The Firefly 2 and Firefly 2+ are premium portable dry herb vaporizers that have earned a reputation for exceptional flavor and on-demand performance. Developed by Firefly Vapor (founded in 2012 by tech veterans aiming to build a vaporizer better than the popular Pax (Au Revoir Firefly | The Firefly 2+ Vaporizer Discontinued)), the original Firefly pioneered on-demand convection heating for cannabis. The Firefly 2 was released in 2016 as a slimmer, lighter successor to the original, and the Firefly 2+ followed in 2019 with further refinements (Au Revoir Firefly | The Firefly 2+ Vaporizer Discontinued). Having personally used both the Firefly 2 and the updated 2+ extensively, I'll share my first-hand impressions - from unboxing and first sessions to long-term use and maintenance - to help you decide if one of these devices is right for you. I'll also compare them with a leading competitor, the Pax 3, to put their performance in perspective.
What exactly makes the Firefly 2 series stand out? In short: on-demand convection heating that delivers nearly instant vapor and top-tier flavor. Unlike session-style vaporizers that continuously heat your herb, the Firefly heats only when you inhale, preserving your material and flavor. In the sections below, we'll dive into the design, build quality, heating technology, user experience, vapor quality, battery life, and upkeep of the Firefly 2 and 2+. All observations come from my personal testing, complemented by insights from other enthusiasts and credible sources. Let's get started with how these devices look and feel out of the box.
Design & Build Quality
From the moment I unboxed the Firefly 2, it was clear this is a well-crafted device. The vape has a sleek, modern design with clean lines and a distinctive magnetic top lid that houses a glass viewing window. Through this window you can actually see your herb chamber - a unique touch that not only looks cool but also lets you monitor your bowl during use. The body of the Firefly 2 is made from a high-quality magnesium alloy, which keeps it lightweight yet sturdy. In fact, Firefly 2 is about 33% smaller and 55% lighter than its predecessor, thanks to the switch from stainless steel to magnesium alloy (Firefly 2 Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard). It feels solid in the hand with no flimsy parts, and the magnetic lid snaps on securely with precision fitting.
Both the Firefly 2 and 2+ share an almost identical form factor. They're roughly palm-sized (about 5 inches long and 1.5 inches wide), easily slipping into a pocket or purse. The build quality gives a premium impression - nothing rattles, and the materials feel durable. The borosilicate glass bowl and vapor path are inset beneath the lid, which means the only surfaces your vapor touches are glass and a bit of stainless steel screen. This design choice is great for purity of flavor and also makes cleaning simpler (more on that later).
In terms of aesthetics, the Firefly devices come in a variety of finishes (I've seen colors like black, blue, gold, and even woodgrain patterns). My unit had a sleek black matte finish that resisted fingerprints well. The 2+ model introduced a subtle cosmetic tweak: the Firefly logo on the lid is more pronounced and backlit when heating, giving a gentle glow. Aside from that, the Firefly 2+ looks the same as the 2 - which is to say, stylish and understated. It doesn't scream "gadget" or "vape" at first glance. In fact, both the Firefly and Pax 3 have been praised for their elegant, discreet designs (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy). The Firefly's slightly elongated shape with a window up top might draw a bit more curiosity than the ultra-minimalist Pax, but it's still discreet enough for on-the-go use.
First impressions: In my first week with the Firefly 2, I was impressed by the weight distribution and feel. It's hefty enough to feel substantial (no toy-like plastic vibe here) but still light enough for portability. The magnetic lid mechanism is delightful - snap! - and you have full access to the bowl and internal glass surface for loading or cleaning in seconds. The only quirk in the design is the lack of any physical buttons or display on the exterior - which brings us to the unique user interface and heating system of the Firefly.
