Pulze device guide • PULZE 3.0 included

Pulze FAQ: PULZE 3.0, Compatible Sticks, Modes and Troubleshooting

Clear answers about PULZE 3.0 and PULZE 2.0, compatible iD and iSENZIA sticks, Intense and Mild modes, charging, cleaning, LED warnings and common device problems.

PULZE 3.0 The current generation, with upgraded airflow and heating

iD & iSENZIA The two official stick families for current Pulze devices

5-minute sessions Unlimited puffs within the session and 25+ uses per charge

Quick answer: what is Pulze?

Pulze is an all-in-one heated stick device from Imperial Brands. Its ceramic heating rod enters the center of a compatible stick and heats the material from the inside without lighting it. PULZE 3.0 is the current generation; PULZE 2.0 is its still-common predecessor.

Current Pulze manuals approve iD heated tobacco sticks and iSENZIA tobacco-free, tea-based nicotine sticks, plus any future Imperial Brands sticks explicitly marked as designed for Pulze. HEETS, TEREA, Fiit, neo, veo and ordinary cigarettes are not officially approved substitutes.

Both PULZE 3.0 and 2.0 offer Intense and Mild heating, a five-minute time-based session with no fixed puff limit, more than 25 estimated sessions per full charge and direct USB-C charging. Their button timing, vibration feedback, LEDs and cover design differ, so identify the model before following an operating guide.

PULZE 3.0 vs PULZE 2.0 specifications

PULZE 3.0 updates the body, airflow, heating area and controls while keeping the same core stick system, battery capacity and session format. Published battery and heat-up figures are estimates and can change with temperature, battery age and use.

Feature	PULZE 3.0	PULZE 2.0
Generation	Current generation, introduced in 2025	Previous generation, introduced in 2023
Heating design	Inside-out ceramic rod with a larger effective heating area and upgraded airflow	Inside-out ceramic heating rod
Heating modes	Intense and Mild	Intense and Mild
Heat-up time	Up to approximately 20 seconds	Up to approximately 20 seconds
Session	5 minutes, with no fixed puff-count limit	5 minutes, with no fixed puff-count limit
Sessions per full charge	25+	25+
Full charging time	Up to approximately 85 minutes	Up to approximately 85 minutes
Battery	1,850 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery	1,850 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery
Indicators	5 linear LEDs; each represents about 20% battery	4 LEDs around the power button
Top mechanism	Rolling cap and lift-up top cover; easier access for cleaning	Conventional integrated cap and lift-up top cover
Body	All-aluminum construction	Compact all-in-one construction
Dimensions	Approximately 126 × 23 × 16 mm	Approximately 124 × 23 × 16 mm
Weight	Approximately 57 g	Approximately 52 g
Official sticks	iD and iSENZIA, subject to local availability	iD and iSENZIA, subject to local availability

Do not copy the mode sequence from one generation to the other: PULZE 3.0 uses a double vibration for Intense and one vibration for Mild; PULZE 2.0 uses one vibration for Intense and two for Mild. The LED colors are also reversed between these models.

Pulze device basics

Start here for the essential differences between Pulze, cigarettes and vapes, and for identifying the current device generation.

Who makes Pulze?

Pulze is an Imperial Brands heated product platform. The device is paired with Imperial Brands' iD tobacco sticks and iSENZIA tea-based, tobacco-free nicotine sticks in markets where each range is available.

Is PULZE 3.0 the newest Pulze device?

Yes. PULZE 3.0 is the current device generation as of September 2026. Imperial Brands began rolling it out in 2025, and its 2026 financial update refers to continuing growth following that rollout. PULZE 2.0 remains relevant because many devices are still in use and the same main stick families are supported.

What happened to PULZE 1.1?

PULZE 1.1 is an older legacy generation. It uses the same general inside-out heating concept and was designed for iD sticks, but its battery figures, controls, indicators and support status should not be assumed to match PULZE 2.0 or 3.0. Use the manual for the exact model printed on the device or packaging.

How does a Pulze device work?

A cylindrical ceramic rod enters the center of the compatible stick. The device controls the heater so the stick releases a nicotine-containing aerosol without being lit. This is often described as inside-out heating because energy moves from the center of the stick outward.

Is Pulze a vape?

No. Pulze does not use a refillable e-liquid tank or vape pod. It heats a preformed single-use stick. iD contains tobacco, while iSENZIA uses a tea-based substrate instead of tobacco leaf. Both are different from conventional e-liquid products.

Does Pulze produce smoke or ash?

