By Spinfuel Editorial • Nashua, NH • March 24, 2026
The introduction of the Eleaf iStick Pico sparked considerable excitement, marking a fresh iteration in a series that once dominated the vape industry. The iStick lineup originally propelled Eleaf to prominence, and while their influence never completely waned, the brand was due for a resurgence. The iStick Pico delivers precisely that boost. For readers short on time, take note: the Eleaf iStick Pico earns an unequivocal A+ recommendation from Spinfuel.
The Eleaf iStick Pico & Melo 3 Mini Kit: An Overview
The Eleaf iStick Pico and Melo 3 Mini Kit bundles a compact 75W temperature control box mod with a surprisingly capable tank. This combination stands out as one of the finest starter or intermediate kits released recently. Indeed, the Pico is so impressive that it might cause your larger, more powerful, multi-battery mods to gather dust.
Key Features at a Glance:
Ultra-Compact Design: The Pico is remarkably small for an 18650 mod, ensuring discretion and effortless portability.
Robust Power: Capable of 75W output, it also features comprehensive temperature control (TC) for Nickel, Titanium, and Stainless Steel.
Upgradeability: Firmware is upgradeable, ensuring future compatibility and performance enhancements.
Single 18650 Battery: Powered by a single removable 18650 battery (sold separately).
Exceptional Value: The full kit typically retails around an accessible price point of $39.95.
The Pico boasts a spring-loaded 510 connector, accommodating tanks up to 22mm in diameter without overhang. Users wishing to employ larger tanks will require an adapter or may need to consider an alternative device. Its unique screw-on top cap for battery access, while unconventional, is a clever design choice that contributes significantly to the Pico’s diminutive stature.
Another distinctive design element is the placement of the up/down adjustment buttons on the bottom of the mod. This intelligent choice further contributes to the Pico’s sleek, compact form factor, making it even more discreet. While it may require a brief adjustment period, it’s a minor consideration given the overall benefits.
The Melo 3 Mini Tank: A Perfect Companion
The accompanying Melo 3 Mini tank, with its 2ml capacity, is perfectly scaled to complement the Pico. It utilizes Eleaf’s renowned EC coils, celebrated for their exceptional flavor delivery and ample vapor production. The kit includes a pre-installed 0.3ohm Kanthal coil and an additional 0.5ohm Kanthal coil, with full compatibility for Eleaf’s EC TC coils (Nickel, Titanium, Stainless Steel).
Featuring a convenient top-fill system and an ingenious hidden airflow control, the Melo 3 Mini performs exceptionally well. It consistently delivers excellent flavor and vapor for a tank of its size, proving itself a robust performer among 22mm atomizers.
The iStick Pico in Practice: Daily Performance
After extensive daily use, the Eleaf iStick Pico has firmly established itself as my preferred device. Its ergonomic design allows it to fit comfortably in hand and pocket, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go vaping. Despite its lightweight nature, the device exudes a sense of solid, quality construction, and its durable finish has shown no signs of wear or scratching.
Battery Life and User Experience
Battery life on the single 18650 Pico is notably impressive, particularly when paired with the Melo 3 Mini at moderate wattages (e.g., 30-40W). A single battery can easily sustain a full day of moderate vaping. For heavier users, carrying a spare or utilizing the convenient passthrough charging feature (allowing vaping while charging) is recommended.
The menu system is commendably intuitive. A simple triple-click of the fire button grants access to switch between wattage, bypass, and various temperature control modes. Adjustments to wattage or temperature are smoothly executed via the discreetly placed bottom buttons, ensuring a straightforward and hassle-free user experience.
Performance in Temperature Control
In temperature control mode, the Pico delivers impeccable performance. Testing with both Nickel and Stainless Steel coils yielded consistently smooth and reliable vaping, completely free of dry hits. The inclusion of a preheat function is a welcome addition, providing an initial burst of power to rapidly bring coils up to temperature.
Melo 3 Mini Performance
The Melo 3 Mini tank complements the Pico’s performance admirably. It’s an excellent choice for vapers prioritizing flavor, while still producing a respectable amount of vapor for its compact dimensions. The top-fill mechanism offers convenience, and the hidden airflow system operates flawlessly, providing a smooth, quiet draw without any undesirable whistling. My experience primarily with the 0.3ohm Kanthal coil has consistently resulted in a highly satisfying vape.
Conclusion & Spinfuel Recommendation
The Eleaf iStick Pico stands out as a truly phenomenal device. Its blend of compact size, powerful performance, stylish aesthetic, and exceptional reliability makes it a top-tier choice. Whether you’re a newcomer seeking an outstanding starter kit or a seasoned vaper desiring a discreet and dependable daily driver, the Pico unequivocally delivers.
Spinfuel enthusiastically recommends the Eleaf iStick Pico and Melo 3 Mini Kit. This meticulously designed kit offers remarkable value for its price point. Eleaf has unquestionably achieved a resounding success with the Pico, earning it a definitive A+ rating from our editorial team.