Heating Technology & Performance
One of the standout features of the Firefly 2 (and 2+) is its dynamic convection heating. Unlike conduction vaporizers that heat the herb continuously via direct contact (like an oven), the Firefly uses on-demand convection - heating air that is pulled through the herb only when you take a draw. This means your herb isn't being cooked between hits, which preserves flavor and prevents waste. It also enables the Firefly's signature instant heat-up. From a cold start, it can reach vaping temperature in as little as 3-5 seconds (Firefly 2 Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard). The first time I tried it, I was astonished - by the time I finished saying "Is it heating?", it was ready to go. In practice, it feels nearly instantaneous: you press the sensors (more on that below), see the bowl glow and within a couple of seconds you're inhaling flavorful vapor. This on-demand heating is perfect for quick sessions or "sip vaping" throughout the day.
How it works: The Firefly's heating element only kicks on when you activate it via dual touch sensors on the sides of the device. Both Firefly 2 and 2+ have touch-sensitive pads (where your fingers naturally rest) instead of traditional buttons. To take a hit, you simultaneously touch both pads and start drawing from the mouthpiece. The heater engages and hot air flows through the holes in the bowl, extracting vapor from your herb. As soon as you release the touch sensors (or shortly after a draw is complete), the heater cools down. This system creates a true on-demand experience - you can take a single draw, set the device down, and come back later to finish the bowl without worrying that your material is being slowly toasted in the interim.
Both models offer multiple temperature settings to customize your vapor. Out of the box, the Firefly 2 had six preset temperatures (five for various herb profiles ranging roughly from ~340 °F up to 420 °F, plus one higher setting around 500 °F for concentrates). The Firefly 2+ similarly supports a range of temperatures spanning about 200 °F to 420 °F for herbs (and can go higher for concentrates with the app). By default, you cycle through a few preset levels using the touch sensors (there's an LED that changes color or blinks to indicate the temp setting). However, for full control, Firefly provides a smartphone app (for both Android and iOS) that connects via Bluetooth. Through the app, you can precisely adjust the temperature in small increments, customize profiles, and even update the device's firmware. I found the app pretty straightforward - it allowed me to tune the temperature to an exact degree for specific herbs, and Firefly even pushed firmware updates that improved performance over time (e.g. better battery efficiency) (The Firefly 2 Vaporizer_ A Pioneering On-Demand Co.pdf).
In terms of raw performance, the Firefly 2 and 2+ both deliver quick, consistent heating once you master the technique. The Firefly 2+ did bring some performance tweaks: it further reduced the already-brief heat-up time and improved the airflow. The company advertised about 33% more airflow on the 2+, and indeed the draw resistance is noticeably lower than on the Firefly 2. In my experience, the original Firefly 2 required a slow, steady draw to get satisfying vapor - a bit like sipping hot tea - whereas the 2+ is more forgiving and lets you inhale a bit easier without feeling like you're pulling against a clog. This made the 2+ more accessible for beginners and generally easier to get thick vapor from. Additionally, the 2+ came with a firmware update out of the box that optimized heating profiles, so it tended to maintain temperature a bit better during consecutive draws. Overall, both models excel in delivering fast, on-demand puffs, but the Firefly 2+ is a clear refinement focused on efficiency and ease of draw.
User Experience
Using the Firefly 2 daily was a slightly different experience than other vaporizers I've owned. The user interface has essentially no buttons - everything is done via the touch sensors and optional app. Initially, I had to get used to holding the unit with my fingers on both side sensors every time I wanted a hit. It felt a bit unusual compared to just clicking a button like on most devices. However, this quickly became second nature, and I grew to appreciate the elegance of it. There's something satisfying about the simplicity: grip it, it heats; let go, it stops. The lack of a physical button also contributes to the clean look of the device.
There is a learning curve to mastering the Firefly, especially the Firefly 2. In my first few sessions, I had to experiment with my draw speed and technique. A too-fast inhale would result in thin vapor, whereas a long, gentle pull created dense, flavorful vapor. After a handful of bowls, I dialed in the technique: start with a brief primer puff (to initiate heating), then take a slow 10-second draw. Once I got this down, the Firefly consistently produced great results. The Firefly 2+ shortens this learning curve - its improved airflow and firmware made it easier to get satisfying draws without as much finesse. If the Firefly 2 was a device "for enthusiasts" willing to perfect their method, the 2+ feels more like an everyman's on-demand vape - you can just pick it up and get a good hit more easily (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard).
