Disposable vs Refillable Vape: What Are the Differences?

Published June 28, 2024

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

Disposable vs refillable vapes - wondering which is the right choice? With so many different types of vape devices on the market today, it can be a bit confusing for an adult (18+) user to select the device for your desired vaping experience.

Generally, vape devices fall into two main categories: disposable and refillable or rechargeable vapes. The infographic below shows what both devices may look like, and lists certain components of them:

Disposable vape components: 1.        Mouthpiece. 2.        E-liquid and battery.   Refillable box mod vape components: 1.        Mouthpiece. 2.        E-liquid tank. 3.        Atomizer. 4.        On/off button. 5.        Display screen. 6.        Battery compartment. 7.        Adjustable wattage settings. 8.        Charging port. While the above shows the components that may come with either a disposable or refillable vape, exactly what these devices will comprise of may vary from product to product.

Disposable vape components:

1. Mouthpiece.
2. E-liquid and battery.

Refillable box mod vape components:

1. Mouthpiece.
2. E-liquid tank.
3. Atomizer.
4. On/off button.
5. Display screen.
6. Battery compartment.
7. Adjustable wattage settings.
8. Charging port.

While the above shows the components that may come with either a disposable or refillable vape, exactly what these devices will comprise of may vary from product to product.

What’s good to know though is that disposable and rechargeable vapes function in similar ways. Depending on what you’re searching for in your vaping experience, either one or both could be a suitable option. 

Disposable vs Rechargeable Vapes

To truly understand which device is the best option for you, it’s important to know what each type of device contains.

Disposable vapes are typically devices that cannot be recharged and/or refilled. Most times, disposable vapes come pre-charged as well as pre-filled with e-liquid. When the e-liquid or battery runs out, disposable vapes need to be properly disposed of.

Functioning in a similar way to rechargeable vapes, disposable vapes heat e-liquid to produce vapor instead of smoke.

When it comes to a disposable vape vs regular vape or rechargeable vape, some other noteworthy benefits include their typically simple, low maintenance design. If you’re interested in exploring more about disposable vapes, take a look at our article ‘What Are Disposable E-cigarettes?’.

On the other hand, once the e-liquid has run out on rechargeable vapes, you should be able to refill and continue using the device.

Take note that depending on the type of rechargeable device, you may be able to use a variety of different e-liquids - provided that the e-liquid is compatible with the appropriate vape coil and vape wattage.

Why Use Disposable Vapes Over Rechargeable Vapes?

Here are a couple reasons why you may prefer to use disposable vapes instead of rechargeable vapes.

As an adult (18+) user who would otherwise continue to smoke, you may find that disposable vapes are a good way to test whether you prefer vaping or not before purchasing a more long-term, rechargeable device.

You may also come to find that disposable vapes are potentially simpler to use in comparison to rechargeable vapes. This could be because disposable vapes won’t usually require timely coil maintenance, recharging or refilling of an e-liquid.

Why Use Rechargeable Vapes Over Disposable Vapes?

There are several reasons why an adult (18+) user may prefer using a rechargeable vape instead of a disposable one.

Rechargeable vapes usually last longer than disposable vapes. These devices may also offer more variety in what e-liquid adult vapers can use for their desired vaping experience.

You might also find that there’s more variety when browsing rechargeable vapes. Some of the most popular types of rechargeable vapes include Vape Mods, Pod Systems and Vape Pens. All these types of rechargeable devices offer adult users unique experiences - arguably making it easier for you to find a more suitable vape.

Learn more: What are the Vape Kits for adult smokers?

Disposable vs Refillable Vape - What’s Right for Me?

When it comes down to which device - it’s all up to you.

Disposable and rechargeable vapes offer adult (18+) users different experiences - meaning whichever is classified as being more suited to you is simply a matter of personal preference. If you’re an adult (18+) user trying to make an informed choice, consider the differences as well as the pros and cons outlined in this article.

With so many disposable and rechargeable vapes available to you, finding the right one depends on your personality and desired vaping experience. The most important thing is to ensure that your device is legal and adheres to all relevant safety regulations because illegal and/or fake vapes, unfortunately, do exist. 

Smoke-free 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. Smoke-free 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.