BEST E-CIGARETTE: TOP VAPE DEVICES FOR THE ULTIMATE VAPING EXPERIENCE!

Best Vape

When it comes to finding the best vape, it’s all about matching your personal preferences with the right device from the overwhelming variety of options available. The best vape kit delivers a satisfying experience, whether you prioritise flavour, vapour production, portability, or ease of use. For beginners, a top-rated starter kit might be ideal, offering simplicity and reliability. Meanwhile, experienced vapers might prefer advanced vape mods or pod systems that provide greater control and customisation. Ultimately, the best vape is the one that aligns with your needs, lifestyle, and vaping goals, ensuring an enjoyable and tailored experience.

What is Vaping?

Vaping is the act of inhaling vapour produced by an electronic device, commonly known as a vape or e-cigarette, that are available in a wide range of styles. These devices include e-cigs, vape kits, and pod kits, which vary in size, design, and functionality. Unlike traditional smoking, which involves burning tobacco, vaping heats a liquid called e-liquid or vape juice to create vapour. This e-liquid typically contains a mixture of propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerine (VG), authentic flavours, and nicotine. Vaping offers an alternative to smoking by simulating the experience without the harmful combustion byproducts of cigarettes. It’s popular among those looking to quit smoking or simply enjoy the selection of flavours and customisable experiences that vaping provides.

What is Vape Juice?

Vape juice, also known as e-liquid or e-juice, is the liquid used in vaping devices to produce vapour. It typically consists of four main ingredients: propylene glycol (PG), vegetable glycerin (VG), flavourings, and nicotine, though nicotine-free options are also available. The PG provides a stronger throat hit, similar to smoking, while VG is responsible for producing thicker clouds of vapour. Vape brands offer a wide range of e-liquid with amazing flavour, from fruity and dessert flavours to tobacco flavours. The nicotine content can vary, allowing users to choose the nicotine strength that best suits their needs, making vape liquids a key element in customising the vaping experience. 

Vape juice is typically available in 10ml bottles, but some devices use pre-filled refills that provide a new coil in each refill, and there are nicotine-free e-liquids that are known as shortfills that come in larger bottles that allow vapers to add nicotine shots to tailor the nicotine strength in their e-liquid. 

What is a Vape Kit?

A vape kit is a battery-operated device designed to create vapour by heating a flavoured liquid, commonly known as e-liquid or vape juice. This innovative alternative to traditional tobacco cigarettes offers a safer and more convenient way to enjoy nicotine. Typically, a vape kit consists of three main components: a battery, a coil, and a pod or tank. These parts work in harmony to heat and vaporise the e-liquid, producing a satisfying vapour that can be inhaled. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced vaper, choosing the right vape kit can significantly enhance your vaping experience, providing a tailored and enjoyable way to indulge in your favourite e-liquid flavours.

What Types of Vapes Are There?

There are many different types of vape kits available, each catering to different preferences and experience levels, but all E cig kits are known for their significant reduction in harm compared to traditional cigarettes, making them a safer alternative.

The most basic are cig-a-likes, which resemble traditional cigarettes and are ideal for beginners seeking simplicity. Vape pens offer more power and customisation, utilising refillable tanks and other adjustable features. Pod systems are compact, user-friendly devices that use pre-filled or refillable pods, making them popular for their convenience and stealthiness. Vape mods are advanced vape kits with a range of features that allow extensive control over power, temperature, and coil resistance, appealing to experienced vapers. Lastly, mechanical mods are unregulated devices that require a deep understanding of vaping mechanics, offering the most customisation for hobbyists. Each type of vape offers a unique experience, allowing users to find the perfect fit for their vaping style.

What are the inhale styles for vaping?

In vaping, the inhale styles primarily include mouth-to-lung (MTL) and direct-to-lung (DTL) techniques, each offering a distinct experience. . Mouth-to-lung vape kits are used by drawing vapour into the mouth first before inhaling it into the lungs, mimicking the sensation of smoking a traditional cigarette. This method generally requires a tighter airflow and works well with higher nicotine strengths and higher PG (propylene glycol) e-liquids. On the other hand, direct-to-lung involves inhaling the vapor directly from the device into the lungs in one smooth motion, producing larger vapour clouds and a more intense flavour experience. This style typically pairs with devices that have a looser airflow and higher VG (vegetable glycerine) e-liquids, which produce dense clouds of vapour, but experienced vapers may use nicotine salt e-liquids to vape higher nicotine strengths because of the smoother inhale compared with freebase nicotine liquids. Choosing the right inhale style depends on personal preference and the type of vaping device used, as each style affects the overall satisfaction and enjoyment of the vaping experience.