Pulze is designed to heat the intended stick without combustion, so it creates an aerosol rather than conventional cigarette smoke and does not produce cigarette ash. The aerosol can still contain nicotine and other chemicals, has an odor and may be covered by indoor-use restrictions.

Does Pulze need a separate charging case?

No. PULZE 2.0 and 3.0 are all-in-one devices. The battery, heater and controls are in one body, and the device charges directly through USB-C. There is no separate pocket charger to recharge a holder between sessions.

Pulze compatible sticks: iD, iSENZIA and other brands

Physical size alone does not prove compatibility. The official Pulze manuals authorize only sticks designed for this heating rod, temperature profile and airflow system.

Stick family	Official Pulze compatibility	What to know
iD	Yes	Heated tobacco sticks made for Pulze; range varies by country
iSENZIA	Yes, where available	Tea-based sticks without tobacco leaf; they contain nicotine
Other Imperial Brands sticks	Only if explicitly marked for Pulze	Follow the exact pack and local Pulze manual
HEETS	No official support	Do not treat a similar shape as manufacturer approval
TEREA / DELIA / LEVIA	No	SMARTCORE sticks for blade-free IQOS ILUMA induction devices
Fiit	No official support	Designed for lil devices, not the Pulze heater profile
neo / veo / virto / rivo	No	Designed for specific glo systems
EVO / Ploom sticks	No	Designed for Ploom chamber-heating devices
Ordinary cigarettes	No	Never insert or light a cigarette in Pulze

Which sticks are made for Pulze?

The two established families are iD heated tobacco sticks and iSENZIA zero-tobacco sticks. Current manuals also allow another tobacco or zero-tobacco stick only when it is designed specifically for Pulze and marketed for that use by an Imperial Brands Group company.

What is the difference between iD and iSENZIA?

iD contains processed tobacco and is a heated tobacco stick. iSENZIA replaces tobacco leaf with a blend based on oolong and green tea and is therefore described as tobacco-free or zero tobacco. iSENZIA still contains nicotine, and many variants use a crush capsule in the filter.

Does iSENZIA contain nicotine?

Yes. “Tobacco-free” describes the absence of tobacco leaf, not the absence of nicotine. Official Pulze information identifies iSENZIA as a nicotine-containing tea stick. It is not nicotine-free and is not risk-free.

Do iD and iSENZIA work in both PULZE 3.0 and 2.0?

Yes. Current official manuals for both generations list iD and iSENZIA as compatible. iSENZIA is not offered in every country, so absence from a local catalog may reflect regional availability rather than a hardware difference.

Can I use HEETS in Pulze?

HEETS are not officially approved in the current Pulze manuals. Even if a particular stick appears to fit, its internal construction, airflow and heating requirements were developed for a different device system. Using it can give poor results, leave residue or damage the ceramic rod, and may affect support or warranty coverage.

Can I use TEREA, DELIA or LEVIA in Pulze?

No. These SMARTCORE sticks are designed for IQOS ILUMA induction heating and contain a metal heating element. Pulze uses a physical ceramic rod that enters the stick. Forcing an ILUMA stick onto that rod can damage the device and is not an approved use.

Can I use Fiit sticks in Pulze?

Fiit is not listed as an approved Pulze consumable. It belongs to the lil stick ecosystem. Use iD, iSENZIA or another stick whose packaging explicitly states that it is designed for the exact Pulze model.

Can I use neo, veo, virto or rivo sticks in Pulze?

No. Those families are made for specific glo devices and generations. Their diameter, stick structure and required heater system differ. Check the complete heated stick compatibility guide before mixing any device and consumable family.

Can I use a normal cigarette in Pulze?

No. A cigarette is not engineered to fit or be heated by the Pulze rod. Never insert a cigarette, loose tobacco or any foreign object into the chamber, and never light an iD or iSENZIA stick with a match or lighter.

Can a Pulze stick be used twice?

No. iD and iSENZIA sticks are single-use products. After one session the heated material is dry and depleted, so reheating produces poor taste and can create excess residue. Remove the used stick after the device cools and dispose of it according to local rules.

Why do Pulze stick flavors differ between countries?

Tobacco, nicotine and characterizing-flavor rules differ by jurisdiction, and Imperial Brands does not launch every iD or iSENZIA variant in every market. Treat flavor lists as country-specific and time-sensitive. The local official catalog and pack name are more reliable than an imported product list.

How to use Pulze and choose a heating mode

The basic sequence is simple, but PULZE 3.0 and 2.0 use different vibration and LED signals for Intense and Mild mode.

How do I use PULZE 3.0?

