Bottom line: The MAD Heaters TEMPEST 2 is one of the best butane vaporizers available. At just 46 grams it fits anywhere, delivers flavor-rich hits through pure convection, and never needs charging. Master the flame, and you get a device that rivals many battery-powered vaporizers on taste and extraction efficiency.
What is the TEMPEST 2?
The TEMPEST 2 is a butane-powered vaporizer from British manufacturer MAD Heaters. It runs without electricity or batteries — instead, a jet-flame lighter heats the outside of a stainless steel heating head. Air flows through the material when you draw (pure convection), and a click mechanism signals when temperature is reached — similar to the DynaVap concept, but with a completely different airflow design.
The second generation (TEMPEST 2) improves on the original with a refined click system, optimized airflow, and adjusted chamber size. MAD Heaters is based in the UK and produces all units by hand.
Specifications
| Feature | TEMPEST 2 |
|---|---|
| Price (approx.) | 206 |
| Heating method | Pure convection (butane) |
| Max temperature | ~290 °C (depends on heating technique) |
| Heat-up time | ~30–40 seconds |
| Battery | None — butane-powered |
| Weight | 46 g |
| Water pipe | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Shops on VapoChecker | [vc_shop_count slug=”mad-heaters-tempest-2″] |
Vapor quality and flavor
This is the TEMPEST 2’s biggest strength. Pure convection and the open airflow design produce exceptionally clean, aromatic vapor. The first hits at lower temperatures deliver a terpene profile that many users describe as superior to most battery-powered devices.
The click mechanism tells you when temperature is reached: one click, draw, enjoy. Heating beyond the click raises the temperature for denser clouds. A full bowl is typically extracted in 2–3 heat cycles.
Draw technique matters: slow, steady pulls give the best results. Fast draws cool the heating head too quickly and reduce vapor production.
Handling and everyday use
At 46 grams, the TEMPEST 2 is one of the lightest vaporizers available. It fits easily into any jacket pocket, on a keychain, or in a small case. No charging cable, no waiting for batteries, no electronics that can break.
You do need a quality jet-flame lighter (single flame recommended) and butane refills. Outdoors it works perfectly — unlike battery devices that struggle in cold weather.
The learning curve is steeper than with electric vaporizers. Flame distance, heating duration, and draw technique all need practice. Most users dial it in within 5–10 sessions.
Water pipe use
The TEMPEST 2 shines especially when paired with a water pipe or bubbler. The 10mm connection fits standard adapters, and water-cooled vapor takes the flavor quality up another notch. For glass setups, the TEMPEST 2 is one of the most popular butane options.
Build quality and materials
The heating head is stainless steel, the body anodized aluminum. Build quality is excellent — MAD Heaters produces in small batches by hand. Wear parts (screens, O-rings) are inexpensive and easy to replace.
The bundle includes a lighter, replacement screens, and a stash jar — recommended for beginners since you can start using it right away.
Who is the TEMPEST 2 for?
Great for:
- Users who want maximum flavor without electronics
- Outdoor enthusiasts (no battery, no cables, no cold-weather issues)
- Glass setups and water filtration
- As a second device alongside an electric vaporizer
- People who enjoy the ritual of manual heating
Less suitable for:
- Complete beginners with no butane experience
- Those who want a set-and-forget device with no learning curve
- Discreet on-the-go use (the flame is conspicuous)
Alternatives to the TEMPEST 2
If you’re considering the TEMPEST 2, also compare:
- DynaVap M7 — cheaper (~€50), conduction instead of convection, smaller bowl. Read comparison
- Vestratto Tornado — similar concept, different airflow. Read comparison
- Storz & Bickel Venty — electric premium alternative. Read comparison
Verdict
The TEMPEST 2 is what happens when a manufacturer takes convection and butane to their logical extreme. Flavor-wise it competes with devices costing three to five times as much. The 46-gram weight makes it the ultimate portable companion, and paired with glass it reaches its full potential.
At around 206, the price is fair for the quality offered — especially considering no battery will ever die and no electronics can fail. Those willing to learn the technique will be rewarded.