The big e-cigarette test from ELIQUIDS.IE - Tested by experienced Vapers

Especially if you want to switch to vaping as a smoker, the huge selection of e-cigarettes can quickly become overwhelming - not so with the big e-cigarette test from ELIQUIDS.IE! We have made various models for beginners and professionals and put them through their paces. Which e-cigarette produces a lot of vapor? Which one has the best price-performance ratio? Which e cigarette do you recommend?

We scrutinized this and much more with our team and came up with four winners in four categories. You can find out which ones are in our large e-cigarette test from ELIQUIDS.IE!

This is how the e-cigarette test works - our test procedure

First of all, it helps to know that there are logically many vapers in our ELIQUIDS.IE team. After all, we have turned our passion into our job. But of course it is not only us who put the devices under the microscope in this e-cigarette test! Since we receive a lot of test devices, we are able to give them to other experienced vapers who also test the e-cigarettes according to our criteria - and not just for an afternoon, but over a longer period of time. Because really good devices need time to "evaporate", just as good liquid needs time to mature.
For our e-cigarette test, we have defined various criteria that should be paid particular attention to. The results were of course recorded in detail and then evaluated in detail. And so we came to our four test winners - which we will present here in detail.

Our test criteria

Everyone "looks" for something different with an e-cigarette. One vaper decides on a certain e-cigarette because the look pleases, the other because it can produce a lot of vapor and the next one because everything is just right with the chosen model. Of course, you have to know for yourself what is important to you personally, but we have defined various criteria that should be examined in more detail:

Development of taste

The best liquid is useless if its taste is not reproduced clearly and purely by the vaporizer. A good atomizer head in the evaporator manages to tease out even the finest aroma nuances and to reproduce the taste clearly and purely. But that's not the only thing to watch out for. How long the vaporizer manages to keep the flavor is also important here. You can imagine it to be similar to chewing gum: it tastes very intense at the beginning, but the longer you chew on it, the more neutral the taste becomes. Good atomizer heads easily manage to keep the taste at a high level for two weeks or more.

Steam generation

The same standards apply to the development of steam as to the taste. Of course, we also make sure that the same base liquid is used for testing. Finally, a liquid with a composition of 50% VG and 50% PG can produce different results than a liquid with an 80/20 composition.

During steam development, attention is also paid to how long the coil "holds out" before steam production noticeably decreases. However, it is not just about the coil: whether the Airflow Control enables good air circulation also falls into this category.

Build quality

Good workmanship is self-explanatory: do all the parts fit together perfectly and without running out? Does the 510 thread grip between the atomizer and the battery mod without jerking or hooking and are the threads milled cleanly? Are there gaps or protrusions that do not affect the function but affect the appearance? How is the e-cigarette packed and are any spare parts included in the scope of delivery?

Innovation

The e-cigarette market is highly competitive and subject to constant further developments. Where does the test device rank in the innovation area? Did you rely on the tried and tested or tried something new? And if innovation was dared, was it worth it? Because who does not know them, the "remedial measures" that deliver less than they promise. This shows whether the innovation works and whether it is a plus for the e-cigarette.

Usability / ergonomics

In our e-cigarette comparison we differentiated into two basic categories: the entry-level and the professional devices. Because a smoker who just wants to switch to vaping expects something different in terms of usability than the experienced vaper, for whom as many setting options as possible for "fine-tuning" are important. How is the device structured and is the operation self-explanatory or do you need the support of tutorials and YouTube videos to find your way around?

In the area of ergonomics, special attention was paid to how the e-cigarette lies in the hand, whether the buttons can be easily reached and also how the material feels. Our e-cigarette test was of course carried out by both female and male testers in order to also examine different proportions of the tested e-cigarettes.

Battery power

Here we examine the battery capacity (in mAh) the e-cigarette has, whether the battery cell is permanently installed or exchangeable and how long you can usually vape with it - although that always depends on how much you vape. Some vapers use the e-cigarette like a cigarette. That means they steam for just under five minutes and then put them away for a certain period of time. Other users, on the other hand, use e-cigarettes much more often, which of course is noticeable in a faster drop in battery power. How the e-cigarette is charged also falls within this range.

