Product intro and specs
In early 2023, we were introduced to the exciting launch of PRTBL (pronounced “portable”). This innovative company was founded by Nick Theobald, the creator and designer behind the acclaimed PCKT One Plus and the compact yet resilient PCKT 2 vape battery. With over 15 years of experience in the cannabis and e-cigarette industry, Nick utilized his expertise to develop two exceptional products: the PRTBL Nando weed oil vape and the FLO 510 refillable cart, both compatible with most prefilled weed carts.
The PRTBL Nando is a compact and powerful vape that fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. Designed to replace your 510 battery, this pocket-sized device offers four convenient power modes, customizable haptic feedback, and error-sensing technology. While the Nando lacks a screen and may not be immediately intuitive, mastering its commands is a breeze with a quick skim through the user manual.
As an advocate for minimalistic yet highly efficient devices, I have been thoroughly impressed with the performance of the Nando during my testing period. It is always refreshing to witness young companies like PRTBL pushing the boundaries of innovation and delivering standout products in a highly competitive market.
The Nando’s combination of power, affordability, and portability has made it a standout choice for me, and I’m excited to see what PRTBL has in store for the future. With their commitment to creating high-quality and user-friendly devices, this company is poised to make a significant impact in the vaping industry.
PRTBL Nando
Colors: Maui, Monterey, Slate, Sonoma, and Paradox
Price: $49.95
FLO 510
Colors: Silver, gunmetal
Price: $2.95
Specifications
- Name: PRTBL Nando
- Dimensions: 2.87 in x 1.38 in x 0.67 in (73 mm x 35 mm x 17 mm)
- Fits most top & bottom 510 cartridges
- Adaptor required for some carts (1 gram adaptor included)
- 4 power modes
- One-year warranty with accidental discount coverage
- USB-C charging port
- High capacity 700 mAh lithium-ion battery
- Use while charging with passthrough technology
- Ergonomic design
- Simple 510 magnetic connection
- 3 light sensitivity settings
- Customizable haptic feedback
- Name: FLO 15
- Dual ceramic coil
- Permeates entirely for even wicking & vaporization
- No leak
- heat resistant design
- CNC machined from solid steel
- Borosilicate glass housing
- Shatter resistant
Kit contents
- 1 x PRTBL Nando
- 1 x Magnetic adapter (1 gram)
- 1 x USB-C cable
- 1 x Warranty card
- 1 x Manual
Build quality and design
Upon first glance, it’s evident that PRTBL drew significant inspiration from the acclaimed PCKT designs, particularly the PCKT Two. The fire button on the Nando is larger, but the sleek craftsmanship and robust metal feel of the battery’s body remain consistent, complete with smooth edges.
The Nando strikes an impressive balance between weight and portability. Constructed from CNC-machined 6061 aluminum, it possesses a substantial feel that instills confidence in its durability. However, weighing in at just 65 grams, it remains lightweight enough to effortlessly slip into a pocket, almost unnoticed.
Measuring 2.87″ x 1.38″ x 0.67″ (73 mm x 35 mm x 17 mm), the Nando boasts an ergonomic design that comfortably nestles into the palm of your hand. As a person with small hands, I found it to be a perfect fit.
I had the pleasure of testing the PRTBL Nando in two appealing colors: Sonoma (red) and Slate (black). Both options feature a smooth textured finish achieved through meticulous hand sandblasting. This scratch-resistant coating ensures that you needn’t worry about surface tarnishing, even if the device spends time in your pocket or bag.
With four power modes to choose from—2.4 V, 2.8 V, 3.0 V, and 3.4 V—the Nando offers versatility to cater to a variety of oil preferences. While it may not suit those who prefer vaping at higher temperatures, this range proves favorable for most oils and minimizes the risk of burnt coils.
How to use the PRTBL Nando & FLO 510
Getting the hang of the Nando is a breeze due to its minimalist design. Simply attach your cartridge to the magnetic adapter and start enjoying your vape session. However, if you’re new to devices with limited interfaces, it may take a little more time to become accustomed to it.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
- Ensure that the Nando is fully charged before using it for the first time.
- Unscrew the mouthpiece of your FLO 510 cartridge and use a needle to fill it with your desired oil.
