Design & Quality
The SMOK Novo 4 continues the design legacy of its predecessors with a sleek, compact form factor that is both portable and aesthetically pleasing. Measuring 93.5mm by 26.5mm by 17.7mm and weighing a mere 51.7 grams, this device is engineered for convenience and portability. Its construction features a zinc-alloy chassis, enhancing durability while maintaining a lightweight feel, making it a suitable choice for on-the-go vaping.
Build Quality
SMOK has a reputation for variable quality, but the Novo 4 stands out with its solid construction. Unlike previous models, this device exhibits no creaks or loose panels, indicating a robust build. The zinc-alloy body adds a premium feel, contributing to the overall durability. However, some users have reported that the plastic tops of the pods can break off with excessive force, indicating that while the device itself is sturdy, the pods may require more careful handling.
Design Aesthetics
The Novo 4 maintains the familiar Novo shape and design, a feature that might appeal to long-time fans but may disappoint those looking for a radical redesign. The device is available in a variety of colors and designs, including stabilizing wood, carbon fiber, and armor, catering to a wide range of aesthetic preferences. These design choices appeal to users who prefer both minimalist and bold looks.
Ergonomics
Ergonomically, the Novo 4 is well-designed. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, and the rounded edges ensure a comfortable grip. The signature duck-bill mouthpiece offers a natural and pleasant vaping experience. The addition of an adjustable airflow dial enhances the user experience, allowing for a more personalized vaping session.
Performance
Performance reviews for the Novo 4 are mixed. While some users appreciate the customizable airflow and quality of the draw, others report issues with coil longevity and consistency. Many users find that coils last only a few days to a week, suggesting potential quality control problems. Additionally, some have experienced the auto-draw function failing shortly after purchase, which can be particularly frustrating.
Airflow Control
The adjustable airflow dial is a significant feature of the Novo 4, allowing users to fine-tune their vaping experience. The dial adjusts to provide either a tight MTL draw or a looser draw, depending on the user’s preference. This feature is particularly beneficial for MTL vapers who prefer a controlled and consistent draw. However, some users have found the dial initially stiff, making adjustments difficult without using nails or tools.
Wattage Adjustment
The Novo 4 allows for adjustable wattage between 5W and 25W, offering users control over power output. This feature enables a more personalized vaping experience, with the ability to adjust wattage based on the coil used and desired vapor production. The OLED display provides clear information on wattage settings, facilitating on-the-go adjustments.
Coil Performance
The performance of the coils has been a point of contention among users. While some report excellent flavor and vapor production, others experience issues with coil burnout and inconsistency. The LP1 coils, designed for MTL vaping, deliver a satisfying throat hit and good flavor. However, coil longevity varies, with some users needing to replace them frequently.
User Experience
User feedback on the SMOK Novo 4 is polarized. Long-time SMOK users note improvements over previous models, praising its portability and ease of use. However, new users might find the airflow adjustment dial stiff at first, although it becomes easier to use over time.
Positive Experiences
- u/Garlicbread_Man: “I’ve had my Novo for 4 literal YEARS. I don’t even remember when I bought it. I love how I only need to replace the coils.”
- u/Garlicbread_Man: “Edit still going strong lmfaooooo.”
Negative Experiences
- u/TelevisionKey3891: “I switched to Geek vape Wenax, the same price, but the difference is night and day. SMOK should be ashamed of themselves.”
- u/TheGreatWave00: “Yeah mine is a POS. Worked for 7ish months, then it started continuing to fire after I stopped inhaling. Had to remove the pod every time. Soon after, it began refusing to fire until finicking with the pod 5-6 times.”
Ergonomics and Portability
The Novo 4’s compact size and lightweight design make it highly portable, ideal for users who are always on the go. Its ergonomic shape ensures it fits comfortably in the hand, and the duck-bill mouthpiece provides a pleasant vaping experience. Portability is one of its strongest selling points, making it a favorite among users who value convenience.
