Smok RPM 85 Review – Mid-Range Marvel?
In a vaping world full of options, the Smok RPM 85 stands as a contender in the competitive mid-range pod mod category. With a sleek design, generous battery, and robust performance features, it’s often recommended for those wanting more than a basic vape but without the complexities of high-end mods. But does it really deliver? In this Smok RPM 85 review, we take a deep dive into its design, performance, coil compatibility, battery life, and more to see if it lives up to the hype.
First Impressions of the Smok RPM 85
Right out of the box, the Smok RPM 85 feels solid. It strikes a perfect balance between size and ergonomics. It’s not too bulky to carry, yet it offers a firm grip and feels premium in hand. The device features a stylish metallic finish and a large TFT display, giving it a modern and user-friendly vibe.
The buttons are tactile, and the menu navigation is simple even for beginners. Smok has clearly aimed to make this device accessible without stripping away essential customizations.
Design and Build Quality
Ergonomics and Aesthetic Appeal
The RPM 85 features a compact pod mod style with smooth curves and a matte-metallic exterior. It’s visually appealing and comes in several vibrant color options. The build is sturdy — not too heavy, yet durable enough to survive an occasional drop.
Screen and User Interface
A 0.96” TFT screen displays vaping information clearly. Wattage, puff count, battery life, and coil resistance are all available at a glance. The UI is intuitive, and changing settings is straightforward with just a few clicks. This is especially helpful for those new to customizable vape settings.
Power and Performance
Wattage and Output Capabilities
The Smok RPM 85 can output between 5W to 85W, making it highly versatile. Whether you’re a flavor chaser or a cloud enthusiast, this device adjusts to your preference. Running it at 60-70W with the right coil provides a warm, rich vapor that balances flavor and cloud production.
Coil Compatibility and Flavor Delivery
This pod mod is compatible with the Smok RPM 3 coils, which are known for their high performance and durability. The 0.15Ω and 0.23Ω mesh coils, included in the kit, support direct-lung vaping with smooth airflow and full-bodied flavor. Users report exceptional performance from these coils with most 70/30 VG/PG juices.
Airflow Adjustment
The adjustable airflow ring at the top of the pod enhances customization. It allows users to toggle between a tight draw and a wide-open DTL hit. The airflow system feels smoother and more responsive than earlier RPM models, improving vapor control significantly.
Battery Life and Charging
3000mAh Built-In Battery
One of the most impressive aspects of the Smok RPM 85 is its 3000mAh battery. For a device of this size, that’s a powerhouse. Moderate vapers can easily get a full day or more without needing a recharge.
Fast Charging with USB-C
The inclusion of USB-C ensures fast and efficient charging. It typically takes around 90 minutes to go from zero to full, which is reasonable given the battery capacity. The charging port is located at the bottom, which some might find less convenient, but it’s a minor trade-off for the performance offered.
E-Liquid Capacity and Refill System
The RPM 85 pod holds up to 6ml of e-liquid, a generous size compared to many in its class. This means fewer refills throughout the day — especially helpful for heavy vapers. The top-fill system is secure and leak-resistant, making refills cleaner and easier.
Safety Features
Smok has included multiple protections: over-heating, short-circuit, over-discharge, and 8-second cutoff. These features make it a reliable daily driver and safe even for beginners. You won’t have to worry about safety as long as you use authentic coils and compatible juice.
Who Should Use the Smok RPM 85?
The RPM 85 suits intermediate to advanced users who want a powerful pod mod without venturing into full box mod territory. It’s ideal for vapers looking for strong flavor, adjustable power, and good cloud production in a compact form. While not the best choice for MTL lovers, DTL users will likely appreciate its capabilities.
Real-World Performance: User Experience
In everyday use, the RPM 85 is a smooth operator. The device heats quickly and produces dense clouds even at mid-wattages. Flavor from the RPM 3 mesh coils is surprisingly refined, even after a week of use. The device maintains consistent performance across multiple e-liquid types, including dessert, fruit, and menthol profiles.
When it comes to portability, the RPM 85 fits easily in a jacket pocket or bag. It doesn’t leak, and the pod stays firmly in place. These real-world advantages make it reliable for commuting, social vaping, or at-home relaxation.
Comparing Smok RPM 85 to Other Devices
Compared to the Smok RPM 100 or Nord 5, the RPM 85 hits a sweet spot. While the RPM 100 offers more wattage, the 85 provides sufficient power for most and has better battery efficiency. Against the Nord 5, the RPM 85 feels more like a “mini-mod” than a pod system, appealing to users who want greater control and output.
Pros and Cons of the Smok RPM 85
Pros
- Large 3000mAh battery
- Impressive 6ml e-liquid capacity
- Fast Type-C charging
- Solid flavor production with RPM 3 coils
- Adjustable airflow and wattage
Cons
- Bottom charging port placement
- Not ideal for MTL vaping
- Slightly bulky for shirt pockets
Is the Smok RPM 85 Worth It?
In short, yes — the Smok RPM 85 delivers exceptional value for its price. Smok Rpm 85 Review It’s not just a middle-ground device; it’s a mid-range marvel for vapers who want performance without complications. With its powerful battery, generous juice capacity, and satisfying cloud output, it competes with more expensive mods while remaining accessible to casual users.
FAQs
Is the Smok RPM 85 good for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly with simple controls, although it’s better suited for those ready to explore direct-lung vaping.
What coils are compatible with the Smok RPM 85?
The RPM 85 uses RPM 3 coils. It supports both the 0.15Ω and 0.23Ω mesh variants.
How long do the coils last in the RPM 85?
With proper priming and moderate use, RPM 3 coils last 1–2 weeks, depending on the e-liquid type and wattage settings.
Can I use nic salts with the Smok RPM 85?
It’s not recommended. The device is designed for freebase e-liquids due to its high wattage and DTL coil compatibility.
How long does the battery last?
The 3000mAh battery can easily last a full day for moderate users. Heavier users may need to recharge by evening.
Does the Smok RPM 85 leak?
Generally, no. The top-fill system and coil installation are leak-resistant when correctly assembled.
What’s the difference between RPM 85 and RPM 100?
The RPM 100 offers higher wattage and uses a single 18650/21700 external battery, while the RPM 85 has a built-in 3000mAh battery with 85W max output.
