
REVIEW
Arizer Argo Vaporizer Review
Summary: As a long-time vaporizer enthusiast and reviewer for herbvape.co.uk, I've had the pleasure of using the Arizer ArGo for over two years now. This tiny powerhouse has become a staple in my portable vaping arsenal, and I'm excited to share my honest, hands-on experience with this device.
Unlike some reviews you might find on major vaporizer retail sites, this assessment isn't influenced by any product affiliations or sales goals. My aim is to give you, the reader, a genuine, no-holds-barred look at what it's like to use the ArGo day in and day out. I'll cover everything from vapor quality to long-term maintenance, highlighting both its strengths and potential drawbacks, so you can make an informed decision based on real-world performance, not marketing hype.
The ArGo, Arizer's answer to the demand for a truly pocket-friendly vaporizer, promises to deliver the vapor quality the brand is known for in a much more compact package. But does it live up to these claims? How does it stack up against other popular portable vaporizers? And most importantly, how does it perform in real-world use, beyond just the specs on paper?
In this comprehensive review, I'll dive deep into every aspect of the ArGo, drawing from my personal experience and broader user feedback from forums like Reddit and FC. Whether you're a vaping novice or a seasoned enthusiast, my goal is to provide you with the most reliable, detailed, and user-focused review available online. Let's explore together what makes the ArGo tick, and whether it truly deserves a place in your vaping lineup.
Design & Build:
When I first got my hands on the ArGo, I was immediately impressed by how Arizer managed to pack so much into such a small package. Measuring just 93mm x 52mm x 24mm and weighing 126g, the ArGo is genuinely pocket-friendly - a significant departure from Arizer's typically larger portable offerings.
The device feels solid and well-built, with a satisfying weight that suggests quality without being burdensome. The body is primarily made of anodized aluminum, which gives it a premium feel and has stood up well to daily use and the occasional accidental drop.
One of the standout design features is the pop-top mechanism that protects the glass stem when not in use. This clever addition addresses a common concern with Arizer's other portables - the exposed glass mouthpiece. The pop-top slides up smoothly and locks into place, allowing you to safely pocket the device without worrying about damaging the stem.
The OLED display is crisp and easy to read, even in bright sunlight. The buttons have a nice tactile feel and have remained responsive after thousands of clicks. I appreciate that Arizer opted for physical buttons rather than a touch screen, as they're more reliable in various weather conditions and easier to use without looking at the device.
The removable 18650 battery is a huge plus in my book. It's easily accessible via a bottom panel, allowing for quick swaps when you're on the go. This feature significantly extends the ArGo's usability for long days out or travel.
The glass stems, a signature of Arizer vaporizers, are both a blessing and a potential weakness. They provide excellent vapor quality but are obviously more fragile than metal or plastic alternatives. I've found it wise to carry a spare, just in case.
Overall, the ArGo's design and build quality punch above its weight class. It manages to be both durable and refined, a difficult balance to strike in the world of portable vaporizers.
Battery Life & Charging:
The ArGo is powered by a removable 18650 battery, which is both a strength and a limitation of the device. On a full charge, I typically get about 90 minutes of continuous use, which translates to roughly 6-8 sessions depending on your temperature settings and session length.
For a casual user, this might last a couple of days, but heavy users will likely need to recharge or swap batteries daily. The ability to carry spare batteries is a huge plus, essentially allowing for unlimited usage when you're away from a power source.
Charging is done via micro-USB, which feels a bit dated in 2024 when most devices have moved to USB-C. A full charge takes about 3.5 hours, which is on the slower side. However, the ArGo does support pass-through charging, allowing you to use the device while it's plugged in. This feature has saved me more than once when I've forgotten to charge but wanted to use the device.
One thing I love about the ArGo is that it uses standard 18650 batteries. This means you can use batteries from other devices or pick up spares cheaply. It also means that when the battery eventually degrades, you can easily replace it, extending the life of the device.
The battery life indicator on the OLED screen is accurate and easy to read, giving you plenty of warning when it's time to recharge or swap batteries.
While the battery life isn't exceptional, the combination of removable batteries and pass-through charging makes power management on the ArGo very flexible. With a little planning (and maybe a spare battery or two), you can easily use the ArGo all day without issues.
Performance & Vapor:
This is where the ArGo truly shines. Despite its small size, it delivers vapor quality that rivals much larger desktop units. The hybrid heating system, combining conduction and convection, ensures efficient extraction and consistently excellent vapor production.
I've tested the ArGo with a variety of herbs and at different grind levels, and it performs admirably in all scenarios. The vapor is always smooth, flavorful, and surprisingly cool, thanks to the all-glass vapor path.
The heat-up time is reasonable, typically reaching vaping temperature in about 60-90 seconds. While not as quick as some ultra-portable vaporizers, the wait is more than justified by the quality of vapor produced. I often start my session at a lower temperature (around 180°C) to enjoy the flavors, then step up to 200°C to extract the remaining compounds.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the ability to take the glass stem out mid-session to stir the bowl or examine the color of the herb. This level of control allows for very efficient extraction.
