Starbuzz is a name that dominates the hookah world. We wanted to see how that legacy translates into handheld electronic devices. Their approach to the starbuzz vape market is unique. They do not follow the standard pod system trend. They replicate the shisha experience electronically. I wanted to test if this form factor still holds up today.
Our team gathered the core hardware lineup from Starbuzz. We spent weeks using these electronic hookahs in various settings. It was not just about nicotine delivery. It was about the ritual. We tested the E-Hose line and the E-Head system. The goal was to find out if they are practical for daily use. We wanted to see if the flavor intensity matches their tobacco products.
My team brought different perspectives to this testing phase. Marcus pushed the high-output devices to their limits. Jamal tried to see if these large devices could fit a mobile lifestyle. I focused on the build quality and the cartridge system mechanics. We looked past the brand name to judge performance. This review details our honest findings.

Product Overview
| Device | Pros | Cons | Ideal For | Price | Overall Score |
| Starbuzz E-Hose 2.0 | Huge vapor volume, mixes two flavors, premium build. | Very large size, proprietary cartridges needed. | Social vapers and hookah fans. | ~$150 | 4.4 |
| Starbuzz Wireless E-Head 2.0 | High power, fits traditional glass, variable voltage. | Requires a glass rig, not portable. | Home users who own glass. | ~$200 | 4.6 |
| Starbuzz Mini E-Hose | More compact than the original, good flavor. | Still larger than pods, single cartridge only. | Solo users wanting shisha style. | ~$70 | 4.2 |
Testing Team Takeaways
I, Chris Miller, focused heavily on the engineering of these devices. The starbuzz vape hardware feels substantially different from a standard plastic disposable. The E-Hose 2.0 has a weight to it that screams durability. I enjoyed the ability to mix two flavor cartridges in the chamber. It allows for custom blends like Blue Mist mixed with Mint. However, carrying this around was a challenge. The threading on the cartridges is smooth, but the sheer length of the device makes it hard to be discreet. I found myself using it mostly at home. It is not a stealth device. It is a conversation piece.
Marcus Reed approached this from a cloud chaser’s perspective. He loved the Wireless E-Head 2.0. He attached it to his personal glass rig. I cranked the voltage up to see if it could handle chain vaping, and the vapor production was massive. He noted that the airflow mimics a traditional hookah perfectly. It is airy and cool. For him, the throat hit was smooth but substantial due to the volume. He did mention that the battery drains fast at max voltage. He had to recharge it during long evening sessions. He appreciates the lack of charcoal ash.
Jamal Davis had the hardest time adapting these to his on-the-go lifestyle. The Mini E-Hose was his main focus. It fits in my jacket pocket, but it definitely bulges out more than my usual stick vapes. He liked the grab-and-go aspect of the pre-filled cartridges. There is no messy refilling. However, he missed the ability to adjust airflow on the Mini. He found the draw a bit loose for his walking commutes. He also noted that finding replacement cartridges requires planning. You cannot just buy them at any gas station.
Starbuzz Vape Comparison Chart
| Feature | Starbuzz E-Hose 2.0 | Starbuzz Wireless E-Head 2.0 | Starbuzz Mini E-Hose |
| Device Type | Electronic Handheld Hookah | E-Bowl for Glass Rigs | Compact Electronic Hookah |
| Nicotine Options | 0mg, 1.5mg, 3mg (varies by cart) | User choice (Refillable Tank) | 0mg, 1.5mg (varies by cart) |
| Activation | Draw-Activated | Button/Touch Control | Draw-Activated |
| Battery Capacity | ~2200mAh (Internal) | ~2400mAh (Internal) | ~1000mAh (Internal) |
| Coil Type | Integrated in Cartridge | Replaceable Atomizer | Integrated in Cartridge |
| Airflow Style | Open, Airy (DL) | Adjustable (Wide Open) | Semi-Restricted DL |
| Vapor Production | High | Very High | Moderate |
| Flavor System | Dual Cartridge Mixing | 8ml Refillable Tank | Single Cartridge |
| Portability | Low (Very Large) | Very Low (Stationary) | Medium |
| Build Material | Zinc Alloy / Faux Leather | Zinc Alloy / Plastic | Aluminum / Grip Wrap |
What We Tested and How We Tested It
We established a rigorous protocol for these specific devices. We did not treat them like standard pod mods. We evaluated them as electronic shisha replacements. We tested flavor accuracy by comparing them to known shisha tobacco profiles. We checked if "Blue Mist" in vapor form tasted like the tobacco version.
