The vaping industry is a hotbed of innovation and cutting-edge technology. For many vapers, it’s tough to stay on top of the latest vape devices and products debuting regularly. Especially as many top brands continue to redefine the limitless possibilities of vaping. Though the vaping world moves fast, it’s an exciting community to be a part of because constant innovation results in improved experiences for all vapers.

Many first become interested in vaping as an alternative to traditional cigarette smoking, and vape manufacturers have noticed this rapidly-growing group of new vapers. A significant focus of vape product design and engineering has been creating an experience that’s authentic to the “old-school” cigarette, making it easier for people to transition to vaping while still enjoying the positive elements of smoking.

Among the most popular vape devices recently are vape pod systems, offering an analog-style experience with advanced technology. Pod systems make vaping incredibly convenient, user-friendly, and affordable, essentially achieving the vaping trifecta. For many vapers, a pod system is an ideal balance between a cheap, basic vape pen and an ultra-advanced, expensive mod: not overly complicated, reasonably budget-friendly, and still able to provide an excellent vape experience.

Vape pod kits are popular because they strike a balance between basic e-cigs and advanced vape mods. Many vapers start with an inexpensive, simple e-cig or vape pen, learning their way around the device and understanding what they like and dislike in a vape session. While these devices serve a purpose, they have drawbacks. Although easy to use, cheap, and very portable, basic e-cigs and pens don’t offer much battery life or power. Advanced mods provide a vast range of customizations and high-power potential, but not all vapers want to spend the money learning to work with more complicated devices.

A new option for vapers seeking affordability, convenience, and performance is the vape pod system. These systems provide an excellent vape experience while reducing cost and hassle. A vape pod kit uses a pod to hold and vaporize e-juice, rather than an atomizer or tank that typically accompanies a standard mod. These devices are often described as “all-in-one” or “AIO” because they include everything needed for vaping: cartridges with built-in coils, wicks, and e-juice. You won’t need to attach a tank or atomizer because a pod system is self-contained.

Average vape pods can hold anywhere from 1 mL to 3 mL of e-juice, which works well for regular vape sessions. These devices are larger than slim, compact e-cigarettes but smaller than a regular box mod. You can find pod systems with sleek, high-tech looks or ones designed to imitate the sturdy style of a traditional box mod.

Refillable vapes, or open-system vape pods, allow users to manually refill their pods with their favorite e-juice. Wondering how to refill a vape? To refill a vape, typically, you need to unscrew or unplug the top, then use a dropper or syringe to fill the pod. Depending on the model, you can pour the liquid directly from the e-juice bottle into the pod. This system offers the benefit of using any preferred e-juice, allowing for complete freedom in terms of flavors and nicotine levels. Refillable vapes also tend to produce smoother draws and more voluminous clouds. 

Refillable vapes vary widely in price, depending on the brand, features, and overall quality. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 for a refillable vape device. Basic models start at the lower end of this range, offering essential features and ease of use, while more advanced devices with higher wattage, longer battery life, and customizable settings fall on the higher end. VaporFi offers a variety of refillable vapes to suit different budgets and preferences, ensuring there's an option for every vaper.

Vape pod systems are straightforward, but there is one major decision: choosing an open system versus a closed system.

With an open-system vape pod, the vaper manually refills the pod, allowing the use of any favorite e-juice. This flexibility is one of the most significant benefits of this pod system, enabling complete freedom in flavors and nicotine levels. Many vapers find that open systems produce smoother draws and more voluminous clouds. However, it can be slightly challenging to switch between juice flavors, and some vapers don’t want to deal with refills at all. Regular cartridge and coil replacements are necessary, which might be a deal breaker for some.

A closed-system vape pod utilizes pre-filled cartridges. Refills are quick, only requiring the removal of the empty cartridge and clicking in a new one. Though there are fewer e-liquid options in cartridge form compared to standard juice bottles, there is still a variety of flavors, nicotine strengths, and brands. Closed systems are affordable with almost no maintenance or replacement parts. However, they can produce weak draws and occasional "spit back," where e-liquid bounces off the coil rather than vaporizing.

Vape pod systems are becoming increasingly popular for a good reason. They offer a range of benefits, including:

• Ease of Use: Pod systems keep things simple, minimizing the effort required. With few settings and modes, you’ll use just a single button or draw-activated firing. Refilling or replacing e-juice is quick and easy.
• Portability: Vape pod systems are super compact, making them perfect for on-the-go vaping.
• Versatility: If you choose a closed pod system with pre-filled cartridges, you can expect a high-quality selection of juices. If you go with the refillable open pod system, you can choose from a wide variety of e-liquids.
• Nicotine Content: Pod systems are compatible with nicotine salts, which offer excellent nicotine concentration without losing flavor or vapor quality.
• Discreetness: These devices are tiny and designed to produce less vapor, making them discreet.
• Leak-Proof Design: Vape pod systems are leak-proof due to their pod design.
• Affordability: Most pod systems cost between $20 and $50, making them an affordable option.
• Low Maintenance: Pod systems are low-maintenance, saving you money and hassle.

