Blu vs FLUM: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: Blu vs FLUM. We're here to dissect every puff, flavor, and cloud.
But how do they compare against each other in terms of product range, performance, flavors, value, and more?
Whether you're on team Blu or rooting for FLUM, this detailed comparison guide is packed with juicy details!
And stick around, because we've got a twist for you – nicotine-free vapes from Cyclone Pods. Safer, smoother, and even more satisfying.
Further Reading: Explore these resources: Learn more with these references: |
A Quick Intro to Blu and FLUM
Blu, headquartered in North Carolina, USA, serves up a sleek range of e-cigarettes and vaping products that cater to the curious newbies and veterans. With a lineup that spans from their myBlu device to a variety of liquid pods and disposables, they've got your back whether you're in it for the taste or the convenience.
FLUM, based in Shenzhen, China, offers a range of disposable vapes in different flavors. These devices are perfect for both new vapers looking for an easy-to-use option and experienced users seeking a portable vape.
Brand History and Background of Blu and FLUM
Let’s look at how the two brands evolved.
Blu vapes, launched in 2009 by Fontem Ventures, quickly made its mark with user-friendly designs, though its journey has seen its share of ups and downs, including regulatory challenges. After being acquired by Lorillard Inc. in 2012 and later by Imperial Brands in 2015, some argue Blu lost some of its pioneering edge amidst corporate shifts. Recent efforts to expand flavor choices and enhance device technology in 2023 and 2024 have kept Blu in the game. However, in Feb 2024, the US FDA issued marketing denial orders (MDOs) for four Blu Disposables (Menthol 2.4%, Vanilla 2.4%, Polar Mint 2.4%, Cherry 2.4%) and one Myblu product (Menthol 1.2%.) Fontem Ventures cannot market or distribute these products in the US.&
FLUM was founded by Flumigo Technology Ltd., a company based in China. It became popular after launching the FLUM Float series, the first disposables introduced by this vaping brand. As of 2024, FLUM hasn’t received FDA approval to sell their disposables in the USA. But, the products are widely available on various e-commerce platforms and specialized vape shops across the US.
Blu vs FLUM Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of Blu and FLUM vapes before we get into the details:
|
Blu |
FLUM |
Product Range |
Blu 2.0 rechargeable device & pods |
FLUM Float, FLUM Gio, FLUM Pebble, FLUM Pebble X, FLUM Mello (Disposables)
|
Nicotine-free options available? |
No |
Yes (FLUM Float 3000 Disposable) |
Device Quality & Build |
Sleek, minimalist design with a durable, lightweight aluminum body. Ergonomic shape for comfortable handling. |
Ergonomic design with rounded edges and a smooth outer finish |
Battery Capacity |
Blu 2.0: 400mAh Blu Bar: 400mAh Blu Pro: 1100mAh |
FLUM Float: 650 mAh |
Pod Capacity, Nicotine Strength |
Blu 2.0: 1.9ml pods, 18 mg/ml Blu Pro: 9 mg/ml and 18 mg/ml (0.8% and 1.6%). Blu Bar: 20 mg/ml |
FLUM Float: 6.1ml, 5% and 0% |
Number of Puffs per Pod |
Blu 2.0: 262 puffs per charge Blu Bar: 600 puffs Blu Pro: 600 puffs |
FLUM Float: Up to 3000 |
Charging Time |
Blu 2.0, Blu Bar: 1 hour Blu Pro: 2 hours |
FLUM Pebble: 1-2 hours |
Safety Features |
Blu 2.0 has a magnetic pod retention system that secures the pods in place while you use it. This eliminates the risk of unintended pod detachment. Blue Pro has a 10-second cut-off protection, overcharge protection |
LED indicator, short-circuit protection, over-charging protection, and age verification at purchase |
Device and Pod Cost |
Blue 2.0: £9.99 (UK) Blu Pro kit: £17.99 (UK) Blu Bar 600: £3.99 (UK) Blu Bar 1000: £5.99 (UK) Pods: £3.99 - £6.99 (UK), $9.99 (2-pack) |
FLUM Float: $13.99 |
Customer Support and Warranty |
1 year |
Not mentioned on the website |
Now let’s compare these brands in detail:
1. Design and Aesthetics
Blu's design is sleek, minimalistic, and compact. The Blu 2.0 comes with a satin and gloss finish and has a PowerTap feature for checking your battery on the go. It has a closed pod system, rapid recharging, and uses PURLAVA™ heating technology with ceramic wicks. This prolongs the life of the coil, ensuring all of the e-liquid in each pod is vaporized before the coil expires. Each Blu device has unique configurations that contribute to their vapor output. For example, the Blu Pro is designed for a more direct-to-lung vaping style, which typically produces more vapor compared to the more discreet, mouth-to-lung style of the Blu 2.0 and Blu Bar disposables.