We measured battery life by counting the number of sessions before a recharge. We tracked how the power output drops as the battery fades. We looked for consistency in the draw sensor. A device this size needs a responsive switch. We also tested the "mixability" of the E-Hose 2.0. We inserted contrasting flavors to see if they blended well in the vapor path.
Leak resistance was a major focus. We left cartridges inside the devices overnight. We checked the connection points for condensation. We carried the Mini E-Hose in bags to simulate travel. We assessed the durability of the exterior finishes. We noted how the faux leather handles wear and tear.
Starbuzz Vape Reviews: Our Testing Experience
Starbuzz E-Hose 2.0 Review

Our Testing Experience:
I took the lead on the E-Hose 2.0. This device is a beast. It feels like holding a heavy flashlight or a relay baton. I felt ridiculous using this on the sidewalk, so I kept it for living room sessions. It demands a relaxed setting. I unscrewed the top cap and slid in two cartridges. The threading was clean. The device vibrated when I inhaled. It felt responsive.
Marcus tried it during a gaming session. He liked that he did not have to drip liquid. He just swapped cartridges. The vapor comes out cool, almost cold, which is exactly how I like my hookah hits. He noted the battery lasted him two full days of heavy use. That is impressive. However, Jamal found it too cumbersome. He could not find a place for it in his car console. He said it rolled around too much.
We mixed a mint cartridge with an apple cartridge. The device blended them perfectly. The draw is very loose. It is strictly for direct-lung users. You cannot get a tight cigarette-like draw here. The LED light at the bottom mimics burning coals. It is a nice aesthetic touch.
Draw Experience & Flavors:
We tested this with the classic Starbuzz flavor lineup.
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Blue Mist: This is their signature flavor. It tasted sweet and blueberry-forward with a minty finish. The vapor was thick. It felt heavy on the tongue.
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Pirate’s Cave: This flavor was lime-heavy and grassy. It was very refreshing. The citrus notes were sharp but not chemical. I enjoyed the zestiness on the exhale.
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Sex on the Beach: This was a fruity cocktail blend. It tasted like peach and orange. It was sweeter than the others. It left a sugary aftertaste.
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Code 69: A fruit punch style flavor. It was complex. I tasted tart berry notes mixed with a light citrus. It was very smooth.
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Golden Grape: This tasted like white grape juice. It was very authentic. It did not have that artificial candy grape taste.
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Simply Mint: We used this primarily for mixing. On its own, it is icy. It clears the sinuses.
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Irish Peach: A creamy peach flavor. It was softer than the others. It had a velvety texture in the vapor.
Recommendation: Blue Mist combined with Simply Mint creates the ultimate cooling experience.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Excellent build quality with premium materials. | Extremely large and heavy. |
| Ability to mix two flavors simultaneously. | Proprietary cartridges are expensive. |
| Massive vapor production. | Not discreet in public. |
| Long-lasting battery life. | lengthy charging time. |
| Authentic shisha draw resistance. | No adjustable airflow. |
KEY SPECS & FLAVORS:
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Price: Approx. $150
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Device Type: Electronic Hookah
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Nicotine Strength: 0mg, 1.5mg, 3mg (Cartridge dependent)
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Activation: Draw-Activated
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Battery: 2200mAh Internal
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Charging: AC Adapter (Wall Charger)
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Cartridge Capacity: ~3ml per cartridge (Uses 2)
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Airflow: Fixed (Open/Airy)
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Material: Aluminum and Synthetic Leather
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Flavors: Blue Mist, Code 69, Pirate's Cave, Simply Mint, Golden Grape, Irish Peach, Sex on the Beach, Queen of Sex.
