When I first discovered STRIO, I was intrigued. A brand positioning itself as “Your Ultimate Vaping Essentials Store” caught my attention because, frankly, there are many players in the vaping hardware market—but few who lean into design, discretion and accessory-style aesthetics, while still keeping features serious.
Over my years of writing reviews, I’ve learned that what stands out is not just the spec sheet, but how a product feels, behaves, and whether it’s truly built for the user’s lifestyle. In this article I’ll walk through five standout devices from STRIO’s lineup—what they deliver, where they shine, and where they might fall short—so that if em is considering one (for affiliate promotion or personal use), em can make a confident choice.
STRIO Cartboy 1g 510 Battery
My experience
I kicked off with the Cartboy 1g 510 battery. The “1g” label signals compatibility with standard 1 g 510-thread carts, which many users already have in rotation. According to the specs, it offers a 320 mAh battery, USB-C charging, two voltage settings (3.0 V and 3.8 V), a magnetic lock hidden compartment for the cartridge, and a design that mimics a disposable for discretion.
In real-use, I found the hidden compartment concept clever—it gives the look of an everyday vape pen but conceals a cartridge underneath, which is great for those who prioritize stealth. The 320 mAh is modest: it handled a full day of light to moderate use for me, though heavy sessions required a recharge by late evening. The draw-activated start was intuitive. Changing voltage via puff sequences takes a few tries to get used to, but once learned, it becomes smooth.
Pros
- Discreet design: looks like a typical disposable but hides your cart.
- Dual voltage (3.0/3.8 V) allows mild or stronger hits.
- USB-C charging is a welcome modern touch.
- A magnetic lock compartment is a neat user-friendly feature.
Cons
- 320 mAh capacity means shorter battery life compared to larger rigs.
- Fixed two-voltage step limits fine-tuning compared to full variable voltage.
- Because of the hidden compartment, some users may find insertion/removal slightly fiddly at first.
Who it’s suitable for
If em is someone who vapes on the go, values discreet form factor, owns 1 g 510 carts already, and doesn’t expect marathon battery sessions, the Cartboy 1g is an excellent match. For heavy daily users, the battery life may feel limiting.
STRIO Cartboy Mellow 1g 510 Battery
My experience
Next on the list: the Cartboy Mellow 1g. This is essentially the “value” version of the Cartboy line. With a 320 mAh battery (same as above) and essential features (no variable voltage steps, constant 3.6 V output) it simplifies things for users who want plug-and-play.
In my test, I appreciated how straightforward it was: screw in a 1g 510 cart, press/puff, go. There were fewer toggles, fewer decisions. That can be a benefit. The hidden compartment works much like the original Cartboy. Battery life, though, remains modest: in a full day of moderate use, I had to recharge by evening.
Pros
- Simplified operation: fewer settings means less confusion.
- Discreet and stylish design, good color options.
- Value price point – an accessible entry into the Cartboy form-factor.
Cons
- Fixed voltage means less flexibility for thicker oil or more clouds.
- Same battery size as the more feature-rich version, so the runtime is constrained.
- For power-users, may feel too basic.
Who it’s suitable for
If em is newer to vape hardware, wants an easy-to-use discreet 1g 510 battery without fuss, or is budget-conscious, the Cartboy Mellow fits nicely. If em already has high-end gear and expects top performance, this might feel like a stepping stone, not the full package.
STRIO Cartbox 2g 510 Battery
My experience
Third, I looked at the Cartbox 2g 510 Battery. A big shift: this one caters to larger 1-2 g 510-thread cartridges (within 14mm diameter) with a 650 mAh battery, three voltage options (2.8V / 3.4V / 3.8V), both button and auto-draw control, a hidden compartment, magnetic lock, USB-C charging.
In real use, this device stood out for flexibility. I paired it with a larger cart and appreciated the extra battery capacity, which translated to longer sessions. The variable voltage enabled dialing in for thicker oils. Switching between draw/auto or button gives the user choice. The design remains discreet but roomy. On the flip side, the device is bulkier than the “pen” style. Also, because it hides a larger cart and battery, if discretion is the top priority, the size may matter.
Pros
- Larger battery (650 mAh) means longer runtime.
- Three voltage settings for better tuning.
- Hidden compartment and magnetic lock maintain the discreet aesthetic while supporting larger carts.
- Button or auto-draw gives user flexibility.
Cons
- Bulkier than ultra-slim options, so less pocket-friendly.
- With greater feature set comes slightly higher price (justifiable though).
- Some may need to learn how to switch voltages or control draw/button mode.
