Best Smok Pod Systems Compared

In previous years Smok was known for their huge mods and immense power, not to mention their futuristic, space-age design (think of the Smok Alien for example!)

But Smok has evolved, and in recent years has produced a range of highly popular pod systems. At the same time, the quality of Smok pod systems has improved, making them a viable option both for newer vapers and for vapers who are looking for a simpler alternative to a vape mod.

So in this post, we’re highlighting the key features of the best Smok pod systems so that you can choose the right one for your needs.

What is MTL & DL vaping?

Do note that vape style here refers to Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) or Direct Lung (DL). Not sure what it means? See our guide MTL v. DL for an explanation.

Contents

• Best Smok pod systems summarised
• Best overall Smok pod system
• In-depth
• What's next?
• Related guides

Looking for a more than just pod kits? Take a look at our picks of all Best Smok Vape Devices.

Reviewed by: Dawn, ECD Team 

As an experienced vaper, I personally look for more advanced features in my devices. However, for newer vapers choosing a first kit, it's crucial that a device is straightforward and easy to use. Having used both Smok’s Propod and Propod GT devices, I feel they fit this criteria - with fixed-coil pods and no settings to worry about. 

Both devices feature 22W fixed power settings and similar battery capacity. Yet, some small but noticeable differences provide choice depending on what you prefer from a device.

The Propod has a slimmer, classic design while the GT is square and more compact. Both devices feel robust, and I find the Propod’s rubber base provides a particularly good grip. 

Using the included 0.8ohm Novo pod and nic salts, both devices provided a flavourful vape. The Propod GT’s adjustable airflow meant I could create an airy vape, while the Propod’s fixed airflow provided a more restricted inhale. While I prefer an airy vape, the more restricted inhale would be great for former smokers looking for a cigarette-style vape.

Another noticeable difference is the devices’ activation modes. The Propod GT has buttonless, inhale-activated firing, while the Propod provides inhale and button firing. I thought this was a nice touch for the Propod as I personally prefer the choice of both. A range of pod resistance options is another bonus - allowing users to try out different styles of vaping.  

In terms of battery life, as a moderate vaper, both kits lasted me most of a day of use. However, USB-C charging meant they recharged quickly.

Overall, while they are not packed with features, both these devices have all the convenience and attributes needed for a no-fuss introduction to vaping. 

Reviewed by: Maya, ECD Team 

As a Direct-Lung vaper who usually uses sub-ohm mod devices, I was intrigued to try out the Smok RPM85. While the 85W output and low-resistance coils mean it can still provide my preferred vape style, I was interested to see how this pod mod compared. 

My favourite thing about this device was the battery life. With the fixed 3000mAh battery, I was able to vape for 2 days without the battery level dropping. As a frequent vaper, I found this very impressive. 

TIP: If you prefer replaceable batteries and more power, see the RPM 100 device.

The flavour was also excellent with this device. Using the included 0.23ohm RPM3 coil with my favourite Doozy Strawberry Milk shortfill, I was able to get a smooth, airy vape. The airflow adjustment was also easy to use and meant I could create an even more airy inhale. This, combined with the pod’s extra wide mouthpiece, allowed for maximum clouds and flavour (although the mouthpiece may be a little uncomfortable for some). 

I also found the coil life very impressive - with the 0.23ohm coil lasting 11 days before needing to be replaced. 

Design-wise, the device felt lightweight yet sturdy and was comfortable to hold, although at times the mostly metal finish made it feel quite slippery. The large fire button was comfortable to use and something I like to see on devices, while the adjustable colour display feature was a nice touch for customisation. 

While I like the handy coil locking feature and the large, clear design that makes it easy to see my vape juice levels, I did find the pod a little difficult to fill, especially with my 100ml shortfill bottle. 

Overall, this is a great device for battery life and flavour that I’d recommend to sub-ohmers and cloud chasers looking for an alternative to bulky mods. 

The Nord Series is Smok’s most popular range of devices. So, it’s not surprising that you’ll notice no less than five different Nords on this list!

An update on the original Nord, the Nord 2 retains the classic compact, pod-style design and comfortable, duck-billed mouthpiece, but offers improved versatility and power compared to its predecessor.

The Nord 2 provides more than double the power output of the Nord (40W compared to the Nord’s 15). The 1500mAh battery also gives an extra 400mAh, meaning longer battery life between charges.

Suited to intermediate and advanced vapers, the Nord 2 is compatible with a range of coil resistances to give you the option of different vaping styles. You have the choice of a restricted Mouth-to-Lung vape (when used with the included 0.8Ω mesh coil) or a Direct-Lung vaping style (when used with the 0.4Ω.mesh coil).

From the Nord 2, we skip straight to the Nord 4 (as Smok’s Nord X is considered the 3rd in the Nord series). The latest adaptation of the Nord offers even more power, battery life and versatility than its predecessors. The power output of 80W is double that of the Nord 2 and more than 4 x the original Nord. 

This is a versatile device that can create big clouds and can give both an airy Mouth-to-Lung vape and a tighter, restricted Mouth-to-Lung vape that resembles a cigarette. Controlling the airflow is easy via the steering wheel style adjustor on the device. What’s more, the 2000mAh battery capacity means you can use it for substantially longer between charges when used at the same wattage as the Nord 2 (40W).

The Nord 4 has also been given a stylish makeover. While it still retains the classic pod design of the previous Nords, there are more colour options than ever before - plus the addition of 3 chic leather options.

Not everyone wants a big, bulky vape device that produces huge vapour clouds. The Smok Nfix Pro is perfect for stealth vaping. In addition to being super slim, and compact enough to carry in your pocket, it provides a cigarette-style MTL inhale with small amounts of vapour.

