What Is the Difference Between Vape Mods and Pod Kits?

Embarking on the vaping world involves understanding the diverse landscape of devices available. Vape mods, short for modifications, serve as a pivotal element in vaping setups, encompassing the battery, chipset, and customisable features for an advanced vaping experience. 

These mods and pod kits stand out for their centralising components, offering control over wattage, temperature, and coil resistance, thus tailoring the experience for users of different skill levels. Known for their higher power output, vape mods cater to enthusiasts seeking substantial vapour clouds, particularly in "cloud chasing." 

What Are Vape Mods?

Vape mods, short for modifications, are a crucial component of vaping devices, housing the battery, chipset, and various features that provide users with enhanced control over their vaping experience. These devices are generally more advanced than other vape kits and accommodate vapers of varying experience levels.

One of the critical functions of a vape mod is to centralise essential elements such as the battery and chipset. This design allows users to access and customise features like wattage, temperature, and coil resistance, providing a more tailored vaping experience.

In terms of power output, vape mods are renowned for their ability to deliver higher power compared to other vaping systems, particularly pod systems. This higher power capability contributes to increased vapour production, making mods a preferred choice for individuals who enjoy "cloud chasing" and desire substantial vapour clouds during their vaping sessions.

What Are Vape Pod Kits?

Traditionally, vaping devices consisted of a tank to hold e-liquid, an atomiser to heat the liquid, and a mod to power the device. However, pod kits have revolutionised this design by incorporating a more streamlined and ergonomic structure. The key distinction lies in the configuration of the tank, or pod, which attaches seamlessly to the mod, resulting in a more cohesive and lightweight device.

Pod kits have become known for their practicality and ease of use. The elimination of heavy power requirements allows manufacturers to reduce the size of the mod and its internal battery, creating a notably smaller and more discreet device. This design shift has particularly appealed to casual vapers who prefer a lighter, more portable option.

These kits are available in various forms, including replaceable pods and closed-pod systems. In a closed-pod system, the entire pod, including the coil, is disposed of when it reaches the end of its practical life, and you insert a new pod. On the other hand, replaceable pods allow users to change only the coil, retaining the pod itself. Many pods are refillable, allowing users to choose their preferred e-liquid.

Pod kits are recognised for their versatility, accommodating many e-liquids. Their higher coil resistance makes them suitable for e-liquids with a higher proportion of PG (propylene glycol) to VG (vegetable glycerin). This versatility enables vapers to use classic or starter e-liquids with a balanced PG/VG ratio, providing a satisfying throat hit and rich flavour.

Selecting the Ideal Vaping Device: User Types and Key Considerations

New Vaper

Device Type

Opt for a beginner-friendly device. Pod systems, which are compact and often button-free, are excellent choices for new vapers due to their simplicity.

Avoid overly complex setups such as advanced mods, which may have multiple settings and features that overwhelm beginners.

User Interface

Look for vape devices with straightforward user interfaces. A simple one-button operation or draw-activated mechanism can be more user-friendly for beginners. Avoid devices with intricate menus or settings that may require a learning curve.

Maintenance and Refilling

Consider devices with easy-to-use features for maintenance and e-liquid refilling. Top-fill systems and replaceable coils can simplify these processes. Avoid devices with intricate disassembly or complex coil replacement procedures that might be challenging for beginners.

Portability and Size

Choose a device that suits your lifestyle. If portability is crucial, consider compact and lightweight options like pod systems that are easy to carry around. Avoid large and cumbersome devices if you prioritise on-the-go convenience.

Battery Life and Charging

Assess battery life and charging options. Devices with longer battery life and quick charging capabilities can provide a more consistent vaping experience. Avoid devices with limited battery capacity if you prefer less frequent charging.

Experienced Vapers and Cloud Chasers

Power and Wattage

Vape mods with adjustable wattage settings allow you to control the intensity of your vaping experience. Consider sub-ohm vaping, which involves coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohms, for increased vapour production.

Coil Options and Rebuildables

Choose devices that support a variety of coil options. This flexibility enables you to explore different resistances and materials, affecting flavour and vapour production.

Explore rebuildable atomisers (RBAs) or rebuildable drip atomisers (RDAs) for a more hands-on approach, allowing you to build and install your coils.

Airflow Control

Look for devices with adjustable airflow settings. Fine-tuning the airflow can significantly impact vapour density and flavour. Avoid devices with limited or non-adjustable airflow if you prioritise a customised airflow experience.

Temperature Control

Consider devices with temperature control features if you want precise control over the temperature of your coils. This feature can prevent dry hits and enhance the longevity of your coils. Experiment with different temperature settings to find the optimal balance for your preferred vaping experience.

