Unregulated Box Mod – What It Is & How It Works in Vaping
Definition
An Unregulated Mod“>Box Mod is a rectangular, high-capacity vaping device that delivers battery voltage directly to the atomiser without electronic regulation or safety circuitry. Unlike regulated mods, it has no adjustable wattage, temperature control, or protection from over-discharge, short-circuit, or Resistance“>low resistance. Its purpose is to provide pure, raw power for experienced vapers who want maximum cloud production, rapid coil ramp-up, and a mechanical-style experience in a more ergonomic “box” form factor. Beginners should understand that output depends solely on remaining battery charge and coil resistance.
Technical Details
How It Works
An unregulated box mod simply connects the positive and negative terminals of its battery (or batteries) to the 510 connector via a mechanical switch or MOSFET. There is no buck-boost circuit; voltage starts at ~4.2 V on a freshly charged cell and drops to around 3.3 V before the batteries must be removed for recharging or USB-C/ USB Charging. Many units use dual 18650 or 21700 cells wired in parallel or series, doubling capacity or voltage respectively.
Typical Specifications
- Dimensions: 80-100 mm × 45-55 mm × 25-35 mm
- Battery support: 18650/20700/21700 (parallel/series)
- Max continuous current: 30-60 A (dependent on MOSFET rating)
- Resistance range: 0.1 Ω and above (user-determined)
- Materials: anodised aluminium, delrin, stabilised wood
Common Variations
- Mechanical box – no MOSFET, direct switch contact
- Semi-mech box – MOSFET protection only (no regulation)
- Squonk box – integrated 7-10 ml e-liquid bottle for bottom-fed atomisers
Usage & Tips
Always lock or remove batteries before pocketing an unregulated box mod to prevent accidental firing. Use an Ohm’s law calculator to ensure your coil draw does not exceed the continuous discharge rating of the cells. Check battery wraps for nicks and keep contacts clean to avoid arcing. If the device becomes hot during use, stop immediately and let it cool—this is a sign the coil resistance is too low or the batteries are stressed. Never attempt USB-C charging inside a true unregulated mod unless the manufacturer explicitly states it has onboard balanced charging; instead, use a dedicated external charger.
History & Context
Unregulated box mods evolved in the mid-2010s when cloud-chasing enthusiasts wanted the raw power of tube mechs in a dual-battery form that could last all day. Early Australian “home-made” wooden boxes paved the way for commercial brands such as Broadside and Purge, bridging the gap between ultra-portable pod systems and high-wattage regulated devices.