Inside Vape Pod Systems: How Vape Pods Work

Within the constantly shifting universe of vaping culture, the introduction of vape pod systems has taken the vaping industry by storm. If you're new to this trend or a seasoned vaper looking for a deep dive into how vape pods work, you're in the right place. In this detailed guide, we’ll decode the secrets behind vape pods, exploring everything from the basics to the nuances of open and closed vape pod systems.

How Do Vape Pods Work?

Vape pods are sleek, portable devices designed to heat e-liquid into vapor for inhalation. Whether you use a closed pod system or an open pod system, the process involves converting liquid into vapor using heat and airflow. Here's a clearer breakdown of how these systems work:

1. Understanding the Basics

At the heart of a vape pod system lies two crucial components: the pod and the battery. When you take that first inhale, these elements seamlessly communicate, orchestrating the transformation of e-liquid into vapor. Let's break down their roles:

The Pod: Where Flavor Meets Vapor

The cartridge, interchangeably known as the pod, topper, or atomizer, sits atop the vaping device and houses the e-liquid and nicotine responsible for vapor creation. While some pods come with pre-filled cartridges offering convenience, others provide a refillable option for more diverse flavor exploration.

Within the cartridge, the atomizer, a small metallic pipe, plays a pivotal role by turning e-liquid into vapor upon inhalation. Some pod systems separate the cartridge and atomizer, but the synergy remains the same.

The Battery: Powering Your Vape Experience

In stark contrast to the intricate cartridge, the battery is a simpler entity. Slender and sleek, the battery distinguishes between vaping and standby modes, ensuring efficient power usage. Automatic batteries activate with a simple inhale, while manual batteries incorporate a user-friendly button for manual activation.

2. How It All Works (Step-by-Step)

1. Powering the Device

Turn on the vape pod system by clicking the power button or simply start inhaling if it's a draw-activated device.

2. E-Liquid Storage in the Pod

The pre-filled or refillable pod contains the e-liquid and must be securely attached to the battery after filling it with your chosen e-liquid.

3. Activating the Heating Element

Inhaling or pressing the button activates the battery, which powers the coil (a small wire inside the pod) to heat the e-liquid absorbed by the surrounding wick.

4. Heating the E-Liquid

The coil heats up rapidly, turning the e-liquid into vapor while maintaining controlled temperatures to avoid burning the liquid or wick.

5. Inhaling the Vapor

As the vapor forms, it travels through the pod's mouthpiece for inhalation, with MTL delivering cigarette-like puffs and DTL allowing deeper lung hits.

6. Cycle Repeats

Once the vapor is inhaled, the device cools down. You can repeat the process until the pod's e-liquid is used up or the battery needs recharging.

7. Maintenance

Refill the pod or replace it when it's empty. Replace the entire pod if the coil is built-in, or switch out the coil in replaceable models when flavor or vapor production declines.

Open System vs. Closed System Vape Pods

The realm of vape pods branches into two main categories: open pod systems and closed pod systems. Understanding their disparities is crucial in making an informed choice tailored to your vaping choice.

Open System Vape Pods: Unleash Your Flavor Palette

Open pod systems, also known as refillable pod systems, embrace manual refilling, providing a canvas for customization. With easily accessible tops and ample openings, these systems cater to those who relish the freedom to experiment with diverse e-liquid flavors. A smoother draw and the ability to produce larger vapor clouds distinguish open pod systems.

Closed System Vape Pods: Simplicity at Its Core

Closed-system vape pods, also known as prefilled pod systems or disposable pod systems, just like the newest SKE Crystal 4in1 revolving pod system, mimic the simplicity of a cartomizer, featuring pre-filled cartridges that eliminate the hassle of refilling. Once the e-liquid depletes, disposing of the cartridge is effortless, and replacing it with a new pod becomes a seamless on-the-go process.

Comparison Table:

How Long Does A Pod Last in A Vape?

The longevity of a vape pod kit hinges on the type of pod system. Prefilled pods are swapped out when the e-liquid depletes, usually lasting half a day to two days. Refillable pods, a cost-effective and eco-friendly choice, need replacement only when the coil wears out, lasting around a week. Pods with removable coils extend the lifespan, necessitating less frequent pod changes (every few months), while the coil lasts approximately a week, contingent on frequency.

Whether you're enticed by the allure of cutting-edge vaping devices or seeking a novel vape experience as a seasoned vaper, vape pod systems, open or closed, offer a unique, convenient, and user-friendly avenue into the world of vaping.

How to Use a Vape Pod for Beginners?

