IQOS vs FLUM: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: IQOS 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 IQOS 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: Discover more through: Check out these links: |
A Quick Intro to IQOS and FLUM
IQOS (pronounced "EYE-kohs"), an acronym for "I Quit Ordinary Smoking," refers to a product line of tobacco and e-cigarette devices made by Philip Morris International (PMI). Therefore, technically speaking, IQOS products are not vapes but rather fall into the broader category of electronic cigarettes. It focuses on ‘heat-not-burn’ tobacco products, offering smoke-free alternatives to traditional cigarettes. PMI positions IQOS as less harmful, but it's crucial to remember that it still delivers nicotine and isn't risk-free. Headquartered in Stamford, USA, PMI offers smoke-free products in 84 markets globally. The company has two smoke-free product research facilities in Singapore and Switzerland.
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 IQOS and FLUM
Let’s look at how the two brands evolved.
PMI was established in 1847 in New York and has long been a major player in the cigarette industry. However, facing declining smoking rates and growing health concerns, the company began exploring alternatives in the early 2000s. This led to the creation of a dedicated research and development division focused on smoke-free products, paving the way for IQOS. Philip Morris International first launched IQOS in Japan and Italy in 2014.
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.
IQOS vs FLUM Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of IQOS and FLUM vapes before we get into the details:
|
|
IQOS |
FLUM |
|
Product Range |
ILUMA, ORIGINALS (ONE, DUO), BONDS, lil |
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 |
Stylish and premium devices with a focus on ergonomics |
Ergonomic design with rounded edges and a smooth outer finish |
|
Battery Capacity |
IQOS ILUMA Prime: 2380 mAh (provides 2 consecutive uses per charge) IQOS lil Solid Ez: 2950mAh (3 consecutive uses per charge) |
FLUM Float: 650 mAh |
|
Pod Capacity, Nicotine Strength |
Not applicable - uses tobacco sticks that contain real tobacco (like HEETS & TEREA SMARTCORE) |
FLUM Float: 6.1ml, 5% and 0% |
|
Number of Puffs per Pod |
~14 puffs from each compatible tobacco stick |
FLUM Float: Up to 3000 |
|
Charging Time |
90-120 minutes (can vary for different product ranges) |
FLUM Pebble: 1-2 hours |
|
Safety Features |
Heat-not-burn technology, LED indicator, auto-shutoff, and age verification at purchase |
LED indicator, short-circuit protection, over-charging protection, and age verification at purchase |
|
Device and Pod Cost |
IQOS kit: $100 - $200 (depending on the product) Tobacco sticks: $5 - $10 (pack of 20 sticks) |
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
IQOS devices have a sleek, modern look, available in matte, glossy or metallic finishes and various colors. They embody the brand's signature monolithic look — a unified minimalist form. Simple button layouts and clear LED lights prioritize user-friendliness. The mix of plastic and metal aims for a sturdy yet stylish build, though some models scratch easily or feel bulky.
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
IQOS devices offer varying battery life depending on the model. Some devices are all-in-ones, while others come as starter kits, comprising the main device (aka the holder) and a charging case. Most IQOS devices provide enough power for around 20 uses per charge and 2-3 consecutive uses (2-3 tobacco sticks in a row).
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
Since IQOS devices are more of an alternative to cigarettes, it might not be fair to compare them with vapes. IQOS offers potential cost savings vs. cigarettes, with each stick lasting 10-14 puffs at a lower cost per puff. Some users report 1-2 years of use before encountering issues like battery degradation, button malfunctions, or heating problems. Others claim their devices have lasted longer, depending on usage frequency and care.
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
IQOS offers a diverse flavor palette through its HEETS, Fiit, and TEREA tobacco sticks. Flavors are categorized into Classic, Menthol, Aromatic (mint and fruit flavors), and other ranges.
FLUM disposables are available in a variety of fruit-based, and other flavors, including:
5. Vaping Experience
IQOS offers a vaping experience distinct from traditional cigarettes and e-cigarettes. Users report a smoother, less harsh experience with various flavor options. However, some find it less satisfying than cigarettes, and the lack of strong nicotine options might be a drawback.
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
IQOS products, while marketed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, still carry health risks, including potential lung damage and impacts on immune function. And while IQOS sticks contain less total nicotine, the amount absorbed may be similar to traditional cigarettes. So concerns also revolve around nicotine addiction and exposure to harmful substances.
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
IQOS got a US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) nod for their "reduced exposure" claim (vs. cigarettes) in 2020, but a patent infringement lawsuit in 2021 halted US sales, with no clear timeline for resumption. As of February 2024, PMI emphasizes its ongoing "constructive dialogue" with the FDA, as it plans IQOS’s US launch in 2024.
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
IQOS heats real tobacco, providing a controlled nicotine delivery similar to traditional smoking. As a result, the nicotine strength options are limited, typically available in regular and light versions. IQOS tobacco sticks contain about 70-80% of the nicotine in regular cigarettes. Each stick has over 4mg of nicotine, which is high but slightly less than the 10-14mg per cigarette in regular brands.
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
IQOS devices are not cross-compatible with cigarettes or tobacco sticks from other brands, or any other vaping products. They are specifically designed to be used with their own branded tobacco sticks, such as HEETS for earlier models and TEREA SMARTCORE STICK for the IQOS ILUMA series, ensuring device functionality and safety.
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
While IQOS devices were authorized by the FDA for marketing in the US, sales currently remain halted due to a legal dispute. Their availability depends on resolving this issue and navigating import restrictions. That said, PMI plans to launch its products in the US in phases (subject to approval from authorities), starting in two unnamed states staring May 2024, followed by a national launch. Note: The US FDA has not authorized IQOS as a smoking cessation aid.
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
IQOS devices, priced around $100 and up, aim for quality with Heat-not-burn technology, offering a consistent smoking alternative with reduced harmful chemicals. Despite a higher initial cost compared to some competitors, the investment reflects its technological and safety features.
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 IQOS and FLUM
To summarize, here are the benefits and drawbacks of both these brands:
|
Pros of IQOS |
Cons of IQOS |
|
|
|
|
Pros of FLUM |
Cons of FLUM |
|
|
|
In short, both IQOS and FLUM stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
IQOS 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 strawberry vapes, banana vapes, mango vapes, and more
- Classic vapes, such as coffee vapes and menthol 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.