The HCigar VT250S DNA 250 Box Mod ($149.95 Element Vape) is equipped with Evolv’s most advanced chipset yet. A bit later we’ll look at that DNA 250 chip. But for now, I’ll stick with non-Evolv features of the successor to the HCigar VTi250.

About the HCigar VT250S TC Box Mod

The HCigar VT250S is what is referred to as a 2/3 mod. A 2/3 mod is a device that can run effectively with 3x 18650 batteries, as well as 2x 18650 batteries. The WISMEC Reuleaux 2/3 was the first such mod to feature this split, and since it was deemed a successful release, other companies are following suit.

With a fully loaded HCigar VT250S the maximum wattage output is, naturally, 250W. By removing the 3^rd battery and using the included flat back battery cover, the modular design of the HCigar VT250S becomes a box mod capable of outputting a maximum wattage of 167W.

Since I am reviewing the “yellow” finish model I can agree with others I’ve spoken with that the HCigar VT250S does has an “automotive grade finish” of a thick, super glossy, super smooth feel. And the accents of a brushed stainless steel extends that description even more, like tailfins on a 1950’s Cadillac.

The HCigar VT250S DNA 250 has a very different look and feel from it predecessor, the larger, grenade-type shape of the VTi250. The HCigar VTi250’s unique shape and size made it my favorite mod of 2017 so far, but I would have to say that the new VT250S is more accessible to the masses, and so has a better chance of being widely accepted. This new model if offered in the deep yellow finish that I have, and a black-as-midnight glossy finish.

The general shape of the three-battery box mod has become the standard for these tri-cell mods, and when equipped with the 3x cells the VT250S carries this standard shape well.

That said, like the WISMEC Reuleaux 2/3, the VT250S offers an interchangeable battery door that allows the box mod to run with a two-battery configuration and 167W max output, in a smaller footprint, but just as elegant and beautiful as its 3x cell configuration. Using a very smart approach to converting the 3x cell mod to a 2x cell mod, the 3^rd cell is placed against the larger battery door. Remove the access door and in one movement you’ve removed the 3^rd cell.

Lastly, unlike most 3x cell mods with their pull-away battery door, the HCigar VT205S features a stainless steel button on the top of the device and only by pressing this button can that door be removed.

The Evolv DNA 250 Chipset

Evolv’s DNA 250 is still the current top dog in the Evolv chip line. The DNA 250 chipset features a wattage range of 1 to 250W.  It’s also possessed with a 97% power efficiency rating.

The DNA 250 chipset from Evolv is power regulated via a digital switch-mode DC-DC converter for personal vaporizers. It features Evolv’s fully patented Wattage Control, Temperature Protection, Preheat, Digital User Controls, OLED Screen, Onboard Buttons and Synchronous Rectification for maximum battery life and minimal heat generation.

The DNA 250 runs from a 2 or 3 cell lithium polymer battery, and features cell-by-cell battery monitoring with an integrated balance charger up to 2A. The USB port and Evolv’s EScribe software can be used to customize or monitor the Vape experience of the user. It is called the most advanced personal vaporizer controller made today.

Of course, the Evolv name became a household name among Vapers with the introduction of Temperature Controlled output using Ni200 (Pure Nickel) and has since then become a powerful TC chip with support for Ni200, Titanium, and Stainless Steel. When combing the power of the DNS 250 and the PC-only Escribe application, Vapers can customize a great many things to tweak the vape experience for the user.

The Evolv DNA 250 chip and it’s Escribe software combines efficiency, range, versatility, and customization to the everyday Vaper.

The elegance and sophistication of the HCigar VT250S, paired with Evolv’s DNA 250, and the Escribe software platform, makes this box mod every bit as powerful and satisfying as the HCigar VTi250.

To learn the basic operation of the DNA 250 in the HCigar chassis, I recommend reading our review for the HCigar VTi250, where we cover the basic operations, and more.

Battery Marriages

To remain as safe as possible when using a mod with a maximum of 250W of output it is vital to that batteries be matched in brand, model (mAh and Amperage)  along with battery state, always. Recharge and discharge batteries within the same group of 3. Don’t take any chances.

Conclusion

About 18 months ago I didn’t think much of HCigar, but these last several months, beginning with the HCigar VT75, I’ve come to know HCigar as a company that builds great mods using excellent materials. The decision to build several box mods around the Evolv DNA chipsets was a wise one.

If it’s your decision to use a mod equipped with an Evolv DNA chipset, then it’s my opinion that HCigar is a fine company to look to. I’ve owned and used several and each one is still alive and kicking.

Using the HCigar VT250S DNA 250 TC Box Mod was a lot of fun. No matter what tank or coil I wanted to throw at it, the performance was as brilliant as ever. It’s easy to see that HCigar built another strong, beautiful machine to house the Evolv DNA 250 chip.

Because I already own the previous model, the HCigar VTi250 DNA 250  , there is no reason for me to spend the $150 for an upgrade. At most, it’s a lateral move. But for Vapers looking to grab a fine DNA 250 machine, and wants the option of using 3 cells or just 2, this one is an excellent choice.

Tom McBride

HCigar VT250S Features:

• Evolv DNA 250 Powered
  • 1 to 250W Output Range
    • Three Battery Mode
  • 1 to 167W Output Range
    • Two Battery Mode
  • Firmware Upgradeable
    • Escribe Powered
  • See Below for Full Specifications
• Temperature Control Suite
  • Ni200 Nickel Support
  • Titanium Support
  • Stainless Steel Support
  • Additional Settings Configured Through Escribe
  • 200 to 600 Degrees Fahrenheit
• 2/3 Battery Design
  • Three 18650 With Standard Door
  • Two 18650 With Compact Door
  • Spring Loaded Contacts
  • Batteries Sold Separately
  • Allows for Easy Exchange and Replacement
  • Gold Plated Contacts
• Three Button Control Face
  • Oversized Firing Button
  • Classic Button Arrangement
• Unique Brushed Stainless Accents
  • Stylish and Unique
  • Textured Control Face and Battery Access Panel
• 0.91 Inch OLED Display Screen
  • Displays Essential Data Neatly
  • Adjustable via Escribe
• Escribe Companion Software
  • Configure and Modify the operation of the DNA 250
  • Escribe Download Link
  • Escribe Interactive Training Course
• Stainless Steel 510 Thread Point
  • 24K Gold Plated Spring Loaded 510 Connection

HCigar VT250S Dimensions:

• Three Battery Mode
  • 85mm by 50mm by 39mm
• Two Battery Mode
  • 85mm by 34mm by 39mm

EVOLV DNA 250 Features:

• 1 to 250W Output Range
• 1 to 9.3V Output
• 0.1 to 2.0 ohm Kanthal A1 Resistance Range
• 0.08 to 1.0 ohm Temperature Sensing Range
• Temperature Range
  • 200 to 600 Degrees Fahrenheit
• Cell by Cell Monitoring
• Cell Balancer
  • 1A USB Charger
• Atomizer, Weak Battery, Temperature, Resistance, Auto Power Down, and Heat Protection
• Escribe
  • Configure and Modify the operation of the DNA 250
  • Escribe Download Link
  • Escribe Interactive Training Course
• Autosensing Temperature Resistance
• Lock Mode
• Stealth Mode
• Power Lock Mode
• Power Preset Mode
• Resistance Lock
• Max Temperature Adjustment
• Efficiency
  • 97%