Make sure the device is charged, unlocked and cool enough to use.
Open the rolling cap and gently insert an approved stick until its printed line is level with the top of the cap.
Press and hold the button. Release after the double vibration at about 2 seconds for Intense mode, or continue to the single vibration at about 4 seconds for Mild mode.
Wait while the five LEDs flash. A vibration and steady lights mean the session is ready.
Use the stick during the five-minute session. The LEDs go out progressively to show the remaining time.
After the device and stick cool, twist the stick, lift the top cover and pull the stick out.

How do I use PULZE 2.0?

Check that the device is charged and unlocked, then insert an approved stick to the line on its filter.
Hold the power button and release after the first vibration at about 2 seconds for Intense mode.
For Mild mode, keep holding and release after the double vibration at about 4 seconds.
Wait for the ready vibration and steady LEDs, then use the five-minute session.
When finished, lift the top cover, gently twist the stick and pull it out.

What is the difference between Intense and Mild mode?

Intense uses the higher heater setting for a stronger sensory profile. Mild uses a lower setting for a gentler profile. Official Pulze technical information commonly describes the setpoints as approximately 345°C for Intense or Standard and 315°C for Mild or Eco. These are device heater settings, not a claim that every part of the stick reaches that temperature.

How do I select Intense mode on PULZE 3.0?

Hold the power button and release it after the double vibration at about 2 seconds. The five LEDs flash white while heating and remain white when ready. This is the opposite vibration count and LED-color association from PULZE 2.0.

How do I select Mild mode on PULZE 3.0?

Continue holding the power button for about 4 seconds and release it after the single vibration. The LEDs flash teal during heating and remain teal when the device is ready.

How do the PULZE 2.0 mode signals differ?

On PULZE 2.0, Intense is selected after one vibration at about 2 seconds and is shown in teal. Mild is selected after two vibrations at about 4 seconds and is shown in white. Always match the instructions to the model number.

How long does a Pulze session last?

A normal session lasts five minutes on both PULZE 3.0 and 2.0. It is time-based and has no fixed puff-count limit. On 3.0, the device signals one minute remaining, then gives two vibrations and flashes the bottom LED at 30 seconds, before vibrating twice and switching off at the end.

How long does Pulze take to heat up?

Official comparison information lists a heat-up time of up to approximately 20 seconds for PULZE 3.0 and 2.0. Cold conditions, a low battery or battery aging can make preparation feel slower. Begin using the stick only after the ready vibration and steady LEDs.

Can I stop a Pulze session early?

Yes, but the button method differs by generation. The current PULZE 3.0 support page says to hold the button for about 0.5 seconds or lift the top cover. The PULZE 2.0 FAQ specifies a five-second hold or lifting its top cover. Once stopped, do not expect the same stick to provide a second full session.

How should I remove a used stick from PULZE 3.0?

Let the stick cool, gently twist it first, raise the top cover and then pull it straight out by the filter. Twisting before removal reduces the chance of residue being left around the heating rod. Do not bend the stick sideways or pull while the material is still very hot.

Can Pulze be used for consecutive sessions?

Yes. PULZE 3.0 and 2.0 are designed for 25 or more consecutive sessions from a full charge without a separate holder recharge. The housing can become warm during repeated use. If it becomes uncomfortably hot or shows a temperature warning, stop and let it return to a normal ambient temperature.

How do I lock or unlock PULZE 3.0?

Press the power button five times within about three seconds. The five LEDs turn amber and the device vibrates once when locked; they turn green and it vibrates once when unlocked. Locking helps prevent accidental activation in a pocket or bag.

How do I lock or unlock PULZE 2.0?

Press the power button five times within about two seconds. All four LEDs turn red when locked and green when unlocked, with one confirmation vibration in either case.

Pulze battery life and charging

Battery results are estimates. Very hot or cold conditions, repeated Intense sessions and normal cell aging can reduce the number of uses from a charge.

How many sessions does PULZE 3.0 provide per charge?

The official figure is more than 25 sessions from a full charge. PULZE 2.0 has the same published estimate. Actual performance can be lower with an aged battery, extreme ambient temperatures or unusually demanding use.

How long does Pulze take to charge?

A full charge takes up to approximately 85 minutes with the specified cable and a suitable power adapter. The PULZE 3.0 manual notes that a USB-A-to-USB-C cable can also work but may charge more slowly than the included USB-C-to-USB-C cable.

How do I check the battery on PULZE 3.0?

Press the power button while the device is idle and not charging. The five LEDs show the approximate level, with each light representing about 20% of the battery. During charging, each LED flashes and then becomes steady as its level is reached; all LEDs turn off when charging is complete.

Which cable should I use to charge Pulze?