Optics

When it comes to optics, it is of course subject to subjective opinion, but you can still evaluate the design according to objective criteria. For example, whether the atomizer forms a good unit with the battery mod or whether it creates an inharmonious picture for the eye. The choice of materials also plays a role here, because whether you use cheap plastic or high-quality stainless steel naturally has an impact on the look.

Product safety

E-cigarettes use high currents and power outputs. This can of course lead to certain risks, especially in the sub-ohm range. Product safety depends on the various protective mechanisms, starting with short-circuit fuses, outgassing holes and the like. It also assesses whether the evaporator is protected from accidental leakage.

Price-performance ratio

Of course, you can take all of the above criteria apart - at the end of the day someone who wants to find the perfect e-cigarette for themselves depends on the overall picture. It should steam properly, taste good, last a long time and be properly processed. Here it depends on how the e-cigarette performs in an overall comparison and whether you get something for your money.

Which e-cigarette is the test winner?

The e-cigarette market is large and continues to grow almost daily. In 2021, a large number of new e-cigarette models have come onto the market again, which make it difficult even for old hands to decide. Not to mention as a switch who wants to switch from smoking to vaping.

That is precisely why we have created two important basic categories: the e-cigarette for beginners and for professionals. The second important difference lies in the type of vaping, in which a distinction is made between "vaping on the lungs" or "direct-to-lung" and back-steaming, ie "mouth-to-lung".

So here they are, our winners of the ELIQUIDS.IE e-cigarette test 2021 in four categories. If you would like further advice on buying e-cigarettes, please do not hesitate to contact our service team

E-cigarette winner category Vaping on cheek: The Aspire Nautilus GT Kit

Aspire is one of the most popular and experienced e-cigarette manufacturers. Aspire e-cigarettes cover the entire spectrum, from entry-level to professional devices. The Nautilus GT Kit is the ideal device for those who switch and those who want to become one. The chic device convinces with modern technology and simple operation.

The Glint Mod and the Nautilus GT atomizer can also be used independently of each other, but in this combination they can develop their full potential. The Nautilus GT atomizer is the further development of the popular MTL atomizer Nautilus. The Glint Mod is of high quality and equipped with the latest technology, such as an OLED display and USB-C connection. The simple operation is of particular benefit to inexperienced vapers.

Product information Aspire Nautilus GT Kit

• Tank volume 3 ml
• Battery 1 x battery (not included)
• Length 134 mm
• Weight 176 g
• Special features Perfect for those switching
• Draw technique steaming on cheek (info)
• Price € 74.99

Overview of test results:

• Flavor development: 3
• Steam generation: 5
• Processing quality: 4
• Innovation: 4
• Usability / ergonomics: 5
• Battery power: 4
• Optics: 4
• Product safety: 5
• Value for money: 4

Development of taste

The flavor development depends heavily on the coil used. The Aspire BVC coils and the Nautilus 2S coils are compatible with the Nautilus GT atomizer. The BVC coils are absolutely convincing in terms of taste and offer a restrictive draft behavior with a small airflow setting, which suits many MTL vapers. We particularly recommend the 1.6 and 1.8 Ohm BVC variant for beginners. The mesh coil included in the scope of delivery is intended for restrictive pulls directly on the lungs and can be used with the AirFlow wide open. Depending on preferences, all coil variants offer an absolutely convincing taste development for beginners.

Steam generation

The steam development also depends on the coil and the AirFlow. With the mesh coil and wide-open AirFlow, more steam is produced than with the BVC coils with a small airflow setting. In both cases, decent, but of course not huge, clouds of steam are produced. The clouds of steam are completely sufficient to create a satisfying steam experience. The AirFlow can be infinitely adjusted via the lower ring on the evaporator with air holes of different sizes.

Build quality

The Nautilus GT Kit is made of absolutely high quality and is therefore right at the forefront, especially for beginners' devices. The Glint Mod is milled from high quality stainless steel. Only the area around the display is made of plastic and occasionally shows fingerprints. The battery compartment is opened with a sliding mechanism that is both easy to use and solidly made. The evaporator is made of PEI, which prevents heat transfer from the coil. The atomizer and the mod fit perfectly to the millimeter. Overall, the workmanship is absolutely fair for its price.