What is mouth to lung vaping?

Mouth to lung devices, or 'MTL' vapes, are designed to mimic the traditional smoking experience by requiring users to draw vapour into their mouths before inhaling it into their lungs. These devices typically have a range of features including airflow control, which can create a more restricted draw similar to that of a cigarette. MTL vape devices are popular among smokers transitioning to vaping due to their ability to deliver a satisfying throat hit and enhance the amazing flavour of the e-liquid. Common types of mouth to lung devices include the cigalike style vape, compact pod systems, vape pens with adjustable airflow, and some rebuildable atomizers. Mouth to lung vapers typically choose higher nicotine concentrations and higher PG (propylene glycol) e-liquids, which offer a stronger throat hit and a more cigarette-like experience.

What are direct lung vape devices?

Direct lung vape kits, or 'DL' vape kits, are advanced vape kits designed to deliver a smooth, powerful vaping experience by allowing users to inhale vapour directly into their lungs in one continuous draw. These advanced vape kits typically feature a wide-open airflow and larger coil setups to produce dense, flavourful clouds of vapour. Popular types of direct lung devices include sub-ohm tanks and advanced box mods, which can handle low-resistance coils and high VG (vegetable glycerine) e-liquids that produce thick vapour. These devices favour e-liquids with a lower nicotine strength, or nicotine salt vape juice that provides a smoother inhale compared to freebase nicotine liquids. Unlike mouth-to-lung devices, which require a tighter airflow and smaller coils, direct lung devices focus on maximising vapour production and flavour intensity. They are ideal for vapers who enjoy large cloud sizes and a more intense flavour profile, offering a high-performance vaping experience that emphasises volume and smoothness.

What's the Best Vape Starter Kit?

The best vape starter kits are designed to offer simplicity, reliability, a long lasting battery and ease of use for newcomers to vaping. A good starting point for beginners includes options like pod kits and the prefilled options like cigalikes, which are known for their ease of use and minimal maintenance.

These kits typically include a user-friendly device, a pre-filled or easy-to-fill tank, and all necessary accessories to get started. Among the top choices are the SMOKO VAPE POD, an accessible vape known for its slender design and ease of use, and the Voopoo Drag X Plus, which offers variable wattage and a sleek design. The Juul Starter Kit remains popular for its simplicity and convenient pod system, ideal for those seeking a straightforward transition from smoking. Another excellent option is the Vaporesso XROS, which combines portability with customisable settings, making it a versatile choice for beginners. These starter kits are praised for their ease of use, providing a hassle-free introduction to vaping with minimal setup and maintenance.

For smokers, a cigalike style vape, like the SMOKO E-Cigarette, is the perfect device to help you quit smoking. With a long-lasting battery and prefilled E-Cigarette refills filled with our UK made e-liquids that offer amazing flavour, this mouth to lung device is tried and tested and is one of the most accessible vapes around.

What Are the Best Disposable Vapes?

The best disposable vape kits are celebrated for their convenience, ease of use, and variety of flavours. These vapes come pre-filled with nicotine salt vape juice and are designed to be used until the liquid runs out, after which they are discarded, eliminating the need for refilling or maintenance. Top choices in this category include the Elf Bar BC5000, known for its extensive flavour options and impressive puff count but isn't available in the UK due to over 20mg/ml nicotine strength and tank size of larger than 2ml, and the Geek Bar Pulse, which combines a sleek design with a satisfying vaping experience (but again is illegal in the UK). The Air Bar Max also stands out for its decent flavour profiles and long-lasting performance, but again breaks UK regulations. These disposable vapes are ideal for those seeking a hassle-free vaping experience or for occasional use, providing a reliable and flavourful alternative without the commitment of reusable vapes for those outside the UK.

While these accessible vapes are convenient and easy, there are several issues surrounding disposable vapes that disposable users should be aware of. The use of nicotine salt e-liquids means they typically contain 3 to 4 times the amount of flavouring used in freebase nicotine liquids (1) which is why disposables have powerful flavours, but as flavourings are responsible for some of the volatile compounds produced in the vaping process, this could indicate that nic salt vape liquids are more harmful than freebase nicotine liquids. Additionally, huge amounts of usable lithium are thrown away each week in disposable vapes, making disposable vapes less environmentally friendly than vapes with a rechargeable battery (2). Thirdly, with many disposables ending up in the hands of school children, there are serious concerns over the impact nicotine consumption has on the developing brain (3). These are the reasons the UK government will be implementing a ban on disposable vapes in 2025 which will impact disposable users.

