Smok R-KISS Kit Review
Today, we're checking out the SMOK R-KISS kit, a "back to basics" mod paired with the TF Mini V2 tank. SMOK calls it "Keep It Simple and Stupid." This compact dual 18650 mod offers just wattage control—no fancy features or flashy lights. It's ultra-portable and focuses on simple wattage vaping. I haven't used an SMOK product since my old Alien 220W and TFV8 Cloud Beast tank, so I'm excited to see how they've evolved. Will the R-KISS bring a refreshing change for SMOK? Let's find out! Disclaimer: I received the SMOK R-KISS kit for this review. All opinions are my own based on my experience and testing.
What's In The Box?
The SMOK R-KISS kit comes with everything you need to get started. Inside the box, you'll find the SMOK R-KISS Mod in Red/Black and the SMOK TFV-Mini V2 Tank, also in Red/Black. Two coils are included: the Mini V2 A1 Coil and the Mini V2 A2 Coil. Additionally, the box contains a USB cable, spare parts, and a user manual to guide you through setup and use.
Specs and Features:
TF Mini V2 TankThe TF Mini V2 Tank measures 25.4x65mm and has a capacity of 2ml for the EU edition and 5ml for the standard edition. It uses Mini V2 A1 and A2 coils. The A1 coil has a resistance of 0.17 ohms and is rated for 90-140W, while the A2 coil has a resistance of 0.2 ohms and is rated for 70-120W. The coils are wicked with antibacterial cotton. The tank features a sliding locking top fill cap and bottom adjustable airflow. It is available in Black/Red, Red/Black, Silver/Black, Gold/Black, Navy Blue, and Prism Chrome.
R-KISS ModThe R-KISS Mod measures 78x44x28mm and is powered by two 18650 batteries (not included). It weighs 120.3g and features a TFT colour display. The output range is 6W to 200W, and it supports resistances from 0.1 to 2.5 ohms in variable wattage (VW) mode. The mod has a side firebar, is firmware upgradeable, and allows you to select different screen colour schemes. It is available in the same colours as the tank.
Design and Build Quality:
The SMOK R-KISS kit impressed me with its build quality. The paintwork is durable and remains in perfect condition even after a month of use, including being carried in pockets and placed on various surfaces. The 510 connector is gold-plated and spring-mounted, providing a good throw for longer pins. The side firebar has a satisfying click, and the up and down buttons are equally responsive. The USB port is conveniently located below and between these buttons for easy charging, though I recommend using an external battery charger. The sliding battery door can be stiff, but this ensures it stays securely closed.
The TF Mini V2 tank has smooth threading and precise O-ring tolerances. The airflow control is easy to adjust and stays in place. The slide-to-open top fill mechanism is secure and prevents leaks, a significant improvement over older models like the TFV8, which had issues with the top cap opening unintentionally.
Hand Feel:
The R-KISS kit feels great in hand. Its compact size makes it perfect for on-the-go use. The fire button is comfortable to use whether you prefer your fingers or thumb. The centred 510 connection is a nice touch, though larger atomizers will overhang due to the mod's small size. Overall, it offers a very comfortable and ergonomic vaping experience.
Menu Functionality and Firmware Upgrades:
The R-KISS mod is all about simplicity. There are no complex menus to navigate; it's pure wattage mode. The display shows battery life, ohms, volts, a puff counter, and the current wattage. Changing the screen colour is easy—press the up and down buttons simultaneously. To turn the mod on or off, click the fire button five times quickly. Firmware upgrades are straightforward and can be done via the included USB cable, making it easy to keep your device up-to-date with the latest features and improvements.
Aesthetics:
The R-KISS mod looks sleek with its clean, cuboid shape and two-color design. The finish is durable and resists fingerprints, maintaining a neat appearance without needing constant cleaning. The simple design is a refreshing change from mods with flashy LEDs and overly complex aesthetics. The focus on simplicity extends to the overall design, which is both functional and visually appealing.
TF Mini V2 Tank:
The TF Mini V2 tank includes two coils: the Mini V2 A1 (0.17 ohms) and the Mini V2 A2 (0.2 ohms). The A1 is a single mesh coil rated for 90-140W, while the A2 is a dual-core coil with a cobra-style mesh rated for 70-120W. The tank features bottom-fed airflow that is easily adjustable. The airflow control is smooth and stays in place once set. However, the drip tip is a proprietary 16mm design, which may limit customization options.
Performance:
Filling:
- Hold the tank firmly and push the locking button.
- Move the top cap out counterclockwise counterclockwise.
- Fill with e-liquid through the small kidney-shaped hole.
- Close the top cap until the locking button clicks into place.
Changing Coils:
- Unscrew the drip tip and top cap.
- Remove the old coil.
- Install the new coil and prime it with e-liquid.
- Reassemble and fill the tank.
- Let the tank sit for a few minutes to allow the cotton to saturate.
Mini V2 A1 Coil: The A1 coil was disappointing, with poor flavour and a short lifespan. It consumed e-liquid quickly and burned out within three days, leaving a burnt taste.
Mini V2 A2 Coil: The A2 coil performed better, producing denser vapour and improved flavour. It lasted 12-14 days before the flavour dropped, making it the better of the two coils. Adjusting the airflow to two-thirds closed improved performance but caused the tank to heat up quickly.
R-KISS Mod: The R-KISS mod performed well with quick firing and accurate coil recognition. It matched well with my favourite RDAs and delivered consistent power. Testing it against a DNA 250c chip showed comparable performance in terms of heat, flavour, and vapour production, indicating the mod's reliability.
Pros:
R-KISS Mod:
- Centered 510 connection
- Compact dual battery design
- Simple user interface
- Solid build quality
- Good battery life
TF Mini V2:
- Easy sliding top fill with lock
- Smooth airflow control
Cons:
R-KISS Mod:
- Larger atomizers will overhang
- No screen/fire button lock function
- No temperature control (subjective)
TF Mini V2 Tank:
- Average coil longevity
- Excessive airflow
- Muted flavour
- Proprietary drip tip
- 2ml capacity for EU version
Final Verdict:
The SMOK R-KISS mod is impressive, though the TF Mini V2 tank is a letdown. The mod's simple UI and compact size make it great for beginners and experienced vapers alike. Its build quality, ease of use, and performance are standout features. However, the tank's performance could be better, particularly in terms of coil longevity and flavour delivery. I'd love to see more innovation from SMOK in their tanks, similar to what they've achieved with this mod.
Q: How do I fill the TF Mini V2 tank?
A: To fill the tank, hold the tank firmly and push the locking button. Then, move the top cap counterclockwise, fill it with e-liquid through the small kidney-shaped hole, and close the top cap until the locking button clicks into place.
Q: How do I change the coil in the TF Mini V2 tank?
A: To change the coil, unscrew the drip tip and top cap, remove the old coil, install the new coil and prime it with e-liquid, reassemble the tank, and let it sit for a few minutes to saturate the cotton.
Q: Does the R-KISS mod have temperature control?
A: No, it focuses on wattage control and does not include temperature control features.
Q: How do I change the colour theme on the R-KISS mod's screen?
A: To change the colour theme, press the up and down buttons simultaneously and cycle through the available options.
Q: Can I update the firmware on the R-KISS mod?
A: Yes, firmware upgrades are available on SMOK's website and can be done using the included USB cable.
Q: What coils are compatible with the TF Mini V2 tank?
A: The TF Mini V2 tank is compatible with Mini V2 A1 and A2 coils, with resistances of 0.17 ohms and 0.2 ohms, respectively.