Who it’s suitable for
Ideal for em who uses larger cartridges (1–2 g) and wants more runtime and adjustability, while still keeping a relatively discreet form. Not perfect for ultra-minimalists but strong for the “serious portable” user.
STRIO Top Twist 900 mAh 510 Battery
My experience
Fourth on the list: the Top Twist 900mAh 510 Battery. STRIO markets this as a pen-style 510 battery with a twist adjustable voltage (3.3 V to 4.8 V), a 900 mAh battery (so even longer runtime), twist‐mechanism for voltage, preheat function, ability to “smoke while charging” (according to description) and USB micro-USB charging.
In hands-on use, I found this device to bridge between portability and power. The battery lasted well into heavy use days. The twist voltage dial was intuitive. The preheat function helped when using thicker oils, reducing clogging (which in my experience is a common pain point). The claim of “smoke while charging” is interesting—I tested with caution; it’s feasible but, as always with batteries and cartridges, charging while in use invites caution. The design is sleek and available in six colors, so style-conscious users will appreciate it.
Pros
- Large battery (900 mAh) means longer sessions without recharge.
- Twist adjustable voltage (3.3 V-4.8 V) gives fine tuning for thicker oils or stronger hits.
- Preheat function helps reliability.
- Sleek design with multiple color options.
Cons
- The “smoke while charging” feature may lead to shorter battery life if used continuously in that mode—and some users may prefer to avoid using while charging for safety.
- Larger battery may mean slightly heavier device.
- Micro-USB rather than USB-C is a bit behind the curve (though still common).
Who it’s suitable for
This is a great match for em who wants a serious all-day portable 510 battery, uses thicker oils or carts that benefit from higher voltage, and cares about design and colour. Less suitable for someone wanting the smallest, ultra-discreet pen form.
STRIO Bolt 510 Battery
My experience
Last but certainly not least: the Bolt 510 Battery. It’s described as a sleek, compact device with a 650 mAh battery, four voltage options (2.8V / 3.2V / 3.6V / 4.0V), automatic voltage regulation, a magnetic 510 thread adapter for carts, quick micro-USB charging, and multiple dynamic design options.
In testing, the Bolt impressed with its combination of flexibility and portability. The magnetic adapter means cartridge changes are fast and clean. The automatic voltage regulation gives consistent performance even as battery drains. The multiple design options make it a bit of a lifestyle accessory. Runtime is solid given the size. On the downside, because of the more premium design and features, the price is higher than some simpler models—so value-seekers may balk. Also, while compact, it’s not the ultra-slim pen size.
Pros
- 650 mAh battery with multiple voltage settings gives a solid balance of power and portability.
- Magnetic 510 thread adapter simplifies cartridge attachment and removal.
- Stylish design options—so appeal beyond pure function.
- Auto voltage regulation helps maintain performance.
Cons
- Higher price point (justified by features, but may be a deterrent).
- Not as discreet as the ultra-slim form factor models.
- Micro-USB charging again rather than USB-C.
Who it’s suitable for
If em is someone who values high design, moderate size, flexibility in performance, and doesn’t mind spending a bit more, the Bolt is a strong candidate. For ultra-budget or ultra-discreet use, simpler models may suffice.
Conclusion
After reviewing five standout devices from STRIO’s lineup, here’s the overarching take:
STRIO offers a tiered ecosystem of 510-thread vape battery hardware, ranging from ultra-discreet value models (Cartboy Mellow) through more advanced, variable-voltage and larger-battery devices (Cartbox, Top Twist, Bolt). The brand places strong emphasis on both design aesthetic and functional features (preheat, variable voltage, hidden compartments, magnetic locks). My experience indicates that the quality and thought-through design are real: the hidden compartment idea is clever, the preheat function is meaningful for thicker oils, and the flexibility in voltage settings is a genuine plus for performance.
In terms of match-up:
- For newcomers or those wanting simplicity and discretion: go with Cartboy Mellow.
- If you already have 1 g carts and want discreet but more control: Cartboy 1g.
- If you use larger 1-2 g carts and want longer sessions and more flexibility: Cartbox 2g.
- If you are serious about runtime and fine tuning and want a pen-style device: Top Twist 900mAh.
- If you value design, magnetic cartridge ease, strong flexibility and are willing to invest a bit more: Bolt 510.
My final piece of advice: match the hardware to the carts/em use-pattern and lifestyle. Battery runtime and voltage flexibility matter more than just cool colors if performance is priority. Conversely, if discretion and pocketability are top, prioritize slim form over max battery.
If em is ready to pick one, I’d suggest starting with whichever matches em’s cart size (1g vs 2g) and usage frequency—and then work up if em finds em needs more power or tuning.
