Alternatives to the Eleaf istick mini (UK)?

[jordan94]

Hi all,

I currently vape an eleaf istick mini, and I have repeatedly encountered problems with the battery and its ability to take a charge. I couldn't even count the number of istick minis I have been through. I am not particularly rough with the battery or USB cable when I'm charging it, but I do tend to vape a lot throughout the day. I was wondering if there are any alternatives that would suit my needs? Basically, what I am looking for is a battery with an adjustable voltage, a robust and secure charging port (this is where I have encountered the problems), a reasonable price point and something that is relatively small and discreet. The main suppliers I would purchase e-cigarette products of would be KIX or Ziggicig, so if you guys know of any good batteries stocked in those shops, that would be amazing!

I would really appreciate your suggestions as although I have been vaping for 2 years, I am not so clued in on the intricacies of the market! Thank you!

 

[Racehorse]

I agree about the Eleaf istick. The rattling buttons etc. were just a huge turnoff for me (i.e cheap)

1) I will suggest the Joyetech VTC Mini.....several versions out now, takes separate batteries that you can charge on a charger. Very popular and you can put anything you want on top.

2) People also like the Pico.

3) if you want something TOTALLY dependable, to add to your stash, and don't need subohm, pick up a provari 2.5 on special for $35. or so at Provape.. Get the mini w/extension then you can use both 18350 and 18500 batts.......will last you many, many years and is very safe and USA made, utterly dependable vape to have around! it's not that "tiny" and a little heavy at times but you can't go wrong for that price, these used to cost over $150 and were worth it at that price too

PS there really aren't any "robust" usb charging ports, the nature of them is that they either push in and collapse, etc. which is why you should charge your batts on a good charger and get replaceable batts.

 

[harwibo]

hello, i used eleaf i stick too. and no problem with my battery (3200 maH)

 

[Shirtbloke]

Are you vaping while the Istick is plugged in and recharging? I used to do that all the time I was in front of my computer and I busted a whole bunch of USB leads - they just don't seem to be built for the amount of twisting and bending they get while doing that. I stopped doing it and my current USB lead has lasted for ages.

 

[jordan94]

Are you vaping while the Istick is plugged in and recharging? I used to do that all the time I was in front of my computer and I busted a whole bunch of USB leads - they just don't seem to be built for the amount of twisting and bending they get while doing that. I stopped doing it and my current USB lead has lasted for ages.

Yeah I do hahaha, I never even thought about that as I thought the purpose of the charging port was that so you could vape whilst your battery is on charge, as opposed to the older screw on type chargers! Thanks for the heads up!

 

[Continuity]

Even if it 'works' (kindof) it's really not advised to use your mod as a 'pasthrough' like that. It's not really a good thing to use the mod's on-board charging circuit (maybe only occasionally in a pinch, in the car or a one-off at the office or similar), and that's why it's always advised to use a dedicated charger - they are very affordable these days, too.

 

[jordan94]

I agree about the Eleaf istick. The rattling buttons etc. were just a huge turnoff for me (i.e cheap)

1) I will suggest the Joyetech VTC Mini.....several versions out now, takes separate batteries that you can charge on a charger. Very popular and you can put anything you want on top.

2) People also like the Pico.

3) if you want something TOTALLY dependable, to add to your stash, and don't need subohm, pick up a provari 2.5 on special for $35. or so at Provape.. Get the mini w/extension then you can use both 18350 and 18500 batts.......will last you many, many years and is very safe and USA made, utterly dependable vape to have around! it's not that "tiny" and a little heavy at times but you can't go wrong for that price, these used to cost over $150 and were worth it at that price too

PS there really aren't any "robust" usb charging ports, the nature of them is that they either push in and collapse, etc. which is why you should charge your batts on a good charger and get replaceable batts.

Thank you for the suggestions! I ended up settling on the Joyetech eGo AIO in the end. Although it's just a simple pen style it does give me a good hit, and I like the fact that it's leak proof and seems to be of a decently robust build too - totally different to the fragile nature of the Eleafs (I totally hear ya on the rattling buttons)! Only cost me £25 as well, and since I like to vape on the go it just seems like a great option. Only complaint I have is that it's quite noisy when the fire button is pressed, but overall for £25 I think I've got a lot for my money! Will definitely not be purchasing an Eleaf again, that's for sure!

 

[BethieW]

hello, i used eleaf i stick too. and no problem with my battery (3200 maH)

I use this one, too and have had zero problems.

 

[BrotherBob]

I really like my Istick 40w TC. Been using it for about a year and still going strong.

 

[gandymarsh]

I own 4 iStick 20w and 2 iStick 30w. Some of the 20w are nearly 2 years old. I will admit though, that I reinforced the USB ports with epoxy after I heard that some were breaking off. It's easy enough to do. Just take the bottom plate off with a torx(star) screwdriver, dab some epoxy around the outside of the port and put the bottom plate back on. You can also use hot glue.