds.

The most interesting feature to me would undoubtedly be the ability to adjust your Smart Path settings. This is really interesting because what it does is make a very simple feature a little more complicated. For you vape enthusiasts that are always messing with your temperatures, trying to turn into the perfect settings to match your favorite strains, this is the feature for you. You will be able to set your paths as steep or even a path that you like. You simply pick a starting temperature, a middle temperature, and an end, and the app will take care of the math for you and run your custom path. After that, your new Path will be saved onto your IQ’s hardware. So next time you want that path it is already on your IQ ready and waiting, no app needed.  

First Bowl

Enough with the fancy stuff let’s get down to business and start vaping. Loading the bowl was very easy. To load the Davinci IQ stand it on its head with the oven end facing up. The oven lid opens to reveal a metallic loading hopper and the white ceramic oven. Load your herbs onto the herb hopper and push them down into the ceramic oven. Make sure to load enough herb that the bowl is full and tamp down but not so much that you cannot draw air through the vaporizer.

To turn the IQ on give the “Control” button 5 clicks and you’re ready to go. Right out of the box the IQ comes preset to Smart Path 3, one would assume the makers at Davinci wanted you to use this setting first to get a good feel of what you can expect from the IQ. So let’s get to it, shall we? The IQ took about 30secs to reach temp at Smart Path 3 which begins at 390°F and slowly increases to 410°F through the vape session. First draw, cool vapor, full flavor, and a huge cloud. The IQ really gives you all it’s got in this setting, hit after hit you get flavor like you’ve never had out of a conduction portable and the vapor production is something to be admired. The IQ has an automatic shut-off of 10 minutes and so runs the duration of the Smart Path.

I empty out the oven to take a look at my buds. I found a tiny bit of green herb at the top where the “pearl” is but the remainder of the bowl was an even coffee brown color indicating that all of the terpenes and cannabinoids available had been vaped out. When using dry herb vaporizers this is what you are looking for at the end of your session. If you see black burnt herbs or even worse ash. You are not actually using a vaporizer but rather an electric smoking device. The Davinci IQ is a true portable dry herb vaporizer.   

First Week with DaVinci IQ

After putting in some real time with the Davinci IQ it becomes clear that this is a vape built for a heavy daily user. The oven is decently large allowing you to vape up to a half gram of ground buds. Davinci does have glass spacers that you can buy that cut the oven size down by 25% and 50% but that is a personal preference. The USB charging makes it easy to plug in anywhere and get some juice going. A lot of vapes come with fancy chargers that only work for their product, so it can kind of limit the “portability” of your portable vaporizer if you’re low on battery and don’t happen to have that charger. Aside from having USB charging but the battery is also removable. For anyone who really is on the road with their vape a lot or if you’re heading out for a weekend camp you can carry an extra battery or two and swap them out as you go. The IQ is powered by a 20A 18650 battery. These batteries are super common in the vaporizer world with the largest box mod style e-cigs, portable dry herb vaporizers like the Ascent, Pax, and others, and they are even used in electric cars such as a Prius or Tesla. If you are going to be using the IQ often and switching out the batteries it’s worth getting an external charger for your batteries as USB chargers can only charge so quickly. In fact, I never once could not use the IQ during this first week as a cause of the battery because I happen to have spares from other vapes available to use already.

I’ve used a plethora of vapes that have precision temp. They are all hit and miss in different ways and give you a different experience depending on how good their manufacturers’ settings are and the bowl material. The compact cylinder-shaped bowl of the IQ and the even heating ceramic make controlling temp very effective. That being said Smart Paths are essentially the only temperature feature I use with the IQ. Having the temperature swing already calibrated in the Path just makes things so easy. Like a nerd, I played with all of the different settings for vaping full bowls only using 1 setting at a time to understand the differences in the paths and even messing with the custom settings. After playing with it all week I found my Ideal settings for vaping top-shelf buds.  I have it set to start at 360°F so the vape releases all of the light citrus tone terpenes first giving you an incredible flavor. From there it will slowly rise to 380°F over 6 full minutes, each hit is only 2 or 3 degrees warmer than the last but the vapor flows fuller and fuller with each hit. Finally, the Vape jumps from 380°F to a Roasting 395°F  at this point I’m usually coughing and reaching for a glass of ice water, but if you can hang with it you will have the best full body high that you ever had from a dry herb vape.

