Vaping 101: How Many Types of Vapes Are There?

Navigating the diverse world of vaping can be overwhelming for beginners and experienced vapers alike. How many types of vapes are there? This guide will explore the intricate details of various types of vape devices, aiding you in making an informed choice for your vaping journey in this rapidly evolving landscape.

In short, there are four main types of vapes:

• Cigalike electronic cigarette for beginners with a cigarette-like feel,
• Pod Vapes offering convenience and versatility,
• Vape Pens with refillable tanks for more flavor options,
• Box Kits provide customizable settings for both beginners and advanced users. Each type of vape device caters to different preferences and styles, making it essential to understand the distinctions to choose the right vaping device for an optimal experience.

Cigalike Electronic Cigarettes: A Nod to Tradition

Also Known As: cig-a-like, e-cigarette, e-cig, first generation electronic cigarette

Cigalikes, reminiscent of traditional tobacco cigarettes, offer a seamless transition for smokers entering the vaping world. These discreet vapes, featuring pre-filled disposable cartridges and a rechargeable battery, provide an authentic 'cigarette' feel.

Components of Cigalike Electronic Cigarettes

• Rechargeable Battery: Powers the electronic cigarette.
• Disposable Cartridges: Use replaceable, disposable cartridges (cartomizers).
• Heating Chamber (Atomizer): The sensor triggers the atomizer to vaporize the liquid.
• LED Indicator: Mimics the glowing end of a traditional cigarette.
• Charging Indicator: LED flashes for low battery and lights up during charging.

How Do Cigalike Electronic Cigarettes Work?

• Inhalation Trigger: Inhaling activates the sensor and heats the liquid.
• Vapor Production: Liquid turns into vapor for inhalation.
• Simple Activation: No button-pressing; activation occurs through inhaling.

Pros of Cigalike Electronic Cigarettes

• Authentic 'cigarette' feel for a familiar experience.
• Affordable option, providing good value for money.
• Simple to use, ideal for beginners.
• Discreet design, resembling traditional cigarettes.

Cons of Cigalike Electronic Cigarettes

• Limited flavor options compared to other devices.
• Short battery life may require frequent recharging.
• Pre-filled disposable cartridges might generate more waste.
• May not deliver the same vapor volume as larger devices.

Pod Vape Kits: Where Convenience Meets Satisfaction

Also Known As: Pod System Vapes, Pod Kits, Pod Mods, Pod Vape Pens, Pod Vapes, Pod System

Pod vape kits, bridging the gap between cigalikes and vape pens, have gained popularity for their sleek design and high performance. With rechargeable batteries and replaceable pods, pod vapes offer convenience and satisfaction.

Components of Pod Vape Kits

• Rechargeable Battery: Powers the pod kit with a rechargeable battery.
• Pod: A replaceable component integrating the mouthpiece, coil, and e-liquid tank.
• Coil: Heats e-liquid to produce vapor.
• Mouthpiece: The inhalation point for users.
• Tank: Holds e-liquid and is part of the disposable pod.
• Pre-filled E-liquid: Often contains nicotine salt, with many pre-filled pods.
• Brand-Specific Design: Pod refills are specific to the pod vape's brand and model.
• Variety of Flavors: Pod systems offer a diverse range of flavors for different preferences.

How Do Pod Vape Kits Work?

• Insert Pod: Place a replaceable pod into the pod system.
• Inhale: Activate the pod vape by inhaling on the mouthpiece.
• Vapor Production: The pod's coil heats the e-liquid, creating vapor.
• Enjoy: Inhale the satisfying vapor until the pod vape is empty.
• Replace Pod: Swap with a new, brand-specific pod when needed.

Pros of Pod Vape Kits

• Very simple to use, ideal for beginners.
• Disposable pods offer convenience and less mess.
• Wide range of flavor options available.
• Longer-lasting battery compared to cigalike electronic cigarettes.

Cons of Pod Vape Kits

• Limited customization options compared to box mods.
• Pod replacements can contribute to environmental waste.
• Some pod devices may lack advanced features.
• Initial cost might be higher than cigalike electronic cigarettes.

Vape Pens: The All-in-One Flavor Experience

Also Known As: Ego Cigarettes, Ego Vape Pens, Tank System

Vape pens, pen-shaped devices with refillable tanks, cater to vapers seeking a variety of flavors. While a bit more involved than pod vapes, they offer flexibility and customization.

Components of Vape Pens

• Battery Section: Vape pens have a cylindrical battery that powers the device.
• Integrated Tank: The tank is part of the battery, containing a coil, e-liquid tank, and mouthpiece.
• Replaceable Coils: Vape pens have coils that need changing every 1-2 weeks.
• User-Fillable Tank: Users fill the tank with e-liquid, offering flavor and nicotine strength flexibility.
• Optional Settings: Some pens have buttons to adjust wattage, voltage, and airflow rings on the tank.
• Button Activation: Vape pens are activated by a button, not automatically on inhale.
• MTL & DTL Options: Pens cater to both Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping.
• Moderate Battery Life: Larger size allows for higher-capacity batteries, lasting longer between charges.

How Do Vape Pens Work?

