What Is a Vape Pod?
At Vape Town, we’ve seen a massive rise in the demand for compact pod vape systems this year and with good reason. In this guide, we’ll talk you through what pod vapes are, who should buy one, and the benefits they offer. Without further ado, let’s jump right in!
What Is a Pod Vape Kit?
Also known as ultra-portables, e-cig pods, pod mods, or compacts, pod kits provide the perfect middle ground between the entry-level vape pen and the advanced variable wattage box mod. Simply put, a pod vape is a compact and user-friendly vaping device equipped with cartridges that are ready-built with the coil, wick, and e-liquid in place, allowing you to plug and go.
A vape pod is designed for easy refilling, while settings such as wattage and airflow can typically be adjusted for a customised experience. These kits are renowned for their portability and ease of use, making them an attractive option for beginners and advanced vapers seeking convenience. As they can be refilled, you don’t need to worry about the UK disposable vape ban when purchasing these devices.
Who Is a Vape Pod Kit Suitable for?
Vape pod kits are suitable for a variety of different vapers.
- Beginners – a vape pod kit features a user-friendly design with minimal setup and maintenance, making it an easy and safe vaping option for those just starting to learn how to vape.
- Smokers switching to vaping – you can use nicotine salt e-liquids in pod vapes, making them an ideal alternative to regular cigarettes.
- On-the-go vapers – as we’ve mentioned, pod vapes are portable and compact, making them perfect for vapers who like to vape out and about. If you’re this kind of vaper, you may also be interested in the best vape pens for on-the-go.
- Subtle vapers – those who want to be discreet whilst vaping will love the subtle nature and lower vapour production of pod vapes.
What Does a Pod Kit Do?
A pod vape operates by using an efficient system to deliver vapour with two main components.
The pod is a cartridge usually with a built-in coil that will contain your chosen liquid once filled. When the pod is placed into the battery unit, it heats e-liquid through the coil to generate the vapour.
The battery is responsible for powering the pod and can either be activated automatically by inhaling or manually via a button. The power is able to heat the pod’s coil, helping turn the e-liquid into vapour.
What Are the Benefits of Pod Vape Kits?
So, what are vape pods good for? We’ve outlined the benefits and drawbacks of vape pod kits here, so you can make an informed choice about whether these devices might help you quit smoking for good.
- Pod kits tend to deliver more nicotine in a more satisfying mano
In a standard vape kit, flavour delivery is best when using a sub-ohm tank with a high VG e-liquid. However, sub-ohm tanks are not recommended for use with vape juice containing more than 6mg of nicotine - which often is not high enough when you first quit smoking.
Pod vapes were developed for using nicotine salt e-liquids, which can deliver a much higher concentration of nicotine without compromising flavour. But, 50/50 juices work just fine too.
2. Vape pod kits are ridiculously convenient
The cartridges are like tiny bottles of high-quality e-liquid that pop into the compact device. Just note that the pods aren’t prefilled with juice, so you’ll need to fill them first. You can carry multiple flavours and switch them around whenever you feel like a change without worrying about flavour mixing. Simple, right?
3. Pod kits are less likely to leak
Seasoned vapers have all experienced the dreaded leaky tank in their vaping lifetimes. With pod vape systems, however, this issue is a thing of the past. Since vape pods are pre-built, there is much less of a chance of you pulling them out of your pocket to find that the vape juice has leaked all over you.
4. Pod kits better replicate smoking
Many pod vape systems are auto-draw activated rather than button-press activated. Like the old nicotine inhalers, this action provides a more authentic smoking experience for recent smoking converts.
5. Pod kits can be sub-ohm
Despite their small stature, some pod vape cartridges come with a sub-ohm coil, which allows you to vape higher VG liquids, delivering more delicious flavour per puff. This is a massive leap in technology from the cheap vape pens, which only take +1.0ohm coils.
Some drawbacks of pod kits to consider
- Pod kits usually have a small battery: If you’re looking for longevity, box mods tend to have larger batteries and will last longer than the smaller pod kits, hands down. An average vaper will get a couple of days from a single charge of a larger box mod compared to a smaller pod kit that may not last you all day. So, if you plan to use a pod system exclusively, you might want to consider carrying a spare on a night out.
- Pod kits may take less e-liquid: Since the introduction of the TPD regulations in May 2016, UK vapers have had to get used to being restricted to 2ml tank capacity (with tank extensions as an optional extra). While many of the latest pod vape systems can also take 2ml of vape juice, the smallest versions contain 1ml or less.
What Are the Benefits of Pod Vape Kits?
