Puffco has been a driving force in the concentrate vaporizer scene for years, consistently pushing the boundaries with innovative devices like the New Peak Pro. This year, they’ve made waves with the Puffco Pivot, a Wax Pen that promises to provide high-end features in a portable form factor.
In this Puffco Pivot review, we’ll be looking closely at all its features, overall design choices, and vapor quality, amongst other factors. To help you make the most informed decision, we’ll also compare the Pivot to other leading wax pens, highlighting its strengths and where it stands against the competition. If this interests you and you are curious to figure out what the current Best Wax Pens are, check out our ranking page. We’ve compiled a list of the top-performing units for every type of user.
How It Works
The Pivot, made by Puffco is designed for simplicity, making it easy to use, even for those new to dabbing. It’s all about easy controls and clear feedback, so you can focus on enjoying your concentrates without any hassle. Fully charge the device before your first use.
Here’s how Puffco Pivot works:
Step 1: Open the mouthpiece, load a small dab into the chamber, and close it securely.
Step 2: Single-click the power button to cycle through the four temperature settings.
Step 3: Double-click to start heating, and you will notice that the device vibrates and flashes when ready (takes about 5 seconds).
Step 4: Inhale slowly and evenly for a smooth hit (double-click again during your dab for a boost).
Step 5: Hold down the power button to lock the device when not in use.
Pro Tips: Start with a lower temperature and gradually increase it until you find your sweet spot. For bigger clouds, cover the air intake hole on the mouthpiece while inhaling. Regularly clean the mouthpiece and chamber with isopropyl alcohol to maintain optimal performance and flavor.
Vapor Quality
The Puffco Pivot’s vapor quality is surprisingly good, especially when you consider its compact size. That 3D chamber really does make a difference, delivering smooth and consistent hits that rival some larger rigs. The way it heats from all sides ensures your concentrates are vaporized evenly, preserving those tasty terpenes for a flavorful experience. I love the way it prevents splashback. A huge plus in my book – nobody wants to waste precious concentrates.
Now, the vapor path itself is pretty straightforward. Air comes in through that little hole on the side of the mouthpiece, picks up the vapor, and goes straight back up. No fancy cooling mechanisms or extra-long pathways here. It gets the job done well, but there’s definitely room for improvement. For example, the silicone mouthpiece is not the best option because silicone is known to produce a weird taste. It’s also not recommended in the vapor path especially because the vapor will slowly seep into the silicone and be virtually impossible to clean out.
However, the Pivot Dab Pen still delivers satisfying hits, especially when you lower the temperature. And let’s be real: the convenience of this device is hard to beat. It’s perfect for those quick on-the-go sessions where you prioritize flavor and ease of use.
Manufacturing Quality
The Puffco Pivot is a sleek device, no doubt. It’s got that anodized aluminum body that feels pretty solid in your hand, and the high-grade silicone mouthpiece is a nice touch. The device’s main body is made from a lightweight alloy, complemented by a polished ceramic finish that is becoming standard across Puffco’s lineup. You can tell Puffco put some thought into the materials, especially with that heat-resistant silicone, which is a must-have with the 3D chamber pumping out serious heat.
But there’s a “but” here. While the individual components are decent, the overall construction feels a tad…loose. The quick-release 3D chamber, while handy for swapping out pre-filled chambers, introduces a bit of wobble that takes away from that premium feel. It makes you wonder how well it’ll hold up over time, especially with constant swapping. You can also get a separate pack of Puffco Pivot 3D chambers, which is sold separately to switch between chambers while on the go. These powerful chambers produce significantly more heat than bottom-heated chambers.
Speaking of chamber, the 3D chamber itself, while innovative, could benefit from a more robust design. Don’t get me wrong, it works well, but it lacks the same sense of solidity you get from, say, a ceramic chamber like the one in the Plus. That unibody construction on the new Puffco Plus just feels more durable and reliable in the long run.
And while we’re on the topic of the Plus, it’s worth noting that it comes with a wider range of accessories right out of the box. Things like a loading tool and extra chamber inserts add to the overall value and user experience. With the Pivot, you’ll find yourself needing to purchase those separately. Overall, the Puffco Pivot’s manufacturing quality is amongst the best for Wax Pens.
Temperature Flexibility
The Puffco Pivot might not have full precision temperature control like some high-end devices, but it offers a solid range of options to dial in your dabbing experience. With the following four distinct temperature settings, you can easily find the sweet spot for your concentrates and preferences:
- Blue (Low)- 500°F (260°C)
- Green (Med) – 520°F (271°C)
- Red (High) – 540°F (282°C)
- White (Peak) – 585°F (307°C)
The lowest setting, Blue, is perfect for those who prioritize flavor above all else. It gently heats your concentrates, preserving those delicate terpenes for a truly tasty experience.
The Green and Red settings offer a balanced mix of flavor and vapor production. For those who crave maximum vapor production, the White setting delivers intense, satisfying clouds.
But it doesn’t stop there. The Pivot also features a Boost Mode that kicks things up a notch by increasing your hit’s temperature and duration. This is perfect for those times when you want an extra powerful dab or you have a little bit of concentrate left and want to extract it all in one session.
While this level of control is more than enough, some Wax Pens, such as the Focus V Aeris, offer an extra temperature setting with app control, allowing users to fine-tune their session with even greater precision. It all depends on how experienced you are and what preferences you have.