The Nfix Pro is an upgraded version of the popular Nfix original, now with replaceable coils and adjustable airflow. The easy-to-use adjust airflow and the OLED display are great features for helping newer vapers get to grips with how the device works and experiment with different inhale styles.

While the Nfix Pro isn’t quite as beginner friendly as the fixed-coil pod design of the original, it’s still easy enough for most vapers to use. While you will need to manually change the coils, the push-fit installation makes this as easy as possible.

One of the only negatives we could find with the Nfix Pro is the 70-minute charging time. As we’re currently seeing devices that charge in as little as 15 minutes, this is a bit long in comparison.

Direct-Lung vape devices don’t need to be big, bulky and complicated, and Smok proves this with their first exclusively Direct-Lung Nord. The Nord 5 provides impressive power and a Direct-Lung inhale while retaining the pocket-friendly size and ease of use the range is known for.

An ideal kit for DL vapers who don’t want a high-maintenance device, the Nord 5 combines up to 80W of power with low-resistance mesh coils to create rich flavour and vapour. There’s also step-less airflow control to help you precisely tailor your inhale.

Featuring a simple design of a fire button and up/down control buttons, this is a fairly easy-to-control device. But you will need to familiarise yourself with the button combinations for different functionalities. Smok has also managed to squeeze an OLED display screen along the side of the device that will help you get to grips with how it is functioning.

The Nord 5’s 2000mAh battery capacity is impressive for its size. However, the 1hr+ charging length may be a little long for some, especially compared to some of the super-fast charging devices we’re seeing nowadays.

Smok’s first foray into the IP-rated pod mod market, the IPX 80 is a great outdoor device. With its tough design and long-lasting battery, it’s a great option if you spend a lot of time outside.

With an IP67 rating, the IPX 80 features a water, dust and shockproof design that helps protect against the elements. The 3000mAh battery capacity is impressive for a device of this size and is, again, ideal for outdoor use. You can spend longer periods of time away from a charging point without having to worry about being without your device.

The IPX 80 also boasts impressive power and versatility - outputting up to 80W and supporting a range of inhale styles. Working with a range of compatible pods and coils, the device can provide both MTL and DL vaping. The super-smooth dual adjustable airflow wheels also allow precise airflow tailoring so you can make your inhale as tight or airy as you like.

Reviewed by: Lloyd, ECD Team 

I’m very impressed with Smok’s Novo Master kit; it has everything I look for in a pod vape - from its design to its battery life, flavour and versatility. 

Firstly, the metal alloy build feels solid and robust in my hand which is always a bonus. I also liked that you get the choice of either inhale or button-activated firing. This, combined with the adjustable airflow feature gives this device the versatility I look for when choosing a pod kit.

I tested the Novo Master using the 0.6ohm pod with VG:PG 50:50 e-liquid and took advantage of the Boost Mode feature. When activated, this increased the wattage to 30W and created a noticeable increase in both flavour and vapour. 

The only downside to using Boost mode was the cost of some extra battery life. Despite this, as a moderate vaper who uses around 4ml e-liquid daily, the 1000mAh battery still lasted a full day on a single charge so was great for using when out and about. 

Finally, the pods’ top-filling design means they were easy to top up and I found they fit snugly into the device with no leaking.  

Overall, this is a great MTL pod kit and would be particularly suited to vapers who value great flavour and want a no-fuss device with long-lasting battery. 

Also see: The Novo Master Box for a square-shaped version. 

An update on the popular original Solus device, the Smok Solus 2 makes a perfect starter kit for new vapers - without breaking the bank! One of the most budget-friendly devices out there, this compact pod device has all the easy-to-use features you’d want from a first kit. Using fixed-coil pods and inhale firing, there are no coil changes or power settings to worry about.

A 700mAh battery provides long-lasting power, which is essential for just-switched smokers who are fighting the urge to smoke. However, the one-hour charging time is a little long compared to others on the market.

Please note, as there is only one pod provided with this kit, we would recommend purchasing a pack of pods at the same time to ensure you don’t run out.

Reviewed by: Dawn, ECD Team 

Having previously used many Novo Series devices, I was keen to try out the Smok Novo 5. 

With a 30W wattage range and 900mAh battery capacity, the Novo 5 is an improvement on previous Novo devices in terms of power.  The addition of fixed-coil pods also adds convenience. 

In terms of design, the device feels robust and the soft suede finish felt comfortable in my hands. 

With the power at 15W and using the included 0.7ohm pod with my favourite nic salts (Ohm Brew Loco Lemon Tart) I found it produced good flavour, especially when setting the adjustable airflow to fully open. 

Battery life was the only slight downside I found with this device. As a moderate vaper, I found that while the battery lasted most of a day I did have to recharge it. However, this may not be the case for lighter users.

One of my favourite things about this device is the option of inhale and button-activated firing. This is a functionality I like in vape kits as you get the best of both worlds.

While the Novo 4 appeals to both new and experienced users, its latest sibling, the Novo 2S, is even easier to use and a perfect starting point for newbie vapers who want a more simple device that requires minimum fuss.

The buttonless Novo 2S can output up to 20W and sets its own power output based on the resistance of the coil being used. It also features inhale activation and uses fixed-coil pods that take the time and effort out of coil changes. When the coil reaches the end of its life you simply replace the pod.

All of these features mean there’s hardly any set-up needed to use the Novo 2S - you simply fill the pod, clip it into the device and inhale to start vaping.

Smok releases new products constantly so expect plenty more from Smok! We'll continue to keep this post up-to-date with the most interesting Smok devices.

• Best Smok Vape Devices 
• Best Vape Kits
• Best Pod Mods
• Best Vape Devices for Heavy Smokers
• Beginner’s Guide to Choosing & Using a Vape Pod Kit