SNOWWOLF MINI 100W TC STARTER KIT REVIEW

Sigelei SnowWolf Mini 100 – Vape companies need to set some rules about naming. Because right now, there’s no standard to what qualifies as a “Mini,” a “Baby” or a “Pro.”  So companies are just using these terms interchangeably, with no comparative basis for why they do it. Take, for example, the Sigelei SnowWolf Mini, a 100-watt mod – a bulky, powerful, STRONG vape mod that doesn’t feel “mini” in any sense of the word.

Taking a healthy dose of design inspiration from its big brother, the SnowWolf MFENG (review here), the Mini 100 isn’t subtle in any sense of the word. My gold/rainbow-hued chrome test model catches the light in countless ways – I’ve never quite understood the appeal of having a vape mod looks like an oil stain in direct sunlight, but there’s no accounting for taste.

On top of the rainbow swirls, there’s also my personal favorite aspect of any recent SnowWolf mod – the tremendous, 3D chromed-out wolf slapped on the back of the device. I’m all for branding, but when 80% of the rear panel is covered in a gaudy, oversized wolf head, you have to wonder if it’s in the best interest of the user.

Which is a shame, because the rest of the SnowWolf Mini 100 is really ergonomic. The beveled edges of the zinc alloy frame, and the smooth-textured side panels make it easy to forget that this mod is nearly 31mm wide, and heavy as hell. It sits really well in the hand, and the heft was reassuring. If only there was a way to remove that stupid wolf without mangling the rear of the mod.

Unlike the MFENG, the Mini 100 is a single 20700 device (18650 with included adapter), with a top-loading battery compartment. Normally, this wouldn’t be a problem. But, with a 31mm width, users might be tempted to use larger tanks and drippers, but the screw-on battery cap limits which tanks will fit comfortably.

(The companion WOLF Mini sub-ohm tank is a suitable match, but we’ll get to that in a bit.)

Another reason I hate using the term “Mini” to describe certain vape mods is because it implies reduced features. And nothing could be further from the truth when it comes to the SnowWolf Mini 100. Not only does this “miniature” device easily hit 100 watts (remember when no one could imagine going over 60?) but also features a comprehensive temperature control suite, TCR presets, three distinct preheat settings, and even a DIY mode for serious tinkerers.

In other words, the SnowWolf Mini 100 is probably more device than any average vaper needs. Four years ago, it would have represented the absolute pinnacle of vaping technology. But today it’s a “mini?” Not even close.

The 510 connection – a feature I don’t normally spend much time discussing – is noteworthy here. I have seen a lot of good ones over the years, but none that ever held my array of tanks like a vise grip. There was absolutely zero wiggle and play to be found, which I appreciate more than words can say.

The display is another highlight. While the full-color TFT screen might not be the sharpest, prettiest one around, it’s much nicer than other recent SnowWolf displays, and complements the overall look really well. Given the size of the screen, and the relative depth of the menu system, perhaps a touchscreen would have made more sense. But then again, touchscreens are usually more “miss” than “hit” so I’ll assume Sigelei knew what they were doing.

Finally, there’s the 25mm WOLF sub-ohm tank, which looks an AWFUL lot like a re-skinned version of the Sigelei Sobra tank, but we’re not going to knock them for renaming their own products. Overall, the tank does its job well, but unremarkably. Both the coils – the standard WF Mini and WF-H Mini – offer near identical performance, eliminating the need for different names and specs. They’re fine, but don’t expect to throw out those SMOK mesh coils anytime soon.

I’m going to keep this short and sweet, because most of these thoughts have already been shared above. The Sigelei SnowWolf Mini 100 is a high-performing vape mod that gives you a lot of bang for the buck. It’s durable, powerful and definitely unique. And the battery life is pretty damn good for a single-20700/18650 device – not world-beating, but better than average, for sure.

If only the damn thing was more comfortable. 75% of the Mini 100 is ergonomic, contoured and a delight to operate. 25% of the Mini 100 is a fake chrome wolf.

I know I’ve harped on this numerous times over the last year, but I simply can’t get past the additional of a design element that makes a mod harder to operate. The wolf either digs into your palm, or it makes it harder to reach the fire and operation keys with one hand. It’s annoying, uncomfortable, and one of the only real black marks on a device that impressed me more often than not.

If you want a vape mod that’s compact, but not necessarily small, with enough power and features to function as your daily driver, you should consider the SnowWolf Mini 100. Sigelei has managed to pack a lot of features and performance into a tight space, and for that, they should be commended. Even moreso for doing it at this price point.

There’s just one key design element that would dramatically improve the entire SnowWolf experience… (comfort) and I really hope the person responsible is reading this right now. Because that score I’ve given this SnowWolf would be higher without it.