Overview
The Yocan Kodo Star is a compact 510 box mod built for vapers who want precise voltage control without carrying a brick in their pocket. It's part of Yocan's Kodo series, which has a solid reputation for portability. The Kodo Star adds a striking LED display and a wider voltage range to the lineup. Think of it as the middle ground between basic pen batteries and full-sized box mods. It works well for newcomers learning about variable voltage and experienced users who need a discrete backup device.
What We Tested
Our hands-on testing methodology
Unit Tested
Kodo Star (Black)
Testing Period
7 days of use
Voltages Tested
1.8V to 4.2V range
Cartridges Tested
5 different carts
Battery Life
400mAh capacity
LED Display
Galactic effect tested
Design & Build Quality
The Kodo Star lives up to its name with a tiny footprint. At just 57mm x 23mm x 18.5mm, it's one of the smallest box mods you can buy. It fits in your palm or disappears into a pocket without that obvious bulge.
Yocan went with durable plastic to keep the weight down while maintaining decent durability. Metal would feel more premium, sure, but plastic allows for the vibrant color options: Black, White, Pink, Purple, and Blue. The finish is smooth with a slight matte texture that resists fingerprints and feels secure in your hand.
The real showstopper is the LED display with Yocan's "galactic" effect. It shows real-time voltage, battery level, and session time with a cosmic look that makes the device feel pricier than it is. The 510 connection sits centered on top and handles cartridges up to 11mm in diameter without overhang on most options.
Features
Precision Voltage Control
The Kodo Star covers a voltage range from 1.8V to 4.2V, adjustable in 0.1V increments. This level of control lets you dial in the exact voltage for your cartridge -- go low for flavor or crank it up for bigger clouds. The wide range works with pretty much any 510 cartridge out there.
Full LED Display
The LED display isn't just for looks. It shows your current voltage setting, remaining battery percentage, and active session duration. The galactic visual effect adds personality while staying easy to read in different lighting conditions.
Pre-heat Function
A 10-second pre-heat function warms up thicker oils before your session. This comes in handy for high-viscosity concentrates that have thickened in cold temperatures. You'll get consistent vapor from the first draw instead of weak initial hits.
USB-C Fast Charging
USB-C charging means you can top up the 400mAh battery in about 48 minutes. Finding a compatible cable is never a problem, and the fast charge time keeps you vaping without long breaks between sessions.
Performance
In daily use, the Kodo Star performs well for its size and price. The variable voltage system responds quickly when you make adjustments, and the device fires consistently. No delays or misfires like you sometimes get with cheap batteries.
Lower voltage settings (1.8V-2.5V) preserve terpene profiles and deliver smooth, flavorful hits. Mid-range settings (2.6V-3.5V) give you a balanced experience that works for most cartridges. Higher voltages (3.6V-4.2V) produce big clouds, though some cartridges may taste harsh up there.
Battery life depends on how you use it and what voltage you run. Casual users can get a full day or more between charges. Heavy users running higher voltages might need to charge twice a day. The quick charge time helps make up for the modest battery capacity.
The 510 threading is well-machined and connects securely without cross-threading. Cartridges seat firmly and make consistent electrical contact, which matters for reliable performance.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Ultra-compact design fits easily in any pocket
- Precise 0.1V voltage increments for dialing in perfect settings
- Eye-catching LED display with useful real-time information
- USB-C fast charging minimizes downtime
- Solid value at under $20
Cons:
- 400mAh battery may need frequent charging for power users
- Plastic body feels less premium than metal competitors
Verdict
The Yocan Kodo Star delivers pro-level voltage control in a compact package for $20. It's a smart pick for beginners who want to experiment with voltage settings without spending much, and it works great as a pocket mod for experienced vapers on the go. The LED display looks cooler than you'd expect at this price, and USB-C fast charging keeps you vaping with minimal downtime. Heavy users might want more battery capacity, but the Kodo Star earns its spot as one of the best values in the compact box mod category.
Related: Yocan Kodo Star Manual | Yocan Kodo Pro Review