If you’re new to vaping you’ve probably heard all sorts of terms used to refer to the power source of your vaping device: “Battery,” “Mod,” “Pod system” — they all sound the same to begin with and can become quite confusing. Therefore, let’s break this down simply. Essentially, the power source of your vaping device is best referred to as a battery.
However, as we have come to expect, the simple explanation is only part of the story. After using numerous devices (from the clunky early models to today’s sleek pod systems), I can confidently say that the most important thing to understand about the “battery” will be the key to a safe and enjoyable vaping experience.
The Heart of the Device: More Than Just a "Battery"
While we may refer to it as a battery, it is more beneficial to think of it as the power plant of your entire vaping set up. The battery does not simply store electrical energy, it also controls how that energy is applied to your coil, which ultimately determines a variety of factors including flavor and the density of the vapor cloud.
In practical application, you will rarely hear an experienced vaper ask, “What type of battery do you have?” Rather, they will use much more specific terminology that describes the entire power unit:
- Mod: Most experienced vapers refer to the primary body of an advanced vaping device as a mod. The name originated in the early days when users would physically modify (“mod”) flashlights to house their atomizer. Modern day mods house both the battery and the chipset (the computer that manages the power delivery) as well as the controls. My first real device was a box mod, and being able to adjust the power level of my mod was a major improvement.
- Pod System/Pod Mod: These are essentially modern, user-friendly versions of the mod. Pod Systems use a “pod” (small tank) that is magnetically attached to the bottom of a battery base. Pod systems are extremely popular because of their convenience and portability. I currently rely on one every day due to the discretion and ease of use.
- Integrated Batteries are built right into the vaping device itself similar to the way a phone has a built-in battery. They are charged via a USB-C or Micro-USB connection and there are no separate parts to replace or worry about (such as a removable battery). Pod systems are examples of this type. While they are very convenient, their battery life is limited — usually to 300 to 500 charge cycles before the battery starts to show significant signs of degradation.
- Removable Batteries: These are most commonly found in larger box mods and utilize individual rechargeable cells (most commonly 18650, 20700, or 21700 batteries). The advantage of having a removable battery is obvious — I am never tied to an electrical outlet. Instead, I can simply swap out a fully charged battery and continue to vape.
My Personal Journey with Vape Batteries
I began my vaping journey with a simple cig-a-like with a non-rechargeable battery. The vaping experience was extremely inconsistent and I could feel the lack of power. Once I moved to a device powered by a single 18650 battery, I realized that the experience was dramatically improved. Not only did the flavor improve but so did the consistency of the vaping experience.
Next, I purchased my first dual-battery mod. The amount of power available and the increased battery life were exciting at first. However, I soon learned a valuable lesson: battery safety is not something to take lightly. I invested in an external charger and a protective case for my extra batteries. This is not paranoia — it is necessary. A 2018 report issued by the United States Fire Administration reported that an estimated 2,035 emergency room visits occurred during a five-year span (between 2013 and 2017) resulting from e-cigarette related fires and explosions. Proper handling and storage are absolutely mandatory.
The Brains Behind the Brawn: The Chipset
You will likely hear the terms “chipset” or “board” used along side “battery.” The chipset is the computer that manages the battery and therefore regulates how the electrical energy is delivered to your coil. Good chipsets such as those made by DNA or Vandy Vape provide a consistent flow of electricity, enable temperature control, and include a number of important safety features such as short-circuit protection, over-charge/discharge protection and a ten second firing delay. These technologies make the difference between a modern and safe vaping mod and the potentially deadly mechanical mods that were popular in the early days of vaping and are not recommended for beginners.
Key Takeaways for Your Vaping Journey
- It’s a Battery, But We Call it a Mod or Pod System: When discussing your vaping device with other experienced vapers, you will rarely find someone who asks “what kind of battery do you have?” Instead, they will use much more general terms to describe the overall device, specifically the body of the device which contains the battery.
- Choose Wisely: Decide whether the benefits of an integrated battery (as seen in pod systems) or the flexibility offered by removable batteries (seen in larger box mods) are more suited to your lifestyle needs.
- Safety First: If you choose to use removable batteries, be sure to purchase them from a reputable vendor (i.e. Illumn or Liion Wholesale), use a dedicated external charger, and always keep your batteries in a protective case. A small damage to the wrap of your battery can cause serious problems.
- Chipset Makes the Difference: Devices equipped with a quality regulatory chipset will offer a safer, better and more consistent vaping experience.
A vape device battery has become a sophisticated item of technology. Knowing what you call it and more importantly, knowing how it functions is the first step towards becoming proficient with your vape, while also providing you with a safe and enjoyable vaping experience.