Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC Pod Mod Kit Review: A Power Bank Alternative?

To some extent, we can take Obelisk 65 FC as a premier version of another Geekvape’s new launch, Obelisk 65. “FC” is probably the abbreviation for fast charging, which is the most significant update out there. In other aspects, the two are basically the same. They’ve got same dimension, same working temperature and same output range of 5-60W.

After days of testing on the Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC, we’ve sorted through all the device’s pros and cons in the paragraphs below. By the way, we highlight aspects we like in green, and those we don’t in red, to make your reading easier. Let’s kick it off!

Product Info

Performance (Smart Mode) – 8.5

We kept Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC under smart mode when testing its vapor performance, to ensure the output watt is optimal. As the coil we tested was 0.2Ω, the pod mod recommended a watt somewhere between 40 and 50. We found the flavor was in its prime at 40W, intense and mellow to a tee. When the power climbed up to 50, the sweetness could go overboard. No big issues like burnt taste or spit back appeared throughout the test. Generally speaking, the atomization of Geekvape’s coils is above average, especially so in view of the vapor smoothness and flavor delivery.

Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC kit includes a coil tool in. That could lend you a hand if you got trouble in removing the coils.

Function – 9

Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC has up to seven modes to choose from, far exceeding most of its counterparts. They include SMART, POWER, TC-SS, TC-TCR, VPC, BYPASS and OTG.

For avid experienced vapers, more choices certainly represent more dynamic fun in vaping. However, that could possibly make beginners’ heads spin instead. In our opinions, the most recommended modes beginners could quickly lay their hands on are SMART and TC mode. The former will automatically tune the device to appropriate power after reading our coils, and the latter could keep the device under the highest temperature it could bear.

In Obelisk 65 FC, the biggest highlight is actually its OTG mode that enables reverse charging. It’s also the only mode Obelisk 65 doesn’t share. When we get into OTG, we’ve actually transformed the pod mod into a power bank which can recharge other electronic devices. Good to know that Geekvape continues to make experimental attempts at seeking out as many as possibilities in a vape.

The remaining temperature control, variable power curve and bypass functions must have been quite familiar to you, so we won’t go into detail here. Or you could also find how they work in our reviews on other Geekvape products. But switching among different modes is a real toughie, as the button is not responsive from time to time.

Design – 8.5

Mod

Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC is powered by a sturdy square-bodied mod. The LED display, buttons and an embossed logo of Geekvape all tidily sit on one flank of the mod. The mod has a total of 7 colors on offer, each of which adopts vivid patterns you’d get an eyeball on very easily. And maybe because the overall color tone is subtle, they don’t look overcomplicating. The mod also employs slip-resistant design, feeling rather comfortable in hand.

Pod

Obelisk 65 FC has simple magnet connection, making it effortless to press the pod in place or take it out. As the drip tip sits on a 510 adapter, we could also customize the device by placing other drip tips we like on. The sealing technique of Obelisk 65 FC’s pod is also impressive. It locks e-juice in up till the end, so we didn’t find any leakage in the tests.

Top airflow control system is accessible in Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC as well. The air volume allowed in is adjustable when we rotate a ring at the bottom of the pod. We’re into the control ring–its resistance is moderate, but the condensation liquid sprawling across the air inlet got us a little blindsided.

Battery

Speaking of battery, it might be the biggest difference between Obelisk 65 and FC. Obelisk 65 runs on a 2500mAh battery, while FC on two built-in 1100mAh batteries. Additionally, there’s an exclusive fast charging mode in FC that could boost the voltage to as high as 15V. Geekvape stresses under this mode, we can charge the device from flat to full battery in merely 18 minutes. But of course, the two have something in common. They both feature a Type-C charging port to recharge the battery, and a 5V input voltage in regular charging scenarios.

Ease of Use – 7

We love the colorful LED screen of Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC. Its brightness and refreshing rate are satisfactory, and so is the clear-cut navigation menu. We could learn about all necessary info such as the output wattage, voltage, resistance, battery level and puffs from it. All operations required are easy to follow. If you’ve used a couple of pod mods before, you’ll get the hang of this one without the manual like in a minute.

Overall Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC is an intuitive pod mod kit, but we still have something to beef about. The first one undoubtedly goes to the irresponsive button we mentioned before. We have to give the buttons a push in a particular direction to get them working. And the pod mod supports button activation only—no auto draw is a definite minus in terms of ease of use.

Its top fill system sounds great, which means we could refill without the steps like removing the pod and flipping it over. However, the actual refilling was completely another story. Obelisk 65 FC has no visible window outside to show the liquid level. In this case, we still have to take off the pod before refilling, so we can observe the liquid inside while squeezing it in to make sure it’s not inadequate or about to spill. What’s more, as the liquid tank ceiling lies above the filling port, we have no idea what’s the right time to stop filling. Even though when there’s still lots of room in the tank, liquid might still spill over since the port lies lower down. So be careful with it, or you’ll leave yourself in a messy puddle otherwise.

Price – 8

Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC MSRP: $63.99

To give you a better understanding about its price, we’ll offer the MSRP of its two counterparts as below. One is Geekvape Obelisk 65, and the other is Geekvape Obelisk 60 AIO Kit that runs on a 2200mAh battery and a maximum power of 60W.

Geekvape Obelisk 65 MSRP: $48.99

Geekvape Obelisk 60 AIO Kit MSRP: $46.90

There’s a kind of big price gap between FC and Obelisk 65 & 60. If we factor in their differences in parameters, it’s safe to conclude the spread is largely owing to the battery and charging updates in the FC. It’s actually up to you to decide whether that’s a good deal to pay about 15$ more to invest in its faster charging and ability to turn into a power bank. We’d say yes, if you’re someone running errands always and couldn’t access plugs anytime you need.

Overall Thoughts

Geekvape has put many focuses on evolving the battery and charging system of Obelisk 65 FC. Both the 18-minute fast charging and reverse charging are big innovative leaps from traditional vapes. Of course, apart from these additions, Geekvape Obelisk 65 FC also performs well at those core dimensions, like atomization, functions available and appearance. However, it’s a pity that some flaws in its design interferes with the overall ease of use. 65 FC might rise to be an unparalleled product if Geekvape could strike a better balance between good ideas and feasibility.