Like any vape device, pod systems have drawbacks:

• Limited Battery Life: You’ll need to charge a pod system more often than a regular box mod.
• Low E-Juice Capacity: Pod systems often have smaller e-liquid capacities, leading to more frequent refills.
• Not for Cloud Chasers: Pod systems aren’t designed to produce massive vapor clouds.

Vape pod systems are universally appealing, offering a middle ground between advanced and basic vape devices. They cater to a wide range of vapers, from beginners to experienced users looking for simplicity without compromising on quality.

Transition from Disposables to Pod Mods: For disposable vape users, switching to a vape pod system can significantly enhance the vaping experience. Pod systems offer the same ease of use as disposables but with improved quality and customization options. They are an excellent second step for those looking to transition toward more sustainable options, providing a higher-quality experience without the complexity of advanced mods.

Benefits for Beginners: Beginners often start with the most straightforward devices to learn the basics. A vape pod system can be a smart next move once they are comfortable with their e-cig or vape pen. It maintains the simplicity they appreciate while upgrading their overall vaping experience, offering better flavor and performance.

Advantages for Advanced Vapers: Advanced vapers might seek to simplify their vaping routine without sacrificing quality. High-powered box mods come with many settings and options, which can be fun but also cumbersome. A vape pod system offers the best of both worlds, delivering a hassle-free experience with high-quality results. It allows advanced vapers to enjoy a more straightforward device while still getting the performance they desire.

Authentic Experience for First-Time Vapers: For first-time vapers, vape pod systems provide an authentic, cigarette-like experience without the negative aspects of smoking, such as tar, ash, and smoke. They are user-friendly, with a popular draw-activated firing system that mimics the classic smoking experience, making it easy for newbies to get started.

So, you’ve decided to try a vape pod system for yourself, but you aren’t sure which one to buy. VaporFi offers many options from the vape brands you know and love. Each pod system we sell is chosen for its outstanding quality, innovative design, and excellent reviews.

To help you start weighing your options, here are four of our customers’ favorite vape pod systems:

1. SMOK Nord 4 Vape Pod Starter Kit:
   SMOK is an industry leader and a highly respected vape manufacturer — for a good reason! The Nord 4 Vape Pod Starter Kit is the perfect place to start your new vaping journey. Compact and constructed from durable zinc alloy, the Nord 4 outputs up to 80 watts of puffing power. This mod is the perfect combination of simplicity and quality.
2. Vaporesso XROS 4 Kit:
   Vaping is all about personal style. With the Vaporesso XROS 4 Kit, you can choose a vape as unique as you are. Available in a variety of flashy and sharp colorways, you’re sure to find an eye-catching look. This compact vape offers the premium Vaporesso experience and includes long-lasting 3ml pods to keep your sessions long and strong. This device is one of the best on the market.
3. Suorin Air Pro Starter Kit:
   Convenient, compact, and discreet. Vaping on the go has never been easier than with the Suorin Air Pro. Keep it simple and classy with this tremendously popular vape from industry legend Suorin. Featuring an all-in-one design with a 930 mAh internal battery and 4.9ml juice capacity, this device is ready to go anytime and anywhere!
4. Vaporesso LUXE PM40 Starter Kit:
   Harnessing the power of a Vaporesso mod has never been easier. The LUXE PM40 offers all of the premier features Vaporesso is known for, including 1800 mAh internal rechargeable battery, a max output of up to 40 watts, and intelligent operating modes. Its elegant design and single-button functionality make it easy to use, even for the beginner vaper. Experience the best of both worlds in just one vape mod!

Vape pod systems are an affordable, convenient way to enjoy a great vape session, regardless of your experience level or style. VaporFi offers a wide selection of vape pod systems, including top-quality options from brands like SMOK, Vaporesso, Wismec, Aspire, and more, with choices at all price points. We have pod systems in all shapes and styles, so you can find one to fit your vaping personality.

Is a pod system the right fit? Check out our other vape devices and learn about vaping on the VaporFi blog today. While you’re on our website, browse our giant collection of premium e-juice, which includes the option to get creative and design your own custom blends.