The Innokin Kroma-Z POD/MOD - Review by Uncle

[Uncle]

Nice Review Uncle, as I understand it's not a good cloud chaser, is it good to quit smoking?

See:

The Innokin Kroma-Z POD/MOD - Review by Uncle

...and a few below that post, that mentions the .3Ω as good for cloud chasing. That and the 1.6Ω, 1.2Ω, and the .8Ω coils are all good for quitting smoking. If you smoke by DTL (direct to lung) use the .3 or .8 coil, if you smoke MTL (mouth to lung) then the 1.2, 1.6 are better. Sorry if you already knew that - but I see you're recently signed on :- )

^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ What "Kent C" said

I will also add that- IMHO - even if you use a 1.2/1.6 Z-Coil - if you leave the Airflow control fully open you will get more then enough vapor to create a "Cloud" . . . Just Sayin' . . .

BTW: As for the second part of your question, "is the Kroma-Z good to quit smoking" . . .

Again - IMHO - simply put, YES . . . It really just depends on what someone might be comfortable using at first . . . The Kroma-Z is a larger POD/MOD that is dual purpose for someone to use a convenient POD and/or have the ability to use a favorite tank (like the Zenith/Zlide) instead . . .

However, if someone wants to use a smaller more compact piece of equipment to use while making their "Transition into the World of Vaping" . . . AND - Also, would like something more in the direction of MTL - might I suggest the following, either the newer Sceptre or even the Endura M18 (which I will be doing a review of very soon).

Until then, here is my review of the Sceptre (both orginal version & new Super MTL POD) reviews:

The Innokin "Sceptre" MTL / DL POD MOD . . .Review

The New Sceptre Super MTL Pod - Review By Uncle​

OH Yea - What helped me to stop smoking/Dual User and become a full-time vapor are the Endura T18 or T22 . . . Matter of fact, I did a review on ECF for the ENDURA T18 & The Endura T22 (links provided) a while ago. Given their effectiveness and ease of use, especially as someone who is a MTL & devote "Tootle Puffer" - I still used both of them everyday.

Hope this information is helpful . . .


.

 

[gerrymi]

Uncle...great (and informative) Review!!!

Before the Dooming...(I mean Deeming)...I loaded up on Zenith tanks...(because of their Top-Filling and Z-Coils) ...AND...Sinuous P-80's...(because of their small size and Fire-Bar)...

Thus when I saw this Kroma-Z...with Z-Coils and Fire-Bar...I figured it would be right up my alley...

However...when I followed the links in your Review...I somehow stumbled across the Kroma-R...(which I had NOT heard about before)...with replaceable 18650 and Fire-Bar...so...again...Thanx!!!

Kroma-Z...$34.98...FastTech...

Vapecrawler

Kroma-R...$29.99...Sourcemore...

Vapecrawler

.

 

[Bobby1]

The Innokin Kroma-Z POD/MOD

​

First - The Disclaimer:
I am not a professional writer, nor professional reviewer of any products/product lines. Over the past few years - the only reviews or suggestions I have made were at the time which I believed I could provide information or add something to the conversation. What’s more important, anything I said was – or will say, is – “My” Personal Opinion . . .

BTW: As usual when testing any vaping equipment I use my ADV of Unflavored 50/50 24 NIC w/Koolada (sometimes 1-2 Drops of “Menthol Crystal Liquid) added to provide a "Cooling" Menthol effect. Also, I evaluated any equipment based on “My” experiences after using numerous different products for the past 9 years, first as a dual user then becoming a full-time vapor 2 years ago.

By now people know, I do not just jump on a product to just write a review without taking the time to actually test it fully . . . So - For anyone interested in a more formal description and specifications about this product should check these links about the Innokin Kroma-Z:

Kroma Z – A Better Vape Experience

Innokin Kroma-Z – Next Gen FlavourZ - True MTL, True RDL​

This is not a “normal” review” as some of you have read before, however if you want to know what it is to experience this product from a personal perspective – "Mine" - then we’re good.

Even with that being said, let’s start at the beginning of this adventure and escapade with The Innokin Kroma-Z POD/MOD . . .

