Vessel took the most boring object in vaping, the 510 battery, and made it something you don’t mind leaving on the desk. That’s the pitch, and it’s a fair one. Most cart batteries are forgettable plastic sticks. Vessel’s are machined metal, soft-touch finishes and a draw that doesn’t feel cheap.
People came to us for Vessel because they wanted a cartridge battery that looked the part and lasted. The batteries are the core of the range, and the cases are a close second.
The batteries
Every Vessel battery runs a standard 510 thread, so it works with the usual pre-filled and refillable carts rather than locking you into one ecosystem. They charge over USB-C or a magnetic dock depending on the model, and most give you a few heat settings so you can dial a cart in rather than scorching it.
- Compass is the everyday one. Slim, light, magnetic charging, and it disappears in a pocket.
- Helix steps up the materials and the finish, with a twist dial for variable voltage.
- Ridge is the flattest of the lot, built to sit nearly flush so it rides in a pocket without printing.
- The Air is the lightweight option for people who want the least bulk possible.
The catch with any cart battery, Vessel included, is that it’s only as good as the cartridge you put on it. A tired or cheap cart will taste off no matter how nice the battery is.
The cases
Vessel also makes carry cases, and they’re genuinely good. The Rover and Expedition style cases hold a battery and spare carts snugly so nothing rattles or leaks in a bag. If you carry your gear daily, a proper case is the difference between a clean cart and a pocket full of sticky.
Who it suits
Vessel is for people running 510 cartridges who want the hardware to feel considered. If you just want the cheapest battery that works, there are plainer options. If you want one that looks good and holds up, this is the brand.
Have a look at the concentrate battery packs guide for how 510 batteries work in general, the cartridges page for what goes on top, and cases for keeping it all tidy.