Today we’re looking at and reviewing the newly upgraded Voopoo Argus G3 pod kit that’s just recently been released. It’s been a couple of years since the original Argus G came out which we reviewed back in May 2023, followed by the Argus G2 which we also reviewed back in June 2024.
Both the earlier Argus G and Argus G2 kits were a resounding success and have been the main stay of many pod kit users to date. Both these kits, along with a few others, used the Argus pods which introduced us to increased flavor, pod longevity and better overall performance.
This new Argus G3 still maintains a similar form factor to its earlier releases but while having some emissions from the Argus G2 such as dual activation and haptic feedback, has an increased 1500mAh capacity battery and comes with the new Argus V2 pods.
These new Argus V2 pods incorporate Voopoo’s proprietary iCOSM code technology which has been upgraded to iCOSM 2.0. This incorporates an increased coil size (BIG COIL) which introduces a Liquid-Seal Shield for a leak free experience, Mega Core structure to eliminate flavor inconsistencies and Golden Cotton which utilizes aerospace technology for increased heat resistance resulting in improved performance.
For reference I’ve added a couple of photos showing a visual comparison between the 3 different Argus G releases and the Argus pod verses the Argus V2 pod. Note the different and bigger coil design of the Argus V2 pod.
As always we will give a quick overview covering the main points and features of the Argus G3 and then jump into the main body of the review covering every possible detail.
Overview of the Voopoo Argus G3
The Argus G3 is an auto draw Mouth-To-Lung (MTL) and Restricted-Direct-To-Lung (RDL) pod device. It’s powered by an internal 1500mAh capacity rechargeable battery with variable wattage control from 5W – 30W.
It auto senses the pod resistance, setting the optimum wattage and maximum selectable limit for the resistance of pod that’s fitted. Two Argus V2 pods are supplied with the kit; a 0.4 ohm and a 0.7 ohm which is pre-fitted. These pods are re-fillable (top fill) with a 2ml/3ml e-liquid capacity with fixed integrated coils so are NOT replaceable. These Argus V2 pods are compatible with all the Argus range of devices and the earlier Argus pods also work with the Argus G3.
Adjustable airflow control and a single control button are positioned on the side edges of the Argus G3, while the Type-C USB charging port, specified as 5V/2A is positioned on the base of the Argus G3 body. Charging is pretty quick, taking approximately 45 minutes when using the supplied charging cable and benefits from pass-thru so you can vape while it’s being charged.
A 0.96 inch TFT color display screen with a metal surround includes 3 different themes with 2 different animated graphics that highlight all the settings. These including wattage level, battery charge icon with percentage remaining, lock/unlock, pod/coil resistance, puff counter, 3 themes (Smart, Sport and Music) and the safety prompts.
Because the Argus G3 is no longer dual activated i.e. no fire button, accessing the different themes and adjusting the variable wattage levels are all done using a single side located control button.
Its design and shape is similar to the earlier Argus G2 which is a flattened tube style. The overall size of the Argus G3 including the Argus pod is 120mm high by 26.4mm wide by 15.1mm deep with a weight of 61.75 grams (3ml version). It’s manufactured out of Zinc Alloy with smooth colored front and back inlay panels so not only feels robust but has a great superior quality feel too.
There are a total of 9 different colors available in the Argus G3 range and the color we received to review was “Aurora Purple” which you can see in the photos throughout this review. Before you say……yes it looks pink and doing my street cred no good at all!
I would like to thank Siren at Voopoo for sending us the Argus G3 pod kit. As always this review is completely unbiased and is my honest opinion of my findings while using and reviewing the supplied kit. If you click on any of the buy buttons, we may receive a small affiliate commission but at no extra cost to you.
Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Review
Contents
- Overview of the Argus G3
- Features and Specifications
- What’s in the Box?
- Preparing to Use the Argus G3
- Voopoo Argus G3 Design and Appearance
- – Argus G3 Battery/Body
- – Argus V2 Pod
- Argus G3 Functionality
- Argus G3 Performance
- Argus G3 Battery Performance
- How do I Fill the Argus V2 Pod?
- When and How do I Change the Argus V2 Pod?
- How do I Charge the Argus G3?
- Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Price
- Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Review Verdict
- Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Review Summary
Argus G3 Features and Specifications
- Construction: Zinc Alloy and PCTG
- Dimensions: 120mm (H) Including Pod x 26.4mm (W) x 15.1 mm (D)
- Weight: 54.1 grams (61.75 grams Including Pod)
- Charging: Type-C USB 5V/2.0A
- Charging Time: 45 minutes (timed at 37 minutes)
- Resistance Range: 0.4 ohms – 3.0 ohms
- Output Wattage: Adjustable 5W-30W (pod dependant)
- Output Voltage: 3.3V – 4.35V
- Output Mode: Variable Wattage + Smart, Sport and Music Themes
- Battery Specification: Internal/Rechargeable 1500mAh Capacity
- Display: 0.96 inch TFT Color Screen
- E-Liquid Capacity: 3ml (2ml TPD)
- Filling Method: Top Fill
- Firing Method: Auto Draw Activation
- Coils: Non-replaceable
- Coil Material: Kanthal
- ITO Technology / Anti-Leak
- Drip Tip: Duckbill Style Mouthpiece
- Airflow: Adjustable Side Slider
- Pod Connection: Magnetic Top Loaded
- Pod Type: 0.4 ohm and 0.7 ohm
- Compatibility: All Argus Pods + ITO Coils with empty pod
- Vape Style: MTL + RDL
- Chipset: GENE.AI 2.0
- Auto Sensing Optimum Power and Maximum Wattage Limit
- 9 Different Colors
- 7 Safety Protections
Argus G3 – What’s in the Box?
- Voopoo Argus G3 Battery/Body
- Argus V2 Pod – 0.4 ohm
- Argus V2 Pod – 0.7 ohm (pre-installed)
- Type-C USB Charging Cable
- Lanyard
- User Manual
- Pod Compatibility Guide
Packaging of the Argus G3 Pod Kit
The packaging is a little different to that we normally see. Once you slide off the outer sleeve, the Argus G3 with the Argus V2 0.7 ohm pod attached sits within a foam cut-out that’s visible through a separate lift to open cardboard top front cover. This cover has the Argus G3 button instructions printed on it that gives you the initial operating settings.
Lift off the button instruction cover to gain access to the Argus G3. To the right side of the G3 you will see another lift open compartment.
Opening this compartments gains access to the Argus V2 0.7 ohm pod, Type-C charging cable, lanyard, pod compatibility guide and user manual. The overall dimensions of the packaging box measures 144mm x 93.5mm x 38.5mm.
On the front of the outer sleeve is a photo of the Argus G3 in the color of the included device together with the branding “Voopoo” and “Argus G3”. A shield to the left of the photo highlights “icosm code 2.0” The reverse side of the outer sleeve details the “Contents”, “Manufacturer’s Details”, “CE/Kite mark logo’s“ and the relevant safety warnings.
The right side of the sleeve has “Argus G3” with an “authentication sticker” and bar code with the color name of the included device. The left side displays 4 separate boxed icons; “icosm code 2.0. 30 days clean 100ml steady flavor”, “Argus Top Fill cartridge V2”, “1500mAh” and “0.96 inch TFT Screen”. Underneath these icons is Voopoo’s “QR Code”.
Preparing to Use the Voopoo Argus G3 Kit
When you first unbox your Argus G3 device, it comes pre-fitted with the 0.7 ohm Argus V2 pod. Before you can use your device, remove the pod and take off the thin film coil protector from the base plate of the coil and refit the pod.
Unplug the black silicone rubber e-liquid bung of the side of the Argus V2 pod, fill with e-liquid, refit the rubber bung and wait for 10-15 minutes before you turn on and power up the Argus G3.
5 quick clicks of the side mounted control button will turn the Argus G3 on. Because of the auto sensing “Smart” mode function, the Argus G3 selects the optimum wattage (16W for this pod). However, I would suggest altering the wattage (3 clicks of the control button) to its lowest value (5W) and take a few draws to pull e-liquid through the pod to slowly bed the new pod/coil in. Increase the wattage in 1W increments, each time taking a few draws until you reach the wattage that gives you your ideal draw (see note).
Note: The maximum wattage you can reach when using the pre-fitted 0.7 ohm pod is 18W because “Smart” mode limits the maximum output power for this coil type.
For reference, we’ve written a detailed description on all of the functions and how to select and adjust them in the Functionality section of this review.
Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Design and Appearance
Argus G3 Battery/Body
The Voopoo Argus G3 is constructed out of a Zinc Alloy frame with front and back hard coated colored in-lay panels which give it a lightweight yet robust quality look and feel. It measures 93mm tall (excluding the pod), 26.4mm wide by 15.1mm deep and weighs in at 54.1 grams. When the Argus V2 pod is attached, the overall height is 120mm and the combined weight is 61.75 grams.
It’s a tall slim sized MTL and RDL style auto draw device with variable wattage up to 30W. The wattage is adjustable in 1W steps from 5W-30W but also auto detects the resistance of the coil fitted in the pod being used and selects the optimum wattage (pod specific). In addition to this, it also limits the maximum allowable wattage that can be set for each coil/pod to prevent excessive power being applied to the coil.
