Electronic cigarette models can be broadly categorized based on form factor, refillability, and user control. Understanding these categories is essential for selecting the right device.
Primary Model Categories
- Pod Systems: Compact, often draw-activated or button-fired devices using pre-filled or refillable pods. Known for ease of use and portability.
- Vape Pens / All-in-Ones (AIOs): Slightly larger cylindrical devices integrating the tank. Balance between simplicity and moderate performance.
- Box Mods: Larger, battery-powered units offering extensive customization. Support separate tanks and provide variable settings.
- Disposable Vapes: Single-use, pre-filled devices requiring no charging or refilling. Ultimate simplicity but least cost-effective and sustainable.
Key Technology & Feature Differentiators
- Refillable vs. Pre-filled: Refillable pods/tanks offer e-liquid variety and cost savings. Pre-filled pods provide maximum convenience.
- Coil Types: Differences include mesh (better flavor/clouds), MTL (tight draw similar to cigarettes), and RDL (restricted direct lung).
- Power Adjustment: Devices may be fixed-output, variable wattage, or support advanced modes like Temperature Control.
- Nicotine Delivery: E-liquids used range from Freebase (higher wattages) to high-strength Nicotine Salts (common in low-wattage pods).
Choosing Considerations
Prioritize your needs: portability/ease-of-use points towards disposables/pod systems; flavor/vapor production & customization suggests box mods; nicotine satisfaction typically aligns well with pod systems using salts.