What are the best rechargeable vapes?

The highest quality vape kits offer a blend of performance, convenience, and battery capacity, making them ideal for daily use. Among top choices, the Voopoo Drag X Plus stands out with its powerful output, customisable settings, and durable build, providing a robust vaping experience with a long-lasting battery. The GeekVape Aegis X is another excellent option, renowned for its rugged design and high-capacity battery, making it perfect for vapers who need a reliable device that can withstand daily wear and tear. For a more compact choice, the Vaporesso Luxe PM40 combines sleek design with adjustable features and a substantial battery life, ensuring consistent performance and ease of use. These rechargeable vapes are favoured for their efficiency and ability to deliver a satisfying vaping experience, making them top picks for those seeking a dependable and high-performing device - however for those seeking minimal hassle, the SMOKO Vape Starter kits use prefilled pods with rechargeable batteries for an eco-friendly vaping experience.

What is the Best Cigarette Vape?

The best cigarette vape, often called 'cigalike' style, is designed to closely mimic the experience of smoking traditional cigarettes, catering to those who are transitioning from smoking and just starting their vaping journey. These compact devices do not feature adjustable power or much airflow control, just an internal battery and a user-friendly design allowing new vapers to get started in a way that is just like smoking a cigarette. These vape devices have a low wattage output, which is perfect for mouth to lung vapers, and feature a rechargeable battery. Among the top choices is the JUUL, which remains a popular option for its slim design, ease of use, and satisfying nicotine delivery through its pod system. Another excellent choice is the Vuse Alto, known for its discreet size and smooth nicotine experience. The SMOK Novo X also stands out for its compact form and tight draw, closely resembling the sensation of smoking. These devices are favored for their simplicity, effectiveness in delivering nicotine, and their ability to provide a familiar mouth-to-lung draw, making them ideal for smokers looking for a convenient and effective alternative.

The SMOKO E-Cigarette is one such premium vape kit, providing a close vaping style to smoking. The mouth to lung style of inhale matches the smoking motion, making the transition from smoking as easy as possible. These reusable vapes feature an internal battery that can be recharged, used with our prefilled refills containing our great-tasting UK-made vape liquids. There is no better way to start your vape journey!

What are the best vape pens?

A vape pen is a type of vaping device characterised by its sleek, cylindrical design and user-friendly operation. Similarly, a pod kit offers convenience and user-friendliness, making it an ideal starter kit for both beginners and experienced vapers. It typically features an internal battery, a tank or cartridge for holding e-liquid, and a heating element or coil that vaporizes the liquid when activated. Vape pens are popular for their portability and ease of use, making them an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced vapers looking for a convenient, on-the-go option. They come in various sizes and capacities, with some models offering adjustable features to customise the vaping experience, such as variable wattage or airflow control - allowing the user to produce an airy inhale or dense clouds. Overall, vape pens provide a straightforward and effective way to enjoy your vaping style, combining compact design with reliable performance.

What is the best vape mod?

The best vape mods are distinguished as advanced vape kits, with customisation options and power output catering to both seasoned vapers and enthusiasts. The complex vapes cater for impressive cloud production, have many adjustable features like variable wattage, replaceable coils and adjustable airflow, and are typically not compact vapes. Some vape pens and mods feature different firing modes, and can switch vape tanks to suit the vaper. Some vape mods have a built-in internal battery that can be charged using a USB-C cable where others feature replaceable batteries. Sub-ohm vape kits are also a type of vape mod, one that has low resistance (below 1 Ohm) which allows for impressive cloud production. These sub-ohm kits are designed more for a direct lung inhale, dragging on the device straight into the lungs. The GeekVape Aegis X is highly praised for its rugged design and high wattage output, making it perfect for those who need durability and performance in challenging conditions. The Voopoo Drag X Plus also stands out with its impressive power range and innovative chipset, offering precise control and a satisfying vape experience. Another top contender is the Vaporesso Luxe PM40, known for its sleek design, user-friendly interface, and adjustable power, providing a versatile and enjoyable vaping experience. These vape mods are celebrated for their ability to deliver exceptional vapour production, amazing flavour, and customisation, making them excellent choices for vapers seeking a premium and tailored vaping experience.

While E-Cigarettes are 95% less harmful than smoking, according to Public Health England, there is some evidence to indicate vaping with a high power device produces more volatile compounds than low powered vapes (4), and the high powered vapes also favour vegetable glycerine in the e-liquid mixes, which has also been shown to produce more harmful chemicals in the vaping process than propylene glycol (5). This would suggest that using a mouth to lung device that is low power with e-liquids favouring propylene glycol may be the safest way to vape.