Innovation

This combination is less convincing because of its many innovative features, but rather because of its simple operation and high quality workmanship. Nevertheless, there are very practical innovations included. On the one hand, the combination has a USB-C connection. In the future, this will become the standard for charging and data transmission from any technical device. So your e-cigarette, your smartphone and your tablet can be charged with one and the same cable. On the other hand, the great coil compatibility is very advantageous. Coils can be exchanged between the Nautilus atomizers and the Nautilus GT.

Usability / ergonomics

The usability is adapted to beginners and therefore very easy. There is only the watt mode, in which the wattage can be changed with the two buttons below the display. Overall, the operation is very classic and doesn't do any

Problems.

The classic design is always easy to hold. With a length of 134 mm, the kit is very handy and also suitable for on the go.

Battery power

The kit has space for a 18650 battery with 2600 mAh, which is sold separately. Most of the steamers will easily get over a day with it. The battery can be charged in the device via USB-C with two amps. With this Aspire device you don't have to worry about charging the battery in the device for a long time. Aspire has built in all security functions for this.

Optics

Similar to the operation, the design is kept simple. Due to the materials and clear lines, the device makes a very high-quality impression. The rose gold version in particular is an eye-catcher. The other color options, gunmetal and silver, are rather low-key.

Price-performance ratio

At just under 75 euros, the Nautilus GT Kit is not the cheapest entry-level model. But due to the high processing quality, the many compatible coils and the solid technology, the GT Kit is one of the best MTL kits that Aspire has ever built. A long service life is guaranteed and thanks to the many coil options, the kit can also be used for various pulling techniques.

Conclusion

With this kit, Aspire has fully relied on its own strengths and brought a solid classic onto the market. Anyone looking for a reliable device for back-steaming without any bells and whistles is in good hands with the Aspire Nautilus GT Kit.

Winner cheap entry-level device: GeekVape Wenax M1

GeekVape has established itself as one of the most innovative manufacturers in the industry. This includes the industry's unique cooperation with the legendary football club Paris Saint-Germain, where legends such as Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe play.

So with GeekVape you have a real premium brand in your hand. The GeekVape Wenax M1 is a compact device in the format of a cigar. The device is easy to use and visually appealing and is the ideal device for beginners or on the go.

Product information GeekVape Wenax M1

• Tank volume 2 ml
• Battery permanently installed - 800 mAh
• Length 116mm
• Weight 34g
• Special features Perfect for those switching
• Traction technology steaming on the cheek (info)
• RRP €14.90

Flavor & vapor development

Thanks to the resistance of 0.8 and 1.2 ohms, the flavor development is concentrated and unfolds its full effect in the mouth. The 1.2 ohm pod with a power range of 10 to 13 watts is more restrictive than the 0.8 ohm pod with 14 to 16 watts.

To put it simply: With the 1.2 ohm pod there is more resistance when pulling (closest to a tobacco cigarette) and with the 0.8 ohm pod there is greater vapor development.

The device is not made for large clouds of vapor, but for stylish vaping, whether at home or in public. It is important that the Wenax M1 is also explicitly suitable for higher nicotine strengths. You can fill in liquids with 18mg nicotine or nicotine salt liquids here and the nicotine will reach you without any loss. This is especially important if you want to quit tobacco cigarettes permanently and need to balance your nicotine levels.

Build quality GeekVape Wenax M1

In short: the workmanship is top!

GeekVape is an experienced manufacturer. With the Wenax products, GeekVape has brought a range of stylish and compact devices onto the market. The devices are designed so that they can be left loose in the backpack and still function optimally.

innovation

The Wenax M1 has an automatic pull function, so there is no button that needs to be pressed to get it started. Simply pull and the steam comes out. The wattage is not entered manually, but is set automatically depending on the pod used. The device has no button at all, there is only a modern USB-C port. This ensures simple and worry-free operation.

GeekVape has made sure that the battery provides constant performance from 100% capacity until discharge instead of slowly releasing less and less energy when the battery level is low.

Usability / ergonomics

The housing is made of anodized aluminum. The advantage: high-quality appearance that feels comfortable in the hand. The material absorbs drops, scratches and does not slip out of your hand.

