Best Vape Mods, Kits, and Tanks of 2019 (so far)

When we first reviewed the Rincoe Manto S mod kit, we were a little wary of the ultra-lightweight polycarbonate frame and high aspirations for the wattage output. But you know what? This little beast might not be perfect for all vapers, but this is a damn good stepping off point for new vapers seeking to blow a few room-filling clouds like the veterans.

The dual-18650 Manto S gives you smooth-ramping, quick-firing power all the way to 228 watts, with responsive buttons, cool operations and outstanding battery life. Like, “nearly all-day performance at moderate wattage” battery life. On one set of charged 18650s, I made it through most of a workday, using the mod heavily throughout.

More importantly, it’s just a pleasure to hold and operate. When you combine this comfort with great performance and the solid Metis sub-ohm tank in the box, it’s an even greater value. Do we recommend the Manto S kit for all vapers? Maybe not. But for neophytes looking to achieve top performance at a moderate price? This is a no-brainer.

Rincoe Manto S 228W TC Box Mod Features:

• ·      Dimensions – 80mm by 43mm by 41.5mm
• ·      Dual High-Amp 18650 Batteries – Not Included
• ·      Wattage Output Range: 1-228W
• ·      Max Output Voltage: 8.4V
• ·      Max Output Current: 50A
• ·      Resistance Range – VW/Bypass Mode: 0.05-5.0ohm
• ·      Resistance Range – TC Mode: 0.05-3.5ohm
• ·      Temperature Control Range: 100°-300°C / 200°-600°F
• ·      Ni200, Titanium, and Stainless Steel Compatibility
• ·      TCR Mode
• ·      Bypass Mode
• ·      Power Mode
• ·      Lightweight PC Construction
• ·      Oversized Firing Button
• ·      Two Adjustment Buttons
• ·      Magnetic Battery Door
• ·      Short Circuit Protection
• ·      10 Seconds Cut Off
• ·      Low Voltage Protection
• ·      Over Heating Protection
• ·      Reverse Polarity Protection
• ·      MicroUSB Cable
• ·      Centered 510 Connection

Rincoe Metis Mix Mesh Sub-Ohm Tank Features:

• 25mm Diameter 
• 6mL Bubble Glass Juice Capacity 
• Superior Stainless Steel Construction 
• Quartz Glass Reinforcement 
• Threaded Top Fill System 
• 0.15 Single Mesh Coil – rated for 40-70W 
• 0.2ohm Dual Mesh Coil – rated for 60-90W 
• 0.15ohm Triple Mesh Coil – rated for 80-110W 
• 0.15ohm Q4 Mesh Coil – rated for 130-180W 
• Knurled Dual Slotted Airflow Control Ring 
• 810 Drip Tip 
• 510 Connection 
• Available in Stainless Steel 

Rincoe Manto S Starter Kit Includes:

• 1 Rincoe Manto S 228 TC Box Mod 
• 1 Rincoe Metis Mix Mesh Tank 
• 4 Replacement O-rings 
• 1 MicroUSB Charging Cable 
• 1 Certificate Card 
• 1 Warranty Card 
• 2 User Manual 

REVIEW HERE

I feel like we’ve covered the Trinity Alpha pod mod system so much that SMOK should be sending us royalties (Ed. Note – they’re most definitely NOT doing that). But the truth is, SMOK was firing on all cylinders here, creating a device that really bridged the gap between pod mod convenience and higher-end performance. And it also continues SMOK’s recent trend of pod mods that serve more than just MTL vapers.

What do we mean? The Trinity Alpha uses SMOK’s versatile Nord coils, which were introduced late last year, and can be put to work as a serviceable sub-ohm vape, in addition to the more MTL-focused use devices like this typically lean towards.

That’s right – both the 0.6-ohm (25-watt max) and 0.8-ohm (16-watt max) heads are well below resistances most “pod mod” setups would even consider using. But there’s also higher-resistance heads available within the series, so users seeking a true “one-stop shop” for multiple styles of vaping are going to love this.

No matter which coils we tested, they were all strong performers. Not only are they long-lasting, maintaining flavor for a good stretch, they also handle high-VG juices without concern. Maybe this isn’t a “competition mod” but the Trinity Alpha/NORD coil system is definitely one worth building on for years to come.