Okay over a month ago, after UPS decided to take the Kroma-Z on a sightseeing trip of my neighborhood for the weekend and another day at their facility, The Kroma-Z finally arrived only 3 days later than expected at my apartment on November 16th, 2020.

At first look, when the Kroma-Z arrived I was a little concerned that something had happened to it or I got a counterfeit of some short, simply because the packaging was not what I was normally use to getting from Innokin. The quality of the box holding the Kroma-Z was out of thin cardboard and only had 2 small paper circles holding the "Box" together. Also the extras were in paper envelopes. So I did some research and found out that what I received was Innokin's new 100% Recycling packaging, no more plastic wrapped box nor cellophane wrapped coils/extras. Surely, a very good move for the environment. AND - Once I figured out how to open the box without destroying it (just in case I needed to send it back or provide the verification number) I was very pleased to see it was definitely the Kroma-Z from Innokin. Everything in the box was intact for the Kroma-Z. Also, got a 510 Adapter for the Kroma-Z to replace the POD so you can use a traditional tank.

First impression:

Once I got the box opened and saw what was inside I could automatically tell the Kroma-Z is without-a-doubt an "Innokin" product (not a want-ta-be) and even looks similar to its predecessor the Kroma/Kroma-A/Kroma-R. However there are a few differences with the Kroma-Z.

The Kroma-Z – IMHO - itself is well made and very sturdy. The POD, which holds 4.5 ml of e-liquid is made of a smokey plastic that sits atop the Kroma-Z smoothly and blends into the side of the base. THANKFULLY - Strong magnets hold the pod in place atop the base. Even tipping over or dropping the Kroma-Z (say 2 feet onto desk top) the POD is held tightly and does not dislodge in anyway (BTW: Doesn’t mean it won’t suffer any damage or cracking if miss used). Also the POD is very easy to fill and change coils or modify with the enclosed Airflow Ring. As for the Drip Tip on the POD, Thankfully, is what I call a standard 510 size for MTL vaping and feels quite comfortable.

The Kroma-Z is slightly taller & wider than previous Kroma's, but - IMHO - just as sleek & comfortable - if not more so, especially given the smooth rubberized feel and Carbon textured webbing.

​

The Kroma-Z actually "fills" the palm of my hand closed (not Small – nor Large for a man), leaving the POD sitting right above the grip of my hand, with very easy access to the "Fire-Bar" with either the thumb/index finger and all the adjustable controls (+ & - w/the ring finger/pinky) too, including the airflow control and e-liquid "fill-hole" flap (w/Thumb).


And while the Kroma-Z maybe very similar to its predecessors - As someone who honestly prefers just the very basics in operations - KISS & Vape, I learned rather quickly the operation of this Kroma is somewhat different and there is a NEED (at least for me) to read the manual/instructions, especially to get familiarized with the additional parts, operation and the menu functions too (Puff counter, oHms', Volts, Lock-out, Cut-off Time, etc.).


Now, as for an actual test run using the Kroma-Z POD/MOD and putting it through its paces . . .

The 4.5 ml POD comes with 0.8 ohm coil preinstalled and the MTL Drip tip. So all you have to do is prim the coil, fill the tank, power on w/3 clicks (battery fully charged) and vape. However - STOP and LOOK . . . the Wattage was preset at 30 Watts . . . NOT HAPPENING ! ! !

It should be noted, that the Kroma-Z, will predetermine the wattage based on what ohm coils - be it in the POD/Tank that you are using . . . So double check, before vaping . . . Just Sayin' . . .

I was more then willing to try using a sub-ohm coil again, but HECK*NO, not at that wattage. So I reset the wattage down to what I think is a more reasonable wattage for me to start with - 10 Watts. AND - Since I am a Tootle Puffer, I had the airflow almost closed off.

Very interesting results, not quite what I was expecting. The first draw was quite airy and the "Taste" and/or feeling of "Coolness" I normally get from my ADV was missing. Kept at for an awhile readjusting the Airflow and wattage slightly. Finally, if I remembered correctly, lower ohm coils need higher wattage to perform at their best. As a result I kept increasing the Wattage, finally to what I was willing to have it set at – at the most - 25 Watts. Kept at it, but after a week of trying, changing the wattage and using different mixtures of a stronger ADV, it was still a no go for "Me", no "Taste" of "Coolness" and to much of an airy vapor draw (BTW: A lot of vapor) no matter what setting).

