A Beginner's Guide to Choosing the Right Vaping Device

December 16, 2018

a first-time vaper holding a vape mod in one hand and velvet cloud e-liquid in the other

Are you are thinking about buying your first device and don't know where to start? There are many options to choose from so it can be overwhelming at first, especially if you are new to vaping.

There are five types of vaping devices on the market: cig-a-likes, pod mods, box mods, mechanical mods and vape pens. Regardless if you want to buy one online or at your local smoke shop, you should understand the pros and cons of each device before you make a final decision. Read on to discover more information about each one so you can find the best one for you.

 

Device #1: Cig-a-Like

The first vaping device to hit the market was a cig-a-like, which closely resembles the size and shape of a real cigarette. Each cig-a-like has a battery and cartomizer with a flavor cartridge. The device is draw activated so you only need to inhale to start vaping. Most of the cig-a-likes on the market can handle up to 24 mg of nicotine. Some devices also have a LED light on the end so it looks like a lit cigarette.

You Should Buy a Cig-a-like if…

If you are trying to quit smoking, cig-a-like may be the perfect device for you to learn how to vape. Cig-a-likes are easy to use and very portable. You should also give them a try if you prefer to do the mouth-to-lung inhalation method so you can hold the vapor in your mouth before inhaling it into your lungs. Ultimately, the product allows you to enjoy the smoking experience without exposing yourself to all the harsh chemicals and toxins from a traditional cigarette.

You Should NOT Buy a Cig-a-like if…

You should avoid buying a cig-alike if you want a device with a longer battery life. Cig-a-likes also produce less vapor and have a lower e-juice capacity. If you are looking for a device with a strong performance you should consider one of the other devices.

 

Device #2: Box Mod

Box mods are characterized by their large and bulky shape. The device has external batteries and a sub-ohm tank. Most box mods have a way for you to view its ohmmeter and temperature settings. Some box mods will also allow you to control its temperature and adjust the voltage or wattage anywhere from 10 to 300 watts. Box mods have internal circuit boards with built-in safety features that are designed to protect you from spit back and other scenarios.

You Should Buy a Box Mod if…

If you want to have more control over your vaping experience you should buy a box mod. Box mods can accommodate both the direct-to-lung and mouth-to-lung inhalation method. It's also a great choice if you want a device with a longer battery life.

a picture of a vaping mod and velvet cloud vainlla custard e-liquid next to a bowl of vanilla pudding

You Should NOT Buy a Box Mod if…

We recommend that you stay away from box mods if you don't want to bother with buying separate batteries. Box mods are a little more complex so they can have a higher learning curve for new vapers. So if you are looking for an easy device to start vaping for the first time, this may not be the right one for you.

 

Device #3: Vape Pens

Next up, vape pens. This type of device has a tank, battery and safety features that will automatically shut it off after a couple of seconds. Some vape pens allow you to charge it with a USB port. The device can handle both direct-to-lung and mouth-to-lung inhalation methods. Most vape pens can handle up to 12 mg of nicotine and go up to 80 watts. 

 

You Should Buy a Vape Pen if…

You should invest in a vape pen if you want a device that is extremely portable and allows you to taste bold e-juice flavors. They also are relatively affordable and easy to use. Besides being user-friendly, vape pens come in a variety of colors and sizes.  

You Should NOT Buy a Vape Pen if…

Vape pens are prone to battery problems and leaking e-juice, so you shouldn't buy one if you don't want to stock up on batteries or clean its tank. Vape pens also have a shorter battery life compared to the other devices.  

 

Device #4: Mechanical Mods

A mechanical mod is made up of three different parts, an atomizer, battery, and a case. Usually, mechanical mods come in the shape of a tube. General caution is necessary with this device since it doesn't have any safety precautions.

You Should Buy a Mechanical Mod if…

Many people believe mechanical mods are best suited for experienced vapers. If you want to learn how to build your own atomizer or would like to customize your vaping experience, a mechanical mod is the perfect fit. You should also think about buying a mechanical mod if you want to learn how to build your own coils or need a device with the highest wattage capacity.

You Should NOT Buy a Mechanical Mod if…

We recommend that you put off buying a mechanical mod for now if you are just learning how to vape. You can always buy one later after you've gained some experience.

 

Device #5: Pod Mod

Pod mods are another popular device that is considered to be the updated version of the cig-a-like. The device is very low wattage (usually at or below 16 watts) and uses nicotine salt e-juices.

You Should Buy a Pod Mod if…

You should consider getting a pod mod if you want to vape e-juices with a higher concentration of nicotine. This device is also easy to use and very portable - which is great for new vapers. Ultimately, if you're looking for something that gives you a similar experience to smoking a cigarette you should get a pod mod.

You Should NOT Buy a Pod Mod if…

You should avoid pod mods if you are looking for a device with a long battery life. Another drawback is that you won't be able to produce as many clouds since it has a high nicotine strength.

 

The Verdict

And there you have it! A quick comparison of the five different types of vaping devices. Hopefully this information will come in handy the next time you decide to buy your first vape.

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