Powered by a 1500mAh capacity internal rechargeable battery, it’s recharged using the supplied cable that comes in the kit via the Type-C USB charging port on the bottom of the Argus G3 which is specified as 5V/2A. Charging times are very quick and will fully charge the Argus G3 in approximately 45 minutes with the added benefit that the pass-thru function allows you to vape while it’s being charged.
Around this USB port is a black rubber in-lay pad that provides a soft cushion/anti-slip mat when the Argus G3 is stood upright. From experience with other devices, this pad is stuck on and has been known to come off. A small spot of glue and it’s back on as good as new.
On the left side edge of the Argus G3 frame (when viewing the TFT display face on) is a 10mm by 2.5mm rectangular control button that’s used to turn the Argus G3 on/off, access the different menu/screen settings and alter the variable wattage levels. There are no +/- control buttons as everything is done using the control button.
The right hand side edge of the Argus G3 body has a variable airflow control lever. This airflow slider only protrudes from the side casing by less than 1mm so there’s no chance of it getting caught or moving on its own.
Moving the slider uppermost closes (restricts) the airflow leaving just 1 very small hole so the airflow is not completely closed off. Moving the slider downwards will open the airflow intake where you can select 1, 2 or 3 larger holes to tailor your draw.
The Argus G3 incorporates a 0.96 inch TFT colored display screen that sits inside an outer metal serrated effect frame. On two of the nine different colors; Diamond White and Diamond Pink, the serrated effect is replaced with inset crystals. While it sounds a little bit blingy, it does add to the overall aesthetics of the Argus G3.
This TFT colored display highlights the usual parameters such as the current battery status with a numerical percentage value, numerical wattage value, pod resistance, a puff counter and lock/unlock padlock icon. It also displays the different prompts and safety feature notifications.
In addition, you can select 3 different themes, 2 of which have different animated graphics that are displayed when you draw on the pod:
- SMART: – Normal static display
- SPORT: – Multi-colored display with moving graphics when you draw
- MUSIC: – Multi-colored display with musical instruments when you draw
We will cover all the different options, functions and lighting effects in more detail in the Functionality section of this review.
Anyway, continuing with the design and appearance, the top of the Voopoo Argus G3 has the 11mm deep recessed oval opening for the Argus V2 pod to be located which can be fitted either way round. Within the pod recess are two gold plated spring loaded coil contact pins, a silver auto draw sensor and two rectangular bar magnets that line up with the pod.
Voopoo’s branding is limited to the brand name “ARGUS” screen printed on the front face of the body casing with a reflective chrome finish. On the reverse side of the casing, “Voopoo” is screen printed on the lower section of the Argus G3 body. The only other markings are inside the pod recess which includes the “CE” logo. Strangely enough there is no mention of the model type (G3) on the casing, something we also noticed was missing on the earlier Argus G and Argus G2.
The Argus G3’s GENE.AI 2.0 chip set ensures a multitude of safety features are maintained, such as:
- Overtime protection (5 seconds)
- Low battery protection (3.3V)
- Short circuit protection <0.4 ohms
- Over temperature protection
- Overcharge protection
- Output overcurrent protection
- Max power protection (pod specific)
There are a total of 9 different colors available in the Argus G3 range, these include:
- Diamond White
- Diamond Pink
- Snow Blue
- Moss Green
- Aurora Blue
- Aurora Purple
- Pearl White
- Space Grey
- Midnight Black
The color we received to test and review was the Aurora Purple version. It’s not a solid color but graded from light to dark purple. It also has a faint metallic wave pattern running through the color. Also as I mentioned earlier, the outer frame around the TFT display on the two diamond colors are embedded with diamonds (I don’t think they are real!).
Overall I feel the Argus G3 while having an increased battery capacity to 1500mAh, which is good, is not as versatile as the earlier Argus G2. Removing the fire button and not including a vape time reading on the Argus G3 for me is a step backwards. However, the inclusion of the V2 pods with this kit more than makes up for this shortfall.
Argus V2 Pod
Voopoo have just upgraded the original Argus pods that we’ve seen and been using in their other Argus pod kits and are debuting these new Argus V2 pods in the Argus G3 kit. The performance of the earlier Argus pods made these some of the best pods that were around at that time. These Argus V2 pods incorporate a bigger coil, improved aviation grade cotton and an encased copper liquid seal surrounding the coil for enhanced performance. No doubt these are again going to set a benchmark for others to follow.
These new Argus V2 top fill pods are backward compatible with the other earlier Argus kits and the Argus G3 also accepts the earlier pods. All the Argus pods and Argus V2 pods have a 2ml e-liquid capacity for TPD regions and 3ml for other regions. We received the non TPD version of the Argus G3 kit which contains the 3ml version of the two Argus V2 pods.
Worth pointing out that while these Argus V2 pods have integrated coils making them non-replaceable, Voopoo have released (sold separately) a replaceable (empty) coil version of the pod that accepts their ITO range of coils. These ITO coils are very good and negate the need for replacing the pod every time the coil degrades.
