Why do people choose a mech over regulated?
I've used both mechs and regulated mods. Liked both, but I haven't touched my mechs in a couple of years. I use a DNA-board regulated mod exclusively now. I like having the ability to change my vape on the fly (can't do that with a mech). I like the added safety security a regulated mod gives me over a mech. (I had a battery explode in a mech years ago.)
The only reason I keep my mechs around is for sentimental value, and should my 10 or so regulated mods no longer work post the vape apocalypse.
The Pro's & Cons of Regulated vs Mechanical Mods:
Regulated Pro's:
The battery power to the atomizer is controlled (or regulated) to stay the same throughout the battery charge, from a fully charged battery until fully discharged.
The power can be adjusted to increase or decrease the voltage by the user, allowing the user to change their vaping experience, on the fly.
Has built-in protective circuitry against atomizer short circuits, shorts in the 510 connector, or fire button; accidentally putting the battery in backwards; over discharging
the battery; accidentally pressing the fire button too long (auto cutoff timer); and over-heating of the processor.
Has built-in battery voltage and atomizer resistance meters to check battery voltage status and the ohm rating of the coil.
Regulated Cons:
Generally speaking, may not be as well made or as durable over time compared to a mech. Electrical components may fail over time or from physical abuse.
Unless it is a "high wattage" regulated mod, will not be able to fire a sub-ohm resistance coil.
Mechanical Pro's:
Generally speaking, are made to be more durable and able to withstand some physical abuse. No electronic components to fail.
Mechs are able to fire sub-ohm coils because there is no protection circuitry or processor amp limits to prohibit it.
Many mechs are machined to be quite beautiful, nearly art pieces. Many are manufactured in a limited run, in limited quantities, and inscribed with the serial number on the mod, which provides added value to collectors.
Mechanical Cons:
No protection circuitry. This is the big one for beginners. The new user must always be aware of the signs of a short circuit, which could cause the battery to vent hot gas or go into thermal runaway with flames or exploding. The metal tube mechs must have ventilation holes in case you experience a venting episode, which should prevent your mod from becoming an exploding pipe bomb.
No voltage regulation of the battery. As the battery drains from use, the vape quality will diminish.