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Flavor | 4.8 | The flavor reproduction of their tobacco line is nearly identical. |
| Throat Hit | 4.0 | Smooth and cool, not harsh, which fits the hookah theme. |
| Vapor Production | 5.0 | It produces massive, dense clouds effortlessly. |
| Airflow/Draw | 4.5 | Perfect for DL users, though lack of adjustment limits versatility. |
| Battery Life | 4.6 | Lasts for days, but requires a specific wall charger. |
| Leak Resistance | 4.7 | The sealed cartridges rarely leak inside the chamber. |
| Build Quality | 4.9 | Feels substantial, durable, and well-machined. |
| Ease of Use | 4.5 | Plug and play system is very intuitive. |
| Portability | 2.5 | It is difficult to transport without a bag. |
| Overall Score | 4.4 | A niche masterpiece for home use. |
Starbuzz Wireless E-Head 2.0 Review

Our Testing Experience:
This device is for the traditionalists. It replaces the ceramic bowl on a glass water pipe. Marcus took lead here. He set it up on his rig. I love that I can control the voltage on the touch screen. It felt futuristic. He filled the tank with his own e-liquid this time. This device allows open-system use. This is a huge advantage.
I watched the vapor fill the glass chamber. It was mesmerizing. The draw depends heavily on your glass rig’s water level. The flavor is pure because it goes through water filtration. However, setting it up takes time. You cannot just grab it and vape. It is a session device.
Jamal found it too complicated. He did not like carrying a glass rig around. He said it defeats the purpose of "vaping" for him. But for a home lounge setup, it is brilliant. We noticed the battery gauge is accurate. The capacitive buttons are responsive. We did experience some condensation under the magnetic tank connection. It requires wiping down after use.
Draw Experience & Flavors:
Since this is refillable, we tested it with Starbuzz e-liquids.
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Queen of Sex: A citrus and tangy fruit blend. Through the water pipe, the citrus mellowed out. It became very smooth.
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Green Savior: An herbal spice flavor. It tasted floral. The water filtration highlighted the spice notes beautifully.
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Tangerine Dream: A straightforward orange flavor. It was zesty. The heat from the coil made it pop.
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Coco Jumbo: A coconut and lime mix. It tasted like a tropical drink. The coconut creaminess came through well.
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Sweet Melon: Very ripe cantaloupe taste. It was sweet but manageable. It smelled amazing in the room.
Recommendation: Green Savior shines in this device due to the water filtration smoothing out the herbal notes.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Works with existing glassware. | Requires external glass equipment. |
| Variable voltage control. | Not portable at all. |
| Large 8ml tank capacity. | Cleaning the tank is tedious. |
| Digital display for stats. | Price point is high. |
| Refillable with any e-liquid. | Occasional condensation issues. |
KEY SPECS & FLAVORS:
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Price: Approx. $200
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Device Type: E-Hookah Bowl Head
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Nicotine Strength: User Choice (Refillable)
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Activation: Button / Control Panel
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Battery: 2400mAh Internal
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Charging: Dedicated Charger
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Tank Capacity: 8ml
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Power: Variable Voltage (3.7V - 6.0V)
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Coil: Replaceable Atomizer
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Flavors: Compatible with all bottled E-liquids (Starbuzz or others).
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Flavor | 4.7 | Water filtration adds a unique smoothness to the flavor. |
| Throat Hit | 4.2 | Adjustable voltage allows for a customized hit. |
| Vapor Production | 5.0 | It rivals high-end box mods in cloud output. |
| Airflow/Draw | 4.8 | Entirely dependent on the glass rig used. |
| Battery Life | 4.0 | High voltage drains the battery relatively fast. |
| Leak Resistance | 4.0 | Minor condensation buildup near the base. |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | Heavy zinc alloy construction feels premium. |
| Ease of Use | 3.5 | Requires setup, cleaning, and external gear. |
| Portability | 1.0 | Strictly a stationary home device. |
| Overall Score | 4.6 | The ultimate bridge between old and new. |
Starbuzz Mini E-Hose Review

Our Testing Experience:
Jamal finally got a device he could carry. The Mini E-Hose is the little brother. It is about half the size of the 2.0. I can actually fit this in my coat pocket without it looking weird. It takes only one cartridge. This means no flavor mixing. I found the draw slightly tighter than the big one. It felt more controlled.
I took it on a lunch break. It produced decent clouds. It was not as room-filling as the 2.0. The flavor intensity was still there. The single cartridge seems to drain faster because it is doing all the work. I had to swap it out after a day and a half.
