Eleaf vs Innokin: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: Eleaf 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 Eleaf 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: Explore these resources: |
A Quick Intro to Eleaf and Innokin
Eleaf is a China-based vaping company that offers a wide range of electronic cigarettes, including mods, tanks, and starter kits, catering to both novice and experienced users. They’re known for simple designs at affordable prices.
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 Eleaf and Innokin
Let’s look at how the two brands evolved.
Eleaf was founded in Shenzhen in 2011. The 2014 launch of the iStick series, known for its compact design and ease of use, bolstered the company’s reputation among a diverse user base. As the brand evolved, it broadened its offerings with various mods, tanks, and starter kits, prioritizing tech advancement and customer satisfaction. Eleaf has faced regulatory scrutiny from the US FDA and has been subject to health debates, but the company remains focused on product safety and compliance.
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.
Eleaf vs Innokin Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of Eleaf and Innokin vapes before we get into the details:
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Eleaf |
Innokin |
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Product Range |
iStick Series, iJust Series, Pico Series (mod and tank mod vapes) IORE Series, iSOLO Series (pod mods) IORE 500 Disposable, iStick D Disposable (disposable vapes) EN Series, EP Series, GTL Series, MELO Series, GS Series, iJust Series, ELLO Series (tanks) EN Series, EP Series, GTL Series, EC Series, GX Series, GZ Series, HW Series, GT Series, EF Series (coils) (Note: Availability differs by country) |
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 |
High-quality, smooth, stainless steel, aluminum alloy, leather (on select products only), and plastic construction |
Solid build quality and sleek design, often using durable metal, carbon fiber, glass, and stainless steel |
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Battery Capacity |
Varies between 1050mAh to 5000mAh, depending on the device Mini iStick 10W: 1050mAh iStick (standard): 2200mAh iStick Power 2: 5000mAh |
700mAh - 6000mAh (depending on the device) MVP5 Ajax: 5200mAh |
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Pod Capacity, Nicotine Strength |
Disposable vape range: 1.5-2.3ml, comes with 50mg (5%) nic salt vape juice Reusable tanks: typically 2-5ml, recommended to be used with 5mg - 20mg nic salt vape juice Reusable pods: 2ml, recommended to be used with 5mg - 20mg nic salt vape juice Disposable pods: 1.5ml, used with 20mg nic salt vape juice |
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 |
IORE 500 Disposable: 500 puffs IORE Lite Disposable pod: 3000 puffs GX Series and MELO series coils: 2000 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 |
Stick Power 2: 120 minutes iStick 30W: 120 minutes iJust Start: 180 minutes |
Endura T18 Kit: 2-3 hours Innobar C1: 1 hour |
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Safety Features |
Short circuit protection, battery level indicator, automatic shut off, low-voltage protection |
Temperature control, auto-cut-off, leakproof design, overcharge protection |
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Device and Pod Cost |
iStick range: $22.99 -$53.99 IORE range: $10.09 - $16.09 |
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 |
90 days limited warranty |
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
Eleaf vapes are known for their innovative designs and aesthetics across the board. Most Eleaf vapes incorporate tanks into their designs, as well as smooth, flush finishes that give off a sophisticated feel and tone. The IORE range introduced ultra-lightweight pod-based vapes that pack a punch with fast charging and sleek, minimalistic designs. But users have raised some functional issues like inconvenient refill mechanisms on some models, like in the iJust's atomizer design and the iStick P100's overly turbulent and noisy airflow. So, while Eleaf excels in functionality and affordability, there's room for enhancing design, convenience, and overall aesthetic appeal.
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 battery life of Eleaf products varies depending on the specific model and usage patterns. The Eleaf iStick, for example, features a compact design with a 2200mAh capacity, reaching up to 20W output wattage and adjustable voltage settings. On the other hand, the iStick Power has an impressive 5000mAh battery capacity, supporting up to 80W output and various modes like VW, Bypass, Smart, and TC for different vaping experiences.
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
Eleaf incorporates leather, aluminum, and ABS plastic in its vapes to boost its longevity. However, the longevity of Eleaf products, such as the Eleaf iStick and iCare, varies depending on usage and maintenance. Fortunately, repair and maintenance is easy and convenient, as replacement parts like coils and tanks, pods, and glass tubes are readily available and easy to install.
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
Eleaf offers a diverse range of e-liquid flavors and products designed to enhance the vaping experience:
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
Eleaf vapes allow you to select from a wide range of personalized coils and cutting-edge features like temperature control and power outputs. You can personalize your vape's taste, vapor production, and power output – whether you prefer large, smooth clouds or chasing that throat kick.
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
The Eleaf brand's official website and product pages are upfront about the addictive qualities of nicotine, making it clear that their offerings are strictly for adult users. But, nicotine use is widely associated with addiction, nausea, breathing difficulties, and cardiovascular issues.
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
In 2020, The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning letter to Eleaf USA regarding health and safety concerns associated with their Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS). This letter highlighted issues related to new tobacco products without required marketing authorization, which are considered adulterated and misbranded. Since then, Eleaf has abided by US regulations and continues to sell in the US.
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
Eleaf’s disposable vapes contain either 17mg, 30mg, or 50mg (1.7%, 3%, and 5%) nic salt vape juice in 2.3-4ml capacities. Note: Eleaf pod and mod vapes are compatible with third-party e-liquids of varying strengths (check coil compatibility before use).
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
Eleafs’ proprietary design limits its cross-compatibility with other pods. However, Eleaf devices are compatible with third-party e-liquids.
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
Eleaf products are widely available through various online vape stores and their official online stores across the US and the UK.
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
Eleaf vapes offer a variety of vaping options across different price points. For example, the Eleaf iStick range is priced between $24 and $47. Other Eleaf products with limited features, such as the IOre range, are more cost-effective and are priced between $10 - $16. Eleaf’s disposable vapes are typically around $6.
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 Eleaf and Innokin
To summarize, here are the benefits and drawbacks of both these brands:
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Pros of Eleaf |
Cons of Eleaf |
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Pros of Innokin |
Cons of Innokin |
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In short, both Eleaf and Innokin stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
However, both Eleaf 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.
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