Having trouble deciding what vape kit is right for you? To select the right pod vape kit, you need to consider:
- Your vaping style
Different vape pods offer different vaping styles, so consider if you prefer direct-to-lung or mouth-to-lung vaping and keep the resistance and airflow settings in mind. Some devices offer just one option, while others, like the Voopoo Drag X2, can offer both. Furthermore, if you tend to vape a lot, you’ll want a pod with a long battery life or a large e-liquid capacity, ensuring you can find your fix even when you are out and about for hours.
- Features and customisation
If you want a highly tailored vaping experience, pick a pod vape kit that features adjustable wattage and airflow. For example, the Voopoo Argus G2 boasts adjustable airflow, so you can choose between MTL or DTL inhalation, whatever your preference. Additionally, features like easy refilling and automatic wattage settings can provide a simple and convenient experience, ideal for beginners.
- E-liquid compatibility
To achieve a smoother throat hit and fast nicotine absorption, choose a pod vape kit compatible with nic salt e-liquids, like the Vaporesso XROS PRO Pod Kit.
- Design
If the design and aesthetics of your pod vape are important to you, make sure you choose a kit that matches your unique style while still being compact enough for on-the-go use. For example, the Oxva Xlim Pro 2 is a slim, sleek, pocket-friendly device available in many attractive colours.
- Budget
Last but not least, never forget about your budget! It goes without saying that you should try to find a pod vape kit that matches your vaping needs as well as your budget needs. Our more affordable options include the Voopoo Panda AIO Pod Kit, Voopoo Doric Q Kit, and Aspire Cyber G Pod Kit.
What Vape Juice Should I Use for Vape Pods?
You can use a variety of vape juices in your pod kit, so the one you should choose depends on your preference and the vape pod system you are utilising.
- Nicotine salt e-liquids: You can use nic salt e-liquids in the majority of pod vape systems to enjoy a smoother throat hit and rapid nicotine absorption. They are typically available in mouth-to-lung devices.
- Higher VG e-liquids: These types of e-liquids can sometimes be used in pod kits with the correct pod or coil. Boasting 70/30 VG content, they are generally utilised by vapers who prioritise cloud production and a smoother inhale.
- 50/50 VG/PG e-liquids: A balance of VG and PG fits nicely with most pod systems, like the Aspire Gotek Pro Vape Kit, offering a good mix of flavour and vapour production.
- Higher PG e-liquids: You may use higher PG e-liquids in pods with higher resistance coils to enjoy a stronger throat hit and more pronounced flavours.
Whatever e-liquid you have in mind, we have a range of flavours and brands available. For example, you can choose from a selection of the most popular and reputable brands, including Next Level Bar Salts, Juju, and Icy. For a more affordable yet delicious option, try Vape Town's own e-liquid.
Need some inspiration with flavours? Check out what vape juice flavours say about you, and shop our range of fruity, sweet, and minty collections, among many others!
Concluding on Vape Pods
So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better idea about what a vape pod is and whether it suits you.
Overall, ultra-portable pod vapes offer a fantastic solution for beginner vapers and vaping veterans alike. Whether you’re looking for something discreet when out and about or want a reliable option to help you quit the cigs for good, pod systems could be just the thing for you.
We are constantly expanding our product range to make sure that everyone who wants to quit smoking for good has the best possible chance. If you want to chat about the best solution for your particular needs, get in touch or visit one of our stores to get some in-person advice about our selection of pod kits. We’re always happy to help!
We also recommend you check out the rest of our blog for more insights on all things vaping, from the UK menthol ban to what you need to know about vape tax.
Vape Pod FAQs
- What’s the difference between a vape and a pod?
This all boils down to the device type. While a vape is a broad term that refers to any device that vaporises the liquid, a pod is a specific type of vape that utilises a replaceable or refillable pod containing e-liquid and an integrated coil paired with a battery unit.
- How long does a vape pod last?
A vape pod will usually last from one to two weeks, although the exact time period will depend on the frequency of use, the wattage settings, and the vape juice type.
- Is a pod kit better than a traditional vape device?
There’s no singular answer to this question, as vape pod kits and traditional vape kits like pens and variable power box mods excel in different ways. Pod vapes are generally better for vapers wanting convenience, portability, and ease of use. On the other hand, pen kits and variable power box mods are typically better for those who prefer more power and control.
Ultimately, whether you buy a pod or a traditional vape kit depends on your individual vaping style and how you want to use your device. You can find a range of affordable pods and vape pens in our shop, so take some time to shop around before deciding.
- How can pod vapes help those struggling to quit smoking?
Vaping is a leading way to quit smoking for good, but most smokers will already have a string of failed quit attempts behind them before they give vaping a go. Not getting the same satisfaction from a cheap vape pen or finding an advanced top-quality kit too complicated are legitimate hurdles that need to be overcome.
The solution to these known hurdles may well be pod vape systems. We think they offer the perfect solution for beginner vapers to help ease them into the world of vaping. However, in order for vaping to offer a real alternative, it’s important to select the correct kit.