SKE Crystal Plus Pod Vape Kit Review

SKE Crystal Plus Pod Vape Kit Review

Additional Testing By:  
Alex,   Trevor,   Madeline

Does the performance of the SKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit match the beauty of its cut gem appearance? We put it through its paces to see how good it really is...

About The Brand

Sikary, the company behind the SKE vape brand, launched in 2013 in Shenzhen, China. Since then, they have become one of the top vape device manufacturers in the world, employing over 1,500 workers, with an enviable reputation for innovation and commitment to research and development.

In the UK, their SKE brand is known primarily for its hugely popular disposable vape ranges, including the Crystal Bar and the tiny, shiny Amare.

Their products have a distinct aesthetic that sets them apart from other brands. In a marketplace dominated by comparatively plain-looking cylinders from Elf Bar and flatter neon one-colour plastics from VooPoo disposables, SKE's products stand out like diamonds, all glittering and sparkling.

As has been the trend of late for vape brands, SKE recently branched out into the pod kit market to offer a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to their single-use disposables. And it is their first foray into this marketplace that is the focus of this review.

About The Device

Like its close cousin, the Crystal Bar, the Crystal Plus Pod Kit has that instantly recognisable SKE look: an attractive, transparent diamond-cut outer casing over a dramatic, boldly-coloured body, resembling crystal in both appearance and texture. Both ranges have that sleek and stylish feel.

With the UK's legislation and technological limitations, it is becoming more challenging for products to distinguish themselves in an oversaturated market with so many vapes built to the same specifications. The fact that SKE's trademark crystalline, translucent appearance is now much imitated (the sincerest form of flattery) but not yet rivalled shows that SKE have managed to achieve this successfully. Currently, the SKE Crystal Plus is the only Crystal style, rechargeable pod kit on the market, so SKE have achieved a first yet again.

The Packaging

In contrast to the device, the packaging for the Crystal Plus device and the pods have a simple, clean-looking design with a muted grey and white colour scheme. There are just a few slight colour pops from a picture of the device, the flavour name, the warning symbols, and the QR code (for you to scan for authenticity) on the reverse and the side. The packaging looks grown up, modern and a little 'techy'. 

SKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit With Pod Exploded ViewSKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit Colours AvailableSKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit Device And Pods Packaging

SKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit & Crystal Plus Prefilled Vape Pod with rubber bungSKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit Hand Shot  

The Device

The device arrives pod-less, part-charged, and includes a USB-C charging cable. Including a charging cable may seem like a minor benefit, but it is no longer the norm. A charging cable provides convenience for customers new to vaping or those needing a spare cable to recharge multiple devices, so this will be useful to many.

The Crystal Plus device feels quite weighty and angular to hold. As mentioned, it has a coloured body surrounded by an angular transparent plastic shell. They have achieved a lovely crystal appearance with this device. The USB-C charge port and two airflow holes are on the flat metal base.

The Pods

The Crystal Plus Pods look as substantial as the device and are visibly well-paired. They are made from gold and clear plastic, giving excellent visibility to the e-liquid within. They do, however, have the most bizarre hygienic rubber bung to protect them from dust and dirt contamination before first use. The nearest thing I can describe its likeness to is a mini toilet plunger with the handle sticking out of the top of the mouthpiece!

You are instructed to pull this handle to use the pod, but in practice, I found you need to pull quite hard! After a bit of stretching, it does break off with a resounding pop and gives you the confidence to repeat next time with less concern!

Now, a word of caution, as I learned the hard way with a burnt, disgusting dry hit and one pod thrown straight in the bin. These pods are not your typical vape-straight-out-of-the-box pre-filled disposable pods. Once the bung has been removed, they must be left for a little while. I assume this process must release the e-liquid onto the coil. If so, the Crystal Plus pods should be treated more as you would refillable/open pods before vaping, allowing at least 5 minutes for the e-liquid to penetrate the coil within the pod. It was a first for me, different from any other pre-filled pods I know on the market.

The magnets securing the pods are powerful; these are the most secure pods I have tried in a magnetic pod kit. You could drop it (not advised) or have it upside-down loose in a bag or pocket (again not recommended), and the pod would remain secure.

