As far as closed pod systems go, few are as popular as STLTH and JUUL. Despite being relative newcomers to the vaping industry, closed pod systems have grown in popularity among both new and experienced vapers. While there are plenty of closed pod devices on the market, STLTH and JUUL are often cited as industry leaders, due in part to their portability, ease of use, flavour options, and overall construction. That being said, for many new vapers, the decision between the two devices can be somewhat difficult, especially considering they function in similar ways. Thankfully, we’ve created this helpful article that breaks down both devices and compared the two as daily driver devices.
STLTH
Designed in Canada, STLTH is a compact closed pod system that is fairly similar to the JUUL. Developed by former smokers, the STLTH vape kit was created to serve as an alternative to traditional tobacco that is easy to use and affordable.
Sleek and quite compact, the STLTH can easily be stowed in a pocket or small bag, while still being very comfortable to hold and use. The device is currently available in four different colours, including black, blue, gunmetal, and pink. All of these colours are applied with a distinct matte finish, giving the STLTH a unique appearance and distinct textured feel.
Internally, the STLTH utilizes a 420mAh battery, which should last the average user for a day or
slightly longer. Like the JUUL, the STLTH is draw-activated, meaning users simply need to inhale off the mouthpiece to fire the device. The STLTH uses a standard micro USB charging port and can be charged either through a computer USB port or charging brick with USB support.
The pods for the STLTH come pre-filled by the manufacturer and there are currently 10 flavours available on the market;
- Crisp Apple
- Tobacco Blend
- Tundra Berry
- Honeydew Menthol
- Berry Blast
- Mango
- Frost
- Blue Raspberry
- Flavourless
- Strawberry
The pods themselves have a 2mL capacity and the e-liquid is nicotine salt-based. The pod should last users 2-5 days, though this is dependant on how often you are using your STLTH device. Like with JUUL pods, STLTH pods do need to be disposed of once they are empty and cannot be refilled by the user. Replacement packs for the STLTH include three pods.
JUUL
In many ways, JUUL was the catalyst for the popularization of closed pod systems. Its minimalist design, basic operation, and range of flavours helped popularize the device among vapers. Internally, the JUUL utilizes a 200mAh battery, draw activation, and a proprietary charging system. While the internal features may not seem impressive when compared to larger variable wattage devices, they allow new vapers to easily grasp the concept of vaping in an intuitive way.
As a closed pod device, the JUUL’s pods come prefilled by the manufacturer and are not meant to be refilled by the user. At the time of writing, JUUL Canada offers six flavours; Mint, Fruit, Mango, Cucumber, Vanilla, Golden Tobacco, and Virginia Tobacco. The e-liquid used in the pods is salt nicotine-based and the flavours are available in 5%, 3%, and 1% nicotine strength.
The pods themselves hold 0.7mL of e-liquid and they must be disposed of once they are empty. While it’s impossible to accurately estimate how long each pod will last, users should expect their JUUL pods to last for 200 puffs. A replacement pack will have four pods, which can only be used with the JUUL device.
It should be noted that the JUUL does use a proprietary charger that magnetically connects to the bottom of the JUUL. The charger itself connect to a USB port, whether that be on a computer or charging brick. A small LED light on the JUUL device will showcase the remaining battery life on the JUUL.
The Verdict
As we mentioned before, choosing between the STLTH and JUUL can be somewhat difficult, due mainly in part to their similarities. Both devices are meant to be daily drivers, while also appealing to new vapers who may want an easy-to-use device. That being said, there are some differences that may factor into a person’s decision on which device to buy.
In terms of construction and design, both devices are constructed entirely from metal and feature plastic pods. That being said, the JUUL is thinner and shorter than the STLTH, allowing for it to be used in a more discrete way. While it is slightly taller and thicker, the STLTH does come in a variety of different colours and the matte texture gives the device a sense of security in the hand.
While the STLTH is slightly taller and larger than the JUUL, it does house a much larger battery, (double the JUUL’s capacity) and the pods hold more e-liquid, 2mL vs 0.7mL. This makes the STLTH a compelling option for vapers who find themselves out a lot, so long as they don’t mind the slightly larger silhouette.
Ultimately, your choice between the two devices will depend on what you’re looking for in an e-cigarette. If you are more concerned about portability and are willing to sacrifice battery capacity and flavour options, the JUUL may be the way to go. However, if you think you may need the larger battery and wider pod selection, the size of the STLTH may not be so much of an issue. Both devices are great in their own respective ways and should serve the majority of vapers in an effective way.