(Before continuing - Caveat: READ Instructions - How to remove POD ! ! ! DO NOT Force in the wrong direction or pull on the Fill hole rubber stopper . . . And make sure you reset it properly . . . Just Sayin' . . . )

Modifications were in order, thankfully Innokin supplied another MTL Air flow ring (with only one hole), so after exchanging the airflow ring on the POD – I started again at the beginning. It was helpful, just not there yet. Came time to change the coil - first using a 1.2 ohm Z-Coil and then a 1.6 ohm Z-coil instead

The results:

WOW - What a difference. It took a few days, but finally hit the mark with the 1.6 ohm Z-Coil, MTL, Airflow ring with one hole, and the wattage set between 10 - 14 Watts (at the most for me) depending on the ADV mix I'm using and personal mood. Of course - YMMV, but it's working for "Me" - It seems that all it took was adjusting the Kroma-Z setting to a preferred wattage/coil/airflow to hit that "Sweet Spot" again . . .

So I’ve been using the Kroma-Z Pod for a few extra weeks now to make sure it was not just a fluke. Nope, not a fluke, no problems – works very well, even using the 510 Adapter of the Kroma-Z to make it more like a typical MOD and using a 510 style tank (used both the Zenith/Zlide with 1.2 /1.6 Z- Coils).

Even took the Kroma-Z w/ a full POD, the 510 Adapter and a Tank out and about a few times. BTW: I found it much easier to have it setup with the adapter & tank, and then changed out to the POD later.

​

Which for someone that likes to change it up with different flavors frequently while out and about makes this POD/MOD an even better choice to have in your arsenal, especially if you only want to take just one mod out with you for the day. The Kroma-Z is shirt pocket friendly with either the POD or a Tank. Although. I would suggest strongly not to carry it in your pants pocket with any other items, especially metallic items – like Keys/Coins.

And with the 3000 mAh internal battery, I had no need to keep recharging it every day – after 3-4 days still was good. When the battery icon showed half a charge left, I did finally recharge the battery –– it only took about a half-hour to 45 mins, at the most, to recharge the battery to full.

Overall – talk about mixing it up . . .

It should be note here that, as someone who had on occasion tried a POD, really didn't like them and I have never considered myself a POD person – didn’t use them since I preferred using a Mod w/ Tank. That is until I tried the Innokin Sceptre and now the Kroma-Z POD/MOD. Today - I am not only a “TOOTLE PUFFER” – I’m a "POD Vapor".

PROS:

* 4.5ml POD – easy fill (however for some will need a "backlight")
* 510 Adapter to use your favorite Tank
* Uses any ohm Z-Coil you prefer
* MTL Airflow Adapter ring
* Quality - Well made, light, and with really good “Hand Feel” POD or MOD
* Easy Peasy - Change out from POD to MOD and back again to POD

CONS: (Or more of a suggestion)
* Innokin should make a Kroma- RZ . . . Replace battery / POD / MOD.
* POD a little to dark for some people with bad eyesight, unless you hold it up to a light source.
* Althoug much better for the environment - I miss the old packaging . . .
(Don't worry I'll get over it . . . )

More importantly, after using the Kroma-Z POD MOD for over a month now – I couldn't be more pleased. I think this is a great option for those who prefer PODs, but also want the choice to use a MOD when the time calls for it AND – For those who prefer a MOD, but sometimes want to use a POD instead.

IMHO - Innokin has done it again ! ! ! ! The Kroma- Z get’s Uncle’s stamp of approval and is another Innokin product that I whole heartily recommend to all Vapors alike . . .


( Okay Now – Before anyone makes any comments. . . Once again, it will sometimes take “Me” quite awhile to write up and edit a review; so if “You” find any mistakes in grammar, punctuation, or spelling – get over it, I’m not a professional writer . . . Just Sayin’ . . . Not only that, I take and create all the images I use in these reviews, so there's that too . . . ) )


BTW: Keep your eyes out for the next Review coming soon about the Customer suggested new & revised - Innokin’s Scepter MTL . . .



.

Nice review man. Do you think any of these coils can consistently withstand 70 VG juice?