As our friend Craig mentioned in his verbal review of the Trinity Alpha, “I’m sub-ohming on the same mod I used nic salts with!” That’s the kind of feedback SMOK is probably looking for. And it’s one of the main reasons the Trinity Alpha is perfect for this list. 

SMOK Trinity Alpha Specs:

• Dimensions – 91mm by 38mm by 16mm 
• Weight – 90g 
• All-in-One Design 
• Integrated 1000mAh Rechargeable Battery 
• Output Wattage Power: 10-25W 
• Resistance Range: 0.4ohm – 1.4 ohm 
• Voltage Input Range: 3.3-4.2V 
• Voltage Output Range: 2.4-6.0V 
• Charging Current: 700mA 
• Variable Output Modes – SOFT, NORM, HARD 
• Highly Responsive Firing & Adjustment Button 
• LED Light Battery Indicator 
• Proprietary Pod Cartridge Installation 
• 8mL Refillable Pod – Convenient Threaded Top-Fill Cap 
• 6ohm Nord Mesh Coil – 25W Max Wattage 
• 8ohm Nord Mesh-MTL Coil – 16W Max Wattage 
• Air-Driven Pod System 
• 510 MTL Delrin Drip Tip 
• 8 Seconds Cut-Off Protection 
• Short-Circuit Protection 
• Low Voltage Warning 
• Micro-USB Port Charging System 
• Proprietary Magnetized Connection 
• Available in RESIN Edition – Prism Chrome, Black, Red / Yellow , Blue, Rainbow, Gold, Green 

SMOK Trinity Alpha Kit Contents:

• 1 TRINITY ALPHA Device 
• 1 TRINITY ALPHA Pod Cartridge 
• 1 0.6ohm NORD Mesh Coil 
• 1 0.8ohm NORD Mesh-MTL Coil 
• 1 MicroUSB Cable 
• 1 Instructional Manual 

REVIEW HERE

The Vaporesso Luxe series is ANOTHER name we’ve dropped a few dozen times in 2019. But why wouldn’t we? Not only is the full-sized version one of our favorites, but the miniature Luxe Nano captured our hearts as well.

You’re probably wondering how an 80-watt integrated battery vape mod did that, but the answer is right inside the diminutive dimensions of the Luxe Nano, which has a 2,500mAh internal cell that outperforms its expectations, and smooth-ramping power all the way to a legitimate 80 watts.

Even better, the Luxe Nano maintains the look, feel and operations of the original. Because it’s a perfectly scaled-down version of its big brother, from the curvy, textured sides, to the haptic feedback touch controls and the glorious full-color display. They didn’t scale back on features, and instead offer newcomers a nearly perfect replica.

That’s right, all the myriad modes and features were included on the Luxe Nano. Everything from straight wattage to advanced temperature curves, and even some interesting “special” modes were included, and all worked flawlessly. 

We could go on, but we’ve already written pages upon pages about this series. For newcomers looking to strike a balance of entry-level and high-end, the Luxe Nano is a ridiculously comprehensive offering – one that truthfully could appeal to any type of vaper. 

Vaporesso Luxe Nano 80W Mod Specs:

• Dimensions – 122.85mm by 40.3mm by 26.2mm 
• Integrated 2500mAh Rechargeable Battery 
• Wattage Output Range: 5-80W 
• Resistance Range: 0.03-5.0 Ohm 
• Other Modes: Smart VW(H/N/S) / VT (SS, NI, TI) / CCT / CCW / VV / CCV 
• TCR Adjustment – 2 Memory Modes 
• Super Player Mode – Broad Tank Resistance ID 
• OMNI Board 4.0 Chipset – 0.001s Insta-Fire 
• 3″ TFT Full Color Display 
• Large Side Fire Button Operation 
• Vibration-Enabled Adjustment Buttons 
• Short Circuit Protection 
• Burn Protection 
• No Load Protection 
• Overtime Protection 
• Low Resistance Protection 
• Low Power Protection 
• Overcharge Protection 
• ESD Circuit Protection 
• Pass Through Protection 
• MicroUSB Port – 2A Max Charge 
• Centered 510 Stainless Steel Connection 
• Available in Black, Blue, Red, Bronze, Rainbow, and Silver 

