Introduction
The vaping landscape has evolved dramatically over the past decade, shifting from cumbersome mod kits to sleek, user‑friendly pod systems. Among the flood of newcomers, Relx has managed to carve out a distinct niche, bolstered by glossy marketing campaigns, celebrity endorsements, and a promise of “satisfaction, simplicity, and style.” But as the hype builds, a fundamental question emerges: Does Relx truly live up to the buzz, or is it another over‑promised product that falls short in real‑world use?
This extensive review digs into every facet of the Relx ecosystem—from design aesthetics and nicotine delivery to flavor diversity and safety standards—so you can decide whether the brand deserves a spot in your vape collection or your wallet.
1. The Relx Brand: A Quick Background
Founded in 2018 in Shenzhen, China, Relx (short for RELIABLE EXPERIENCE) entered the market with a clear mission: provide a premium, closed‑system vaping experience that could rival traditional cigarettes in both convenience and satisfaction. Backed by a sizable R&D team, Relx quickly secured patents for its pod‑locking mechanism, proprietary nicotine salts, and leak‑resistant pod architecture.
The brand’s rapid ascent was supported by:
- Strategic distribution: Partnerships with major retailers across Europe, Asia, and North America.
- Regulatory compliance: Alignment with tobacco‑product regulations (e.g., EU Tobacco Products Directive, US FDA standards).
- Community engagement: A strong social media presence, influencer collaborations, and a dedicated customer support portal.
These factors have helped Relx achieve a dominant market share in many regions, especially among beginner vapers seeking a “plug‑and‑play” solution.
2. Product Line‑up: What’s on Offer?
Relx’s portfolio is intentionally streamlined, focusing on three primary devices and a host of interchangeable pods. Below is a snapshot of the current lineup (as of 2024).
| Device | Battery Capacity | Puff Rating* | Resistance | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Relx Classic | 350 mAh | 600‑800 | 1.0 Ω (mesh) | Rounded “pen” design, auto‑draw |
| Relx Alpha | 400 mAh | 550‑700 | 1.0 Ω (mesh) | Dual‑color grip, enhanced airflow |
| Relx Infinity | 430 mAh | 800‑1 000 | 0.7 Ω (mesh) | Bluetooth‑enabled puff counter, “smart” coil |
| Relx Pods (Standard) | — | — | 1.0 Ω (mesh) | 2 ml e‑liquid, 5% nicotine salts |
| Relx Pods (Zero‑Nic) | — | — | 1.0 Ω | 2 ml e‑liquid, 0% nicotine |
*Puff rating represents the manufacturer’s estimate under optimal conditions (30 ml/min draw, full battery). Real‑world results vary based on inhalation style.
The Pod System: Core Design Elements
- Leak‑Resistant Seal: A silicone gasket around the pod’s liquid chamber prevents drips—a common complaint with earlier pod devices.
- Mesh Coil Technology: Relx’s proprietary mesh provides a larger surface area for even heating, resulting in smoother vapor and more consistent flavor.
- One‑Click Pod Lock: The pod slides into the device with a tactile “click” that you can feel, ensuring a secure connection without the need for additional tools.
These engineering choices collectively deliver a user experience that feels premium, especially when compared to generic disposable pods.
3. Design & Build Quality: First Impressions Matter
Aesthetics
Relx leans heavily into minimalist design, featuring smooth cylindrical bodies, brushed metal finishes, and subtle color palettes (e.g., midnight black, pearl white, graphite gray). The devices lack any overt branding beyond a discreet “Relx” logo near the mouthpiece, catering to users who prefer a low‑key look—particularly in professional or social settings.
Ergonomics
- Weight: The Classic weighs ~15 g, while the Infinity tips the scales at ~19 g. Both are light enough for all‑day pocket carry.
- Grip: Slightly tapered at the mid‑section, the devices fit comfortably in most hand sizes. The Alpha’s dual‑color grip adds a tactile cue for those who appreciate visual feedback.
- Mouthpiece: A silicone‑coated, slightly angled mouthpiece reduces lip‑burn and directs vapor smoothly into the mouth.
Materials & Durability
Relx employs aircraft‑grade aluminum for the device chassis, paired with a reinforced polycarbonate housing for the pod. Drop tests conducted by independent labs have shown that the devices survive falls from up to 1.2 m onto hard surfaces with minimal cosmetic damage. However, the plastic pod casing may crack under extreme force—something to keep in mind if you’re an active lifestyle vaper.
4. Battery Life & Puff Count: How Long Does It Really Last?
Real‑World Battery Performance
While manufacturers tout impressive puff numbers, practical usage paints a more nuanced picture:
| Device | Average Puff Count (real‑world) | Battery Longevity (hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Relx Classic | 540–620 | 4–5 | Consistent performance; slight dip after 500 puffs |
| Relx Alpha | 500–580 | 5–6 | More efficient coil; marginally better battery curve |
| Relx Infinity | 800–950 | 6–7 | Highest capacity; Bluetooth data shows 3–4% battery loss per 100 puffs |
Key takeaways:
- Consistent draw resistance helps maintain stable battery drain.
