Zeus Arc GTS Hub vs DaVinci IQ2

Should you buy the GTS or IQ2?

If you’ve been stuck deciding on what portable dry herb vaporizer to buy, then you probably have come across these two powerhouses: The Zeus Arc GTS and the DaVinci IQ2.

At first glance, they might appear very similar, but there’s a whole lot that separates how they work, as well as what’s in their kits.

They both come with jam-packed key features though, so let me not waste any more time with this boring introduction. Let’s get into the nitty-gritty details of comparing the GTS vs the IQ2 in terms of pros and cons, and who would be interested in buying either vaporizer.

GTS & IQ2 Specs Comparison

Similar Key Features

As two of the best dosing capsule integrated vaporizers on the market, there is a whole lot to love about whichever device you decide to buy! They run a similar style of conduction oven and both use a recessed mouthpiece. They also both use Micro-USB charging and similar battery specs. So overall, they’re actually more similar than you might think! it’s the kits that really sets them apart. The Zeus comes with an Xtruder Grinder that works like a pepper shaker to fill the 15 included dosing capsules. With the IQ2, you’ll have one dosing capsule, but a raised mouthpiece that will work as a 10mm bong adapter for vape bubblers!

Conduction Heating Systems

The GTS opts for a 0.3g gold-lined chamber that will conduct heat extremely well. If you’re using a dosing capsule, you’ll get even more conduction occurring for a very even roast of your dry herb. The IQ2 has a similar style of oven, except it has a more convenient oven lid that’s easier to remove than the GTS mouthpiece for chamber access. Instead of metal, it uses a ceramic-lined 0.4g chamber that runs up to a zirconia air path. The only real downside is that the herb will tend to stick to the ceramic walls of the IQ2 chamber, so you’ll have to use the pick more so than with the Zeus ArcPod dosing capsules.

Portability Comparison

Despite each vaporizer being about the same size, the GTS gets a slight advantage as you’ll be able to do everything with the help of the metal carrying case in the hub. You’ll have your grinder, ABV storage, pod access, and your GTS all in one secure spot. There’s even a spot for you to store your vaped bud to use it later for edibles! For the IQ2, you’ll have to upgrade to a Stashlogix Storage Case to get anywhere close to the portability of the included GTS Hub. If a single use on the go is what you’re after, each vape will be able to slip into any pocket. As an accessory that will help you keep a few dosing capsules with you on the go, we suggest picking up the 420 Storage Keychain which will let you keep up to four filled dosing capsules.

Vapor Quality – Ceramic vs. Gold air path

In terms of vapor quality, it’s basically a crap shoot about whether you want the ceramic airpath of the IQ2 or the gold air path of the GTS. Besides that, they are extremely similar and you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference if you were to inhale from either one with your eyes closed. The main difference is how hot the flat zirconia mouthpiece of the IQ2 gets. If you’re at the end of a long session on a higher temperature, the damn thing is going to be nearly unusable as it will feel like you’re burning your lips off. For a boost to vapor quality, make sure to pick up a 10mm bubbler for the IQ2, and the Zeus Waterpipe Adapter for the GTS!

Zeus Arc GTS Vapor Shot

DaVinci IQ2 Vapor Shot

Battery Life Review

Each battery’s specs are nearly identical as is their heating time and lights display, so you’ll be getting about an hour and a half of use of use before needing a recharge. The DaVinci Vaporizer does get the slight edge as its battery is easily swappable and available for sale at most headshops. The only drawback if you don’t pick up a spare battery for your IQ2 is that the charge time is six hours. The Zeus Vaporizer has the same Micro-USB charging port, but will only take two hours for a full charge.

Which is easier to use?

For ease of use, this is about a tie. The GTS has a complete pod system that can easily be filled and loaded, and the IQ2 has an informative lights display system that you can fully view your precision temperature control. For a complete beginner, I would say the GTS is the better option as the Xtruder Grinder will basically fill your dosing capsules for you. For cannabis connoisseurs, they will prefer the IQ2 because there will be much more room for session customization with the larger & more precise temperature range, plus the extract discs which will be more viable for dabbing. The IQ2 includes a wax insert for the dosing capsule which will somewhat be effective at vaping concentrates. It definitely won’t be as effective as a true dab pen like the Utillian 5, but it’s enough to get the job done and more effective than the sandwich method you can use in the GTS chamber. I wouldn’t try to dab in the Zeus ArcPods, as if any resin blocks the air intake holes, you’ll have zero airflow coming up through the dab.

The IQ2 is easier to clean

The IQ2 is the easier vaporizer to clean as all that you’ll have to do is knock out your chamber, and then use an isopropyl alcohol Q-Tip on the air path and mouthpiece on occasion. With the GTS, the multiple parts of the mouthpiece can be a bit beginner unfriendly as you navigate how all of it works. Once you get the hang of it though, it’s a breeze. You might also have to do a bit more routine maintenance on the GTS, as any resin buildup will hurt the airflow.

Premium kits

These are great vaporizers for anyone buying their first device and wants an inclusive kit without any of the hassles that a steep learning curve would require. Unfortunately, there is an associated premium price tag, so people looking for an entry-level vape to see if they like them might be better off with something like the Pax Mini.

Pros

• Both have inclusive kits
• Both are easy to use
• Both are easy to clean
• Both have excellent flavor
• DaVinci has tons of accessories
• DaVinci airflow dial
• Zeus magnetic pick tool

Cons

• Both have restricted airflow
• Additional dosing capsules are expensive for both brands
• IQ2 has a five-hour charge time
• Zeus bong adapter is sold separately
• Zeus has a limited temperature range

Final thoughts

In conclusion, there is no real winner.

Just two different portable vaporizer kits aimed at people who either want a great starter package or one that is focused on beginners with the utility that fifteen dosing capsules can provide. While the GTS might be a little better for beginners out of the gate thanks to the Xtruder Grinder, connoisseurs might enjoy the IQ2 more out of the bat because you’ll be able to customize your sessions more.

For overall bang for your buck though, the GTS is the winner as the 15 included dosing capsules are a great feature that will make vaping on the go much easier than the IQ2’s oven chamber door and one included capsule.

• Let us know in the comments what you think is the Best Dry Herb Vaporizer!