 

[Katya]

Great review, as always, and I agree with you--great little device. I love mine, as well, and I've never been a pod enthusiast--until I met the Sceptre and the Kroma-Z.

However, I need to point something out that struck me as odd:

The 4.5 ml POD comes with 0.8 ohm coil preinstalled and the MTL Drip tip. So all you have to do is prim the coil, fill the tank, power on w/3 clicks (battery fully charged) and vape. However - STOP and LOOK . . . the Wattage was preset at 30 Watts . . . NOT HAPPENING ! ! !

It should be noted, that the Kroma-Z, will predetermine the wattage based on what ohm coils - be it in the POD/Tank that you are using . . . So double check, before vaping . . . Just Sayin' . . .

I was more then willing to try using a sub-ohm coil again, but HECK*NO, not at that wattage. So I reset the wattage down to what I think is a more reasonable wattage for me to start with - 10 Watts. AND - Since I am a Tootle Puffer, I had the airflow almost closed off.

Very interesting results, not quite what I was expecting. The first draw was quite airy and the "Taste" and/or feeling of "Coolness" I normally get from my ADV was missing. Kept at for an awhile readjusting the Airflow and wattage slightly. Finally, if I remembered correctly, lower ohm coils need higher wattage to perform at their best. As a result I kept increasing the Wattage, finally to what I was willing to have it set at – at the most - 25 Watts. Kept at it, but after a week of trying, changing the wattage and using different mixtures of a stronger ADV, it was still a no go for "Me", no "Taste" of "Coolness" and to much of an airy vapor draw (BTW: A lot of vapor) no matter what setting).

Are you sure you had a .8Ω coil preinstalled in your device? I did, and the wattage that popped on the screen read 16W, which is in the Innokin recommended range for that coil (14-17W). I prefer the .8Ω coils at 14W or even lower, so that annoyed me a bit, but I understand that it's a safety feature for new vapers. Still, why 16W? Seems a bit arbitrary. Why not start at the lowest recommended wattage setting if it's a safety feature.

Anyway, the 30W you saw on your screen is the lowest manufacturer's recommended wattage for .3Ω coil (30-40W). So here they chose the lowest, and not the middle recommended setting--a bit inconsistent, Innokin. If it indeed was a .3Ω coil. If it wasn't, and you really had a .8Ω coil preinstalled, then there's something wrong with your Kroma-Z.

Just Sayin'...

 

[Katya]

The pod capacity, the battery size and the fire bar are all excellent and make it superior (to me) to the Scepter.

Ahh, but the Sceptre travels better. I always have one in my purse, and another one in my pocket (most of the time). And it never leaks. Kroma-Z is too big to qualify as a true pod mod, but, of course, it depends on one's definition of a pod mod. It's all fluent.

 

[Katya]

Nice Review Uncle, as I understand it's not a good cloud chaser, is it good to quit smoking?

I'm not Uncle, of course, there's only ONE @Uncle .! But yes, I would highly recommend it to someone trying to quit smoking. It's a pleasure to use, very easy, Z coils are fantastic and last a long time, what's not to like? If you prefer something smaller, the Sceptre is wonderful and even more user (beginner) friendly.

 

[Kent C]

Nice review man. Do you think any of these coils can consistently withstand 70 VG juice?

I use "aqueous glycerin" (an old Ecopure formula adopted by Decadent Vapours - my favorite juice vendor) ... which is 100% VG diluted with distilled water at a 83:17 VG/water ratio. This greatly saves on coils making the VG less viscous, close to the viscosity of PG, and doesn't reduce the vapor you get with VG.

And these coils handle it better than most. I'm getting months worth of use on most light colored flavors and a few months on darker flavors as well. I DIY my juice and use a bit less flavoring with my dark flavors - Habana Reserve (tobacco-like) and Espresso. As you may know, the darker flavors have more particulates that also affect coils.

 

[Uncle]

Great review,

Thank You

as always, and I agree with you--great little device. I love mine, as well, and I've never been a pod enthusiast--until I met the Sceptre and the Kroma-Z.

SO AGREE - Neither was I ever interested in a POD . . . However, I can't say enough good things about the Sceptre & Kroma-Z . . . Been using mine since the day I got them and all the other MOD's I have are getting very jealous, especially the Innokin Endura T18/T22 that I was using everyday as my go to going out and about MODs. . . ​

However, I need to point something out that struck me as odd:
Are you sure you had a .8Ω coil preinstalled in your device?

