BD Vape Rayden 100
The striking design of the Rayden 100 made it one of the most sought-after mods on the market. Bold, rugged, and undeniably unique, this device is easy to love and hard to forget. It’s also powerful, providing up to 100 watts on a single 21700 battery. It can accommodate 25 mm atomizers without overhang, and features a 0.96-inch screen.
Looking for the best box mod? We’ve rounded up the top options, from beginner-friendly box mod starter kits with regulated chipsets to advanced devices for experienced vapers. Most of our picks use either a single removable battery or a built-in battery. If you’re after maximum power, check out our best high-wattage mods list.
This guide also covers squonk mods, a specialized type of box mod with an integrated e-liquid bottle. Instead of relying on a traditional tank, squonkers feed e-liquid upward through the bottom of an RDA. On-demand coil saturation! Plus, they can store more e-juice than most tanks and provide a flavorful dripper experience.
With so many vape mods available, choosing the right one can be overwhelming, which is why we’ve provided our top picks below. And be sure to check out our guide to learn more about box mods, squonkers, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
What is a box mod?
A box mod is essentially just a power source and control unit. It supplies power to a vaping atomizer using one or more rechargeable batteries. Most mods also offer adjustable power and other features. The term “mod” has its origins in the early years of e-cigs, where hobbyist vapers “modified” existing electrical hardware (like flashlights) into vaping hardware.
Almost universally, box mods have a firing switch or button. Press the switch and the mod delivers power to the atomizer, heats the coil, and vaporizes the e-liquid. Release it, and the power is cut off.
Types of box mods
There are many different types of box mods and e-cig mods available in the market. These are some of the most common ways to categorize them.
Form and design
Box mods come in different designs, configurations, and aesthetics. The size of box mods can range from small and pocket-friendly to large and heavy. But regardless of the size, they’re all considered handheld devices.
Typically, box mods are rectangular, but there are countless variations. Some look like basic boxes with sharp, straight angles, while others feature more ergonomic, curved designs. Some don’t look like boxes at all! Materials include plastic, metal, and wood in practically every color you can imagine.
Features and functions
A box mod that incorporates an advanced chipset is called a “regulated box mod.” The chip offers protection features and lets you adjust settings such as the power delivered to the atomizer. These mods usually have a screen that displays all the necessary information.
The most common features found in modern regulated box mods are variable wattage, variable voltage, and temperature control. More advanced chipsets may offer other functions, such as preheat, power curves, boost mode, and more. While these features are not essential, they do allow for a fully customizable vaping experience.
Unregulated box mods may use chips with protection features, but they do not allow power adjustments or advanced functions. Mechanical mods take this concept even further. They don’t have any chips, wiring, or protection features. For this reason, mech mods are intended for advanced vapers with an in-depth understanding of Ohm’s law and battery safety
Battery
Some box mods are constructed with fixed internal LiPo batteries that recharge via USB cables. Others are designed for removable Li-Ion batteries that can be recharged internally (USB) or, preferably, on an external charger.
A box mod with removable batteries may incorporate one to four rechargeable Li-Ion batteries. One or two is most common. Internal battery box mods come in a variety of capacities, ranging from under 1000 mAh to over 5000 mAh.
The power of a box mod depends on both the chipset (regulated mods only) and the battery’s capabilities. Generally, the larger an e-cig mod is, the greater power you can expect.
Price point
Box mod prices vary, but most cost between $40 and $100. Devices that feature more advanced DNA, Dicodes, and Yihi chips usually cost $100 or more.
High-end or handcrafted mods are priced considerably higher. These box mods are often made in very limited quantities and are generally considered collector’s items. Obtaining them may require joining waiting lists in social media groups, although a handful of vendors stock them from time to time. Their price depends on the materials used, demand, and the time and effort required for manufacturing.
Evolving technology of box mods
Box mod tech advancement is happening in three major ways: reviving older concepts, refining, and developing game-changing innovations that reshape the vaping market.
Product revival
A good example is the revival of the squonk mod. Originally introduced in the early days of vaping, bottom-feeding mods were expensive and hard to find. Their popularity also suffered due to a lack of affordable bottom-fed atomizers. Years later, when the first mass-produced squonk mod was finally released, it took the market by storm. Another significant product revival was the AIO (or “boro mod”). Much like squonkers, they began as rare, high-end devices, but became an industry staple much later.
Refining
The classic box mod will never go out of style, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be improved. Modern devices are often more compact, as manufacturers have developed more efficient internal designs. Water-resistant mods are also more common, screens are more elaborate and colorful, and larger 510 platforms can accommodate wider tanks. The list goes on and on. Manufacturers are simply taking a good idea and making it incrementally better.
Changing the game
An example of this kind of drastic innovation came from Evolv and their DNA chipsets. Temp control (or TC) emerged initially in 2014 and quickly became an essential feature of most mods. Providing a consistent vape experience and avoiding dry hits was a game-changing innovation. The introduction of larger 21700 batteries also moved the industry forward. 21700s offered considerably more power than most 18650s, redefining the potential of small, single-battery devices.
What is a squonk mod and what is squonking?
