While the Puff Bar is among many disposable e-cigarettes, it has become known due to its focus on simplicity, portability and a wide range of available flavors. In this review, we will detail our experiences with the Puff Bar disposable pod including details on the device itself, how well the device performs, battery life, and general recommendations for new users.
Puff Bar Intro and Specs
The Puff Bar is a complete disposable pod system, pre-charged and pre-filled, designed for the ultimate in convenience. No need to assemble, charge or fill the device; simply pull it out of the package and start using it. The Puff Bar uses a draw-activated firing method; that means the device creates vapor the moment you begin to inhale, with no buttons to press.
According to the manufacturer, the standard Puff Bar Disposable Pod contains a 280 mAh internal battery and comes pre-filled with 1.3 ml of 5% (50 mg) nicotine salt e-liquid. Based upon estimates from the manufacturer, each device should deliver approximately 200 to 300 puffs. For those interested in a long-lasting option, Puff Bar offers a plus version of the device with larger e-liquid capacity and increased battery life.
Size, Look, and Feel
In addition to a compact size and ability to fit in the palm of your hand, the Puff Bar is a slim, sleek device that fits easily in a pocket or purse. A simple, rectangular shape defines the body of the device. One end of the device includes a soft, small-sized mouthpiece that feels comfortable to hold against the lips. The device is usually covered with a matte or textured surface giving the user a good grip.
For many, the aesthetic of the device is as much of the overall experience as the actual flavor and functionality of the device. The company has a wide selection of colorfully designed boxes representing the flavors available in the market. Each box displays a unique graphic, making it easy to see the specific flavor of your favorite taste at a glance.
How to Turn On/Off & Basic Functions
Another large advantage of the Puff Bar is the simplicity of its design. The device has NO ON/OFF switch.
- To Turn On: There isn't a power switch; the device is in stand-by mode at all times. As soon as you place the mouthpiece in your lips and inhale, the device fires the coil because of the draw-activated firing sensor.
- To Turn Off: You won't ever need to do this. Because the Puff Bar is draw-activated and a single-use device, you have no control over the device while in use. When the device is not in use, it sits idle. Once either the e-liquid is depleted or the battery runs out, you discard the entire device in a responsible manner.
How Does It Hit?
The vaping experience with the Puff Bar is defined by a very smooth and very consistent mouth-to-lung (MTL) draw. This MTL draw is similar to the feel of taking a draw off a tobacco cigarette. The draw is tight and pleasing, and delivers a strong nicotine hit from the 5% nicotine salts without burning the back of the throat.
As far as vapor production, I would say it was sufficient enough to satisfy my needs, but not so abundant that it would create large, show-stopping clouds, as per the devices compact nature. Airflow is fixed, and the flavor hits you immediately from the very first draw.
Are the Flavors Any Good?
Arguably the biggest strength of the Puff Bar is the number of flavors offered. With such a large variety of flavors, covering almost every type imaginable, Puff Bar truly has something for everyone. While my personal experience and the majority of the feedback I've received from others suggest that the flavors are all high-quality, even considering the low price point of the device, the flavor profiles are typically strong and sweet, accurately portraying the description of the flavor.
Because the e-liquid used in the Puff Bar is made with nicotine salts, a higher amount of nicotine can be added without negatively affecting the flavor of the e-liquid.
Which Puff Bar Flavors Are the Most Popular?
Again, choosing the best flavor is strictly subjective, however, based on sales data, reviews from experts and popularity from the community, there are several flavors that seem to be the most popular. Below is a list of the top flavor categories along with recommended flavors within each category, and notes on what makes these flavors unique.
How Long Do They Last?
As stated previously, the longevity of a disposable e-cigarette is directly tied to both the battery life and the e-liquid capacity. According to the manufacturer, the standard Puff Bar (1.3 mL, 280 mAh) should last approximately 200-300 puffs. In reality, depending on the frequency of use, this could mean anywhere from 1-2 days of moderate use for an average user.
Heavy users may find that their device doesn't last as long as a full day. For heavy users or anyone looking for an extended period of use, the Puff Bar Plus or Plus XL versions of the device would be a better choice, as they offer larger e-liquid and battery capacities (e.g. some Plus versions have a 550 mAh battery and 3.5 mL of e-liquid). Keep in mind that when the battery or e-liquid is depleted, you're supposed to discard the entire device.
Puff Bar LED Light Meaning
Standard Puff Bar Disposable Pods do NOT have an LED light indicator. Like the rest of the device, the Puff Bar is designed to be totally button-less and light-free. You will know the device is operating properly when you inhale and vapor is produced. You will know it's time to replace the device when it no longer produces vapor, regardless of whether the battery is charged (indicates empty e-liquid) or if it won't operate at all (dead battery).
Note: Some newer or different models in the Puff Bar line (and possibly from other companies like Geek Bar) may have a small LED to indicate use or battery condition. However, as reviewed above, the original model does not.
Conclusion
The Puff Bar is a huge success in providing the ultimate in a hassle free and flavorful nicotine experience with no maintenance. The benefits of the Puff Bar lie in its small size, the extremely user friendly draw activation and the numerous and varied flavors it offers. The main drawback to the Puff Bar is the continued expense and disposal of the device. As a disposable e-cigarette, it can not be recharged or re-filled.
Important Note: Be sure to buy from a reputable dealer to avoid counterfeit products, which are becoming increasingly prevalent with brands like Puff Bar.