1. Choose Your Device:

Decide whether you want a closed pod system (pre-filled pods) for simplicity or an open pod system (refillable pods) for greater control over flavors and nicotine levels. Consider your experience level and how much effort for maintenance.

2. Charge the Device:  

Fully charge the battery before using your vape pod for the first time. Most pod vapes come with a USB or Type-C cable, and charging typically takes 1–2 hours, with an indicator light showing when it's ready.

3. Prepare the Pod:

For closed pods, simply attach the pre-filled pod to the battery by snapping or sliding it into place. For open pods, carefully fill the pod through the designated port, ensuring you don't overfill or spill e-liquid.  

4. Let It Prime:

After filling an open pod, leave it for 5–10 minutes to allow the wick inside the coil to soak up the e-liquid fully and avoid dry hits from insufficient saturation.

5. Power On the Device:

Press the power button five times rapidly to turn on the device if it's button-activated. For draw-activated devices, simply start inhaling to activate the heating mechanism and begin vaping.  

6. Adjust Airflow:

If your vape pod system has adjustable airflow, experiment with the settings to find your ideal draw. For tighter, cigarette-like puffs, reduce the airflow, and increase it for more vapor and a smoother inhale.

7. Start Vaping:  

Inhale gently through the mouthpiece and exhale comfortably. Avoid taking long, hard drags, as it might overwhelm the coil or cause overheating in button-activated devices.  

8. Monitor Usage:

Keep an eye on your e-liquid levels and vapor production. Refill the pod for open systems when it gets low, or replace it if you're using a closed system. Significant flavor or vapor loss signals the need to replace the coil or pod.

9. Recharge as Needed:

When the battery indicator signals low power (usually a blinking light or color change), recharge the pod vape device. Avoid overcharging to extend battery life and always use the recommended charging cable.  

10. Clean Regularly:

Clean the pod's exterior, connections, and mouthpiece regularly with a dry cloth to remove residue and maintain performance while preventing leaks or clogs.

Now armed with a comprehensive understanding of how vape pod systems work and insights into the intricacies of refillable and prefilled pod systems, you're poised to make an informed choice for your next vaping adventure. So, are vape pods the perfect fit for your vaping journey?

FAQs:

Q1: What is the difference between vape and vape pods?

• Design: Vapes typically have a tank and atomizer, while vape pods use a compact pod instead.
• Size: Vape pods are generally smaller and more portable than traditional vapes.
• Ease of Use: Vape pods are often more user-friendly, with simple operations like inhaling without complex settings.
• Maintenance: Vape pods may require less maintenance than traditional vapes, with options for pre-filled pods for minimal hassle.
• Battery Life: Traditional vapes may have longer battery life compared to the smaller batteries in vape pods.
• Customization: Traditional vapes may offer more customization options in terms of coils, settings, and e-liquids.
• Disposable vs. Refillable: Vape pods come in both disposable and refillable options, offering flexibility based on user preference.

Q2: Is pod stronger than vape?

The strength of a pod versus a traditional vape depends on factors like the nicotine content and user preferences.

Pods often deliver a stronger nicotine hit, especially with nicotine salts, providing a quick and satisfying vape experience.

Traditional vapes, with adjustable settings, allow users to control the strength of the throat hit by adjusting wattage and choosing lower nicotine concentrations. For example, Crystal Bar offers 2% and 0% nicotine strength.

Q3: What features do you look for in a vape pod device?

When selecting a vape pod device, prioritize factors such as the pod system type (open or closed), battery life, user-friendliness, portability, and e-liquid compatibility. Opt for a vaping device that suits your preferences, whether it's the convenience of pre-filled cartridges or the customization options offered by open pod systems.

Q4: How many hits are in one vape pod?

The number of hits in one vape pod depends on factors like pod size, user inhaling habits, and the type of pods. On average, a pod may provide anywhere from 100 to 400 puffs, but this can vary significantly. Vapers should monitor the e-liquid level and the taste to determine when a pod needs replacement.

Q5: What is your preferred pod system?

Personal preferences for vape pod systems can be quite different. Of course, we want to be helpful. A list of Best Pod System 2023 UK from VAPEKIT for your reference:

• SMOK RPM 5: The UK’s best pod vape kit
• Vaporesso Xros 3 Mini: The best pod kit for beginners
• Geekvape Wenax Q Pod Kit: The best pod kit for intermediate to advanced vapers
• VooPoo Argus Air Pod System: The best pod kit for style
• SKE Crystal Plus Pod Kit: Best pod kit for saving money on disposables (SKE Crystal Vapes Overview)