Marcus missed the dual-cartridge power. He felt the hit was weak compared to the E-Head. He called it "shisha lite." But for a casual user, it works. The finish is grippy. It does not slip out of the hand. We dropped it once on carpet. It survived with no marks. The charging time is shorter than the big unit. That is a plus.
Draw Experience & Flavors:
We used the same cartridge ecosystem.
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Exotic Mist: A variation of Blue Mist. It was sweeter. The mint was subtler.
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Simply Mango: A pure fruit flavor. It tasted like ripe mango slices. It was very juicy.
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White Mint: A spearmint profile. It was sweeter than the peppermint. It left a pleasant tingle on my lips.
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Apple Doppio: A double apple flavor. It had that classic anise note. It tasted like traditional shisha.
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Sweet Apple: A red apple candy taste. It was simple and sugary.
Recommendation: Apple Doppio is the best pick here for a traditional experience on the go.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
| Much more portable than the 2.0. | Cannot mix flavors. |
| Uses the same high-quality cartridges. | Battery life is shorter. |
| Good vapor for its size. | Still larger than modern pods. |
| Affordable entry price. | Charge time is noticeable. |
KEY SPECS & FLAVORS:
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Price: Approx. $70
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Device Type: Compact Electronic Hookah
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Nicotine Strength: 0mg, 1.5mg (Cartridge dependent)
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Activation: Draw-Activated
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Battery: 1000mAh Internal
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Charging: USB Adapter
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Cartridge Capacity: Uses 1 Cartridge
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Airflow: Fixed
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Dimensions: Approx 7 inches tall
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Flavors: Compatible with all Starbuzz E-Hose Cartridges.
Review Score:
| Metric | Score | Remarks |
| Flavor | 4.3 | Good, but lacks the complexity of the dual mix. |
| Throat Hit | 3.8 | Milder than the larger units. |
| Vapor Production | 4.0 | Respectable for a single-cartridge device. |
| Airflow/Draw | 4.0 | Smooth but lacks adjustment options. |
| Battery Life | 3.8 | Good for a day, maybe less with heavy use. |
| Leak Resistance | 4.5 | Solid connection design prevents leaks. |
| Build Quality | 4.5 | Rugged and well-finished. |
| Ease of Use | 4.8 | Very simple to assemble and operate. |
| Portability | 3.8 | Portable for a hookah, large for a vape. |
| Overall Score | 4.2 | Best for solo mobile sessions. |
Compare Performance Scores of These Vapes
| Device | Overall Score | Flavor | Throat Hit | Vapor | Airflow | Battery | Leak Res. | Build | Ease of Use |
| E-Hose 2.0 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 4.5 | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.9 | 4.5 |
| Wireless E-Head | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.2 | 5.0 | 4.8 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 3.5 |
| Mini E-Hose | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 4.0 | 4.0 | 3.8 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.8 |
The numbers tell a clear story. The Wireless E-Head 2.0 wins on raw performance. It offers the most customization and vapor. However, it loses points on ease of use and portability. The E-Hose 2.0 is the balance king. It gives great vapor and flavor but remains somewhat portable. The Mini is the specialist for travel. It sacrifices some power for size. Users must decide if they value clouds or convenience more.
Best Picks
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Best Starbuzz Vape for Social Sessions: Starbuzz E-Hose 2.0
This device dominates the room. Its ability to mix flavors makes it a party favorite. The battery lasts through long group sessions.
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Best Starbuzz Vape for Flavor Purists: Starbuzz Wireless E-Head 2.0
The water filtration combined with variable voltage unlocks hidden flavor notes. It delivers the cleanest taste of the lineup.
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Best Starbuzz Vape for Solo Use: Starbuzz Mini E-Hose
It captures the essence of the brand in a manageable size. It is perfect for personal enjoyment without the bulk.
How to Choose the Starbuzz Vape?
Choosing a starbuzz vape depends on your environment. If you vape primarily at home, consider your furniture. Do you own a glass rig? If yes, the Wireless E-Head 2.0 is the logical upgrade. It removes the mess of charcoal. It keeps the ritual alive.
