Introduction
When it comes to compact pod systems, SMOK’s Nord series is one of the most recognized in the vaping world. The SMOK Nord 5 vs Nord 4: What’s the Real Difference? debate has been heating up among vapers who want to know if upgrading is worth it. Both devices are stylish, portable, and powerful, but there are notable distinctions in design, performance, battery life, and coil compatibility. If you’re trying to choose between these two, this in-depth comparison will help you decide.
SMOK Nord 5 vs Nord 4 SMOK Nord Series
SMOK launched the Nord series to cater to vapers who wanted a balance between portability and performance. The Nord 4 quickly became a fan favorite, offering adjustable wattage, better airflow control, and impressive coil options. However, SMOK didn’t stop there. With the Nord 5, they introduced further refinements, aiming for improved flavor, cloud production, and ease of use.
Understanding these differences matters because what works for one vaper may not suit another. Whether you’re chasing dense clouds or prefer discreet flavor-packed puffs, knowing the upgrades and trade-offs will guide your purchase.
Design and Build Quality
Overall Look and Feel
The Nord 4 has a sleek, rounded design with a comfortable grip, available in a range of eye-catching patterns and colors. The Nord 5 follows this aesthetic but with subtle improvements. It features a slightly larger body to accommodate its bigger pod and upgraded internals. The Nord 5 also sports a more modernized airflow slider and refined finish that feels more premium in hand.
Durability
Both devices are constructed with zinc alloy and durable plastic, ensuring they can withstand daily use. However, the Nord 5 feels slightly sturdier due to its updated pod locking mechanism, which reduces accidental leaks or pod movement during use.
Performance and Power
Wattage Output
The Nord 4 offers an adjustable wattage range up to 80W, giving plenty of flexibility for both MTL (mouth-to-lung) and DTL (direct-to-lung) vaping styles. The Nord 5 maintains the 80W maximum output but delivers a more consistent power curve, meaning you get steady vapor production without dips in performance as the battery drains.
Coil Options and Compatibility
One of the biggest changes in the Nord 5 is its exclusive compatibility with SMOK’s RPM 3 coils. These are designed for better airflow and denser vapor compared to the Nord 4’s RPM and RPM 2 coil compatibility. While the Nord 4 offers more coil variety, the Nord 5’s focus on RPM 3 coils means you get optimized performance, especially for sub-ohm vaping.
Flavor and Vapor Quality
In side-by-side tests, the Nord 5 generally produces richer flavor and thicker clouds thanks to its re-engineered pod and coil structure. The Nord 4 is still excellent, especially for vapers who enjoy a tighter draw or prefer using higher nicotine strengths, but cloud chasers will appreciate the Nord 5’s enhancements.
Battery Life and Charging
Battery Capacity
Both devices house a 2000mAh internal battery, which is impressive for their size. However, due to coil efficiency and chip upgrades, the Nord 5 often lasts slightly longer under similar usage conditions.
Charging Speed
Both feature USB-C fast charging, taking around 75 minutes for a full charge. This makes them convenient for all-day use without long downtime.
Pod and E-Liquid Capacity
The Nord 4 pod holds 4.5ml of e-liquid, while the Nord 5 pod is slightly larger at 5ml. This extra capacity means fewer refills throughout the day. The redesigned Nord 5 pod also improves leak resistance and provides a more secure fit with the device body.
Airflow Adjustments
The Nord 4 features a dual airflow control wheel, one on each side, which allows for very fine adjustments. The Nord 5 moves to a single, larger airflow slider, which is easier to adjust but slightly less precise. For most vapers, the Nord 5’s simpler approach will be more user-friendly, but airflow purists may prefer the Nord 4’s dual control.
Ease of Use
Both devices feature a side-mounted fire button, simple wattage controls, and a clear OLED display. However, the Nord 5’s interface is slightly more intuitive, with cleaner menu navigation and clearer battery and wattage indicators.
Price and Value
The Nord 4, being an older model, is generally more affordable and widely available in vape stores. The Nord 5 is newer, so it comes at a slightly higher price point. Whether the upgrade is worth it depends on your vaping priorities—better coil performance, slightly larger pods, and refined airflow may justify the cost for many users.
For more technical details and deeper breakdowns, you can explore this detailed smok nord 4 vs nord 5 comparison.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you value coil variety, precise airflow adjustments, and a lower price, the Nord 4 is still a fantastic choice. However, if you want the latest tech, improved flavor production, and slightly better battery efficiency, the Nord 5 edges ahead.
FAQs
What is the main difference between SMOK Nord 5 and Nord 4?
The main difference lies in coil compatibility and performance tuning. The Nord 5 uses RPM 3 coils for richer flavor and better cloud production, while the Nord 4 supports RPM and RPM 2 coils for more versatility.
Does SMOK Nord 5 produce more vapor than Nord 4?
Yes, thanks to its optimized pod and coil design, the Nord 5 tends to produce denser clouds compared to the Nord 4.
Can I use Nord 4 coils in Nord 5?
No, the Nord 5 only supports RPM 3 coils, while the Nord 4 supports RPM and RPM 2 coils.
Is the Nord 5 worth the upgrade from Nord 4?
If you prioritize flavor, vapor production, and a slightly more premium feel, the upgrade is worth it. If you prefer coil flexibility and want to save money, stick with the Nord 4.
The SMOK Nord 5 vs Nord 4: What’s the Real Difference? debate comes down to your vaping style. Both are excellent pod mods, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Nord 4 shines in coil variety and precise airflow control, while the Nord 5 wins in flavor, vapor density, and pod design. Whether you’re upgrading or buying your first Nord, either device delivers a satisfying experience.
If you want to explore more vaping comparisons, guides, and product reviews, visit TryVapex for expert insights and recommendations.
