What Are the Different Types of Vape Coils?

Vaping 10/11/2023

When it comes to wick and coil devices, the internal coil is usually an important part that should not be overlooked. There are various types of vape coils according to the manufacturer and brand, and each type often has a different impact on a vaping experience. Otherwise known as the atomizer’s head, the coil is a small yet effective piece of wire which takes on a lot of responsibility in a lot of vapes. For many adult (18+) smokers or vapers, the variety of vape coil types might seem confusing, so it is important to understand that they all generally serve the same purpose.

What Do Vape Coils Do?

Vapes, or e-cigarettes, produce vapor instead of smoke. They typically achieve this by heating and consequently vaporizing an e-liquid solution. Usually, the coil of a vape is partially responsible for this process, making it an important part of many vape devices. When activated, the battery in these vapes should power the atomizer containing the coil. When this happens, the coil will typically heat to a controlled temperature which, through the device’s wick, warms and then vaporizes the e-liquid.

While they all tend to work in the same way, the different types of vape coils each have a unique impact on a vaping experience. That is because they are not only made from different materials, but they also come in different forms and sizes too.

Types of Vape Coils

When it comes to coils, there are plenty of ways to categorize them. The material is often an important factor, but it is not the only variable - coils may come in different shapes and sizes, and even in multiples.

1. Dual Coils

Dual coils generally vaporize e-liquid quicker than a single, or core coil variant. A greater number of coils may result in faster vaporization. Triple and even quadruple coils are also available, and they are likely to speed up the vaporization process accordingly. This will of course depend on the product type and the brand.

2. Multiple Coils

While swift vaporization might seem appealing at first, multiple coils typically go through batteries and e-liquid quicker. This means personal preference could be important in determining if an adult vaper should use a single or multiple coils.

3. Mesh Coils

Mesh coils are another example of a different type of vape coil because they commonly don't use the shape and style of a traditional round wire. These modern coils typically have more surface area to vaporize e-liquid, generally speeding up the vaporization process without putting additional strain on the battery and e-liquid.

Every vape coil type has its own unique impact on a vaping experience, depending on factors such as the shape, size, number of coils, and material. When it comes to materials, vape coils are often crafted from one of several metals.

  • Kanthal Coils - a combination of iron, chromium and aluminum, they usually heat up quickly. The result is often quicker vaporization but at the potential cost of greater reliance on the battery and faster e-liquid depletion.
  • Stainless Steel Coils - these coils come in different grades of steel. They may featureincreased durability. No matter the grade, a stainless-steel coil is likely to last longer than its counterparts, but this depends on the exact coil and brand.
  • Nichrome Coils - generally a blend of around 20% nickel and 80% chromium, these coils typically heat up rapidly, which often provides quicker vaporization. Nichrome coils might help to prevent oxidation - an unfortunate issue in some vapes where e-liquid becomes discolored and foul-tasting.
  • Titanium Coils - soft and malleable, they usually possess the ability to provide a potentially better performing vape.
  • Ceramic Coils - these are porous coils which may provide a more flavorful experience, but this depends on personal preference. They may be able to tolerate high wattages and the ceramic design tends to boost longevity while possibly helping to prevent oxidation.

Which Vaping Coil Type Is Right?

There is no single answer to this question.

There are plenty of options, and the right vape coil for one adult vaper is not guaranteed to be right for another. If you are an adult smoker switching from cigarettes, you may want to identify key preferences. Whether it is flavor, convenience, or less maintenance, it is worth identifying the number one priority in a vape device. This information could be crucial in finding the right vaping coil.

Resistance is also important when it comes to vaping, and you can learn more with our guide and vape wattage calculator. To give a brief overview - certain coils are usually required for higher or lower resistance vaping, depending on the preference. Lower resistance coils may use less e-liquid which might be useful for those looking to make theirs last. On the other hand, coils with a higher resistance often use more e-liquid. Coils with a higher resistance usually provide for a particular style of vaping known as Sub-Ohm vaping.

Keep in mind that coils will generally, and no matter the type, need to be replaced over time. Generally, the length of time varies depending partially on how much the device is used, and the type of coil. It is recommended to change a device’s coil with a like for like replacement. Device modification may have unintended consequences on a vape. Always follow manufacturer guidance according to your device.

Innovative IQOS Heated Tobacco

Heated tobacco is a smoke-free option for adult smokers switching from cigarettes, especially those who would prefer a device without a coil. IQOS devices utilize heat-not-burn technology to heat authentic tobacco, instead of burning it. IQOS features heated tobacco innovation - explore the technology behind IQOS.

IQOS products are not risk-free and provide nicotine, which is addictive. The best decision any adult smoker can make is to quit tobacco and nicotine use altogether. IQOS products are not alternatives to quitting and are not designed as cessation aids.

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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. 

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