PAX 2

Four presets cover 182-215 °C. The PAX app enables degree-precise control. Heat-up in about 45 seconds. Lip sensor detects draws automatically.

The 3500 mAh battery lasts 8-10 sessions. Magnetic USB dock charging. The app adds temperature control, games, and diagnostics. 10-year warranty.

PAX dosing capsules keep the chamber clean. The Half Pack Lid halves chamber size for smaller amounts.

Available across 4 shops. Compared to the PAX 3, the PAX 2 saves budget with similar core function.

The PAX 2 uses pure conduction: the stainless steel chamber walls heat material directly. This means fast heat-up and dense vapor. Four temperature levels up to 215 °C.

For best extraction, draw slowly and steadily -- short, hard puffs don't work well with conduction. A fine grind and tight pack improve results noticeably. Some users stir the chamber halfway through a session.

The sealed 3000 mAh battery is among the larger ones in portables. Expect six to eight full sessions per charge. Charging takes about two hours via the magnetic dock.

The dock is compact but needs its own cable -- standard USB-C won't work. Daily users should charge overnight. A second dock makes a good travel backup.

The PAX 3 is the direct successor. Key upgrades: a Bluetooth app for precise temperature control, faster heat-up (15 vs 45 seconds), and a concentrate insert option.

The PAX 2 stays cheaper and simpler. No app, no Bluetooth, no extras -- just four temperature levels via the button. If you only vape dry herbs and can skip app features, the PAX 2 delivers solid performance at a lower price.

The PAX 2 introduced a lip-sensing feature that activates heating the moment you draw from the mouthpiece. This replaced the older button-based activation from the original PAX and made the whole experience more intuitive. The flat mouthpiece sits flush with the body, keeping the profile slim enough to disappear into a pocket. Three preset temperature levels cover a range from lighter flavor sessions at the low end to denser clouds at the top setting. While newer PAX models added app control and haptic feedback, the PAX 2 remains popular because it does the basics well without extra complexity. The anodized aluminum shell holds up over years of daily use, and the oven heats evenly thanks to conduction walls on all sides.

The PAX 2 by PAX starts at 0€ and heats up in 45 seconds. The Venty by Storz & Bickel starts at 1€ with a 20-second heat-up time. Both devices use different heating methods and suit demanding users in this price range.

See the full Venty price comparison

• PAX -- Manufacturer Website