SMOK Nord 4 vs Nord 5 Review
When it comes to compact pod mods, SMOK has always led the way with stylish, powerful, and reliable devices. Among their most popular lines, the Nord series has consistently stood out as a favorite for both new and experienced vapers. With each release, SMOK aims to improve on design, performance, and user experience. Today, we’ll dive into the SMOK Nord 4 vs Nord 5 Review: Key Differences, breaking down everything from design to coils, airflow, and battery performance. If you’re considering upgrading your device or choosing between these two models, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
Introduction to the SMOK Nord Series
The Nord series is known for blending portability with power. The original Nord started as a simple pod system, but over time, SMOK introduced improvements that brought the devices closer to sub-ohm performance without losing their compact appeal. The Nord 4 introduced adjustable airflow and impressive wattage range, making it a versatile pod mod. The Nord 5, however, refined those features and introduced enhancements to coil technology and design. Comparing smok nord 4vs nord 5 reveals how SMOK continues to balance user feedback with innovation.
Design and Build Quality
When comparing the two, design is one of the most noticeable differences. The Nord 4 maintains a curved, pocket-friendly look with smooth edges and multiple finish options. It feels sturdy but light, making it comfortable for daily use. The Nord 5, on the other hand, takes a more modern approach. It has a slightly boxier frame with defined lines, giving it a more advanced aesthetic. The build feels more premium, and it’s clear SMOK paid attention to ergonomics by enhancing grip textures.
Both models offer stylish resin and leather finishes, but the Nord 5’s designs look sharper and more refined. If appearance and a premium feel matter to you, the Nord 5 comes out ahead.
Display and Controls
The Nord 4 features a small OLED display with simple wattage adjustments, battery status, and coil information. It’s easy to read, though basic by today’s standards. The Nord 5 upgrades the display with a clearer and brighter screen, offering a slightly more modern interface. Both devices use the familiar side button for firing, but the Nord 5’s button placement feels smoother, with more responsive feedback.
For new users, both are user-friendly, but the Nord 5 edges out with its more intuitive display layout.
Power and Performance
Performance is where the real differences begin to show. The Nord 4 offers a maximum wattage of 80W, which is impressive for its size. Paired with SMOK’s RPM and RPM 2 coils, it delivers strong vapor production and satisfying flavor. The adjustable airflow allows both MTL (mouth-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping, giving it versatility.
The Nord 5 pushes the performance further, also maxing at 80W but optimizing power delivery through improved chipset efficiency. It exclusively uses RPM 3 coils, designed for better airflow and larger vapor production. The Nord 5’s airflow control is more precise, allowing smoother transitions between restricted and open draws. This results in denser clouds and more consistent flavor compared to the Nord 4.
If you’re chasing performance, the Nord 5’s refinement makes it a better long-term choice.
Coil Compatibility and Flavor
One of the biggest differences lies in coil compatibility. The Nord 4 supports both RPM and RPM 2 coils, giving users more flexibility. This wide range means you can choose coils for tighter draws, high nicotine salts, or larger clouds. For vapers who love variety, the Nord 4’s backward compatibility is a plus.
The Nord 5, however, moves exclusively to RPM 3 coils. While it reduces flexibility, it makes up for it with performance. RPM 3 coils are designed with better mesh technology, improving flavor saturation and vapor density. This makes the Nord 5 ideal for direct-lung vapers who want a consistent experience without switching between multiple coil families.
In terms of flavor output, the Nord 5 produces richer notes and better cloud volume, while the Nord 4 gives you more coil options.
Battery and Charging
Both devices feature a 2000mAh internal battery, which is impressive for compact pod mods. However, battery efficiency differs slightly. The Nord 4, depending on coil choice, drains faster at higher wattages. The Nord 5 optimizes battery usage thanks to its updated chipset, offering slightly better endurance under similar conditions.
