XMAX V3 Pro vs V4 Pro: Which Budget Vaporizer Is Worth It?

In short: The XMAX V3 Pro has been the go-to recommendation under €100 for years. With the V4 Pro, XMAX introduced a successor that switches to pure convection — instead of the V3’s hybrid heating. But is the price bump justified? We compare both devices across vapor quality, battery life, daily usability, and value for money.

The Contenders

XMAX (a brand by TopGreen) built its reputation as a reliable budget manufacturer with the V3 Pro. On the market since 2022, the V3 Pro appears in nearly every beginner guide. The V4 Pro arrived mid-2025 as a technological step up — full convection, faster heat-up, and a redesigned airpath.

Both share core features: swappable 18650 batteries, USB-C charging, passthrough charging, and water pipe compatibility. The differences lie in heating method, build refinements, and price.

Specs Compared

Feature	XMAX V3 Pro	XMAX V4 Pro
Price (approx.)	€58–90	€110–130
Heating	Hybrid (conduction + convection)	Pure convection
Temp range	100–220 °C	100–220 °C
Heat-up time	~15 seconds	~11 seconds
Battery	18650, 2,600 mAh, swappable	18650, 2,550 mAh, swappable
Charging	USB-C	USB-C
Passthrough	Yes	Yes
Dosing capsules	Yes (compatible)	No
WPA (water pipe)	Yes	Yes
Display	OLED	OLED
Weight	~120 g	~130 g

Heating and Vapor Quality

The biggest difference comes down to the heating system. The V3 Pro uses a hybrid approach where the chamber heats material through both contact heat (conduction) and hot air (convection) simultaneously. This produces visible vapor from the first draw and works well even with slow, gentle pulls.

The V4 Pro switches to pure convection. Hot air only passes through the material when you inhale. This preserves terpenes, delivers cleaner flavor, and prevents the material from cooking between draws. The result: less waste and more intense aroma — especially at lower temperatures below 190 °C.

For pure flavor, the V4 Pro wins. The V3 Pro is more beginner-friendly since it reliably produces vapor even with passive draw technique. The V4 Pro’s convection needs slightly firmer, slower draws.

Heat-Up Time and Controls

XMAX reduced the V4 Pro’s heat-up time to about 11 seconds — down from roughly 15 seconds on the V3 Pro. Both use an OLED display and single-button control — intuitive from the second session.

Battery and Daily Use

Both use swappable 18650 batteries with similar capacity (2,600 vs. 2,550 mAh), good for 6–10 bowls per charge. A spare 18650 cell costs under €10 and instantly doubles your runtime. Both support passthrough charging and weigh under 130 g — much lighter than premium devices like the Mighty+ (235 g).

Dosing Capsules: V3 Pro Only

A key difference: the V3 Pro supports dosing capsules — small stainless steel capsules that can be pre-loaded and swapped on the go. The V4 Pro currently has no dosing capsule solution. If capsules are part of your routine, the V3 Pro wins here. On the upside, the V4 Pro’s convection chamber stays cleaner since less residue sticks to the walls.

For micro-dosers, capsules are a game-changer. Fill a few at home, toss them in a small case, and swap them on the go without carrying loose herb. Cleanup is minimal too — pull out the capsule after a session and the oven stays almost spotless. Without capsules, you’ll need to brush out the chamber every 3–5 sessions. If portable, on-the-go use is your priority, the V3 Pro’s capsule system tips the scale.

Build Quality

Both use anodized aluminum with zirconia ceramic chambers. Build quality exceeds what you’d expect at this price. The V4 Pro’s improved vapor path is notable — cooling is noticeably better, especially above 200 °C where the V3 Pro can produce slightly harsh vapor.

Water Pipe Compatibility

Both work with water pipe adapters (sold separately). The V4 Pro benefits more — pure convection Plus water cooling delivers exceptionally smooth, flavorful vapor.

Pricing

The V3 Pro is available from over 40 shops starting at around €58. The V4 Pro starts at roughly €110 from 18 shops. The ~€50 premium buys convection heating, faster heat-up, and improved vapor path.

Check current prices in our price comparison for the V3 Pro and V4 Pro.

Verdict

The V3 Pro is the right choice if you want to stay under €70, use dosing capsules, or want a forgiving device for casual draws. The V4 Pro makes more sense if you prioritize flavor, use a water pipe, and can justify the ~€50 premium for the tech upgrade.

Both are outstanding in their price class. The V3 Pro remains king under €70 — if you can spend more and care most about flavor, go with the V4 Pro.

One more thing to consider: the V3 Pro has been on the market since 2022 and has a mature accessory ecosystem — glass stems, WPA adapters, third-party capsules, and carrying cases from brands like 420VAPE and DynaBox. The V4 Pro’s aftermarket scene is still developing. If you want a device with a full ecosystem from day one, the V3 Pro has the edge.

Both devices are backed by active user communities. Temperature tips, cleaning guides, and mods are easy to find on Reddit, FC, and dedicated vaporizer forums.

Current Prices

FAQ

Is the V4 Pro a direct replacement for the V3 Pro?

Not exactly. XMAX positions the V4 Pro as a premium convection option while keeping the V3 Pro as the more affordable hybrid alternative. Both are sold simultaneously.

Can I use my V3 Pro batteries in the V4 Pro?

Yes. Both use standard 18650 batteries. Your existing cells work in either device.

Which produces thicker clouds?

At the same temperature, the V3 Pro tends to produce slightly denser clouds because the hybrid system heats material from all sides. The V4 Pro delivers cleaner, more flavorful vapor instead.

Are there dosing capsules for the V4 Pro?

As of March 2026, there are no official dosing capsules for the V4 Pro. The convection chamber has a different geometry.

Which is better for beginners?

The V3 Pro. Its hybrid heating produces good vapor even with slow, light draws. The V4 Pro’s convection requires firmer, slower draws — not difficult, but the V3 Pro is more forgiving.