The Different Types of E-Cigs

Note: This guide is for adults 21 and over who already smoke or vape. If you don't use nicotine, don't start.

Electronic cigarettes come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. That’s great, but if you’re new to the world of e-cigs, it can be a bit overwhelming trying to choose the right setup.

In this guide, we’ll discuss each type of e-cigs so you can make an informed decision before making your next purchase.

The Three Types of E-Cigs

Although there are hundreds of different suppliers to choose from, e-cigarettes typically fall into these main categories:

1. mini,
2. mid-size,
3. pod systems and
4. box mods.

Whatever type you choose, FDA says only products on its list of authorized e-cigarettes may be lawfully sold in the U.S. Authorization doesn't mean a product is safe or FDA approved.

Mini (AKA: “cig-a-like”)

For first-time users transitioning from tobacco cigarettes, minis provide the most natural and easy transition from smoking because they look and feel like traditional cigarettes.

A mini (often referred to as a “cig-a-like”) is a small, lightweight option, providing users with a comfortable and discreet way to get their nicotine fix. Widely available almost everywhere, minis are produced in both disposable and rechargeable formats.

Many of the companies featured on our website sold minis. Many older cig-a-likes were built on standard model numbers that set their size and thread type, so if you knew the series, you could often mix and match parts from different vendors.

Others use proprietary cartridges that only fit their own batteries, so check compatibility before you buy.

The most popular models are KR808 and 501 series, although there are a few others. The KR808 (2-piece) is generally considered to be the best low-hassle setup and is used by many of the most popular brands such as Halo and V2 Cigs.

To slightly complicate things, the KR808 comes in two different thread patterns, D-1 and D-2, and they’re not interchangeable. The 501 (3-piece) is considered a more flexible option since larger models also use this design, but it may require a bit more tinkering.

For most users, sticking with one company will simplify the process, but knowing the series number can expand your options.

Pros of Minis

As previously mentioned, minis are a great starting point for anyone thinking of getting into vaping. These are some of their advantages:

• Most natural transition for smokers
• Small and lightweight – like a real cigarette
• Low-key and discreet
• Cheapest way to get started
• Ideal for light to moderate smokers

Cons of Minis

Of course, no product is perfect. These are some shortcomings that come from vaping with a cig-a-like:

• Short battery life – regular charging necessary
• May not fully satisfy heavy or full-flavor smokers
• Limited upgrade options

SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF MINI E-CIGARETTES →

Mid-Size E-Cigs & Vape Pens

For intermediate users, mid-size models are the most popular choice since they’re still small (about the size of a cigar), but unlike cig-a-likes, they can provide extended life and stronger vapor production.

For heavier smokers, we often recommend a mid-size model right from the start since they perform better and offer a much more satisfying experience than a mini.

Popular models include eGo, EVOD, kGo, and others. Most of these models are based on the 510 (3-piece) design, although some use the 2-piece KR808.

Unlike minis, which come in automatic (draw-activated) or manual formats, most mid-size models are manually operated by pressing a button.

Although this may take away from the traditional smoking experience, it does provide the user with more control and better performance.

The most popular mid-sized model by far is the “eGo.” A variety of companies offer eGo-style e-cigs or “vape pens”, including Apollo, Halo, Vapor Fi.

Pros of Mid-Size E-Cigs

Mid-sizes are a great way to step up your vaping game if a mini doesn’t cut it anymore, or a great starting point for heavy smokers. These are some of their advantages:

• Not too big – about the size of a cigar
• More vapor and battery life than a mini
• 510 threading has a huge range of options
• Reasonably-priced
• Should satisfy most smokers

Cons of Mid-Size E-Cigs

As great as they are, there are still some tradeoffs when vaping with a mid-size:

• Slightly larger than a traditional cigarette
• Must be manually operated with a button (in most cases)
• Performance is not fully customizable

SEE A LIST OF ALL THE BEST EGO E-CIG & VAPE PENS →

Vape Pod Systems NEW

Pod systems became one of the most popular types of e-cig. Juul, first developed by Pax Labs, made the format a best-seller, and some Juul products are now FDA-authorized.

