When you walk into a vape shop or browse an online site you may be overwhelmed by the terms used, such as 'pods', 'mods', 'disposables,' 'MTL,' and 'DTL.' I am no exception. I remember when I got my first vape — I had no idea how it worked and ended up pointing at something that appeared easy to operate and hoping for the best.
Over the years, I've gone through all kinds of vaping devices, from the clunky devices available in the beginning to the sleek devices that are on the market today. I've found that there is no 'best' vape device. That will depend on you and your needs, preferences, and lifestyle.
In the following article, I'll explain the different types of vaping devices and provide information not only about the specifications, but about what it is like to actually use each type of device.
1. Disposable Vaping Devices - The Convenient Option.
Disposable vaping devices are single-use devices that contain a battery and a predetermined amount of e-liquid. Once you have used the entire e-liquid supply, or the battery has run out of power, you need to discard the vaping device.
I describe these as the "gateway" vaping devices for the majority of users. I typically provide a disposable vaping device to friends who are interested in vaping and want to learn what all the excitement is about. Using a disposable vaping device could not be easier. After removing the packaging and stickers, you simply start inhaling. Disposable vaping devices come with no buttons to press, no tanks to fill, and no batteries to charge. The flavor from disposable vaping devices tends to be strong and sweet. Additionally, the draw is similar to that of a traditional cigarette.
These devices are extremely convenient. I recommend disposable vaping devices for festivals, parties, or as a back-up vaping device. The flavor delivery in disposable vaping devices like Elf Bar and Lost Mary are incredibly strong and consistent, providing a saturated flavor from the very first puff to the last puff.
2. Pod Systems - The Ideal Combination of Portability and Performance.
Pod systems include a compact, rechargeable battery and a detachable pod. Each pod contains a coil and e-liquid.
This is where vaping becomes intelligent. Pod systems are likely the most popular type of vaping device among vapers. After switching to a pod system (my first was the original Uwell Caliburn), I never returned to disposable vaping devices. Pod systems are as compact as disposables but allow for customization. You can select the e-liquids you desire, and replacing a burnt-out coil is merely a matter of swapping in a new pod for $3-$5 versus purchasing a completely new vaping device.
There are two main subtypes:
- Open Pod Systems: You fill the pod yourself with your preferred e-liquid. I personally use an open pod system every day. I enjoy the flexibility to transition from a fruit-flavored e-liquid during the day to a dessert-flavored e-liquid in the evening.
- Closed Pod Systems: Similar to a disposable device, but reusable. Closed pod systems require brand-specific, pre-filled pods (e.g., JUUL, VUSE). While not as flexible, closed pod systems are generally less expensive than disposable vaping devices.
Pod systems are the perfect combination of convenience, affordability, and performance. Pod systems offer both a tight MTL (Mouth-To-Lung) draw and some even a loose RDL (Restricted Direct Lung) draw. Modern pod systems possess a sufficient battery life and generate an excellent flavor.
3. Vape Pens: The Classic Workhorse
Vape pens are cylindrical, pen-shaped vaping devices that consisted of a single battery tube and a refillable tank that screwed onto the top.
Vape pens are the original "real" vaping kits. Vape pens represent a step up in terms of power and vapor generation compared to pod systems. Vape pens are relatively simple to use; they typically feature a single button to activate the device. Vape pens possess a larger battery capacity and a larger tank size, which results in fewer instances of needing to recharge and refill. The draw from a vape pen is frequently either a tighter MTL hit or a restricted DTL hit.
4. Box Mods & Sub-Ohm Tanks - The High-Performance Cloud Chasers.
Box mods are the powerhouse of the vaping community. They comprise a larger, more powerful battery unit (with removable 18650 or 21700 batteries) and an array of features (wattage, temperature control, etc.) to customize the vaping experience. Sub-Ohm Tanks are larger tanks designed to work with lower resistance ("sub-ohm") coils and produce tremendous amounts of vapor and intense flavors.
Operating a box mod is a hobbyist experience. I have a Geekvape Aegis Legend that I utilize for vaping at home. The process of using a box mod is a sensory experience: checking the battery level, determining the optimal "sweet spot" for the coil based on the wattage, filling the large tank, and taking large, deep, direct-to-lung hits. The vapor generated by a box mod is substantial, and the flavor produced can be incredibly complex. This is definitely not a stealth vaping experience - this is a session-based vaping experience.
Unsurpassed power, exceptional flavor, extended battery life, and absolute control of the vaping experience. If you desire to experience the textures of a creamy custard or the crunchiness of a fresh apple, a box mod/sub-ohm tank configuration is the way to go.
5. Pod Mods - The Hybrid Powerhouse.
Pod mods are a relatively recent category that fills the gap between pod systems and box mods. Pod mods have the same form factor and ease-of-use as pod systems, however, they offer the same power and performance as a compact box mod.
Devices such as the VooPoo Drag series or the Geekvape Aegis Boost are prime examples. I consider pod mods to be "box mods with training wheels." Many pod mods use refillable pods with replaceable coils (a combination of the best of both worlds), have adjustable wattage, have a large battery, and can support both MTL and DTL vaping based on the coil being utilized. Pod mods are durable and created to provide performance without excessive bulk.
This may be the most versatile category. You obtain nearly box-mod performance in a far more portable and user-friendly format. Pod mods are ideal for the vaper who outgrows a basic pod system, yet is apprehensive about investing in a full box mod setup.
6. Concentrate Vaporizers: The Potent Specialists
Devices made to vaporize Cannabis Concentrates such as Wax, Shatter, Live Resin, Rosin, and Oils. These devices have varied temperature settings and heating techniques compared to e-liquid vaporizers which are designed for the thicker, more potent concentrate products.
I was blown away by my first concentrate vape experience. Similar to how I enjoy an easy drinking beer when I'm vaping e-liquids; vaping concentrates is similar to taking a shot of a high-quality whiskey. The flavor and potency of a concentrate vape hit is unlike anything I've ever experienced before. When vaping concentrates, instead of filling a tank with liquid, a small device (dabbing tool) is used to place a rice grain size portion of a sticky, and sometimes amber colored substance onto a coil or into a chamber. The density, richness, and flavor of a hit from a concentrate vape is incredible and provides an opportunity to taste the entire spectrum of the cannabis plants' terpenes, in ways that smoking does not allow for. Additionally, the effects are significantly stronger and quicker acting than those associated with dry herbs.
So, Which One is Right for YOU?
The decision as to which type of vaping device is the best for YOU depends on several factors including your level of experience, your desired level of performance, your willingness to invest, and your vaping style.