What Are Rechargeable E-Cigarettes?

Published June 24, 2024

This article is only for legal age (18+) smokers or nicotine product users only.

As its name suggests, a rechargeable e-cigarette is a type of electronic-cigarette - otherwise often known as a vape - that can typically be recharged. Usually, a rechargeable electronic-cigarette can also be refilled with e-liquid once the e-liquid within runs out. These types of rechargeable devices are generally designed to last longer than disposable e-cigarettes. However, the lifespan of a device depends on the exact product and brand.

How Does a Rechargeable E-Cigarette Work?

A rechargeable e-cigarette typically serves the same function as other vaping devices – by heating an e-liquid to produce a vapor. There are several different rechargeable e-cigarette types and designs. One common design is the wick and coil form of rechargeable vape. 

Below is a step-by-step guide on how some rechargeable e-cigs with a wick and coil work:

1. Power from the rechargeable battery typically heats the coil - The coil is a piece of conductive wire, usually made from stainless steel, that is often responsible for heating e-liquid.
2. The coil usually heats the wick - The wick is generally wrapped in a spiral coil . When a coil is primed properly, the wicking material should be moist with e-liquid to allow it to vaporize properly.
3. The wick and coil should vaporize the e-liquid - Once heated, the coil should vaporize the e-liquid - soaked up by the wick – to produce a vapor.
4. Vapor emits from the mouthpiece – Vapor should emit from the mouthpiece for the adult vaper’s consumption.

Once the vape runs out of charge, it will likely not work again until it is sufficiently recharged. It is worth checking manufacturer guidance for the device in use, then following the instructions accordingly. To recharge the device, you will likely need to plug it into a power outlet using the supplied charging cable and wait for it to charge up. When charging up a rechargeable e-cig, it is important to use a compatible charging kit, such as one provided with the vape or recommended by the manufacturer. This may help the e-cigarette charge safely, potentially preventing damage.

What are the Pros of rechargeable e-cigarettes?

There are several potential improvements to be gained from purchasing a rechargeable e-cigarette over other, non-rechargeable options, including the following:

• Longer lasting - Rechargeable electronic-cigarettes are usually built to last longer than other, non-rechargeable options (i.e., disposable e-cigs).
• A range of e-liquids – Rechargeable e-cigs can typically be refilled. Depending on the device and the manufacturer, legal age adult (18+) vapers may be able to explore a variety of different compatible e-liquids to use with their rechargeable e-cig.

What are the Cons of rechargeable e-cigarettes?

Rechargeable e-cigarette devices are an option for certain adult smokers and legal age adult (18+) vapers, but they may present drawbacks such as:

• They often initially cost more - Buying a rechargeable e-cigarette could cost more to begin with when compared to buying a disposable, non-rechargeable device.
• Usually requires more maintenance - More upkeep is typically required with a rechargeable e-cig compared to a non-rechargeable device. This could include charging, refilling the vape tank, and periodical coil care.

While it might take more technical know-how to use a rechargeable vape, learning about these devices and which ones work best for different preferences could enhance an adult (18+) vaper’s vaping experience.

Smoke-free products are not risk-free. Smoke-free products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.

Heated tobacco devices are another type of rechargeable device that adult smokers may wish to consider when switching from cigarettes. IQOS is a provider of heated tobacco devices. IQOS provides real tobacco taste and satisfaction but without the cigarette smoke smell and ash. Explore IQOS’ heated tobacco range. IQOS is not risk-free and provides nicotine, which is addictive.

Learn more: What is IQOS?

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Important Information: This product is not risk free and provides nicotine, which is addictive. Only for use by adults who would otherwise continue to smoke or use other nicotine products.

IQOS are only for adult smokers who otherwise wish to continue to use tobacco or nicotine containing products.

This article is for general information and educational purposes. Some of the information in this article is based on external, third-party sources and we make no representations or warranties of any kind regarding the accuracy, validity or completeness of such information.