Methodology
How We Review
An editorial evaluation, not a laboratory. Here’s exactly what we look at, what our optional score means, and what we refuse to do.
What a review is
A Vaper’s Diary review is an editorial evaluation based on using a product in everyday conditions. We don’t run laboratory tests and we don’t claim to. Where we quote specifications, they come from the manufacturer and are labelled as such; where we haven’t verified something, we leave it out.
What we evaluate
| Area | What we’re asking |
|---|---|
| Design | Is it comfortable, sensible and pocket-friendly? |
| Build quality | Does it feel durable? Do seals, doors and ports hold up? |
| Usability | Filling, controls, indicators — can you use it without the manual? |
| Performance | Flavour and consistency across a session and across weeks. |
| Battery experience | Does it last a realistic day for its intended user? |
| Airflow | Does the draw suit the style it claims (MTL / RDL / DTL)? |
| Coil experience | Priming, lifespan, availability of replacements. |
| Portability | Size, weight, leaks in transit. |
| Maintenance | Cleaning, part swaps and long-term upkeep. |
| Overall experience | Would we keep reaching for it? |
The Vaper’s Diary score
Scores are optional. When an editor sets one, it appears as a number out of 10. It reflects the overall editorial judgement above — not an average of sub-scores, and not a comparison with every product ever made.
| Score | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 9–10 | Exceptional. We’d recommend it without caveats. |
| 7–8.5 | Very good, with trade-offs worth knowing. |
| 5–6.5 | Fine for some people; better options exist. |
| Below 5 | We wouldn’t recommend it. |
Review units and independence
Brands sometimes send products for review. Receiving a product does not guarantee coverage or a positive review, and brands don’t see reviews before publication. Read our full editorial policy.
What we won’t do
- Invent specifications, prices or test results
- Rank products as “best” without explaining our criteria
- Make health or safety claims about products
- Hide affiliate links or sponsorship