The aluminum housing feels valuable in the hand. Nothing creaks or wobbles. Just a solid block.

The device is also very light with a total weight of 34 grams and therefore sits comfortably in the hand.

Battery performance

The battery is permanently installed and is charged via a USB-C cable. With 800 mAh battery capacity, you can easily get by for over a day with moderate vaping. With constant use, the battery can give up beforehand. Thanks to the USB-C port, the device can be charged almost anywhere. The consistent performance of the battery is convincing and shows the manufacturer's end-to-end concept.

Attention: The USB-C cable is not included in the scope of delivery (available here).

Price-performance ratio

For €15, the Wenax M1 is a really fair deal. Especially because a total of two pods (0.8 ohm & 1.2 ohm) are included in the scope of delivery. Neatly processed, safe and stylish: what more could you want?

Conclusion

You can't go wrong with the Wenax M1. The device is well suited whether as a second device or for entry into the world of vaping. Try it out and let us convince you.

Winner of professional e-cigarette vaping on cheeks and lungs: Innokin Coolfire Z80

With the Coolfire Z80, Innokin presents a handy device with which you can vape both on your cheeks and on your lungs.

If you are looking for high-quality workmanship with many functions and steam modes in a stylish housing, this is the right place for you.

Product information Innokin Coolfire Z80

• Tank capacity 5.5 ml
• Battery 1 x battery (not included)
• Length 129.2 mm
• Weight 146g
• Special features Innovative steam modes
• MTL an DL vaping technology
• Suggested retail price €64.90

Flavor & vapor development

The Zenith 2 atomizer is compatible with the Z-Coils. The 0.8 ohm coils ensure maximum flavor development when vaping (Mouth-to-Lung/MTL). The 0.3 ohm head, on the other hand, ensures open lung vaping (direct-to-lung/DTL) and provides large clouds of vapor.

Both coils are included

Steam modes

The new F Ø mode is a special feature on this device. The alternating current of the mode protects your coils. This means they have to be replaced less often and the full potential of the coils is used without burning them with a lot of power.

Recommendation for vaping on lungs: 20 – 50 

Recommendation for vaping on the cheek: 51 – 100 

Another highlight is the refresh mode. With this mode, 40% less power is suddenly released, while the alternating current simultaneously ensures more liquid injection than usual.

In short: Refresh mode is the turbo for your e-cigarette and ensures much more taste

Service

The Zenith 2 vaporizer can also be used independently of the battery carrier. The 510 connection can be combined with many open systems.

With a volume of 5.5ml, the vaporizer has plenty of space, especially for a device of this size.

The glass of the evaporator is a “tank shield”, which is intended to withstand more impacts. Nevertheless, an additional glass is included in the delivery just in case.

To refill the evaporator, simply push the TopCap to the side and fill in the liquid.

The 18650 battery is replaceable and must be ordered separately as it is not included in the scope of delivery. The battery is replaced using a rotating cover on the bottom.

Build quality

The device is processed appropriately for a device in this price range. High-quality stainless steel, borosilicate glass and a mix of leather-like plastic ensure a pleasant feel.

innovation

The two innovative steam modes Refresh & F Ø as well as the fact that you can steam MTL (on cheek) and DTL (on lung) with this device make the device a real innovator.

Battery performance

The kit has space for an 18650 2600mAh battery, which is sold separately. The majority of vapers will easily get through a day with this. The battery can be charged in the device via USB-C with two amps. With this Innokin device you don't have to worry about charging the battery in the device over the long term. Innokin has installed all security functions for this.

Price-performance ratio

At just under 65 euros, the Coolfire Z80 is not the cheapest model. But due to the high quality of workmanship, the many compatible coils and the solid technology, the Z80 kit is one of the best kits for hybrid vaping (MTL & DTL).

Conclusion

With this kit, Innokin has fully relied on its own strengths and brought a solid classic onto the market. The device is innovative and flexible with great flavor development and high-quality workmanship.

If you like to steam on your cheek and enjoy a strong lungful every now and then, you have found the right device here.

