IQOS vs Suorin: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: IQOS vs Suorin. 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 Suorin, 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: Learn more with these references: |
A Quick Intro to IQOS and Suorin
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.
Headquartered in Shenzhen, China, Suorin provides a wide range of vape pod kits and disposable devices. Their portable gadgets cater to all kinds of vapers, from beginners taking their first draw to veterans chasing massive clouds.
Brand History and Background of IQOS and Suorin
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.
Established in 2016, Suorin is an e-cigarette brand founded by Shenzhen Youme Information Technology Co. Ltd. This vaping company rose to prominence after launching their hi-tech pod systems — Suorin Air Pick and Suorin Drop back-to-back in 2016 and 2017. In 2022, Suorin Air Pro device bagged the MUSE Design Award for its exquisite product design. However, in 2024, the brand faced regulatory challenges, especially when the FDA issued marketing denial orders (MDOs) for a couple of Suorin products.
IQOS vs Suorin Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of IQOS and Suorin vapes before we get into the details:
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IQOS |
Suorin |
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Product Range |
ILUMA, ORIGINALS (ONE, DUO), BONDS, lil |
Suorin Air Pick (Disposable) Suorin Fero, Suorin SE Pod, Suorin Air Hybrid Pod, Suorin Air Pro, Suorin Air Mini, Suorin Ace, Suorin Drop2, Suorin Air Plus, Suorin Air Mod, Suorin Trident, Suorin Trio85, Suorin Spce, Suorin Shine (Pod kits)
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Nicotine-free options available? |
No |
No |
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Device Quality & Build |
Stylish and premium devices with a focus on ergonomics |
Sleek, rectangular gadgets with rounded edges and a smooth metallic finish. |
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Battery Capacity |
IQOS ILUMA Prime: 2380 mAh (provides 2 consecutive uses per charge) IQOS lil Solid Ez: 2950mAh (3 consecutive uses per charge) |
Suorin Air Pick: 600 mAh |
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Pod Capacity, Nicotine Strength |
Not applicable - uses tobacco sticks that contain real tobacco (like HEETS & TEREA SMARTCORE) |
Suorin Air Pick: 2 ml, 2% |
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Number of Puffs per Pod |
~14 puffs from each compatible tobacco stick |
Suorin Air Pick: Up to 600 |
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Charging Time |
90-120 minutes (can vary for different product ranges) |
Suorin Air Mini: 30 mins |
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Safety Features |
Heat-not-burn technology, LED indicator, auto-shutoff, and age verification at purchase |
LED indicator, open circuit protection, short-circuit protection, low voltage protection, overcharge protection, and age verification at purchase |
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Device and Pod Cost |
IQOS kit: $100 - $200 (depending on the product) Tobacco sticks: $5 - $10 (pack of 20 sticks) |
Suorin SE Pod: $13.49 |
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Customer Support and Warranty |
1 year |
6 months |
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.
Most Suorin devices are sleek and rectangular with rounded edges and a glossy exterior. The Suorin Drop2, with its unique water-drop design and oval-like shape, stands out for its delicate feel and comfortable grip. These refillable pods come in several colors and are equipped with LED battery indicator lights.
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).
Suorin models like Trident and Trio85 with their robust 18650 mAh replaceable batteries, are a good choice for seasoned vapers prioritizing endurance. However, lower-capacity models such as the Air Mini at just 430 mAh fall short for heavy users, often needing mid-day recharges. Battery life varies significantly across Suorin devices, so selecting the right one is crucial for your vaping satisfaction.
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 Suorin Air Pick may not be very long-lasting. With a modest battery capacity of 600 mAh and up to 600 puffs per pod, it falls short for heavy users who may find themselves recharging and replacing pods frequently throughout the day.
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.
Suorin Air Pick comes in a variety of fruity flavors, including sour apple, blue razz lemonade, triple mango, pink grapefruit, and more.
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.
Most Suorin devices have the dual airflow slot design to deliver a customizable MTL (mouth-to-lung) vaping experience. Models like Suorin Fero, Suorin SE, and Suorin Air Mini are equipped with advanced anti-leakage technology, preventing any leaks or spills. The Suorin Trident features an advanced ORI smart chip. This chip ensures a superior vaping experience by optimizing how the device vaporizes the e-liquid.
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.
Suorin products include 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.
In January 2024, the FDA rejected marketing applications from Shenzhen Youme Information Technology Co. Ltd. for two Suorin e-cigarette products. The agency determined that the applications did not provide adequate evidence concerning the products' "abuse liability," which assesses a tobacco product's potential to foster addiction and dependence.
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.
Suorin vapes offer multiple nicotine delivery options, with capacities ranging from 2 ml in models like the Air Mini and Shine, up to 5 ml in the Trio85. The nicotine concentration in devices such as the Air Pick is set at 2%, which may appeal to new vapers but might be less satisfying for those seeking a stronger hit.
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.
Suorin provides refillable pod systems, giving you the flexibility to use your preferred e-liquid. However, using third-party chargers or accessories may void your warranty and also harm your device. For the best performance and safety, stick with genuine Suorin products and accessories.
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.
Suorin products are exported to over 90 countries including Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Russia, Poland, Mexico, Korea, Japan, and more. While the products can be ordered online, the availability and shipping of vaping 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.
Suorin SE Pod ($13.49) and Suorin Air Mini ($16.19) are affordable but come with basic features and lesser battery capacity, which might not satisfy the needs of more demanding users. In the mid-range, devices like the Suorin Air Pro, Ace, Air Plus, and Shine, all priced around $20-$22, offer better performance and battery life. On the higher end, the Suorin Air Mod, Trident, and Trio85, priced around $26-$27, are equipped with more advanced features like larger battery capacities and more sophisticated atomization technology (like the ORI smart chip in the Trident). These high-end devices are designed for more experienced vapers who prioritize device performance and longevity and offer a good return on investment for those willing to spend a bit more.
Pros and Cons of IQOS and Suorin
To summarize, here are the benefits and drawbacks of both these brands:
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Pros of IQOS |
Cons of IQOS |
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Pros of Suorin |
Cons of Suorin |
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In short, both IQOS and Suorin stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
However, both IQOS and Suorin 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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