8 Types of Vapes and E-Cigarettes (with Pros & Cons)

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Plus, popular vape brands and their specialties

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Last Updated: April 2, 2026

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• Types of Vapes
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• Vape Brands
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• Choosing a Vape
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• Vaping Terms
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• Video
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• Warnings

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Vapes, also known as e-cigarettes, are battery-operated devices that heat nicotine into a vapor, which allows users to simulate smoking without burning tobacco. From pens to pod vapes, there are a lot of vaping devices on the market, and each has its pros and cons. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of vapes and help you decide which type is right for you. We’ll also explore some common vaping terms to help you figure out what you’re looking for. Warning: Vaping can lead to serious health issues, including respiratory and heart problems. Use at your discretion.

What are the different types of vapes?

There are many different types of vapes and e-cigarettes, each with a unique design. Some of the most common are disposable vapes, which are pre-charged, pre-filled vaping devices, and vape pens, which are rechargeable devices that resemble pens. Others include pod vapes, cigalikes, and pod mods.

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Section 1 of 4:

Types of Vapes

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1. 1
   Disposable vapes Disposable vapes are pre-charged, pre-filled vaping devices that are ready to use immediately. They generally aren’t designed for refilling, and you’ll need to replace the entire device when it runs out of e-liquid (though certain types can be recharged).

   • Pros: Disposable vapes are the easiest vapes to use and are ready to use as soon as you unpack them. They also have high nicotine strengths, making them satisfying for smokers.
   • Cons: Disposable vapes can be more expensive for long-term use since you need to replace the entire device when it’s empty. They can also be detrimental to the environment because not all communities have recycling services available for vapes.
   • Best for: People who are new to vaping and aren’t sure what to get. Disposable vapes are the easiest way to find out what vaping feels and tastes like.
2. 2
   Pre-filled pod vapes Pre-filled pod vapes store their e-liquid in a removable plastic pod that is pushed into a chamber at the top of the device. When the pod is empty, you replace it with a new one. Pods are usually sold in packs of 2 to 4 and last for a day or two each.

   • Pros: Pre-filled pod vapes are small, lightweight, and nearly as easy to use as disposable vapes. They also have high nicotine strengths and are very satisfying for smokers.
   • Cons: The refill pods can be expensive compared to bottled e-liquid, and they only work with the pods that are designed for that specific pod system.
   • Best for: Those who want a device that’s easy to use and want to save money compared to using disposable vapes.
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3. 3
   Refillable pod vapes Like pre-filled pod vapes, refillable pod vapes store their e-liquid in a removable plastic pod. However, you must fill your own pods using bottled vape juice. These vapes generally don’t allow you to switch between refillable and pre-filled pods.

   • Pros: They’re light, portable, and work well with all e-liquids, including high- and low-strength. They also cost less over time than pre-filled vapes, though starter kits may cost a bit more.
   • Cons: Refillable pod vapes require more maintenance than pre-filled vapes.
   • Best for: Those who want a small, discreet vape with a low recurring cost and who are okay with a device that requires a little more maintenance than pre-filled vapes.
4. 4
   Cigalikes Cigalikes are the only type of vapes that look like real tobacco cigarettes. The e-liquid is stored in a filter-shaped cartridge that typically lasts about a day. When the cartridge runs out, throw it away and replace it with a new one. You’re most likely to find cigalikes at supermarkets and convenience stores.

   • Pros: They look like real cigarettes, which may be ideal for those switching over from smoking. They’re small enough to hold between two fingers, and the starter kits and refill cartridges typically have fairly low prices.
   • Cons: Cigalikes produce less vapor than other types of vapes, which some people find less satisfying. Their refill cartridges also don’t last very long.
   • Best for: Those who want a vape that looks like a real cigarette.
5. 5
   Vape pens Vape pens are cylindrical vaping devices that resemble a pen or small cigar. They store their e-liquid in a twist-on or built-in tank rather than a push-in pod. Vape pens typically use glass tanks rather than plastic pods. They can be recharged.

   • Pros: They produce slightly larger clouds than refillable pod vapes, and some people find that they have better flavor quality. They also have adjustable airflow, allowing them to support different inhaling styles.
   • Cons: Vape pens are a bit larger and heavier than pod vapes, and they usually have replaceable coils, which some find inconvenient.
   • Best for: Heavier smokers or those who believe a small device like a disposable vape or pod system won’t provide enough vapor.
6. 6
   Vape mods Vape mods are the largest, most powerful, and most complex vapes. They have high-capacity battery cells and can operate at very high wattages. Vape mods typically have a box-like shape and store their e-liquid in a large glass tank.

   • Pros: Vape mods operate at higher power levels and produce bigger clouds than other vapes. They also have advanced features like automatic temperature limiting, and they work with third-party vape tanks.
   • Cons: They’re usually more complicated than other types of vapes and aren’t best for beginners. They’re also larger and heavier and don’t produce a cigarette-like throat hit, which can be a drawback for those who want an experience that feels like smoking.
   • Best for: Experienced vapers who are comfortable using more complicated devices and are more interested in bold flavors and big clouds than throat hit.
7. 7
   Pod mods Pod mods are more powerful versions of refillable pod vapes. Like pod vapes, pod mods store their e-liquid in plastic pods rather than glass tanks. They’re larger than traditional pod systems and operate at higher power levels. They combine the best features of vape mods and traditional pod vapes.

