STRICTLY 18+ ONLY
Break down the basics for beginners so they understand what’s happening under the hood.
Battery/Mod: The power source.
Atomizer/Coil: The heating element (mention Mesh Coils, as they are standard in top-tier disposables for better flavor).
E-liquid: A mix of PG (Propylene Glycol), VG (Vegetable Glycerin), nicotine, and flavorings.
A Closed Pod System is a popular type of vaping device designed for maximum convenience and simplicity. It consists of two main parts: a rechargeable battery and a pre-filled e-liquid pod.
The term "closed" refers to the fact that the pods are factory-sealed. Unlike "open" systems, you cannot refill these pods with your own e-liquid or replace the internal heating coil.
The Device: You own a permanent battery base that you recharge via USB (usually USB-C).
The Pod: You purchase pods that already contain e-liquid and a built-in coil.
The Swap: When the e-liquid in a pod is finished, you simply detach the old pod, dispose of it, and click a fresh one into the battery.
No-Mess Maintenance: Since the pods are sealed at the factory, there is no risk of leaking while refilling or the hassle of manual coil changes.
User-Friendly: Most closed pod systems are "draw-activated," meaning there are no buttons to press or settings to adjust. You simply inhale to vape.
Hybrid Sustainability: Because you keep and reuse the battery for months or years, it is a more environmentally conscious choice compared to single-use disposable vapes.
Portability: These devices are typically slim, lightweight, and designed to fit easily in a pocket or bag.
An Open Pod System is a rechargeable device featuring a refillable pod. Unlike closed systems, these pods have a small port that allows you to pour in any bottled e-liquid of your choice. You reuse the same pod multiple times, refilling it as the liquid runs low, and only replace the pod (or the internal coil) when the flavor begins to degrade.
The Device: A rechargeable battery base (often with adjustable power settings).
The Refillable Pod: A clear or tinted plastic pod with a filling port (usually covered by a small rubber stopper).
The E-Liquid: You choose any brand, flavor, or nicotine strength of bottled e-liquid to pour into the pod.
Maintenance: You reuse the same pod multiple times. You only replace the pod (or the coil inside it) once the flavor starts to taste burnt or muted.
Cost Savings: While the initial device might cost more, buying bottles of e-liquid is significantly cheaper per milliliter than buying pre-filled pods.
Flavor Freedom: You can use any e-liquid on the market, giving you thousands of flavor options instead of just a handful.
Custom Nicotine Levels: You can choose the exact nicotine strength that works for you, which is helpful for those trying to gradually reduce their nicotine intake.
Better for the Environment: Since you reuse the same pod many times and keep the battery for a long period, you generate much less plastic and electronic waste compared to disposables.
The main difference lies in the pH level and how the nicotine is processed. Freebase Nicotine is the "purest" form of nicotine and has been the industry standard for years. It has a higher pH level, which makes it more alkaline. This results in a noticeable "throat hit" (a stinging or tickling sensation) that becomes harsher as the nicotine strength increases.
Nicotine Salt (Nic Salt) is created by adding an acid (usually benzoic acid) to freebase nicotine. This lowers the pH level, making the vapor much smoother on the throat, even at very high strengths. Nic salts are also absorbed into the bloodstream much faster than freebase, mimicking the "rush" of a traditional cigarette
To ensure the longest life for your battery and to prevent overheating, always use the cable provided with your device. Avoid using high-speed "fast chargers" (like MacBook or iPad blocks) as they can push too much current into a small vape battery. It is best to charge your device on a flat, hard surface and unplug it once it reaches 100%.
Summary: Use the original cable, avoid phone "fast chargers," and never leave your device charging unattended or overnight.
A burnt taste (often called a "dry hit") happens when the cotton wick inside your coil isn't saturated with enough e-liquid. This can happen if you "chain vape" (take too many puffs in a row), if your liquid is too thick for your pod, or if you didn't "prime" a new pod by letting it sit for 5 minutes before the first use.
Summary: Keep your pod filled, wait 5 minutes after the first fill, and take short breaks between puffs to let the cotton soak up more juice.
Every e-liquid is made of two base ingredients: Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG).
PG carries the flavor and provides the "throat hit" sensation.
VG is thicker and is responsible for creating the visible vapor clouds.
Most pod systems work best with a 50/50 ratio, while large "cloud" tanks prefer a 70/30 (High VG) blend.
Summary: PG = Flavor and Throat Hit; VG = Clouds and Smoothness. Most pod users should stick to a balanced 50/50 mix.
The most sustainable way to vape is to move away from "single-use" disposables and toward Refillable (Open) Pod Systems. By reusing the same battery for a year and only replacing small plastic pods or coils, you significantly reduce the amount of lithium-ion battery waste sent to landfills.
Summary: Switching from disposables to a refillable pod system is the best way to reduce your environmental footprint.