The Davinci IQ has a hidden little feature that is kind of interesting. They call it a flavor chamber. First and foremost it is the air path of the IQ where your vapor travels from your oven up to your mouthpiece to be inhaled. It is easily removable for cleaning but that is not all. You can actually store extra herbs in the flavor chamber to enhance both the flavor of your vapor and the potency of your buds. When you vape your vapor travels over the buds in the chamber pulling flavor from the fresh buds. In addition, the vapor leaves a gooey resin on the buds rather than all over your air path. You can then take the bud from the chamber and put it in your oven for a more potent bowl!

First Cleaning

Cleaning the Davinci IQ is a little bit of a production. There are a couple of little accessories that you will need to remove for cleaning and a couple of nooks and crannies that will need a swab. The mouthpiece, the flavor chamber, and their gaskets are all removable to be cleaned with a quick wipe down or a soak in a small dish of alcohol. The oven to avoid staining should be emptied after every session while the herbs and the bowl are still hot. While your mouthpiece and flavor chamber are soaking you can take a q-tip dipped in alcohol and swab out the oven cleaning out excess residue or junk left behind. The one tricky area of the IQ to clean is the area under the flavor chamber. There is a small gasket that needs to be cleaned both on top and underneath. The best way I found was to take the provided alcohol wipes and brush and wrap the wipe around the brush to push down into the area and scrub it clean. After a good scrub, rinse and replace the mouthpiece and flavor chamber and you are good to go for another week of vaping fun.

The Verdict

Backed by a 10-year warranty and a replaceable battery it’s easy to see how you could have this vape for a long time. With most vaporizers, it is the battery that fails, causing the warranty process with the replaceable battery you won’t have that issue and you will only need a warranty to maintain your oven.  

The Davinci IQ is an innovative product that gives great vapor to the user. It is a smart little device that is full of features and surprises that can make it very unique to the individual using it. Will all of its flash, bells, and whistles it is also as easy to use as 5 clicks on and 5 clicks off with the addition of Smart Paths that take out the guesswork work of the experience. Whether you are a seasoned vaporizer user or someone who is looking to find a discreet and sophisticated way to consume your cannabis the Davinci IQ is the vape for you.

What are your thoughts?

Leave a comment below, and/or rate the Davinci IQ yourself.  We’d love to know what you think and hear your comments!

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Pax 2 https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-2-review/ https://vaporizercritics.com/pax-2-review/#respond Fri, 20 Sep 2019 14:42:09 +0000 http://vaporizercritics.com/pax-2-2/ Pax 2 Review – First Impressions And then there were 2. With the second release from the 500 lbs gorilla of the vaporizer industry, Pax Labs comes the long-awaited Pax2. The Pax2 is smaller, lighter, smarter, and more durable than its predecessor the Pax making it one of the most reliable vaporizers on the market. […]

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Pax 2 Review – First Impressions

And then there were 2. With the second release from the 500 lbs gorilla of the vaporizer industry, Pax Labs comes the long-awaited Pax2. The Pax2 is smaller, lighter, smarter, and more durable than its predecessor the Pax making it one of the most reliable vaporizers on the market. Right away with the Pax2, we notice the difference in size from the original Pax. It is both shorter and a little thinner than its big brother making it 25% smaller overall making this portable vaporizer even more discrete. Another change that we notice right away is the new mouthpiece. The original Pax has a retractable mouthpiece that was also the on/off button. Which was a very cool feature, except for the eventual shortcomings. The mouthpiece would often become sticky with resin from several uses of the vape, it also would sometimes shoot out from the top of the vape and if you weren’t careful it could pop you in the face. Pax has done away with that which helped get the device down to its shorter size and height. This shorter size also makes it hide in your hand a lot better than the original. Now the mouthpiece is a flat silicone surface with a small slit near the edge of the vape that you sip your vapor through. The device is still activated by pushing down on the top where a small button is concealed beneath the mouthpiece.   