Favorite session: One aspect of the Firefly's on-demand nature that I love is how it enables flexible session styles. I often prefer micro-dosing - just having a puff or two and saving the rest for later. With the Firefly, this was seamless. For example, one of my favorite sessions was on a weekend hike: I loaded a pinch of herb (about half the bowl, ~0.1 g) into the Firefly 2, took two tasty hits while enjoying the scenery, then clicked the magnetic lid shut and slipped it back in my pocket. The herb remained fresh since it wasn't continuously heated, so later that day I could finish the bowl with two more draws that were just as flavorful. This stop-and-go usage is a huge advantage of the Firefly's design - something traditional session vaporizers can't match (once you heat a Pax or similar conduction vape, you generally need to finish the whole bowl or it will keep cooking). The ability to take single hits on-demand made the Firefly 2 a perfect companion for casual use throughout the day.
Beyond that, the overall user experience is very positive. The device feedback is simple: a small LED light near the mouthpiece indicates status (changing colors for temperature selection, glowing while heating, etc.), and the Firefly 2+ added a gently illuminated logo under the window while you draw. There's no fancy display, but I never really missed it - the app covers detailed info when needed (like exact battery percentage or temperature setting). The Firefly 2 also has haptic feedback (a slight vibration) when it's ready at the set temperature, which is helpful if you're drawing without looking at the light.
In terms of portability and discretion, I would rate the Firefly 2/2+ as highly portable and moderately discreet. It's certainly small enough to carry anywhere and use in one hand. When you take a draw, the bowl's visible glow and the vapor itself are the only giveaways. Interestingly, because of the on-demand heating, the Firefly tends to produce less smell than session vapes - your herb isn't baking continuously, so the odor doesn't constantly waft out. I've used it on a balcony and even discreetly in a park, and between the short heating and the device's sleek look (it could be mistaken for a nic vape or some gadget), it felt pretty low-key. The Pax 3, by comparison, is slightly smaller and has no visible glow, making Pax a bit more stealth in appearance (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy). But the trade-off is that the Pax's oven will smell more if you stop mid-session, whereas the Firefly lets you vape on your own terms.
Vapor Quality & Flavor
If there's one area the Firefly absolutely shines, it's vapor quality. Both the Firefly 2 and 2+ produce vapor that is remarkably flavorful, smooth, and cool. The first hit from a fresh bowl in a Firefly is often described by connoisseurs as terpene heaven. In my experience, this held true - I was consistently impressed by how well I could taste the subtle flavor notes of different strains. The borosilicate glass vapor path and convection heating really do a great job of preserving flavor. One seasoned reviewer even stated that the Firefly 2 delivers "the best vapor quality you can get out of a portable vaporizer" (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard) in terms of pure taste, and I'm inclined to agree. Compared to other portables I've tried, the Firefly's vapor is less harsh and never has that slight "hot metal" or plastic hint that some devices impart on higher temps.
The vapor temperature that reaches your lips is pleasantly cool, thanks to the short but effective glass pathway and the fact that air only heats as it passes through. Even at the highest herbal setting (~420 °F), I found the vapor comfortable, without the need for water filtration or extra cooling. The Firefly 2+ maintained this excellent vapor quality, and with its easier airflow I noticed I could get slightly denser clouds if I wanted to. Still, it's worth noting: the Firefly is not a "cloud chaser" device by default. It prioritizes flavor over huge plumes of vapor. If you crank the temperature up and draw long, you can certainly get satisfying clouds, but at moderate settings the visible vapor might be lighter than what a full-oven conduction vape (like the Pax 3) would produce. This isn't a downside for me, because the trade-off is efficiency and taste.