Vaporesso Luxe Nano 80W Starter Kit Contents:

• 1 LUXE NANO 80W Mod 
• 1 Silicone Case 
• 1 MicroUSB Cable 
• 1 User Guide 
• 1 Warranty Card 

REVIEW HERE

The Wismec Sinuous V80 was a polarizing device in our office. Well, that’s not entirely true – I loved it, my editor didn’t. But in the spirit of recommending devices for ex-smokers and new vapers, we both agreed that the V80 deserved a spot on this list. Because it’s a tiny, palm-friendly mod with a perfect, clicky throw that feels great, no matter how you hold the mod. 

In the name of simplicity, the V80 also features the industry-standard 0.96-inch display here, with the usual array of details and information. While experienced vapers might want a little more from their mod screens, the V80’s display and menus are perfect for newcomers, who will adapt quickly to the intuitive three-click operations.

Normally, companies would try to cram a weak, internal Li-Ion battery inside a device like this, just to maximize convenience for new users. But the V80 is a single-18650 device that delivers true 80-watt power and surprising longevity on a single cell. Though its target audience probably won’t need the headroom, the included 0.27-ohm Amor NSE tank’s mesh coils have some decent sub-ohm chops, so it’s a versatile mod that can be put to use for both MTL and sub-ohm vapers.

Simple operations. Simply enjoyable vaping. No strings, bells, whistles or unnecessary features attached. 

Sinuous V80 Mod Specs:

• Threading: 510 
• Wattage Range: 1W — 80W 
• Temperature Range: 200°F – 600°F (100°C – 315°C) 
• Resistance Range (Temperature Mode): 0.05 Ohms — 1.5 Ohms 
• Resistance Range (Wattage Mode): 0.1 Ohms — 3.5 Ohms 
• Battery Compatibility: Single 18650 (Sold Separately) 
• Output Modes: VW, TC, TCR 
• Height: 3.1875 Inches (81 mm) 
• Width: 1.25 Inches (31.8 mm) 
• Depth: 1.06 Inches (26.9 mm) 

Amor NSE Tank Specs:

• Manufactured By: Wismec 
• Threading: 510 
• E-Juice Capacity: 3.0 ml 
• Body Material: 304 Stainless Steel 
• Tank Material: Borosilicate Glass 
• Height: 44.5 mm 
• Diameter: 26 mm 

Sinuous V80 Starter Kit Contents:

• 1 x Wismec Sinuous V80 Mod 
• 1 x Wismec Amor NSE Tank 
• 1 x WS-M Mesh Coil 0.27ohm Atomizer Head (Pre-installed) 
• 1 x WS04 MTL 1.3ohm Atomizer Head 
• 1 x Set of Spare Parts 
• 1 x QC USB Cable 

A lot of experienced vapers started their journeys with tube/pen-style mods. And I don’t mean the tiny e-cigarette style that’s coming back in fashion. Instead, I’m talking about the tall, cylindrical tubes that resemble something Kenny G would play in his off hours. Okay, maybe that joke was ill-timed, because mods like the Innokin Plexar 100W certainly add a lot of style (and substance) to the form factor. 

While there’s nothing groundbreaking or revolutionary about the all-new Innokin Plexar 100W pen-style mod kit, it does its sole job exceedingly well. Light, but substantial. Sturdy, but slender. Powerful, but consistent. The single-button, direct-wattage Plexar takes the standard pen-style vape archetype and just makes it simpler and better, with 20700 battery capability, and a nicely textured exterior that makes it more comfortable than the typical metal tube devices. 

Even better, this kit includes the excellent Innokin Plex tank and the long-lasting, flavorful coils that come with it. Our first impressions of this tank were mixed, but over time, we learned to really appreciate them for durability and flavor clarity – and we think that’s the perfect combination for a new  vaper looking to make a solid first step into a better alternative to smoking.

If you’re new to vaping, or just a pen-style vape mod enthusiast the Plexar kit offers a truly good value for the money. If that isn’t the right move for a newcomer, I’m not sure what is. 

