REVIEW: SMOK NOVO AXIS POD SYSTEM

If you're already a fan of the SMOK NOVO series, you'll be pleased to know that the NOVO AXIS has made its grand debut as the newest addition to the family. It stands out from the pack with a hidden display and customizable visual themes. Yes, it's a pod system, but it seems to have a personality of its own. The unique 0.96-inch display is the hallmark of the NOVO AXIS, and crafting a tailored session each time is a core part of the experience.

It's made for anyone looking to switch from disposables to a more cost-effective form of vaping, or for those who want to indulge in some intuitive pod system gear.

I put the NOVO AXIS to the test, puffing along to see if it has any real stake in the vape game. In short, it mostly does.

Here's the rundown on the device and why it deserves its own blog moment!

When it comes to the device itself, you get the simplicity that SMOK NOVO is known for, but in a more upgraded and compact form. It's the natural evolution of previous systems like the NOVO Master and the NOVO 5.

The AXIS uses NOVO SLR 2.0 pods, which are important to the device's output and performance. The compatible pods cover a 0.4-2.5ohm resistance range. This is great because it's a wide umbrella that covers different vaping styles like MTL and RDTL. I like a tight but slightly airy draw, so the 0.8ohm pod works well for me.

The NOVO AXIS performs exactly like a pod system should. Backed by a 1350mAh battery, it has some real power behind it, meaning a single charge can last most of the day (if you're hitting it constantly, like I know you are). The adjustable airflow slider also lets you fine-tune your draws to your needs. It's the intuitiveness and the ability to adjust and modify as you see fit that give the device an edge over the competition.

In use, there's a minimal learning curve, and the three operating modes mean you can save power by putting it on ECO instead of blowing through Normal and Power modes. Your mode choice will help determine how many puffs you get and how intense each hit is.

When you run out of juice, the top-fill design means you can easily refill without piecing apart the device. Wet your wick and get to filling, it's that simple. All in all, it's a great device for everyday use, with more longevity and consistency than a disposable, without the hassle and nuances of being a full-on mod.

Which brings us to the actual specs, so you can determine on paper how it stacks up against your favorite pod systems.

Now that you've seen the numbers, here's what stood out: its hidden screen that blends into the body instead of looking like a screen element, its durable aluminum-alloy and PCTG construction, and its dual-firing operation. But I'd be derelict if I didn't give you the cons as well.

The biggest con for me has to be the charging speed. Hear me out: the Type-C charging is on the slow side. Pulling roughly 5V/1.2A, it gets the job done, but it lags behind many newer pod devices that have already moved up to 1.5A or 2A charging. If you're an ardent vaper, you'll eventually have to succumb to the slow charging. If you're on the casual side of things, waiting for it to charge shouldn't be an issue. It does support pass-through charging, but you have to stay plugged in for a long time, which is a major bummer.

In addition to charging speed, the pods sometimes seep, which means you have to stay on top of cleaning. In my experience, the pods only leaked a little and pooled in the connection bay, but I can see how it could become a problem if left unchecked.

The last thing isn't really a con so much as a preference: this device isn't aimed at cloud chasing. Smaller clouds but tighter draws is the tradeoff.

Okay, back to the good stuff, because overall it's a sturdy device that really does make a good first impression.

I can't stress how cool the screen is. I love that it's hidden, and I love the luxe feel it gives the device. Lots of color options mean I don't have to pick the basic black option that some pod systems offer. The UI themes are something of a wonder: Classic, Dynamic, and Rave. Depending on your mood for the week, you can switch up the vibe of the device. Being part of the NOVO family also means the pods are super easy to find, and the SLR 2.0 pods are incredibly versatile.

The main interface shows battery life, power mode, and puff count, which helps you stay locked into the session. You can also monitor your use throughout the day if you like keeping stats on how much you're hitting. The battery is phenomenal, and the flavors really shine through with every puff.

Since the AXIS is part of the SMOK family, the SMOK NOVO 6 Ultra felt like the natural comparison.

Charging: Charging speed is a sore spot for me, and it's where the AXIS loses ground. The NOVO 6 Ultra fully charges in about 45 minutes, while the AXIS took anywhere from an hour to 80 minutes in my testing.

Battery and size: The Ultra has the bigger battery at 1700mAh versus 1350mAh, but that extra capacity comes with extra bulk. If you want something compact and highly portable, the AXIS is the clear winner.

Display: This is the real differentiator. The Ultra has a TFT touchscreen with haptic feedback, while the AXIS uses a hidden 0.96-inch display that stays out of sight until you need it. Which one is better comes down to whether you prefer an interactive interface or a cleaner, more discreet look, so I'd call this category a draw.

Price: The two are nearly identical, with the AXIS costing only $4 more than the Ultra.

How it stacks up against the NOVO 5: The Ultra isn't the only comparable device in the SMOK lineup. The NOVO 5 offers a 900mAh battery, a zinc-alloy chassis, and a 5-30W range. Ergonomics are similar in terms of grip and structure, and the price gap is roughly $10, with the AXIS being the more expensive of the two. Compared to the NOVO 5, the AXIS feels like a real step forward, largely thanks to its improved battery.

The SMOK NOVO AXIS Pod System is a piece of gear that is perfect for those who want some unique hardware in their setup. Visually it's a stunning device, and it features a plethora of user-friendly attributes that make it well worth its price. In the pod game, it's hard to find something priced at $29.99 that has premium features like specialized UI themes, a 1350mAh integrated battery, a hidden display screen, and variable voltage.

It really does punch above its weight class, but like many things in life, it's not a perfect device. It's definitely geared toward people who want to vape on the go and lean into the MTL and RDTL vaping styles. It holds its own in the vape space, and thus has its own blog. 

If you go in knowing it's a simple device that delivers a premium experience without a lot of extra accessories, and that the charging is a bit finicky, I'd easily recommend it.

Are you ready to turn on your axis and try out the SMOK NOVO AXIS Pod System?

Shop the SMOK NOVO AXIS Pod System at ElementVape