Caliburn A3S vs G3: Which Wins? The Ultimate Caliburn Comparison
If you’re a fan of pod vapes, chances are you’ve come across the Uwell Caliburn series. Known for sleek design, flavorful output, and simplicity, Caliburn has earned its spot among top vaping devices. But if you’re trying to choose between the Caliburn A3S and the Caliburn G3, you’re not alone. This article offers a thorough Caliburn comparison to help you decide which device delivers better performance, convenience, and value.
Design and Build Quality
Caliburn A3S: Slim and Stylish Simplicity
The A3S maintains the minimalist DNA of the original Caliburn line. It features an ultra-lightweight aluminum alloy body, compact form, and no buttons. Its elegant form factor fits easily in the hand or pocket, and the device is draw-activated only, which appeals to those who prefer simplicity without the risk of accidental firing.
Caliburn G3: Bold, Feature-Rich Design
In contrast, the G3 takes a slightly different direction. It’s a bit larger, more angular, and includes a side-mounted display screen and firing button. This allows both auto-draw and button-activated vaping. While slightly bulkier, the G3 feels more premium, offering a satisfying tactile experience and better grip due to its texture and weight balance.
Pod and Coil System
Caliburn A3S: Fixed Coil Simplicity
One of the biggest changes in the A3S is the introduction of non-removable coils. Instead of swapping coils, you simply replace the pod. This makes maintenance incredibly easy, perfect for beginners or those who prioritize convenience over customization. The A3S pods come with 1.0Ω or 0.8Ω built-in mesh coils for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping.
Caliburn G3: Replaceable Coils with Wider Variety
The G3 uses a more advanced pod system. It supports both replaceable coils and fixed-coil pods depending on your preference. Available coils include a 0.6Ω mesh for restricted direct-lung (RDL) and a 0.9Ω mesh for MTL. This flexibility gives you more control over your vape experience, though it comes with a slightly steeper learning curve.
Battery Life and Charging
A3S: 520mAh Battery with USB-C
With a 520mAh battery, the A3S delivers a full day of moderate vaping. It recharges quickly via USB-C, and an LED light gives battery status in three colors: green, blue, and red. The absence of a screen or power settings helps preserve battery life.
G3: 900mAh Battery with OLED Screen
Here’s where the G3 really shines. Its 900mAh battery supports longer usage—up to two days for light users. The OLED screen displays battery percentage, wattage settings, and puff count. While the screen does drain more power, the larger battery compensates for it nicely. USB-C charging also ensures quick turnaround times.
Performance and Flavor
Caliburn A3S: Consistent and Smooth
The A3S delivers the signature Caliburn flavor — smooth, clean, and consistent. It’s particularly good for salt nicotine users who prefer MTL draws. The auto-draw is responsive, and the pod wicking is efficient, with minimal leaking reported. However, it lacks wattage control, so users are limited to the factory output levels of the coil.
Caliburn G3: Customizable and Powerful
G3 offers adjustable wattage up to 25W, giving users more control. This allows you to tweak your hit to be cooler or warmer depending on your preference. The 0.6Ω coil is great for freebase nicotine or a slightly stronger throat hit, while the 0.9Ω coil is perfect for salt nic and smoother sessions. It’s an ideal choice for users who want more intensity and freedom in their vape experience.
Ease of Use
A3S: Perfect for Beginners
If you’re new to vaping or prefer plug-and-play functionality, the A3S is tailor-made for you. Just fill the pod, snap it in, and you’re ready to vape. No buttons, no settings — just clean performance with zero complications.
G3: Slightly Complex but More Flexible
The G3 is still user-friendly but introduces variable wattage, screen navigation, and both button and auto-draw activation. These features are appreciated by more experienced users but may be slightly intimidating to absolute beginners. However, once familiar, the interface is intuitive and adds depth to the vaping experience.
Leak Resistance and Durability
Both the A3S and G3 are built with improved leak resistance compared to earlier Caliburn models. Uwell’s Pro-FOCS flavor technology and updated pod seals do a great job of preventing spills. However, the G3’s larger battery compartment makes it a bit sturdier overall. The A3S is more susceptible to dents due to its lightweight aluminum build but remains reliable with daily use.
Price and Value
The A3S typically retails at a lower price point, making it more affordable upfront. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality pod vape. The G3 is priced slightly higher but brings more value in terms of performance, customization, and battery life. Over time, replaceable coils may be more cost-effective than full pod replacements if you vape frequently.
Caliburn Comparison Summary
In this Caliburn comparison, both the A3S and G3 shine in different areas. The A3S excels in simplicity, portability, and beginner-friendly use. It’s ideal for MTL vapers who just want a reliable, no-fuss device. The G3, on the other hand, is perfect for those who enjoy tweaking wattage, switching coils, and getting more out of their pod system. It offers superior battery life, broader coil options, and more advanced features.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer in the A3S vs G3 showdown. If you value simplicity, portability, and ease of use, the Caliburn A3S is the better pick. But if you’re an intermediate or advanced vaper looking for customization, extended battery life, and stronger performance, go with the Caliburn G3. Ultimately, the winner depends on your vaping style and preferences.
FAQ
What is the main difference between Caliburn A3S and G3?
The A3S offers simplicity with fixed coil pods and no buttons, while the G3 provides advanced features like adjustable wattage, an OLED screen, and replaceable coils.
Is the Caliburn G3 better than the A3S?
It depends. The G3 is better for those who want more control and stronger performance, but the A3S is ideal for beginners and casual users who prefer a simpler setup.
Which Caliburn device has better battery life?
The Caliburn G3 wins in this category with a 900mAh battery compared to the A3S’s 520mAh, offering longer usage between charges.
Can I use salt nic in both Caliburn A3S and G3?
Yes, both devices work well with salt nicotine, especially the 0.8Ω and 1.0Ω pods for A3S and the 0.9Ω coil for the G3.
Does the Caliburn G3 leak less than the A3S?
Both are built with anti-leak design improvements, but user reports suggest similar leak resistance in both models. Proper pod maintenance is key to preventing leaks.
Do Caliburn A3S and G3 use the same pods?
No, each device has its own unique pod design. Pods are not cross-compatible between the A3S and G3.
Which is more durable for daily use?
The G3 is slightly more robust due to its heavier build and larger form, making it more durable in rougher conditions.
