SMOK has been a well-known name in the vaping industry since 2010, recognised for its innovative hardware, powerful sub-ohm devices and extensive range of refillable pod kits.
From compact Novo and Arco kits to more advanced Nord devices, the brand caters to MTL (mouth-to-lung), RDTL (restricted direct-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping styles. With features such as adjustable wattage, airflow controls, digital displays and multiple power modes across selected devices, SMOK offers options for both beginners and experienced vapers. This guide explores SMOK's background, what makes its vape ranges different and which devices suit different vaping styles.
Who are SMOK?
SMOK was founded in 2010 and is the main brand of Shenzhen IVPS Technology Co. Ltd., a Chinese manufacturer based in Shenzhen. The brand excels in research and development, as well as the creation and global sale of vaping products.
SMOK has continued to grow since its initial arrival by consistently ensuring that its products meet the current demands of the market and its users.
The brand originally became known for its high-powered sub-ohm devices, including its TFV tank series, before expanding into compact refillable pod kits such as the Novo and Nord ranges.
What is SMOK known for?
SMOK made a name for itself with innovative vape kits with features such as dual-coil variable-wattage modes and adjustable battery configurations. At the time, these innovations gave you greater control over power, flavour output and vapour production.
Devices such as the SMOK Alien 220W brought high-powered box mods with advanced features to the vaping market.
As the market changed, pod kits became increasingly sought after. SMOK responded by launching its own compact pod kit ranges: Novo and Nord. The brand then took this a step further by releasing its RPM series, which features adjustable wattage, digital displays and replaceable coils.
The brand has continued to refine its devices with better displays, battery monitoring, adjustable airflow and improved coil technology. Across a range of devices, SMOK combines manual wattage control with automatic power adjustment, putting control in the user’s hands.
How Do SMOK's Vape Ranges Differ?
SMOK originally became known primarily for its sub-ohm products. However, the brand has since expanded its range to include refillable pod kits, replacement pods and coils.
SMOK Novo Series
SMOK’s Novo device range offers compact, lightweight refillable pod kits for everyday use.
SMOK Novo 6 Pod Kit - One of the more efficient Novo models, featuring a 1700mAh battery, 5-40W output, and adjustable airflow control. The compatible Novo 5 pods enable users to switch between a more restricted MTL (mouth-to-lung) draw and a more open, airy RDTL draw. Most Novo kits aren't intended for higher-powered DTL vaping.
SMOK Arco Series
The SMOK Arco E1 Pod Kit is a straightforward refillable pod kit that powers from 5-30W and features a 1300mAh battery, adjustable airflow control, inhale activation and Smart mode.
The SMOK Arco Digi Pod Kit is a more advanced version of the E1, now with a digital display. Both devices support MTL and RDTL vaping.
Arco pods feature built-in coils, so the entire pod must be replaced when the coil wears out.
SMOK Nord Series
SMOK has not abandoned the DTL vaping style that originally helped establish the brand. It still offers DTL (direct-to-lung) options for experienced users with its Nord series
SMOK Nord 6 Pod Kit - The latest Nord model, with a 3800mAh battery, an adjustable 5-80W output, a 1.65-inch touchscreen and three power modes; it is also compatible with RPM 3 coils and has an adjustable airflow control for MTL, RDTL and DTL vaping.
These kits tend to be bulkier than compact Novo or Arco devices.
SMOK TFOS Series
SMOK TFOS Pod Kit - The TFOS features a 1700mAh battery, an adjustable airflow control, dual power modes and a large 1.86-inch display. It is also compatible with 0.6Ω and 0.8Ω TFOS pods, allowing it to support both MTL and RDTL styles.
Which SMOK range suits your vaping style?
The right SMOK vape kit depends on how you prefer to vape, from a tighter, discreet draw to a more powerful, airy inhale. The Novo, Arco and Nord ranges cater to different preferences, with varying levels of airflow control, power and customisation. Here's how they compare.
Each pack contains two 1ml prefilled pods and two 8ml refill containers that automatically replenish the pods with e-liquid. The pods connect magnetically to the device and offer two flavours that can be switched between by rotating the Click S 30K mouthpiece. They are also compatible with the Click 10K and Click 50K, although the twist-to-switch feature is exclusive to the Click S 30K device.
Not sure which inhale style suits you? Explore our guide to MTL, RDTL and DTL vaping to understand the differences.
Your choice of e-liquid matters too. Lower-powered MTL devices are commonly paired with nicotine salt e-liquids, while higher-powered DTL kits are generally better suited to high-VG e-liquids. Always check your device and coil compatibility before choosing an e-liquid.
Final Thoughts on SMOK
SMOK has remained a well-known brand among vapers in the UK and internationally as it has continued to manufacture vape devices that cater to different vaping styles and levels of experience. From compact, straightforward Novo and Arco pod kits to more powerful Nord devices, the brand delivers options for MTL (mouth-to-lung), RDTL (restricted direct-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping.
Not only does SMOK offer a varied array of vape kits, but it also sells an extensive range of pods and coils, allowing vapers to maintain their devices and choose from different resistances and vaping styles. SMOK caters to both beginners and advanced vapers who are looking for a device that offers greater control.