IQOS vs VOOPOO: Features, Price + More (2024)
The epic showdown: IQOS vs VOOPOO. 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 VOOPOO, 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: Check out these links: |
A Quick Intro to IQOS and VOOPOO
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, VOOPOO offers a variety of rechargeable pods, mods, and tank systems. Their devices are apt for all kinds of vapers, whether they’re taking their first puff or seasoned vapers looking to blow massive clouds.
Brand History and Background of IQOS and VOOPOO
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.
VOOPOO was established in 2016 by the ICCPP Group (an electronic atomization group enterprise). This vaping company introduced the GENE chip in 2017, an innovation that offered vapers unprecedented firing speed and control. In 2021, the FDA inquired into VOOPOO's approach to social media marketing, particularly to what extent their promotional strategies are targeting younger audiences. In May 2023, VOOPOO took home the titles of Best Mod and Best International Brand at the Vapouround Awards.
IQOS vs VOOPOO Comparison Summary
Take a quick look at the features of IQOS and VOOPOO vapes before we get into the details:
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IQOS |
VOOPOO |
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Product Range |
ILUMA, ORIGINALS (ONE, DUO), BONDS, lil |
ARGUS G2, ARGUS P2, ARGUS PRO 2, ARGUS P1s, ARGUS P1, ARGUS G, ARGUS POD SE, ARGUS XT, ARGUS MT, ARGUS POD, ARGUS Z, ARGUS GT II, ARGUS PRO NEW COLOR, ARGUS PRO, ARGUS X, ARGUS, ARGUS GT, ARGUS Air (Rechargeable pods) DRAG S2, DRAG X2, DRAG H40, DRAG E 60, DRAG H80S, DRAG M100S, DRAG 4, DRAG H80S, DRAG Nano 2 Nebula Edition, DRAG Q, DRAG S PnP-X KIT, DRAG X PnP-X KIT, DRAG NANO 2, DRAG 3, DRAG 3 TPP X, DRAG X PRO, DRAG S PRO, DRAG X PLUS PRO EDITION, DRAG X PLUS, DRAG MAX, DRAG mini Refresh EditiON, DRAG X Mod Pod, DRAG S Mod Pod, DRAG 2 Refresh Edition, Black DRAG, DRAG 2 Platinum, DRAG Mini Platinum, DRAG Baby Trio, DRAG Nano Pod, DRAG 2, Drag Mini, Gold DRAG (Rechargeable pods) DORIC Galaxy, VMATE PRO, DORIC 20 SE, DORIC Q, DORIC E, VMATE E, VMATE INFINITY EDITION, DORIC 60, MUSKET, SEAL, VMATE, V.SUIT, DORIC 20, V.THRU Pro (Rechargeable pods) VINCI POD SE, VINCI Q POD, VINCI POD ROYAL EDITION, VINCI 3, VINCI X2, VINCI 2, VINCI Pod, VINCI AIR Pod, VINCI X Mod Pod, VINCI MOD POD, VINCI R MOD POD, VINCI Rainbow Mod Pod (Rechargeable pods) UFORCE-L TANK, MAAT TANK NEW, TPP-X POD TANK, TPP POD TANK 2, TPP POD TANK (Tank mods)
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Nicotine-free options available? |
No |
Yes (VINCI 2, DRAG NANO 2, and more) |
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Device Quality & Build |
Stylish and premium devices with a focus on ergonomics |
Compact and sturdy devices generally fitted with a silver metal frame. |
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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) |
ARGUS G2: 1000 mAh DRAG S2: 2500 mAh DORIC Galaxy: Built-in 500 mAh (Pen), Built-in 1800 mAh (Power Bank) VINCI POD SE: 900 mAh |
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Pod Capacity, Nicotine Strength |
Not applicable - uses tobacco sticks that contain real tobacco (like HEETS & TEREA SMARTCORE) |
ARGUS G2: 3 ml/2 ml DRAG S2: 5 ml/2 ml DORIC Galaxy: 2 ml VINCI POD SE: 2 ml |
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Number of Puffs per Pod |
~14 puffs from each compatible tobacco stick |
DRAG S2: 180 |
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Charging Time |
90-120 minutes (can vary for different product ranges) |
VINCI MOD POD: 1.5 hours |
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Safety Features |
Heat-not-burn technology, LED indicator, auto-shutoff, and age verification at purchase |
Overtime protection, short circuit protection, overcharge protection, output overcurrent protection, low battery protection, over temperature protection, max power 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) |
ARGUS P2: $34.99 DRAG S2: $47.99 DORIC Galaxy: $49.99 VINCI POD SE: $16.99 |
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Customer Support and Warranty |
1 year |
90 days |
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 ARGUS and DRAG devices by VOOPOO feature the classic combination of metal and leather. Whereas products from the V and VINCI lineup mostly come in pastel colors with a metallic finish. Most gadgets have button controls and an OLED screen indicating the battery life, puff time, and other details.
