CAPNOS and FÜM are both kinda like pressurized air inhalers that might help people quit vaping, but they work differently. CAPNOS gives you the feel of vaping with airflow resistance but no flavors or anything extra, while FÜM uses essential oil-infused cores to add a bit of flavor and aroma when you inhale.
So, is the throat-hit from a CAPNOS enough to replace your cigs, or are the calming effects of FÜM’s flavored air vapes the best thing to help you kick the nic? Let’s break them down before deciding which device is right for you.
In this article:
CAPNOS vs. FÜM: How They Work
CAPNOS mimics the physical sensation of vaping by using pressurized air and zero chemicals, while FÜM replaces chemicals with essential oils. Here’s how each one works:
CAPNOS
CAPNOS devices are designed to mimic the sensation of vaping without actually producing vapor. They work by using airflow and pressure to create a satisfying draw, aka "throat hit." The thinking goes that by somewhat mimicking what you feel when you smoke or vape, it'll be easier to curb your smoking or vaping habit.
There are a few CAPNOS models, but the company's "premium" offers are:
- CAPNOS BRE-Z: Offers a smoother pull for those who prefer a gentler inhale.
- CAPNOS Legura: Delivers a stronger throat-hit sensation with a quieter inhale.
Unlike vapes, CAPNOS devices don’t require batteries, heat or e-liquid. They produce zero smoke and are designed for habit replacement. To put it simply, they provide the physical sensation of vaping without chemicals or nicotine.
FÜM
FÜM takes a different approach. Instead of mimicking the feeling of vaping, FÜM focuses on flavor and aromatherapy. The device itself is a wooden inhaler that uses pre-infused cotton cores soaked in essential oils.
When you use a FÜM , you insert a flavor core into the inhaler and breathe in aromatic air. This can provide a cooling, warming or refreshing sensation depending on which oil you use. FÜM’s adjustable airflow system lets you control how much air the device draws in.
The biggest difference between the two? FÜM is all about flavor, while CAPNOS is all about the inhale. If you're an ex-smoker, that strong throat hit from CAPNOS might feel more familiar. But if you're an ex-vaper, you might miss the flavor too much and prefer FÜM instead. It really comes down to what part of the habit you’re trying to replace.
Flavor Options and Experience
CAPNOS lets you customize flavor intensity by adding essential oils manually, while FÜM offers pre-infused flavor cores for convenience.
CAPNOS
You can use a CAPNOS without flavor or customize the intensity of the flavor by soaking a wick in essential oils. Popular flavors include Orange, Mint and Lavender.
CAPNOS users appreciate the ability to control the strength of their flavor, but some reviews suggest that this flavor can sometimes be inconsistent, depending on how much oil is applied to the wick.
FÜM
FÜM users can choose from a variety of pre-infused flavor cores, which means no extra steps are required to use the device — just pop in a core and inhale. Some of the most popular options include Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Raspberry Lemon and White Cranberry. Although some users say this last option has little to no taste.
While FÜM’s flavors are convenient, not all users are satisfied with the intensity of them. Some reviews suggest that at times certain flavors can be too weak, while others enjoy the subtlety. As with all options like this, your satisfaction depends in large part on your personal preference.
User Experience and Effectiveness
CAPNOS
Many users find CAPNOS helpful for satisfying oral fixations and reducing their desire to smoke or vape. The lack of vapor makes it more discreet than traditional vapes, but some ex-vapers miss the visual and sensory feedback that comes with exhaling vapor.
Some users also report that it takes longer draws (about 10 seconds) to feel a satisfying throat hit, but once they get used to it, they say that the CAPNOS can be a reliable habit replacement tool.
FÜM
FÜM, to put it bluntly, has a more polarizing user experience. Some people love the flavors and find the device helpful for managing cravings. Other reviewers feel that the device is too large and heavy, making it less comfortable to hold and use.
Unlike CAPNOS, FÜM does not simulate a vape-like inhale, which some users say makes it less satisfying. But if you're not someone who's really looking for that massive throat hit, or you're just looking for a flavorful, more mindful breathing experience, FÜM might be a great choice.
Safety Considerations
CAPNOS
CAPNOS devices don't heat or vaporize anything, which means they don’t introduce new chemicals into your lungs. While this is generally considered an all-around plus, some users have reported feeling sick after use or experiencing throat discomfort.
FÜM
FÜM markets itself as a healthy alternative to smoking and vaping, but there are some concerns about inhaling essential oils. Some users have reported experiencing throat irritation or nausea, which raises questions about the device's long-term safety.
There haven't been any long-term studies that have looked into the safety or health benefits of vaporizing and inhaling concentrated essential oils, so keep this in mind when choosing between a FÜM and CAPNOS.
Bottom line: Both options are safer than smoking or vaping, but FÜM’s essential oils may cause irritation for some users.
Price and Value
CAPNOS
Users generally find CAPNOS a cost-effective option. Since there are no refillable parts (other than adding essential oils if desired), the upfront cost of the device itself is the main expense.
FÜM
Some users feel that FÜM is overpriced for what it delivers. While the device itself is reusable, the flavor cores need to be replaced regularly, which means ongoing costs.
If you’re looking for a one-time purchase, CAPNOS might be the better deal. If you enjoy changing up flavors and are okay with repeat purchases, FÜM could still be worth it.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to choosing between CAPNOS and FÜM, the best choice depends on what you’re looking for.
Pick CAPNOS if:
- You want a device that mimics the sensation of vaping, including a strong throat hit
- You don’t care as much about flavor and instead want a reliable habit replacement tool
- You prefer a one-time purchase with no ongoing costs
Pick FÜM if:
- You enjoy flavored inhalation more than throat hit, and want an aromatherapy experience
- You like the idea of a natural wood device with a unique design
- You don’t mind buying replacement flavor cores regularly
- You’re not sensitive to essential oils
Both devices offer something different, so, as always, the right choice depends on your personal preference. If you’re looking for an alternative to help quit vaping or smoking, CAPNOS is a solid option that edges out FÜM for most people. But, if you’re interested in essential oils and flavor, FÜM might be the better pick.
A Completely Different Alternative — HELO Energy Vapes
So, what if you've made it this far and you're not sold on either CAPNOS or FÜM? If neither one quite fits what you’re looking for, we recommend our HELO Energy vape as a unique healthy vape alternative.
Like CAPNOS and FÜM, HELO Energy is designed to satisfy oral fixation and help with habit replacement. But unlike CAPNOS and FÜM, HELO feels just like a traditional vape by replacing nicotine with caffeine. So not only do you get a jitter-free energy boost with each puff, but you also get the familiar sensation of inhaling vapor, making it much easier to forget about your nicotine vape.
Plus, HELO keeps things simple with just three plant-based ingredients — organic vegetable glycerin, synthetic and fruit-derived natural flavors, and pure caffeine. No nicotine, no diacetyl, no vitamin E acetate and no harsh propylene glycol — just a smooth, clean inhale.
So if you’re looking for something that still feels like vaping but with an added energy kick instead of nicotine, HELO might be the move.
Final Thoughts
Quitting smoking or vaping is tough, but finding the right alternative can make it easier. When it comes to CAPNOS vs FÜM, the key is to pick something that keeps your hands and mouth engaged so you can break free from nicotine addiction without feeling like something is missing.
And again, if neither of these feels quite right, there are other options out there — including some of the best caffeine vapes, like our HELO energy vape, which many ex-smokers find helpful.
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