I’ve started to notice a lack of originality in pod mod system design. Yeah, I get it — how many ways can you build a mousetrap? But when these designs start bordering on outright copying, it’s alarming. Take the Tesla Sliver pod mod system, which takes more than a few design cues from the Suorin Air. (reviewed here)

On merits of originality, the Teslacigs Sliver scores exactly zero points. Which is surprising, considering how Teslacigs makes some of the most original mods on the market. (Just check out the Punk for evidence!) But the Sliver doesn’t quite hit the mark, looks-wise.

 

However, in terms of performance, I’ll come right out and say it – the Sliver outperforms the Air, and countless other pod mod pretenders. I’ve used PLENTY of these little mods over the last six months, but there are precious few that even come close to the flavor intensity offered here. Delivered by pods that – gasp – last longer than a few days.

 

If this is the tradeoff for lackluster design, I’ll take it happily.

 

When first looking at the Sliver, you’ll wonder why (or how) anyone could vape effectively from something so thin. Yet, once you get over the feeling of playing the kazoo, you’ll quickly learn to appreciate the smooth airflow – snug enough to satisfy MTL enthusiasts, yet airy enough to keep lung hitters at bay – and sharp, potent draws.

You see, even with a small capacity battery and 4.2-volt maximum output, the Sliver offers fast-ramping, near-immediate draws of flavorful goodness. The draw-activated firing works almost immediately, filling your mouth with rapid bursts of flavorful vapor that’s both warm and abundant.

 

No, you won’t fog up an office with the vapor production, but I defy you to find a better delivery system for nuanced nic salt e-liquids.

 

(For the record, standard juices work fine in the Tesla Sliver pod, but I recommend maximizing the experience with brighter, less viscous e-liquids.)

 

My only slight concern with the Tesla Sliver is the lightweight aluminum frame. While it doesn’t seem like it would damage easily, there are several other pod mod competitors with much more durable chassis structures. In other words, it might survive a few drops, don’t go launching it from high elevations – it’s not going to make it.

 

And not for anything, but the credit card-slim structure means holding the Sliver is a little tenuous, since its light weight makes it easy to drop. And don’t even think about putting it in your back pocket, because it won’t last a few seconds before snapping.

But it’s all moot once you use these fantastic pods. On the surface, the Tesla Sliver pods are just more of the same – 2mL capacity, rubber gasket fill system, yadda yadda yadda. But these atomizers are designed to last, with durability and longevity that outperforms competitors by nearly double. That’s not a mistake – I got more than a week per pod, with countless refills happening along the way.

 

Though the kit only comes with one pod, Teslacigs sells them in packs of five at VERY reasonable prices, meaning a five pack could easily last a month or longer, depending on your vaping habits. Unlike my usual testing procedure, I went and got replacements to see if they all endured as well as the included pod. They did, and they proved themselves again and again.

 

Do I wish the Tesla Sliver had more battery capacity? Of course I do. Do I wish it was more durable and unique? Also, yes. But like we always say around here, performance is all that matters at the end of the day. And the Sliver performs as well as any pod mod we’ve seen. They’ve come in all shapes, sizes and price points, but there aren’t any that have surprised me as much as this one.

 

Pod mods aren’t for everyone, but this one is worth a look. Even with a few minor complaints, it’s on my shortlist for these types of vape devices, and there’s a good chance we’ll be discussing it again at year’s end.

 

Tesla Sliver Score: A

 

Tesla Sliver Pod Mod System Specs:

• Dimensions – 85mm by 42mm by 8mm
• 2mL Juice Capacity
• Integrated 350mAh Rechargeable Battery
• Input Voltage Range: 3.2-4.2V
• Lightweight Aluminum Construction
• Refillable Pod Cartridge – Plug Seal
• Replaceable Cartridge Design – Two-Piece
• 1.4ohm Coil Resistance
• Low Voltage Protection
• Short Circuit Protection
• Overcurrent Protection
• Over 10s Protection
• Micro USB Charging Port – 0.2A Charge
• Charge Time – 1.8hr
• Available in Black, Tiffany Blue, Green, Pink, Red

 

Tesla Sliver Pod Mod System Contents:

• 1x SLIVER System
• 1x SLIVER Pod Cartridge
• 1x Micro-USB Cable
• 1x Instructional Manual