Things to Consider When Choosing Your First Vape Kit

Before selecting your first vape or e-cigarette kit, it's essential to consider several factors that can significantly impact your vaping experience and satisfaction. Let's explore the key aspects to help you choose the best starter kit for your needs.

Pod vs. Pen vs. Box Mod

Start by determining the shape and style of your e-cigarette kit. Vape kits typically come in three primary styles: pod vapes, pen vapes, and box mod vapes.

• Pod vapes are the simplest of the three. They are usually buttonless, easy to use, rechargeable, and an excellent option for beginners. Some pod vapes come pre-filled with e-liquid, while others allow you to refill them. However, pods are generally non-customizable and non-upgradeable.

• Pen vapes are named for their long, thin, pen-like design. They are refillable and rechargeable, often with a longer battery life than pod vapes. Some pen vapes offer adjustable power features, but their customizability and upgradability remain limited.

• Box mod vapes offer the most features and flexibility. The battery (or 'mod' section) usually has a cuboid shape, hence the name. These devices often include a small computer chip that provides a digital display screen and other features to personalize your vaping experience.

Mouth to Lung vs. Direct to Lung

Another crucial consideration is the type of draw you prefer.

• Mouth to lung (MTL) vapes mimic the inhale of a cigarette, where vapor is first drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs. MTL kits provide a familiar throat hit and satisfaction for those transitioning from smoking. However, they typically have limited power and produce moderate vapor, similar to a cigarette.

• Direct to lung (DTL) vapes are usually more powerful and produce larger vapor volumes. The vapor is drawn directly into the lungs without holding it in the mouth. DTL e-cigarettes are designed to emulate the performance of a hookah, making them ideal for those seeking more vapor production.

Internal Battery vs. Removable Battery

Consider whether you prefer an internal or removable battery.

• Internal battery e-cigarettes have a built-in battery cell that cannot be removed. These devices are charged using a charging cable, and while convenient, they become unusable once the battery's ability to charge depletes.

• Removable battery e-cigarettes allow you to replace the battery cells. These devices can often be charged within the vape, but removable batteries tend to stay healthier when charged externally. Removable battery devices offer longevity since the cells can be replaced as needed, but they require more maintenance and can incur additional costs over time.

Buttonless vs. Single-button Operation vs. Multi-button Operation

The type of operation is another factor to consider.

• Buttonless vapes are the simplest to use, as the battery is engaged by your inhale, closely mimicking the smoking experience. These devices are convenient and portable for on-the-go vaping.

• Single-button operated vapes are easy to use, with vapor created by pressing a single button. These devices offer simplicity without additional features to worry about.

• Multi-button operated vapes are more complex but offer the most customizable features. They usually include at least three buttons: a fire button to engage the battery and plus/minus buttons to adjust power levels. These devices may also allow customization of the screen, heat settings, and other features.

Fixed Power vs. Adjustable Power

Lastly, consider whether you prefer fixed or adjustable power.

• Fixed power e-cigarettes do not allow manual power adjustment. The battery provides the necessary voltage for the coil, reducing as the battery charge depletes. Fixed power vapes are typically buttonless or single-button operated, making them simple to use.

• Adjustable power vapes allow users to control how much power is directed to the coil. This requires an understanding of appropriate wattage, voltage, or temperature settings and how to navigate the device's settings. While adjustable power e-cigarettes have a learning curve, they offer the most customization and compatibility with upgraded tanks.