When first installing your Argus V2 pod, make sure you remove the thin plastic film from the base of the pod. The pods come shipped with this protector so they can’t be accidentally fired before e-liquid has been added.
Each of these pods are manufactured out of slightly tinted (smoked) lightweight PCTG material. The mouthpiece is a duckbill shape with a 9mm oval opening tapering to a 4mm circular cut out to cater for the MTL/RDL vape style.
Its overall dimensions are 37.7mm tall by 25.4mm wide and 13.4mm deep and the weight is 7.65 grams.
The Argus V2 pods top fill e-liquid port, even though it’s positioned on the side of the pod, doesn’t have to be removed from the Argus G3 in order to fill with e-liquid. It’s concealed behind a black silicone rubber plug that remains visible and accessible when the pod is fitted.
To gain access to the fill port, the silicone rubber bung has an indented arrow on it just below the coil resistance which identifies the end to open and be lifted away to gain access to the filling port. As with most of these bungs, it does help if you have finger nails to get under the flap otherwise it’s a bit tricky.
When the plug is opened, the other end of the silicone rubber flap will remain attached to the pod so it won’t get lost. It can be swiveled to the side to give easier access to the filling hole. This e-liquid fill port is a reasonable size measuring 4.5mm so is just big enough to accept short stubby e-liquid tip bottles.
On the underside of the pod are 2 small diagonally opposed air intake holes either side of the integrated coil and two bar magnets on the base of the pod that locate with the magnets in the pod recess of the Argus G3. Each Argus V2 pod is color coded on the base and bottom side edge for easy identification although saying this a bigger difference between the two colors would of been a little better. The two V2 pods in the kit are:
- 0.4 ohm V2 pod = Blue
- 0.7 ohm V2 pod = Green
Branding on these pods has “Voopoo” and “Argus” screen printed on one side of the pod and the “CE” markings on the other side.
The coil resistance “0.4 ohms or 0.7 ohms” is indented into the silicone rubber fill port bung above the directional arrow. It’s quite hard to clearly see the resistance markings in normal light but managed to take a good shot of them in bright light.
Inserting the pod is straight-forward enough, simply place the pod to the Argus G3 body recessed pod opening and it will slide into the recess and be locked and held in place by the magnets.
Removing the pod is carried out by grasping the pod mouthpiece and pulling away from the Argus G3 body/battery. It’s a reasonably secure fit but is quite easy to remove.
When the pod is inserted into the Argus G3 body pod recess, the TFT display will initially illuminate with the pod resistance and recommended min/max power levels for that pod then switch to the main display screen.
Argus G3 Lanyard
The Argus G3 kit as did the earlier Argus G and Argus G2 kits comes with a lanyard giving you that extra flexibility if you prefer to have it hanging round your neck rather than being carried in a pocket or bag.
It’s a black nylon lanyard with an orange yellow and brown pattern running through it and Voopoo printed along its length in several places. It’s easy to fit as the end of the lanyard has a black silicone rubber ring that stretches and slides over the Argus G3 body.
Voopoo Argus G3 Functionality
The Voopoo Argus G3 is a draw activated variable wattage 5W – 30W pod device, adjustable in 1W increments and has 3 different screen layouts; SMART, SPORT and MUSIC. The user interface is a 0.96 inch TFT multi-colored display screen with 2 different animated graphics that run when you draw on the pod when in the Sport and Music layouts.
Smart coil detect functions across each of the 3 different screen layouts where it sets the optimum (ideal) wattage when a pod is inserted and also limits the maximum selectable wattage for the pod type you’re using as shown below:
| Pod Resistance | Optimum Wattage | Argus G3 Min/Max Setting |
| 0.4 ohm Pod | 25W | 5W – 30W |
| 0.7 ohm Pod | 16W | 5W – 18W |
This preset optimum wattage can be adjusted above or below this value but the upper wattage limit for the pod cannot be exceeded. Once you reach the maximum wattage for the pod the TFT screen will display “MAX POWER”. The next press of the control button takes you back to the minimum value (5W).
There is no fire button nor + or – adjustment buttons, instead each of the control and menu changes are carried out by sequential presses of the rectangular control button on the side of the Argus G3 casing as follows:
- Control button pressed 5 times turns the device ON
- Control button pressed 5 times, POWER OFF selected, long press turns the device OFF
- Control button pressed 2 times enters SMART, SPORT and MUSIC layouts. Short press to highlight, long press to select
- Control button pressed 3 times enters the variable wattage mode. When flashing, short press to adjust
- When on, Control button pressed 5 times enters the Clear Puff, Lock/Unlock, Exit menu. Short press to highlight, long press to action
- When on, Control button pressed once wakes up the display. Long press switches screen on/off
Note: The control button needs to be pressed quickly for it to respond to the setting you want. For example, if you want to enter the variable wattage mode, you have to press the control button 3 times within 1 second.