Each pod contains 2ml of nic-salt e-liquid in 20mg nicotine strength. Currently, the range includes 15 flavours, with many of the popular favourites found in the SKE disposable vapes range.

Flavour-wise, SKE has played it safe in this range, which is not a bad thing; there is a good reason why some flavours are perennial favourites across different brands. The key is, as ever, in the execution, as not all Blue Razz Lemonades taste equal!

In Use

The draw from the Crystal Plus is quite tight, so much so that I checked a few times to see if the air holes had been covered up! I like it, though, and it is far closer to a cigarette-style puff than the ELFA device I used hours before (which has a very loose draw). It takes noticeably more effort to inhale from this pod kit, producing a lot of vapour.

An accidental discovery by a friend: if you vape the Crystal Plus in low light conditions, even better in a dark area, the white LED light at the base illuminates the entire crystal-style outer body of the device and looks fantastic.

One thing to note (which turned out to be my tired eyesight) is that I couldn't see a flavour label stamped on the pod itself. It is there, along with the 20mg strength detail, but it is in such a tiny font, printed white on the clear plastic casing, which sits over a white pod core, that I could not make this out. This minor detail is fine if you have only one vape flavour on the go, but I found I had to store each e-liquid pod separately in the named empty boxes, so I didn't mix them up!

The Flavours

These Crystal Plus Pods, as with the disposable Crystal Bars and Elf Bar 600s, have very intense flavours. All had a hint of ice, and most had a lingering sweetness that stayed as an aftertaste for a good while after vaping. Even though the pods did appear leak-free, I questioned if some e-liquid made it onto my lips and into my mouth. It didn't; it was just that the flavours were so intense that you could actually taste them!

My favourite pod by far was the Blue Razz Lemonade, which had a definite berry taste and was rather lovely. Lemon & Lime had a brief scent of 'bathroom cleaner' to me, and Kiwi Passion Fruit Guava was just too potent (in a tropical fruit x 1000 way) but was not unpleasant.

After my initial disaster with the Cherry Ice pod, on my second attempt, I was able to taste test it and didn't find it to be very realistic in taste, just sweet and fruity.
If intense flavours are your chosen preference (and they are by far the most popular amongst vapers), you will be pleased to know that the e-liquid flavours in the Plus Pods retain a consistent intensity. Usually, pod kits deliver more muted flavour tones when compared to disposable vapes.

Brand:

SKE

Flavours in Range:

15 at the time of writing

Specifications:

  • Battery:  400mAh integrated
  • Re-chargeable:  Yes
  • Puffs:  Up to 600 between charges
  • Eliquid:  Pre-filled nic-salt e liquid Crystal Plus pods.
  • Nicotine Strength:  2% (20mg) within the compatible Crystal Plus pods range
  • Refillable: No
  • Coil: 1.2 ohm
  • Manufactured in:  China

Who is this product best for:

Lovers of the SKE Crystal Disposables

Comparable Products:

Elf Bar ELFA, Blu 2.0. Vuse ePod, YOOZ Mini

Do I recommend this product?

Definitely for vapers who love their intense flavours, snazzy devices and a tighter draw.

Reasons for buying this product:

  • Stunning crystal design
  • Long battery life
  • Good value for money
  • Intense disposable-style flavours
  • More environmentally friendly than disposables

Scores:

Taste:
Performance:
Battery Life:
Design & Build:
Features:

Overall Score:

4.4 out of 5

Test Panel Reviews

* The views of the panel are entirely their own and may not reflect the views of Vapourcore

Alex

Alex's Review

The SKE Crystal Plus is a vaporiser that uses different flavour pods that can be switched out for a variety of different experiences. It offers lighter tastes with low nicotine and creative flavours - great for new vapers or people who prefer a fruity taste instead of tobacco.

The product I received is a smooth pen shaped vape with a pink and blue gradient (Aurora Blue) colour way. When the vape does not have a pod in there is a circular hole with magnets inside to attach and hold them in place. The bottom of the vape features a clean silver square where you can use a USB C to charge, and a small LED that lights when vaping or charging or flashes when the vape runs out of charge.

