Aspire has consistently led the charge in vaping innovation, from pioneering early bottom-coil designs to delivering revolutionary tanks like the original Cleito. The Cleito’s unique coil-as-chimney design was a game-changer, and the Cleito 120 further pushed the boundaries of sub-ohm performance. Now, Aspire introduces the Cleito EXO, a sub-ohm tank designed with TPD compliance in mind, featuring a 2ml capacity and an innovative top airflow system.
While the original Cleito redefined coil structure, the EXO refines this concept. Its design makes it more compact, significantly reducing the likelihood of leaks, a common concern with many sub-ohm tanks. This evolution marks another step forward in Aspire’s commitment to user-friendly and high-performing vaping hardware.
Aspire Cleito EXO Sub-Ohm Tank Features
2ml Capacity (TPD Compliant)
Top Airflow System
Utilizes New Cleito EXO Coils
Compatible with Original Cleito Coils (Note: Not recommended for TPD regions due to capacity implications)
Available in Three Colors: Black, Silver, Blue
Dimensions: 23.5mm diameter x 57mm height (including drip tip)
Aspire Cleito EXO Sub-Ohm Tank
A Familiar Design, with an Important Twist
The moment you pick up the Cleito EXO, its lineage is undeniable. It carries the familiar design cues of the original Cleito, yet introduces significant structural changes. The most notable alteration is the new top airflow system, a departure from the bottom airflow of its predecessors. This design choice inherently makes the tank far more leak-resistant, as any condensation or minor overflow is contained within the tank rather than seeping out the bottom.
Aspire maintains its ingenious “coil-as-chimney” design principle. The coil itself extends from the base to the drip tip, eliminating the need for a separate central chimney section. This maximizes space for e-liquid and enhances flavor delivery by providing a more direct path for vapor. The EXO’s design accommodates this while also incorporating the top airflow, a clever feat of engineering.
While the top airflow significantly reduces leaking, some vapers might find a slight compromise in vapor density and flavor intensity compared to direct bottom airflow. This is a common characteristic of top-airflow designs, as the air intake is further from the coil. However, Aspire has done an excellent job minimizing this trade-off, ensuring the EXO still delivers a satisfying vape experience.
Performance: Flavor and Vapor Production
The Aspire Cleito EXO comes with two coil options: a pre-installed 0.16Ω coil rated for 60-100W, and an included 0.4Ω coil designed for 40-60W. Additionally, it is compatible with the original Cleito coils, although using them will limit the tank’s capacity to 3.5ml, which may not be ideal for TPD-regulated markets.
0.16Ω Cleito EXO Coil (60-100W)
This coil delivers robust vapor production and impressive flavor, particularly when pushed towards the higher end of its wattage range. For optimal performance, we found the sweet spot to be around 75-85W. At this wattage, vapor is dense and warm, and flavor notes are clear and distinct. Given the top airflow, the overall experience is surprisingly good, showcasing Aspire’s ability to fine-tune their designs.
0.4Ω Cleito EXO Coil (40-60W)
The 0.4Ω coil offers a more conservative vape, perfect for those who prefer slightly lower wattages and longer battery life. Between 45-55W, this coil provides a smooth, flavorful vape with ample vapor for its rating. It’s an excellent option for everyday use, balancing performance with efficiency.
Compatibility with Original Cleito Coils
While the EXO coils are designed for the top airflow system, the tank’s compatibility with original Cleito coils is a significant bonus for existing Cleito users. When using an original Cleito coil, the tank’s capacity increases to 3.5ml, which might appeal to users outside of TPD-regulated areas. Performance with original coils remains excellent, retaining the signature Cleito flavor and vapor production, though the top airflow interaction is slightly different than with the dedicated EXO coils.
Refilling the Aspire Cleito EXO
The Cleito EXO features a convenient top-fill design. To refill, simply unscrew the top cap to expose two large fill ports. This wide opening makes refilling quick, mess-free, and compatible with most e-liquid bottle nozzles. Once filled, screw the top cap back on securely. The system is intuitive and user-friendly, minimizing downtime between vaping sessions.
Aesthetics
Visually, the Cleito EXO maintains Aspire’s sleek and modern design language. Its compact stature and clean lines give it a refined look that pairs well with a variety of mods. Available in classic black, elegant silver, and a vibrant blue, there’s an option to suit different personal styles. The proprietary wide-bore drip tip seamlessly integrates with the tank’s design, though it also accommodates standard 510 drip tips placed on top of it, offering some customization.
Aspire Cleito EXO: The Pros
Compact and portable design
Excellent vapor and flavor production for a top-airflow tank
Virtually leak-proof due to top airflow system
Effortless top-fill mechanism
Backward compatible with original Cleito coils (with capacity change)
Attractive aesthetic with multiple color options
Aspire Cleito EXO: The Cons
2ml e-liquid capacity may be restrictive for heavy vapers or non-EU regions
Proprietary drip tip (though 510 drip tips can be placed on top)
Flavor might be marginally less intense compared to bottom-airflow Cleito models (subjective to individual preference)
Top airflow, while great for leak prevention, can sometimes slightly mute flavor compared to direct bottom airflow.
Aspire Cleito EXO Sub-Ohm Tank
Conclusion
The Aspire Cleito EXO represents a thoughtful evolution in the Cleito series, specifically addressing the growing demand for TPD-compliant, leak-resistant tanks. While its 2ml capacity might be a drawback for some users outside of regulated markets, its compact size, robust performance, and superior leak prevention make it an attractive option for many vapers.
For those seeking a reliable, hassle-free sub-ohm tank that delivers impressive flavor and vapor without the worry of leaks, the Cleito EXO is a commendable choice. It builds on the strong foundation of its predecessors while introducing practical innovations that enhance the overall vaping experience. Aspire has once again demonstrated its prowess in creating user-centric and high-quality vaping hardware.
Score: A
A reliable, leak-resistant sub-ohm tank with good flavor and vapor, ideal for TPD markets.