If you want a handheld experience, look at your bag size. Do you carry a backpack or purse? The E-Hose 2.0 is great but needs space. It offers the full dual-flavor experience. This is crucial if you love mixing mint with fruits.
For the commuter, the options are limited. The Mini E-Hose is the only real choice. It fits in a car cup holder. It fits in a coat pocket. It is for the user who wants Starbuzz flavors on the move. Heavy smokers might find the throat hit on all these devices too light. They are designed for smoothness, not a harsh kick.
Limitations
The starbuzz vape lineup is not for everyone. Stealth vapers will hate these. They are large, loud, and bright. You cannot ghost vape with an E-Hose. The clouds are too big.
Price is another barrier. The initial cost is high compared to disposables. The cartridges also add up over time. If you are on a strict budget, these might be luxuries.
Flavor chasers who hate tobacco profiles might struggle. Even the fruit flavors have a "shisha" undertone. They are not like the candy-sweet disposables of today. They are complex and earthy.
Heavy nicotine users might find the strength limiting. The cartridges often cap at lower levels. They are not designed for a massive nicotine buzz. They are for enjoyment and sensation.
Is the Starbuzz Vape Lineup Worth It?
The starbuzz vape devices occupy a unique market space. They are not trying to be Juuls or Elf Bars. They are electronic hookahs. For a specific user, they are worth every penny.
If you love the social aspect of hookah, these are excellent. They replicate the hand feel and the draw perfectly. They remove the fire hazard of coals. They eliminate the setup time of foil and tobacco.
The value comes from the build quality. These devices last for years. I have seen E-Hoses survive drops that would shatter a plastic mod. You pay for metal and leather.
However, for the average vaper just wanting nicotine, they are overkill. They are too big and too complex. The proprietary cartridges limit your freedom. You are locked into the Starbuzz ecosystem.
If you want a conversation piece, buy one. If you want a daily stealth fix, look elsewhere. The worth is in the experience, not just the vapor.
Pro Tips for Starbuzz Vape
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Always fully charge the E-Hose before the first use to condition the battery.
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Store cartridges with the rubber caps on to prevent them from drying out.
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Clean the contact points inside the E-Hose weekly to ensure good connection.
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When using the E-Head, start at a low voltage and work your way up.
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Don't over-tighten the cartridges; finger tight is enough to make contact.
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Mix a mint cartridge with a fruit cartridge in the E-Hose for the best results.
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Keep the E-Head tank upright to avoid flooding the coil chamber.
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Replace the E-Head atomizer coil as soon as the flavor tastes muted.
FAQs
How long do the Starbuzz cartridges last?
In our testing, a pair of cartridges in the E-Hose 2.0 lasts about 1500 puffs. This varies heavily based on how deep your drag is. A heavy user might finish them in two days.
Can I refill the cartridges myself?
No, the cartridges for the E-Hose and Mini are sealed. Attempting to open them usually breaks the seal. The E-Head, however, is fully refillable.
Does the E-Hose produce smoke or vapor?
It produces vapor. There is no combustion involved. The device heats the liquid inside the cartridge to create a mist.
Can I use the Wireless E-Head on any hookah?
Yes, it comes with a universal adapter. It fits most standard grommets on traditional glass pipes.
Why is my E-Hose blinking?
A blinking light usually indicates a low battery. It can also mean the cartridges are not connecting properly. Check the tightness.
Are these devices safe for travel?
Yes, but check airline regulations regarding lithium batteries. They must go in carry-on luggage. The E-Hose is large, so expect questions at security.
Do these vapes leak?
They are generally very resistant to leaking. However, leaving them in a hot car can cause the liquid to thin and seep out.
Sources
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Breland A, Soule E, Lopez A, Ramôa C, El-Hellani A, Eissenberg T. Electronic cigarettes: what are they and what do they do?. National Library of Medicine. 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5253272/
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Goniewicz ML, Knysak J, Gawron M, et al. Levels of selected carcinogens and toxicants in vapour from electronic cigarettes. National Library of Medicine. 2014. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4154473/
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Pepper JK, Brewer NT. Electronic nicotine delivery system (electronic cigarette) awareness, use, reactions and beliefs: a systematic review. National Library of Medicine. 2014. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4183842/
About the Author: Chris Miller