How does the coil type affect my vape mod?

The selection of coils in a vape mod significantly impacts the overall vaping experience, influencing factors like flavour, vapour production, and device performance. Quality coils come in a wide range of materials, such as kanthal, stainless steel, and nickel, each offering different heating characteristics and resistance levels to tackle the adjustable power for advanced vape kits. For example, kanthal coils are known for their durability and consistent performance, making them ideal for general use. Stainless steel coils provide versatility, allowing for both wattage and temperature control vaping, while nickel coils are suited for precise temperature control but are less commonly used due to their specific requirements. The coil’s resistance also affects the amount of heat and vapor produced; lower resistance coils (used in sub-ohm vape kits) typically generate larger vapour clouds and amazing flavour, whereas higher resistance coils are better for more restrained vapour production and throat hit.

Coil arrangement is another factor that impacts the vaping experience. The coil arrangement in a vape device significantly affects the vaping experience by influencing factors such as vapour production, flavour intensity, and heat distribution. Single-coil setups are straightforward and often easier to manage, providing a balanced vapour and flavour profile that suits many vapers. In contrast, dual-coil modes, where two coils are used, offer increased surface area, resulting in more vapour production and flavorful clouds. This configuration can also lead to a more even heating of the e-liquid, reducing hot spots and improving overall consistency. Advanced arrangements, such as quad or hex coils and mesh coils, push these benefits even further, allowing impressive cloud production and amazing flavour. However, these complex setups usually require higher wattage output and more frequent maintenance. Ultimately, the replaceable coils you choose should align with your vaping preferences and the type of experience you seek. Whether you choose single coils, dual coils or mesh coils, always choose quality coils from a reputable manufacturer that can handle the high wattage output and variable wattage adequately.

How Does Vape Juice Impact the Type of vape?

Vape juice significantly impacts the performance and overall experience of different types of vapes. The composition of vape juice, including its PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin) ratios, affects the vapour production and throat hit. For instance, high VG e-liquids, which produce thicker clouds and smoother hits, are best suited for sub-ohm tanks and advanced vape kits that can handle larger vapour volumes. In contrast, higher PG e-liquids, which offer a stronger throat hit and more flavour intensity, are ideal for smaller devices like pod systems and vape pens. Nicotine salt vape juice that uses nicotine in its natural form provides a smooth inhale as nicotine in this form is not absorbed in the throat. That means nicotine salt vape juice can be vaped in a more powerful device, whereas freebase nicotine hits the throat, favouring low power output and devices that don't produce so much vapour. Additionally, the nicotine strength in vape juice can influence the type of vape; higher nicotine concentrations are often used in devices with a tighter draw, such as pod systems, while lower strengths are better suited for devices that produce larger vapour clouds. Thus, choosing the right vape juice with an authentic flavour is crucial for optimising the performance and satisfaction of your vaping device.

What is the Best Compact Vape?

The best compact vapes strikes a balance between portability, performance, and ease of use, making it ideal for on-the-go vaping. Pod kits are compact and user-friendly vaping devices that offer a mouth-to-lung experience, closely mimicking traditional smoking. Cigarette style vapes are a great accessible vape for new vapers starting their vaping journey, like the SMOKO E-Cigarette. These quality vape kits use prefilled refills so the user doesn’t have to worry about replaceable coils and filling e-liquid! A standout option in this category is the more complex SMOK Nord 4, which offers a compact design without sacrificing versatility, featuring adjustable power and a range of coil options. Another top choice is the Voopoo Vinci Air, known for its slim profile and impressive long-lasting battery, while still delivering a robust vaping experience. The Elf Bar BC5000 is also highly regarded for its sleek and discreet design, combined with a user-friendly interface and excellent flavour output. These compact vapes are perfect for those who want a portable device that doesn’t compromise on performance, offering convenience and reliability in a small package.

What Strength Vape Juice Should I Choose?

Choosing the right strength of vape juice is crucial for achieving a satisfying vaping experience and can depend on your previous smoking habits or personal preferences. If you’re transitioning from smoking, you might start with higher nicotine strengths, such as 12-18 mg/ml, to mimic the nicotine hit from cigarettes. For light smokers or those who prefer a less intense nicotine experience, a lower strength like 3-6 mg/ml may be more suitable. Nicotine-free options are also available for those who enjoy the act of vaping but do not want nicotine. Additionally, the type of vape device you use can influence your choice; devices with higher power and larger vapour production might require lower nicotine levels, while smaller, lower-powered devices often pair better with higher nicotine concentrations. Adjusting the nicotine strength based on your needs ensures a comfortable and enjoyable vaping experience.

