Last updated: April 2026 — prices and availability checked daily.
Key Takeaways
- Both portable: pocket-friendly, but differ in heating type, battery life, and build
- IQ3 wins on: ceramic chamber, Smart Paths, replaceable 18650, glass vapor path
- PAX Plus wins on: most discreet design, 10-year warranty, stealth form factor, faster heat-up
- Live prices: IQ3 from 189 € | PAX Plus from 134 €
| Feature | DaVinci IQ3 | PAX Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Heating | Hybrid | Conduction |
| Heat-up | 30s | 22s |
| Battery | 4000 mAh | 3300 mAh |
| App | Yes | No |
| Warranty | 10 yr | 2 yr |
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Does the IQ3 Hybrid Heating Taste Better Than Conduction?
The IQ3 uses hybrid heating with a ceramic chamber and glass vapor path. That produces richer flavor than pure conduction. The PAX Plus is a pure conduction device — simpler build, faster to start, less to think about. Winner for flavor: IQ3.
Source: According to DaVinci, the IQ3 uses a ceramic zirconia chamber with an all-glass vapor path for clean flavor without plastic contact (davincivaporizer.com, 2026).
Which App Gives You More Control?
Both have app control. The IQ3 offers Smart Paths — automatic temperature curves that ramp up during a session. The PAX Plus has degree-precise control and motion sensors that auto-shut the device off. If you want fine-tuning, pick the IQ3. If you want to just turn on and go, pick the PAX Plus.
Which Battery Lasts Longer Day-to-Day?
The IQ3 has 4000 mAh, the PAX Plus 3300 mAh. Both handle 5-7 sessions per charge. The PAX Plus heats up in 22 seconds, the IQ3 needs 30 seconds. Winner for heat-up speed: PAX Plus.
How Do Warranty and Accessories Compare?
The PAX Plus offers 2 years warranty. The IQ3 has 10 years. DaVinci scores with the ceramic chamber and Smart Paths; PAX with its sleek design and large user base. Both have broad accessory ecosystems.
Source: PAX offers a 10-year warranty on all Plus models from date of purchase, including replacement for defects (pax.com/warranty, 2026).
Who Should Buy Which?
Choose the IQ3 if: you want a ceramic chamber for clean flavor, Smart Paths temperature curves, and a replaceable 18650 battery. Best for users who value app control and a glass vapor path.
Choose the PAX Plus if: you want the most discreet design (91g, flat mouthpiece), fast heat-up, and maximum simplicity. Best for users who value stealth carry and 10-year warranty.
Current prices: IQ3 from 189 € | PAX Plus from 134 €
Verdict
IQ3 for flavor and Smart Paths. PAX Plus for simple operation and the slimmest design. Both sit at similar price points — the choice comes down to feature depth (IQ3) versus simplicity (PAX Plus).
Official product pages: DaVinci, PAX
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Price History
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Price Comparison
IQ3
from 189 €
79 Shops
PAX Plus
from 134 €
99 Shops
Prices updated daily