This vape charges quickly and each pod lasts a fairly long time and comes with 2 of each flavour, so it is great value. The vape fits nicely in your pocket without taking up too much space. However, it is quite small and could be lost easily if you are not careful. Crystal vapes are known for their great disposable flavours, so it is good SKE can provide the same flavours and style whilst lasting longer and being better for the environment.

A feature I love - the pods drop into the top end of the vape device and slide very nicely into place. If the vape is not aligned the right way it will not lock into place. Instead it will twist into the right alignment and finish placing itself onto the magnets as you drop it in. I find this very useful as it means when your vape is in your pocket you know the pod is secure and that if it is not locked in place it will not smoke.

The battery life is not notably short but definitely doesn’t last very long either, and you will find that charge will run out before a flavour pod does. This is probably a good thing though and it does regain full charge very quickly.

The SKE Crystal Plus vape and flavours are all great. I would genuinely give the device a 5 out of 5 if it wasn’t for a minor leak of eliquid from the pod whilst it was in the vape, and another from a pod that I left in the box after having tried it. I opened the box to find it was wet and the majority of the liquid had leaked out. There was a tiny bit left, but this was not good.

Pods can be purchased at just under £6 in most places, and on vapourcore's website can be bought at 3 for £15, giving a price of £5 for one flavour box with two pods in. This is a good price for flavours as a disposable vape would be the same price for less use than even one of the pods. The device can be bought online at £7.95 which is a great price for a reusable vape as this is a one time purchase and only flavours need to be bought after this.

I believe the SKE crystal Plus resuable flavour pods are incredibly good and offer a good variety of tastes. The unique feature, most notably, would have to be the magnetic system that locks the pods in place. It is incredibly satisfying to hear and see it happen, and also it does keep the pod very safe. Even when dropped the pod stayed in.

The design is very sleek and the build is even better - smooth, plastic and sturdy. The packaging for the flavours also comes with a small rubber cord which is in the mouthpiece of the pods. This is to keep dust out and keep It clean until you use it. The tunnel that this cord is in does get dirty quite easily, and with it being see through you can see when there are pieces of dirt or dust in the tube. Solved quite easily with a swab or rolled up tissue or a pipe cleaner if you have it.

Overall the device is good. Flavours can become a little sickly, although taste great in short bursts. Flavours are varied but the pods can leak. Finally, it is a very simple vaporiser, great for all experience levels.

Pros:

  • Light nicotine hit
  • Great vibrant flavours
  • Good colour design that resembles the taste
  • Good sleek packaging and hygienic
  • Magnet seal for pods
  • Short recharge time
  • Easy to use (no button, just breathe in through the pod once it is locked in)

Cons:

  • Risk of leak from flavour pods
  • Short charge life
  • Sometimes flavours can get repetitive and taste can linger in your throat
  • No warning when running low on liquid in a pod so you only know once you hit the vape and it has a burnt out taste.

Scores:

Taste:
Performance:
Battery Life:
Design & Build:
Features:

Overall Score:

3.8 out of 5
Trevor

Trevor's Review

When I tested the SKE Crystal Disposable vape range previously I was highly impressed with their look and taste, so when the new SKE Crystal Plus rechargeable device came out, I was more than keen to test them.

The packaging for this new range is very understated, and in my opinion it communicates a classic quality product inside that doesn't need to show off. You know, I think that they got this sot on, because that is what you get! Just like the disposable version, you get the solid crystal unit that lights up in a really cool way when in use, and a quality range of fruity and icy pods, but with this Plus device it can be recharged for use again and again.

Included in the box is a vape unit in the colour of your choice and a small USB C cable for charging. It is important to remember that in this box there is no starter pod, so you need to order some at the same time as the unit. I felt excited knowing that this SKE Crystal Plus pod system would be mine for continued use and not just a one time thing.

The unusual "rubber cap" which is a tube that is sticking out of the pod when you take it from the packet did throw me a little bit. I could not pull it out at first, so I double checked the instructions which said "pull out rubber cap and wait at least 90 seconds", but let me mention here that you do have to pull reasonably hard, which was surprising.

