Estimates from the time put the number of vapers in the United States at around 9 million. Whether you were already one of them or just starting out, the mod you carry shapes the whole experience. These are the box mods we rated highest for 2018, each with the reason it made the list.
Compact: Vapour 2 TRINITY
Think about your daily routine before choosing a mod. A wallet-sized box can be awkward to manage, particularly for beginners and casual users. The TRINITY measures a little under 1 and a half inches across and 2 and a quarter inches in height, so it slips into a pocket or purse, and it still delivers up to 40W. It is the pick for anyone who vapes at lower power settings.
Showpiece: Asvape Michael VO200 TC Box Mod
For many vapers the hobby is as much about culture and lifestyle as anything else, and no mod reflects that more than the Michael VO200. It comes with either an artistic printed finish or stabilized wood. The wood version costs extra, and because grain varies naturally, no two are alike. Looks aside, output reaches 200W, which gives you plenty of control over how your e-juice tastes.
Quick to fire: Augvape v200
Plain on the outside, the v200 earns its place with what is inside. The firing mechanism is internal and hidden, the body is ergonomic and comfortable to hold, and there are three user modes. Switch to “V Mode” and it ramps to the full 200W faster than other 200W mods, which is handy when a break is short.
Big power: Wismec Reuleaux RX GEN3
Wismec’s Reuleaux line is a classic. Long-time vapers and anyone who watches vaping videos on YouTube will know the name, and each new release is awaited the way phone launches are. The RX GEN3 was the 2018 entry. It tops out at 300W, more than most mods here, without being bulky, and it keeps a sleek, sporty shape. The screen is large for the body size and simple to use, which makes this a reasonable step up from a starter device.
Battery life: Lost Vape Therion DNA75 TC Mod
Lost Vape’s DNA series has a strong track record. The Therion’s distinguishing feature is a parallel battery configuration. Since output is capped at 75W, that setup runs for a very long time between charges, even with sub-ohm tanks that drain other mods quickly. It is loaded with features aimed at experienced users and is not a beginner’s device.
Fast chipset: VooPoo TOO 180W TC
VooPoo’s patented GENE chipset is exclusive to its own mods. The chip is credited with fewer malfunctions and better efficiency, and firing takes as few as 10 milliseconds. The TOO pairs it with a higher wattage than earlier VooPoo models, so you get instant firing and heavy cloud production.
Customizable: YiHi SXmini G Class SX550J 200W
Reviews consistently mention the premium materials and finish. The control is a joystick, something you will not find elsewhere, and the settings can be tailored extensively. The learning curve is steep, so expect to spend time with it before you know your way around; we think the effort pays off.
Small footprint: Eleaf iStick Pico 75W
Eleaf has built a following among environmentally minded vapers. The iStick Pico is compact, keeps temperature and airflow control, and goes up to 75W for those who like an intense vape.
Pair it with the right juice
There were more mods to choose from in 2018 than ever before. Hardware is only half of it, though; the e-juice matters just as much. Our list of vapor flavors worth trying is a good next read.