The Pax2 also has some new technical features that are very exciting. First, we will start with the Oven.  The Oven is now deeper allowing for easier packing and more even heat across your herbs. The Oven is also smarter with the help of what Pax calls “Lip Sensing Technology”. The folks over at Pax Labs have incorporated this new feature along with an accelerometer in the device that helps save your battery and your herbs in your oven. The Lip sensor knows when you are hitting the vape and boosts the heat of the oven while you are hitting the vape. It does this because when you draw from the vaporizer you are bringing in the cool air that passes over your warm herbs pulling in the vapor to your mouth and lungs. What also happens here is that cool air also cools down your herbs. The brains at Pax Labs figured out that with their lip sensor they could program the oven to boost up in temp to mitigate that drop in temp then you are drawing in cool air to make sure that your full hit stays warm and consistent. The Pax also has a built-in accelerometer that tracks the motions and movements of your Pax2. Why is this important you might ask? Well, have you ever been vaping and gotten distracted by something maybe a phone call or a crying child? Well, then you know that most vapes just keep on heating while you are away from it and thus rotating all of your herbs and wasting all of your vapor. The accelerometer of the Pax2 knows when you have left your little buddy behind after it detects no movement after 30secs. The Pax2 then enters a “cool down” mode and the LED lights on the front of the Pax2 turn blue. The oven will cool down 10 degrees at a time for 90secs. After that, 2 minute period of idle and cool down the Pax2 will automatically turn itself off saving both your battery and your weed.

The Pax2 like the original also gives you that high-end consumer electronic feel that you get with a new tablet or smartphone. Its Apple-Esque packaging and presentation stick out from the pack when you see this beauty on the shelf of your local head shop. The package includes your Pax2 unit, a maintenance kit for cleaning (pipe cleaners and a bottle of alcohol), the USB charging dock, a USB cable, an extra screen for the bowl, and the Pax standard 10-year warranty. Overall a quality product from a reliable manufacturer at a reasonable price now at only $179.99. You also have the option of purchasing the Pax2 with a 2-year warranty for as low as $149.99 an all-time low price for the Pax2. Making it one of the best luxury portable vaporizer brands in its price range. 

First Bowl

Having enjoyed the original Pax quite a bit to say that I’m excited for the Pax2 would be a huge understatement. As with the Pax before it, the Pax2 is incredibly easy to load. Simply stand the Pax2 on its head and it will stand upright leaving the bowl open to being filled. I always had the best success loading the Pax with a fine to a coarse grind of weed which lets the oven heat the herbs evenly with minimal stirring needed. After the bowl is loaded I replace the magnetic oven lid and flip the device over. To turn the Pax2 on just give the center of the mouthpiece a single click. The four LED lights in the signature Pax “X” light up a vibrant purple color indicating the oven is heating. There are now 4 heat settings pre-programmed on the Pax2 instead of the 3 on the Original. The Heat settings are 360ºF (182ºC) – Low, 380ºF (193ºC) – Medium, 400ºF (204ºC) – Medium-High, 420ºF (216ºC) – High. The heat-up time on the Pax2 is incredible at a lightning 45secs to reach temp it is much improved over the Pax and other vaporizers in the market. For our first bowl, we are going to start with the Low and Medium-high settings to get a feel for this bad boy.