The FLUM Float and the Gio series are pen-style, cylindrical vape devices in a range of soft colors. In contrast, the Pebble, Pebble X, and Mello series feature rectangular-shaped gadgets with a smooth, matte-like exterior. The Mello lineup offers animated screens that allow easy monitoring of e-liquid capacity and battery life status.
2. Performance and Battery Life
The Blu 2.0 and Blu Bar, both with 400mAh batteries, provide adequate power for light to moderate users. But, they need to be recharged frequently and may fall short for heavy vapers. The Blu Pro, with its 1100mAh battery, stands out for longer-lasting performance, catering well to more demanding users. However, across the board, Blu's battery life can be a limiting factor, especially when compared to competitors offering higher capacity options for extended use.
The FLUM Float, Gio, and Mello devices, each with a 650 mAh battery, provide reasonably good longevity but might not satisfy heavy users. The Pebble devices, with a 500 mAh battery, fall short in endurance. However, the Pebble X devices come with a robust 2000 mAh battery, ensuring you enjoy extended vape sessions. Overall, some models excel and others require frequent recharging, making battery life a critical consideration for potential buyers.
3. Longevity
Blu vapes' longevity varies, with the Blu 2.0 offering 262 puffs per charge, falling short for heavy users. Meanwhile, Blu Bar and Blu Pro provide a more robust 600 puffs, catering better to frequent vapers. This range indicates a moderate lifespan, positioning Blu as a practical option for daily vaping needs.
The FLUM Float and Gio devices, with up to 3000 puffs and 650 mAh batteries, are suitable for moderate users and might require frequent recharging. The Pebble and Pebble X devices, offering up to 6000 puffs, show better durability. Besides, the Pebble X's 2000 mAh battery provides extended use. The Mello lineup stands out with an impressive 20,000 puffs. However, its small 650 mAh battery may require more frequent charging than you’d like.
4. Flavor Selection and Nicotine Options
Blu vapes' flavor selection ranges from classic Tobacco and Menthol to more exotic ones like Pina Colada and Java in Blu 2.0. Blu Bar flavors lean into fruit-based flavors like Banana Ice and Peach Ice, appealing to users who favor sweet, refreshing tastes. The Blu Bar variety pack allows you to try multiple flavors before committing to a single one.
FLUM disposables are available in a variety of fruit-based, and other flavors, including:
5. Vaping Experience
Blu vapes are generally known for moderate vapor production and a discreet and satisfying experience. The vapor output is sufficient for casual vaping, providing a smooth and consistent draw. The throat hit from Blu vapes is notably satisfying, especially for former smokers or users who prefer a stronger sensation reminiscent of traditional cigarettes. This is achieved through their nicotine formulation and the device's design, which ensures a sharp, clear hit at higher nicotine strengths, such as the 20 mg/ml offered in Blu Bars.
The Flum Mello devices are equipped with hybrid 2.0 mesh coils, which deliver consistent flavor from the first draw to the last. The adjustable airflow button allows for precise control over the air-to-e-liquid mix, providing a personalized vaping experience. You can also view essential information, such as remaining e-liquid and battery levels, on an HD display screen.
6. Health and Safety Concerns
Blu has been in the hot seat for health concerns, especially with its high nicotine content leading to worries about addiction and cardiovascular impact. There's also the buzz about exposure to harmful substances like benzoic acid in their pods, though they're generally considered less harmful than traditional cigarettes.
FLUM products contain nicotine, which can pose health risks and lead to addiction. Additionally, nicotine vapes may contain vitamin E acetate, diacetyl, and other harmful chemicals.
