Another Update: Zen DNA30 Clone - Short Review

[kh888]

I just received my Zen DNA30 clone today and while it is not perfect, I am very pleased with it, thus far...especially for the price point.

I am using it in 18500 mode and while I did order the 18650 tube, I can say that I will never use it. The form factor in 18500 mode is absolutely perfect. It is perfect in the hand - not too small and not too large. Admittedly, I am a fan of smaller mods and this one fits that description, while still being comfortable and easy to navigate.

I am currently running it with a Kayfun Lite at 1.7 ohms and still playing with the VV to determine where it hits best. That said, I have found that the vape is very smooth and not harsh, which I have definitely experienced with other DNA30 mods.

For a clone, I would rate it a "B" in terms of overall build and quality. The threads were definitely dirty upon arrival and needed a good cleaning. However, after wiping it down and applying some Noalox to the threads, all seemed to operate well. The buttons to regulate power are nicely positioned, yet they stick out farther than I had anticipated. After a few more days of use, I will likely take a file to them and bring them down just a bit. This is my personal preference and some may prefer how much they protrude.

The battery tube itself is not perfectly aligned with the body and you will see in the photos attached that it is slightly off center. Again, I don't expect this to be a perfect mod, especially for the price point, and it is something that does not really bother me. Having said that, please note that I am pretty particular with machining, so my "criticism" should be put into perspective.

As for the display, it is clear and easy to read. It is a typical DNA30 in terms of what is displayed, but I do find it easy on the eyes and even without my "readers" I can actually read it without issue. This might be a bonus for the middle-aged crowd, as it is for me

I do prefer regulated mods to mechanicals, so this clone is a great fit into my collection. Will it replace my Provari Minis? I doubt it, but it will definitely hold a solid place for my everyday vaping needs. I am not into sub-ohm vaping and my power needs are not all that great. However, I am very particular about form factors and that is what brought me to the Zen in the first place.

If your budget allows, I would say this mod is worth the investment. I cannot speak to how well it will hold up over time, but my initial impressions are definitely positive.

I ordered my clone from Focalecig.com through the US warehouse. Shipping was two days and as always, the service from Focalecig was exceptional.

 

[AdamSenior]

can you confirm this thing has a yihi chip in it? I have heard people saying it has the chdna chip in it. does need a click to wake up befor you vape?

 

[kh888]

Yes, it does need a click to wake it up. For some, this might be an irritant, but for me, it does not bother me at all.

Hope that helps!

 

[AdamSenior]

Yes, it does need a click to wake it up. For some, this might be an irritant, but for me, it does not bother me at all.

Hope that helps!

ya I am thinking they are full of shit saying it has a yihi chip ibn it. It sounds like the regular hana clone chip

 

[MKPM]

If it correctly reads resistance, then it's a YIHI

 

[kh888]

Here is a close up of the display:

 

[xboomer]

C'mon people...It doesn't have a Yihi chip. Besides...who would waste a Yihi chip on a 18490/500 battery? You can see from the pic above that it is a trash chip from china that has a rep as a poor clone of the the obsolete Evolv DNA 30. You know,,,like the crappy clone chip that is in the Hana fakes.

Nothing to see here...

 

[Scuba-Matt]

C'mon people...It doesn't have a Yihi chip. Besides...who would waste a Yihi chip on a 18490/500 battery? You can see from the pic above that it is a trash chip from china that has a rep as a poor clone of the the obsolete Evolv DNA 30. You know,,,like the crappy clone chip that is in the Hana fakes.

Nothing to see here...

The ZNA clone made by Wotofo (A-Mod) has the YiHi sxa300 chip inside.

 

[AdamSenior]

The ZNA clone made by Wotofo (A-Mod) has the YiHi sxa300 chip inside.
The ZNA clone sold by Focalecig has the cloupor chip

ok I thought Focalecig was selling the wotofo version?

 

[kh888]

ok I thought Focalecig was selling the wotofo version?

Based on this, I would guess it is the wotofo:

http://vapingunderground.com/threads/focalecig-us-warehouse-wotofo-zna-30-contest-givaway.17521/

 

[Otto Dafe]

Yeah, also this.

 

[AdamSenior]

Ya but the review on Focalecig site for the zna one guy said it isn't a yihi chip. I won't be buying this until I know for sure. I have all ready pre-ordered the tobeco zna 18650 36 watt clone.

 

[kh888]

Ya but the review on Focalecig site for the zna one guy said it isn't a yihi chip. I won't be buying this until I know for sure. I have all ready pre-ordered the tobeco zna 18650 36 watt clone.

Out of curiosity, where did you order the Tobeco?

 

[Scuba-Matt]

It looks like if you buy the ZNA off the US seller Focalecig site its the Wotofo Amod with the YiHi sxa300 chip.