The first hit on this setting was absolutely beautiful. So much flavor that I really didn’t expect from a vaporizer with a steel oven but holy cow am I pleasantly surprised. The vapor is cool and flavorful, some might remember the original pax gave vapor that was quite warm. That is something that I say is much improved with the Pax2, I think in part to the new mouthpiece design. The Vapor travels up an air path along the side of the device and then hits a 2 tunnel pathway that directs the vapor around the edge of the mouthpiece to help cool the vapor before inhalation. Hit after hit, I get constant vapor clouds which is probably a nod to the Lip sensing technology that they had built into the device. After a few minutes, we decide to kick up the heat on Pax and push it up to the Medium High setting. To toggle between the different heat settings on the Pax2 you need to enter the “heat selection” mode. To do this press and hold the top button, the LED lights will then turn red and light up the pedals indicating your heat setting. Click the top button to cycle through the 4 heat settings, when you have reached your desired heat setting press and hold the button again to return to heating. Hit after hit we got more and more vapor. The room we are testing in begins to look like something out of a Cheech and Chong movie it was amazing. Such a small little aluminum tube creating such a big impact in the testing room, is incredible.

After the first bowl we were left quite pleased, surprised, and honestly stoned. So much so, in fact, I found myself playing with the “Lip Sensing Technology” to see what it was all about. The front LED display of the Pax illuminates in Purple when it is heating up and turns green when it is at temperature. When your lips come into contact with the mouthpiece the lip sensor sends a signal to the oven to bump up the heat. You can actually see the Pax2 engage the extra heat in the light animations. When your lips touch the mouthpiece the lights begin to pulse upward indicating the heat is rising. Pretty cool when you’re already medicated and looking at it. The pax also has a similar animation when the oven enters the “cool down” mode, the lights turn blue, and the animation motions downward indicating a decrease in temp.

First Week

The first week with the Pax2 was much like being reunited with an old friend. It was a very familiar feeling that I had when journeying around with Original Pax but with all of its new improvements. Again it gives you a similar feel to when you get the latest Smartphone. The iPhone 6 isn’t that much different than the iPhone 7 however it has subtle features and quirks that make it new and exciting to you the user. Also at the same time, the bit of familiarity and uniformity gives you a sense of comfort. You know that you got what you paid for and that it will be a reliable piece of hardware for the years to come.  

With the first weeks of use with the Pax2, it’s easy to take notice of the improved battery life. The original Pax and Pax2 are both powered by a built-in 18650 battery, a common power source for portable vaporizers.  The Pax2, however, features a newer more powerful 18650 that gives you an extra 800mah of vape time. In total, you should get about 4-5 full bowls and vape sessions of 10-15 minutes with the Pax2 or 50-60 minutes of total vape time. This is awesome because that means that the Pax2 is a vape that one can take out for a full day of usage and not have to worry about looking for a power brick to get a quick charge. The “cool down” feature also helps with this improved battery life by turning off the oven when forgetful vapers leave their vape behind with the oven on such as myself.

The Shorter stature of the Pax2 makes it more discrete than that of the original Pax. It’s short enough that it almost completely hides in the clench of my fist and I don’t consider myself to have huge baseball glove-size hands either. It makes it very easy to go on nice walks with the Pax2 in even populated areas and just kind of walk along and vape as you go. I never found a reason or situation to use the High setting on the Pax2. The medium-high setting was more than enough to fully vape a whole bowl down to a nice brown ABV color but I know there are some out there that try to make their vaporizer like a portable smoking device rather than a vaporizer. Typically I found that the Medium and Medium-High settings were my go-to for the Pax2. The medium was a nice mix of flavor and vapor that gives you full flavorful hits with plenty of plume to fill the lungs and give you a good cloud on exhale. The Medium-high was mostly heat and vapor, not that the vapor was hot on inhale but it was more about the vapor production on this setting than flavor chasing.

