Is the iJoy SHOGUN UNIV Vape Mod Better as a Kit?

It’s already well-established that we love the iJoy Shogun UNIV mod (see our mod review). And we were pretty happy with the Katana tank. So, when iJoy decided to pack these two strong items together in a value-oriented starter kit, we couldn’t help ourselves. We just had to take another look.

Our previous reviewer kinda summed up the Shogun vape mod in the very first line of his review – “No nonsense. No ridiculous features. No stratospheric wattage capabilities. Just straight-ahead, power-focused performance.” Well, that was a powerful opening statement, and this reviewer isn’t inclined to disagree.

The company hasn’t made any changes – the Shogun is still powered by the UNIV chipset, and is still designed to balance comfort and usability, without bogging down the proceedings with unnecessary features. For nostalgia’s sake, let’s take another look.

The iJoy SHOGUN UNIV 180W TC Starter Kit is an everyday, high-performance system featuring dual-side resin panels with the advanced UNIV Chipset filled with intuitive functionality to pair with the Katana Sub-Ohm Tank. The iJoy SHOGUN 180W Mod implements a compact box-like design with visually-pleasing resin colorways that truly stands out amongst other modern vape kits. Powered by dual high-amp 18650 batteries (sold separately), the Shogun is capable of 180W output with the UNIV Chipset, outputting maximal clouds with a near-instantaneous response.

Initial Impressions and Aesthetics

For the uninitiated, the Shogun is a sleek, curvy box mod that hearkens back to a simpler time in vaping history, with a classic box mod aesthetic that still maintains modern sensibilities. With a centered 510 connection, standard three-button design, monochrome OLED display and removable side panel/battery slot, you’d be forgiven for thinking this came out in 2015.

Of course, there’s the resin… which is somehow back in fashion after disappearing for a year or so. The panels are top-quality in terms of design, but we’re still a little bummed they’re not interchangeable like other companies’ products.

I have to agree with my coworker about just how well-machined the Shogun’s zinc alloy/resin chassis really is. When I first held the mod, I thought the device would dig into my palm thanks to the slightly raised edges, but that wasn’t the case. Though you can definitely tell the edges are there, it never becomes uncomfortable.

Yeah, it’s a standard-looking box design, to be sure. But don’t be fooled into thinking this is an old-school device – the Shogun is definitely light years ahead of where we were in the early days of higher-wattage vaping.

Standout Features of the Shogun UNIV

When we first reviewed the Katana tank as part of its namesake kit, we were kind of confused. Sure, it was/is a damn good sub-ohm tank, with a nice set of mesh coils that are compatible with several other iJoy tanks, and it vaped perfectly well. But it didn’t stand out against any of the other industry leaders… or even iJoy’s other sub-ohm tanks. It was just sorta… there.

That opinion really hasn’t changed. But looking at the Shogun kit as a collective package, instead of critiquing its originality, this is a fine pairing. Newcomers to the series, or even to sub-ohm vaping, will receive one of our team’s favorite mods, along with a versatile and proven tank system that shares coil compatibility with a ton of other products.

And, as always, iJOY’s commitment to quality, cost-effective vape coils is evident here. The KM1 and DM-M2 coils are flavorful, with ample vapor production and good longevity. I managed roughly 8-9 days per coil before they tapped out, and that’s with heavy use during testing. I can imagine a more casual vaper getting a few more days, easily.

So, our key takeaway? Is this kit original? Not a chance. But a good value? Absolutely.

Vaping the iJoy SHOGUN UNIV Kit

At this point in vaping, I’ll go ahead and make an assumption – you probably don’t vape consistently at 200 watts. Maybe I’m being arrogant, but call it a hunch. So, even though the Shogun isn’t giving you ridiculously high outputs, what’s here is MORE than enough to keep “regular” vapers at bay. And since the included coils are rated for very moderate wattages, you likely won’t even notice that you’re not pushing the stratosphere with every puff.

I agree with my colleague that iJoy should have included a third “action” button to eliminate the long press/short press mechanics, even newcomers will find their way through the linear menu trees in no time. And once I locked in my settings – ranging from basic preheat adjustments to precise temperature control and TCR  levels – the Shogun simply did what it was told.

Though there should probably be more venting on the device, I should mention that the exterior stayed completely cool, even when pushing the mod to its upper limits. Again, no nonsense, just results. That’s something we can get behind.

Pros:

• • Simple design and great machining
  • Versatile tank system
  • Outstanding battery life and usability with UNIV chipset

Cons:

• • The tank (while good) isn’t a world-beater
  • The resin side panels aren’t replaceable
  • The display is a little tired for 2019

Spinfuel VAPE Recommendation and Score

On its own, the iJoy Shogun was a great buy. In this kit, it’s almost a must-buy (as if ANY vape mod or tank is an actual “must-buy”). The device is as powerful and reliable as any on the market. And the inclusion of a proven, cross-compatible tank system only makes this decision even easier. If you’re new to sub-ohm vaping, or just want a “do it all” kind of kit, there’s zero reason to miss out on this one, unless of course you dislike resin mods or need something with even more wattage, like the Uwell Valerian 300W Starter Kit, currently under review.