Specs:

• Manufactured By: Innokin 
• Battery Capacity: 20700 mAh 
• E-Juice Capacity: 4.0 ml 
• Body Material: 304 Stainless Steel 
• Tank Material: Borosilicate Glass 
• Maximum Output Wattage: 100 
• Diameter: 1 Inch (25.6 mm) 

Contents:

• 1 x Innokin Plexar Vape Pen 
• 1 x Innokin Plex Tank 
• 1 x Scion Plex3D 0.14-ohm Kanthal Coils 

REVIEW HERE

Here’s one of those “curveballs” I promised in the intro of this “best of” list. You see, for all the mod and kit recommendations we do, sometimes the best pairings are the ones that don’t come in the box. And if there’s anything a new vaper needs to add to their shopping cart, it’s a tank that exudes versatility. Enter the awesome Aspire Nautilus 2S, which shines as both an MTL and direct lung performer.

First off, this thing is gorgeous. Yes, I just wrote that about a vape tank. But when you check out the pristine, seamless finish and laser-precise machining, you’ll see that this unique bell-shaped atomizer doesn’t resemble anything else out there. 

But, looks are only Pyrex-deep. Let’s get back to the Nautilus’ best quality – it’s long-standing dedication to the proven BVC coil system. These venerable coils, now on their seventh or eighth year of existence (if not longer) are still showing how quality design trumps anything in vaping. These coils have outlasted THOUSANDS of pretender devices, MTL or sub-ohm alike. They last long, can handle a ton of different types of liquid, and almost never come with duds in the box.

And they’re versatile! The Nautilus, long championed as a go-to MTL tank – is welcoming direct lung vapers to the party, with a second, squattier mouthpiece for deeper draws and cloudier pursuits. While it’s never going to replace your cloud beasts, the 2S does a good job serving all audiences involved. The clouds may not be epic, but they’re sizable and flavorful. 

To be fair, the Nautilus 2S is still best when used in MTL mode, but if I was a new vaper heading out for a night with just one tank, this is an unreal choice for all-around enjoyment. 

Aspire Nautilus 2S Tank Specs:

• Manufactured by: Aspire 
• Threading: 510 
• E-Juice Capacity: 2.6ML 
• Body Material: Stainless Steel 
• Tank Material: Pyrex Glass 
• Diameter 25mm 

Aspire Nautilus 2S Contents:

• 1 x Aspire Nautilus 2S Tank 
• 1 x Pre-Installed 1.8-ohm BVC Coil 
• 1 x 0.4-ohm BVC Coil 
• 1 x Extra Frosted “Stubby” Drip Tip 
• 1 x Extra Pyrex Glass Tube 
• 6 x O-Rings 
• 1 x Warranty Card 
• 1 x User Manual 

REVIEW HERE

When we first reviewed the Augvape AIO, we weren’t sure what to make of the appearance. But once we put this slender, well-designed all-in-one kit to work, we were thrilled with the feel and the performance. From the A-1 paint finish to the smooth threaded top cap and outstanding fire button, there’s nothing on this inexpensive device that feels cheap or under-produced.

Plus, the integrated tank/window setup is arguably the best of its kind, giving users a clear view of how much e-liquid remains, without having to look through cloudy plastic (pod mods) or by adding real estate (pretty much all other vape mods).

That said, the AIO is more than a glorified pod mod system. Instead, Augvape gave this kit a fully replaceable coil system, that is easily replaced without having to sacrifice liquid or dismantling the entire device. It’s a simple, smart format that more companies should consider with their pen-style vape mods. My editor, upon first glance, hated it. Then he picked it up, vaped it, and fell head over heels. Well, that is, it became a favorite for a good long while.

And they last a good long while, too! Both of the included coils gave me well over a week of steady, flavorful performance, using thinner and thicker e-liquids alike. All of my standard juices, from 50/50 blends to max-VG varieties all filled and wicked well with the AIO coils. 

In short, if you’re looking for a more productive, foggy vape than you get with pod mods, but don’t want to sacrifice convenience or portability, take a long look at the Augvape AIO.

