Zone and ZYN are two separate and prominent nicotine pouch brands in the US. New nicotine users often confuse ZYN with Zone, believing they're the same brand. Both brands are worlds apart.
I used both Zone and ZYN while documenting my experience. In this ZYN vs Zone comparison, I'll highlight everything that separates these two brands, including flavor, strength, formats, target audience, and quality. Here's what I discovered:
- Zone is a new brand compared to ZYN
- ZYN has a fleshed-out market and audience
- ZYN and Zone use the same base ingredients
- Zone has 7 flavors compared to ZYN's 20+ flavors
- ZYN has a wider strength options
- Zone is 14% cheaper than ZYN
- ZYN produces less drip than Zone
- Zone offers a quicker nicotine hit
Table Of Contents
Quick Comparison of ZYN vs Zone Nicotine Pouches
Here's a quick comparison of Zone vs ZYN nicotine pouches:
| Aspect | ZYN Nicotine Pouches | Zone Nicotine Pouches |
| Parent Company | Swedish Match (PMI) | ITG Brands |
| Established In | 2022 | 2024 |
| Founding Country | Sweden | US |
| Contains Tobacco? | No | No |
| Range of Strengths | 3 to 17 mg per pouch | 6 to 11 mg per pouch |
| Flavor Options | 20 to 25 Flavors | 7 Flavors |
| Pouch Formats | Mini and Slim Format | Slim Format |
| Base Price Per Can | $4.99 Per Can | $4.29 Per Can |
| Best For | Variety Lovers | Classic Flavor Lovers |
ZYN nicotine pouches offer more flavors, strengths, and versatility. Zone is a relatively new brand, which is why it can't compete with ZYN's range of products. The only advantage Zone has over ZYN is its cheaper price per can.
ZYN vs Zone History
ZYN is a popular tobacco-free nicotine pouch brand in the US. Swedish Match established ZYN in 2022, following a shift in demand for tobacco-free nicotine alternatives. The brand has evolved numerous times since 2022, expanding its flavor and strength ranges to meet growing demand.
ITG Brands launched Zone in 2024 to cement its first step in the growing US nicotine pouch market. Zone has yet to cement its position in the market against big names like VELO, LOOP, Iceberg, and Killa. Nevertheless, the brand is experiencing growth, particularly in North Carolina.
Zone vs ZYN Ingredients
Zone and ZYN have the same base ingredients, which include nicotine powder, stabilizers, preservatives, and acidity regulators. The main difference between the two pouches is the flavorings and acetaldehyde.
Zone is open about their use of acetyldehyde, while ZYN does not mention it explicitly. For reference, acetyldehyde is a cancer-causing drug, found in trace amounts in most nicotine products. Please note that acetyldehyde is also found in apples, grapes, and citrus.
ZYN vs Zone Flavors
ZYN offers 20+ flavors, ranging from classic mint to unique coffee. There's a ZYN flavor for every nicotine user, irrespective of their eccentric taste. Furthermore, each new ZYN flavor is a combo of one or two elements, making them unique and irreplaceable.
Zone nicotine pouches offer 7 flavors, including wintergreen, peppermint, citrus, dragonfruit, mint, spearmint, and tobacco. Unlike ZYN, Zone flavors focus on one specific tone and element. Their singular direction makes Zone a great choice for classic flavor lovers.
Zone vs ZYN Nicotine Strengths
Zone nicotine pouch strengths range from 6 to 11 mg. While the pouches are great for experienced users, novices might have a hard time stomaching their kick. The strength range limits its audience to experienced users.
ZYN pouches have nicotine strengths ranging from 3 to 17mg, meaning everyone can use them. The ZYN 3 and 6mg range is perfect for new and slightly experienced users. People who have been using nicotine products for years can comfortably use the 9+ mg products.
Currently, the strongest ZYN product and my personal favorite is Slim Menthol Ice Strong, which contains 16.8mg of nicotine per pouch. In contrast, Zone's strongest product, No. 5 Cool Mint, contains only 11mg of nicotine per pouch.
ZYN vs Zone Formats
ZYN offers two different formats, mini and slim, while Zone only offers slim format pouches. Here's how the formats differ:
- Regular Pouches: These are standard-sized pouches with a strong kick and notable presence. These pouches make a noticeable bulge under your lips.
- Slim Pouches: These pouches are thin and long, which helps them adapt to the curvature of your gums more easily.
- Mini Pouches: These are small and compact pouches. They are easier to carry and use because of their small cans.
The single-format pouches of Zone limit its usability and versatility. ZYN minis are more discreet and easier to use because of their small size. Based on formats alone, ZYN is better than Zone.