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).
VOOPOO gadgets like ARGUS PRO 2 and DRAG E60 stand out with their hefty battery capacities (3000 mAh and 2550 mAh respectively), ensuring prolonged vaping sessions. However, DRAG NANO 2 and VINCI POD SE, with their smaller capacities, might leave you reaching for the charger sooner than preferred. Similarly, the DORIC Galaxy's pen struggles with a modest 500 mAh battery.
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.
VOOPOO DRAG S2's 2500 mAh battery offers a solid foundation for longevity. However, its puff count of 180 is definitely a limiting factor for heavy users seeking all-day vaping without interruptions. The inclusion of dual 18650 external batteries in models like ARGUS GT and DRAG H80S offers you the flexibility to swap batteries on the go and enjoy extended sessions.
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.
VOOPOO doesn't have its own brand of flavored vape juices. Instead, you'll need to look for e-liquids from other brands, whether you're into fruity or tobacco flavors, based on your preference.
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.
All VOOPOO devices are equipped with the GENE chip – an innovation that ensures longer vaping time, maximum power output, and a customizable vaping experience. It also offers smart functions for temperature control and corrosion-resistance thereby extending the device’s lifespan.
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.
VOOPOO products come with health risks, including nicotine addiction and exposure to diacetyl, vitamin E acetate, and other harmful substances. That said, the brand provides nicotine-free options for those looking for a less risky vaping experience.
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 March 2021, the FDA scrutinized VOOPOO's marketing tactics, particularly their social media presence and how they target younger audiences with ads. The agency requested information on the brand's approach to social media advertising, including their content, spending details, and strategies to prevent minors from viewing their ads, among other aspects.
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.
VOOPOO offers a range of nicotine delivery options, with capacities from 2 ml to as high as 6.5 ml in VINCI X2. You can select the nicotine level that best suits your needs, from lighter experiences with devices like DRAG NANO 2 and DORIC Galaxy to more intense sessions with VINCI X2 and ARGUS PRO 2.
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.
VOOPOO offers refillable pod systems, allowing you to fill them with any e-liquid of your choice. However, their PnP (Push and Pull) pods are only compatible with PnP coils and their TPP (Tank Pod Push) pods can only be used with TPP coils.
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.
VOOPOO products are available in retail shops and online in several countries, including the US, UK, Brazil, Canada, Switzerland, Germany, and more. However, local laws and restrictions may affect the availability and delivery of vaping products to certain areas.
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.
Many vapers will find VOOPOO's pricing to be on the premium side, especially next to brands with rechargeables under $10-$15. Their most budget-friendly option like VINCI POD SE is priced at $16.99. The DRAG devices like S2 and H80S, priced at $47.99 and $48.99 respectively, offer robust features that rivals more expensive brands. If budget is a concern then VOOPOO may not be a suitable option for you. That said, the additional cost associated with VOOPOO devices can be attributed to their higher build quality and innovative design that are often absent in cheaper alternatives.
Pros and Cons of IQOS and VOOPOO
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 VOOPOO |
Cons of VOOPOO |
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In short, both IQOS and VOOPOO stand out in the vaping market with their unique strengths and offerings.
However, both IQOS and VOOPOO 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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