   • Pros: Pod mods are nearly as powerful as vape mods, while still being relatively small and light. Many think they’re sleeker and more visually appealing than vape mods.
   • Cons: Pod mods generally only work with pods designed for them and aren’t compatible with third-party tanks. They’re also a bit more complicated than traditional pod vapes and may not be best for beginners.
   • Best for: Experienced vapers looking for a smaller device with the increased vapor production of a vape mod.
8. 8
   Herbal vapes While most vapes are nicotine vapes, used as replacements for cigarettes, some vapes involve the use of herbal extracts, such as CBD vape oils. These vapes heat cannabis flower or oil to extract active compounds like THC and CBD.

   • Pros: Herbal vapes offer a discreet, portable alternative to smoking and generally allow for better flavor than smoking.
   • Cons: Using an herbal vape carries risks such as potentially high potency and potential lung health risks, especially if you use unregulated, illegal products.
   • Best for: Those who want to vape marijuana rather than smoke it.
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Section 2 of 4:

Popular Vape Brands

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1. Different vape brands specialize in different features. There are a lot of vape brands out there, but some are better-known than others. It’s a good idea to buy from a reputable brand to ensure you get the best quality and avoid counterfeits. Here are some popular brands and their key features and specialties:

   • Elfbar (EB): specializes in disposable vapes that are easy to use, have fruity and consistent flavors, and are affordable.
   • VooPoo: specializes in pod vapes that perform well, have innovative features, and are versatile and reliable.
   • Geek Vape: specializes in vape mods with great rebuildable atomizers for advanced vapor.
   • Uwell: specializes in beginner-friendly vapes with sleek designs and high-quality cloud beast tanks.

Section 3 of 4:

How to Choose the Right Vape

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1. 1
   Consider your experience level. Not all vapes are created equal; some are beginner-friendly, while others are more complex. If you’re new to vaping, stick to a simple vaping device like a disposable vape or a pod vape kit. If you’re more experienced and want a stronger draw, opt for a vape mod or pod mod.
2. 2
   Think about your lifestyle and how much you’ll use your vape. Think about what you want in a vape. Do you need something that’s portable and discreet, or are you interested in more advanced features? If you’re a casual or social user, you may prefer something like a pod system or vape pen, as these provide a good balance between simplicity and performance.
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   Choose something within your budget. Vapes range in price, so consider how much you’re willing to spend on the device and ongoing e-liquid costs. For example, disposable vapes may seem affordable at first, but they add up since you have to buy a new device each time. Refillable pod vapes, on the other hand, may have more expensive starter kits but are more affordable in the long run.
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Section 4 of 4:

Common Vaping Terms

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1. 1
   E-liquid/vape juice E-liquid, also known as vape juice or vape liquid, is the liquid used in vapes to create vapor. It typically includes 4 main ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavorings, and nicotine (if desired).

   • Propylene glycol is a thin, flavor-carrying base that provides a throat hit similar to smoking. It’s less viscous than vegetable glycerin, making it suitable for vapes that require lower viscosity liquids.
   • Vegetable glycerin is a thicker base that produces larger vapor clouds. It provides a smoother inhale.
   • There is a wide variety of flavoring options, from fruity to sweet, which allows users to customize their vaping experience.
   • Nicotine is available in various strengths, so it can be adjusted to suit individual preferences.
2. 2
   Ohm and resistance Ohm is a unit of measurement that refers to electrical resistance. The resistance of a vaping coil affects how much power it requires to heat up and produce vapor. Coils with a resistance of less than 1 ohm are considered sub-ohm and produce more vapor and flavor, but require more power and can drain batteries faster. Coils with a resistance above 1 ohm produce less vapor but produce a tighter draw similar to real cigarettes.
3. 3
   Wattage and voltage Wattage controls the amount of power that is sent to the coil, while voltage refers to the electric potential difference that affects how much power is delivered to the coil. Higher wattage generally results in more vapor production and flavor but can drain the battery faster.

   • Setting a device to wattage control delivers a consistent output, regardless of battery life. Many devices will adjust the wattage based on the resistance of the coil that is installed.
   • Some devices allow users to adjust voltage settings, while others are preset. Voltage control is rare in most devices except for pen-style batteries.
4. 4
   Throat hit Throat hit refers to the sensation felt in the throat when inhaling vapor. It is dependent on several factors, including nicotine strength, device type, and PG/VG ratio. Heavier smokers often prefer a throat hit that feels similar to that of real cigarettes.
5. 5
   Coil types Coils are components made of wire mesh and cotton that heat the e-liquid in vapes to produce vapor. There are several different kinds of coil types, each with a set of unique characteristics:

   • Kanthal coils are a popular and affordable option made from a type of steel alloy. They’re known for their durability and consistent performance. Kanthal is the dominant material in most atomizers.
   • Stainless steel coils can be used in both wattage and temperature control modes and provide a cleaner flavor. They’re also resistant to oxidation.
   • Nickel and titanium coils are used for temperature control vaping; they require specific devices that can handle temperature control settings.
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   Nicotine salts Nicotine salts are a new formulation of nicotine that provides a smoother throat hit and allows for higher concentration without the harshness of freebase nicotine. They’re more appealing to former smokers who are looking for a quick nicotine fix.

   • Nicotine salts are absorbed into the bloodstream more quickly. They’re often used in pod systems and disposables, making them more convenient for on-the-go vaping.
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Warnings

• Only buy from a reputable vape store to ensure product safety, authenticity, and quality.
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• While the long-term effects of vaping are still unknown, the chemicals involved are linked to many health issues, including respiratory damage and the increased risk of heart attack.
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