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If you already smoke and want an alternative that feels familiar while reducing the harms linked to burning tobacco, the first device you choose can make a huge difference in how easily you adapt. Many people who try to quit smoking with vaping are not successful at first because they pick a device that does not match their needs.
A frequent mistake is assuming that more power equals a stronger hit. Heavy smokers in particular sometimes feel drawn to powerful sub-ohm kits because they look advanced and impressive. The problem is that sub-ohm devices use low-nicotine liquids, so the result is plenty of vapour but very little satisfaction. This leads to more frustration than progress. Starting with the right kit helps you get the nicotine delivery and throat hit you are used to, which is essential for a smooth transition. There are a number of starter options such as prefilled pod kits and refillable pod kits which will give you a similar feel to smoking and avoid unnecessary complications when you are starting out.
So, What Are Your Best Options?
1. Big Puff Prefilled Pod Kits
These long-lasting prefilled pod systems are simple and give a tight, cigarette-like draw. Big Puff Pod Kits get their name from the fact that they have containers that carry more e-liquid than a standard pod kit. This means that you get a bigger number of puffs before needing to replace the pod.
Why they help:
- No refilling or settings to adjust
- Consistent throat hit
- Ideal for an effortless start
They come pre-loaded with nicotine salt e-liquid, with some options containing up to 24ml of nic salt e-liquid in the pod, meaning you can get up to 2 weeks use before needing to change the pod. Most commonly they come in 20mg nicotine strength, offering rapid nicotine satisfaction, hugely minimising the feeling of needing a cigarette.
2. Regular Prefilled Pod Kits
These use compact batteries with small pods that click in when a refill is needed. Regular prefilled pod kits use a 2ml size pod which typically will give you 1 to 2 days use before you need to switch the pod.
Why they help:
- Very convenient and portable
- Simple to operate
- Reliable, smooth nicotine delivery
These vape kits also come pre-filled with nic salt e-liquid, again, most commonly in 20mg for instant nicotine satisfaction. Whilst they contain much less e-liquid than a big puff, they have the advantage that they are much more compact and light weight, making them a great discreet option.
Refillable Pod Kits
These come with small refillable pods or tanks you fill yourself. Refillable pod kits feature the same 2ml size of pod as a standard prefilled pod vape, but instead of being prefilled with e-liquid, the pod is empty and can be refilled. This allows you to choose any flavour and strength of e-liquid that you choose, giving you great flexibility in your choice of flavours
Why they help:
- More flavour and strength options
- Lower long-term cost
- Simple, but with extra control compared to prefilled pods
Whilst they don’t come pre-filled with e-liquid, they are perfectly compatible with Nic Salts. Available in strengths from 5-20mg, they allow users to cut their nicotine intake over time. Typically you can refill the pod 7 - 10 times before needing to replace it.
When to Move Towards Pod Mods
Once comfortable with a pod kit, some people step up to pod mods. These can switch between mouth-to-lung and direct-to-lung styles. The pod size remains at 2ml, but you get additional features such as adjustable power and airflow, which allows you to customise your vaping experience.
Why consider them:
- Adjustable airflow and power
- Great for people reducing nicotine gradually
- Smoother, fuller vapour
They’re still manageable for beginners while offering better performance and compatibility with lower nicotine e-liquids such as shortfills. Typically you will also get a larger battery with a Pod Mod style vape, giving you both more power to deliver bolder flavours as well as longer battery life between charges.
Advanced Kits and Sub-Ohm Devices
Sub-ohm kits focus on direct-to-lung inhaling and dense vapour. They’re usually for people who have already lowered their nicotine level significantly or enjoy vaping as a hobby. They are not recommended for people who don’t smoke, and are not necessary for someone who just wants a straightforward alternative to cigarettes.
