Overview
The Starry has been around for some time, and might even seem a bit dated for 2021, but it is still a very capable unit. It has a ceramic bowl, fully adjustable temperature, it is solidly built, and it can produce a lot of vapor with decent flavour. The Starry units have a long history, and the newest third generation is a mature, full featured, and reliable device.
Performance
The Starry is an 18650 powered full conduction vaporizer. The temperature can be adjusted from 249F to 464F. It heats up quickly in 30-45 seconds. The session length can be adjusted; the unit I have defaulted to a 5-minute session. This includes the time to heat, so it leaves about 4 minutes of useable time.
The default session works me. A typical run would be load, and then two back-to-back sessions. Two sessions at 409F leave the AVB looking like very dark ground coffee; everything has been extracted.
Of the vapes I own, the Starry produces the most vapor. This, however, is my experience. Everyone is unique. That said, getting the vapor out of the vape can be a challenge.
Draw on the Starry is impeded by its small mouthpiece. Even unpacked, there isn't much airflow. The way around the lesser airflow, is puffing or drawing on the Starry, like a pipe. An alternative is a long slow draw of 12-25 seconds filling the mouth and lungs. To be clear, it is not default to draw, but it takes time because of the reduced airflow.
When it comes to flavour, the Starry is very good. Even at lower temperatures, there is no shortage of flavour. Up the temperature, and it can produce some big clouds. Bump the temperature up higher, and you can be sure that everything has been extracted from the herb.
Packing and cleaning
Packing isn't an issue with the Starry. ground herb, ripped herb, crushed nuggets; this unit isn't fussy. The design of the Starry is such that, at high temperatures, and a couple sessions will extract everything. Use caution, however, the temps run hot. This unit works great with concentrates like kief or shatter mixed in with the herb. Given the ability to reach 464F, care must be exercised to not combust in the oven.
Cleaning takes some time, effort, and alcohol. The Starry clogs easily and regular cleaning is a must. There are two screens in the Starry that get clogged and create problems The entire top can be disassembled and soaked in alcohol; that is the proper way of cleaning. Alternately, it's possible to drop entire top in alcohol; again, a ziplock bag and some 99% alcohol can do wonders.
What's good? What's an issue?
There is a lot of good in this vape. Parts are readily available and cheap. The top is where all the action is; and its the top that needs regular cleaning. Given the availability, my solution was to purchase a second top. While one is in use, the other is soaking in alcohol. When it comes to accessories, there are lots of addons. The waterpipe adapter is highly recommended. The unit is solid; this is a vape that can go into a pocket without fear of damage. Built out of aluminum, the Starry feels solid, sturdy, and capable of surviving even less than careful use.
Battery life is decent even when used at high temperatures. It is normal to get 4-5 sessions per charge; better batteries can add a few more sessions. One of batteries I use is linked below. As with any portable vape, better batteries means better performance. Stick with Molicel, Panasonic, or other trusted 18650.
The Panasonic NCR18650B is a great all-round battery. ✅ Buy now with fast shipping and our unique 100% satisfaction warranty!
ca.planetofthevapes.com
As for the bad, the big thing would be limited airflow. Some may not like the Starry because its slow airflow requires patience. Using a bong with the WPA definitely helps, but that doesn't exactly fit with the idea of a portable vape. Second would be clogged screens; the Starry clogs and needs to be cleaned every 6-8 sessions. Airflow isn't great to begin with, and when clogged, the unit is useless.
Cost
The Starry v3 is reasonable priced right around $100. Right now, whether Canadian website or US, they are $100.
What's included
1 x Starry Max 3.0 Vaporizer
1 x 5A 2500mAh 18650 Battery
1 x Cleaning Set (Brush, Tool, Tweezers) -
1 x Metal Mouthpiece Screen
2 x Silicone Mouthpiece Screen
2 x Mouthpiece Tip O-Ring
2 x Heating Chamber Screen
1 x Instruction Manual
1 x Wax Cup
Summary
If you are looking for a hard-hitting, 18650 powered portable vape, you need to check out the Starry. However, if you are someone who vapes more than 6 or 7 times a day, you might want to look at something different.
The Starry is made for sipping not ripping, but when paired with a WPA it certainly improves getting the vapor out of the Starry and into the lungs.
For me personally, out of all the vapes I own, the Starry delivers the most powerful psychoactive effects. Again, I stress that everyone is unique. What works for one person may not work for the next.
Given the price, the Starry is a great value. It is a capable unit, parts are cheap and readily available, and it has a proven history. Whether first-timer or seasoned vaper, it is not a bad unit to add to one's arsenal.