Charging speed is another factor. Both use Type-C fast charging, but the Nord 5 charges more efficiently, taking less time to hit full capacity. For vapers on the go, that small improvement makes a noticeable difference.
Pod and E-Liquid Capacity
The Nord 4 uses 4.5ml pods compatible with both RPM and RPM 2 coils. Filling is simple with a side-fill mechanism, although minor leaking can happen with prolonged use. The Nord 5 increases capacity slightly to 5ml and introduces stronger pod seals, reducing the chances of leakage. The filling system is smoother, making it more beginner-friendly.
That extra capacity, while small, means fewer refills during heavy vaping sessions. The stronger seals also make the Nord 5 more reliable for long-term use.
Airflow Control
Airflow is one of the defining features of the Nord series. The Nord 4 introduced dual airflow dials on both sides, which was a big improvement for the series. This gave users excellent control over draw resistance. However, it sometimes required adjustment on both sides for balance.
The Nord 5 simplifies this with a single airflow slider. It’s easier to use and offers precise control. This design makes it quicker to switch between MTL and DTL settings, enhancing the user experience.
Portability and Everyday Use
Both devices are portable, but the Nord 4 feels slightly more compact due to its rounded shape. It slips easily into pockets and feels lighter during extended use. The Nord 5, while slightly bulkier, feels sturdier and more premium in hand. Its ergonomic improvements make it more comfortable to grip, even if it isn’t as pocket-friendly as the Nord 4.
If portability is your priority, the Nord 4 has the edge. But if comfort and durability matter more, the Nord 5 is the better option.
Price and Value
Price often plays a role in choosing between two devices. The Nord 4, being older, is generally more affordable and offers excellent value for those who want flexibility with coil compatibility. The Nord 5, as the newer model, costs a bit more but justifies the price with better performance, upgraded coils, and design improvements.
For budget-conscious vapers, the Nord 4 remains a great option. But for those willing to spend slightly more for enhanced flavor and usability, the Nord 5 is worth the investment.
SMOK Nord 4 vs Nord 5: Which Should You Buy?
If you’re choosing between the two, your decision depends on your vaping style. The Nord 4 is perfect if you want coil flexibility, affordability, and compact portability. It’s still powerful and offers excellent performance. The Nord 5, however, is the clear winner if you prioritize flavor quality, coil efficiency, and a more refined design.
For a deeper comparison, you can check this detailed guide on smok nord 4 vs nord 5 which breaks down every aspect of performance and usability.
FAQs
Is the SMOK Nord 5 better than the Nord 4?
Yes, the Nord 5 offers better coil performance, refined airflow control, and a more premium design compared to the Nord 4.
Which coils are compatible with Nord 4 and Nord 5?
The Nord 4 supports RPM and RPM 2 coils, while the Nord 5 exclusively uses RPM 3 coils for better flavor and vapor.
How long does the Nord 5 battery last compared to Nord 4?
Both feature 2000mAh batteries, but the Nord 5 is slightly more efficient, lasting longer under the same wattage settings.
Can you use nicotine salts in the Nord 4 and Nord 5?
Yes, but the Nord 4’s wider coil range makes it more suitable for nicotine salts, while the Nord 5 excels with freebase e-liquids and sub-ohm vaping.
Which device is better for beginners?
The Nord 5 is simpler to use with its single airflow slider and optimized coil system. However, the Nord 4 offers flexibility for beginners wanting to experiment with different styles.
The SMOK Nord 4 vs Nord 5 Review: Key Differences highlights how both devices excel in different areas. The Nord 4 remains a versatile, affordable choice with coil flexibility and portability. The Nord 5 builds on that legacy, offering better performance, premium design, and superior flavor delivery. Choosing the right one depends on your needs: variety and affordability with the Nord 4, or refined performance and flavor with the Nord 5.
If you’re ready to upgrade your vaping experience, explore more in-depth comparisons and expert guides on VapeSnare360 where you’ll find everything you need to make the perfect choice.