Hidden Features and Easter Eggs

Also, this vape is full of little tricks and hidden gems that are activated using motion and the accelerometer. To check the battery on the Pax2 simply shake the vape back and forth and the LED lights will display the battery life on 1-4 scale. The Pax also has a stealth mode that dims the LED lights to activate stealth mode.  Shake the Pax2 until the LED X shows the battery then press the button on the top while it is still being shaken. In addition to these features, the Pax still has a few Easter Eggs. Using the “spin technique” you can access these different features. To do so you hold or lay the Pax2 horizontally and spin it away or toward you 3 times which will cycle and activate the feature. The features are listed here in order and to toggle between each you will need to repeat the spin technique. So to reach the 5th feature “Simon” you would need to do this 5 times for a total of 15 spins.

  • Party Mode: All four lights are different and cycle through different colors. There appears to be a rhythm/pattern to the color cycle. Lip sensor activation increases the speed of color change. The oven is on. Standby timer extended to one minute between sensing movement or lip.
  • Party Timer: All four lights are stationary. When the Pax 2 is moved the lights jump into a random light configuration, occasionally one or more of the lights are very dim or off. If the Pax 2 is held face down the lights flicker and change rapidly. Lip sensor activation makes the lights flicker and change rapidly for up to 10 seconds. At 10 consecutive seconds of lip sensor activation the lights freeze. Removing your lips and replacing them starts another 10-second flicker display. The oven is on. Standby disabled.
  • Light Painting: In this mode, all four lights show the same color and cycle through colors while the Pax 2 is being moved, when still, the lights are off. Waving the Pax 2 through the air yields a color-changing stream of light. The heater can be turned off in this mode by selecting a fifth available temperature, all four light blue.
  • Color Carousel: The lights react to the movement and position of the Pax 2. When laid flat the Pax 2 shows blue. When face down, an orangish-yellow. When I hold the Pax 2 upright and give it a little circular flick, the colors begin to cycle with a noticeable pattern. The colors can be seen transitioning from one light to the next as if there is a big globe of colors inside and the lights reflect whichever colors face forward. The heater can be turned off in this mode by selecting a fifth available temperature, all four light blue.
  • Simon: Spin the Pax 2 until all four lights flash white three times. The Simon game will begin. Hold the Pax 2 face up, horizontally in front of you. Observe the pattern displayed on the lights, then repeat the sequence by leaning the Pax 2 towards the appropriate light. The heater can be turned off in this mode by selecting a fifth available temperature, all four light blue.

Simon and Funky Town!

Playing the included Simon game isn’t just for mindless fun. It also unlocks, even more, features than before. If you can manage to play Simon with enough agility and whit to get to level 20 you will unlock the tune of “Funky Town” by Lipps, Inc. From here on every time you power on your Pax2 you will hear the subtle tune of “Funky Town” that is played using the vapes circuit board.

If you can keep your composure and reach level 40 you unlock a new set of colors for the game Simon itself. The colors switch from the standard, Red, Blue, Yellow, and Green to a more sophisticated Magenta, Azul, Amber, and Forest Green Hue. Personally, I haven’t had the patience to get to level 60 so if anyone reaches that and finds something please let me know what it is.

First Cleaning:

Cleaning the Pax2 is almost as simple as the device is to use. Redesigning the mouthpiece to not be a pop-up retractable piece has proven to be a huge improvement. Not only with the day-to-day operation but also with cleaning. To clean the Pax2 you only really need to snake out the air path with one of the included pipe cleaners. The Maintenance kit of the Pax2 comes with several pipe cleaners and a small bottle of alcohol. Dip the pipe cleaner in the alcohol and start to swab out the airpath until it’s clean.

Other parts to be aware of are the oven and the mouthpiece. The mouthpiece cleans really easily with a quick wipe with a paper towel or napkin. You should also make sure to wipe out the cavity where the mouthpiece sits. The last area that needs maintenance is the oven. The steel oven is just as easy as the mouthpiece with a quick wipe of the oven and the lid. You should also make sure to clear out any gunk that might be in the seal of the oven lid as well.