Augvape AIO Starter Kit Specs:

• 5mm Wide 
• 5mm Total Height 
• 1,500 mAh Battery 
• Micro USB Charging 
• Built-In 2.0ml Tank Capacity 
• 10mm by 2mm Dual Airflow Adjustment 
• 5 ohm Replacement Coils 
• Top Fill Capability 
• Threaded Top Cap 
• Single Button Operation 
• 5 Second Continuous Firing Time 
• Five Clicks On/Off 
• Low Battery Voltage Protection/Short Circuit Protection/Over Current Protection 

Augvape AIO Starter Kit Contents:

• 1x Augvape AIO Device 
• 2x 0.5 ohm Coils 
• Micro-USB Charging Cable 
• Instruction Booklet 

REVIEW HERE

As popular as pod mods right now (and as improved as they’ve become since our last best of list!) they’re just not the most cost-effective way to vape. That’s why there’s a solid market for mods like the Geek Vape Flint kit. This simple, potent little pen mod does a good job delivering the flavor and intensity of nic salt juices in a more-advanced format. There’s more control over the experience than with pod mods, while remaining as portable and convenient.

Maybe it’s not versatile, but the Flint kit is a rock-solid MTL device, with few bells, whistles or distractions to interfere with the task at hand – satisfying vape quality. So, when I tested it, I tried to use it as its target buyer would – intermittently, without pushing it beyond reason or capabilities. Under those parameters, the Flint did an admirable job.

Though I admit to impatiently chain vaping to start, the high-nic liquids I used quickly slowed my roll, and I settled on a more-reasonable vape schedule. This was the perfect way to enjoy the intense, concentrated flavor offered by the included NS coils – especially after vaping higher-VG juices throughout the rest of my day.

I found that both of the coil heads were adept at delivering immediate bursts of flavor and warm vapor, even on the lowest wattage output. Newcomers might be intimidated at first, but like me, once they get used to the Flint’s operations, they’ll likely learn to love how this simple, seamless mod kit performs.

Geek Vape FLINT AIO Mod Specs:

• 22mm Base Diameter 
• 95mm Height – Includes Tank 
• Integrated 950mAh Battery 
• Stainless Steel Construction 
• Three Output Voltage Mode – 3.2V, 3.5V, 3.8V 
• Max Voltage Output: 4.2V 
• Single Button Operation – Hexagon Firing Mechanism 
• LED Battery Life Indicator 
• 10 Seconds Protection 
• Over Heat Protection 
• Short Circuit Protection 
• Low Battery Protection 
• Micro-USB Charging Port – 1A Max Current 
• Ventilation Holes 
• Gold-Plated 510 Connection 
• Available in Serenity Blue, Gunmetal, Black, Rainbow 

Geek Vape FLINT AIO Tank Specs:

• 22mm Diameter 
• 2mL Maximum Juice Capacity 
• Superior Stainless Steel Construction 
• High-Grade Silica Glass Reinforcement 
• Convenient Sliding Top-Fill Design 
• Five Different Airflow Option – AFC Ring 
• 6ohm NS Coil – Optimized for Nic Salts & MTL 
• 2ohm NS Coil 
• Food-Grade Organic Cotton 
• ULTEM MTL Drip Tip 
• Gold-Plated 510 Connection 

GeekVape FLINT AIO MTL Kit Contents:

• 1 FLINT Battery 
• 1 FLINT MTL Tank 
• 1 Spare Glass Tube 
• 1 Spare Parts Bag 
• 1 Instructional Manual 

REVIEW HERE

We know what you’re thinking – another tank on this list? Yeah, but this one is for the “aspirational” new vaper. You know, the guy who learned to ride a bike without training wheels, or swam the instant his dad tossed him right into the deep end. Yep, sometimes new vapers want to advance right to sub-ohming without ever vaping anything remotely “entry-level.” That’s why the Famovape Vector is making the list. 

To experienced vapers, there’s likely nothing distinct or unique about this look and feel. But they hit a home run when it came to the coils. Though there’s only two in the box, the Vector coil series has three different mesh coil varieties, and they’re all fantastic.

All of the included Vector heads lasted nearly three weeks after I first fired them. That’s great performance for a low-wattage MTL atomizer, much less a juice-hungry sub-ohm offering, but that’s exactly what happened here. All the coils offer similar levels of flavor and vapor, but if you only get to choose one, the triple-coil head is one of the best we’ve seen to date.