They come in various shapes and sizes, but for the most part, vape pod systems are lightweight, compact, and affordable just like cig-a-likes and vape pens. Rather than using a cartomizer or tank, pod systems incorporate removable (and often refillable) plastic pods that can be easily replaced.

They operate much like the other types of e-cigs we’ve discussed so far. The big difference is that many pod systems are designed for nicotine salt e-liquid.

When vaped in salt form, nicotine can be more efficiently delivered in higher concentrations. Pod systems are perfect to use with nicotine salt e-liquid, which is smoother and less irritating than traditional, high nicotine e-liquid.

This can help heavier smokers get the nicotine they need without the harshness of traditional high-nicotine e-juice. The flip side is that many salt pods are very high in nicotine, which is highly addictive, and their smooth hit is one reason they have appealed to teens.

Pros of Vape Pods

Vape pods have a lot going for them. These are some of the advantages they offer:

• Excellent transition product for smokers
• Small and lightweight – available in various shapes and sizes
• Higher doses of nicotine with less throat irritation and harshness
• Affordable to start
• Suits many adult smokers

Cons of Vape Pods

Believe it or not, vape pods are not for everyone. If any of the following are a deal breaker for you, then you should consider trying other types of e-cigs:

• Short battery life (depends on model)
• Will not provide the huge vapor output of APVs or mods (see below)
• Limited customization and upgrade options

SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF THE BEST VAPE POD SYSTEMS →

APVs or Mods

Advanced personal vaporizers, or mods, provide users with the ultimate vaping experience. An APV will normally look like a fat tube reminiscent of a flashlight (a tube mod) or a box the size of a pack of cigarettes (a box mod).

Unlike minis or mid-size designs that use a built-in battery, mods typically use replaceable 3.7-volt lithium-ion cells and incorporate functions you won’t find on other devices.

It’s not uncommon to see mods with variable voltage and/or wattage settings, full temperature control, digital readouts, larger tanks and so on.

The big advantage to APVs is the performance delivered by the larger batteries and the advanced functions that allow users to fully control all aspects of the device. This is where you can begin to play with cloud chasing liquids, as these systems aren’t proprietary. This means you aren’t locked into one brand of vape juice, so you are free to all of the flavors from the very best brands, the cheap e-juices, or the truly unique options.

Because it takes a certain level of experience to appreciate an APV, beginners should start with a mini or mid-size unit to gain familiarity with vaping first.

Newcomers tend to stay away from mods because they’re seen as too large or complex. Not only are they manually controlled, but an inexperienced user may not grasp the complexities of all the various settings. They do perform extremely well though, and this is the main attraction for advanced users.

Companies with mods: Breazy.com, Vapor DNA and more.

Battery safety: Use only authentic cells your mod's maker recommends, and stay within their discharge rating. In multi-battery mods, FDA advises never mixing brands, charge levels, or old and new batteries. Carry spares in a case, never loose in a pocket.

Pros of Mods

Mods are the most powerful and feature packed type of e-cig. These are some of the things they bring to the table.

• The most vapor and power of any type
• Extended battery life
• Long-lasting, solid construction
• Advanced functions allow for full customization
• Enough performance for heavy smokers

Cons of Mods

Unfortunately, being so complex and powerful comes with some tradeoffs. These are some disadvantages you might encounter with mods.

• Can be very expensive
• Battery care more complex due to individual Li-Ion cells
• Must be manually operated

SEE A LIST OF THE BEST SINGLE OR DUAL BATTERY 200W MODS →

Sources

• E-Cigarettes, “Vapes” and Other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) Authorized by the FDA, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
• Tips to Help Avoid Vape Battery Fires or Explosions, U.S. Food and Drug Administration