Yep - Even double checked, especially since the it showed 30W on the screen . . . Don't really know why, but it did start at 30W and is also why I mentioned it in the review so people would double check the wattage before using also . . . ​

I did, and the wattage that popped on the screen read 16W, which is in the Innokin recommended range for that coil (14-17W). I prefer the .8Ω coils at 14W or even lower, so that annoyed me a bit, but I understand that it's a safety feature for new vapers. Still, why 16W? Seems a bit arbitrary. Why not start at the lowest recommended wattage setting if it's a safety feature.

Agreed - Similar to you, while I do prefer 1.2 oHm (or higher) coil anywhere from 10 - 14 Watts normally - I can unerstand having a MOD's wattage preset . . . Much better to be safe then sorry - particularly if a "Newbie" picked one up without knowing what to really do to start off with . . . ​

Anyway, the 30W you saw on your screen is the lowest manufacturer's recommended wattage for .3Ω coil (30-40W). So here they chose the lowest, and not the middle recommended setting--a bit inconsistent, Innokin. If it indeed was a .3Ω coil. If it wasn't, and you really had a .8Ω coil preinstalled, then there's something wrong with your Kroma-Z.

Just Sayin'...

No argument from me about the setting for other coils . . . AND - You could be absolutely correct, however no it was not a .03 oHm coil, but the .08 oHm coil that was preinstalled . . . The really good thing is that I haven't had any other problems withe the Wattage settings since then . . . Just Sayin' . . . ​

.

 

[Uncle]

I'm not Uncle, of course, there's only ONE @Uncle .! But yes, I would highly recommend it to someone trying to quit smoking. It's a pleasure to use, very easy, Z coils are fantastic and last a long time, what's not to like? If you prefer something smaller, the Sceptre is wonderful and even more user (beginner) friendly.

AH - No "You" are not "Uncle" (Me), however I really do appreciate Ya' knowing what I would have said . . .

It's almost like you were in "My" Head and took the words right out of my mouth . . .



.

 

[Bobby1]

AH - No "You" are not "Uncle" (Me), however I really do appreciate Ya' knowing what I would have said . . .

It's almost like you were in "My" Head and took the words right out of my mouth . . .



.

Soo back to my question?

 

[Uncle]

Soo back to my question?

Nice review man. Do you think any of these coils can consistently withstand 70 VG juice?

I'll assume it is this - QUESTION ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^


The simple answer is - IMHO - YES ! ! !


However, I would also note a more experienced person @Kent C who is more familiar - then I am - with using 70VG . . . He answered your question above and re-quoted here:

I use "aqueous glycerin" (an old Ecopure formula adopted by Decadent Vapours - my favorite juice vendor) ... which is 100% VG diluted with distilled water at a 73:17 VG/water ratio. This greatly saves on coils making the VG less viscous, close to the viscosity of PG, and doesn't reduce the vapor you get with VG.

And these coils handle it better than most. I'm getting months worth of use on most light colored flavors and a few months on darker flavors as well. I DIY my juice and use a bit less flavoring with my dark flavors - Habana Reserve (tobacco-like) and Espresso. As you may know, the darker flavors have more particulates that also affect coils.

.

 

[Katya]

Yep - Even double checked, especially since the it showed 30W on the screen . . . Don't really know why, but it did start at 30W and is also why I mentioned it in the review so people would double check the wattage before using also . . .

Some safety feature.

If I were Uncle, I'd contact Innokin and complain. If only to let them know that there is a problem, Houston.

 

[Kent C]

Some safety feature.

If I were Uncle, I'd contact Innokin and complain. If only to let them know that there is a problem, Houston.

Agree... but from the Kroma Z innokin site:

Smart Coil ID and Wattage Select
The Kroma-Z intelligently identifies the coil’s resistance and automatically suggests a suitable wattage level.

Showing 18W in the picture accompanying. One of my kroma z's came with the 0.3 coil installed and also showed 30W. Another with the 0.8 coil showing 18W on startup. Of course, I replaced them with a 1.6 and it read 10W, iirc.