Still, that’s not what makes this a beginner-friendly option. Instead, that comes from the sheer value of this setup. You see, the Famovape Vector comes in at a VERY competitive $22.95 retail — a fraction of what most tanks of this ilk cost. And even better, the Vector is compatible with several SMOK and Vaporesso coil heads, only adding to the tremendous value this tank offers. 

If you’re a newcomer looking to fog rooms from the get-go, run, do not walk to your shop or computer and buy this tank immediately. 

Famovape Vector Sub-Ohm Tank Specs:

• 25mm Diameter 
• 5mL Maximum Juice Capacity 
• Superior Stainless Steel Construction with Resin 
• Famovape Vector Mesh Coil System 
• 15ohm Vector Single Mesh Coil – Rated for 40-100W 
• 2ohm Vector Dual Mesh Coil – Rated for 60-120W 
• 15ohm Vector Triple Mesh Coil – Rated for 80-150W 
• Dual Bottom Adjustable Airflow Control 
• Convenient Push-Slide Top Fill Design 
• 810 Cobra Resin Widebore Drip Tip 
• Gold-Plated 510 Connection  

Famovape Vector Sub-Ohm Tank Contents:

• 1 VECTOR Tank 
• 1 0.15ohm Vector Single Mesh Coil 
• 1 0.2ohm Vector Dual Mesh Coil 
• 1 Spare Glass Tube 
• 1 Set of Spare Parts 

REVIEW HERE

We love the SMOK Trinity Alpha, but they didn’t write the book on hybrid, high-performing pod mods. That honor is bestowed to the awesome Lost Vape, who created the awesomer Lost Vape Orion Q 17W AIO Starter Kit.

Though it’s not the DNA-enabled beast its forefather was, the Orion Quest might be the better investment. It features a proprietary chipset with a 950mAh internal battery, and updated pod cartridges, but maintains the original’s high-end design and top-flight construction. That’s right – a pod mod made of hefty alloy, with carbon fiber or resin designs on the side, and a simple “plug and play” format that will appeal to newcomers and experienced vapers alike.

Because it’s a 17-watt device (as compared to the original’s 40) the Quest benefits from the integrated 950mAh battery. I managed a day and a half of casual MTL vaping on one charge, and the only depreciation in vape quality came at the very end of the battery’s charge, when we were perilously close to the end, anyway.

The pods are another highlight – once the coil is saturated, the flavor hits nicely, and gets much better after an hour of steady vaping. And unlike 99% of the competition, the Orion Quest pod cartridges are good for a large number of refills before disposal. I took one using nic salt liquids for nearly two straight weeks before the coil gave up the ghost. 

Sometimes, words aren’t enough. If you’re a newcomer, a frustrated ex-smoker, or any vaper who wants unparalleled vape quality, sleek portability and a mod that can endure any amount of use and abuse, the Lost Vape Orion Quest needs a spot atop your personal short list. 

Lost Vape Orion Quest Kit Specs:

• Dimensions: 93mm by 37mm by 13.5mm 
• Internal 950mAh Rechargeable Battery 
• Proprietary Onboard Chipset 
• Maximum Wattage Output: 17W 
• Stainless Steel Frame & PC-110 (Food-Grade) Pod Construction 
• Intuitive LED Lights – Proper Mode Assessment 
• Highly Responsive Firing & Adjustment Button 
• 2mL Refillable Pod Cartridge Design 
• Proprietary Pod Cartridge Installation 
• 0ohm KTR Orion Pod – Kanthal 
• MTL Delrin Drip Tip 
• Dual Adjustable Airflow – Located Below Drip Tip 
• Threaded Cap Top-Fill Design 
• Micro-USB Port 
• Short-Circuit Protection 
• Weak Battery Protection 
• Temperature Protection 
• Low/High Resistance Protection 
• Frame Colors – Stainless, Black, Blue, Gold Frame 
• Panel Colors – Black Weave 

Lost Vape Orion Quest Contents:

• 1 Lost Vape Orion Q Edition 
• 1 Micro-USB Cable 
• 1 Instructional Manual 

REVIEW HERE