Desire X-MOD 200W & MESHDOG Kit Review

Though I’m not that familiar with most of their products, that’s about to change this week, after Desire sent TWO high-powered vape mods to review. But let’s start with the larger of the two – the Desire X-MOD 200-watt mod kit.

This tall, broad, altogether unique-looking vape mod integrates a 200-watt maximum output chipset, that offers power, full temperature control suite, power curve adjustment, and much more, in a strangely comfortable dual-18650 box mod.

Despite the forward-thinking styling, the X-MOD is an old-school box mod at heart, with a standard three-button operation system, ubiquitous 0.96-inch OLED display, and just enough of an LED light display to make the single-color, aluminum frame come to life. Old meets new? We’re interested.

First Impressions of the Desire X-MOD

I was prepared to not like the X-MOD, based solely on the tremendous size. Not only is the device tall and broad, but also wide. Basically, unless you make your living dunking basketballs, there’s a good chance the X-MOD will feel unwieldy.

But then you hold it for a while. The dramatic, tapered cutaways on either short side of the device help put the X-MOD in a comfortable grip, while the textured “ripples” on the broad sides help keep it that way. Plus, the angled, top-positioned fire key is in a perfect location for thumb-firing enthusiasts (even if it does obscure the vertically oriented display a bit).

Speaking of which, the X-MOD’s three operation buttons are all rock-solid and extremely responsive. The device might not be the fastest-ramping thing on the market, but the clicky buttons certainly aren’t the reason why.

My only concern out of the gate? The X-MOD doesn’t have an ounce of visible venting – a major no-no for safety and comfort concerns.

Quality and Design Aesthetics

Let’s lead with the positive – every square inch of the X-MOD is absolutely top-quality. The negative? There are a LOT of square inches to be had. Let’s back up…

From the pristine machining, seamless battery door design and reassuringly weighty heft, there’s no cut corners from Desire’s team here. The X-MOD feels like it could survive countless drops from significant heights, while still keeping things intact. I didn’t test this… but I really didn’t have to.

On the flip side, the overall design of the X-MOD is going to be a love/hate proposition. Those who enjoy simple, unadorned boxes with smooth edges and a lot of heft are going to enjoy this new addition to their collections. But those looking for anything even close to pocket-friendly are going to want to reconsider. Though the lines are smooth, and the edges don’t dig into the palm, there’s simply too much surface area here… especially for a dual-18650 mod.

But one thing’s for sure – there’s nothing else on your shelf like this. For some, that’s more than enough.

Standout Features

Normally, when I get vape kits, the companion tanks are usually a weak spot, rather than a highlight. But Desire flipped the script with the included Meshdog Sub-Ohm Tank. This 24.5mm diameter tank has a fairly conservative 4.3mL capacity. But what it lacks in storage, it makes up for in pure, unmitigated flavor.

First, using the included Bulldog Mesh Coil, rated at 0.18 ohms, I enjoyed ridiculously clean draws of nuanced flavor, and surprisingly ample vapor production. But even when these long-lasting (9 days!) coils finally tap out, the Meshdog Tank is fully compatible with those SMOK TFV12 Prince coils you might have lying around.

Using the Desire X-MOD and Meshdog Tank

Performance and usability are two different things, and two different results for the X-MOD.

Based solely on performance, the X-MOD is an absolute winner. From the easily navigated menu trees, responsive controls and smooth performance all the way to 200 watts, there’s nothing here that doesn’t work perfectly. Low or high, TC or power, the X-MOD is everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

In terms of usability, the X-MOD might hit a few more sour notes. The size isn’t just a negative for portability – it also affects grip, firing position,  display visibility and more. In short, this isn’t a “one hand” vape mod, and considering the polished exterior, you might not want it to be.

Pros:

– Pristine construction and machining

– Responsive buttons

– Solid, efficient chipset

Cons:

– SIZE!

– Antiquated menu format

– Have we mentioned the size?

Spinfuel VAPE Recommendation

First, measure your hands and gauge your ability to not drop things. Then make your decision. I love the performance, am split on the aesthetic, but have to pass on the tremendous form factor. I say, “try, then buy”