Screen timeout is not adjustable on the Argus G3. After you’ve drawn on the mouthpiece or released the control button, the display will dim to half brightness after 10 seconds and then extinguish after a further 5 seconds.
Main Display Screen
The Argus G3 has 3 different selectable screen layout menu options; SMART, SPORT and MUSIC. Each one has a different screen layout as shown above.
Two of these layout menus; Sport and Music also display a different animated graphic when you draw on the Argus pod as shown above:
Irrespective of the layout screen you’ve selected, the TFT display includes the main operating parameters and read-out information as follows:
- Battery level indicator with remaining percentage of charge (%)
- Pod/Coil resistance reading
- Numerical Wattage level
- Lock / Unlock (see note)
- Puff counter
Note: The control button if pressed 1, 2 or 3 times will display a red locked padlock with the words “LOCK” underneath. Pressing the control button 5 times will activate the sub menu of power on/off, puff clear, unlock and exit. The draw activation always works irrespective if the Argus G3 is in lock or unlock mode.
Also, when the lock is activated, the main TFT display screen will show a closed padlock icon just below the numerical wattage value. When it’s unlocked, this padlock icon will be open (unlocked).
Smart, Sport and Music Modes
To access these layout modes, press the control button 2 times in quick succession. This brings up an option menu where you can then scroll down by pressing the control button each time until the one you want is highlighted.
When a layout is highlighted, press and hold the control button down and that layout will be selected.
Menu Options
Pressing the control button 5 times quickly within 1 second will bring up the Menu options. A single press of the control button while in this menu mode will scroll through these options and a long press of the control button will activate the mode that is being displayed.
- POWER OFF (turns the Argus G3 Off)
- PUFF CLEAR (clears the puff counter)
- LOCK (locks/unlocks the control button)
- EXIT (exits menu mode)
Safety Precautions and Prompts
The safety precautions and prompts displayed by the Argus G3 are as shown below:
| While Charging | TFT display briefly illuminates then extinguishes |
| Full Charge | TFT displays 100% and 0% remaining when the control button is pressed |
| While Vaping | TFT display illuminates and animated graphics run |
| Low Voltage Protection | Argus G3 turns off |
| No Load/High Resistance | TFT displays CHECK ATOMIZER |
| Over-Time Protection (5s) | TFT displays TIME OUT |
| High Temp Protection | TFT displays TEMP HIGH |
| Pod Inserted | TFT display illuminates |
| Pod Removed | No action |
Variable Wattage Adjustment
Adjusting the wattage is carried out by pressing the control button 3 times in quick succession. The numerical wattage number in the main display will start to flash. While the numerical wattage value is flashing, each press of the control button will increase the wattage value in 1W steps until it reaches the maximum limit for the pod you’re using as shown below. Holding the control button down will scroll through the wattage levels quicker.
- 0.4 ohm Pod = 30W
- 0.7 ohm Pod = 18W
If you want to reduce the wattage level, you have to first take it to its maximum wattage setting for the particular pod you’re using then the next press of the control button starts back at the lowest wattage value (5W).
Once you’ve selected the wattage you wish to vape at, the numerical value will continue to flash for a few seconds and then stop flashing. This wattage level will remain at this value and be stored until you repeat the procedure above.
Battery Status
When using the Argus G3, the current discharge status of the battery is displayed on the 0.96 inch TFT display screen with a numerical percentage value to the right of the battery icon.
When the battery reduces to <20% of its charge, the battery icon turns Red. When it reaches the low battery cut-off (3.3V), the battery percentage value will show 0% and the Argus G3 will power off.
Airflow
The Voopoo Argus G3 incorporates an adjustable airflow control slider on the right hand side edge of the casing.
When the airflow control slider is in the downward position the airflow is open with 3 small intake holes and provides an airy MTL/RDL draw. Moving the airflow control slider uppermost, the airflow will be closed off showing an even smaller single air intake hole and provides a tight restrictive MTL draw. You can position the lever anywhere between min and max to tweak your preferred vaping style.
Voopoo Argus G3 Performance
Two Argus V2 pods are supplied with the Argus G3 kit; a 0.4 ohm Kanthal mesh top fill pod (colored green) and a 0.7 ohm Kanthal mesh top fill pod that’s fitted when you purchase the kit (colored blue). They do have integrated coils so are non-replaceable.
Voopoo state on their website that these Argus V2 Pods are good for 100ml of e-liquid through them. We’ve not used these Argus V2 pods before as they are new to the Argus G3 kit so can’t say with any certainty just how long they last.