 

[AdamSenior]

Out of curiosity, where did you order the Tobeco?

http://www.vaportekusa.com/zgripper-36-by-tobeco/

 

[AdamSenior]

http://vapingcheap.com/zna-30-clone-review-a-mod-wotofo/

good read it says it has buck and boost so this chip does step down voltage.

 

[Nikkita6]

The Amod/Wotofo ZNA has a confirmed Yihi sxa300 chip.

 

[kh888]

Update: Unfortunately, my Wotofo ZNA has died. It will not make connection with any topper, with any center pin length. This was not the case initially.

I am hoping for a replacement cap from Wotofo. As always, Doris at Focalecig is doing all she can to help. But, it's ultimately up to the manufacturer and at this point, I am keeping my fingers crossed.


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[Garemlin]

Update: Unfortunately, my Wotofo ZNA has died. It will not make connection with any topper, with any center pin length. This was not the case initially.

I am hoping for a replacement cap from Wotofo. As always, Doris at Focalecig is doing all she can to help. But, it's ultimately up to the manufacturer and at this point, I am keeping my fingers crossed.


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This right here is why I am so hesitant about buying Chinese and knock-off regulated mods. With Mech mods it isn't that hard. It is a metal tube with a cap and a switch. Regulated devices there is so much that can go wrong in manufacturing. How you think the prices are so low?? They cut a ton of corners.

I really need another mod or two but won't buy a Chinese mod. Unless it is something inexpensive like the iStick.

 

[VapedCrusader]

This right here is why I am so hesitant about buying Chinese and knock-off regulated mods. With Mech mods it isn't that hard. It is a metal tube with a cap and a switch. Regulated devices there is so much that can go wrong in manufacturing. How you think the prices are so low?? They cut a ton of corners.

I really need another mod or two but won't buy a Chinese mod. Unless it is something inexpensive like the iStick.

Totally agree here.. I started reading this thread and of course by the end of it - the mod is no longer working lol.. typical.

 

[kh888]

While the Wotofo has not worked out as hoped, I still support Chinese mods. I have good luck with them, overall. I think all manufacturers, US or Chinese put out some lemons.

To me, the real question is whether or not Wotofo as a manufacturer will make these situations right and stand behind their product. IMO, there is not a manufacturer that has a spotless record. So, the variable for me is the support that comes after the purchase.

If we look at our televisions, cars, coffee pots, cell phones, etc., the vast majority of Americans support, in some capacity, those products not made in the US.

Overall, mechs are a much simpler design and yes, much less can go wrong. But, that is a result of the design itself, not from where it is manufactured.

I am sure some might disagree and that is understandable, this is only my opinion.


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[Garemlin]

While the Wotofo has not worked out as hoped, I still support Chinese mods. I have good luck with them, overall. I think all manufacturers, US or Chinese put out some lemons.

To me, the real question is whether or not Wotofo as a manufacturer will make these situations right and stand behind their product. IMO, there is not a manufacturer that has a spotless record. So, the variable for me is the support that comes after the purchase.

If we look at our televisions, cars, coffee pots, cell phones, etc., the vast majority of Americans support, in some capacity, those products not made in the US.


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The bad thing about Chinese mod makers is dealing with issues when they arise. Especially if you buy on ebay. At least with electronics most people buy at big box stores and can do a simple return. And yes most electronics are made off shore. But they are reputable companies with a long standing track record. With these cheap Chinese mods the whole concept of keeping the price low falls on sub-par parts, workmanship and building standards.

 

[kh888]

The bad thing about Chinese mod makers is dealing with issues when they arise. Especially if you buy on ebay. At least with electronics most people buy at big box stores and can do a simple return. And yes most electronics are made off shore. But they are reputable companies with a long standing track record. With these cheap Chinese mods the whole concept of keeping the price low falls on sub-par parts, workmanship and building standards.

That can be true, too. That is why I mentioned that what will be the test for me is whether or not Wotofo comes through. I have had other Chinese mods fail and the mfg has stood behind them...time will tell on Wotofo.


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[kh888]

Another update: So I heard back from Doris at Focalecig and Wotofo will send out a replacement top cap for the mod. This is great news, as it should take care of the issues I have been experiencing. I also wanted to thank Wotofo for standing behind their product - nicely done.

Thank you to Doris, who has been amazingly helpful through this process!


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[VapedCrusader]

Another update: So I heard back from Doris at Focalecig and Wotofo will send out a replacement top cap for the mod. This is great news, as it should take care of the issues I have been experiencing. I also wanted to thank Wotofo for standing behind their product - nicely done.

Thank you to Doris, who has been amazingly helpful through this process!


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That is great to hear - and @Doris does provide great customer service