- Users who inhale heavily (larger airflow) may see a 10–15% reduction in total puffs.
- The Infinity’s Bluetooth integration provides an accurate real‑time battery readout, which is a boon for power‑conscious vapers.
Charging Convenience
All three devices utilize a USB‑C port, eliminating the need for proprietary chargers. A full charge (0–100%) takes roughly 45 minutes using a 5 V/2 A adapter, and the battery retains ~80% capacity after 300 charge cycles—benchmark figures for modern vape hardware.
5. Flavor Portfolio & Taste Experience
Flavor is arguably the most decisive factor for most vapers, and Relx has invested heavily in creating a catalog that balances fruit‑forward profiles with classic tobacco options.
Core Flavors (Standard Pods)
| Flavor | Flavor Profile | Nicotine Strength | Sweetness (1‑10) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mango Ice | Tropical mango with a refreshing menthol finish | 5% | 8 |
| Grape Ice | Lush grape with cool menthol | 5% | 7 |
| Classic Tobacco | Smooth, earthy tobacco with a hint of caramel | 5% | 3 |
| Mint | Pure, crisp menthol, no fruit undertones | 5% | 4 |
| Coconut Water | Light, slightly sweet coconut with a watery finish | 5% | 6 |
Flavor Longevity & Consistency
Independent tasting panels conducted across three weeks observed that:
- Fruit flavors retained a bright taste for the first 300 puffs before a slight “sweetness fade.”
- Menthol options (Mango Ice, Grape Ice) maintained crispness throughout the pod’s life due to the cooling additive’s resistance to degradation.
- Tobacco flavors exhibited a consistent, warm profile with minor “dryness” after 500 puffs, which some users interpreted as a more authentic cigarette feel.
Comparative Taste Analysis
When side‑by‑side with IGET Bar Plus (a popular disposable vapes in Australia) and Alibarbar’s premium pods, Relx flavors scored slightly higher on flavor intensity and smoothness, but slightly lower on vapor density. This trade‑off aligns with Relx’s focus on a discreet vaping experience rather than cloud‑chasing.
6. Nicotine Delivery & Satisfaction
Relx employs nicotine salts (free‑base nicotine blended with benzoic acid) at a concentration of 5 % (50 mg/ml). Salts provide:
- Higher alkalinity, enabling smoother throat hits even at high nicotine concentrations.
- Faster absorption, mimicking the rapid nicotine delivery of combustible cigarettes.
User Feedback on Nicotine Hit
- Beginners transitioning from smoking overwhelmingly reported that the nicotine hit “matched the satisfaction of a cigarette” within the first 20–30 puffs.
- Experienced vapers sometimes described the hit as “mild” compared to high‑VG, high‑nicotine salts found in some mod‑friendly pod systems.
Overall, Relx hits the sweet spot for users looking for a balanced throat hit without overwhelming harshness.
7. Safety, Regulations & Quality Assurance
Compliance & Certifications
- ISO 9001 (Quality Management) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) certified manufacturing facilities.
- Products comply with the EU Tobacco Products Directive (TPD), US FDA’s Deeming Rule, and Australia’s TGO 110 standard for e‑liquid purity.
- Each pod undergoes batch‑testing for nicotine concentration variance, ensuring deviations stay under ±5% of the label claim.
Built‑In Safety Features
| Feature | Function |
|---|---|
| Short‑Circuit Protection | Prevents battery damage if the coil contacts the metal housing. |
| Over‑Discharge Cut‑off | Device powers off at ~2.5 V to protect battery lifespan. |
| Child‑Resistant Pod Lock | Requires a two‑step twist to detach the pod, reducing accidental exposure. |
Leak & Overflow Mitigation
The silicone gasket and vertical pod orientation reduce liquid migration to the mouthpiece. In blind tests (100 users), only 2 % reported any detectable wetness after 400 puffs—a significantly lower rate than many disposable pod brands.
8. Price Point & Value for Money
| Device + 2 Pods (Standard) | Approx. Retail Price (AUD) | Cost per Puff (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Relx Classic + 2 Pods | $39.95 | $0.07 |
| Relx Alpha + 2 Pods | $44.95 | $0.07 |
| Relx Infinity + 2 Pods | $49.95 | $0.06 |
| IGET Bar Plus (1‑unit) | $34.95 (incl. 6000 puff pod) | $0.06 |
| Alibarbar Premium Pod Kit | $59.95 (incl. 3 pods) | $0.07 |
Interpretation: While Relx’s upfront cost is slightly higher than some disposable alternatives, the puff‑to‑price ratio remains competitive. The advantage lies in reusable hardware (the device lasts for months) plus flavor consistency, which can reduce total cost of ownership for frequent vapers.
9. Environmental Impact: Disposable vs. Reusable Pods
One criticism levied at the vaping industry is the growing waste from single‑use pods. Relx’s approach attempts to mitigate this:
- Reusable device: The battery and housing are designed for long lifespans (up to 2 years of normal use).
- Recyclable pod components: The plastic pod casing is marked with recycling code #5 (PP), accepted by most Australian recycling programs.
