The RELX Essential has become a highly recognized entrant in the pod-based vaping space. Positioned as an affordable and user-friendly introduction to RELX’s ecosystem, the Essential aims to strike a balance between simplicity and performance. In this review, we’ll explore its build quality, performance, pod system, battery life, ergonomics, longevity, and value—delving into both its advantages and limitations.
1. Design & Build Quality
Out of the box, the RELX Essential device Dubai stands out for its minimalist and sophisticated design. Crafted with a sleek rectangular form, it generally fits flawlessly in hand or pocket. Offered in a variety of matte and glossy finishes, the device also features a magnetically attached pod for secure insertion and a smooth, seamless aesthetic.
Its body feels lightweight but sturdy—made of quality materials that resist scratching. While a top-of-the-line build compared to premium devices like RELX Infinity, it still maintains stability and everyday wear resistance. Overall, its design delivers a balance of functionality and elegance.
2. Ease of Use
One of the Essential’s greatest strengths is its simplicity. It operates as a purely draw-activated pod system, meaning users inhale to activate vaping—no buttons, no menu toggles.
This makes it ideal for beginners or anyone wanting an instant, effortless transition from smoking. There’s no setup needed: insert the pod, take a puff, and the built-in airflow sensor does the rest.
The only user interaction required is charging and occasional pod replacement—making it a highly convenient starter device or daily carry companion.
3. Pod System & Flavors
The Essential uses RELX’s proprietary pods, which are prefilled and engineered for exclusive compatibility. RELX maintains a strong flavor lineup—ranging from mint and fruit blends to tobacco and creamy desserts.
Pods are easy to replace—simply pull out the used one and snap a new one into place. Each pod delivers a consistent and satisfying taste. The flavor accuracy and longevity are notable, often lasting multiple days depending on vaping behavior.
Because the pods are disposable, there’s no cleaning required—just monitor pod supply. Although this means recurring cost, the convenience and flavor reliability often outweigh that for many users.
4. Battery Life & Charging
The RELX Essential is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery, typically ranging between 350–370 mAh. Under moderate use, this provides about a day’s worth of sessions before needing recharge.
Charging is handled via a Type-C USB port, usually located at the bottom of the device. Charging times vary, but a full recharge can take just under an hour.
One noted limitation is the lack of LED indicators to show battery status during charging. Users must rely on the color of a small indicator light (such as red for charging, green or white for full) to determine power level.
Still, for its intended use—compact daily vaping—the battery is fairly reliable. For those with heavier usage patterns, carrying a small charger or spare Essential may be wise.
5. Performance & Vaping Experience
When it comes to output, the RELX Essential offers a smooth, consistent draw—neither too tight nor overly airy—hitting the modern sweet spot of most users.
Nicotine delivery is satisfying due to its high-quality nicotine salt formula in the pods. The throat hit is adequately strong for former smokers, yet still smooth and clean without harshness.
Vapor production is moderate—enough for subtle visibility, ideal for stealth use and public environments. The device focuses on flavor and nicotine delivery rather than delivering dense clouds.
Across the pod’s life, vapor and flavor delivery remain consistent, making the experience reliable from first puff to the last.
6. Maintenance and Hygiene
An advantage of RELX Essential is its low-maintenance design. The absence of a heating coil means no replacements or cleaning are required within the device—just occasional external wipe-down.
Users must replace the pod when it runs dry, but pod swapping is painless and requires no tools or cleaning. Keeping the mouthpiece area clean ensures hygiene and maintains smooth inhalation.
Its lack of maintenance-related learning curve contributes to its appeal for both beginners and experienced users wanting quick reliability without routine upkeep.
7. Cost & Value
Pricing for the RELX Essential is positioned at an entry-level point in the RELX line. While the device itself is affordable, recurring costs include:
- Replacement pods
- Charging supplies (Type-C cable)—which most users already own
- Occasional protective accessories (cases or silicone skins)
Over time, pod costs will accumulate. Nevertheless, many users find the consistency, flavor accuracy, and simplicity worth the budget trade-off—particularly given the hassle-free experience.
8. Pros & Enjoyable Highlights
- Beginner-Friendly: Zero buttons, plug-and-play operation
- Sleek Design: Lightweight with premium build quality
- Strong Flavor: Excellent taste and throat hit from RELX pods
- Low Maintenance: No cleaning or coil changes required
- Discreet & Portable: Ideal for stealth and everyday carry
- Consistent Performance: Stable vapor and nicotine delivery over pod life
- Wide Presentation: Reliable design comparable at a lower price vs. premium RELX models
9. Cons & Limitations
- Limited Battery Life: A single day for moderate users; no extras for high-frequency usage
- Pod Exclusivity: Cannot use third-party pods; reliant on the brand’s ecosystem
- Minimal Indicators: LED gives limited information on battery level
- Cost Over Time: Pod replacements can add up compared to refillable systems
- No Airflow or Power Control: Fixed draw and output may leave advanced users wanting more customization
- Potential Pod Availability: Access to specific flavors or pods can vary by region
10. Real-World Use Scenarios
For Beginners
The RELX Essential shines here—no fuss, no learning curve. Just insert pod and inhale. Consistent flavor and nicotine delivery help ease the transition away from cigarettes.
For Second Device Users
Vapers with more advanced kits often appreciate the Essential as a backup—portability, stealth, and zero-maintenance make it ideal for workdays or travels.
For Light to Moderate Users
The device fits daily use well, especially for those who prefer quick sessions over long cloud chasing.
Not Ideal For
Cloud chasers or hobbyists seeking adjustable power, customizable airflow, or heavy-duty battery life may find it limiting.
Final Verdict
The RELX Essential delivers what it promises: an affordable, flavor-focused, and hassle-free vaping experience. Its design emphasizes convenience, wrapped in a sleek package with consistent performance and minimal effort required.
For smokers transitioning from cigarettes or casual vapers wanting something reliable and discreet, the Essential remains one of the most compelling pod-style options available