Cotay,
So you are saying you would like the SVD 2.0 better than the box mod, but you prefer the box mod when you are out. Why? Is it because of the size/shape?
Thanks.
I'm not necessarily saying I prefer the SVD 2.0 over a box mod. They both have advantages and disadvantages for specific situations.
The SVD 2.0 (like most tube mods) is just too big to stealth vape at work and is less pocketable...I find tube mods to be much more conspicuous in a pocket. Small box mods (VS DNA30 at the office/VS DNA40 or SX Mini in the car) are better for me "on the go" since they fit better in my pocket and offer charging capability in the car (which the SVD 2.0 and most tube mods can't do...I'd rather plug in than change a battery while driving). At home, the SVD 2.0's lack of charging capability isn't an issue and in fact I find that changing a battery is extremely easy compared to the rDNA40 (which requires Sharkskin removal in my case...the issue is negated if you don't use a Sharkskin, but be prepared for cosmetic damage quickly with the VS) or the SX Mini (the battery cap is more difficult to remove I've found). Sure you can always plug in a regulated box mod at home, but I don't like being tethered at home if I don't have to.
The SVD 2.0 really is built well and feels very nice in the hand...it works (and looks) great with a Subtank Mini. Don't get me wrong, the VS rDNA40 and SX Mini S are fantastic and I do rotate them in use at home as well, but Innokin/Evolv really hit it out of the park on build quality on the SVD 2.0. I like using the SVD 2.0 so much because it really feels like a quality piece...and each time I pick it up I can't believe that I was able to get them for under $40 each. Purely from a value perspective, the SVD 2.0 is a steal and I like being reminded of that fact I guess.
If the SVD 2.0's 20W limitation conforms to your style of vaping, I am hard pressed to recommend a better mod (at the under $40 discounted prices...not MSRP) of comparable quality, reliability and performance. I see others recommending the Provari, but the SVD 2.0 is nearly as excellent (and arguably superior with the Evolv chip) with comparable build quality and much better value. I'd also much rather have an SVD 2.0 than an iStick 20W/30W or Cloupor Mini level device (and I have both). If you can spend more, the VS DNA30 (at $69.99) or VS DNA40 (at $104.99 w/o warranty) are exceptional values as well.
It really all comes down to one's vaping style, budget and situational needs. I find that I have different needs throughout the day and thus I have multiple mods to address those needs. The SVD 2.0 is an exceptional "table/desk mod", but I wouldn't want to carry it as my primary driver "on the go". If I could only have one mod, I'd probably opt for a VS rDNA40. If I could only have two mods, I'd grab the SVD 2.0 and a VS DNA40...for under $150 you have a great deal of situational flexibility, quality and performance.
I guess the bottom line is that I probably wouldn't opt for the SVD 2.0 as my only device if I could spend more than $40. However, if your needs or preferences are toward a tube mod or your budget is limited to the $40 price point, I see nothing currently available that offers a more compelling package than the SVD 2.0 (including the Provari). It really is a hidden gem that was passed over (arguably unfairly) by the masses due to its size (which isn't really all that cumbersome in reality).