However, since receiving the Argus G3 kit several weeks ago, I’ve been using it non-stop and have cycled approx. 120ml through the 0.7 ohm pod and 90ml through the 0.4 ohm pod. At the time of publishing this review, both pods are still performing really well with no drop off in flavor.
As always, when filling the pod for the first time, do leave it to stand for 10-15 minutes before you use to allow the e-liquid to fully saturate the wicking material. I also prefer when using a new pod to set the wattage to its lowest setting and take a few draws to pull e-liquid through the coil. Gradually increment the wattage, each time taking a few draw until you reach your ideal sweet spot.
Throughout the time I’ve been using these pods there has been no signs of any leaks or condensation on the coil contact pins on the base of the pod or in the pod recess.
Argus V2 Pod – 0.7 Ohm (Green Base)
Voopoo specify the recommended wattage range for this pod is between 14W-18W. The auto sensing pod detection sets the optimum wattage to 16W. The operating wattage of the Argus G3 when using the 0.7 ohm pod is from 5W to 18W.
After initially bedding in the coil, I set the wattage to its minimum value of 5W. The draw was present but weak until I reached 8W when the flavor and vapor started to come through after a 2-3 second draw.
Taking the wattage to 10W improved things pretty well. A 2 second RDL draw with the airflow lever open brought out the flavor of my e-liquid quite well with a good amount of vapor. I found completely closing the airflow (small hole showing) restricted the draw, reduced the flavor and vapor and increased the warmth of the vape.
At 12W with the airflow still open the draw intensifies giving good results. Shutting the airflow off muted things a little too much for me. 14W was about the optimum for me producing very good flavor and vapor. Reducing the airflow tightened the draw but again shutting the airflow off was too tight and reduced the flavor and vapor.
Increasing the wattage to 16W resulted in a short draw with dense clouds of vapor. Airflow fully open worked best for me with a RDL draw, even with the airflow half way gave good results. Closing the airflow gave a tight draw, good flavor but the vapor was still only adequate.
Taking the wattage to its maximum 18W gave the same great results and only required a short sharp draw to achieve a good throat hit and satisfying vape.
My ideal setting for this pod was between 12W to 14W with the airflow fully open.
Argus V2 Pod – 0.4 Ohm – pre-installed (Blue Base)
Voopoo specify the recommended wattage range for this pod is between 18W-30W. The auto sensing pod detection sets the optimum wattage to 25W. The operating wattage of the Argus G3 when using the 0.4 ohm pod is from 5W to 30W.
With the wattage set to its minimum value of 5W there was very little happening in terms of flavor or vapor. Once I got to 8W the flavor and vapor came through surprisingly well but only after a long slow draw. Increasing the wattage to 10W improved the speed of the draw and I was getting plenty of flavor and vapor. Reducing or closing the airflow was too restrictive.
Taking the wattage to 12W was about right for me with this pod. The flavor was very good and produced dense vapor with the airflow fully open giving a nice RDL draw. The minimum 18W setting was an intense quick draw while the optimum set wattage of 25W was too intense for me. Closing the airflow off at this wattage gave a pretty good MTL draw with good flavor but not that much vapor.
Again as with the 0.7 ohm pod, shutting the airflow off tended to mute the flavor and vapor and increased the warmth of the draw. I found anywhere from half open to fully open gave me the best results.
My ideal settings for this pod was between 10W to 12W with the airflow fully open which gave a great RDL draw with very good flavor, vapor and throat hit.
Any Leaks?
Voopoo state that these pods will be leak free for up to 30 days.
Throughout my time using both the pods supplied with the Argus G3 kit there were no e-liquid leaks or seepage. However, especially as the pods get older, if you’re not using the device, or any other device for that matter, for a day or two and the pod is still connected to the device, e-liquid seepage will most likely occur.
This is not a criticism of the Argus V2 pods in any way, it’s just my experience when using any pod mod.
Airflow
The airflow slider adjustment worked effortlessly and has a good resistive feel to the slider. Because the lever only protrudes about 1mm from the side of the casing it can be a bit fiddly to adjust. Saying this though, once it’s adjusted in won’t move of its own accord.
Closing the airflow off (uppermost) produced a tight restrictive MTL vape while opening it up (downwards) provided a less restrictive (airy) RDL draw. There isn’t a great deal of movement on the slider (approx. 5mm) but enough to provide your ideal draw.
For me personally, irrespective of the resistance pod I was using, I preferred the airflow slider full open.
Auto Draw
Auto draw worked faultlessly throughout the time I was using and reviewing the Argus G3. The sensitivity of the draw worked perfectly, even the slightest of draws with the airflow open fired the Argus G3. Irrespective of the position of the airflow, the draw was smooth although not quiet as there is a little noise as you inhale.
