The evolution of the Augvape Merlin atomizer family

The earliest member of the Merlin family was the Merlin RTA, which was launched in June 2016. It features a non-centered four-hole dual-post design that can only accommodate dual coils in a single row. However, due to the age of this atomizer, it is no longer available on Everzon, although it can still be found on Taobao, but only as a single atomizer, which doesn’t motivate me to find a private shipping service to bring it back to Taiwan, so I’ll pass on it.

Following that is the Merlin Mini RTA, which was released in November 2016. You can still vaguely see the shadow of the Merlin RTA in it. The single coil is small, while the dual coil provides moderate airflow resistance, and its simple build and quick wicking make it a popular choice for many new players even today.

Aside from airflow resistance, another major attraction is the replaceable build deck, which allows for easy switching between dual and single coils with simple steps.

The juice chamber of the Merlin Mini is moderately sized, so it doesn’t overly concentrate the vapor, while the flavor density is just right. This balanced design performs well with various e-liquids.

I particularly enjoy using it in single coil mode. The wicking is smooth, the cotton installation is easy, and it can be quickly disassembled and reassembled. These features meet the basic requirements for daily use, especially when I first started using it; the airflow resistance particularly reminded me of the experience of smoking traditional cigarettes.

When switching to the dual coil deck, the airflow and resistance are not very large, so I usually use it with single-strand coils. The performance with clapton wire is too intense for me.

Some players have mentioned that the Merlin Mini tends to leak. After all, the smooth wicking also increases the risk of leaking. It only uses the grooves on the outer edge of the juice chamber as the role of the juice flow control, which can easily lead to the misconception that simply tightening it will close the juice flow. However, there is still a gap, and it cannot be completely sealed.

So, after filling the juice, when you tighten the top cap while compressing the air inside the tank, the e-liquid can rush into the juice chamber. Especially if the coil is too close to the airflow hole, the e-liquid can continuously leak out.

The solution is simple: first, fill the tank to about 80%. Second, after slightly tightening the top cap, turn the atomizer upside down and then tighten it completely. This way, it is less likely to leak. Alternatively, you can remove the top cap, juice chamber, and glass tank, and fill it while inverted through the juice flow holes.

Aside from the leaking issue during filling, its airflow resistance and vapor production are indeed impressive. To date, I own nearly 20 juice tank atomizers, but the only one with two setups is the Merlin Mini, which shows how much I enjoy using it.

With the recent Armor kit, it has also evolved into an RDA style. It is suitable for both single and dual coils, as well as for dripping and tanking, making it one of the most versatile atomizers available today. It also allows Augvape supporters to experience new flavors at minimal cost while extending the life and playability of older atomizers.

The juice chamber of the Armor kit features a standard bell shape, with a rounded design at the dome to prevent condensation and concentrate the vapor. The conical drip tip, which narrows towards the bottom, retains condensate at the lower edge to further prevent moisture from leaking out of the airflow holes below the coil.

The Armor series is focused on concentrated flavor, and compared to the Merlin Mini, the airflow path is shorter, presenting a more direct flavor experience.

However, due to the structure of the Merlin Mini itself, using the Armor kit requires leaving longer cotton tails to compensate for the smaller juice capacity.

The latest addition to the family is the Merlin RDTA, which was released in April 2017. It features a striking appearance with a diamond pattern, family crest, and three S-shaped logos on the lower part.

The Merlin RDTA adopts a dual-hole dual-post setup, with a width of about 13mm at the center of the dual posts and a 4mm width for the wire holes. Just from this design, it is clear that it belongs to the category of high-wattage, flavor-focused devices.

The juice flow hole is located in the center of the base, allowing for easy filling by placing the tip of the e-liquid bottle directly above it. The air inside the tank will escape through one of the pressure relief holes located below. After installing the top cap, the juice flow hole will be blocked by the center pin of the top cap, significantly reducing the possibility of leaking.

Although its glass tank is only secured by two O-rings and S-shaped logos at the top and bottom, care should be taken during disassembly or assembly to avoid breaking the glass tank.

Honestly, I initially bought it purely for its appearance, and at the time, I had not yet started using clapton wire. I had been using single-strand coils that could not fully utilize its potential until June when I installed clapton wire, and I was captivated by its charm.

Its juice chamber is slightly larger, so using dual clapton wire does not create a stuffy feeling. The ample airflow not only brings in sufficient air but also helps with heat dissipation. This makes it one of my go-to juice tank atomizers for long sessions at home during the evenings or weekends.

From the Merlin Mini, RDTA to the Armor kit, this family can basically meet most needs. Coupled with the consistent S-shaped logo of the Merlin family, it brings me a sense of satisfaction to see them lined up together.

With their distinct designs and purposes, players can assign different missions to them. If you seek versatile play and concentrated vapor, look for the Merlin Mini. If you desire powerful vapor and beautiful aesthetics, choose the Merlin RDTA. And if you want to experience both tanking and dripping flavors, just grab the Armor kit. Of course, having them all together would be the best choice, provided you can get your hands on the Merlin RTA.