Vape Kit Prices and Value

Vape kit prices can vary widely, depending on the type, quality, and brand. Starter kits can be found for as little as £15, making them an affordable entry point for new vapers. On the other hand, high-end box mod kits can exceed £50, offering advanced features and superior performance. When considering the cost, it’s essential to think about the value a vape kit provides. A good-quality vape kit can last for several months, and the ongoing cost of e-liquid is relatively low. Additionally, many vape kits come with free accessories, such as a free pack of e-liquid or a carrying case, adding to their overall value. Investing in a reliable vape kit can enhance your vaping experience and provide long-term savings. With SMOKO, you can pick up a starter kit for FREE* when you buy a box of SMOKO refills! (*One per customer) 

Vape Kit Maintenance and Upgrades

To ensure your vape kit performs optimally and lasts longer, regular maintenance is key. This includes cleaning the device, replacing the coil, and refilling the e-liquid. For those looking to enhance their vaping experience, upgrading your vape kit can be a great option. Purchasing new coils, tanks, or batteries can significantly improve performance. Experienced vapers might consider upgrading to a sub-ohm kit or a box mod kit for a more satisfying experience. With a huge selection of vape kits and accessories available from top brands, finding the perfect device to suit your needs has never been easier. Regular maintenance and thoughtful upgrades can keep your vape kit in top condition, ensuring a consistently enjoyable vaping experience.

Safety and Health Considerations

Best Vape UK 2024

As we look ahead to 2024, the best vape in the UK is expected to feature advanced technology, user-friendly design, and exceptional performance. Your preference for the best vape will be impacted by your preference of inhale styles, the type of vape juice, and how much maintenance you are willing to perform!

The GeekVape Z50 Kit is likely to be a top contender, known for its durability and versatility, offering a robust vaping experience with variable wattage and a sleek, compact design. The Voopoo Drag X Plus is also anticipated to be a favorite for vapour production, praised for its powerful output and customizable settings, catering to both novice and experienced vapers. Additionally, the Elf Bar BC5000, with its convenient disposable format and a wide range of flavours, is set to remain popular for its ease of use and impressive vapour quality. These devices reflect the latest trends and innovations in the vaping industry, ensuring that the best vape in the UK for 2024 will deliver on performance, style, and user satisfaction.

Best Vape: Top Devices for the Ultimate Vaping Experience - Conclusion

There are enough different devices out there to find the perfect device for your style of vaping. It may take a bit of trial and error, but most vapers stick to what they like once they have found the right type of vape kit. At SMOKO we believe in providing a hassle-free vaping experience using compact vapes and prefilled refills that works for long-term vapers and new vapers alike.

If you are a smoker looking to quit, check out one of the premium vape kits from SMOKO: the SMOKO VAPE POD offers a modern, slender design with a small range of colour options to match anyone's personal style. The SMOKO E-Cigarette is a cigarette style, or 'cigalike', vape that is the perfect device for smokers to make the switch to vaping. Another compact vape that looks and feels like a cigarette, using rechargeable batteries like all SMOKO devices. Both devices utilise prefilled refills containing our UK-made freebase nicotine vape juice to avoid messy filling, and with a new coil in each refill means vapers don't need to worry about coil options like with direct lung vape kits.

Vaping is 95% less harmful than smoking, according to Public Health England (6), but a survey from Action on Smoking and Health found that 40% of UK smokers wrongly believe vaping is as harmful or even worse than smoking! (7) With a recent study by the Cochrane Library finding 'high-certainty' evidence that E-Cigarettes are more effective for quitting smoking than traditional forms of nicotine replacement therapy, such as nicotine patches and nicotine gum, there has never been a better time to quit smoking!

REFERENCES

(1) Comprehensive Dutch market data analysis shows that e-liquids with nicotine salts have both higher nicotine and flavour concentrations than those with free-base nicotine

(2) Study finds that vast amounts of waste are caused by single-use e-cigarette batteries

(3) Nicotine and the young brain

(4) Sub-ohm vaping increases the levels of carbonyls, is cytotoxic, and alters gene expression in human bronchial epithelial cells exposed at the air–liquid interface

(5) Influence of the E-Cigarette Emission Profile by the Ratio of Glycerol to Propylene Glycol in E-Liquid Composition

(6) E-cigarettes around 95% less harmful than tobacco estimates landmark review

(7) Four in ten smokers wrongly believe that vaping is as or more harmful as smoking

ABOUT THE AUTHOR 

Written by Dan Overgage