Jessica Tyson
14/07/2025 • 5 min read
For those transitioning from smoking or seeking a discreet and satisfying vape, mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping remains a popular choice, and for good reason. Mimicking the familiar tight draw of a traditional cigarette, MTL devices deliver focused flavour and nicotine without the voluminous vapour clouds associated with direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping. If you're seeking to upgrade from disposable vapes or simply desire a more tailored MTL experience, two prominent contenders emerge: the streamlined JUUL2 and the versatile OXVA XLIM Pro 2.
The JUUL2, an evolution of a pioneering closed-pod system, is celebrated for its unparalleled ease of use and sleek portability. In contrast, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 represents the modern refillable pod vape, boasting adjustable settings and the flexibility to fine-tune your MTL draw.
But which of these devices provides the ultimate MTL satisfaction? Let's compare them directly to determine which comes out on top.
Before diving into the comparison, it's important to define what we mean by a "good" MTL vape. A satisfying MTL hit typically includes:
Devices that allow fine-tuning of airflow and wattage can often tailor the MTL experience more closely, but the importance of simplicity and consistent performance should not be overlooked.
These two devices embody distinct approaches to MTL vaping, catering to different priorities. Let's explore what each has to offer.
Building upon the legacy of its predecessor, the JUUL2 offers a refined and incredibly portable vaping experience squarely focused on ease of use and providing a familiar transition for those moving away from smoking. As a closed-pod system, it prioritises simplicity above all else.
The latest iteration in OXVA's popular XLIM series, the OXVA Xlim Pro 2 is a powerful and versatile refillable pod device designed for vapers who desire greater control over their MTL experience. Its robust feature set caters to both flavour enthusiasts and those seeking a more personalised vape.
Lifting the JUUL2 from its packaging, the first thing that strikes you is its incredibly light weight at just 14 grams. It feels almost featherlight in your hand, and its size is immediately apparent, even smaller than a traditional cigarette. There's a refreshing lack of fuss; no cables, no separate parts to assemble, just the sleek device itself. The smooth, matte finish is pleasant to the touch, and the four discreet LED indicators offer a subtle hint of its modern functionality. A quick double-tap brings them to life, displaying the battery level - a welcome touch of practicality right out of the box.
By contrast, the XLIM Pro 2 feels premium and tech-forward. Picking it up, you immediately notice the weight - a solid 67 grams that speaks to its robust aluminium alloy construction. The cool metal feels premium in your hand, and the overall design exudes a sense of quality. The vibrant colour screen catches the eye, promising a degree of customisation beyond the JUUL2's simplicity. Despite its more significant size, the rounded edges and thoughtful design make it feel comfortable and surprisingly pocketable. There's clearly more going on here, a device that invites exploration of its features.
The fundamental aspect of any MTL device lies in the quality of its draw, and the JUUL2 and OXVA XLIM Pro 2 present distinctly different experiences in this regard.
The JUUL2 delivers a draw that is immediately familiar to those transitioning from traditional cigarettes. The resistance is firmly on the tighter side, closely mimicking the restricted airflow of a smoke, and the throat hit is notably sharp and pronounced, further emulating that sensation. The vapour produced is smooth and consistent, with a subtle warmth that contributes to the overall familiar feel. However, the airflow on the JUUL2 is fixed, offering no options for adjustment. This means the experience is consistent and predictable but lacks the ability to be tailored to individual preferences.
In contrast, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 offers a far more versatile approach to its MTL draw, thanks to its fully adjustable airflow via a convenient side slider. This allows users to fine-tune the resistance from a very tight, cigarette-like pull to something noticeably airier. The throat hit on the XLIM Pro 2 is also highly tunable, influenced by both the wattage settings and the resistance of the pod being used. Lower wattage with higher resistance pods can produce a sharper hit, while increasing the power can lead to a warmer, denser vapour with a different style of throat feel. The vapour production is generally denser than the JUUL2, yet remains smooth on the inhale, with the warmth becoming more pronounced at higher wattage levels.
Winner: OXVA XLIM Pro 2
The adjustable airflow and wattage settings provide users with significantly greater control over their MTL experience, making it the winner in this category.
In regard to flavour and nicotine delivery, the JUUL2 and OXVA XLIM Pro 2 again present contrasting approaches, largely dictated by their closed versus open pod systems.
The JUUL2, being a closed system, relies on its proprietary pre-filled JUUL2 pods. These pods use nicotine salt formulations, which are well-known for providing a rapid and satisfying nicotine hit, closely mimicking the immediate satisfaction many ex-smokers seek. The flavour profiles offered by JUUL are generally clean and consistent, focusing on a curated selection that leans heavily towards familiar tobacco and menthol options. While some fruit and mint variations exist, the cigarette-adjacent and classic menthol flavours seem to suggest a focus on appealing to those transitioning from traditional smoking. While the quality of flavour delivery is reliable within this limited range, users are restricted to the flavours and nicotine strengths offered by JUUL. This lack of flexibility means that personal flavour preferences beyond the available options cannot be accommodated, and users are tied to JUUL's ecosystem for their e-liquids.
In contrast, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2, with its support for a wide array of refillable pods and compatibility with pre-filled XLIM pods, offers significantly greater freedom in terms of both flavour and nicotine delivery. Users can choose from the vast spectrum of e-liquids available on the market, whether they prefer nicotine salts in various strengths and flavour profiles or even traditional freebase nicotine options. The flavour depth and clarity achieved with the XLIM Pro 2, particularly when using the 0.8Ω or 1.2Ω pods which are specifically designed for MTL vaping, are often cited as impressive. This versatility allows vapers to experiment with different flavour nuances and tailor their nicotine intake precisely to their needs and preferences. The ability to select their own e-liquids not only caters to individual tastes but can also be more cost-effective in the long run, as we’ll explore later on in this article.