Ease of Use
The Novo 4 is designed for simplicity, with easy-to-use controls and a straightforward interface. The OLED display shows battery life, wattage settings, and puff count, making it easy to monitor and adjust settings. The draw-activated firing mechanism adds to its ease of use, allowing users to simply inhale to start vaping.
Durability
While the Novo 4’s build quality is generally good, some users report issues with pod durability. The plastic tops of the pods can break if too much force is applied, and some users experience leakage issues. These problems suggest that while the device itself is durable, the pods may need more careful handling.
Table: User Experience Summary
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Ergonomics | 9/10 |
| Portability | 9/10 |
| Ease of Use | 8/10 |
| Durability | 6/10 |
| Overall User Experience | 8/10 |
Battery Life
Equipped with an 800mAh battery, the Novo 4 offers about a day’s worth of vaping for moderate users, which is adequate considering its size. The inclusion of a Type-C charging port is a welcome feature, providing fast and convenient charging. The device can be fully charged in about 90 minutes, and pass-through charging allows users to vape while the device is plugged in.
Charging Efficiency
The Type-C charging port is a significant upgrade, offering faster charging times compared to older micro-USB ports. The device’s ability to fully charge in 90 minutes is convenient for users who need quick recharges. The pass-through charging feature is also appreciated, allowing users to continue vaping while the device is charging.
Battery Performance
The 800mAh battery provides sufficient power for a full day of moderate use. Heavy vapers may need to recharge more frequently, but for most users, battery life is adequate. The OLED display provides clear battery level information, making it easy to monitor and plan for recharges.
Longevity
Battery longevity is generally good, with most users reporting consistent performance over time. However, some users have experienced battery degradation, particularly with heavy use or improper charging. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s charging guidelines to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Price
The Novo 4 is priced competitively, often found in the range of $20 to $30, making it reasonable for a device with its features and capabilities. This price point makes it accessible to a broad audience, including beginners transitioning from smoking to vaping without a hefty investment.
Value for Money
Considering its features and performance, the Novo 4 offers good value for money. The adjustable airflow, replaceable coils, and Type-C charging port are features typically found in more expensive devices, making the Novo 4 a cost-effective option for budget-conscious users.
Market Comparison
When compared to other devices in the same price range, the Novo 4 holds its own. Devices like the Geekvape Wenax and Vaporesso Xros offer similar features at slightly higher prices. The Novo 4’s competitive pricing makes it an attractive option for users seeking a reliable and affordable vaping device.
Cost of Ownership
While the initial purchase price of the Novo 4 is reasonable, users should consider the ongoing cost of replacing coils and pods. The inconsistency in coil longevity reported by some users could result in higher maintenance costs. It’s important to factor in these costs when evaluating the overall value of the device.
Table: Price Comparison
| Device | Price Range | Features |
|---|---|---|
| SMOK Novo 4 | $20 – $30 | Adjustable airflow, Type-C charging |
| Geekvape Wenax | $25 – $35 | Long battery life, consistent performance |
| Vaporesso Xros | $30 – $40 | High build quality, adjustable airflow |
Verdict
The SMOK Novo 4 strikes a balance between functionality and portability, making it suitable for those who prioritize convenience and moderate vaping needs. While it excels in design and user-friendly features, potential buyers should be aware of mixed reviews regarding coil longevity and auto-draw reliability. Overall, if you seek a stylish, compact, and adjustable MTL vaping device, the Novo 4 could be worth considering. However, users looking for more reliable performance and coil quality might explore other options or newer models from SMOK or alternative brands.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the Novo 4 offers a good mix of style, adjustability, and adequate performance for its price, though it may not satisfy the most demanding users due to some reported inconsistencies. For those who value portability and a customizable draw, the Novo 4 remains a solid choice, but be prepared for potential maintenance issues and varying coil quality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Compact and portable design
- Adjustable airflow for a customizable vaping experience
- Type-C charging for fast and convenient recharges
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Inconsistent coil longevity
- Potential issues with auto-draw functionality
- Durability concerns with the pods