• Button Activation: Vape pens are generally activated using a button, often referred to as a 'fire button.'
• Powering Up: Pressing the fire button sends power to the coil in the tank.
• Heating the Coil: The coil heats up, vaporizing the e-liquid in the tank.
• Inhaling Vapor: Users inhale on the mouthpiece, drawing in the vapor produced by the heated e-liquid.
• User-Fillable Tanks: Vape pens have tanks that users can fill with their preferred e-liquid flavors.
• Coil Replacement: Coils, responsible for heating the e-liquid, need replacement every 1-2 weeks.
• Adjustable Settings: Some pens offer adjustable power settings and airflow through the tank.
• User Flexibility: Users have complete flexibility over e-liquid flavors and nicotine strengths.

Pros of Vape Pens

• Offers flexibility with refillable tanks and various e-liquid flavors.
• Allows customization with replaceable coils and adjustable settings.
• Moderate battery life for extended use between charges.
• Suitable for both Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) and Direct-to-Lung (DTL) vaping styles.

Cons of Vape Pens

• Requires occasional coil replacements and tank refilling.
• May be bulkier than cigalikes and pod systems.
• A learning curve for users new to coil replacements.

Box Kits: Power and Customization in a Box

Also Known As: Box Vapes, Box Mods, Vape Mods, Pod Mods

Box kits, similar to vape pens but with a box-shaped battery, offer power and customization. With tanks protruding from the top, these vape mods cater to a broad range of vapers.

Components of Box Kits

• Rectangular Mod: Houses battery and components.
• Protruding Tank: Contains replaceable coils, protruding from the mod's top.
• Tank Interchangeability: Allows switching between different designs or brands.
• Customizable Settings: Offers adjustable voltage/wattage settings.
• LCD Screens: Sophisticated kits feature LCD screens for easy adjustments.
• Hybrid Devices: Cater to both MTL and DTL vaping.
• Complex Technology: Advanced kits may include temperature control.
• Increased Battery Capacity: Boast larger batteries.

How Do Box Kits Work?

• Box kits operate similarly to vape pens.
• Rectangular mods house the battery and technical components.
• Like vape pens, box kits include a tank with replaceable coils.
• Tanks, often protruding, are interchangeable for varied designs.
• Sophisticated features offer adjustable power, temperature control, and LCD screens.

Pros of Box Vape Kits

• Offers a customizable vaping experience with various settings.
• Larger battery capacities for extended usage.
• Interchangeable tanks for a variety of design and brand options.
• Suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Cons of Box Vape Kits

• May be bulkier and heavier than other vaping devices.
• Some models may have a steeper learning curve for beginners.
• Additional features may complicate usage for those seeking simplicity.
• Tanks protruding from the mod may impact the device's aesthetics.

Different Vaping Styles: Finding Your Flow

Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) Vaping: A Gentle Inhale

MTL vape devices, including cigalikes and some pod systems, mimic the inhalation style of traditional smoking. These starter kits provide a subtle amount of vapor, making the transition from cigarettes seamless.

Direct-to-Lung (DTL) Vaping: Inhaling Boldly

DTL kits, often called sub-ohm kits, cater to experienced vapers seeking a direct inhale into the lungs. With coil resistances below 1.0 ohm, these vape devices produce more vapor and are suited for those accustomed to a different inhalation style.

Restricted Direct-to-Lung (RDTL) Vaping: Balancing Boldness

RDTL vape devices offer a compromise between MTL and DTL vaping, providing thicker vapor with a more restricted draw. Ideal for beginners or those transitioning to DTL vaping, these devices offer a smoother experience.

FAQs:

Q1: What type of vape is most popular?

Pod vapes have surged in popularity, dominating the vaping scene. Their sleek design, simplicity, and user-friendly features make them a top choice for both beginners and experienced vapers. Offering a convenient and satisfying experience, pod vapes, or pod mods, with their compact size and disposable pods, have become the go-to option for those making the switch from traditional cigarettes or seeking a hassle-free vaping solution.

Q2: How do I choose a good vape?

Choose a good vape by considering factors like your experience level, preferred vaping style (MTL or DTL), battery life, and ease of use. Research reputable brands, read user reviews, and explore models with adjustable settings for a personalized vaping experience that suits your preferences and needs.

Q3: Which vape brand is best?

A reference on the Best Vape Brands 2023 from EVAPO UK:

• SKE Crystal Bar & Crystal Plus Vape
• Aspire
• SMOK
• Lost Mary
• VOOPOO
• Vaporesso
• Elf Bar
• Ohm Brew

Q4: How do I choose the best and latest starter kit for vaping?

Select the best and latest vaping starter kit by researching reputable brands, reading user reviews, and considering features like battery life, customization options, and ease of use. Look for kits that match your vaping style and offer a satisfying experience for an enjoyable introduction.

A reference on the Best Starter Vape In 2023 from Vape Club UK:

• Elf Bar Mate 500. Best Overall.
• Vaporsso Xros 3. Best Battery Life.
• Aspire Gotek X. Best Matchbox Style.
• Geekvape Wenax M1. Best Pen Style.
• Uwell Caliburn A3. Best Beginner Vape.
• SKE Crystal Plus. Best For Prefilled Pods.

Q5: How do I choose the best disposable vapes?

Select the finest disposable vapes by considering flavor options, nicotine strength, and battery life. Prioritize reputable brands with positive reviews for a satisfying experience. Check e-liquid capacity, build quality, and preferred draw style, whether MTL or DTL. Ensure safety by researching the ingredients. Find the perfect balance for your taste and convenience.

Embark on an exciting journey to find the perfect vape that caters to your preferences and experiences. Whether you're a beginner seeking simplicity or an experienced vaper desiring customization, diverse vaping has something for everyone. Explore the vaping revolution and discover the vaping device that transforms your smoking experience!