When you place the pod into the top of the unit it snaps into place with the help of magnets that align the pod with the battery in the base. The unit lights up with a white LED light in the bottom when charging.

The vape unit is clear plastic, almost glass like, with beveled edges that all aim to give it a crystal look, and a silver metal base that houses the USB C charging port. It has a hard and solid feel to it. The LED light in the base has the effect of lighting up the whole unit when in use, just like the disposable range. Inside the "crystal" is a colour tube with a colour scheme you choose when you purchase.

Pros:

  • The trendy unit itself and the way it lights up is unique to SKE
  • The pod flavours are definitely some of the best that you will find. Smooth, sweet and always give a satisfying draw.
  • The flavours are strong and I am impressed by them.
  • I am also impressed with the life of each pod and the battery after a full charge.

Cons:

  • The hard shiny plastic could be difficult for people with grip issues or when wearing gloves in the winter.

Scores:

Taste:
Performance:
Battery Life:
Design & Build:
Features:

Overall Score:

5.0 out of 5
Madeline

Madeline's Review

For the past week I have been using the SKE Crystal Plus Reusable Device (MTL) with Lemon and Lime, Kiwi Passionfruit Guava, and Blue Razz Lemonade pod flavours. All these pods being 20mg / 2ml nicotine.

The SKE Crystal Plus is a rechargeable device boasting a 400mAh battery, 11w/3.6v and c type charging. It uses disposable pods which are sold separately. When I saw the price of the device, I was surprised to discover it was only £7.95! It comes in a range of 5 colours - Aurora Blue, Aurora Green, Blue, Grey and Red. I have the blue colour version which I think it is a darker blue than shown in pictures online, but nonetheless is a beautiful colour which I don’t usually go for.

Until recently, I smoked predominately disposable vapes. I was going through one a day approximately - I was spending a great deal of money on this habit / hobby. Since integrating reusable devices in my routine (after first being sceptical) I have saved so much money!

This device is a much cheaper alternative to disposables. It will save you a great deal of money in the long run when compared to the SKE disposables range. It also offers the customer a much more resourceful and versatile option where you can swap flavours whenever you feel like a change.

The interchangeable pods are currently on offer at Vapourcore at a price of 3 for £15, which is a great deal considering there are 2 pods in a pack. It works out at £15 for 6 x 2ml pods, which I think is a steal when compared to other pods on the market.

Having used 3 pods, I would say on average one pod from SKE allows me over a day’s worth of e-liquid, which is on par with how quickly I usually go through 2ml. Each pod provides around 600 puffs, which is equivalent to a standard disposable vape.

The device is made of plastic and feels cheap, but accounting for the price, it makes sense that you are getting what you pay for. Regardless of the plastic feel, it looks lovely, with the device reflecting light, adding to the name 'Crystal Plus'. It feels exactly like the SKE disposable vapes. There is a single white LED light on the base of the device which lights up with every inhale. The base also includes a hole for the classic MTL experience. It feels lightweight and is very slim. It is easy to carry or slip in a pocket or bag.

I haven’t noted any leaking and this device has been upside down in my bag and lying on my sofa and bed. Furthermore, after using this device for a week I have not noticed any scratches or damage to the plastic casing - it still looks brand new!

The disposable pods are also plastic and match the device perfectly. The pods fit into the top of the vape seamlessly. The pods are only available in 1.1 ohm which is equivalent to the experience of a disposable vape. The e-liquid inside the pods is 50VG/50PG. There is a silicone tube in the pods mouthpiece which you must pull out before you draw from the device. I’ve never seen this before, and it is innovative. You have to pull the silicone tube quite hard to get it to come out, I was initially concerned it would snap or break but it is quite resilient.

The pods have a mesh coil, which is refreshing and enables a more potent flavour. After releasing the silicone tube, the e-liquid can soak into the mesh coil. It says on the packaging to wait approximately 30 seconds before inhaling to ensure the cotton is soaked in e-liquid. This is integral as if you do not wait you will get a horrible burnt taste and it could sour the whole pod.