Speaking of efficiency, because the convection only cooks your herb during inhale, the Firefly extracts the active compounds very evenly over the session. I do find that stirring the bowl halfway through (especially with the Firefly 2) helps ensure all the herb gets browned uniformly. Every couple of hits I'll pop off the lid and give the bowl a quick stir with the tip of the included cleaning pick. The need to stir is a minor extra step, but it's common with convection vaporizers. The Firefly 2+ still benefits from the occasional stir if you want to fully finish a bowl, though its improved airflow made the extraction a bit more uniform without as much intervention (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard).
Both Firefly models are also compatible with concentrates (like wax or resin) using the included concentrate pads. I've tried the Firefly 2 with a bit of concentrate, and it worked impressively well - delivering a very pure, intense flavor. In fact, the Firefly 2+ is regarded as one of the better portable vapes for concentrates as well as dry herb (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard). That versatility is nice to have in one device, especially if you occasionally like to dab without needing a separate rig.
To sum up vapor quality: if you value flavor above all else, the Firefly 2/2+ is hard to beat. Every puff tastes clean and true to the herb. The vapor is smooth, and you can achieve good potency even with small amounts of material, thanks to the efficient convection. It's a connoisseur's vaporizer - designed for sipping and savoring rather than ripping massive clouds. Even after years of use, I still sometimes get a "wow" moment from the taste the Firefly delivers, especially on that first draw of a fresh load.
Battery Life & Charging
Battery life is often the Achilles heel of portable vaporizers, and the Firefly 2 makes some compromises here, mitigated by a smart solution. The Firefly 2's battery is a removable 770 mAh lithium-ion that sits behind the magnetic door on the backside of the unit. In my use, one fully charged battery was enough for roughly 5-6 bowls on average. A "bowl" for me is about 3-4 good draws, so in total I'd get maybe 20+ draws per charge. This can vary depending on how long you draw and what temperatures you use (higher temps drain more battery). By itself, 5 sessions per charge is a bit limited for a modern vape. However, Firefly includes a second battery in the kit. This is a game-changer - when one battery dies, you simply swap in the spare (a 5-second change) and continue vaping while the first battery charges externally. I loved this feature because it eliminated downtime; effectively, with two batteries you have double the usage time available. Few competitors offer user-replaceable batteries (Pax 3's battery, for instance, is built-in and not swappable).
The Firefly 2+ inherited the same battery system and capacity, but with some efficiency improvements. Through firmware tweaks and hardware tuning, the 2+ manages to get a bit more usage out of each charge. In practice I noticed maybe an extra bowl's worth of life - around 6-8 bowls per charge on the 2+ under similar usage patterns. It's not a night-and-day difference, but any improvement is welcome. Since the 2+ was also sold at a lower price, it came with just one battery in the box (whereas the FF2 originally included two for the higher price). If you get a Firefly 2+, I'd recommend buying a second battery separately to take full advantage of the quick-swap capability.
Charging the Firefly's battery is done via a docking cradle that plugs into USB. You place the device on the small dock (which connects magnetically to contact points on the bottom of the Firefly). The original dock used USB 3.0 for faster charging, and I found it would recharge a dead battery in about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The 2+ uses the same system. You can also charge the battery outside the unit with an external charger (sold separately), but I mostly just used the included dock. One minor drawback: you can't use the Firefly while it's on the charger dock (unlike some pass-through charging vapes), but since it charges relatively quick and you have the spare battery option, this was never a big issue for me.
How does this compare to other vapes? The Pax 3 has a much higher capacity battery (around 3500 mAh) which can last ~8-10 sessions, but because it's non-removable you're out of luck when it's drained - you have to wait for a recharge. Pax also uses a magnetic USB charger and takes about 90+ minutes to fully juice up. In day-to-day terms, both Firefly and Pax can get you through a day of moderate use, but the Firefly's swap-and-go batteries are a lifesaver on longer outings or trips. I often carried the slim spare battery in my pocket and felt secure that I wouldn't run out of power when I wanted to vape.