Use the cable supplied for the exact device and a compliant wall adapter with the rating specified in its manual. PULZE 3.0 ships with USB-C to USB-C in the current manual. Do not use a damaged cable, loose connector or power source with an unknown output.

Can I use Pulze while it is charging?

Do not rely on pass-through use. Unplug the charging cable before starting a session. If the device is hot, allow it to cool before connecting power; the PULZE 3.0 manual includes a fault condition for connecting the cable while the device temperature is too high.

Why is my Pulze charging slowly?

Common causes include a low-output adapter, a USB-A cable, a damaged or dirty connector, extreme temperature or normal battery aging. Let the device reach room temperature, inspect the cable and port without inserting tools, and retry with the specified cable and adapter. Stop if the plug, cable or device becomes unusually hot.

How should I store Pulze for a long time?

Store it clean, dry, cool and away from direct sunlight, water and children. The PULZE 3.0 manual recommends roughly 50% battery for extended storage rather than leaving the cell fully charged. Recharge before use after a long period of inactivity.

Pulze cleaning and troubleshooting

Most weak-draw, poor-taste and insertion problems begin with residue around the heating rod. Electrical faults, a damaged rod, liquid exposure or abnormal heat require service rather than a home repair.

How often should I clean Pulze?

Remove visible residue with the built-in Quick Clean tool as needed. Pulze recommends a deeper clean with the supplied brush after every 20 sessions, roughly one pack of sticks. Regular cleaning helps preserve airflow, insertion depth and taste consistency.

How do I quick-clean PULZE 3.0?

Switch the device off and let the heating rod cool completely.
Open the rolling cap and slide the top cover upward.
Remove the Quick Clean tool from the base.
Gently clear loose residue from around the rod and inside the cavity without pushing or levering against the rod.
Clean the tool, return it to the base, lower the cover and close the cap.

How do I deep-clean Pulze?

Once the device is fully cool, open the cap and raise the top cover. Use only the supplied deep-clean brush, moving gently around the ceramic rod, then rotate the brush inside the surrounding cavity to collect residue. Do not bend, scrape or press the rod. Close the top when finished.

Can I clean Pulze with alcohol, water or a cotton swab?

The official manuals say not to use solvents or other liquids and to use the designated Pulze tools. Avoid pouring alcohol or water into the chamber, and do not use a cotton swab if fibers could catch on the rod. Clean only when the device is cool.

Can the PULZE 3.0 top cap be removed?

No. The PULZE 3.0 manual explicitly warns that the top cap is not removable and that pulling it off will damage the device. Open the rolling cap and slide the top cover only as shown in the guide.

Why will a stick not go into my Pulze?

Do not force it. Check that the cap is fully open, that the stick is the correct iD or iSENZIA type and that no tobacco or tea residue is blocking the cavity. Let the device cool and use the Quick Clean tool. A bent heating rod or persistent obstruction needs official service.

Why does Pulze taste weak or have poor airflow?

Check for an old, damp or previously used stick, incomplete insertion, Mild mode, low ambient temperature or residue around the heater. Try a fresh compatible stick and perform a cool-device deep clean. If every stick remains weak after cleaning and charging, the heater or airflow path may need inspection.

What should I do if a stick breaks inside Pulze?

Stop the session and let the device cool completely. Hold it opening-down and use only the designated cleaning tool to remove loose material gently. Never use a knife, needle, screw or metal pick near the ceramic rod. If the fragment does not release without force, arrange service.

What do red Pulze lights and three vibrations mean?

On PULZE 3.0, flashing red LEDs combined with three vibrations indicate a fault or blocked operating condition. The number and position of illuminated LEDs identify conditions such as an open top cover, temperature outside the operating range, an electrical fault or a heating-rod fault. Close the cover and let the device reach room temperature; if the warning persists, stop using it and consult the model-specific manual or Pulze Care.

Why is Intense mode unavailable on my Pulze?

The manual states that Pulze can disable Intense mode above 40°C. Move the device away from direct sunlight or a hot vehicle and let it cool naturally. Use Mild mode only if the device otherwise operates normally and the surrounding environment is appropriate.

What temperature range is best for Pulze?

Pulze guidance gives an optimal surrounding temperature of approximately 10°C to 40°C. Below 0°C, heating can take longer and battery endurance can decrease. Above 40°C, Intense mode may be disabled. Never accelerate warming or cooling with an oven, heater, freezer or direct flame.

Why will my Pulze not start?

Check whether it is locked, discharged, charging, too hot or too cold, or whether the top cover is raised. Charge it with the specified cable, return it to room temperature and unlock it with five quick presses. If it shows red fault LEDs, the heating rod is damaged or it still does not respond, do not dismantle it.

