Innokin Kroma Z Review – A Forgotten Gem
In the ever-evolving world of vaping, it’s easy for solid devices to get overshadowed by newer, shinier releases. But sometimes, a revisit to older models like the Innokin Kroma Z reveals surprising value. Originally released as part of Innokin’s Z-line, the Kroma Z promised versatility, MTL to RDL performance, and a long-lasting battery in a compact form factor. But does it still hold up today? In this detailed Innokin Kroma Z review, we dive into every aspect—build, performance, coils, battery life, and user experience—to determine if this once-popular pod mod is still worth your time and money.
Build Quality and Design
The first thing you notice about the Kroma Z is how ergonomic and thoughtfully crafted it is. Made with a zinc alloy chassis and rubberized grip, it feels sturdy yet lightweight. It doesn’t try to be flashy—instead, it focuses on function. The magnetic pod fits snugly into the body, with no rattle or looseness. A side-firing button, 0.96-inch color screen, and simple up/down controls make the user interface straightforward even for beginners.
What sets it apart is the form factor. The device sits comfortably in the hand and slides easily into a pocket or small bag. The sleek design appeals to both new and experienced vapers who prefer something discreet yet powerful.
Pod and Coil System
The Kroma Z uses refillable pods with replaceable coils from the well-known Z-coil series—previously seen in the Zenith, Zlide, and other Innokin products. This is a big deal because Z-coils are renowned for their longevity and flavor consistency.
The pod holds 4.5 ml of e-liquid and features a simple bottom-fill port. While not the most convenient filling method by today’s standards, it does keep leaking to a minimum. The device supports both MTL (mouth-to-lung) and RDL (restricted direct lung) vaping styles, thanks to a clever airflow system and a broad coil selection.
Innokin includes a 0.3-ohm RDL coil and a 0.8-ohm MTL coil in the box, allowing users to experiment right away. Other Z-coils are widely available, giving the Kroma Z tremendous flexibility when it comes to finding your ideal draw.
Performance and Flavor
Let’s talk performance—the area where the Kroma Z quietly shines. The 0.3-ohm coil provides a surprisingly warm, dense vape with satisfying vapor production. It won’t compete with dual-battery mods for cloud chasing, but for a compact device, it punches above its weight. Innokin Kroma Z Review On the flip side, the 0.8-ohm coil delivers a tight draw perfect for nicotine salts and high-resistance vaping.
Flavor is where Z-coils consistently deliver. Whether you’re vaping a dessert blend, fruity e-liquid, or tobacco flavor, the Kroma Z produces clean and nuanced taste. Thanks to the airflow slider on the side of the device, you can dial in your preferred resistance and vapor feel without swapping hardware.
Innokin’s smart wattage recommendation system is another plus. When you install a coil, the device suggests a wattage range, reducing the risk of burning out your coil or running it too cool.
Battery Life and Charging
Powered by a built-in 3000mAh battery, the Kroma Z easily lasts a full day for most users, especially those using higher-ohm coils for MTL vaping. Even moderate RDL users will find the battery respectable. The USB-C charging port ensures faster and more reliable charging compared to older micro-USB models.
Charging from 0 to full takes approximately 90 minutes. During testing, the battery life held up well over time, with no dramatic drops in performance even after weeks of regular use. For travelers or on-the-go vapers, this endurance makes the Kroma Z highly reliable.
User Interface and Display
The device features a clear 0.96-inch color screen that shows wattage, resistance, puff count, and battery status. It’s bright enough for outdoor use and simple enough that it won’t overwhelm newer users. The wattage is adjustable from 6W to 40W, covering a wide range of use cases.
The menu navigation is intuitive—press the fire button three times to lock/unlock, and use the up/down buttons to fine-tune your power setting. Holding both buttons brings up secondary options like screen orientation. There’s no temp control or advanced TC suite, but that’s expected for a pod mod at this level.
Airflow Adjustment and Draw
A standout feature of the Kroma Z is its adjustable airflow slider. Rather than forcing users to choose a single coil for a specific style, the slider lets you customize the experience to match your e-liquid, coil, or mood. Slide it wide open for airy RDL hits or close it off for tight, cigarette-like MTL draws.
The resistance range of compatible Z-coils also means you can fine-tune your vape even further. For example, pair the 1.6-ohm Z-coil with minimal airflow and high-nicotine salt for a smooth MTL draw, or go with the 0.5-ohm coil and wide-open airflow for more vapor and warmer flavor.
Comparing Kroma Z with Modern Pod Mods
When compared to newer pod mods like the Vaporesso Luxe XR Max or Voopoo Drag E60, the Kroma Z may seem a little behind in wattage range or aesthetic flash. However, it holds its ground where it matters—flavor, coil compatibility, and battery life.
While some modern pod mods offer higher power and puff counters with app integrations, they often fall short in coil longevity and consistent flavor. This is where the Kroma Z reminds us that newer doesn’t always mean better.
Who Is It For?
The Kroma Z is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners looking for a reliable, user-friendly device
- Former smokers transitioning to vaping with MTL coils
- Vapers who want a pod system with a real battery
- Users who prioritize flavor over cloud size
Advanced users looking for high-wattage, DL vaping might find the 40W cap limiting. However, for everyday users who prefer a tighter draw and portable form factor, the Kroma Z remains a top-tier pick—even in 2025.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Excellent flavor from Z-coils
- Long-lasting 3000mAh battery
- USB-C fast charging
- Smooth airflow control
- Durable, ergonomic design
Cons
- No temperature control or advanced vaping modes
- Bottom-fill system is slightly outdated
- Not ideal for full DL vaping
So, is the Innokin Kroma Z a forgotten gem? Absolutely. In a sea of ever-evolving vape gear, the Kroma Z stands out not through gimmicks or raw power, but through reliable performance, fantastic flavor delivery, and a user-first design. It’s a reminder that a great vape experience doesn’t always need to come from the latest device.
If you’re in the market for a mid-range pod mod that balances simplicity, flexibility, and quality, the Innokin Kroma Z remains one of the best choices—especially for MTL and RDL vapers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What coils are compatible with the Kroma Z?
The Kroma Z is compatible with all Innokin Z-coils, including 0.3Ω, 0.8Ω, 1.2Ω, and 1.6Ω versions. These coils are known for flavor and durability.
Is the Kroma Z good for beginners?
Yes, it’s one of the most beginner-friendly pod mods. Its smart wattage detection and coil system make setup easy and mistake-free.
How long does the Kroma Z battery last?
With a 3000mAh battery, it easily lasts a full day or more depending on your coil and usage style.
Does the Kroma Z leak?
Leakage is minimal, especially when the pod is properly sealed and the fill port is closed securely. Always check the rubber seal after refilling.
Can you use nicotine salts in the Kroma Z?
Yes, especially with the higher-resistance Z-coils like the 0.8Ω and 1.6Ω, the device works great with nicotine salt e-liquids.