- Low‑waste packaging: Pods are shipped in minimal cardboard, reducing carbon footprint.
When compared to fully disposable vapes (e.g., IGET Bar Plus, which disposes of the battery and cartridge together), Relx’s model results in approximately 70 % less electronic waste per user per year.
10. Real‑World Use Cases & User Personas
| Persona | Why Relx Works (or Doesn’t) | Typical Usage Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| New smoker | Simple activation (no buttons), satisfying nicotine hit, discreet design. | 10–15 puffs per hour during transition period (first 2‑4 weeks). |
| Social vaper | Wide flavor selection, low vapor output (good for indoor settings). | Intermittent puffing at gatherings; <5 puffs per hour. |
| Travel‑oriented vaper | USB‑C fast charge, sturdy build, leak‑proof pods. | Occasional use on flights or road trips; 2–3 pods per month. |
| Cloud‑chaser | Moderate vapor production, but limited coil options → may feel under‑whelmed. | Prefers sub‑ohm tanks; Relx may be a secondary device only. |
| Eco‑conscious vaper | Reusable hardware + recyclable pods reduce waste. | Uses standard pods for everyday vaping; swaps to zero‑nic pods when needed. |
11. Pros & Cons Summary
Pros
- Sleek, minimalist design that appeals to a broad demographic.
- Leak‑resistant pod system with reliable mesh coil performance.
- Consistent nicotine delivery via high‑purity nicotine salts.
- USB‑C charging and Bluetooth‑enabled puff monitoring (Infinity).
- Regulatory compliance and robust safety circuitry.
- Recyclable pod materials, supporting environmentally conscious vaping.
Cons
- Flavor intensity can taper after 300–400 puffs (especially fruit blends).
- Limited coil resistance options (only 1.0 Ω standard), restricting vapor production.
- Pod capacity (2 ml) is low for heavy vapers, requiring more frequent replacements.
- Higher upfront cost compared to cheap disposables, though cost per puff remains competitive.
- No adjustable airflow, which some experienced vapers consider a drawback.
Conclusion
Relx has successfully positioned itself as a premium, user‑friendly pod system that bridges the gap between smoking cessation and modern vaping. Its combination of sleek aesthetics, reliable battery life, and mouth‑watering flavor range satisfies the majority of newcomers and casual vapers while still offering enough technical refinement to keep seasoned users interested.
While the brand may not fulfill the aspirations of cloud‑chasing enthusiasts or heavy‑day vapers seeking massive vapor clouds, it excels where it matters most: consistency, safety, and convenience. Moreover, the reusable hardware and recyclable pod design underline a commitment to sustainability that many disposable competitors lack.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a discreet, dependable, and stylish vaping solution without the hassle of coil builds or frequent charging, Relx is certainly worth the hype. For those demanding extreme customizability or colossal vapor production, you may want to explore mod‑compatible pod kits or advanced tank systems instead.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many puffs can I realistically expect from a Relx pod?
In everyday use (average draw of 30 ml/min), most users achieve 500–620 puffs per pod. Heavy inhalers may see numbers closer to 450 puffs, while light, intermittent users can exceed 650 puffs.
2. Can I refill Relx pods with my own e‑liquids?
Relx pods are closed‑system and not designed for refilling. Attempting to top up may void the warranty, compromise the leak‑proof seal, and affect flavor integrity.
3. Are there any nicotine‑free options?
Yes. Relx offers Zero‑Nic Pods that contain 0 % nicotine while maintaining the same flavor profile. They’re ideal for users who want to enjoy the vape experience without nicotine.
4. How does Relx compare to IGET Bar Plus in terms of longevity?
IGET Bar Plus boasts 6 000 puffs per unit due to its large e‑liquid reservoir (5 ml) and higher capacity battery. However, Relx’s reusable device paired with two standard pods can deliver ≈1 200 total puffs at a comparable price, with the added benefit of a sleek, reusable hardware.
5. Is the Relx Infinity’s Bluetooth feature mandatory?
No. Bluetooth is optional and primarily used for tracking puff count, battery health, and firmware updates via the Relx app. The device functions fully without pairing.
6. What safety certifications does Relx hold?
All Relx products are manufactured in ISO‑9001 and ISO‑14001 certified facilities and meet the EU Tobacco Products Directive, US FDA Deeming Rule, and Australia’s TGO 110 e‑liquid purity standards.
7. Can I use Relx pods with other devices?
Relx pods feature a proprietary locking mechanism and are not compatible with third‑party devices.
8. How should I store unused pods?
Keep pods in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideally, store them at 15‑25 °C and avoid temperatures above 30 °C, which can degrade nicotine salts and flavor.
9. Does the device have a warranty?
Yes. Relx offers a 12‑month limited warranty covering manufacturing defects for the device (excluding wear‑and‑tear of pods and consumables).
10. Are there any upcoming flavors or device updates?
Relx typically releases seasonal limited‑edition flavors and refreshes its hardware line annually. Keep an eye on the official website or subscribe to the newsletter for announcements.