The Verdict

The Pax2 is everything you wish had been designed into the original Pax and more. The reduction in size and the increase in battery life make it more discrete and more portable than almost any other vaporizer on the market. It has a 10-year warranty to take care of any hiccups that might come along during its lifespan and with a well-established company such as Pax Labs I can imagine them keeping good on that 10-year warranty. If it’s not what you are looking for then the cheaper option of a 2-year warranty is even more enticing. 

The Pax 2 is a perfect vaporizer for almost anyone. Whether you are a seasoned vaporizer enthusiast that is looking for a simple discrete on-the-go option. Or if you are a beginner to vaporizers and want something that is both simple and that you won’t immediately grow out of. The Pax2 should satisfy whatever your need or lifestyle. The hidden features and games show the care and quality that Pax put into the design and production of the Pax2 and I personally can’t wait to see what they come with next.

What are your thoughts?

Leave a comment below, and/or rate the PAX2 yourself.  We’d love to know what you think and hear your comments!

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Firefly 2 https://vaporizercritics.com/firefly-2/ Fri, 20 Sep 2019 12:00:34 +0000 http://vaporizercritics.com/firefly-2/ Firefly 2 Review – First Impressions “We’ve heard your voices and we listened”. This is the claim that the folks over at FireFly have made in regards to their greatest and latest vaporizer the FireFly 2. The FireFly 2 is the second release from the self-titled brand FireFly. For those who remember the Original FireFly […]

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Firefly 2 Review – First Impressions

“We’ve heard your voices and we listened”. This is the claim that the folks over at FireFly have made in regards to their greatest and latest vaporizer the FireFly 2. The FireFly 2 is the second release from the self-titled brand FireFly. For those who remember the Original FireFly came on the scene as the first “on demand” style convection vaporizer. The original FireFly was a bulky and heavy vaporizer with bright hot rod style finishes that really stood out from the competition. The problem, however, was that it also sticks out in public when you were using it. Its bulk in size also meant that it stuck out like a brick in your pocket when traveling. The FireFly 2 is drastically smaller and lighter than its predecessor. For those that had the Original,  the new FireFly2 weighs about as much as just the lid of the original. They have also changed the finish of the exterior from that bright candy hot rod to a series of cool matte aluminum in a variety of colors.

While the device is lighter than the original it is by no means cheap. You can see and feel the quality when you first open the packaging which has a high-tech electronic feel like a Samsung smartphone or tablet. Under the lid is made up of a magnesium alloy on the top to help protect from wear and tear and borosilicate glass on the bottom for amazing flavor and is finished off with a quartz window so you can watch your herbs cook. Another shortcoming of the Original FireFly was they’re less than optimal battery life with only 740mah. The new Firefly 2 comes with a spare battery which is a welcome addition to the box for switching out a fresh battery when your battery inevitably runs out of juice. Along with the FireFly 2 and its 2 batteries inside the box you will also find, a cleaning kit complete with alcohol wipes and pick tools, a USB charging cable, and a charging dock.

App and New Features

The latest trend in portable vaporizers is Bluetooth app integration. You know that the makers of the FireFly being based in the San Francisco Bay area were not going to get left behind on this tech aspect. The FireFly app brings a new level of control the FireFly 2 that was not imaginable in the original. The app allows you to do a few things the first and most welcome is being able to check your battery life. On neither the Original FireFly nor the new FireFly2 will you find an indicator of the battery level left in your FireFly. The app gives a simple readout so you know if you need to swap a battery or find a USB charger.

The Original FireFly came under some scrutiny with its lack of temperature control or adjustment. Some referred to it as a glorified and fancy Magic Flight Launch Box as it seemed to only have one temp setting “GO”. The app now brings 6 heat settings, 5 of which are for dry herbs and the last being for concentrates. Using the App you are able to select from one of these presets. Personally, I find these are not so much pre-set temps but rather temperature cutoffs. The way the FireFly works is that you press the power button to fire the coil heater, then you inhale drawing the hot air that passes from the coil over your herbs to heat them and give vapor. There is still a heat-up time with the coil so rather than feeling like I have a set temp I feel more as though the max heat is increased instead.  

