A guide to vaping for beginners

Welcome to the world of vaping. If you're new to vaping, understanding the different types of devices, vaping styles and essential terminology can make choosing a suitable device much easier. This beginner's guide explains the main components of modern vape kits and the differences between MTL and DTL vaping.

Parts of a Vaping Device

Modern vape devices can vary considerably in design, but most reusable kits contain several key components. These may include a rechargeable battery, pod or tank, coil, mouthpiece and airflow system. Understanding what each part does can help you use your device correctly and identify when a replacement component is needed.

Different Types of Vape Kits

There are several types of reusable vape kits available, ranging from compact pod systems to more advanced mod-and-tank setups. The right choice depends on factors such as device size, battery capacity, vaping style, e-liquid compatibility and how much control you want over the experience.

Vape Pens

Vape pens are compact rechargeable devices that sit between simple pod systems and larger advanced kits. They are generally straightforward to operate and can provide a convenient option for adult vapers who prefer a familiar pen-style design.

Depending on the model, vape pens may use refillable tanks or replaceable pods and can support different coil resistances and e-liquid ratios. Always check the manufacturer's specifications to ensure that the chosen e-liquid and coil are compatible with the device.

Pod Kits

Pod kits have become a popular alternative to older vape designs because of their compact size and straightforward operation. They use a removable pod instead of a traditional tank, with some models using prefilled pods and others allowing the user to refill the pod with compatible e-liquid.

Many pod systems are designed for MTL vaping and work well with lower-powered coils. Some more powerful pod devices can also support a more open airflow and higher-power vaping styles, giving experienced adult users greater flexibility.

Mod and Tank Kits

Mod-and-tank kits are larger devices designed for users who want greater control over their vaping setup. Depending on the model, they can offer adjustable wattage, temperature control, airflow adjustment and interchangeable coils.

These devices can support different vaping styles and e-liquid types, but they generally require more knowledge and maintenance than compact pod kits. Users should always follow the manufacturer's recommended wattage range and coil specifications.

RTA and RDA Tanks

RTA and RDA devices are rebuildable atomisers intended for experienced users. An RTA, or Rebuildable Tank Atomiser, includes a tank that holds e-liquid, while an RDA, or Rebuildable Dripping Atomiser, requires e-liquid to be added directly to the build deck or wick.

Because these systems involve building and installing coils, they require a good understanding of resistance, battery safety and correct device operation. They are therefore better suited to experienced adult vapers rather than beginners.

Mechanical Mods

Mechanical mods are unregulated devices that do not use the electronic protections found in regulated vape kits. They deliver power directly from the battery to the atomiser and therefore require a strong understanding of battery safety, resistance and Ohm's law.

Mechanical mods are not recommended for beginners. Anyone using replaceable batteries should follow the battery manufacturer's safety instructions and use only compatible batteries and equipment.

MTL: Mouth-to-Lung Vaping

Mouth-to-lung, commonly shortened to MTL, describes a vaping style where vapour is first drawn into the mouth before being inhaled into the lungs. This style generally uses a tighter airflow and lower power output, producing a more restricted draw.

Compact pod systems and many vape pens are designed around MTL vaping. Devices with this style of airflow can be suitable for adult vapers who prefer a more restricted draw and lower vapour production.

DTL: Direct-to-Lung Vaping

Direct-to-lung, or DTL, involves inhaling vapour directly into the lungs. DTL devices generally use more open airflow, higher power and coils designed to produce greater vapour volumes.

DTL vaping is generally associated with more powerful pod systems and mod-and-tank kits. These devices can require more e-liquid and battery power than lower-powered MTL systems, so they are better suited to experienced adult users who understand how their equipment works.

E-Liquid

E-liquid is the liquid used in compatible vape devices to produce vapour. Depending on the product, it can contain nicotine, flavourings, propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerine (VG).

Different devices work best with different e-liquid formulations. Lower-powered MTL pod systems commonly use thinner e-liquids, while higher-powered devices may be designed for e-liquids with a higher VG content. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations before using an e-liquid in your device.

How to Choose a Vape Kit

When choosing a vape kit, consider how simple you want the device to be, the amount of vapour you prefer, your desired vaping style and whether you want prefilled or refillable pods. Battery capacity is another important consideration, particularly if you use your device regularly.

Beginners should generally look for a straightforward, regulated device with clear operating instructions and readily available compatible pods or coils. More advanced equipment can provide additional control but may require greater knowledge and maintenance.

Understanding Vape Maintenance

Looking after a reusable vape kit can help maintain its performance. Keep the device and charging port clean and dry, replace worn coils or pods when necessary, and use only compatible charging equipment. If a rechargeable battery or device becomes damaged, unusually hot or shows signs of failure, stop using it and follow the manufacturer's safety guidance.