Smok Nord 4 Review – Compact But Capable?
When it comes to pod systems, the Smok Nord 4 has quickly gained attention for blending portability with power. If you’re seeking a device that fits comfortably in your hand yet delivers satisfying vapor and flavor, this vape might just check all the boxes. In this review, we’ll explore everything from design and build quality to coil options, battery life, and overall vaping experience. By the end, you’ll know whether the Smok Nord 4 is the compact but capable device you need in your vaping arsenal.
Introduction to Smok Nord 4
The Smok Nord series has long been popular among vapers who want a simple, user-friendly pod system without compromising on versatility. The Nord 4 continues this legacy, improving on its predecessors with a sleek design and enhanced features. Unlike bulky mods, this device is small and lightweight, making it an ideal choice for beginners and experienced users who want an easy-to-carry option.
The Nord 4 aims to offer both MTL (mouth-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping styles through a variety of coil options. Its adjustable wattage and large battery promise decent performance for a device of this size. But how does it truly perform in daily use? Let’s dive into the details.
Design and Build Quality
Compact and Ergonomic
At first glance, the Smok Nord 4 impresses with its modern, minimalist design. The chassis is made from zinc alloy, giving it a sturdy feel without being heavy. It fits nicely in the palm, making it comfortable for long vaping sessions and easy to pocket. The matte finish adds grip, reducing the chance of slips or drops.
Its compact size is a major plus. The device measures approximately 94mm by 30mm by 22mm, striking a balance between portability and usability. The shape is slightly curved, which enhances the ergonomic feel and makes the Nord 4 stand out from more rectangular pod systems.
User Interface and Display
The device features a vibrant 0.96-inch TFT color screen on the front, which shows essential info like wattage, battery life, coil resistance, puff count, and voltage. The screen is bright and clear, readable even in daylight. Navigation is simple thanks to two adjustment buttons below the screen.
The power/fire button is comfortably placed above the display. Overall, the interface is intuitive, helping users adjust settings easily without diving into complicated menus.
Performance and Features
Wattage Range and Output
The Smok Nord 4 offers an adjustable wattage range from 5W to 80W. This flexibility lets vapers customize their experience from gentle hits to cloud-chasing puffs. The device delivers smooth power output, with minimal delay when firing.
The chipset inside provides consistent performance and several safety protections including short circuit, low voltage, and overheat safeguards. This adds peace of mind for both new and veteran users.
Battery Life and Charging
Equipped with a 2000mAh built-in battery, the Nord 4 can last a full day of moderate vaping. For heavy users, you might need to recharge halfway through the day. Thankfully, charging is fast via USB-C, taking about 45 minutes from zero to full.
The battery indicator on the screen makes it easy to monitor power levels, so you never get caught off guard. The combination of decent capacity and fast charging suits daily portability very well.
Coil Compatibility and Pods
One of the Nord 4’s standout features is its compatibility with multiple coil types. It uses refillable pods with replaceable coils, supporting the Nord and RPM coil families. This means you can switch between mesh coils for large vapor production or ceramic coils for richer flavor.
The pods have a generous 4.5ml e-liquid capacity, reducing the need for frequent refills. They use a side-fill system with a silicone plug, which is straightforward and mess-free. The pods fit snugly and hold tight with strong magnets, preventing leaks during use.
Vapor and Flavor Quality
The vaping experience on the Smok Nord 4 is impressive for a device of its size. The mesh coils produce thick, dense clouds with excellent flavor clarity. Nicotine salts and freebase e-liquids both work well, allowing flexibility in choosing your preferred juice.
Thanks to the adjustable wattage and wide coil range, you can customize your draw to be either tight and mouth-to-lung or more open for direct lung hits. This versatility appeals to vapers who want a multi-purpose device without needing multiple mods.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Simple Operation
The Nord 4 keeps things easy with a three-click power on/off, no complicated menus, and instant coil recognition. Adjusting wattage is quick and smooth. This user-friendly design makes it great for beginners but doesn’t sacrifice options for advanced vapers.
Cleaning and Pod Replacement
Refilling the pods is clean and quick, requiring just lifting the silicone plug and topping off your favorite e-liquid. Pods should be replaced every 1-2 weeks depending on usage and coil type to maintain optimal performance.
Cleaning the device exterior is simple with a damp cloth. There’s no need to disassemble the main body often. Overall, maintenance is minimal and hassle-free.
Comparing the Smok Nord 4 to Other Pod Systems
In comparison to other popular pod mods, the Nord 4 stands out with its solid power range and coil versatility. Many compact devices offer only fixed wattage or limited coil choices. The Nord 4 balances portability with a surprisingly robust feature set.
For example, compared to the original Smok Nord or Nord 2, the Nord 4 improves battery life, wattage ceiling, and pod capacity. Against competitors like the Vaporesso XROS or GeekVape Aegis Boost, the Nord 4 holds its ground well thanks to coil options and build quality.
Potential Drawbacks
No device is perfect, and the Smok Nord 4 has a few minor shortcomings. Some users report that the device can get warm after prolonged chain vaping. Additionally, the pods are proprietary, which means you must buy replacements from Smok or authorized sellers.
Also, while the device is water-resistant, it’s not fully waterproof, so caution around liquids is still necessary. Lastly, users who want extreme cloud chasing might find the wattage limit of 80W somewhat restrictive.
Is the Smok Nord 4 Compact But Capable?
After testing the Smok Nord 4 extensively, it’s clear this device is a powerful contender in the compact pod system market. It offers a sleek, ergonomic design, a bright display, solid battery life, and impressive coil compatibility. Whether you prefer mouth-to-lung or direct lung vaping, the Nord 4 adapts to your style with ease.
Its ability to produce great flavor and thick vapor clouds, combined with easy operation and quick charging, makes it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced vapers. While not flawless, the Nord 4’s minor cons don’t overshadow its strengths. If you want a compact device without sacrificing performance or versatility, the Smok Nord 4 is definitely worth considering. Ready to upgrade your vape? Check out the Smok Nord 4 today and experience compact convenience with big power.
FAQ
What coils work with the Smok Nord 4?
The Nord 4 supports both Smok Nord coils and RPM coils. This includes mesh coils for large clouds and ceramic coils for enhanced flavor.
How long does the Smok Nord 4 battery last?
With its 2000mAh battery, the Nord 4 can typically last a full day of moderate vaping. Heavy users may need to recharge during the day.
Is the Smok Nord 4 good for beginners?
Yes. Its simple controls, clear display, and adjustable wattage make it beginner-friendly, while still offering features for experienced vapers.
Can you use nicotine salts in the Smok Nord 4?
Absolutely. The Nord 4 works well with both nicotine salts and freebase e-liquids.
How do you refill the Smok Nord 4 pods?
Open the silicone plug on the side of the pod, fill with e-liquid, then close the plug securely. Avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.