 

[Katya]

Agree... but from the Kroma Z innokin site:

Smart Coil ID and Wattage Select
The Kroma-Z intelligently identifies the coil’s resistance and automatically suggests a suitable wattage level.

Showing 18W in the picture accompanying. One of my kroma z's came with the 0.3 coil installed and also showed 30W. Another with the 0.8 coil showing 18W on startup. Of course, I replaced them with a 1.6 and it read 10W, iirc.

Interesting, 18 watts is also outside the recommended range for that coil, but only by 1 watt, not 12. Weird, I get 16W on startup with .8Ω coil. Haven't tried other coils yet. I prefer 1.6Ω Z coils, and 10 Watts is within the recommended range. Apparently that smart coil ID ain't all that smart, after all.

Oh well.

 

[Harplayr]

I worry that the fill port being a pressure fit flap might accidentally open in my pocket. Has anyone had any problems with the fill flap?

I'm a MTL flavor chaser. I was also wondering with so many coils to choose from, which coil is best for low wattage MTL vaping flavor.

 

[Katya]

I worry that the fill port being a pressure fit flap might accidentally open in my pocket. Has anyone had any problems with the fill flap?

No problems so far. But I just got my Kroma-Z, and I don't carry it in my pocket, so I can't be sure.

I'm a MTL flavor chaser. I was also wondering with so many coils to choose from, which coil is best for low wattage MTL vaping flavor.

I like the 1.6Ω coil very much.

 

[Uncle]

I worry that the fill port being a pressure fit flap might accidentally open in my pocket. Has anyone had any problems with the fill flap?

No - I haven't had any problems yet, not even when i carry a Phone & Sceptre in the same shirt pocket - also carried it in my pants pocket without any problem yet either . . . Just Sayin' . . .

I'm a MTL flavor chaser. I was also wondering with so many coils to choose from, which coil is best for low wattage MTL vaping flavor.

First, I use Unflavored Nic w/ Koolada and really like the "kooling" effect I get - I use both 1.2 oHm & 1.6 oHm Z-Coils set anywhere from 10 - 14 Watts and just recently start using as low as 7.5 Watts too . . . Of course - YMMV . . . Just Sayin' . . .

.

 

[Harplayr]

No - I haven't had any problems yet, not even when i carry a Phone & Sceptre in the same shirt pocket - also carried it in my pants pocket without any problem yet either . . . Just Sayin' . . .

First, I use Unflavored Nic w/ Koolada and really like the "kooling" effect I get - I use both 1.2 oHm & 1.6 oHm Z-Coils set anywhere from 10 - 14 Watts and just recently start using as low as 7.5 Watts too . . . Of course - YMMV . . . Just Sayin' . . .

.

Thanks. I always carry my mods in my pants pocket, and have had a couple of tanks that had fill ports that weren't very secure. After a couple of pockets filled with juice, it's something I worry about.

I like everything else I've read on this pod, so I may give it a try.

 

[Uncle]

Thanks. I always carry my mods in my pants pocket, and have had a couple of tanks that had fill ports that weren't very secure. After a couple of pockets filled with juice, it's something I worry about.

I like everything else I've read on this pod, so I may give it a try.

AH - There is something I guess i should clarify, when I mentioned carrying in pants pocket - the MOD was shut off (as any MODD/POD should be) and nothing else was in the pocket - not even any coins . . . Don't Want Any "HOT POCKETS" - At least not from a MOD . . . Just Sayin' . . .


.

 

[Katya]

Thanks. I always carry my mods in my pants pocket, and have had a couple of tanks that had fill ports that weren't very secure. After a couple of pockets filled with juice, it's something I worry about.

I like everything else I've read on this pod, so I may give it a try.

My apologies to @Uncle for briefly veering off topic.

If you're looking for a pocket pod mod that never leaks and comes with a well-protected fill port, may I suggest Innokin Sceptre? It's smaller, flatter, lighter, and, IMO, as good as Kroma-Z. Sceptre is my out-and-about pod mod and I always have one in my purse and/or my pocket. I love 1.2 and .65Ω coils for MTL vaping. Innokin Store has USS25 (25% off) coupon code now.

Sceptre Pod System Kit

The Innokin "Sceptre" MTL / DL POD MOD . . .Review