SMOK SLM 16W Ultra-Portable Pod Kit Review

SMOK SLM Intro and Specs

Well, it’s finally happened, vapers. We’ve come full circle. A mere 11 years after e-cigarettes first hit the public consciousness, SMOK has taken the pod mod phenomenon back to its roots, delivering the “cig-a-like-like” SMOK SLM pod system to the masses. And unsurprisingly, not much has changed.

The SLM sports a size-appropriate 250mAh, USB-rechargeable battery, 16-watt maximum output, 0.8mL juice capacity, LED light indicator, and zero additional bells and whistles. While the translucent mouthpiece/pod encasement isn’t QUITE like those original Boge cartos we loved so much, the snug draw is definitely a reminder of how different things have become.

Sure, the coil and pod system is more advanced than the cartomizers of old. And there’s definitely more-reliable technology under the hood. But the entire experience – from the puff-activated draw, to the MTL focus, to the overall look and feel, the SLM is a throwback to simpler times.

Though I’ve heard different accounts throughout the vape-writer-o-sphere (it’s a thing, look it up) the SMOK SLM is most like a “100” sized cig-a-like, with a SLIGHLY girthier diameter than you remember. But, by and large, it’s a cig-a-like, 2019 style…

And to be completely honest, this is a good thing for some of us. Considering even pod systems are starting the “one-upsmanship” cycle all over again, adding more capacity and even touchscreens (!), a commitment to a draw-activated, simplistic e-cig is a welcome nod to those who just want to vape and move on with their day.

Because of the form factor, there isn’t much else to describe. The LED indicator works well to give battery life warnings, as well as any errors or problems that might be affecting your vape. Fortunately, I didn’t experience any during my testing period.

Standout Features of the SMOK SLM 16W Pod Kit

Vapor! When SMOK named these MTL pods “Thick Stick Vapor” I thought it was a mashup of bad branding and worse translation. But you know what? It’s a spot-on description. Even though the 250mAh cell shouldn’t be this impressive, this 16-watt portable powerhouse puts out a VERY respectable cloud, to go along with some strong flavor, to boot. It’s not clear what resistance these coils were, but for a dedicated MTL device, it’s impressive. It’s not sub-ohm-level output, but considering the size, who really cares?

While I wish each pod lasted a little longer between fills, I was pleasantly surprised by the durability of the two included cartridges. Using a variety of salt nic juices, I put these pods through the rigors and they just kept going. Only this morning did they tap out, earning a well-deserved honorable discharge.

Just know, the system and refill packs (of 5 pods) are about as cost-effective as anything in vaping today, so puff away – you’re getting a deal.

I should also mention the rapid-fire charging. Sure, it’s only a 250mAh battery, but you can get the SLM from zero to full in under 35 minutes, putting you right back in the game.

Using the SMOK SLM 16W Ultra Portable Pod Kit

I may have touched on it already, but in the SLM, SMOK has created a potent little device that delivers hard-hitting nic salt satisfaction in a cig-a-like format. And for some – especially experienced vapers – that might be a welcome change, or a reversion to something better left in the past.

At first, I enjoyed the draw-activated experience (even if my finger instinctively searched for a “manual e-cig” button). The snug, but appropriate airflow gave me a slow, progressively warmer draw each time, until the battery was ready to be charged. Like all pods and e-cigs, the entire unit can get a little warmer with heavy use, and the 8-second cutoff is more like six. But overall, it was a flavorful, satisfying experience.

Did I wish there were some controllable elements? Maybe, but that’s probably the sub-ohm fiend talking. In terms of potent nicotine delivery with no fuss, this is what the vape doctor ordered.

Pros:

– Throwback, compact design

– Strong flavor and vapor production

– Long-lasting pod cartridges

Cons:

– No adjustments

– Shorter cut-off time than advertised

– Maybe it’s time to leave the past in the past?

Spinfuel VAPE Recommendation

For newcomers, the SLM makes a lot of sense – just like e-cigs did a decade ago. It’s not the best pod system we’ve used, but for the price and convenience, it’s not far off, either. And if you’re looking for an ultra-portable device for those times your regular rig isn’t available, the SLM might just surprise you, too. Pick one up!