A vape typically consists of a battery, electronics, an atomizer or coil, a pod or reservoir, and a mouthpiece. Depending on the product, e-liquid can contain propylene glycol, vegetable glycerin, flavorings, and possibly nicotine. Pre-filled devices have the e-liquid and atomizer already integrated. With open pod systems, the pod or e-liquid can be replaced or refilled. The specifications of the specific product are always crucial, as the composition and design vary between different vape models.

This depends on the type of device. A ready-to-use, pre-filled vape usually doesn’t require additional e-liquid or a separate pod. For a refillable pod system, you need the device itself, a compatible pod or atomizer head, and suitable e-liquid. Rechargeable devices also require a suitable charging cable or the charging method provided by the manufacturer. Before buying, it’s therefore worth considering whether you want as few accessories as possible or prefer a system with replaceable components.

In everyday language, “vape” and “e-cigarette” are often used interchangeably for the same product group. E-cigarette is the more general or older term, while “vape” is now often used as a collective term for modern electronic devices. These include, for example, disposable vapes, pod systems, and rechargeable models. A pod, on the other hand, refers only to a specific type of device. Therefore, when choosing a vape, the terminology is less important than features such as the pod system, battery capacity, nicotine strength, refillability, and available flavors.

The possible number of puffs depends heavily on the specific model. Manufacturers often provide an estimated puff count for many devices, for example, several thousand puffs. However, this figure is not an exact guarantee. Those who inhale longer or more forcefully consume more e-liquid and energy per puff than those who take shorter puffs. Power mode, coil, and battery usage can also make a difference. Therefore, the stated puff count is primarily useful for comparing different vape models and less as a precisely predictable usage time.

You can buy vape e-liquid in specialized vape shops and online stores. It’s important that the e-liquid is compatible with your device and that the product information regarding ingredients, nicotine strength, and volume is clearly stated. Open pod systems often offer a variety of flavors and nicotine strengths. If you already use a specific device, you should also check which type of e-liquid and mixing ratio it’s designed for before choosing a new one.

Refillable vapes are primarily open pod systems and devices that are explicitly equipped with a refill pod or tank. The pod has a designated filling port through which e-liquid can be added. Pre-filled and sealed devices, on the other hand, should not be opened just to add more e-liquid. If you’re specifically looking for a refillable vape, look for terms like “refillable,” “refillable pod,” or “open pod system” in the product description.

Refillable devices are primarily open pod systems and those explicitly equipped with a refill pod or tank. The pod has a designated filling port through which e-liquid can be added. Pre-filled and sealed devices, on the other hand, should not be opened simply to add more e-liquid. If you are specifically looking for a refillable vape, look for terms like “refillable,” “refillable pod,” or “open pod system” in the product description.

Vapes are offered with different nicotine strengths depending on the product and market. If you are looking for a vape with low nicotine, you should therefore not only choose based on the device name but also compare the stated nicotine concentration. Nicotine-free versions may also be available for certain products. It is also important not to confuse puff count with nicotine strength: A vape with a high stated number of puffs does not automatically contain stronger e-liquid. The decisive factor is the nicotine concentration specified on the respective product.