A squonk mod (also known as a squonker or bottom-fed device) is a vape mod with a built-in silicone bottle. Simply squeezing this bottle feeds e-liquid through the 510 connection to the atomizer. In essence, a squonk mod eliminates the need for dripping through the mouthpiece by providing a tank section for your atomizer. Press the bottle, wait for your wicks to saturate, and vape: that’s it! The most common atomizers used for squonking are RDAs, but some RDTAs are also compatible.
Squonking is, in fact, nothing new. It all started with ECF user TheCarlos49 back in 2009 with his handmade Juice Box. Soon after, REO was the first company to bring a squonker to the market with their REO Grand squonk mod.
Squonk mods stayed in high-end enthusiast territory until the release of the Yiloong Geyscano in 2015, followed by Steam Crave’s 60W squonker (2016). Affordable options like the KangerTech Dripbox and Eleaf Pico Squeeze brought further renewed interest. But when the original Vandy Vape Pulse was released in 2017, squonking became the hottest trend in vaping. The rest is history.
Bottom fed atomizers: the other half of the equation
A squonking or bottom-fed atomizer is nothing more than a rebuildable atomizer with a small modification to facilitate juice feeding. The atomizer's 510-positive pin is hollow, allowing e-liquid to pass through.
After squonking became popular, nearly every RDA began including a bottom-feeding pin. Interest in squonking has declined in recent years, but the pin inclusion remains mostly standard. In fact, every product on our best RDAs list is squonkable.
Types of squonk mods
Squonk mods are typically categorized the same way as box mods. They come in single- and dual-battery formats with various styles and features, and include both regulated and unregulated options.
Regulated squonkers are the most common and beginner-friendly. They use the same chipsets found in standard box mods. Their features usually include variable wattage and variable voltage, along with a suite of safety protections and advanced options.
Unregulated squonk mods, including mechanical squonkers, deliver power directly from the battery. The former may offer some protection features, but the latter does not. Regardless, both device types require a thorough understanding of battery safety and Ohm’s law. Not recommended for beginners.
Should you get a squonker?
Squonk mods are not ideal for new vapers. Building, wicking, squonking—that's a lot of new territory! However, if you enjoy RDAs but find dripping inconvenient, then yes, you should get yourself a squonker. Squonk mods typically cost the same as traditional vape mods, and the vast majority of RDAs include bottom-feeding pins, so squonking is basically a bonus feature. Want to go out and about without having to carry bottles with you? No problem! Fill the squonk bottle, and you’re set for the day.
What’s the best box mod or squonk mod for you?
Which box mod or squonker you use depends on what you plan to pair it with. While it makes sense to have as much battery capacity as possible, some mods are more appropriate than others for a given atomizer. These are the most common ranges that atomizers fit into.
Watts needed for specific types of atomizers
- MTL atomizers (tight draw; low vapor volume): 10 to 25 watts
- RDL atomizers (semi-restrictive draw; medium vapor volume): 25 to 45 watts
- Direct lung atomizers (airy draw; large vapor volume): 50 to 100 watts
- Competition-style atomizers (wide open draw; huge clouds of vapor): 100 to 200 watts
Batteries needed for specific types of atomizers
- MTL atomizers: single 18350 or 18650 battery
- RDL atomizers: single 18650 or 21700 battery
- Direct lung atomizers: single 21700 battery, or dual 18650 or 21700 batteries
- Competition-style atomizers: dual 18650 or 21700 batteries
It’s always recommended to pair your attys and mods appropriately. Sure, a big mod with multiple batteries would work for an MTL tank, but it’s overkill unless you need days of runtime. However, when it comes to power-hungry atomizers or sub ohm tanks, a multi-battery mod is essential for top performance. A single 18650 device might technically work, but the battery will drain fast, and the experience will be underwhelming.
Before buying a vape box mod, think about the amount of vapor, warmth, and restriction (draw) you want. The more vapor, the more power (watts and batteries) you’ll need. If fogging up a room is not a priority, lower wattage and single battery options will suit you fine.
The Lost Mary VIZ is a 55K-puff disposable with 50 mg nic salt, USB-C charging, 360° LED lighting, visible e-liquid, and a satisfying MTL draw.
Our OXVA NeXLIM 2 and NeXLIM 2 Mini review covers performance, battery life, build quality, and the new UNITECH 3.0 pods. Is it worth the upgrade?
The Cyclone Gust Pro 20K is a nicotine-free disposable vape with adjustable ice levels, turbo mode, and satisfying performance. Read our full review.
The VOOPOO ARGUS G4 and G4 Mini take the series to another level, featuring 3.5 mL multi-ohm pods and 1650 mAh batteries. Read our review to learn more.
Because of declining cigarette sales, state governments in the U.S. and countries around the world are looking to vapor products as a new source of tax revenue.
A list of vaping product flavor bans and online sales bans in the United States, and sales and possession bans in other countries.
A closer look at PouchPoint, an online nicotine pouch store offering competitive pricing, wide selection, and a smooth shopping experience.
A practical, data-driven breakdown of where the vape market is heading—and how to position your business ahead of regulatory and category shifts.
Find Your Perfect Product
Navigate our vape database precisely by customizing your filters. Find products tailored to your needs with options like price, category, and more.
Sort by:
Rely on Our Expertise
At Vaping360, we take pride in our deep expertise and years of experience in the vaping industry. Our dedicated team of professionals is committed to leveraging their extensive knowledge to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