Performance Summary
Both the 0.7 ohm and 0.4 ohm V2 pods are very impressive. Flavor and vapor, including the throat hit from them was really good. Of the two different resistance pods, I favored the 0.7 ohm slightly more but this doesn’t take anything away from the 0.4 ohm V2 pod which performed great, it’s just my personal preference.
The auto sensing optimum default wattage of 16W on the 0.7 ohm pod was powerful but not excessive whereas the 25W on the 0.4 ohm pod was a little too intensive.
While I love the original Argus pods and have used them for the last couple of years, these new Argus V2 pods are a worthy upgrade and do top the performance. I will switch to these when my stock of the others has run out.
Voopoo Argus G3 Battery Performance
The Voopoo Argus G3 is powered by an increased 1500mAh capacity rechargeable internal battery, upgraded from 1000mAh that was on the Argus G2. It takes approximately 37 minutes to fully charge via the on board Type-C USB port with the supplied cable when using a power source of 2A.
On average I was achieving just over a day’s vaping from each single charge while using the 0.7 ohm pod set at 10W. When using the 0.4 ohm pod this time reduced down to approximately 14 hours when set to 14W.
Vape times between charges will vary depending on the resistance of the pod you’re using, the wattage you’ve selected and your vaping style i.e. duration and frequency of your draw.
The Argus G3 indicates the status of the remaining battery charge on the 0.96 inch TFT display. It shows a battery icon (top left) with a percentage value to the right of the icon (top right). As the battery charge reduces, the solid colored block in the battery icon reduces and the percentage value counts down from 100% to 0%.
Once the remaining battery charge reaches <20%, the battery icon together with the reduced solid block turns red. Note: This is only really visible when the Argus G3 is in “Smart” mode.
Drawing on the mouthpiece or pressing the control button will illuminate the 0.96 inch TFT display and show the remaining battery charge status. When the battery reaches its low voltage cut-off point (3.3V), the battery percentage will show 0% and the Argus G3 will switch off. At this point you will no longer be able to vape and will have to charge the device.
As we found when reviewing the Argus G2 last year, the Argus G3 follows suit in that the TFT display doesn’t remain illuminated during the charging process.
We’ve covered the charging process and what to expect in How do I Charge the Argus G3 section of this review. Even though the Argus G3 charges pretty quickly, it does have pass-thru so you are able to vape while it’s being charged.
The intensity of the draw remains the same throughout the discharge cycle of the battery. It doesn’t diminish as the battery drains and remained the same up to the point when the battery cuts out.
How do I Fill the Argus V2 Pods?
These new Argus V2 pods, like the earlier pods we saw when reviewing the Argus G2 and other Argus kits, are a top fill design so don’t have to be removed from the Argus G3 in order to fill with e-liquid. It’s purely down to user preference whether you remove the pod or not.
The fill port is located on one side of the pod casing and is concealed behind a black silicon rubber flap. A small arrow, just below the pod resistance is indented on the rubber flap highlighting which end of the rubber stopper lifts away to gain access to the fill port.
This silicone rubber flap is attached to the pod by a small rubber pin so there’s no chance of it getting lost. It can be swiveled side-wards when you’re filling to give that little more free room. Because the fill port opening is pretty wide (4.5mm), it’ll accept those larger e-liquid/shortfill bottle tips. However, because of the increased coil size, I would recommend filling the pod slowly allowing the air to release.
Pull open the flap and insert your e-liquid bottle tip into the opening. Tilt the pod on its side to aid filling and to get the maximum amount of e-liquid into the pod. Once filled, re-insert the silicon rubber flap making sure the fill port is securely re-seated.
If you’ve removed the pod to fill, when it’s re-inserted, the Argus G3 TFT display screen will initially illuminate with the pod resistance and optimum min/max power levels then switch to the main display screen.
Quick Tip: If you are filling the pod for the first time, once filled, leave to stand for approx. 10-15 minutes before you start to vape. This will help saturate the wick fully in e-liquid and help prolong the life of the coil/pod.
When and How do I Change the Argus V2 Pods?
Because both of the included Argus V2 pods have fixed non replaceable coils, when the coil starts to degrade after a few weeks/months of use, the pod will need to be discarded and a new pod fitted. Voopoo state these new V2 pods have an increased minimum lifespan of 100ml of e-liquid passing through them. If the earlier Argus pods are anything to go by then these V2 pod should far exceed this lifespan.
An indication of the coil degrading will show by either a loss of flavor and/or a lack of vapor or worst case a burnt taste. Equally the coil could fail going open or short circuit. Either way, when this happens discard the pod and fit a new one.
Pull the pod away from the Argus G3 battery/body. Unfortunately if you still have e-liquid in the pod, this will have to be discarded as well as it will have been tainted by the burnt out coil.
