2024 Guide: Pros and Cons of Different E-Cig Types – What You Should Know

 Originally conceived as a smoking alternative, vaping has transformed to accommodate a wide range of preferences, encompassing the delivery of both nicotine and cannabis products. Traditional e-liquids usually consist of a blend of water, food-grade flavorings, different nicotine concentrations, and a base of either propylene glycol (PG) or vegetable glycerin (VG).

Vape Pens（E-Cig）

Vape pens are cylindrical devices that strike a balance between the simplicity of cigalikes and the performance of more advanced systems. They typically include a rechargeable battery and a tank for e-liquid, offering enhanced vapor and flavor production compared to cigalikes. Vape pens are a favored choice among vapers looking for a portable yet satisfying experience.

These devices often feature a button-operated battery and adjustable settings, allowing users to personalize their vaping experience. It’s worth noting that in the United States, there is a tendency to use the term “vape pens” as a broad reference to various types of e-cigarettes, including disposables and pod systems. This classification stems from a generalization of all slender, pen-like vaping devices under a single umbrella term.

Pros: Portable, easy to use, more potent than cigalikes.

Cons: Less battery life compared to larger devices.

Ideal For: Vapers who prefer simplicity with a bit more power.

Box Mod Vape Kits(Tanks and Mods)

Box Mod Vape Kits are renowned for their advanced features and extensive customization options. These kits comprise two primary components: the vape tank, responsible for storing and vaporizing the e-liquid, and the vape mod, serving as the device’s control center and housing the battery. The tanks are available in various sizes and designs, enabling users to tailor their vapor and flavor output.

On the other hand, the mods, typically box-shaped and equipped with displays for vaping metrics, offer modifiable functions such as adjustable wattage and temperature settings. They can accommodate larger or multiple batteries for prolonged use and feature updated firmware to stay technologically current. Box Mod Vape Kits are designed for experienced vapers seeking maximum vapor production, flavor, and customization.

Pros: High vapor production, long battery life, fully customizable.

Cons: Bulkier and more complex.

Ideal For: Experienced vapers who prefer personalization and powerful performance.

RBA+Mods

When vape enthusiasts seek more than what a standard box mod kit with a regular tank atomizer offers, they turn to rebuildable atomizers (RBAs). RBAs, combined with mods, represent the pinnacle of customization in vaping. RBAs can be further categorized into three types: RTA, RDTA, and RDA.

RTA (Rebuildable Tank Atomizer): These devices incorporate a tank to hold e-liquid, providing a convenient reservoir of juice. The build deck is typically located under the tank. RTAs combine the customization of building your own coils with the convenience of a substantial e-liquid capacity.

RDTA (Rebuildable Dripping Tank Atomizer): RDTAs are hybrids that offer features of both RDAs and RTAs. They have a tank at the bottom and a build deck above it, allowing users to either drip e-liquid directly onto the coils or rely on the tank below.

RDA (Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer): RDAs lack a tank to store e-liquid; instead, users must drip e-liquid directly onto the coils and wicking material. This method is the best way to produce more intense flavor and larger vapor clouds.

All these RBAs empower enthusiasts to build and wick their coils, providing control over resistance and, consequently, the vaping experience. Building coils for RBAs requires a solid understanding of Ohm’s law and battery safety, as it involves manually setting up the heating element.

Pros: Ultimate control over vapor and flavor, customizable builds.

Cons: Requires technical knowledge and skill.

Ideal For: Veteran vapers passionate about building and customizing their setup.

Squonk Mod Kits

Squonk Mod Kits represent innovative vaping devices, available in two main categories: Regulated Squonk Mods and Mechanical Squonk Mods, each tailored to different vaping preferences.

Regulated Squonk Mods are equipped with electronic controls and safety features such as variable wattage and temperature control. They include a display screen for settings and are ideal for vapers who prefer customizable vaping with added safety features.

Mechanical Squonk Mods provide a more basic, direct experience without electronic regulation. They require a good understanding of Ohm’s law and battery safety, appealing to experienced vapers who enjoy building their coils and desire a raw vaping experience.

Both types feature a built-in e-liquid bottle that feeds juice to the atomizer when squeezed, eliminating the need for manual dripping. The choice between regulated and mechanical depends on the vaper’s preference for either advanced control and safety (regulated) or simplicity and direct power (mechanical).

Pros: Convenient e-liquid delivery, large juice capacity.

Cons: More components to maintain, slightly complex.

Ideal For: Vapers who prioritize convenience and long vaping sessions.

Pod Vape Kits

Pod vape kits have gained popularity as a more portable alternative to bulky box mod kits. These ultra-portable devices utilize prefilled or refillable pods instead of traditional tanks, offering a compact and user-friendly vaping experience. Ideal for beginners and on-the-go vapers, pod systems often come in small bodies, featuring draw-activated or button-activated firing options.

Some pod kits go beyond basic functionality and offer additional features, resembling modifiable pod kits. These advanced versions may include adjustable power output levels, airflow control, and even a clear LED display.

Pod mod kits, on the other hand, combine the portability and simplicity of pod systems with enhanced functionality and power. They serve as a hybrid between pod systems and more advanced mod devices, incorporating features like adjustable wattage or temperature control.

Pros: Portability, ease of use, and some functional features.

Cons: Limited customization, smaller vapor production.

Ideal For: On-the-go vapers, beginners, and intermediate vapers.

Disposable Vapes

Disposable e-cigarettes have become increasingly popular for their compact design and hassle-free vaping experience. Widely recognized for on-the-go vaping, these mini devices are prefilled and intended for one-time use. Once the battery or e-liquid is depleted, the device is discarded, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a zero-maintenance vaping experience or trying vaping for the first time.

Pros: Extremely convenient, no maintenance, discreet vaping.

Cons: Not environmentally friendly; limited to nicotine salt e-juice.

Ideal For: Novice vapers, occasional users, and travelers.