The last feature included in the FireFly app is the ability to change the sequence in which you hit the buttons to fire the heater. The FireFly 2 has 2 capacitive sensors for buttons. This means that they are soft touch heat sensitive buttons that just need to sense your finger rather than a full press. There is one button on the left and right sides of the device. Using the app you can change whether the oven will fire using the Left, Right, Both, or Either button to activate the heater for vaping.  

First Bowl

The FireFly 2 like the Original before is an “On Demand” convection vaporizer. This means that at the push of a button a heater begins to heat the incoming air to a temperature that will cause your herbs to give off vapor as the hot air passes over the dry herbs. With convection-style vaporizers you will need to load your vaporizer with finely ground herbs, this allows the maximum amount of air to travel through the leaves of your weed to heat evenly and give off vapor. To load the bowl remove the magnetic top lid and set it aside. Take a pinch of your fine ground herb and place it in the quartz oven. Make sure not to pack too tightly as you need good airflow to get good vapor flow. Brush away any stray leaves that may have gotten on the mirrored surface of the base and replace the lid.

Now that we are all loaded up we are ready to select our heat setting and start vaping. I decided to link up the FireFly 2 to my iPhone and the FireFly app to use this new temp selection that they have built-in. I decided to start with the Medium setting just to see where things are as we get started here. I also quite like the button selection feature that was built in. The buttons are quite sensitive and can be pressed accidentally, I set my FireFly 2 to fire when both buttons were pushed together.      

The First draw is cool to the lips and tongue with only a little tickle of terpene in the back of the throat. You can draw on the FireFly 2 for as long as you can inhale no cut off so I take my full and hold. On exhale, I’m surprised to see no visible vapor but plenty of flavor of the lighter terps and cannabinoids that were lifted off and vaped with the herb. While the air passing over the herbs might be warm the herbs themselves are still cold so they are not giving off as much vapor as you might see from a conduction vape. Hitting the FireFly 2 a few times back to back makes for better results. I begin to take a puff, puff style hits before the long draw similar to how you would hit a cigar that you are trying to light and cherry. This helps warm the herbs up before the long draw and inhale of vapor. Finally, I start getting some visible vapor although it’s important to note that despite the lack of visible vapor I’m still feeling the effects of the cannabis inside. More testing through the week will be the final judge and jury on this vape. Initial impressions are that it takes a little finesse to get going properly.

First Week

The folks over at FireFly should change the name of this vape to a short FF2 which should stand for Flavor and Finesse because that is what you get with the FireFly 2. I made 2 separate trips to the dispensary to get a new strain of cannabis for this vape just to taste the unique flavor profiles of each of the strains because of the ability of the FireFly to gently pull heat the herbs to deliver just the terpenes and light cannabinoids that come with it. It also takes a little finesse to operate the vape if you are looking for larger clouds but if that’s not what you’re chasing then the FireFly 2 is for you. Cannabis enthusiasts that enjoy the raw flavor of the unique strains understand the different terpenes (flavor profiles) and Cannabinoids that make up each strain and their effects and want to isolate them without taking in too much vapor produced from the raw plant matter.

