The Uwell Caliburn AZ3 17W Pod Mod is the latest in a long line of Caliburn devices that have carved out a reputation for excellent flavor delivery and reliable performance. As an Executive Editor for Spinfuel, I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing many of these devices, and the AZ3 continues the legacy with a few modern twists and a sleek, compact design. Let’s dive in and see how this new iteration stacks up.
Uwell Caliburn AZ3 17W Pod Mod Features
Materials: Aluminum Alloy, PCTG
Dimensions: 68.9 mm × 23.8 mm × 23.6 mm
Net Weight: 39.5 g
E-liquid Capacity: 2 ml
Output Power: Maximum 17 W
Battery Capacity: 750 mAh
Coil Specifications:
FeCrAl Meshed 0.8 Ω CALIBURN A3 Refillable Pod
FeCrAl Meshed 1.0 Ω CALIBURN A3 Refillable Pod
First Impressions & Design
Out of the box, the Caliburn AZ3 immediately impresses with its compact, almost futuristic design. It’s significantly smaller than many of its predecessors, adopting a squarer, more pocket-friendly form factor. The aluminum alloy construction gives it a premium feel, yet it remains incredibly lightweight at just 39.5g. It slips effortlessly into any pocket or bag, making it an ideal choice for on-the-go vaping.
The device features a clear window for easy e-liquid level checking, a common and much-appreciated feature in Caliburn devices. The lanyard loop is a thoughtful addition, although I personally don’t use them. The LED light indicator, while small, provides clear feedback on battery status and charging, utilizing the familiar green, blue, and red color scheme.
One notable design choice is the absence of a fire button. The AZ3 is strictly draw-activated, simplifying the user experience to an extreme degree. This can be a pro for some and a con for others who prefer a button for manual firing. For new vapers or those looking for ultimate simplicity, it’s perfect.
Charging is handled via a USB-C port, a modern standard that ensures fast and convenient power-ups. The magnetic pod connection is robust, holding the pods securely without any wobbling, which is crucial for a reliable vaping experience.
Performance
When it comes to performance, Uwell’s Pro-FOCS flavor technology rarely disappoints, and the AZ3 is no exception. Both the 0.8Ω and 1.0Ω pods deliver exceptional flavor intensity and vapor production for their respective resistances. I primarily tested with various 50/50 VG/PG nicotine salts, and the flavor clarity was consistently outstanding.
The draw is a tight MTL (Mouth-to-Lung), characteristic of the Caliburn series, providing a satisfying throat hit reminiscent of traditional cigarettes. It’s smooth and consistent, without any harshness or unexpected spit-back. Airflow is non-adjustable, but the default setting is well-calibrated for a true MTL experience.
Pod life is respectable. With moderate usage, I found the 0.8Ω pod lasted approximately 10-14 days before a noticeable drop in flavor. The 1.0Ω pod, as expected, offered a slightly longer lifespan. Filling the pods is a breeze with the top-fill system – simply snap off the mouthpiece, and you’re good to go.
The 750 mAh battery might seem modest to some, but given the low wattage output of the pods, it provides ample power for a full day of moderate vaping. Heavy users might need a midday top-up, but with USB-C charging, it’s a quick process. The “Breath-Light” feature, where the LED pulses during drawing, is a nice aesthetic touch, adding a bit of flair without being distracting.
AZ3 vs. AZ3 (GR)
It’s important to note that there are two versions of the AZ3 – the standard AZ3 and the AZ3 (GR). The primary difference lies in the material and finish. The AZ3 (GR) features a “granular” textured finish, offering a different tactile experience and perhaps better grip for some users. Functionally, they are identical, so your choice will likely come down to aesthetic preference. For this review, I used the standard AZ3, and its smooth aluminum finish was perfectly adequate.
Conclusion
The Uwell Caliburn AZ3 17W Pod Mod is a worthy addition to the Caliburn family. It excels in portability, ease of use, and, most importantly, flavor delivery. The draw-activated system makes it incredibly user-friendly, and the compact design ensures it’s always ready to go. While the non-adjustable airflow and lack of a fire button might not appeal to every vaper, for those seeking a straightforward, high-performance MTL pod system, the AZ3 hits all the right notes.
It’s an excellent device for new vapers transitioning from cigarettes, or experienced vapers looking for a discreet and reliable daily driver. Uwell continues to prove why they are a leader in the pod system market.
