What Is the Best Vape to Buy

What Is the Best Vape to Buy?

If you’re new to vaping or thinking about upgrading your current device, you’ve probably asked: what’s the best vape to buy? The answer depends entirely on what you need it for—whether you’re trying to quit smoking, enjoy big clouds, save money, or just want something discreet and simple. The best vape for someone else might not be the best vape for you.

There are several types of vape devices available in the UK, each designed for a different style of vaping. Understanding what’s out there—and how they compare—will help you choose the best option based on your goals, budget, and experience level.

Disposable Vapes: Best for Simplicity

If you want zero maintenance and instant use, disposable vapes are the simplest option. They come pre-filled and pre-charged—no buttons, no refilling, no charging. Once it runs out, you throw it away and start a new one. Popular for beginners or casual users, disposables like Lost Mary, Elf Bar, and SKE Crystal Bar are widely available and easy to use.

That said, they’re expensive in the long run and not ideal if you’re vaping regularly. You also don’t get much control over nicotine strength, flavour options beyond what’s available, or device performance. Disposables are best suited for occasional users or those trying vaping for the first time before committing to a proper kit.

Pod Systems: Best for Convenience and Portability

Pod systems are compact, user-friendly, and ideal for new vapers or smokers switching to e-cigarettes. They use either pre-filled pods or refillable pods and offer a more cost-effective solution than disposables. Most are draw-activated, with no buttons to press, and small enough to carry in a pocket.

Popular brands like Vaporesso XROS, Uwell Caliburn, and OXVA Xlim provide excellent flavour, long battery life, and refillable pod options. They’re ideal for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping, which closely mimics the sensation of smoking. For most people quitting cigarettes, a pod system is often the best vape to start with.

Vape Pens: Best for Balance of Power and Simplicity

Vape pens are a step up from pods, offering more battery life and power without overwhelming complexity. They usually come with a tank and replaceable coil, giving you more flavour and vapour, and more flexibility over the type of e-liquid you use. Vape pens are suitable for both MTL and restricted direct-to-lung (RDL) vaping, depending on the coil and airflow setup.

Devices like the Innokin Endura T18 or Aspire PockeX are excellent entry-level vape pens for beginners, while more advanced options like the GeekVape Wenax series appeal to those who want better performance without going full sub-ohm.

Box Mods: Best for Customisation and Cloud Chasing

If you’re after big clouds, powerful hits, and full control over your vape, a box mod or sub-ohm kit is the best choice. These devices come with variable wattage, large tanks, and low-resistance coils for direct-to-lung (DTL) vaping. You can fine-tune power, temperature, and airflow to suit your preferences—and explore a wide range of e-liquids, especially those with low nicotine and high VG.

Popular models include the Vaporesso Gen series, GeekVape Aegis, and Voopoo Drag. These kits require more maintenance and knowledge, so they’re better for experienced vapers or those upgrading from simpler systems.

Think About Your Nicotine Needs

Before picking a device, it helps to know what kind of nicotine delivery you need. If you're a heavy smoker, a vape that supports higher-nicotine liquids—like a pod system using nicotine salts—might suit you better. These deliver a strong hit with less vapour, ideal for curbing cravings without needing to vape constantly. On the other hand, if you're a light or social smoker, a lower-strength e-liquid in a simple refillable pen might be enough.

Sub-ohm kits (DTL devices) work best with low-nicotine liquids, typically between 0.3% and 0.6% strength. Using high-nicotine e-liquid in a powerful device can feel harsh and unpleasant, so matching your device to your nicotine intake is essential.

Match Your Device to Your E-Liquid

Not all vapes are compatible with every type of e-liquid. High-PG (propylene glycol) e-liquids are best suited for lower-powered MTL devices like pods and pens. They offer a sharper throat hit and better nicotine absorption with less vapour. High-VG (vegetable glycerine) liquids, which are thicker and smoother, work better in sub-ohm tanks and high-wattage kits for big clouds and flavour.

Choosing a device that works with your preferred e-liquid type avoids leaks, burnt coils, and wasted money. If you're not sure where to start, many vape shops can advise on a good match between device and liquid.

Battery Life and Charging Options

Another key factor when choosing a vape is battery life. Disposable vapes and smaller pod kits may need charging once or even twice a day, depending on usage. If you're out and about or don't want the hassle of frequent charging, look for devices with larger built-in batteries (over 1000mAh) or ones that support USB-C fast charging.

Some advanced kits also use removable 18650 batteries, which are ideal for heavy users—but they require an external charger and a bit more know-how. For casual or new vapers, a reliable built-in battery is often the better choice.

Price vs Performance

It’s tempting to go for the cheapest option, but the best vape isn’t always the cheapest one—it’s the one that performs well consistently without hassle. Spending a little more on a reputable brand often means better build quality, longer coil life, and fewer issues like leaks or malfunctions. If a device is unusually cheap, especially online, it could be a clone or an outdated model not compliant with UK regulations.

It’s also worth noting that higher upfront cost often means lower running costs over time, especially when switching from disposables to refillable pod or tank systems.

Where You Buy Matters

Always buy from trusted UK retailers or official brand websites. This ensures your vape is TPD-compliant—meaning it follows legal limits for tank size, nicotine strength, and child-resistant packaging. Cheap imports or off-brand devices may not meet these standards and can pose safety or legal risks. A reputable shop can also offer support, guidance, and access to genuine replacement parts, which is especially helpful if you're just starting out.

Final Word

The best vape to buy depends on what matters most to you. For simplicity, go with a disposable. For affordability and ease of use, try a pod system. If you want more performance and customisation, look into a vape pen or box mod. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution—just the right vape for the way you want to use it. Knowing your vaping goals and experience level makes it easier to choose a device that fits your lifestyle.