Even without full precision control, the Puffco Pivot offers impressive temperature flexibility. With its four distinct settings and Boost Mode, you can easily customize your dabbing experience to achieve your desired results.
Battery Life
The Puffco Pivot’s battery life is decent, especially considering its compact size and 3D chamber, which requires more power. That USB-C charging is a definite win, getting you from 0 to 100% in a mere 45 minutes. For those who only dab occasionally, the 15 dabs per charge will likely be sufficient.
Pivot also includes convenient battery life indicators. By clicking three times, users can check the battery level:
- Green Light – Full
- Orange Light – Half
- Red Light Low
However, I can’t help but think about how much better it would be with a bit more juice. While pass-through charging is convenient, it does limit your mobility. Imagine those longer sessions with friends or a day out and about – having to stay tethered to an outlet can be a real buzzkill. It’s not quite as carefree as something like the Utillian 5, which boasts a much larger battery capacity of 1500 mAH for extended sessions without needing a recharge.
Imagine having a spare battery ready to go in your pocket – no downtime, just continuous dabbing enjoyment. That’s something the Pivot could definitely learn from. Then there are devices that incorporate clever battery-saving features. These are small touches that can make a big difference in the overall user experience.
Despite its limitations, the Pivot’s battery performance isn’t a dealbreaker. The fast charging and pass-through capabilities certainly help. Overall, the Pivot’s battery isn’t its main strong suit, but it gets the job done.
Portability
The Puffco Pivot is small enough to slip into some pockets but a backpack or purse will for sure be more than enough. That’s a huge win for those who like to dab on the go. However, true portability is about more than just size and weight. It’s about convenience and practicality. In that regard, the Pivot has some room for improvement.
For starters, a carrying case would be a welcome addition. Something compact and discreet to keep the device and its accessories organized and protected. Some devices, like the Utillian 2, have a carrying case with dedicated compartments for your tools and concentrates. However, you can use a dedicated carrying case with your Pivot like the Zeus Armor Case which also can help you to keep everything neatly separated and prevent any sticky messes.
Some devices go the extra mile with portability by offering lanyards or attachment points for keychains. This allows you to keep your device close at hand without having to dig through your pockets or bag. It’s a small detail that can make a big difference in convenience.
Ultimately, the Puffco Pivot is a portable dab pen, but it could be even better with a few thoughtful additions. A carrying case and perhaps a lanyard loop would make it even more convenient and practical for those who like to dab on the go.
Discreetness
The Puffco Pivot is relatively discreet, especially when compared to a full-sized dab rig like the Puffco Peak Pro 3DXL. Its small size allows it to be easily concealed in a pocket or bag. While the Pivot doesn’t produce as much odor as a traditional rig, there’s still a noticeable scent associated with vaporizing concentrates.
Some manufacturers even include smell-proof carrying cases with their devices. These cases not only protect your device but also contain any odors, allowing for truly discreet storage and transportation. That’s a feature I’d love to see with the Pivot.
Ease of Use
The Puffco Pivot is easy to use, even for those new to the world of concentrates. Everything about it screams simplicity and convenience. With its single-button interface, you can cycle through temperature presets and activate heating with just a few clicks. And the haptic feedback and that elegant light bar? They make it super easy to keep track of your settings and battery life without needing to consult a manual.
Loading the Pivot is a breeze as well. Just pop open the mouthpiece and drop your concentrate right into the chamber. While you can use an additional Puffco hot knife which is a nice touch for precise loading, it’s not entirely necessary. This is a nice contrast to some devices that require specialized tools or complex loading techniques.
Speaking of tools, the Pivot comes with everything you need to get started, including a loading tool, cotton swabs, and a USB-C charging cable. It’s a comprehensive kit that ensures a hassle-free experience right out of the box.
But what really sets the Pivot apart is its user-friendly design. It’s compact and lightweight, making it perfect for on-the-go use. The durable aluminum construction also feels reassuringly solid in your hand.
Now, while the Pivot is incredibly easy to use, some devices take user-friendliness to the next level. For example, the Tronian Gammatron features a fully removable chamber and mouthpiece assembly. This allows for even easier cleaning and maintenance, as you can completely disassemble the vapor path.
Overall Experience
The Puffco Pivot is a compelling entry into the world of portable wax vaporizers. It’s got a lot going for it: a sleek design, innovative 3D heating technology, and user-friendly operation that makes it accessible to both beginners and experienced dabbers. The vapor quality is surprisingly good for such a compact device, and the temperature flexibility allows you to fine-tune your sessions to your liking.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The battery life, while decent, could be better, especially for those who dab frequently. For those who seek more longer battery life with impressive vapor quality, you can check out options like the Utillian 5 V4 which comes with a 1500 mAh battery for longer sessions.
The build quality, though generally good, feels a bit less robust than some of Puffco’s other offerings. And while the portability is undeniable, the lack of a carrying case and certain features like a lanyard loop leave some room for improvement.
Despite these minor shortcomings, the Puffco Pivot offers a solid dabbing experience overall. It’s a convenient and stylish device that delivers satisfying hits and flavorful vapor. If you’re looking for a portable dab pen that’s easy to use and performs well, the Pivot is definitely worth considering.
For those interested in seeing how the Puffco Pivot stacks up against the competition, I highly recommend visiting our Best Wax Pens ranking page. There, you’ll find comprehensive comparisons and rankings of the top wax pens on the market, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences. Thank you for reading our Puffco Pivot Review, and as always: Keep Vapin’!
