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RELX Essential 2 Device 2026 Review: Best Budget Vape Australia
What is the RELX Essential 2? A 2026 Powerhouse
The RELX Essential 2 is the high‑performance 2026 evolution of RELX’s most reliable entry‑level series. This device features an upgraded 10W fixed output (up from 6.5W), an enhanced 380mAh battery, and 30‑minute fast charging (to 80%). Specifically re‑engineered to unlock the deep flavour profiles of the Pod Pro 2, it delivers flagship‑level vapour density in a streamlined, buttonless chassis [7].
The device weighs just 18 grams, making it one of the lightest pod systems on the market. It uses an automatic draw‑activated mechanism — no buttons, no settings, no screens. Just inhale and enjoy. The 11‑layer leak‑resistant maze design prevents condensation even during air travel, while Super Smooth™ 2.0 technology ensures near‑silent operation (<10 decibels) and a warm, comfortable vapour temperature [7].
Who is the Essential 2 for?
If you’re a smoker looking for an intuitive, affordable, and reliable transition to vaping — without the complexity of adjustable wattage or screens — the Essential 2 is your device. It’s also the perfect backup device for experienced vapers who want a no‑fuss, grab‑and‑go option.
Warmer, more saturated vapour than previous generations. Perfect for tobacco and dessert flavours.
All‑day power for moderate vapers. 80% charge in just 30 minutes via USB‑C [7].
Near‑silent inhale thanks to negative pressure airway design. Discreet vaping anywhere.
Structural leak‑trap manages condensation — even during flights or temperature changes.
Essential 2 vs Infinity 2: Which One Should You Choose?
RELX offers two main device lines in Australia: the budget‑friendly Essential 2 and the premium Infinity 2 (6th Generation). Both use the same closed pod system, but their hardware philosophies differ significantly. Here’s how they compare.
| Feature | RELX Essential 2 | RELX Infinity 2 (6th Gen) |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Capacity | 380mAh [7] | 440mAh [2] |
| Power Modes | Single 10W fixed output | 3 adjustable modes (Eco 6.5W / Smooth 8W / Boost 10W) |
| Charging (0–80%) | 30 minutes [7] | 15 minutes [2] |
| Activation | Draw‑activated only | Draw‑activated + button for mode switching |
| Weight | 18g [7] | Approx. 40g |
| Haptic Feedback | No | Yes (low battery / pod errors / overheating) |
| Best For | Beginners, budget vapers, “set & forget” users | Performance users who want customisable flavour intensity |
Australian Legal Access: No Prescription for Standard Nicotine Strengths
Since 1 October 2024, adults aged 18 years and older can purchase therapeutic vaping products from participating pharmacies without a prescription — as long as the nicotine concentration is 20 mg/mL or less and state or territory laws allow. A pharmacist will assess suitability, check ID, and provide a one‑month supply [4]. Higher strengths (30 mg, 40 mg, 50 mg) and any product for under‑18s still require a valid prescription [4].
Importantly, it is illegal for tobacconists, vape shops and convenience stores to sell any type of vape or vape product. All legal sales must occur through pharmacies [4]. The Essential 2, as a rechargeable closed pod system, is fully compliant with Australian therapeutic vaping regulations when supplied through authorised pharmacy channels.
Flavour Compatibility: Pod Pro 2 Delivers Up to 31 Flavours
The Essential 2 is specifically re‑engineered to unlock the high‑fidelity flavour profiles of the RELX Pod Pro 2 cartridges. This means richer, more complex vapour than older pods. The Pod Pro range alone offers 31 unique flavours, from classic tobacco and crisp menthol to fruit blends, teas, and desserts [10]. Each pre‑filled pod contains 1.9 mL of e‑liquid and delivers approximately 600–650 puffs [0]. Nicotine strengths range from 3 mg up to 50 mg, allowing you to step down gradually over time as part of a cessation plan [1].
Rich Tobacco, Virginia Tobacco, Cuban Tobacco — earthy notes that mimic a premium cigarette.
Polar Mint, Spearmint, Menthol X — clean, crisp, and refreshing.
Watermelon Ice, Blueberry Ice, Mango, Lychee Ice — sweet and balanced.
Longjing, Oolong, Jasmine — delicate floral aromatics.
Cost vs Disposables: Why the Essential 2 Saves You Money
The upfront cost of the Essential 2 ($19.99) is higher than a single disposable vape. But the long‑term savings are substantial. A moderate vaper may go through 8–12 disposables a month — costing $200–480 monthly. With the Essential 2, you pay once for the device and then only for replacement pods. A single pod costs around $12 and lasts 600–650 puffs (several days of moderate use). Over 12 months, an Essential 2 user can save hundreds of dollars while also generating far less electronic waste.
The device is designed to last over 500 charge cycles. At end‑of‑life, it should be disposed of as consumer electronics via local e‑waste channels or B‑cycle drop‑offs. Australia now has world‑first Battery‑In‑Device Shredding (BIDS) plants in Melbourne that can safely recycle vapes and other embedded battery products [6].
Environmental Impact: The Reusable Advantage
Each rechargeable RELX device replaces dozens of single‑use disposables over its lifetime. This significantly reduces plastic waste, lithium battery consumption, and overall carbon footprint. The Queensland Government has also introduced a $2 million grant program to expand battery collection points specifically targeting lithium batteries found in vapes and e‑scooters [6].
Product Recommendations: Shop Authentic RELX at G'DayVape
All RELX products featured below are 100% authentic and sourced through authorised Australian supply chains. Prices are current as of May 2026 and subject to change.
RELX Essential 2 Device – The Budget Champion
RELX Pod Pro 2 – Replacement Cartridges
※ Prices are for reference only and may be subject to change. Please check the website for the latest offers. 🔞 Age verification required. Adults 18+ may purchase ≤20mg/mL nicotine from pharmacies without prescription; higher strengths require a valid prescription [4].
🇦🇺 G'DayVape: We support adult Australian vapers with accurate, compliance‑focused information. All products are 100% authentic, sourced through authorised channels, and intended for smoking cessation or nicotine dependence management under Australian law.
References & trusted sources
- Wickz Vape Canada – RELX Essential 2 Device specifications. wickzvape.ca [10W fixed output, 380mAh battery, 30‑min fast charge, 18g weight, Super Smooth™ 2.0]
- Wickz Vape Canada – RELX Infinity 2 Plus Device specifications. wickzvape.ca [440mAh battery, 15‑min fast charge, three power modes]
- Australian Government Department of Health – Vaping laws (October 2024). health.gov.au [Pharmacy‑only access, ≤20mg/mL no prescription required, under‑18s prescription required]
- tawwos.com – RELX Vape Devices & Pods: Premium Technology. tawwos.com [31 Pod Pro 2 flavours, Super Smooth™ index, 11‑layer leak resistance]
- Relx Cebu – Pod Pro specifications. relxcebu.com [1.9mL per pod, 600‑650 puffs, leak‑resistant]
- myduke.com.au – Nicotine strength options. myduke.com.au [3mg to 50mg nicotine strengths, step‑down cessation approach]
- Waste Management Review – EcoCycle BIDS plant (2025). wastemanagementreview.com.au [World‑first Battery‑In‑Device Shredding facility in Melbourne, recycling vapes without manual dismantling]
© 2026 G'DayVape — Australian vape knowledge, grounded in clarity. Always adult-only.
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