The sheer number of different looking vaping devices can be daunting. Why are there so many different types, and how can a new vaper choose which will be best for them?
Don’t worry, there are good examples of all types of vaping devices, and they have all been used by people to successfully quit smoking. The different types also mean that they meet different people’s needs.
In order of preference for most people, starting with the most popular, here are the differences between the most popular types.
Pen-Style Refillable (aka Vape Pens)
Pen style devices tend to be small and discreet, and fit easily into a pocket or small bag. They are often “All in One” (AIO) devices, which means that the tank is an integrated part of the device. They can also be found with a removable tank.
They produce less vapour, which can be great for people that might be self-conscious about vaping. They generally have changeable coils, and some have adjustable airflow. Adjustable airflow is useful for adjusting the vape to suit your preference, but is not a must-have for starting off.
Vape pens are easy-to-use, and many are suitable for beginners.
Mod and Tank
Another choice is a mod and tank combination. This has 2 separate parts that are screwed together – a mod that contains the battery and electronics, and a cylindrical tank that holds the e-liquid and the parts that turn e-liquid into vapour.
They come in a vast array of sizes and shapes, from small enough to fit in the palm of your hand to giant boxes that have the power to produce massive clouds.
Mods tend to have more battery capacity than pen-style e-cigarettes. Mod devices sometimes have advanced functionality, making them suitable for experienced users who like to customise their vape settings.
Some also come with replaceable batteries. This means you can keep on using the device when it runs out of battery life by swapping out the battery.
Refillable Pod
Since 2018 refillable pod e-cigarettes have been growing rapidly in popularity due to their ease of use. E-liquid is contained in a pod which clips into a pod device. Pods may come with fixed coil (ideal for ease of use) or replaceable coils (which is more cost effective and better for the environment).
Most pod systems are ideal for vapers looking for a compact, easy-to-use device. Most pod systems have relatively low power, but more recently ‘pod-mods’ combine some of the power of mod devices with the ease-of-use of pod devices.
Pre-filled Pod
Pre-filled pod e-cigarettes have been around for a long time. As the name suggests, the pod is filled with e-liquid, and cannot be refilled.
Pre-filled pods are one of the simplest ways to vape. Ensure the battery is charged, click in a pod and vape until the pod runs out. Then simply dispose of the empty pod, charge the battery, and click in a new one.
Pre-filled pods are a great choice for new vapers, as they are very easy-to-use. However, over the longer term refillable devices are both more economical to use and better for the environment.
Disposable E-cigarette or Pod
Disposable vape devices are used once and then thrown away. They are very easy to use: simply inhale and vape until the device stops working.
While a single disposable vape, they are in fact one of the most expensive ways to vape. They are also the most damaging to the environment, as you are throwing away a battery at the end of a single fill of e-liquid. That battery could have been recharged up to 300 times.