Battery Capacity and Type

Opt for devices with larger battery capacities, especially if you engage in extended vaping sessions. This capacity minimises the need for frequent recharging. Explore devices with removable batteries for the option to swap out batteries, ensuring uninterrupted vaping.

Tank Capacity

Choose tanks with larger e-liquid capacities to reduce the frequency of refills, especially during extended vaping sessions. Consider devices with top-fill systems for convenient and mess-free refilling.

Sub-Ohm Vapers

Device Compatibility

These devices often feature lower-resistance coils and higher wattage capabilities. Ensure the mod or pod mod you select is compatible with Sub-Ohm coils to achieve the desired vapour production.

Coil Resistance

Opt for coils with a resistance below 1.0 ohms. Sub-Ohm coils allow higher power levels, producingmore significant vapour clouds and intense flavour. 

Wattage Range

Select a device with a variable wattage or power setting that accommodates Sub-Ohm coils. Consider devices with higher wattage capabilities to fully harness the potential of Sub-Ohm coils for impressive vapour clouds.

Temperature Control

Some Sub-Ohm devices offer temperature control features. While not a strict requirement, it can prevent dry hits and optimise coil performance. 

Tank Size

Choose tanks with larger e-liquid capacities to minimise the need for frequent refills, especially during extended Sub-Ohm vaping sessions. 

How To Choose the Ideal E-Liquid for Your Vape Pods and Mods

Nic Salts

Nicotine salts, known as nic salts, represent an alternative form of e-liquid that employs a different type of nicotine. This results in a smoother throat hit and faster nicotine absorption compared to traditional freebase nicotine. Vape pods, especially those designed for higher nicotine concentrations, are well-suited for nicotine salts. 

Another important consideration is the VG/PG ratio in your e-liquid, as it significantly influences your overall vaping experience. VG (Vegetable Glycerin) and PG (Propylene Glycol) are the two primary components of e-liquids, each contributing unique characteristics to the vaping experience.

In the case of high PG e-liquids, often referred to as "classic" or "starter" e-liquids, they have been a staple since the early days of vaping. These liquids offer a balanced ratio that provides a satisfying throat hit, reminiscent of traditional smoking, without harmful chemicals. With a 50:50 VG/PG ratio, these e-liquids strike the optimum balance for vapers, delivering maximum flavour and a satisfying throat hit.

High VG e-liquids are suitable for mods, especially those with higher power outputs. VG produces more decadent, denser clouds with a smoother throat sensation, making them ideal for vapers prioritising cloud production. With their higher power outputs, mods can handle lower resistance coils often associated with high VG e-liquids, producing enhanced vapour.

Freebase Nicotine E-Liquids

Choosing the right e-liquid, especially when considering Freebase Nicotine E-Liquids, is a critical aspect of ensuring a satisfying vaping experience, regardless of whether you're using pods or mods. 

Freebase nicotine e-liquids come in various strengths, typically ranging from 0mg/mL (nicotine-free) to 18mg/mL or higher. It's essential to consider your nicotine tolerance and preferences when choosing the appropriate strength. For new vapers or those transitioning from smoking, starting with lower nicotine strengths (e.g., 3mg/mL or 6mg/mL) is recommended, while experienced vapers may opt for higher strengths.

Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) are the two main components of e-liquids, and their ratio can impact the vaping experience. Freebase nicotine e-liquids often have varying PG/VG ratios. Higher PG ratios provide a stronger throat hit and more flavour, making them suitable for those who prefer a sensation closer to smoking. On the other hand, higher VG ratios produce denser clouds and a smoother throat hit, ideal for cloud chasers and those who prioritise vapour production over throat hits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Mod or a Vape Better?

The choice between a mod and a vape depends on personal preferences and vaping goals. Vape pods are beginner-friendly, portable, and convenient. Mods offer more customisation and power and are suitable for experienced vapers. Beginners often start with pods, while more advanced users gravitate towards mods for a tailored experience.

What Is the Difference Between a Vape and a Vape Kit?

A "vape" generally refers to the entire electronic cigarette or vaping device, while a "vape kit" specifically includes essential components like the device, tank, coils, and charging cable. The kit is a comprehensive package designed to provide users with everything needed to start vaping right away.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the realm of vaping devices involves understanding the fundamental disparities between vape mods and pod kits. With their advanced capabilities and higher power outputs, Vape mods cater to enthusiasts seeking a customised experience, particularly those interested in "cloud chasing." 

On the other hand, vape pod kits have revolutionised simplicity, offering a user-friendly and portable solution ideal for beginners or those desiring a discreet vaping experience. The diverse needs of vapers, whether new, experienced, or enthusiasts, are addressed through a comprehensive exploration of device types and critical considerations, emphasising the importance of tailoring choices to individual preferences. 

Shop RELX vapes to address your vaping needs today.