When it comes to high-performance pod kits, two devices consistently rise to the top of the conversation: the Smok RPM C and the Vaporesso LUXE X2. Both are designed for vapers who want more power and capacity than a basic pod system without stepping up to a full box mod. But despite targeting a similar audience, these two devices take different approaches to design, performance, and user experience.
In this detailed head-to-head comparison, we’ll examine every aspect of both devices so you can confidently choose the pod kit that best fits your style.
At a Glance: Specs Comparison
| Specification | Smok RPM C | Vaporesso LUXE X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 1650mAh | 1600mAh |
| Maximum Wattage | 50W | 40W |
| Pod Capacity | 4mL | 5mL |
| Coil System | RPM 3 Mesh Coils | GTX Mesh Coils |
| Display | 0.96″ OLED | 0.69″ OLED |
| Charging | USB-C | USB-C |
| Airflow | Adjustable (side) | Adjustable (bottom) |
| Activation | Button only | Button only |
| Weight | ~95g | ~72g |
| Dimensions | 105 x 30 x 25mm | 118 x 31 x 22mm |
I ended up testing both of these for about two weeks each, swapping back and forth. My daily driver is a Vaporesso XROS 4 Mini, so I went into this comparison with a slight Vaporesso bias, I will admit that upfront. But I genuinely tried to give the RPM C a fair shake. I loaded both with the same Blueberry Lemon juice I have been vaping for months and kept notes on my phone every day. What surprised me most was how different these two feel in daily use despite looking similar on paper.
Design and Build Quality
Smok RPM C
The RPM C features a rounded, ergonomic body that sits comfortably in the hand. It has a slightly wider profile than the LUXE X2, which gives it a substantial feel without being bulky. The side-mounted airflow control ring is easy to adjust, and the 0.96-inch OLED screen is crisp and readable, displaying wattage, battery level, resistance, and puff count. The device comes in a range of color options with a mix of matte and glossy finishes.
Vaporesso LUXE X2
The LUXE X2 takes a more streamlined approach with a slimmer, taller form factor. It feels lighter in the pocket and has a sleek, almost minimalist aesthetic. The smaller 0.69-inch OLED display is functional but less prominent than the RPM C’s screen. Vaporesso’s build quality is consistently excellent, and the LUXE X2 is no exception; the device feels solid without any rattling or loose components. The bottom airflow adjustment is precise but slightly less convenient to access on the fly compared to the RPM C’s side ring.
Winner: Tie. The RPM C feels more robust and has a better display; the LUXE X2 is slimmer and more pocket-friendly. It comes down to personal preference.
Performance
Power and Vapor Production
The Smok RPM C has a clear advantage in raw power, topping out at 50W versus the LUXE X2’s 40W ceiling. At higher wattages, the RPM C produces noticeably denser, warmer vapor. For cloud enthusiasts or vapers who prefer a robust direct-to-lung experience, that extra 10W makes a real difference.
That said, the Vaporesso LUXE X2 punches above its weight. The GTX mesh coil platform is exceptionally well-tuned, and at 35-40W the device delivers rich, full-bodied flavor that competes with the RPM C’s output at similar settings. Vaporesso’s coil technology is arguably more efficient, extracting more flavor per watt.
Flavor Quality
This is where the comparison gets interesting. While the RPM C produces more vapor overall, many vapers find the LUXE X2’s GTX coils deliver slightly more nuanced flavor. The GTX mesh heating element is known for even heat distribution, which translates to consistent flavor from the first puff to the last drop of e-liquid.
The RPM C’s RPM 3 coils are no slouch, though. They produce bold, punchy flavor that works particularly well with dessert and fruit profiles. The difference is subtle, and both devices rank among the best-tasting pod kits available.
Winner: RPM C for raw power; LUXE X2 for flavor refinement.
Coil Options and Availability
Smok RPM C (RPM 3 Coils)
The RPM 3 coil platform offers several resistance options:
- 0.15 ohm Mesh: 25-50W, best for maximum vapor
- 0.23 ohm Mesh: 20-40W, balanced performance
- 0.4 ohm Mesh: 12-25W, restricted DTL/loose MTL
RPM 3 coils are widely available and generally affordable. Smok’s massive market presence means you’ll rarely have trouble finding replacements.
