Best Smok Pod Systems Compared

Updated: February 2023

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.

For more Smok devices other than pods, see our Best Smok Devices post.

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
• In-depth
• Team favourites

Looking for a wider variety than just Smok? Make sure to check out our best vape kits, best pod mods & best pod systems round ups.

Similar in design to the RPM40, the Smok RPM 4 improves on its predecessor with an increased output of 60 watts, a larger 1650mAh battery and the additional option of leather finishes.

A versatile device with 2 compatible pod and coil options (RPM and LP2) the RPM 4 can cater to all vaping styles including MTL and DL. Both versions of the pod are included in the RPM 4 kit so you have the chance to try both.

Another great upgrade is the inclusion of a stepless sliding airflow control on the side of the device - allowing you to tailor your air intake with accurate precision.

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.

Despite its ‘Pro’ name, the Nord Pro actually makes a great option for new vapers. Small, stylish and super easy to use, this has all the beginner-friendly features you’d want in a starter kit.

With a single-button design, inhale firing option and automatic power settings, there is limited setup required. You simply insert the coil (made easy with push-fit installation), fill the pod, wait a few minutes then inhale on the mouthpiece.

Despite its simplicity, the Nord Pro does provide some versatility. With up to 25W of power and a choice of high and low-resistance coils, it can support both MTL and DL inhale styles. This, along with adjustable airflow, is a great feature for helping vapers progress and experiment with different styles as they become more experienced.

The latest in the Nord range, the Nord 50W is (unsurprisingly) a 50W device that can be used for all vaping styles and used with both high VG & 50:50 e-liquids.

As well as all the usual features of a Nord device - including sleek and simple single-button design, adjustable airflow, USB-C fast charging and OLED screen, the Nord 50W promises to be the most versatile yet.

The Nord 50W comes with a choice of 3 different pods - each compatible with a different Smok coil range. You can choose from RPM, Nord and LP2 pods - leaving you spoilt for choice when it comes to which coils you can use.

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.

Part of the popular Novo Series, the Smok Novo 4 manages to strike a balance between being easy enough for new users, while still having enough customisability to appeal to those with more experience.

With a single-button design, easy-to-fill pods, push-fit coil installation and 25 watts of adjustable power, new vapers should be able to operate the Novo 4 with ease.

The inclusion of a steering wheel-style airflow control is a new feature not seen on previous Novo devices and allows users to experiment with a more airy or restricted airflow.

There’s also the inclusion of a small OLED screen displaying device information, this helps users not only keep tabs on the status of the device but to also learn more about how it’s operating.

Also see the Novo 4 Mini for a more compact version.

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.

First, it’s worth noting that no one Smok device is right for everybody - it all depends on what meets your needs. For example, the Smok RPM80 Pro would be great for a Direct-Lung vaper but terrible for a Mouth-to-Lung vaper. So one of the best ways to select a device is to use the table at the top.

That said, we do have a few personal favourites, based both on our own experience and feedback from other vapers.

The Nord series has proved very popular with our customers and this shows no sign of slowing down as they continue to improve the devices with each new release.

Store Manager Lee is one of these fans and is particularly fond of the Nord 4:

After using a few pod systems, I’ve found the Nord 4 gives me everything I need. It has a large battery for a pod system and a great range of coils. It’s also got adjustable airflow - which not many pod systems do, so I was happy, I was able to change the airflow to how I like it while using nicotine salts.

It comes with two different pods which is also great. I use the RPM pod for nicotine salts and I use the RPM 2 pod for when I want more vapour production. You can get a great amount of vapour from the Nord 4

Kayleigh from the marketing team thought the upcoming Smok Thiner is a nifty little device.

It’s so small and thin that it fits inside my phone case so it’s perfect for when I’m out and about and don’t want to be carrying a heavy device. It also provides a good amount of flavour andvapour for such a small and easy to use vape.

What’s next?

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.

Which is your favourite Smok pod system? Let us know in the comments below!