you dont have to get a clone by any means... I only suggested it to keep the cost down. If you do get a mechanical clone I recommed it has a floating 510 pin so all your tanks sit flush with the mod and adjustable tubes so you can use whatever batteries you prefer.
WARNING: ALL CLONES ARE NOT ALIKE! They vary greatly. Some are practically 1:1 reproductions of the original and work every bit as good. some are worthless or severely flawed. For Example I have a copper black stingray clone by infinite. I love it! I would recommend it to friends. But its not perfect. the paint is meh and Im probably going to strip it. and the 18350 tube doesnt thread correctly. I happen to prefer 18500s and 18650s so no biggy but its not perfect. Can't tell you which clone to get cause youll be ...... if you roll the dice and lose based on what I said. just make sure it has all the specs that are important to you, research the vender and manufacture by reading reviews by others the bought the same device and pull the trigger.
As for mech vs reg... I like em both
WARNING: ALL CLONES ARE NOT ALIKE! They vary greatly. Some are practically 1:1 reproductions of the original and work every bit as good. some are worthless or severely flawed. For Example I have a copper black stingray clone by infinite. I love it! I would recommend it to friends. But its not perfect. the paint is meh and Im probably going to strip it. and the 18350 tube doesnt thread correctly. I happen to prefer 18500s and 18650s so no biggy but its not perfect. Can't tell you which clone to get cause youll be ...... if you roll the dice and lose based on what I said. just make sure it has all the specs that are important to you, research the vender and manufacture by reading reviews by others the bought the same device and pull the trigger.
As for mech vs reg... I like em both