Being a Pax Labs customer for the last decade, I often thought what if they actually introduced a device with a hybrid heating system to kill the metallic taste? What seemed like a never-filling desire finally got translated into a feature. The Pax Flow Vaporizer is one of the most recent products introduced by Pax Labs. It has hybrid technology along with a USB-C charging port.
Despite these solid improvements, we must compare it with an older model to see if the overall value proportion has enhanced or diminished. This thought made me compare it with the loved Pax Plus Vaporizer that anchored the ship with its simple yet efficient performance. The comparison between Pax Plus and Pax Flow is a clash of generations, where the manufacturer has decided to adapt to the changing needs of smokers.
Like most Pax Labs devices, the Pax Plus and Pax Flow Vaporizers are made of aluminum alloy and contain a stainless steel chamber for faster heating. The mouthpieces are made of medically graded silicone that not only keeps you safe but also prevents you from burns by keeping it insulated. The edges are rounded to keep it smooth while holding.
The bodies of both devices are perfectly compact to let you carry them inside your pocket. While you can conceal these 4-inch devices inside your hand, the Pax Plus Vaporizer is definitely more compact. It only weighs 95 grams when compared to the 135-gram Pax Flow Vaporizer. If we consider the overall design, the side-mounted chamber adds more value to your experience as it is easier to load and clean.
Verdict
The overall build does not set the devices apart. However, the side-mounted design of the Pax Flow allows more access for cleaning and loading. It feels more unique, but the components are heavier than the Pax Plus.
Vapor Quality
The Pax Plus Vaporizer has an isolated vapor path that prevents deterioration in the vapor quality. The reliance on conduction serves as one of the biggest reasons why this device carries a metallic taste (like burnt popcorn). The clouds are thicker and feel smoother when you vape at lower temperature settings. However, a more restricted airflow means that the cooling is compromised.
The Pax Flow Vaporizer is different. It has a hybrid heating element that retains the purity and vapor quality. This device nullifies the metallic taste like any premium vaping product on the market. The vapor path is isolated to maintain the desired temperature. The airflow is fluent, so the draws will feel lighter than its contemporary. Greater airflow aids in cooling and reducing the harshness, regardless of the temperature selected.
Verdict
The Pax Flow is a clear winner due to its hybrid heating system. The improved airflow ensures cooler and more fluent vapors. However, you can purchase a Pax Plus if you want a warmer and thicker output.
Heating Performance and Airflow
As I have discussed earlier, the Pax Flow Vaporizer has a hybrid heating system. A hybrid system is often considered inefficient, but this device heats up to 0.35 grams of dry herbs within 35 seconds. The airpath is wider to ensure easier draws. The airflow is six times more than that of the previous models. You do not have to sip it; the vapors lead their way into your mouth. The sessions are more dynamic, and better cooling enables making longer draws.
The Pax Plus Vaporizer is a pure conduction device that takes around 40 seconds to cook 0.5 grams of dry herbs. While the oven size is more accommodating, the efficiency falls short of what Pax Flow offers. The vapor path is narrower, so you have to sip it like you are drinking a milkshake from a straw. The absence of convection technology really hurts the Pax Plus Vaporizer’s performance. Moreover, the sessions are restricted to four experience modes.
Verdict
The Pax Flow Vaporizer is an obvious choice with its faster hybrid heating system. It has a superior airflow that feels easier on the lungs. The oven size is compromised, but it is not that big of a deal.
Controls, Temperature Flexibility, and Features
The overall controlling mechanism of both devices is more or less the same. They have the OG petal LED indicators to communicate temperature settings and battery life. Moreover, the haptic feedback and single-button control are simple yet effective features to control the devices. You get no mobile app to access the settings in detail. However, certain features set both models apart.
The Pax Flow Vaporizer has five temperature modes, which is one mode more than what the Pax Plus offers. The fifth intensity is the bong mode, designed for waterpipes. The heating system is more dynamic in the Pax Flow.
Verdict
Both devices have almost the same controlling features, but the Pax Flow Vaporizer edges past Pax Plus with its bong mode and more dynamic heating method.
Battery Life and Charging
The Pax Flow Vaporizer has a decent battery capacity, where the 2000 mAh power component delivers 45 minutes of running time on average. This running time translates to 4 to 6 sessions. It has a USB-C charging port that makes it more compatible with modern technology. The battery recharges within 40 minutes and does not support passthrough features.
The Pax Plus Vaporizer is a far more capable device with its 3000 mAh battery delivering 2 hours of running time. It lets you enjoy 6 to 10 sessions on average. Its magnetic dock charging is slower than the USB-C, as you have to wait for 2 to 3 hours before resuming. The magnetic dock has severe compatibility issues with other electronic devices, so it is hard to forget to carry it.
Verdict
The Pax Plus is surely a winner when we consider the running time. Despite its more capable battery, I still prefer Pax Flo due to USB-C charging technology, which makes it more compatible with modern electronics.
Ease of Use
The Pax Plus Vaporizer is a top-mounted device with restricted access to the air path and the heating chamber. Such a restriction limits your ability to clean the heating component and the airpath. The narrower airpath clogs more frequently, so you would need to clean the Pax Plus after every session for optimal quality.
The Pax Flow Vaporizer features a side-mounted heating chamber, which provides more access for easy cleaning. The airpath is easy to clean because it is wider and more accessible. It takes time to clog, so you can clean it once every charging cycle.
Verdict
The Pax Flow is definitely a more convenient device to use due to less frequent cleaning and more access to the heating element & the air path.
Price, Value, and Ownership Cost
One of the most significant aspects of this comparison is the price at which both devices are being sold on the internet. The Pax Flow, being one of the most recent devices, is available on the official website for $350. Despite offering less fulfilling value, the Pax Plus Vaporizer is more affordable for teenagers, as you can purchase it for $150. A restricted budget might force you to buy the Pax Plus Vaporizer.
Final Verdict
After reading the entire comparison, you can already guess my conclusion. The Pax Flow Vaporizer is definitely a more value-added device with its advanced heating and charging mechanism. The heating process is more dynamic and overcomes the metallic taste that all previous Pax Labs devices are prone to. An even more lovable thing about the Pax Flow Vaporizer is the fact that it has perfectly retained the desired features.
The battery capacity and oven size are compromised, but faster heating and charging times serve as a decent bargain. The Pax Plus Vaporizer is not as value-adding as its contemporary device, but its price is more affordable. The affordability alone can be a major deciding factor if your budget is restricted.
Hello and welcome! I’m Daniyal, your guide to the vaping world here at Revival Vape. I bring a unique expertise to the vaping industry. My passion for working in the vaping industry is driven by my love for understanding product innovation, consumer education, and regulatory compliance. I am here to stay up-to-date and keep you informed regarding the launch of the latest vaping products and other developments in the industry. Check About Us.
