Spotted a Fake? The Ultimate Guide to Scoring Genuine RELX Devices & Pods
In the vaping world, RELX is a top brand—which is a pity, really, because the popularity of a reliable product like theirs attracts all sorts of counterfeiters. Buying a fake RELX device or pod is a waste of your hard-earned cash, not to mention putting your health at serious risk, because those dodgy ingredients haven’t been tested yet. And then there’s the damage to your device to consider.
For you RELX users out there, we know how important your safety and satisfaction are—so we’ve put together a guide that draws on real-world experience and the latest expert knowledge to help you confidently tell the fake RELX products from the real deal, ensuring a safe and enjoyable vaping journey.
🛡️ Using the Official Authentication Check: The First Line of Defense
There’s only one truly reliable way to check if a RELX product is authentic: RELX’s own verification system. Counterfeiters can try to knock off the packaging but replicating those security codes is a whole different ball game. So always start here.
1. The 14 Digit Code (For Devices & Pods)
Genuine RELX products usually come with a 14 digit auth code printed on the side of the packaging.
- Find the Code: Look at the underside of the product box (for both devices & pods). There’s a silver scratch-off coating there. Gently scratch it off to reveal the full code.
- Check it Out: Head over to RELX’s official website, and go to their verification page. Pop the 14 digit code in and make sure to enter it exactly as it appears.
- The Result: If it’s real, you’ll get a nice “Authentic!” message. But if you’re lucky enough to get a fake or reused code, the website will flag it up as potentially counterfeit in no time.
2. The QR Code (For Pods)
A lot of RELX pods come with a QR code that you can scan with your phone.
- Scan it: Pop the QR code in with your smartphone or a dedicated QR scanner app.
- Follow the Link: The QR code scan should take you straight to the official RELX verification page for that specific product.
- Check the Status: The page will give you the lowdown on whether the pod is authentic or not. Keep an eye out for a missing or blurry QR code or a link that takes you to some dodgy website.
🔍 Physical Inspection: Spotting the Telltale Signs of a Fake
The verification check is super important, but also take a closer look at the physical product and the packaging too—it can yield some pretty subtle red flags.
📦 Packaging & Branding
| Feature | Authentic RELX | Fake/Counterfeit |
| Print Quality | Crisp, high-resolution printing; vibrant colors. | Faded, blurry print; misaligned logos; potential spelling errors. |
| Holographic Seals | Clear, high-quality, and intact. | Often missing, poorly placed, or easily peeled off. |
| Materials | Sturdy, quality cardstock with clean folds. | Thin, cheap-feeling material; rough edges or poor glue work. |
🔋 Device Build Quality
You can tell a genuine RELX device by its premium feel and flawless finish. These things are built to last.
- Weight and Feel: The weight and balance of a genuine device feels just right—solid without being too heavy. Fake devices are often a different story, coming in much lighter—if they’re not just plain cheap-feeling.
- Finish and Fit: Take a close look at the finish—it should be smooth and even all over. Poorly made clones can have visible seams, parts that don’t quite fit together, and edges that are rough to the touch.
- Charging Port: The USB port should be in good nick—clean, properly aligned and charging reliably without any fuss.
💧 Pod Quality
The quality of the pods is another giveaway that can go wrong in a hurry. More often than not they’re a sign of a dodgy device, leading to a pretty rubbish vaping experience and possible damage to the device.
| Feature | Authentic RELX Pod | Fake/Counterfeit Pod |
| Build | Smooth edges, clean lines, and a snug fit into the device. | Rough or uneven edges, glue marks, loose fit in the device. |
| E-Liquid | Clear, consistent color and viscosity. | Inconsistent color, cloudy, or looks suspiciously thin. |
| Leakage | Minimal to no leakage, thanks to sealed design. | Prone to significant leaking, which can damage the device’s interior. |
💨 The Vaping Experience: Taste and Performance
If you’ve already opened and used the product, the performance can be the biggest giveaway.
- Flavor Profile: Authentic RELX pods taste smooth, consistent and rich, just like the description. Fake pods taste harsh, chemical or burnt with a noticeably muted or inconsistent flavor.
- Vapor Quality: Real pods produce a consistent and satisfying vapor volume. Counterfeits may produce weak vapor or inconsistent nicotine delivery.
- Puff Activation: Genuine devices have a highly responsive smooth draw. Fakes may require a much harder pull or have activation issues.
💸 Price is a Big Red Flag
While a good deal is tempting, be very cautious of prices that are too good to be true.
- Check the Standard Price: Know the general retail price range for RELX devices and pods in your area.
- Red Flag: If a seller is selling products at way lower prices (e.g., half the standard price), it’s a big sign you’re dealing with counterfeit or unauthorized products. It’s not worth the small saving.
📍 Where to Buy Safely
To be safe and ensure authenticity, always prioritize:
- Official RELX Online Store or Authorized Retailers: This is the safest way to buy.
- Reputable Local Vape Shops: Buy from established, well-known vendors who source directly from the brand.
- Avoid: Unverified online marketplaces, street vendors or sellers on social media that can’t provide proof of official authorization.
By combining the Official Authentication Check with a keen eye on Physical Quality, you become the ultimate expert in securing your safe and satisfying RELX experience!