When fitting a new pod, follow the procedure for How do I Fill the Argus V2 Pod. As you insert the pod into the Argus G3 body the TFT display will briefly illuminate to identify the pod has made electrical contact with the Argus G3 contact pins in the pod recess.
How do I Charge the Voopoo Argus G3?
The Argus G3 has an internal 1500mAh rechargeable battery therefore charging is carried out using the supplied USB to Type-C charging cable. Simply connect the cable into the Type-C port on the bottom of the Argus G3 body and the other end into a suitable USB power source. The specified charging circuit of the Argus G3 is 5V/2.0A and Voopoo state it will fully charge the Argus G3 in approximately 45 minutes.
When we charged the Argus G3, the recorded charge time took 37 minutes which was quicker than Voopoo specified. If you charge using a lower current power source (1A) the charging time will increase.
When you plug the Type-C cable into the charging port, the Argus G3 TFT main display will briefly illuminate. Within 2 seconds the display will switch to a single battery charging screen which has animated graphics with the battery percentage and time remaining figures displayed.
After approximately 5 seconds the display will dim to half brightness and then a few seconds later the display will extinguish. Sadly the display remains blank throughout the remaining charging cycle so you don’t know when charging has been completed. The only way to verify this is to press the control button and see if the display indicates 100% complete with 0% remaining.
This scenario is the same for most of the Voopoo pod kits, including the earlier Argus G2. If you’ve read any of my other reviews you know this is a pet hate of mine. If it functioned similar to the Argus P2 where the charging screen was visible throughout the charging cycle then I would be very happy! Fortunately like the Argus G2, the Argus G3 has a charge time remaining figure so you can see how long is left to charge.
When the charging cable is removed the main display will illuminate and the battery icon at the top of the display will show a full battery icon bar with 100%.
The Argus G3 has pass-through so you can vape while it’s being charged but this will increase the overall charge time.
I did observe while the Voopoo Argus G3 was on charge the case did get slightly warm to the touch. While this is normal, I strongly advise to always charge this, and any other device for that matter, on a non-flammable surface.
As with any vape device, NEVER leave it unattended whilst charging and don’t charge it overnight.
Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Price
Most of the major retailers are selling the new Voopoo Argus G3 pod kit in the UK for around the £25 price mark with some having it on offer for a few pounds cheaper. Considering the kit contents include the new Argus V2 0.4 ohm and 0.7 ohm pods plus the lanyard, it’s very good value for money.
I’ve used and own many of the Voopoo pod kits, quite a few of them on a daily rotation and they’ve not let me down so that’s always a positive when looking at what kit to buy.
Do shop around and see who is offering the best deal!
Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Review Verdict
Pros
- Good build quality
- Great design
- Robust
- Type-C USB charge port (45 mins)
- Good battery life and capacity (1500mAh)
- 2x Top fill Argus V2 pods
- Leak proof
- Variable airflow
- 5W-30W adjustable wattage + Auto sensing + Max wattage limitation
- 0.96 inch TFT multi-colored display with animated graphics
- 3 different screen layouts plus animated graphics
- Very good overall performance
- Really good vapor and flavor
- Tight – Airy MTL/RDL draw
- Pass-thru vaping
Cons
- Display doesn’t remain illuminated while charging
- Draw activation only (no fire button)
- No vape time reading
Voopoo Argus G3 Pod Kit Review Summary
The Voopoo Argus G3 pod kit is a very worthy upgrade over the original Argus G2 despite this time around lacking a fire button and a vape time reading. Where this kit comes into its own is the increased battery capacity to 1500mAh and the inclusion of the new Argus V2 pods which top the scales over the already great original Argus pods.
It still has the 0.96 inch TFT multi-colored screen with animated graphics, 3 different screen layouts, 5W-30W variable wattage control, variable airflow, fast charge with pass-thru, good battery life, puff counter and auto sensing wattage control with a maximum wattage limiter for each pod type.
Couple this with a lightweight, robust and stylish pen style pod kit with 9 different colors available to choose from then no doubt the Argus G3 will be as successful if not more so than its predecessors.
Hope you enjoyed this review on the Voopoo Argus G3 pod kit and found it useful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave us a comment below.
I’ve included a list of the different Voopoo Argus kits we’ve reviewed and had the pleasure of using. If you click on any of the hyperlinks it will take you directly to that review.
- Voopoo Argus G Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus G2 Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus G2 Mini Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus P1 Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus P1(S) Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus P2 Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus Pod SE Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus Z Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus 80W Pro Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus MT/XT with UForce-L Tank Review
- Voopoo Argus A Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus E40 Pod Kit Review
- Voopoo Argus Pod SE Kit Review
If you do purchase one, please do drop us a comment and let us know how you’re getting on with it.