Firefly and Pax are two of the most popular names when it comes to portable vaporizers. The high quality and excellent performance that they offer, make them excellent options for anyone looking for the best vaping experience. Although they are also more expensive than other units available, the price is justified by their advanced technology and impressive vapor quality. While new versions of these vaporizers have been already released (Firefly 2 and Pax 2), the original models are still loved by many users and here we will compare them.
These two vaporizers are highly recommended, but choosing the best option, would depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a vaporizer that is light and easy to carry in your pocket or handbag, the Pax would be the right choice since the Firefly is bigger and heavier. However, the Firefly heats up faster and allows you to enjoy instant vaping sessions. The original models are used by many and there are still some units available online. We will go through the advantages and downsides of these portable vaporizers.
Size
The fact that the Firefly is made of stainless steel, helps to keep the vaporizer cool but it also makes it heavier. It weighs about 8.5 ounces and it is 5.1/2″ long and 2″ wide, meaning that it isn’t exactly pocket friendly. On the other hand, the Pax weighs 3.4 ounces and it is 4.1/8″ long and it has 1.4″ of width. The Pax can be carried in your pocket or handbag without hassle. You may still be able to fit the Firefly in a large pocket, but it isn’t as convenient and portable as the Pax.
Batteries
The Firefly is powered by a replaceable internal high powered lithium-ion battery. The Pax (like other portable units such as the Solo or Ascent), relies on an internal rechargeable battery too, but it can’t be replaced. If you happen to experience problems with the battery and these aren’t covered by the manufacturer warranty, you may end up having to get a new vaporizer. The replaceable battery can help you to save money in the long run and it also gives you the possibility of getting a spare battery that you can bring with you for outdoor activities.
You can change the battery in the Firefly in just a matter of seconds. However, it should be noted that the battery life itself is not exactly impressive. You can get 3 to 4 bowls before the battery is drained and while this is the same amount that the Pax offers, the bowls of the latter have a bigger size. Overall, in terms of battery, the Firefly has an advantage over the Pax due to the fact that you can charge the unit quickly and the batteries can be replaced.
Heating Elements, Chamber and Vapor
With the Pax, you can get more out of 3 or 4 bowls than with the Firefly, because its chamber can hold about .3 grams, while the Firefly chamber only holds about .15 grams. The two vaporizers have chambers that are easy to load and unload and both of them feature magnetic lids that can be removed easily. The heating element in the Firefly has an FDA-foodsafe super-alloy made in the United States.Its heating chamber is made of glass and the vapor path of stainless steel.
While the Pax does well in terms of good vapor quality, the Firefly offers superior vapor quality and it is probably the best portable vaporizer in this category, thanks to its convection built. The Pax features stainless steel oven/chamber, a non-ceramic tuned thin film heater and the vapor path is made of stainless steel. If you prefer long vape sessions, the Pax is ideal due to its large oven.
Cleaning and Maintenance
The Firefly is very easy to clean and you will probably only need to brush out the bowl after a session and clean the window about every 10 sessions. However, the residue can start to build up on the window and along the vapor path so it is important to clean it thoroughly. The Pax has to be cleaned on a regular basis, but the new and improved mouthpiece design helps to reduce the frequency of the cleaning. It is advisable to clean the unit at least every 10 sessions and to perform some maintenance on the mouthpiece every 3 sessions or so. Apart from being easier to clean and maintain, the Firefly has another advantage over the Firefly and it is that it can still be used, even if it is dirty. The Pax will simply stop working.
Conclusion
Although the Firefly takes the lead in many categories, the Pax is also an excellent option. The final decision will depend on your preferences and what you are looking for in a vaporizer. The Pax is ideal for users who prefer long sessions and a vaporizer that is sleek and highly portable. Although it requires more maintenance, it is still a practical choice. If you want the best vapor quality, instant heat and don’t mind having a portable vaporizer that is bigger and heavier, the Firefly would be right for you.