Winner: OXVA XLIM Pro 2
The significantly wider flavour range and the unrestricted flexibility to choose and use any compatible e-liquid provide a clear advantage in this category.
The JUUL2 and OXVA XLIM Pro 2 again sit at opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to user-friendliness and upkeep.
The JUUL2 epitomises simplicity. Its inhale-activated firing mechanism means there are no buttons to press or settings to adjust; you simply draw to vape. The pre-filled pods are designed to be disposable and entirely mess-free - once empty, they are simply removed and replaced with a fresh one. This eliminates the need for manual e-liquid refills, making it an incredibly convenient option, especially for beginners or those who prefer a completely hands-off approach. As we’ll explore next, even charging is straightforward, although it relies on a proprietary magnetic dock, meaning you'll need to keep track of the specific charger. Overall, the JUUL2 offers an unparalleled level of ease of use and requires virtually no maintenance beyond charging the device and swapping pods.
In contrast, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 requires a bit more user engagement but offers greater control in return. While it features both button and inhale activation for vaping, the refillable pod system necessitates manually filling the pods with your chosen e-liquid, either via a top or side fill port. This process, while simple enough, adds a step compared to the JUUL2's pre-filled system. Additionally, pods will eventually need to be replaced as the coil inside degrades over time. While the adjustable wattage and airflow offer a significant advantage in customisation, they do introduce a small learning curve for new users who may need to experiment to find their ideal settings. Despite these minor maintenance tasks and potential initial adjustments, the XLIM Pro 2 remains relatively user-friendly, especially for those willing to invest a little more effort for a more tailored vaping experience.
Winner: JUUL2
For absolute beginners or users who prioritise ultimate simplicity and zero maintenance, the JUUL2 remains the clear winner in this category.
The JUUL2 is equipped with a 328mAh battery. While this capacity is sufficient to typically last through a single JUUL2 pod, heavy users may find themselves needing to recharge more frequently throughout the day. As mentioned above, the charging method for the JUUL2 involves a proprietary magnetic dock. This system is simple to use, as the device magnetically snaps into place, but it means relying on a specific charger, as it is not compatible with standard USB cables. This lack of universal compatibility can be inconvenient if the charger is misplaced or if you're travelling and prefer to use a single cable for multiple devices.
In stark contrast, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 boasts a substantial 1300mAh battery. This significantly larger capacity translates to exceptional battery life for MTL vapers, often lasting for several days on a single charge depending on usage. Also, by using a modern USB-C port for charging, it offers greater convenience through its compatibility with numerous chargers and cables. An added benefit is the fast charging capability of the USB-C port, allowing the device to be fully charged in approximately 30 minutes.
Winner: OXVA XLIM Pro 2
With its significantly larger battery capacity and the convenience of a modern USB-C fast charging solution, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 is the winner in this category.
The ongoing expenses associated with each device and the overall value they offer are important considerations for vapers. Here, the fundamental difference in their pod systems (closed versus open) has a significant impact.
With its exclusive reliance on proprietary pre-filled pods, which retail for £6.99 per pack, the JUUL2 presents a higher ongoing expense. Users are restricted from using third-party e-liquids or potentially more affordable alternatives, leading to accumulated costs for regular vapers.
On the other hand, the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 offers the potential for significant long-term savings. By purchasing e-liquid in bottles, users can drastically reduce their per-vape cost compared to buying pre-filled pods. The wide availability of affordable nicotine salt e-liquids further enhances the cost-effectiveness of the XLIM Pro 2. The freedom to choose e-liquids not only caters to individual preferences but also allows users to take advantage of sales and bulk purchases, ultimately offering greater value for money over the lifespan of the device.
Winner: OXVA XLIM Pro 2
The refillable pod system and the ability to use a wide range of more affordable e-liquids make the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 the more economical choice in the long run, offering better overall value.
Ultimately, the choice between the JUUL2 and the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 hinges on individual priorities and vaping preferences.
If your primary focus is on a seamless transition from smoking, or if you value absolute simplicity and minimal fuss, the JUUL2 remains a compelling option. Its tight, cigarette-like draw and straightforward operation provide a familiar experience without the complexities of adjustable settings or refilling. The discreet size and ease of use make it an ideal companion for those who prioritise portability and a no-nonsense approach to vaping. However, users should be mindful of the limited flavour range and the ongoing cost associated with JUUL pods.
If you’re looking for a more versatile MTL experience, OXVA XLIM Pro 2 emerges as the clear frontrunner. Its adjustable airflow and wattage allow for precise control over the draw and throat hit, catering to a wider spectrum of preferences. The freedom to choose from an extensive range of e-liquids not only enhances flavour exploration but also offers significant long-term cost savings. While it requires a bit more user engagement in terms of refilling and occasional adjustments, the benefits of customisation, extended battery life, and a more economical running cost make it an excellent choice for ex-disposable users looking to upgrade or anyone wanting greater control over their MTL vape.
Both the JUUL2 and the OXVA XLIM Pro 2 are capable MTL devices, each with its own set of strengths, but we hope this detailed comparison has provided the insights needed to make an informed decision that best suits your individual vaping journey.
