A Small DL Kit That Performs Well.
SMOK has finally released its latest iteration of the nord range: The SMOK nord 5. The nord 5 shares its appearance with the nord 4, although features some much needed improvements. The main difference that I noticed out of the box is that the nord 5 only comes with one pod, taking one type of coil. Coming with a 0.15ohm and 0.23ohm coils, this kit is truly a DL kit (possibly RDL if you use it at 20w), and a great kit it is too. So, let’s get on with the SMOK nord 5 Review.
Appearance
The nord 5 is a stylish looking kit, with a large range of colours that would suit nearly every vaper’s taste. As I’ve already mentioned, this kit bares a striking resemblance to the SMOK nord 4. The main aesthetic differences are the lack of airflow disc that was quite noticeable on the 4. Instead, this has been replaced by a small switch that’s used to adjust the airflow. I think that this is a great change, and really helps the kit look sleek. The fire button and screen are the same, as are the power control buttons.
The coloured designs feature a striking ‘dart’ pattern, which I think looks quite smart. There’s also a leatherette design that looks very professional. The kit features a USB-C fast charge port that’s located on the bottom of the device. Also, the kit features airflow holes on either side of the device.
SMOK nord 5 – Performance
In terms of performance, there wasn’t much to find fault with. The device features an internal 2000mAh battery and can fire from 5 watts up to 80 watts. Although, there isn’t a coil that can really run as low as 5 watts. To test this kit I used the 0.15ohm coil, running at 45 watts.
For my liquid I chose the Norse Vape Peach, Apricot and Raspberry. Mainly because I love this liquid, as you’ll discover in a later review. The flavour was consistent and the reaction of the coils was very responsive. Filling the device was super quick and easy using the fill hole on the side. Since this is a pod device, as with most other pod kits, the fill hole is covered with an easy to remove rubber bung. Something unique to this pod is the coil lock, which is a much needed feature. The amount of times that I have had my coil fly out when dropping a pod is countless. The only drawback to this kit was the battery.
Overall, 2000mAh is a decent enough battery. But vaping on 45 watts I found that it didn’t quite last me all day. However this was remedied by the USB-C fast charge which recharged the device in around 45 minutes.
I love the size of the nord range. For a DL device, it’s quite compact and easy to vape. As it fits nicely in your hand and is comfortable to hold. Also I like where the fire button is located, it lines up naturally under your thumb when holding the device.
Ease Of Use
This kit is extremely easy to use.
It has push fit coils, which lock into place using a coil lock clip on the bottom of the pod. The pod also magnetises into the kit with quite strong magnets
The USB-C fast charge means that charging the device quick and easy.
Also, the improved airflow control makes it incredibly easy to adjust the device to your vaping style.
Price
You can pick up the SMOK nord 5 for £28.49 which is great value for how the device performs. The coils cost £9.99 for a pack of 5, which is a similar price to coils like the GeekVape P and a little cheaper than the VOOPOO TPP and PnP coils. If you’re as clumsy as me then you might need to pick up a spare pod too. The pods come in a pack of 3 for £5.99, which again is great value for money.
Target Audience
This kit is most suitable for DL vapers, with the minimum wattage being 20 watts. Running it at 20 watts and closing the airflow will give a RDL experience. I prefer DL devices running at around 45 watts and I thought this kit vaped great.
Smok Nord 5 – Final Verdict
OK, final thoughts. I thought the SMOK nord 5 was a brilliant device. The new RPM 3 coils vape great, and very consistently. It’s powerful enough to satisfy most DL vapers, although running at a higher wattage is going to drain the battery fast. I love the look of the kit, I think the price is very reasonable and I think it’ll be a great secondary device next to my VOOPOO Argus GT 2.
Sorry OXVA XLIM SE, you’ve been dethroned!
