The Highly Anticipated IPV4 100W: A Detailed Review
The Pioneer4U IPV series has consistently been a dominant force in the high-wattage box mod market. After the widespread issues encountered with the IPV3, many enthusiasts were eagerly awaiting the next iteration, hoping for a return to the quality and innovation the brand was known for. The IPV4, boasting 100 watts of power and advanced temperature control capabilities, arrived amidst significant anticipation. This review delves into whether the IPV4 truly lives up to its promise, examining its design, features, and performance.
The IPV4 marks Pioneer4U’s significant leap into temperature control technology, integrating the sophisticated YiHi SX330-V4S chip. This not only pushes the device to an impressive 100W but also introduces a dedicated Joule mode for precise temperature management. As we explore the device, we’ll assess its build quality, user experience, and, most importantly, its vaping performance across both wattage and temperature control modes.
Pioneer4U and the IPV Legacy
Pioneer4U has established itself as a pivotal manufacturer in the vaping industry, particularly known for its IPV series of box mods. The original IPV2 was a groundbreaking device, celebrated for its robust performance and introducing advanced features to the market. Its successor, the IPV3, however, faced widespread criticism due to a myriad of issues, including unreliable 510 connections, poor internal wiring, and a flawed design that hindered its overall functionality and user experience. This history set a high bar for the IPV4 to not only innovate but also to redeem the series’ reputation.
IPV4 100W Box Mod: Key Features and Specifications
The IPV4 comes packed with an array of features designed to enhance the vaping experience for both cloud chasers and flavor enthusiasts. Powered by the advanced YiHi SX330-V4S chip, it offers robust performance and precise control.
Output Power: 7W – 100W
Output Joule: 5J – 50J (for Temperature Control mode)
Output Voltage: 1.0V – 7.0V
Input Voltage: 6.4V – 9.0V
Standard Atomizer Resistance: 0.1 ohm – 3.0 ohm
Temperature Control Atomizer Resistance: 0.1 ohm – 1.0 ohm
Chipset: YiHi SX330-V4S
Battery Compatibility: Dual 18650 (requires flat top batteries)
Charging: Onboard USB charging port
Display: OLED screen
Material: Aluminum construction with a magnetic battery door
Connector: Spring-loaded 510 pin
Temperature Control Range: 200°F – 572°F
First Impressions: Design and Build Quality
Upon unboxing the IPV4, the first thing that strikes you is its refined aesthetic and solid construction. Gone are the sharp edges and industrial feel of its predecessors. The IPV4 presents a sleek, rounded design with a tactile finish, giving it a much more comfortable grip in the hand.
The device features a subtle carbon fiber inlay on the battery door, which adds a touch of sophistication without being overly flashy. The painted finish, while attractive, raised some initial concerns about its durability, though it held up well during testing. The magnetic battery door is a welcome improvement, providing easy access to the dual 18650 batteries without the hassle of screws.
The firing button and adjustment buttons are well-integrated and responsive, offering a satisfying click without any rattle. The OLED screen is bright and clear, displaying all essential information legibly. Compared to the bulkier IPV3, the IPV4 feels significantly more ergonomic and portable, making it a comfortable daily driver.
Performance Evaluation
The true test of any box mod lies in its performance. The IPV4, with its YiHi SX330-V4S chip, promises excellent power delivery and precise temperature control.
Wattage Mode
In wattage mode, the IPV4 delivers power consistently and efficiently. We tested it with various atomizers, including the Arctic Tank, SMOK TCT, and Atlantis, across a range of wattages.
60W: Using the Arctic Tank at 60W, the vapor production was abundant, and the flavor rendition was crisp and clear. The device maintained a stable output without any noticeable lag.
80W: Pushing it to 80W, the IPV4 continued to perform admirably. The ramp-up time was quick, and the vape remained smooth and powerful, consistent with what one would expect from a high-quality regulated mod.
100W: At its maximum 100W output, the IPV4 showcased its full potential. The power delivery was robust, producing dense clouds and intense flavor, especially with suitable sub-ohm tanks and RDAs. The YiHi chip handles the wattage output with impressive accuracy.
Temperature Control Mode
The temperature control (TC) feature is a standout addition to the IPV4. This mode requires atomizers built with Nickel (Ni200) wire.
Setting up TC involves a few simple steps:
Attach your Ni200 build to the device.
Once attached, the device will ask “New Coil Up / Same Down.” Select “New Coil Up” to register the cold resistance.
Adjust the desired Joule setting (power for TC) and then the desired temperature in Fahrenheit.
We tested the TC mode extensively with Nickel builds on various RDAs and RTAs, setting the temperature at 450°F and experimenting with Joule settings from 25J to 45J. The performance was remarkably smooth and consistent, effectively preventing dry hits and providing a very enjoyable vape experience.
The IPV4’s temperature control performs on par with, and in some aspects even surpasses, the acclaimed DNA40 chip. The YiHi SX330-V4S chip offers excellent temperature regulation and a satisfying vape. While the menu navigation for TC might require a slight learning curve for new users, it becomes intuitive quickly. The initial display of Joules instead of wattage for TC can be a minor point of confusion, but it’s a proprietary approach that works effectively.
Battery Life
Powered by two 18650 batteries, the IPV4 offers impressive battery life, even when vaping at higher wattages or in temperature control mode. Depending on usage frequency and power settings, users can expect a full day, if not more, of consistent vaping before needing to recharge or swap batteries. This dual-battery configuration ensures excellent endurance, a crucial factor for a high-performance device.
IPV4 vs. SX Mini: A Quick Comparison
While both devices offer temperature control and premium vaping experiences, they cater to slightly different preferences. The IPV4 is a powerful, dual-18650 device aimed at high wattage and robust TC performance, offering great value. The SX Mini, on the other hand, is a single-18650 device known for its compact design, premium build, and incredibly precise YiHi chip, often considered a luxury item. Both deliver excellent performance, but the IPV4 provides a more powerful and longer-lasting option for its price point.
Pros and Cons
To summarize our findings, here’s a quick overview of the IPV4’s strengths and weaknesses:
Pros:
Excellent Build Quality and Ergonomics
Accurate and Powerful YiHi SX330-V4S Chipset
Reliable 100W Wattage Mode Performance
Outstanding Temperature Control (TC) Capabilities
Impressive Battery Life with Dual 18650s
Magnetic Battery Door for Easy Access
Spring-Loaded 510 Pin for Flush Atomizer Fit
Onboard USB Charging
Cons:
The painted finish, while attractive, may show wear over time.
Initial navigation of TC Joule settings can be slightly confusing for new users.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The Pioneer4U IPV4 100W box mod is a triumphant return to form for the IPV series. It addresses many of the shortcomings of its predecessor, the IPV3, while introducing cutting-edge temperature control technology. With its robust YiHi SX330-V4S chip, the IPV4 delivers exceptional performance in both wattage and temperature control modes, making it a versatile device for a wide range of vapers.
Its improved ergonomics, solid build quality, and impressive battery life further solidify its position as a top contender in the high-wattage box mod market. While the initial learning curve for temperature control might be present, the rewards are well worth it.
For those seeking a powerful, reliable, and feature-rich box mod with excellent temperature control at a competitive price, the IPV4 comes highly recommended. It’s a device that truly lives up to the hype and delivers a premium vaping experience.