Can I reset Pulze?

The current 2.0 and 3.0 user guides do not publish a general user reset sequence comparable to the lock command. Do not experiment with undocumented button combinations. Charge the device, confirm it is unlocked and at room temperature, then use the official troubleshooting chart or service channel if the fault remains.

What should I do if the Pulze heating rod is bent or broken?

Stop using the device. Do not straighten, glue or replace the ceramic rod yourself. A damaged rod can heat incorrectly or break further, and opening the body creates additional battery and electrical risks. Contact the official service channel for the country where the device was obtained.

Is Pulze waterproof?

No waterproof rating should be assumed. If the device or cable is wet, stop using and charging it. If it was immersed while connected to power, disconnect the power source safely before touching or removing the device. Do not dry it with heat and do not resume use if there is any sign of liquid inside.

What if Pulze becomes unusually hot, sparks or smells burnt?

Stop the session or charging immediately, place the device away from flammable materials and do not use it again. Unusual heat when idle or charging, sparks, battery leakage, swelling or an electrical burning smell are not normal troubleshooting cases and require official inspection.

Pulze comparisons, health, warranty and travel

Device choice is mainly about the heating system, compatible sticks, maintenance and local support—not whether two stick formats look similar.

Is PULZE 3.0 worth upgrading to from PULZE 2.0?

PULZE 3.0 is the meaningful upgrade if you want improved airflow and heating coverage, an aluminum body, five clearer battery LEDs, a rolling cap and easier chamber access. Battery capacity, 25+ sessions, charging time, two modes, five-minute sessions and stick compatibility are broadly unchanged. A safe, reliable 2.0 can therefore remain practical if the hardware refinements do not matter to you.

Pulze vs IQOS ILUMA: what is the key difference?

Pulze uses a ceramic rod that enters iD or iSENZIA and requires regular cleaning. IQOS ILUMA uses induction to heat a metal element sealed inside TEREA, DELIA or LEVIA, so it has no exposed blade and its stick families are completely different. Neither system's consumables should be used in the other.

Pulze vs glo: what is the key difference?

Pulze heats from inside the stick with a ceramic rod and uses iD or iSENZIA. glo Hyper devices generally heat around the outside of compatible neo or veo sticks, while glo Hilo uses a different induction-based system with virto or rivo. The consumables and cleaning procedures are not interchangeable.

Pulze vs Ploom: what is the key difference?

Pulze pierces an approved stick with an internal ceramic rod and offers two intensity modes. Current Ploom AURA devices heat compatible EVO and regional Ploom sticks in a chamber and provide multiple app-selectable profiles. Device shape, stick construction, accessories and care requirements differ.

Is Pulze risk-free?

No. iD is a tobacco product, and both iD and iSENZIA deliver addictive nicotine. Heating without burning does not make the aerosol harmless. The World Health Organization states that all forms of tobacco use are harmful and that heated tobacco products expose users to nicotine and toxic emissions.

Can Pulze help me quit smoking?

Pulze is not a licensed stop-smoking medicine. Someone who wants to stop tobacco or nicotine use should seek evidence-based cessation support from a healthcare professional or official quit service. Avoid dual use if the goal is to quit combustible cigarettes completely.

Who should not use Pulze?

Pulze products are intended only for adults who already use tobacco or nicotine. They are not for minors, non-users, pregnant or breastfeeding people. Anyone with a medical condition or concerns about nicotine should speak with a healthcare professional.

What warranty does a Pulze device have?

Current European 2.0 and 3.0 manuals describe a 12-month manufacturer's warranty from the purchase date for faults occurring in normal use, subject to exclusions and proof of purchase. Claims are generally handled in the country of purchase. Local consumer-law rights can provide additional protection, so use the terms supplied with the exact device.

Can I take Pulze on an airplane?

Battery-powered smoking devices generally belong in carry-on baggage, protected against accidental activation, and may not be used or charged on board. Lock the device, remove the stick and keep the chamber closed. Airline, airport and country rules can be stricter, so confirm them before travel.

See the full heated tobacco travel and regulations FAQ for baggage, customs and destination checks.

Are Pulze, iD and iSENZIA legal everywhere?

No. Heated tobacco devices, tobacco sticks, nicotine-containing herbal sticks and flavored products can each be regulated differently. Availability on a website in one country does not prove that possession, import or use is legal elsewhere. Check official customs, health and aviation rules for every destination and transit country.

Sources and official references

Device instructions, specifications and compatibility were checked against Imperial Brands and official regional Pulze materials. The manual supplied with the exact country-specific device takes priority if a signal, accessory or support term differs.

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026