DNA 200 & LiPo Batteries: The New Craze | Mod Reviews
Box mods climbed from 75 watts to 100, then 150, and in 2016 the hot new thing was 200 watts. If you wanted one of these cloud machines back then, our advice was to pick a mod built on a genuine Evolv DNA 200 chip.
This is our 2016 look at three DNA 200 mods and the lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries that power them, plus battery-handling advice that still applies to any rechargeable device. None of these mods are sold on our site, so read this as history rather than a buying guide.
Short version: The DNA 200 mods we liked ran on built-in LiPo packs. LiPo cells need careful handling: charge on a fireproof surface, never leave them charging unattended, and stop using any battery or charger that shows damage.
Why DNA 200 mods used LiPo packs
As far as we knew at the time, the 200-watt mods built on Evolv’s chip required a LiPo battery pack rather than loose 18650 cells. Our understanding was that this grew out of problems with high-wattage mods running several 18650s: if one cell failed, or even failed to charge fully, the results could be disastrous. A single three-cell LiPo pack was meant to avoid that problem.
If you use a multi-cell device today, our guides to recommended vaping batteries and mechanical mod battery safety explain why matched, undamaged cells matter.
Three DNA 200 mods we recommended
HCigar VT200
We really liked this mod. It runs on a LiPo battery, but you could buy extras and replacements. Seasoned vapers would know how to change the pack, though most people would not. The vape was as consistent and powerful as any we had used, and we actually ran it lower than we normally would on other mods. Whether that was the Evolv chipset or simply a great mod, it impressed us.
The downside is the LiPo battery itself. You cannot drop in fresh cells, so it is more of a pain when you are not near an outlet.
Lavabox DNA 200 by Volcano
We have always been fans of Volcano products, and the one-year manufacturer warranty the brand offered was a great plus. We did not own a Lavabox, but we owned plenty of other Volcano gear and rated its power delivery above the competition. This is also a LiPo device, and we heard good things about its battery life, though that always depends on the wattage you run. We also loved the interchangeable sleeves, which let you switch up the color.
200W Tuglyfe box mod
If you are into unique colors, the Tugboat DNA 200 mods were great picks, with the same capabilities as the other two and distinctive blood-splatter patterns. Flawless was known for its signature mod designs, and the very square edges suit anyone who likes a boxy look.
Expert note: lithium polymer batteries
LiPo batteries have been around for a long time. Radio-control hobbyists have used them for years in advanced RC cars, and the same type of battery powers many of the smartphones and laptops we use every day. In vaping, you find them in regulated box mods like the ones above.
LiPo cells rely on a protection circuit, and when something goes wrong, the reaction can be extremely violent. The big danger is thermal runaway: a rise in temperature changes conditions in a way that causes a further rise in temperature, an uncontrolled feedback loop that often ends destructively.
LiPo battery handling tips
- LiPo batteries have very sensitive charging characteristics and may burst into flames or explode if not handled properly.
- Always charge on a fireproof surface.
- Never leave charging batteries unattended.
- Do not use any rechargeable battery or battery charger that shows visible damage.
- Always store and transport rechargeable cells in a protective, non-conductive case.
- Dispose of all battery cells and chargers in line with local laws.
Many vapers have since moved to pod systems and disposable vapes, but these charging rules apply to any device with a rechargeable battery. For more, read our guide to vaping battery chargers.
WARNING: This product contains nicotine. Nicotine is an addictive chemical. For adults 21+ only.