Summary
The STLTH Open by STLTH is a sleek, draw-activated refillable pod system powered by a 1000 mAh battery and a 2 mL side-fill pod. It offers a warm, flavourful draw from its 0.4 Ω mesh coil, adjustable airflow, and fast charging via USB-C, all for around $13.
STLTH Open Pod Device Review
STLTH has a reputation for developing devices that make vaping as straightforward and easy as possible, and the new STLTH Open follows that same philosophy. It's an ultra-simple refillable pod system that gives you more control over the nicotine salts you use than your average grab-and-go disposable.
So many people are saying that the STLTH Open's low price point makes it a great entry-level option for vapers looking to make the switch, but cost is only one part of the equation. Find out what we loved, what was just okay, and what could have been better when we tested it in-house below.
Pros
- Comes with a refillable 2 mL pod with an easy side-fill port
- Button-free auto-draw firing makes it incredibly simple to use
- Very affordable upfront price point
Cons
- No screen, puff counter, or power options
- Coil is built into the pod and can't be replaced on its own
- Pods only have one 0.4 Ω coil
Ratings
- Build Quality and Design: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Value: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Battery and Charging: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Usability: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Key Features
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Device Type | Refillable Open Pod System |
| Battery | 1000 mAh rechargeable |
| E-Liquid Capacity | 2 mL (refillable, side-fill pod) |
| Pre-Filled? | No |
| Coil | 0.4 Ω integrated mesh |
| Modes | None (Single Output) |
| Airflow | Adjustable |
| Activation | Draw-Activated |
| Charging | USB Type-C |
| Screen | Breathing LED |
| Release Date | 2026 |
First Impressions
The STLTH Open's packaging is almost as plain as the device inside. We chose the plain black device, so the box it came in was black, too, with a soft matte feel and white text. Some of the more colourful options come in high-contrast blue, purple or cyan boxes instead.
Once we opened it up, we found the device lying in a plastic tray beside the refillable 2 mL pod, which was conveniently wrapped in plastic. The vape itself was lighter than expected even though we already knew it wasn't going to be very big based on the pictures, but it still sits nicely in your hand.
In the Box
- 1 x STLTH Open Pod Device
- 1 x STLTH Open Pod (2 mL, 0.4 Ω)
Using the Device
Charging
The Open has a decently-sized 1000 mAh battery, and our first task as soon as it was set up was to charge it to full so it wouldn't interfere with our tests. It came partially charged already, so it didn't take very long to top it up.
Once it was ready to go, it got us through about a day and a half of vaping without any real need to plug it back in. If you're a heavier vaper or enjoy chain sessions, you're definitely going to need to charge it more often, so just keep that in mind.
Setting Up the Pod
Setting up the STLTH Open takes about a minute. All you have to do is flip open the silicone plug on the side of the pod, tip your e-liquid into the fill port, and press the plug back down. The plug stays attached the whole time, but if you pull too hard on it, it will come off. Tuck it downward under your finger instead.
Give the 0.4 Ω mesh coil at least 5 to 10 minutes to saturate before you take that first draw, especially if you're using a thicker high-VG juice. The device will thank you by delivering a cleaner, more flavourful mouthful of vapour, and you'll avoid scorching the coil at the same time.
Since the coil is actually built into the pod on this one, we recommend picking up a couple of extras. It's nice to have them on hand so you can swap them out once the coil dies.
Draw Quality & Taste
The auto-draw fires the instant you inhale with no drag or resistance. As expected, the 0.4 Ω mesh coil produced a warm, flavourful hit that sat best for us in MTL territory, but it's light and airy enough to do a little DTL vaping if you crank open the airflow at the same time.
To keep the test honest to the brand, we used STLTH's Arctic Mint, and later, Juicy Peach. Both the icy and fruity flavours came through clear and intense from the first puff to the last. There was just a little ghosting after we refilled it with the Juicy Peach, but it went away after a couple of draws.
Airflow & Controls
The airflow slider is the only thing to actually adjust on the STLTH Open. All you have to keep in mind is that you won't really notice much of a difference if you try to adjust it while you're taking a draw. The change will take effect on the next one.