One thing to note: Because the Firefly heats on-demand, it's actually very battery-efficient in how it uses power. It only drains the battery when you're actively drawing. In contrast, a session vape like the Pax 3 is heating the oven for the entire 5-10 minute session, which can waste battery if you take breaks. So even though the Firefly's battery is smaller, it uses the energy in a targeted way. I appreciated that I wasn't burning through battery (or herb) during idle time. Still, if you're a heavy user who likes back-to-back long sessions, you might find the Firefly needing a battery swap or recharge more frequently than some larger devices. For my style (a few hits here and there), the battery life was sufficient, and the quick swapping made it convenient.
Maintenance & Cleaning
One of the unsung heroes of the Firefly 2 design is how low-maintenance it is. Firefly vaporizers are incredibly easy to clean - in fact, the Firefly 2 was noted for having "some of the lowest upkeep" of any portable vape of its time (Firefly 2 Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard). After using a device like this, it's hard to go back to fiddling with Q-tips and pipes cleaners in narrow vapor paths (looking at you, Pax!). Here's my routine with the Firefly: After every session or two, while the device is still slightly warm, I pop off the magnetic lid. I take the included small brush or a regular cotton swab and gently brush out any spent herb from the glass bowl. Then I give the glass surfaces (the bowl and the inner side of the lid which doubles as the vapor path) a quick wipe. That's basically it. The residue buildup is minimal and mostly confined to the glass, which cleans off easily. Maybe once every dozen sessions I'll use a bit of isopropyl alcohol on a cloth to give the glass a thorough wipe-down and also clean the little stainless steel screen in the bowl. The mouthpiece (a removable plastic piece) can also be pulled out and rinsed or swabbed if needed, but I found it only needed occasional attention.
Because the vapor only travels through a short glass pathway, there are no long tunnels or hidden corners for gunk to accumulate. This means cleaning takes under a minute, with no significant mess. By contrast, when I use my Pax 3 for a while, I have to do a deep clean every 8-10 sessions involving soaking the oven screen, flossing the vapor tube with alcohol-soaked pipe cleaners, etc., which can be a 15-minute chore. The Firefly completely avoids that hassle. I will say that to keep flavor at its peak, I did end up wiping the Firefly's glass pretty frequently - basically a quick maintenance after almost every session. It's so easy that it didn't bother me, and doing so ensures every bowl tastes as good as the first. If you neglect cleaning the Firefly for too long, a bit of residue can build up on the glass that slightly dulls the flavor (and can make the shiny window look hazy). But even then, a quick alcohol wipe restores it to like-new.
The Firefly 2+ shares the same simple maintenance needs. One thing I noticed is that the 2+'s improved airflow actually meant a bit more vapor could condense (since you might take bigger hits), so I found myself sticking to that routine of wiping out after every couple sessions to keep it pristine. As a user who values convenience, I really appreciate this aspect of the Firefly. It's a device that encourages you to keep it clean because it's so straightforward - no excuses to let it get funky. And a clean Firefly truly performs at its best.
In terms of durability, my Firefly 2 has held up well over time. The magnets, sensors, and internal parts have shown no signs of wear after a couple of years. The only part that one needs to be a bit careful with is the removable glass components. The window and bowl are durable glass but of course can crack if dropped on a hard surface. I've dropped my Firefly (onto carpet, luckily) with no issues, but I've heard of a few users cracking the glass by accident. Replacement lids or bowls can be purchased if that ever happens. Overall, with normal use and the occasional careful cleaning, the Firefly 2/2+ is a reliable, long-lasting device that doesn't demand much upkeep - a huge plus for anyone who hates cleaning chores.
Firefly 2 vs Firefly 2+: What's New in the Plus?
If you're deciding between the original Firefly 2 and the newer Firefly 2+, you'll want to know what changed. Having upgraded to the 2+ myself, I can summarize the key differences: the Firefly 2+ focused on refining performance and accessibility while actually coming in at a lower price than the original. Below is a quick comparison table and a breakdown of improvements.