The packaging is minimal, with a small cardboard box and plastic insert containing the device, charger cable and instruction manual. Whilst I am in two minds about packaging - I do love something extravagant and over the top as it gets me excited about opening and using a new vape - this is purely materialistic, and comes from my inner child. I appreciate SKE's minimal packaging here. It will go into the bin anyway, so it does not need to be wasteful and full of plastic.

The battery life of the device, from my observations, lasts roughly one day with continuous use throughout the day. This is standard for me and what I would expect. If you don’t use it continuously throughout the day, it potentially could last up to a week! The SKE Crystal Plus device does come included with a tiny charger cable, which is appreciated. I tried to charge it with other c type charging cables, and it did not work. I assume they were too high wattage for the device, so I would recommend sticking to the charger that comes with it.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend this device. For the price, design, and battery life it is an exceptional alternative to disposable vapes. The flavours are strong and accurate. One downside for me is that there is no airflow switch. It is understandable because of the price, but it makes a big difference to your vaping experience. I like being able to change from a lighter, cooler inhale where airflow isn’t restricted, to a warmer, harder hitting hit when the airflow is reduced.

The SKE Crystal Plus device allows people to make a conscious decision to help the environment. Previously when I used 1 disposable vape per day, I had such a big amount of waste and I felt like my personal impact on the environment was detrimental and was heavy on my conscience. I think the packaging for the device is down to the bare minimum which is appreciated as it is not a wasteful use of plastics.

The device is leakproof, easy to hold and boasts a lovely design in a range of colours to suit your personality or preference. In my opinion, it is trustworthy device and is a good competitor to similar reusable devices in the same price range. I would highly recommend this for beginners as it is cheap, easy to use, and the perfect alternative to disposable vapes.

Pros:

  • Cost effectiveness
  • It is more environmentally friendly
  • Good battery life
  • Interchangeable pod flavours
  • Great for beginners
  • Quality & price
  • Secure & leakproof
  • Pod flavours are strong and accurate to description

Cons:

  • I would recommend only using the charger included (which is very small)
  • Recycling the pods is difficult due to all the separate components.
  • No airflow switch.

Scores:

Taste:
Performance:
Battery Life:
Design & Build:
Features:

Overall Score:

4.5 out of 5

Product Taste Tests:

Cherry Ice
Cherry Ice
4.0 out of 5

Cherry Ice brings what feels like thicker, warmer smoke clouds and a taste that is very clearly cherry. I think it captures the flavour well and has a little kick which is great for vaping and particularly for more experienced vapers or smokers.

5.0 out of 5

A perfect addition to the SKE range of flavours, the fruity part has a Morello cherry edge to it and it also has plenty of cool included for the exhale. An instant classic for sure.

4.5 out of 5

What a really lovely and realistic cherry flavour this is, almost like that of cherry sweets. I vaped one pod alone for well over a day and was genuinely impressed with the taste and smell right to the end. I did find the taste faded with the pod nearly empty. I love that you can see the level of e-liquid remaining. Definitely a sweet, fruity, and enjoyable choice.

Overall Score:

4.5 out of 5
Lemon & Lime
Lemon & Lime
4.5 out of 5

I went through a whole 2ml Lemon and Lime pod for this test. This is one of my favourite flavours to use as it is nostalgic and takes me back to being on holiday when I was younger eating calypso lollies. It is refreshing and perfectly citrusy. Initially I get a sour lime hit, followed by a sweeter lemon flavour. This flavour is very potent and accurate to its description. It’s so refreshing that it feels perfect for a summer’s day.

3.0 out of 5

This flavour is very sweet and definitely resembles its name. Not the most tasty flavour, however, it doesn't linger and gives you a sweet burst.

5.0 out of 5

I am happy to report that one of my favourite flavours from SKE loses nothing when moving over to the pod system. Just like it's counterpart, it is fresh tasting with sweet lemon and tangy lime, perfectly blended, and with a cool exhale. It is everything you would want from a vape with this name, and tastes just like a summer drink on ice.

Overall Score:

4.2 out of 5
Kiwi Passion Fruit Guava
Kiwi Passion Fruit Guava
5.0 out of 5

This flavour can be a little overwhelming at first. Despite this, it does highlight the flavours in the name perfectly and gives a very fruity taste. I think this could get a little repetitive or even sickly if you have been using it for a long time, but used now and again it tastes great.