The ArGo really excels in its efficiency. I've found that I use significantly less material to achieve the same effects compared to many other vaporizers. A typical session lasts about 10-15 minutes, and I can usually get two good sessions out of a single stem load.
Temperature control is precise, with a range from 50°C to 220°C (122°F to 428°F). This wide range allows for great customization of your vaping experience. I've found that the flavor is best between 180°C and 200°C, while higher temperatures produce denser vapor at the expense of some flavor.
One minor drawback is that the ArGo can get quite warm during extended sessions, especially at higher temperatures. It's never uncomfortably hot, but it's noticeable.
Overall, the vapor quality and performance of the ArGo are outstanding, especially considering its size. It consistently delivers flavorful, potent vapor that satisfies even this veteran vaporizer user.
Temperature Control:
The ArGo offers a wide temperature range of 50°C to 220°C (122°F to 428°F), covering all my needs from low-temp flavor chasing to high-temp cloud production. The ability to adjust in 1°C/1°F increments allows for precise control over your vaping experience.
The controls are straightforward and intuitive. The OLED screen displays the current and set temperatures, battery life, and a 10-minute session timer. The up and down arrows adjust the temperature, while the 'M' button cycles through different menu options.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the ability to customize the automatic shut-off timer. You can set it anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes, which is great for tailoring your sessions to your personal preferences.
The ArGo also remembers your last used temperature setting, which is convenient if you tend to stick to a particular temperature. However, it's equally easy to adjust if you like to temperature-step during your sessions.
While there's no smartphone app integration (which I personally prefer - one less thing to worry about), the on-device controls are more than adequate for full control over your vaping experience.
The heat-up time is displayed on the screen, which I find useful. It typically takes about 60-90 seconds to reach vaping temperature, depending on your setting and the ambient temperature.
One minor quirk I've noticed is that the actual temperature can fluctuate a degree or two during use, especially at higher settings. However, this doesn't noticeably affect the vaping experience.
Overall, the temperature control system on the ArGo is well-designed and user-friendly, offering enough flexibility for both beginners and experienced users to dial in their perfect vaping experience.
Ease of Use:
The ArGo exemplifies Arizer's commitment to user-friendly design. As someone who often introduces friends to vaping, I appreciate how intuitive this device is, despite its high-end performance.
Loading the ArGo is straightforward, thanks to the design of the glass stems. Simply pack your ground herb into the end of the stem, then insert it into the heating chamber. The glass stems double as both the oven and the mouthpiece, which not only simplifies the design but also contributes to the excellent vapor quality.
Operating the device is equally simple. Three buttons control all functions: power, temperature up, and temperature down. A long press of the power button turns the device on or off, while short presses of the up and down buttons adjust the temperature. The OLED screen provides clear feedback on all settings.
One feature I particularly love is the pop-top protection for the glass stem. When you're done vaping, you can leave the stem in place and simply push down the top of the device to cover it. This makes it much more pocket-friendly than Arizer's other portables.
Maintenance is relatively easy too. The glass stems can be soaked in isopropyl alcohol for a deep clean, or simply brushed out after each use for quick maintenance. The heating chamber itself rarely needs cleaning thanks to the stem design.
One aspect that might be a bit fiddly for some users is the small size of the stems. They can be a bit tricky to load if you have large hands or poor dexterity. However, Arizer sells a curved stem that's easier to load and use.
The removable battery is another user-friendly feature. It's easy to swap out when needed, and using standard 18650 batteries means you're not tied to proprietary power solutions.
Overall, the ArGo strikes an excellent balance between simplicity and functionality. It's accessible enough for newcomers to pick up quickly, while still offering the control and performance that experienced users demand.
Value for Money:
At around £160, the ArGo sits in the mid-to-high range of the portable vaporizer market. After using it extensively for over two years, I can confidently say it offers excellent value for money.
The build quality is exceptional, and based on my experience with other Arizer products, I expect this device to last for years. Arizer offers a 2-year warranty on the electronics and a lifetime warranty on the heating element, which provides additional peace of mind. The vapor quality and consistency are top-notch, rivaling or surpassing vaporizers in higher price brackets.
One aspect that adds to its value is efficiency. I've found that I use significantly less herb to achieve the same effects compared to many other vaporizers. Over time, this efficiency can offset the initial cost, especially for regular users.
The ArGo also holds its value well on the second-hand market, should you ever decide to upgrade or switch to a different vaporizer. This is a testament to its quality and reputation.
The use of standard 18650 batteries is another factor that adds to its long-term value. When the battery eventually degrades, you can easily and cheaply replace it, extending the life of the device indefinitely.
For those who prioritize portability and discretion without wanting to compromise on vapor quality, the ArGo offers excellent value. It's particularly well-suited for those who vape both at home and on-the-go, as it performs admirably in both settings.
However, if you're primarily a home user, you might find better value in a desktop vaporizer or larger portable like the Mighty+. Similarly, if you're on a tight budget, there are cheaper options available, though they often compromise on vapor quality or durability.