Firefly 2 vs Firefly 2+ Comparison:
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Feature
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Firefly 2
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Firefly 2+
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Release Year
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2016
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2019
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Heating Method
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Dynamic convection (on-demand)
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Dynamic convection (on-demand)
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|
Heat-Up Time
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~3-5 seconds
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~3 seconds (slightly faster)
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Airflow / Draw
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Standard draw resistance (requires slow draw technique)
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~33% increased airflow (easier draws) (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard)
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|
Temperature Control
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5 preset temps + Boost (via app)
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5 preset temps + Boost (via app)
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Concentrate Mode
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Yes (with pad, ~500 °F setting)
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Yes (with pad, ~500 °F setting)
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Battery Use per Charge
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~5-6 bowls (with 770 mAh battery)
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~6-8 bowls (improved efficiency)
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Batteries Included
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2 batteries included
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1 battery included (swappable)
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Charging Dock
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Included (USB 3.0, ~45-60 min charge)
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Included (same dock/charger)
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Device Body
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Magnesium alloy, various finishes; window lid
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Same dimensions and build; updated logo on lid
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Original MSRP
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$329 USD
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$249 USD (launched $80 cheaper) (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy)
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As you can see, the core design and functionality are the same. The Firefly 2+ didn't reinvent the wheel - it took the Firefly 2 and addressed a few pain points while making it more affordable. From my experience, the jump to the 2+ was most noticeable in the easier airflow. The 33% boost in airflow means the draw feels more free and natural, which in turn can produce thicker vapor with less effort. This was a welcome change because it makes the device more approachable for someone who might find the original a bit finicky. I also noticed the firmware optimizations in the 2+ made the heating more consistent; it reached target temp a hair quicker and recovered faster between draws. The difference is subtle (the Firefly 2 was already fast), but the 2+ is effectively instantaneous.
The battery life per charge on the 2+ is slightly better - not dramatically, but enough that I felt I could sometimes squeeze one more session out before swapping batteries. Firefly also improved the battery management via software, so the device uses power more judiciously (and can hold charge in standby longer). On the flip side, the original Firefly 2's higher price tag included a second battery in the box, whereas the 2+'s package had only one battery to start. So if you want that hot-swap capability on the 2+, you might need to purchase an extra battery separately - a small consideration if you're factoring total cost.
One interesting thing Firefly did with the 2+ was drop the price significantly. The Firefly 2+ launched at $249.95, which was $80 cheaper than the Firefly 2's debut price (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy). It's not often that a successor comes in cheaper than its predecessor, especially after adding improvements. This price reduction made the Firefly 2+ one of the more reasonably priced high-end vaporizers at the time of release. It signaled that Firefly Vapor wanted to broaden their audience. Indeed, at $250 the Firefly 2+ was competing squarely with the likes of Pax 3 (which was around $200-250 depending on the kit) and other mid-to-high-end portables, but offering a very unique on-demand convection experience.
In summary, if you're torn between the two: the Firefly 2+ is the better choice unless you find a Firefly 2 at a deep discount and don't mind the slightly harder draw. The 2+ gives you all the goodness of the 2 and polishes the user experience further (while saving you some cash). As someone who upgraded, I can say I was very happy with the improvements - it felt like Firefly Vapor listened to user feedback. Things like the easier draw and the refined firmware made an already great device even more enjoyable and carefree.
Firefly 2 vs. Pax 3 (Competing Vaporizer Comparison)
No vaporizer exists in a vacuum, and many people considering a Firefly will inevitably compare it to other popular devices. The most common comparison is Firefly 2 (or 2+) vs Pax 3, since Pax has been a dominant name in portable herb vapes. I've used both, so let's break down how the Firefly and Pax 3 differ in real-world use. Below is a quick feature comparison table, followed by some personal insights on choosing between them.
