REVIEWS
BlackCell Proton 18650
The world of vape branded cells is a strange one. Many have limited information available
and no way to verify authenticity of the product. Blackcell is a bit different in this regard.
They provide specifications for their products, printed clearly on the wrap, and also have
a full QR code authenticity system, so you can determine whether or not your product
is legitimate.
The Proton cell is rated at 3018mAh capacity, with a 20.3A continuous discharge rating
and 40.2A maximum load. This capacity rating goes toe-to-toe with some of the best
18650 cells currently available, such as the LG HG2 and Samsung 30Q. During my
testing of these cells, it’s been quite clear that the Proton is able to last for at least the
same run time as these cells, which is great to see and adds another option to the list
of cells which have a practical ratio of run time to discharge limit.
At the 20A mark, using a variety of regulated devices, the Proton did not heat up beyond
normal levels, and Mooch’s thorough testing of the cells show that this CDR is accurate.
My only issue then, is with the enigmatic 40.2A “MAX” rating of the cell. This is meant
to be taken as a pulse rating, which means when used in very short bursts the cell can
(in theory) handle a load of 40.2A.
The problem with pulse ratings is that there are far too many variables which are not
fully stated. How long is a ‘pulse’? What resistance should the coil be? Does the cell
need to be fully charged for this usage?
Fortunately, Blackcell do clearly state that this rating should be disregarded when using
mechanical devices, and the vast majority of regulated mods will protect against overheating
cells, but I would much prefer this increased risk of failure be entirely avoided, by only
promoting more measurable specifications such as the CDR and capacity, which are
impressive as is.
FamoVape Magma Box + Fat Baby Mesh Pro
Some of the testing of the Blackcell Protons was done using the FamoVape Magma
Box and Fat Baby Mesh Pro.
With beautiful resin panels and a zinc alloy chassis, this device feels very solid. It has a classic
three button design, allowing for simple navigation of the fully featured proprietary chipset,
which offers wattage mode, temperature control and a direct output bypass setting.
This is one of the most aggressive chipsets I’ve ever used. There is absolutely no delay
when pressing the fire button, and the power delivery is very impressive, with no ramp-
up time whatsoever. This makes the Magma Box an excellent choice for high wattage
vapers. Charging is also extremely impressive. The Magma Box successfully charges
installed cells in a balanced fashion and does it quickly, too. This is actually quite a rare
feature within the mid-price bracket and is certainly welcome.
On to the Fat Baby Mesh Pro. The Baby Mesh Pro is fairly small as mesh sub tanks
go, but this does not necessitate a sacrifice in performance.
The tank features a simple sliding top-fill and fairly standard airflow control ring at the
bottom of the tank. The coils themselves are really quite impressive. They consist of a
single strip of fine mesh. Despite the small size, however, vapour and flavour production
is fantastic.
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