Uwell Caliburn G5 Review - Do Alpha Pods Make It Better

The Caliburn G5 is the latest flagship in the Caliburn pod line. It introduces updated GPP pods and a new Alpha pod designed to prioritise flavour and longevity. This article covers the design, features, pod options, filling routine, and real-world performance to help experienced MTL vapers decide whether the G5 suits their needs.

Key specifications

• Battery: 1,600 mAh capacity
• Maximum output: 35 W
• Charging: USB Type-C, 5V 2A
• Supported coil resistances with GPP pods: 0.4 Ω to 1.2 Ω
• Pod capacities: supplied pods described as 2 ml and larger XL variants
• Weight: 65 g
• Dimensions: 115.9 mm x 28.85 mm x 16.8 mm

Design and build

The device uses an aluminium body with plastic PCTG sections where required. A small, dedicated display is present rather than a full glass panel across the face. Side controls include a main fire button and a separate airflow adjuster on the opposite side. There are battery venting slots provided.

The handset feels a little thicker and more substantial than some slimmer pod systems, but this allows for the larger battery and a more robust build. The maker has removed the full-width glass screen used on some earlier devices, replacing it with a compact display that reduces fragility.

Interface and controls

Powering on and basic menu access use multi-click sequences. The interface supports theme selection, power modes, a tap sensor, brightness adjustment, puff counter and wattage control.

• Power on: five clicks
• Menu access: four clicks
• Wattage control: adjustable in the menu up to 35 W
• Auto-pod reading: the device auto-detects and sets a recommended wattage for installed pods

Two named firing modes are included and worth noting:

• Waves: a gradual, slower ramp-up similar to an eco mode
• Storm: an immediate boost to the set or maximum wattage for a quicker, more intense hit

There is a tap sensor feature which triggers after three taps and can be configured to perform certain actions or be disabled. In use this tap sensor can be sensitive and may trigger unintentionally when carried or handled, so it is advisable to disable it if accidental activation becomes an issue.

One practical limitation is that the device relies on the main fire button and the autofire functionality. There is no separate dedicated backup firing button; the tap feature cannot be used to physically fire the device. If a physical backup is important to you, bear this in mind.

Pods and filling

Two pod types are supplied: the standard GPP pod and the new Alpha pod. Both use snap-fit installation and a soft TPU over the mouthpiece, which gives a more comfortable feel compared with harder plastic tips.

Filling is done from the top. Pods use a spring-loaded valve system: remove the mouthpiece, push the bottle nozzle into the larger fill inlet while a small vent lets air escape, squeeze until the pod is full, then replace the mouthpiece and seat the pod.

The updated GPP pods have slightly smaller wicking holes compared with some earlier versions. The pods included in the kit are described as 2 ml and larger XL-capacity variants.

Alpha pod versus standard GPP pod

The Alpha pod is presented as a longer-lasting, higher-flavour option. Key differences observed:

• Wicking holes on the Alpha pod are reduced in size, which appears to concentrate flavour
• The Alpha mouthpiece is soft TPU and more comfortable on the lips
• Airflow options differ between pod types; some pod orientations provide a tighter draw, others a slightly freer draw

Testing on identical e-liquid and wattage settings showed the Alpha pod delivers a noticeably stronger and more intense flavour compared with the standard GPP pod. The Alpha pod felt more flavour-forward and produced a more immediate, intense hit, especially when used in the boost-style Storm mode.

Caliburn Alpha Pod Real-world performance and user notes

• Flavour: The Alpha pod provides superior flavour compared with the standard GPP pod in comparative testing. It is the recommended pod if flavour is your priority.
• Draw and airflow: Pods have differing airflow inserts. Ensure the pod is oriented so the airflow aligns with the device slot to get consistent performance.
• Auto-read and power: The device automatically reads the pod and selects a suggested wattage. Manual wattage control is available up to 35 W for fine tuning.
• Tap sensor sensitivity: Useful for quick mode or theme changes, but can trigger accidentally. The feature can be disabled if unwanted.
• Compatibility: The device will read older Caliburn generation pods, so existing users can continue using their earlier pod stock.
• Maintenance: Keep pod contacts and the pod well seated and clean to avoid connection or wicking issues.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Alpha pod significantly improves flavour and mouthfeel
• Comfortable soft TPU mouthpiece
• 1,600 mAh battery offers extended run time compared with smaller pod devices
• USB-C 2A charging for reasonable recharge times
• Backwards compatibility with older Caliburn pods

Cons

• Tap sensor can be over-sensitive and trigger unintentionally
• No secondary physical firing button as a backup
• Slightly thicker footprint than very slim pod devices

Who is this for?

The Caliburn G5 is best suited to MTL vapers who prioritise flavour and want a compact daily device with a larger internal battery. If you already hold older Caliburn pods, they remain compatible, easing the transition. Users seeking a minimal, ultra-slim pod may find the G5 slightly bulkier, but the trade-off is a larger battery and improved pod performance.

Conclusion

The Caliburn G5 refines the platform with a stronger focus on pod performance. The Alpha pod is the standout upgrade, delivering clearer, more intense flavour and a softer mouthpiece. The device offers useful features such as modes, themes and auto-pod reading, but the tap sensor can be over-sensitive and there is no backup physical firing button. For vapers after improved MTL flavour and reliable everyday performance, the Alpha pod and the G5 package are worth considering.