Firefly 2 vs Pax 3 Comparison:
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Aspect
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Firefly 2 (Firefly Vapor)
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Pax 3 (Pax Labs)
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Heating Style
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On-demand convection (heat when you draw)
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Session conduction (oven heats continuously)
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|
Heat-Up Time
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~3 seconds (almost instant)
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~15-20 seconds (preheat before session)
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|
Herb Chamber Capacity
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~0.15 grams (small loads efficient)
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~0.25 grams (larger oven; half-pack lid available)
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|
Temperature Control
|
6 presets (340-420°F + boost via app)
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4 presets (355-420°F; precise control via app)
|
|
Vapor Path & Flavor
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Borosilicate glass bowl & path - pure flavor focus
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Stainless steel oven & vapor path - good flavor but less nuanced
|
|
Vapor Production
|
Moderate visible vapor, high flavor (best with slow draws)
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High visible vapor, decent flavor (denser clouds)
|
|
Battery System
|
770 mAh Replaceable battery (swapable, includes spare)
|
~3500 mAh Internal battery (non-removable)
|
|
Sessions per Charge
|
~5-6 bowls per battery (can double with spare)
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~8-10 bowls per charge (cannot swap battery)
|
|
Charging
|
~45-60 min via USB dock (no pass-through use)
|
~90 min via magnetic USB cradle (no pass-through)
|
|
Size & Weight
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Pocketable but a bit larger (5.1″ x 1.4″, ~140g)
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Ultra-compact (4″ x 1.4″, ~95g), very pocket-friendly
|
|
Discreetness
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Low odor, visible glow when in use, unique look
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More odor (during session), very sleek "e-cig" look, no visible glow
|
|
User Interface
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Dual touch sensors, optional app, no built-in display
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Single button, lip-sensing tech, app for advanced settings
|
|
Ease of Use
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Moderate learning curve (technique for best results)
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Very simple operation (works like an oven - fill, heat, draw)
|
|
Maintenance
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Easy - quick unload and wipe glass after use
|
Moderate - needs regular cleaning of oven, vapor path with alcohol
|
|
Warranty
|
2-year limited warranty
|
10-year warranty (industry-leading)
|
Looking at the comparison, the Firefly 2 and Pax 3 represent two different philosophies of vaping:
- Firefly 2 is all about on-demand, flavorful sipping. It's best for someone who wants to take a hit or two at a time, possibly spread out over hours, and really savor the taste. The convection heating and glass pathway give it a flavor edge that even the best conduction vapes struggle to match. It's also more efficient with small amounts of herb and has the benefit of a swappable battery for convenience. On the flip side, it requires a bit more technique to use (you control the draw) and the device itself is a tad larger/heavier in the pocket. The shorter warranty (2 years) is fairly standard, but notably less than Pax's coverage.
- Pax 3, on the other hand, is a session vaporizer. It excels when you want to load a full oven and consume it in one go (or over a short session). It's extremely easy to use: just fill, press a button, wait ~20 seconds, and vape away. It produces thicker clouds with less effort and the smaller form factor is very stealthy. Pax devices also have some innovative tech like lip-sensing (it can adjust heater output based on whether you're drawing or not) and haptic feedback. The 10-year warranty Pax offers is a huge confidence booster - it's one of the best in the industry, showing the company stands by their build quality. The downsides? The flavor, while good, isn't as pure as the Firefly's (especially after the first few hits, the oven's continuous cooking can roast away the most delicate flavors). You also can't really just take "one hit and save the rest" easily - if you stop a Pax session mid-way, your herb will continue to bake until the device cools. This can lead to some wasted material or a less flavorful second session. Maintenance is more involved too; a Pax needs a thorough cleaning periodically to maintain performance.
- In my personal use, I often found that I'd reach for the Firefly 2 when I wanted a quick, high-quality taste or a small session, and I'd choose the Pax 3 when I was sharing with friends or in the mood for a longer session where finishing a whole oven made sense. For example, solo use on a weeknight - Firefly was perfect, giving me two or three hits and I was done. At a social gathering or when I didn't want to think about technique - the Pax was convenient to load up and pass around, delivering consistent clouds for everyone.