Zone vs ZYN Prices
Zone nicotine pouches cost $4.29 per can, and each can contains 20 pouches. ZYNs cost $4.99 per can and contain the same 20 pouches. Zone pouches are 14% cheaper than ZYN nicotine pouches.
Since both pouches have the same 10%, 12%, 14%, and 16% discount tiers, their price difference remains consistent. Here's a quick overview of their prices:
| Price Points | ZYN Nicotine Pouches | Zone Nicotine Pouches |
| Base Price | $4.99 | $4.29 |
| Pouches Per Can | 20 | 20 |
| Price Per Pouch | $0.2495 | $0.2145 |
| 10% Discount | $4.49 | $3.86 |
| 12% Discount | $4.39 | $3.78 |
| 14% Discount | $4.29 | $3.69 |
| 16% Discount | $4.19 | $3.60 |
I am not surprised by the price difference, because ZYN is one of the most expensive nicotine pouch brands in the US. Zone is a relatively new brand attempting to carve out an audience through lower pricing.
User Experience of ZYN and Zone
ZYN offers a superior nicotine experience because of its packaging, aroma, and flavor. Each pouch has enough flavor and nicotine to keep you happy. The flavor doesn't stick to your gums or seep down your throat.
Zone has yet to master the experience, but it is still enjoyable. The pouch offers a quick nicotine release, which guarantees a great nicotine buzz. On the downside, Zone nicotine pouches do not last long and lose flavor quickly.
Another small downside is the extra drip, which causes nicotine hiccups. I experienced nicotine hiccups more easily with Zone because of the drip.
Versatility of Zone and ZYN
ZYN and Zone are both smokeless nicotine alternatives, making them very versatile. Both are tobacco, tar, spit, and smoke-free. However, ZYN nicotine pouches have an edge due to the format range. Its mini format pouches offer more value and versatility compared to Zone.
Furthermore, ZYN pouches produce less drip compared to Zone. The latter has more moisture-laden pouches for quicker nicotine release. Unfortunately, the extra moisture also produces more drip, making Zone less versatile.
Zone vs ZYN: Which One Should You Use?
ZYN and Zone offer different perks through a range of flavors and strengths. Using either nicotine pouch depends on your preference. However, there are some situations where ZYN might feel better than Zone.
| Scenario | ZYN Products | Zone Products |
| New Users | ZYN Mini Dry Citrus | None or US Variants |
| Experienced Users | ZYN Slim Menthol Ice | Zone No.25 Berry Blast |
| Home | ZYN Black Cherry | Zone No.5 Cool Mint |
| Office | ZYN Mini Dry Cool Mint | None |
| Parties | ZYN Bellini Mini Dry | Zone No.13 Sweet Mint |
| Park | ZYN Red Fruits | Zone No.3 Cool Mint |
Use ZYN mini dry pouches for any situation that requires discretion. These portions are compact and barely noticeable under the lip. Apart from this, you are free to choose and use nicotine pouches according to your preference.
FAQs on ZYN and Zone Nicotine Pouches
Are Zone nicotine pouches good for you?
No, Zone nicotine pouches are not good for anyone because they contain nicotine. Every nicotine pouch has side effects like addiction, indigestion, and heart disease. These pouches are only meant as smokeless alternatives to cigarettes and other forms of tobacco.
Are ZYN and Zone the same?
ZYN and ZYN are two different brands of nicotine pouches. Swedish Match owns ZYN nicotine pouches, while ITG Brands owns Zone. Both products have different flavors, strengths, and formats.
Is Zone better than ZYN?
ZYN offers more flavors, strengths, and formats, making it better than Zone. Furthermore, ZYN has had more time to establish its flavors and production processes. These factors make ZYN a better choice for most nicotine pouch users.
Do Zone nicotine pouches have formaldehyde?
Yes, Zone nicotine pouches have acetaldehyde, as mentioned on their warning label. Acetaldehyde is a carcinogen, often found in tobacco products. Although only included in trace amounts, nicotine pouches do carry a small risk of acetaldehyde contamination.
Bottom Line on Zone vs ZYN
ZYN and Zone are two brands that offer a range of different flavors and strengths. The selection of flavors and strengths is the main difference between these brands. ZYN has had more time to establish and expand its flavor range.
ZYN offers a better overall user experience because of its formats and quality. Their variety of flavors is unique and irreplaceable. The strength range also makes it a good fit for both new and experienced users.
You should choose Zone if you prefer classic and singular flavors. Choose ZYN if you're a new nicotine user and prefer flavor variety. Order ZYN and Zone pouches online with Snusdaddy to get the best products at the lowest prices.