When you factor in the durability, performance, and potential long-term savings from efficiency, the ArGo presents a compelling value proposition for serious vaporizer enthusiasts who need a truly portable device.
Portability:
Portability is where the ArGo really shines. At just 93mm x 52mm x 24mm and weighing 126g, it's genuinely pocket-friendly. I've comfortably carried it in jeans pockets, though it's most at home in a jacket pocket or small bag.
The compact size doesn't just make it easy to carry; it also enhances discretion. While not as stealthy as some ultra-compact vaporizers, the ArGo is inconspicuous enough for most situations. Its design, reminiscent of a small power bank, doesn't immediately scream "vaporizer" to the uninitiated.
The pop-top protection for the glass stem is a game-changer for portability. It addresses the main weakness of Arizer's other portable vaporizers - the exposed glass stem. With the ArGo, you can confidently slip it into your pocket without worrying about damaging the stem.
The durability of the ArGo adds to its portability. The aluminum body has survived several accidental drops during my outdoor adventures without issue. This resilience means I don't worry too much about tossing it in a bag with other items.
The use of standard 18650 batteries is another plus for portability. On longer trips, I can bring a few spare batteries instead of worrying about finding a place to charge. This has been particularly useful on camping trips.
One minor drawback is the micro-USB charging. While it's not a deal-breaker, USB-C would have been more convenient as it's becoming the standard for most portable devices.
The glass stems, while excellent for vapor quality, do require a bit of care when traveling. I usually carry a spare stem in a protective tube, just in case.
Overall, the ArGo excels in portability. It's small enough to take anywhere, yet powerful enough that you won't feel like you're compromising on vapor quality. It's become my go-to vaporizer for any situation where discretion and portability are priorities.
Cleaning + Upkeep:
Keeping the ArGo in top shape is relatively straightforward, thanks to its simple design. The glass stems, which double as the oven and mouthpiece, are where most of the cleaning work happens.
For daily maintenance, I simply brush out the stem after each use with the included cleaning tool. This keeps things tidy and prevents build-up. For a deeper clean, which I typically do every 10-15 sessions, I soak the stems in isopropyl alcohol for about an hour, then rinse thoroughly with warm water. This brings them back to like-new condition.
One tip I've found useful: have a few spare stems on hand. This allows you to always have a clean stem ready to go, and you can do a batch clean of all your stems at once, which is more efficient.
The heating chamber itself rarely needs cleaning, as it doesn't come into direct contact with the herb. Occasionally, I'll give it a quick wipe with an alcohol-soaked cotton swab, but this isn't necessary very often.
The pop-top mechanism can sometimes get a bit sticky if vapor residue builds up. A quick wipe with an alcohol swab usually takes care of this.
One minor annoyance is that the small size of the stems can make them a bit fiddly to clean thoroughly. I've found using pipe cleaners can help get into all the nooks and crannies.
The exterior of the device is easy to keep clean with a soft, slightly damp cloth. The aluminum body doesn't show fingerprints or scratches easily, which is great for maintaining its appearance over time.
Overall, while the ArGo does require regular maintenance, I find the cleaning process easier and less time-consuming than many other vaporizers I've used. The simplicity of the design means there are fewer parts to worry about, and the all-glass vapor path means you're not dealing with any weird tastes from residue build-up in plastic or metal parts.
Conclusion
After extensive use, I can confidently say the Arizer ArGo is one of the best truly portable vaporizers on the market, especially for those who prioritize vapor quality and discretion. It excels in producing consistently excellent vapor, ease of use, and genuine portability, making it a top choice for both newcomers and experienced users who need a reliable on-the-go vaporizer.
The ArGo successfully addresses the main criticism of Arizer's previous portables - their large size - without compromising on the vapor quality the brand is known for. While it has a few minor drawbacks, like slower heat-up times and average battery life, these are easily outweighed by its strengths for most users.
The ArGo is ideal for:
Users who want top-tier vapor quality in a truly pocket-friendly package
Those who frequently vape both at home and on-the-go
Users who appreciate the purity of an all-glass vapor path
Anyone looking for a durable, long-lasting vaporizer
It might not be the best fit for:
Users needing ultra-fast heat-up times
Those who prefer smartphone app integration
People who are especially rough with their devices (due to the glass stems)
Users who prioritize maximum battery life over other features
Final Rating: 8.7/10
The ArGo isn't perfect, but it comes impressively close for a portable vaporizer. Its few shortcomings are overshadowed by its outstanding performance in key areas. If you're serious about vaporizing and want a truly portable device that doesn't compromise on vapor quality, the ArGo is an investment you're unlikely to regret. It successfully bridges the gap between high-performance desktop units and ultra-portable vaporizers, offering the best of both worlds for discerning users.




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Denis
Unfortunatley i cant give away my real identity as it could have implications for my job, however ive been a vaporizer enthusiast for the last 7 years, and for the last year ive been an independent reviwer for herbvape.co.uk. On that note, all views represented in this review are my own.
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