Blu vs Innokin: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: Blu vs Innokin. 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 Innokin, 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.
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Further Reading: Discover more through: Discover more through: |
A Quick Intro to Blu and Innokin
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.
Innokin is a vape brand based in Shenzhen, China with a global reach in over 80 countries. Its manufacturing base in China is supported by an after-sales service center in California, USA. Its product range includes pod systems, vape kits, tanks, and more.
Brand History and Background of Blu and Innokin
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.&
Innokin, established in 2011, has emerged as a significant player in the vaping industry. The company holds over 170 patents across design, utility, and processing. The launch of their iTaste VV pen-style vape in 2013, the Cool Fire box mod series in 2014, the Platform starter kits in 2019, and others cemented their reputation. In May 2023, Innokin received a warning letter from the FDA, highlighting regulatory concerns over certain products that were not authorized for sale in the US.
Blu vs Innokin Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of Blu and Innokin vapes before we get into the details:
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Blu |
Innokin |
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Product Range |
Blu 2.0 rechargeable device & pods |
Pod Systems: Klypse, Kroma, Sceptre, EZ.WATT, EQ, EQ S, Go S Pod Vape Kits: Adept Series, Coolfire Z Series, Endura T Series, Go S Series Vape Tanks: Zenith Series, Z Force Series, GoMax Series, GO Z Tank Disposable Vapes: Innobar Series
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Nicotine-free options available? |
No |
Yes (can be paired with 3rd party nicotine-free e-liquids) |
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Device Quality & Build |
Sleek, minimalist design with a durable, lightweight aluminum body. Ergonomic shape for comfortable handling. |
Solid build quality and sleek design, often using durable metal, carbon fiber, glass, and stainless steel |
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Battery Capacity |
Blu 2.0: 400mAh Blu Bar: 400mAh Blu Pro: 1100mAh |
700mAh - 6000mAh (depending on the device) MVP5 Ajax: 5200mAh |
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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 |
0.8ml - 18ml (varies with device type), and typically 10-50 mg/ml nicotine for disposable vapes. (Other devices are compatible with e-liquids with varying nic strengths.) Endura S1: 2ml, available in 10-20 mg/ml nicotine Innobar S3: 12ml, available in 50 mg/ml nicotine Innobar 8000: 17.5ml, 50mg/ml nicotine |
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Number of Puffs per Pod |
Blu 2.0: 262 puffs per charge Blu Bar: 600 puffs Blu Pro: 600 puffs |
600-8000 puffs per pod or refill, depending on the type of device Innobar C1: 600 puffs Innobar S3: 5000 puffs Innobar 8000: 8000 puffs |
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Charging Time |
Blu 2.0, Blu Bar: 1 hour Blu Pro: 2 hours |
Endura T18 Kit: 2-3 hours Innobar C1: 1 hour |
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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 |
Temperature control, auto-cut-off, leakproof design, overcharge protection |
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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) |
Klypse Zip Pod System Kit: $9.99 Arcfire Pod System Kit: $14.99 Kroma-R Starter Kit: $69.99 Proton 235W Kit ((w/ Scion 2): $89.99 |
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Customer Support and Warranty |
1 year |
90 days (plus an additional 90 days with Innokin’s extended warranty program) |
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.
Innokin products are generally known for their sleek and compact designs, with user-friendly features like easy filling and buttonless operation on some models. They typically use stainless steel for durability and PCTG plastic for specific components. While their designs are visually appealing, the glossy finishes can be prone to fingerprints and smudges, which may detract from the overall look over time.
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.
Innokin devices are generally known for their consistent performance and long battery life, with some models lasting a full day on a single charge. Popular models like the Sceptre Tube feature a 1300mAh battery, supporting all-day vaping with efficiency across different coil resistances. Similarly, devices like the Adept offer variable wattage, letting you tailor your vaping experience, while some, like the Proton Mini boast fast charging capabilities.
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.
Innokin vapes, crafted from quality materials like stainless steel and zinc alloy, stand out for their durability and reliability across device types. They deliver impressive puff counts, with certain ranges capable of achieving over 7,000 to 8,000 puffs. Users often report these devices surpassing one year of lifespan under regular use. On the downside, some reviewers mention occasional coil inconsistencies (especially in Sceptre devices) that can lead to needing replacements sooner.
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.
Innokin offers a wide variety of flavors, from refreshing spearmint to fruity and dessert-inspired choices. Moreover, their devices are designed to be compatible with third-party e-liquids, enabling you to choose your preferred flavors.
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.
Innokin devices are engineered to deliver satisfying clouds and a smooth throat hit, adjustable to suit both mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL) vapers. For instance, the Innokin Sceptre allows you to switch between MTL and RDL styles easily, providing a customizable experience. Some of their products, like Innobar C1, come with exclusive water-based e-liquids that satisfy cravings more quickly. Some devices lack a clear battery or e-liquid level indication, which could be frustrating for some users.
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.
Innokin has run into issues with the FDA due to the use of unauthorized flavors in its Esco Bars disposable vape line. Unchecked and unauthorized flavors can contain harmful chemicals, like diacetyl, which has been linked to lung disease. Additionally, they may contain high quantities of sweeteners to lure in teens, potentially starting them on a habit with negative health consequences. Besides, nicotine in e-liquids in Innokin devices is addictive and can mess with your lungs and heart health, and impair brain development in teens.
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.
As we saw above, Innokin got a warning from the FDA in May 2023 for some flavorings in their Esco Bars that weren't approved.
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.
Innokin’s pre-filled vapes come with e-liquid up to 50mg/ml nicotine (up to 20mg/ml in the UK after the latest regulations.) The brand recommends using their refillable vapes with 5-20 mg nic salt juice or 3-12mg freebase nicotine e-liquids.
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.
Most Innokin devices are compatible with a wide range of third-party accessories, including tanks, coils, and e-liquids, enhancing their appeal among users who value versatility.
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.
Innokin vape devices are available in online and offline stores across the US. However, the Innokin Store Locator is unavailable for users in the USA. Moreover, Innokin does not have any explicit marketing authorization from the US FDA — a must for vape brands in the country.
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.
Innokin delivers durable and dependable devices that offer good value for money. On the positive side, devices like the Endura T20 and the Coolfire series are lauded for their build quality and reliability, offering solid performance at a competitive price point. However, the battery life on smaller models may seem inadequate, especially if you’re a heavy vaper. They could also add more innovative features in the entry-level market segment.
Pros and Cons of Blu and Innokin
To summarize, here are the benefits and drawbacks of both these brands:
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Pros of Blu |
Cons of Blu |
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Pros of Innokin |
Cons of Innokin |
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In short, both Blu and Innokin stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
However, both Blu and Innokin are not without their regulatory challenges.
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
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Our innovative products include the Surge, and the Gust Super disposable range. Pick from our stunning range of:
- Fruity vapes, including strawberry vapes, banana vapes, watermelon vapes, and more
- Classic vapes, such as mint vapes and coffee 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.
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