4.0 out of 5

This is a flavour I would never typically choose, but I wish I had given it more or a chance in the past! I was sceptical about trying it as I have previously tried the same flavour in disposable vapes and did not enjoy it. Although I am happily surprised, this would have to be my least favourite of the 3, but only because the other flavours are too good; the standard is very high.

The flavour immediately tastes complex, I could taste each individual fruit, almost one after the other. The guava is most notable to me. It is accurate and very sweet alongside the passionfruit, whereas the kiwi provides a more sour tanginess flavour which makes this a beautiful combination.


5.0 out of 5

This is a punch bowl of flavours blended together with the signature SKE coolness thrown in for good measure. It is very tropical tasting and is not backwards in coming forward with its bold aroma.

Overall Score:

4.7 out of 5
Blue Razz Lemonade
Blue Razz Lemonade
5.0 out of 5

A classic vape choice for many a vaper, this version gives you that little bit extra once you add the SKE taste profile. A hint of floral notes combined with cooling lemonade give this version of the classic a twist.

3.0 out of 5

Similar to Kiwi Passionfruit Guava, I believe the Blue Razz Lemonade flavour is a little too sweet and can get a bit sickly if used repeatedly. It is a nice taste, however, very sweet.

5.0 out of 5

This was my favourite out of the 3 flavours I tried, which was surprising as I’d never usually pick it. It tasted exactly like a blue raspberry slush puppy, but with a hint of sourness. Using this pod flavour has changed my opinion. I think this flavour is perfect for everyday usage. It is hard to pinpoint exactly how, but there is a fizziness to this flavour, as if you are drinking lemonade.

The flavour is so strong it hits you right away - something I don’t usually experience with reusable vapes in this price range. I ended up using both blue razz lemonade pods within the week I was reviewing this device – it was so moreish! I would recommend this to anyone who is open to trying it. I think it is a flavour that majority of users would love.

Overall Score:

4.3 out of 5

Conclusion

In an era where aesthetics matter in capturing market share, SKE has introduced the photogenic Crystal Plus pod kit with a dazzling diamond-cut exterior. It is perfect for those seeking to make a statement on a night out or as an Instagram accessory. But beneath its stylish exterior, the SKE Crystal Plus is more than just a pretty face.

The kit feels substantial and high-quality, setting it apart from dull, matte plastic competitors. The translucent nature of the pods allows for easy e-liquid level visibility. Attention to detail has been paid with the superb magnet system that secures pods and aligns them when inserted.

Similarly, SKE's e-liquids deliver robust, pleasing flavours. While the intensity may not suit everyone, SKE have gained many enthusiastic fans, and the pods are proving popular with Vapourcore customers.

It is worth noting that SKE have managed to deliver these excellent-tasting flavours with only a standard mesh coil. If they were to release a QUAQ coil-based device, surely the taste would be exceptional!
 
Like other pod kits on the market, the SKE Crystal Plus represents excellent value for money and offers a reduced environmental impact compared to the disposable versions. These factors seem less apparent, however, when confronted with the device's distinct appearance and impressive flavours, which have more of a wow factor than you encounter with most devices.

The SKE Crystal Plus checks most boxes, including aesthetics, durability, flavours, and convenience. With consumers shifting towards pod kits and disposables likely disappearing from the UK market soon, it looks promising for the SKE Crystal Plus. It is genuinely a true gem and a diamond in the rough!

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5 comments

I tried the Lemon and Lime Pods and they were great, A very refreshing taste. Highly reccomended.

Graham Jones Monday, 16 October 2023 | 11:46

Good to see you highlighting the environmental aspects of the device and packaging. I’ve been thinking about this lots and pod kits are the way forward.

Viv Monday, 16 October 2023 | 11:46

Good to see more choice in pod kits with the recent news am going to check this out

Grant Bourne Monday, 16 October 2023 | 11:52

A worthy addition to the SKE Crystal range- Keep up the good work

Amit Parmar Monday, 16 October 2023 | 11:46

Tried it , liked it , looks great. Looks sweet on Insta

Amy James Monday, 16 October 2023 | 11:46

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