- It's worth noting that with the release of the Firefly 2+, some of the Firefly 2's drawbacks were minimized, making it an even closer competitor to Pax 3. The easier draw of the 2+ means newbies can get good results without frustration, and the price drop put it in the same ballpark as Pax. So the choice really boils down to your priorities: flavor and on-demand flexibility (Firefly) vs. simplicity and stealthy sessioning (Pax).
- From an unbiased standpoint, both are excellent devices - they just cater to slightly different styles of vaping. If you are a flavor chaser or tend to consume small amounts throughout the day, you'll likely lean toward the Firefly. If you value a ultra-portable form and tend to do full sessions or share bowls, the Pax might fit better. As someone who has enjoyed both, I can honestly say you won't be disappointed with the vapor from either one - but the Firefly's first draw will almost certainly taste better, while the Pax's last draw of a session will likely be thicker.
(For further reading on detailed comparisons, you might check out a dedicated Pax 3 vs Firefly review like this one by a vape enthusiast site (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy) (Pax 3 vs Firefly 2+ - Vape Guy), which echoes many of the above points.)
Conclusion
Both the Firefly 2 and Firefly 2+ have proven to be exceptional portable vaporizers in my experience, especially for those who prioritize flavor, efficiency, and a personalized pacing of their sessions. The Firefly 2 set a high benchmark with its on-demand convection heating, delivering nearly instant, smooth vapor that truly lets you taste your herb's profile. Its elegant design, premium build, and easy maintenance made it a favorite in my rotation for a long time. The Firefly 2+ took that foundation and refined it - by improving airflow, battery management, and accessibility - all while coming in at a more wallet-friendly price. It feels like the "polished" version of the device, addressing the few nitpicks I had with the original.
In a market crowded with great vaporizers, the Firefly stands out as a connoisseur's device. It's for the user who might stop mid-hike to savor a single hit of vapor, or who enjoys the ritual of a perfect draw. It's also for the user who doesn't mind a tiny learning curve if it means getting the best possible flavor. When compared to a strong competitor like the Pax 3, the Firefly holds its own: it outshines in flavor and flexibility of use, while the Pax edges it out in portability and ease of use for full sessions. Many people (myself included) are happy owning both - using each in different scenarios.
A few final takeaways to consider: If you can still find a Firefly 2+ (keep in mind the company has discontinued production as of late 2024, so they're becoming rarer), it's arguably one of the best deals for a high-end vaporizer, especially if you value on-demand usage. Just remember that with Firefly out of the market now, long-term support (warranties, parts) might be limited (Firefly 2+ (Plus) Vaporizer Review - Vaporizer Wizard). The Pax 3, meanwhile, remains in production (Pax Labs even released newer models, but the Pax 3 is still a solid choice) and offers that long warranty and support.
For me, the Firefly 2+ has a special place because of the experiences it enabled - those perfect, flavorful sips of relaxation at my own pace. Maintenance is a breeze, the device feels premium, and the vapor quality still makes me smile. If those are things high on your list, you will likely love the Firefly as much as I do. On the other hand, if you just want something simple and foolproof for knocking out a quick session or two without thinking, you might lean towards a Pax or similar.
In conclusion, the Firefly 2 and 2+ are fantastic vaporizers for the discerning user. They showed the industry how on-demand convection can be implemented in a portable form, and they continue to be a benchmark for flavor quality. Whether you're a flavor aficionado, a tech-savvy vaper who appreciates innovation, or simply someone looking for a vape that can keep up with intermittent use, the Firefly deserves serious consideration. I've thoroughly enjoyed my time with both devices, and I hope this personal insight helps you make an informed decision on your vaping journey. Happy vaping, and savor those terps!
Meta Description: Discover how the Firefly 2 and 2+ compare in design, performance, vapor quality, and more - with personal insights and a Pax 3 comparison to help you choose.
