Are you new to vaping? Maybe you’ve tried disposable vape pens and may even have a rechargeable one. Now it’s time to go to the next level. The vape pod. Whether you want to upgrade your vaping experience or just like the idea of a second device, a vape pod will make you happy.
A vape pod has a different shape than a vape pen because it is not trying to be sleek and cigarette-like. Vape pods are boxier with a rectangular shape, but they are just as easy to use as a pen.
There are two basic parts to a vape pod:
- The Battery: This is the power source. Its job is to power the pod and knows when you are vaping. Most pods will store power until you need it, and then all that’s required is to take a drag, and it powers up automatically. Some have a push button to make the device work. They charge easily with a USB connection or through wireless charging.
- The Cartridge: This sits at the top of your vape pod and houses the e-liquid. You can have pre-filled cartridges or refillable ones that require you to buy juice bottles. Inside the cartridge is also your atomizer. This heating element is what turns your juice into vapour and is triggered by the battery to operate.
They work in sync when you inhale through the mouthpiece or press the button to bring your vape alive.
While vape pods come in various sizes and shapes, they fall into two main categories; closed system and open system.
Closed System Vape Pods
These are pre-filled pods because you purchase cartridges that already have the e-liquid inside. It is a low-maintenance pod that is great for beginners because you don’t have to mess with liquids. You just buy a pre-filled cartridge and use it until it is empty. Then discard it and pop another one in.
There are no adjustments or setups here. You just take a drag and enjoy your vape. The only thing to do is make sure your device is charged and has extra cartridges on hand. The variety of flavours is less for pre-filled cartridges. Companies will produce various of the most popular types, but they’re certainly lots to sample.
Pros of closed system vape pods
- No refilling juice
- Ready to use
- No extra liquid to carry
Cons of closed system vape pods
- Wasteful material
- More expensive in the long run
- Easier to lose because it is smaller
Open System Vape Pods
This vape pod has a refillable cartridge, so you get to decide when to change flavours. An open system makes it very customizable, and there is a great variety of e-liquids on the market. Instead of carrying extra cartridges, you will have your favourite juices to pack.
You have to refill your cartridge more often, and it can be a hassle. An open system gives you a smoother draw compared to a closed system, and you will be able to make bigger, thicker clouds.
Pros of open system vape pods:
- An almost endless variety of juices and nicotine strengths
- Bigger clouds
- Longer-lasting battery
Cons of open system vape pods:
- Ongoing maintenance
- Not as portable as a closed system
- Refilling can be a hassle
- Always have to carry extra liquid
There are refillable open system pods and reusable open system pods. Refillable allow you to fill them up with your preferred juice until it starts tasting burnt. That means you need to throw out the cartridge and buy a new one. These typically last a week. With a reusable pod, you just have to replace the coil. Coils are cheaper than refillable cartridges, so you will save some money, and there are also multiple coil options to choose from. It can be more complicated for a newbie to use this device.
Auto Draw vs Push Button Vape Pods
There are also options for withdrawal style.
- Auto Draw is the simplest because you need to inhale on the device, and it powers up. This works well for smallmouth to lung inhales and is like smoking a cigarette.
- Push Button is an extra step where you need to push a button on the side to activate the device. You can fill your lungs with a long hit from a push-button pod.
Pod Mod
This is the next step in vaping pods and gives you the benefits of a vape mod without the glass tank. A pod mod is bigger but gives you better battery life, more e-liquid storage and a bigger atomizer for larger clouds.
Other benefits include:
- Better durability
- Higher-end material
- Chipset and screen
Vaping devices are evolving to enhance the delivery of juices and the experience while using them. If you are new to vaping, start slow and try different devices as you can afford them. Work your way through the different vape pods to see which one is right for you, and then enjoy your vaping life.