September 1, 2025
No Comments
Today we’re putting two of the best budget‑friendly convection vaporizers head‑to‑head: the POTV Lobo vs XMAX V3 Pro.
Both punch well above their price tags, both have loyal followings, and both are often recommended as “first real vape” options. But they go about it in very different ways. Let’s break it down so you can decide which one’s right for you.
Scored by category (Higher is better)
The POTV Lobo feels like a premium device in the budget category with a solid metal chassis, clean machining, and a glass mouthpiece that locks in with confidence. The OLED display is bright, the buttons are clicky, and the whole thing feels like it could survive years of daily use. It’s a little wider than the V3 Pro, but still compact enough for a jacket pocket or even a jean pocket.
The XMAX V3 Pro also surprises here with a full aluminum body, magnetic mouthpiece with integrated stir tool, and a removable battery. It’s tall and slim, with a minimalist look that feels more expensive than it is. The magnets on both the mouthpiece and battery door are a nice touch, though the matte finish can pick up fingerprints.
The Lobo heats up in around 20 seconds and holds temp well. You get full precision control on‑device, with a wide range to dial in your preferred session style. It’s responsive and stable once it hits temp.
The V3 Pro is even quicker with about 15 seconds to target temp. It benefits from a brief 1–2 second “heat soak” before your first pull. It also offers precise temp control via dedicated buttons, with only minor overshoot/undershoot before settling.
The Lobo delivers smooth, flavorful vapor thanks to its glass mouthpiece and convection heating. First hits are terp‑rich, and it maintains good flavor for most of the session before tapering off.
The V3 Pro shocked me with how good it tasted for an $80–$109 vape. First hits are clean and flavorful, comparable to more expensive portables like the AirVape Legacy Pro. That said, flavor drops off a bit faster than the Lobo as the session progresses.
These are both very portable devices. The Lobo is definitely more pocketable than the V3 pro, in that it is smaller and will fit in a pocket easier.
That said, the V3 pro is no slouch in the portability category. It easily fits in a jacket pocket or the back pocket of your jeans. It’s much taller than the lobo but it’s way skinnier so standing this upright in a pocket will help it get out of the way of other things. If it falls over in your pocket, that’s when the device becomes a bit “unwieldy”
The Lobo offers solid battery life — around 10–12 sessions per charge — and USB‑C charging. It’s fixed‑cell, so you’ll need to plug in when it’s dead.
The V3 Pro averages about 10 sessions per charge as well, but has a removable 18650 battery. That means you can swap in a fresh one and keep going, which is a huge plus for heavy users or travelers.
If you’re looking for better vapor quality, smoother draws, and a more refined experience, the POTV Lobo is the clear winner. It’s more expensive, but the performance jump is noticeable, especially if you care about flavor and airflow. On the other hand, the XMAX V3 Pro is still one of the best budget convection vapes out there, and it punches way above its price. If you’re just getting started or want a solid backup device, the V3 Pro delivers serious value.
Both the POTV Lobo and the XMAX V3 Pro offer full convection heating, fast heat‑up, and solid performance, but they serve different audiences. The Lobo is smoother, quieter, and more refined, while the V3 Pro is scrappier, louder, and more budget‑friendly. If you want the best experience under $150, go V3 Pro. If you’re ready to spend a bit more for better airflow and flavor, the Lobo is worth it.
It depends on what you value. The Lobo offers better flavor retention, easier cleaning, and a more premium feel. The V3 Pro is cheaper and has really solid performance. Ultimately, it's up to you and your budget. They both get my recommendation, but if you can afford it, I suggest the LOBO.
The POTV Lobo holds flavor longer into the session thanks to its glass mouthpiece and convection heating. The V3 Pro tastes great up front but fades faster.
The XMAX V3 Pro heats up in about 15 seconds, slightly faster than the Lobo’s 20‑second average. Both are quick, but the V3 Pro wins here.
Both allow for battery swap or replacement which is a welcome addition!
They are both nearly identical in cleaning ease.
It depends on how you are carrying these. For pockets, I'd recommend the lobo as it's smaller and wider. But the v3 pro is no slouch and could easily fit in a back pocket or a deep front pocket. But for me, the edge goes to the lobo...but only by a slim margin.
The POTV Lobo retails around $159, while the XMAX V3 Pro is usually $109 and often drops to $80 on sale. The V3 Pro offers more value for budget buyers.