7. Regulatory Compliance and Legal Issues
The FDA’s marketing denial orders (Feb 2024) against some flavored Blu vapes, including menthol are mainly due to insufficient evidence on their public health impact. Concerns highlighted include the lack of data on harmful ingredients in the aerosol and battery safety issues.
FLUM hasn’t yet received FDA approval to sell their disposable vapes in the USA. It’s likely due to stringent regulatory requirements and the comprehensive review process that the FDA mandates for all tobacco and vape products.
Note: Consumers must also verify adherence to the latest local laws prior to any purchase of devices from these brands.
8. Nicotine Content Potential
Blu vapes offer nicotine levels that vary across their product range, including 18 mg/ml for their pods and up to 20 mg/ml for Blu Bar disposables, providing a potent nicotine delivery that can satisfy cravings effectively. However, these higher nicotine concentrations also raise considerations for addiction potential.
FLUM vapes offer varying nicotine strengths and pod capacities, with most models featuring a 5% nicotine concentration. Only the FLUM Float devices provide a 0% nicotine option. The pod capacities of FLUM disposables range from 6.1ml in the Float and Gio series to 15ml in the Mello series, ensuring prolonged use and consistent delivery.
9. Compatibility with Other Products
Blu vapes' proprietary design restricts cross-compatibility with third-party options. This exclusivity ensures a consistent experience but narrows customization options.
FLUM vapes are designed as disposables, making them incompatible with third-party e-liquids and accessories. While this gives you a hassle-free experience, it limits customization options if you prefer to mix and match components.
10. Availability and Accessibility
Blu vapes are widely available in both the US and UK in online and retail stores. Availability in other regions may vary due to local regulations and market presence.
A number of third-party websites allow you to order FLUM products online. However, the availability and shipping of these products can be impacted by location-specific regulations and restrictions.
11. Cost vs. Quality
Blu vapes offer a competitive price range, from the affordable Blu Bar disposables at £3.99 to £5.99 in the UK, to the more comprehensive Blu Pro kit at £17.99. This offers a good cost-to-quality ratio, with an affordable and reliable vaping experience despite limitations like restricted third-party compatibility and variable vapor production. Their wide flavor range and user-friendly design make them an attractive option, though higher nicotine levels may deter those seeking lower intake.
The FLUM Float and Gio devices, priced at $13.99 and $11.99 respectively, provide a good entry-level experience with 5% nicotine and a 6.1ml pod capacity. The Pebble and Pebble X devices, at $14.99 and $15.99, offer 10ml pods and up to 6000 puffs, justifying the slightly higher cost. The Mello device, priced at $15.99, stands out with its 15ml pod. It also has advanced features like an HD display and hybrid mesh coils, offering superior quality for its price.
Pros and Cons of Blu and FLUM
To summarize, here are the benefits and drawbacks of both these brands:
Pros of Blu |
Cons of Blu |
|
|
Pros of FLUM |
Cons of FLUM |
|
|
In short, both Blu and FLUM stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
Blu finds itself navigating through some regulatory hurdles, unlike FLUM.
Now, if you’re on the lookout for a nicotine-free alternative without compromising on the vaping experience, we’ll tell you what’s best.
Cyclone Pods: The Safest, High-Quality, Nicotine-Free Alternative
Cyclone Pods is a game-changer for vapers looking to ditch nicotine without losing the vaping experience. We offer a wide range of nicotine-free vapes, making it easier than ever to cut down or stop nicotine consumption.
Our innovative products include the Surge, and the Gust Super disposable range. Pick from our stunning range of:
- Fruity vapes, including raspberry vapes, watermelon vapes, guava vapes, and more
- Classic vapes, such as menthol vapes and mint vapes
- Exotic flavor blends
We use only high-quality flavorings, vegetable glycerin, and propylene glycol in our vape juice giving you big clouds and the purest of flavors. There’s absolutely no vitamin E acetate, diacetyl, or any other addictive substances, including nicotine.
We're committed to providing choices that make your nicotine-free journey both enjoyable and satisfying.
So, why wait?
Find out which nicotine-free vape you’d like to start with now.