There's no screen to speak of or any other controls, just a breathing LED symbol on the side of the device that tells you the battery level. It turns white when it's full, yellow when it's at less than 50%, and red to let you know that you should plug it in as soon as possible. It'll also flash if the pod isn't in place correctly.
Pro Tips for Vapers
- Priming: If the first draw after a refill tastes burnt, give the coil a little more time to saturate.
- Chain Vaping: Take short breaks between draws to avoid burning the coil out.
- Refills: It's better to top the pod up early than to let it run completely dry.
- Charging: Avoid running the battery down to empty to keep it healthy.
- Storage: Store the STLTH Open upright in an area away from pets and children.
Should You Buy It?
The STLTH Open is one of the most straightforward options out there if you're looking to move away from disposables and get into refillables for the first time. It's also a solid choice for anyone who prefers to use their own juice or mix flavours, but doesn't want to spend a fortune on bells and whistles.
Buy It If:
- You hate the waste associated with throwing out disposables every time
- You want more control over the flavour or e-juice you use
- You like dead-simple auto-draw vapes that just work
- You need a light, pocketable vape that fits into your pocket or purse
- You're already a fan of similar devices or like STLTH's flavour line
Main Use Cases:
- Daily vaping
- MTL and light DTL vaping
- Switching away from cigarettes
- On-the-go vaping or travel
Price and Value
You can expect to pay around $13 for the STLTH Open kit itself, which is about as low as you'll get for an entry-level refillable vape like this. That's excellent value even when you factor in buying your own e-juice or ordering a few replacement pods at the same time.
We have all of the best flavours in STLTH's lineup in our shop for you to choose from and at $20 for around 30ml, they're a real steal all on their own. If you aren't into them, browse our full inventory of eliquids to find everything from bold tobacco to nicotine-free instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About the STLTH Open
How long does the STLTH Open battery last?
The 1000 mAh battery should get most daily vapers through the better part of a day, but it's going to depend on how you vape. We recommend keeping it plugged in overnight while you sleep.
How do I check the battery level?
The breathing LED is colour-coded: white for 40 to 99 percent, yellow for 10 to 40 percent, and red for 0 to 10 percent. 10 red flashes means the battery is empty and needs a charge, but you should ideally try to plug it in before it reaches that point. It's not the end of the world if that doesn't happen, though.
Is the STLTH Open draw-activated?
Yes! It has a built-in auto-draw firing mechanism that triggers the second you inhale or pull on the mouthpiece. There's no need to click any buttons or fuss around with controls to enjoy it!
How do I refill the pod?
Open the silicone plug on the side of the pod, add your e-liquid, and seal it back up. Let the coil soak for a few minutes before your first draw, and make sure the silicone plug is firmly reseated before you take the first pull.
Why is the LED flashing blue?
Five blue flashes means the pod is not making proper contact with the vape device itself. Remove it and reseat it again. If it still happens, wipe the connection points clean, then try again. If it continues to happen to a new device you ordered from us, give us a call and let us know.
Why does my STLTH Open taste burnt?
The coil is likely dry or worn out, especially if you've been using it for a while. If you have a new one on hand, fill it up and switch it out to see if it makes a difference. You should notice an immediate improvement.
What e-liquid works best?
Balanced 50/50 blends or higher-VG nic salts are the way to go with this one. You won't find concentrations over 20 mg/mL here in Canada, though, so that's your max. We do have some nicotine-free e-liquids if you're looking to reduce your intake!
Competitor Comparison
| Device | Style | Battery | Coil | Display |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STLTH Open | Device + Refillable Pod | 1000 mAh | 2 mL, 0.4 Ω mesh | LED |
| UWell Caliburn G3 | Device + Refillable Pods | 900 mAh | 2.5 mL, swappable coils | LED |
| SMOK Nord 5 | Device + Refillable Pod | 2000 mAh | 5 mL, swappable coils | LED |
| STLTH Loop 3 | Device Only | 1000 mAh | Depends on Pod | LED |
