Overview
The Pulsar APX Volt V3 represents the latest evolution of one of the most popular concentrate vape pens on the market. This third-generation device refines the formula that made its predecessors successful: pure quartz coil-less heating for exceptional flavor, variable voltage control for customization, and a compact form factor that slips easily into any pocket.
At 3.5 inches tall with a 1100mAh battery, the APX Volt V3 strikes an ideal balance between portability and capability. The star of the show remains the pure quartz cup atomizer, which heats concentrates without the metallic interference that can plague coil-based systems.
For concentrate enthusiasts seeking a reliable daily driver that prioritizes flavor without breaking the bank, the APX Volt V3 delivers remarkable value at under $50.
Design & Build Quality
The APX Volt V3 features a streamlined, pen-style design that prioritizes functionality without sacrificing aesthetics. The aluminum body provides durability while keeping weight manageable, and the overall construction feels solid in hand.
Form Factor
At 3.5 inches tall, the V3 is genuinely pocket-friendly. Unlike bulkier concentrate devices, this pen disappears into jeans pockets, jacket pockets, or small bags without creating an obvious bulge. The slim profile also makes it discreet during use.
Enhanced LED Display
New to the V3 is an enhanced LED display that provides clearer visual feedback. The improved indicators make it easier to identify your current voltage setting and device status, addressing a common complaint about earlier versions.
Build Materials
Pulsar uses quality materials throughout:
- Aluminum body for durability and heat dissipation
- Pure quartz atomizer cup
- Medical-grade silicone seals
- Quality button mechanism with satisfying click
Atomizer Design
The coil-less quartz cup atomizer is the V3's defining feature. Unlike traditional coil atomizers that use metal heating elements in direct contact with concentrates, the quartz cup provides:
- Even heat distribution across the entire surface
- No metallic taste interference
- Easier cleaning than coil systems
- More durable than fragile coils
Features
Four Voltage Settings
The APX Volt V3 offers four preset voltage levels:
| Voltage | Best For | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 2.5V | Maximum flavor | Light vapor, terpene preservation |
| 2.8V | Balanced low-temp | Good flavor, moderate vapor |
| 3.2V | Balanced high-temp | Reduced flavor, increased vapor |
| 3.7V | Maximum vapor | Dense clouds, intense effects |
Cycle through settings with three rapid button clicks. The LED indicator shows your current selection.
Pure Quartz Coil-less Cup
The pure quartz heating surface is the heart of the V3's performance:
Flavor Benefits:
- No metallic taste from coils
- Pure terpene expression
- Clean, smooth vapor
Practical Benefits:
- Even heating prevents hot spots
- No coils to burn out or replace
- Easy to clean with cotton swabs
- Durable quartz construction
2-Click Hands-Free Mode
The hands-free power mode eliminates the need to hold the button during draws:
- With device on, double-click the power button
- Heating activates and maintains temperature
- Draw freely without holding any buttons
- Click again to deactivate
This feature is perfect for group sessions, longer draws, or simply more relaxed operation.
Fast Heat-Up
The V3 reaches operational temperature in approximately 5 seconds, minimizing wait time between desire and satisfaction. The quick heat-up also contributes to efficiency, as there's less time for heat loss before you begin drawing.
USB-C Charging
Upgraded from previous versions, the V3 features USB-C charging:
- Faster charging speeds
- Reversible connector orientation
- More durable port design
- Universal cable compatibility
Performance
Flavor Quality
This is where the APX Volt V3 truly excels. The pure quartz cup delivers flavor clarity that rivals devices costing significantly more. At 2.5V, we could distinguish subtle terpene notes in quality live resin that might be muted by coil-based atomizers.
The absence of metal heating elements means nothing interferes with the natural flavor profile of your concentrates. This makes the V3 particularly appealing for users who invest in premium extracts and want to actually taste what they paid for.
Vapor Production
While the V3 can produce satisfying clouds at higher voltages, it's optimized more for flavor than massive vapor production. At 3.7V, vapor density is respectable and effects are pronounced, but cloud chasers focused purely on output might prefer more powerful devices.
That said, the vapor quality at all settings is smooth and comfortable. The quartz cup doesn't produce the harsh, burnt taste that overheated coils can create.
Temperature Control in Practice
The four voltage settings provide meaningful differentiation:
- 2.5V: Subtle vapor, exceptional flavor - ideal for high-quality concentrates
- 2.8V: Our favorite balance - good flavor with visible vapor
- 3.2V: Noticeable increase in vapor density with acceptable flavor
- 3.7V: Maximum output, flavor becomes secondary to effects
We found ourselves primarily using 2.8V for daily sessions, dropping to 2.5V for premium concentrates and occasionally boosting to 3.2V when more pronounced effects were desired.
Battery Life
The 1100mAh battery provides solid longevity for moderate users:
- Light users (2-4 sessions daily): 2-3 days per charge
- Moderate users (5-8 sessions daily): Full day of use
- Heavy users: May need mid-day top-up
The quick USB-C charging means even heavy users won't be stranded for long.
Heat-Up Speed
The 5-second heat-up time is impressively quick. Press and hold the button (or activate hands-free mode), and you're ready to draw almost immediately. This speed also means you're not wasting heat before your draw begins.
Who Is This For?
The Pulsar APX Volt V3 is ideal for:
- Flavor enthusiasts who prioritize taste over massive clouds
- Daily users seeking a reliable, portable concentrate vape
- Value seekers wanting premium quartz heating under $50
- Beginners looking for an accessible entry into concentrate vaping
- On-the-go users who need true pocket portability
It may not be ideal for:
- Cloud chasers who prioritize maximum vapor production
- Heavy users who need larger batteries
- Water filtration fans who want bubbler attachments
- Temperature precision seekers who want exact degree control
The Bottom Line
The Pulsar APX Volt V3 successfully delivers on its promise: pure, flavorful concentrate vaporization in a compact, affordable package. The quartz coil-less cup technology punches well above its price point, providing flavor quality that competes with much more expensive devices.
The four voltage settings offer enough range to satisfy different preferences, while features like hands-free mode and USB-C charging demonstrate attention to user experience. At 3.5 inches, it's one of the more portable concentrate vapes that doesn't sacrifice meaningful functionality.
At under $50, the APX Volt V3 represents one of the best values in the concentrate vape market. For users who appreciate their concentrates' flavor profiles, this device ensures you taste what you paid for.
Related: Pulsar APX Volt V3 Manual