Monday, 22 June 2020

*HARDWARE REVIEW* DotAIO by DotMod


AIOs are becoming a dime a dozen in the vape world right now, and you gotta know where to look, or else you'll become completely befuddled by the insane amount of cheap, poor quality devices that are out there.
The big OG, the Billet Box, the one that's like gold dust, maybe even trickier to procure, is pretty much where it all started in terms of true AIOs (not pod systems)

Being a big fan of the Billet Box, I was a little hesitant to make the leap and purchase my first DotAIO. Especially as it had been colloquially and rather boldly hailed as the 'Billet Box Killer'. But boy, despite my initial doubts, I gave it a go! And for me, I feel that the DotAIO has completely obliterated the Billet Box!

DotMod have steadily gained a reputation as a company that takes the time to perfect a device before launching.
In terms of vaping creations, DotMod has hit the nail on the head every time. The incredible feeling of quality is overwhelmingly obvious, and you can be sure to notice the simple yet elegant finish to each and every device.
With the sheer level of quality and craftsmanship, DotMod set-ups are a little on the pricey side, but, in my starstruck eyes, they are certainly worth every penny.

I am lucky enough to own a couple DotMod devices, including the uber-popular DotAIO, of which I will be reviewing today.
My reviews have been, and will always be my own personal opinion. But I think everyone should love the DotAIO >.<

This kit measures in at just 78mm*43mm*22.5mm, a relatively average size for most AIOs. It takes a single 18650 to run (always practice battery safety!), offers quick charge via USB-C and has 4 power settings.
The cost of this device runs from about £60 with limited releases going as high as the £250+ mark.
When it comes to aesthetics, the DotAIO blows it out of the water! The colours and finishes that DotMod have created definitely give this device an air of luxury. It comes in a plethora of stunning colours, and a few limited edition colours too! Some of the more popular colours are matte black, red, gold, royal blue and Tiffany Blue. Depending on where you look, there will be a choice for everyone.
The majority of DotAIOs have subtle gold accents on the buttons and a DotMod logo.
This kit features removable panels that are usually held in place by small magnets, allowing users to clean or swap panels to different colours and materials, opening a world of endless customisations.

The DotAIO maintains a sense of refinement and satisfaction when held. The size of the device is rather smaller than the Billet Box, but this serves as a bonus for me, as I prefer the more delicate and dainty stature of the DotAIO.
One gripe I have with the ergonomics of this kit is that it is rather boxy. There is a slight ( and I mean slight) curve on the top and bottom. The rest has sharp lines and edges that I feel takes away from the overall look and feel to this mod.

In stark contrast with the Billet Box, and many other AIOs, the DotAIO does NOT have a display screen. DotMod has taken simplicity to a whole new level, and only requires users to choose from 4 power strengths; very soft, soft, medium and strong. This is done by pressing a small button near the bottom of the device, beneath the fire button. With no screen to display info on, the fire button has a backlight that will show different colours and combinations to indicate battery level, power level, errors and dry burn protection.

The TPD compliant tank holds 2ml of eliquid and has a pretty standard adjustable airflow ring. I really like how easy it is to remove, especially in comparison to the Boro tanks in Billet Boxes that require you to unscrew the drip tip ring.

The drip tips that you receive in the box offer vapers a fairly diverse choice. The first one (that will be installed in the device as standard) is a curved, almost tapered shape and is a gorgeous, shiny gold. This tip allows an airier inhale and for me, it was ideal for a true DTL.
The second drip tip is far narrower and crafted out of ultem, therefore a similar colour scheme as the gold accents on the DotAIO. This tip is perfect for restricted DTL, and gives a warmer inhale.
The DotAIO works with a selection of stock coils, including both DotMod and Aspire Nautilus coils (you will need the adapter that comes with the device to use Aspire coils) Flavour very much depends on what coils you are using, but I found that the DotMod 0.3 coils produced the most satisfying and flavoursome hit. There are also several RBA options, including my personal favourite, the Atmizoo DotShell.
The DotShell really makes this device stand above the crowd, and I will aim to get a review of it up shortly.

It goes without saying, that the DotAIO can handle pretty much any eliquid that is thrown in there. My preference would be 20mg/ml 50/50 nic salts, but there's nothing stopping you from putting high VG, low nic eliquids in there (although I'd recommend using an RBA deck for thicker liquids)

Battery life is decent, and a full charge lasts me about a day of moderate usage.


PROS
High quality construction
Lots of options for coils
Easy to customise
Easy to remove the tank/pod
Simple design

CONS
A little on the expensive side
I would like to have a display screen

Overall, I would highly recommend this kit. Admittedly, it is a little pricey, but I feel it's far more worth it to purchase one decent AIO rather than a bunch of poor quality, poor performance devices.

peace xx