Now that being said, for those vape enthusiasts that are used to your vaporizer giving you a decent bit of vapor with each session listen close. I’ll give you the secrets to get the FireFly 2 to blow some clouds, believe me, you’ll need them. Like I mentioned with the first session it took a little while to figure out how to hit the FireFly 2 to get a good hit with both flavor and plume, and that was on the Medium setting. Going back into the app to try a different heat setting I didn’t even bother using the medium-low or low settings. I just felt I would have just frustrated myself and wasted a good portion of the battery on the vape. Instead, I used the higher temps of Medium High, High, and Concentrate.  Medium High as you can imagine was marginally better than Medium which led me to wonder. How high is the “High” setting exactly? So naturally, I packed a fresh bowl and tried to get high on “High”. Surprisingly enough it was again marginally better than Medium-High. It gave the same great flavor as with Medium and Medium-high however it was a lot easier to get a good plume of vapor with less effort. I sat back thinking about my experience with Medium, Medium-High, and now High I began to wonder again. (Just in case if you were wondering, I wonder a lot when I’m stoned). Anyhow, I begin to wonder why FireFly felt compelled to have these 5 temperature settings in the first place. It really seemed as though they could have done with just 3 a Low, Medium, and High as the in-between settings really have no significant difference in results. This is also coming from someone who prefers precision temp control so I can fine-tune my temperature.

Only the concentrate setting remains. Of course, I had to try and put some dry herb in there before I tried it with concentrates. In my opinion, this was the best setting for the vape. Direct flavor delivery and a vapor plume from the first hit. It was amazing, honestly.  I take back what I said before about them only needing the 3 temps, they need this one also for vapers like me who are used to a larger plume of vapor. Now before I get to how the Concentrate setting worked with actual wax concentrate I want to start off by saying this. You should not use the same device for your dry herb as you do for your wax concentrate. I really wish vaporizer companies would stop trying to make this a thing because honestly, no one can do it properly. What happens is the company will either make a Dry Herb vape that you “can” vape concentrates with. Or they make a concentrates device that you “can” vape dry herb with. You truly can’t make a device for both because both substances have different properties and boiling points to vape properly.

Ok, let’s get this over with. Using Wax concentrates in the FireFly 2…..did I mention you shouldn’t you wax in your dry herb vape? Anyways, the FireFly 2 comes with a concentrate pad that must be used in the bowl when vaping your wax concentrate. The concentrate pad is a steel mesh that is pressed into a puck which has become common among many vaporizers as a concentrate solution. First place the concentrate pad in the oven then put your wax concentrate onto the pad. Using the Concentrate setting we take a few puffs. I have a strong sense of deja vu from the first bowl with the FireFly 2 and the dry herb on Medium. There is intense flavor and the euphoric head high is there however there is a distinct absence of a plume and overall not a very satisfying experience.    

First Cleaning

After a week of testing and also a little bit of concentrate usage it is time to clean the FireFly 2. From my disclaimers from before about not using your wax concentrate in your dry herb vaporizer, it’s impossible to keep them clean when you do. There are too many tight spaces in dry herb vaporizers for you to use wax. Just pulling the lid off the FireFly 2 was difficult because of the wax residue from just a couple of uses. This residue was also mixed with the little bits of dry herb resin that were already coating the vape making it quite a mess.

Luckily there isn’t much to clean on the FireFly 2, unlike some other vapes. You simply remove the lid and with a paper towel or microfiber cloth damp with alcohol you can wipe away any mess or stickiness. Use cotton swabs to clean out the bowl area and get the creases at the bottom. Wipe or let air dry and you are good to go.    

The Verdict

The FireFly 2 is a large improvement over the original FireFly. It is smaller, lighter, and more versatile than its older brother. It comes with adjustable temperature with the help of their Bluetooth app. The kit also includes a spare battery to increase your usage time and improve the practicality of the vape overall.  

All in all given the $329 price tag the FireFly 2 is a vape for the true connoisseur. Anyone else would be disappointed in my opinion. Beginners and people completely new to vaporizers would be left with a very expensive and inefficient way for them to get high. Intermediate users could have some fun learning to use this vape if they were truly into chasing flavors and crafting their buzz. However, I feel that the FireFly 2 is more of a vaporizer for a vape expert and cannabis connoisseur.

What are your thoughts?

Leave a comment below, and/or rate the Firefly 2 yourself.  We’d love to know what you think and hear your comments!

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