- Thanks to passthrough technology, you can use the device while it is charging.
- Screw your cartridge into the appropriate adaptor, depending on its size (short adaptor for one gram cartridges, tall adaptor for half gram cartridges). Please note that only the short adaptor is included in the kit.
- Slide the assembled cartridge and adaptor into the Nando, making sure the magnetic side is facing downward.
- Turn on the battery by clicking the button five times rapidly.
- To activate the heating, either hold down the button or draw from the mouthpiece.
- Adjust the power mode by pressing the button twice. Cycle through the available options by clicking the button and hold to select your desired power mode.
- Access the LED light settings by clicking the button three times.
- Customize the haptic feedback intensity by clicking the button four times. You can adjust or disable the feedback altogether.
- Check the battery life by pressing the button once.
Performance
The Nando offers two significant advantages that I personally value: its simplicity and customization options.
The straightforward interface of the Nando aligns perfectly with my preferences. The addition of haptic feedback and LED settings enhanced my overall experience, providing sensory cues that reassured me everything was functioning properly.
The Nando strikes a harmonious balance, offering enough customization to tailor my vaping session without overwhelming me with excessive choices. It’s ideal for quick and convenient puffs on the go.
Throughout my usage of the Nando, I primarily kept it on mid-range voltage settings. The airflow was smooth, and I didn’t experience any coughing, even at the highest voltage. It’s worth noting that the cutoff voltage of the Nando is 3.4V, which is lower than most other oil batteries I’ve tried in the past.
I particularly appreciate that the Nando comes with an adaptor that allows compatibility with carts larger than 12 millimeters in diameter. However, it’s important to note that this adaptor is not included with the battery and must be purchased separately for $8.95.
As for the FLO 510 cartridge, it follows a similar trend of unassuming yet powerful performance. I tested it with a distillate and consistently enjoyed rich and satisfying hits. The disassembly, filling, and reassembly process was straightforward, and the included one-gram adapter provided a perfect fit for the cartridge.
Battery life and charging
Upon receiving the Nando, I charged it initially, and I haven’t needed to recharge it since. While this is expected for an oil vape, it’s still a positive aspect. If you’re looking to maximize battery life, you can also lower the LED brightness.
Compared to the PCKT Two, the Nando offers an improved battery life despite its smaller size. It features a 700 mAh battery, surpassing many similarly sized devices available in the market.
Monitoring the battery life is a breeze. Simply press the button once and observe the color displayed:
- Green: 66-100% battery life
- Yellow: 33-66% battery life
- Red: 0-33% battery life
When it’s time to recharge, the process is quick, taking only 40 minutes. This is an improvement over the approximately 45 minutes required to charge the PCKT Two and PCKT VRTCL, which already have impressive charging times. Furthermore, you can enjoy vaping while the device is charging, thanks to its passthrough capabilities.
Pros / Cons
- Durable
- aluminum body
- Four voltage settings
- Dual-activated firing
- Compatible with most top/bottom 510 carts
- USB-C charging
- Compact
- pocket-sized design
- Ergonomic hand feel
- One-year limited warranty
- Short adapter included
- Moderately priced
- Affordable refillable cart option (FLO 510)
- Extender needed to vape wide carts
- Tall adapter is sold separately
- Not fully intuitive (single button interface)
- Would like the option to set the voltage a bit higher
Verdict
Overall, my experience with the PRTBL Nando has been highly positive, with just a few minor points to consider. One notable aspect is the affordable price, which is significantly lower than the PCKT Two’s price tag of $79.95. Despite the lower cost, the Nando doesn’t compromise on durability, effectiveness, and customization. Additionally, the FLO 510 refillable cart has quickly become one of my preferred options, delivering satisfying flavor and ease of use.
While the separate purchase of the tall adaptor may raise some concerns, I understand the reasoning behind it. This approach helps keep costs down for consumers, and smaller carts are becoming less prevalent in the market. Although the lack of inclusion of the tall adaptor can be seen as a drawback, my main critique is that it is only available as part of a set with another short adaptor and cannot be purchased individually. However, I acknowledge that selling it separately may not be cost-effective.