Vaporesso LUXE X2 (GTX Coils)
The GTX coil platform is equally versatile:
- 0.2 ohm Mesh: 32-45W, cloud-focused DTL
- 0.3 ohm Mesh: 25-35W, balanced DTL
- 0.6 ohm Mesh: 15-22W, restricted DTL/loose MTL
- 1.2 ohm Regular: 7-13W, true MTL with nic salts
The GTX platform has a wider resistance range, which gives the LUXE X2 an edge in versatility. The 1.2-ohm option means you can use this device with nic salt e-liquids for a tighter draw, something the RPM C can’t easily replicate.
Winner: LUXE X2 for coil versatility. The GTX platform covers MTL through DTL, while the RPM 3 is primarily a DTL system.
Battery Life
The batteries are nearly identical in capacity: 1650mAh for the RPM C and 1600mAh for the LUXE X2. In practice, the LUXE X2 tends to last slightly longer because its lower maximum wattage means less energy draw per puff at typical settings. Both devices support USB-C fast charging, with the RPM C reaching a full charge in roughly 90 minutes and the LUXE X2 in about 80 minutes.
For most vapers, either device will comfortably last a full day of moderate use. Heavy vapers running at max wattage may need a midday top-up with either device.
Winner: Slight edge to the LUXE X2 due to more efficient power delivery.
Pod Capacity and Refilling
The LUXE X2 wins here with a generous 5mL pod compared to the RPM C’s 4mL. That extra milliliter adds up over a day of vaping, meaning fewer refills. Both pods use a side-fill design with silicone stoppers that seal reliably and resist leaking.
Pod replacement is straightforward on both devices. The LUXE X2 pods snap in magnetically with a satisfying click, while the RPM C pods press-fit into place and hold securely.
Winner: LUXE X2 for capacity.
Ease of Use
Both devices are button-fire only (no auto-draw). The RPM C’s larger display makes it easier to see your current settings at a glance, and the three-button interface (fire, up, down) is intuitive. The LUXE X2 uses a similar button layout but the smaller screen requires slightly more attention to read.
Wattage adjustment is smooth on both devices. The RPM C offers 1W increments, while the LUXE X2 adjusts in 0.5W steps for finer control.
Winner: RPM C for the larger, more readable display.
Price and Value
Both devices typically fall in the same price bracket, making value a function of what matters most to you. The LUXE X2 offers better long-term value if you plan to use both MTL and DTL coils, since you won’t need a separate device for nic salts. The RPM C offers better value if raw power and display quality are your priorities.
Winner: Tie. Both offer excellent value for their respective strengths.
Here is the thing nobody talks about in comparison reviews: your daily habits matter more than specs. I tend to take short, frequent puffs throughout the day rather than long sessions. For that pattern, the LUXE X2 with its efficient GTX coils was noticeably better on battery life. But when my buddy Chris, who chain-vapes during his lunch break, borrowed both for a weekend, he preferred the RPM C because the higher wattage gave him a more satisfying quick hit. Same devices, different winners, depending on how you vape.
The Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
Choose the Smok RPM C if you:
- Want maximum wattage and cloud production from a pod kit
- Prefer a larger, more detailed display
- Primarily vape DTL with freebase nicotine
- Like a wider, more substantial device in hand
Choose the Vaporesso LUXE X2 if you:
- Want versatility to switch between MTL and DTL vaping
- Prefer a slimmer, lighter device for portability
- Value flavor nuance and coil efficiency
- Want a larger pod capacity with fewer refills
- Plan to use both nic salt and freebase e-liquids
If I had to pick one to recommend to my wife — who is not a vape person but has been thinking about trying it to quit smoking — I would hand her the LUXE X2 with the 1.2 ohm MTL coil and a mild tobacco nic salt. The versatility sealed it for me. But if you already know you like a warmer, cloudier vape and you are not switching between nic salts and freebase, the RPM C is the better pure DTL pod. There is no wrong answer here, honestly.
Ready to Choose?
Both the Smok RPM C and Vaporesso LUXE X2 are outstanding pod kits that represent the best of what 2026 has to offer. Your ideal choice depends on whether you prioritize power and display quality or versatility and portability.
Explore both devices and their compatible coils in our starter kits collection. We also carry the full range of replacement pods and coils for both platforms, along with premium e-liquids to pair with your new device. Find your perfect setup today.