 

Winner professional e-cigarette vaping on lungs: The GeekVape Aegis X – Zeus Sub Ohm Kit

Last, but not least, there is our winner in the category of professional lung steam devices and the Aegis X – Zeus Sub Ohm Kit deservedly won it. This powerful combination is a real smoke gun and uses state-of-the-art technology. With a filling volume of 5 ml, an impressive 200 watt output power and a huge OLED display, you will enjoy it for a long time.

Product information GeekVape Aegis X - Zeus Sub Ohm Kit

• Tank volume 5 ml
• Battery 2 x batteries (not included)
• Length 128.9mm
• Weight 178g
• Power 5 - 200 watts
• Special features: dustproof, waterproof, shockproof, huge display
• Traction technology vaping on lungs (info)
• RRP €89.90

Flavor development

The Zeus Sub Ohm Coil has two compatible coil options. On the one hand, the Z1 coil with 0.4 ohm resistance and 60 - 70 watts and the Z2 coil with 0.2 ohm and 70 - 80 watts. Both are mesh coils in which high-quality organic cotton is processed. This ensures authentic taste and long shelf life. The taste of both coils is what a professional would expect. Absolutely intense and thanks to the innovative airflow and the powerful battery carrier, enough aroma is always evaporated to maintain this taste experience over the long term.

Steam development

The airflow is located in the top cap of this kit. The “Top dual airflow” creates a pleasant and even pulling behavior. This also makes the Zeus Tank leak-proof. A variety of steam modes are on board, which can be used as needed. The AS 2.0 chip uses the latest technology to ensure rapid firing and accurate and consistent performance. When it comes to the sheer size of the vapor clouds, this kit will not disappoint both professionals and beginners.

Build quality

The Aegis X battery carrier is made of various high-quality materials. Among other things, made of brushed aluminum, aluminum and rubberized surfaces as well as a leather handle. The high-quality workmanship not only looks good and flatters the hand, but also has a practical use. Because the Aegis X battery carrier is IP67 waterproof, shockproof and dustproof. This kit is absolutely suitable for outdoor use!

The Zeus Sub Ohm Tank has borosilicate glass and is made of stainless steel. The drip tip is made of Delrin. With the Zeus Tank, GeekVape has not only relied on innovative functions, but also on high-quality workmanship. This means the base can be removed without the liquid running out. Thanks to the top airflow, the tank is leak-proof and there is a double air supply.

innovation

When it comes to innovation, this kit is a real champion. The most noticeable thing is the 2.4 inch (approx. 6cm) OLED color display on the longer side of the battery carrier. The status of the two 18650 batteries is shown individually on this display. The wattage is also displayed, the number of puffs and all other information that is relevant to the respective steam mode. But the real eye-catcher is the look of the display and the unique interface. Both the interface and its color can be changed as desired. The Aegis X cannot be overlooked, especially at night. As already mentioned, the Aegis X Tank is dust, water and shockproof and has an extremely fast chipset.

Usability / ergonomics

The Aegis X Kit is not the handiest device on the market and has a decent weight due to its solid construction. Nevertheless, it was developed to be operated with one hand, which works surprisingly well in everyday life.

Although the display is very large, it is not a touch display. The operation is the only thing that is kept simple with the Aegis X Kit. There is a large button for firing and two smaller buttons for adjusting the wattage.

Battery performance

With a maximum output of 200 watts, the energy must of course have a source. This is a battery carrier that must be loaded with two 18650 batteries. The batteries must be purchased separately and can be charged using the included micro-USB cable. However, given the battery power available here, it is advisable to charge the batteries using an external charger. On the one hand, this is safer and, on the other hand, it ensures a longer battery life.

Price-performance ratio

At 89 euros, the Aegis X Kit with Zeus evaporator is a real investment. If you take a closer look at what you get for the price, the price is absolutely justified. A high-end device with all the features that such a device must have, plus the huge display AND the outdoor-suitable housing.

Conclusion

As a relative newcomer, GeekVape has hit a home run with this kit. If you are looking for a high-end sub ohm device, you will not be disappointed with this kit. Especially since it is sometimes cheaper than other high-end devices without unique features. Anyone who likes that little something extra or who spends a lot of time outdoors can get the best that is currently on the market here.