Medium Shishas

Choosing a mid-size shisha

A mid-size shisha sits comfortably on a table, so you can smoke sitting down without reaching. Heights still vary from model to model: the Tsar H-One Evolution, for example, stands 45cm and the MS Magma Giga 57cm, so check the height on each listing.

Complete set or build your own?

Some shishas arrive ready to use. The MG Junior 1.0, for instance, comes with its base, a clay bowl, hose, mouth tip and tongs. Others leave the bowl to you, like the MS Magma Giga, or have a universal bowl connection for the bowl you already like, as on the Prince Coco. Starting from nothing? Some models, such as the C5 V2 and Tsar H-One Evolution, also come as starter kits with coals, a burner, foil and a 200g flavour.

Details worth comparing

• Connection: click systems lock stem and base together, as on the El-Badia Onyx. Threaded bases screw on, as on the MattPear Ready, and Wookah Minis use a quick lock.
• Purge: look at where and how it purges. The Embery Equal purges in three places, and the Tsar's 360° purge is adjustable.
• Diffuser: a diffuser gives a quieter, softer draw. Some are removable or reversible, like the C5 V2's, so you can switch between draw styles.
• Heat: if you use a heat management device such as the Kaloud Lotus, check the bowl or bowl connection suits it.

Want something taller or more compact? Compare full-size shishas and small shishas.

Questions

Do all mid-size shishas come with a bowl?

No. Some, such as the MG Junior 1.0, include a clay bowl, while others like the MS Magma Giga come without one. Check what is in the box on each shisha.

What is a click system?

It joins the stem to the base with a click, so putting the shisha together is quick and secure.

Which is simplest for a first shisha?

A starter kit, as everything for a first session comes together. Look for one built around a mid-size model, with coals, a burner, foil and a flavour included.