Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
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Match your smoking habits: Pick a device and nicotine strength that reflects how much you used to smoke — this makes the switch smoother and more satisfying.
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Start simple: Beginner-friendly vape kits with easy refills and minimal settings help you get comfortable without feeling overwhelmed.
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Focus on quality and safety: Choosing trusted UK-regulated brands ensures better performance, reliability, and peace of mind as you start your vaping journey.
Making the switch from traditional cigarettes to E-Cigarettes can feel overwhelming with so many options available. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the world of vaping and choose the perfect starter device for your needs.
Choosing your first e-cigarette is one of the most important decisions you’ll make on your journey away from traditional smoking. Transitioning from smoking to vaping involves selecting the right vape kit or starter kit to ensure a smoother switch and a satisfying experience. With countless options flooding the market, finding the right device can seem daunting. However, understanding the basics and knowing what to look for will help you make an informed choice that sets you up for success.
Understanding E-Cigarette Types
The E-Cigarette market offers several distinct categories, each designed for different user preferences and experience levels. A vape device is the hardware used for vaping, heating e-liquid to produce nicotine-containing vapour that can be inhaled like cigarette smoke (1). There are various vape kits/starter kits available, catering to both beginners and experienced users, with comprehensive packaging and ease of use for those new to vaping. Understanding these options is crucial for making the right choice, especially given the wide variety of vape devices on the market.
Cigalikes
Cigalikes are the earliest form of electronic cigarette designed to closely resemble traditional cigarettes in both appearance and feel. These devices are typically the most straightforward option for beginners, featuring a simple two-piece design with a cartridge and a rechargeable battery. The rechargeable battery allows users to conveniently recharge the device instead of replacing batteries, adding both convenience and sustainability. They’re lightweight, discreet, and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for those who want a familiar smoking experience without the complexity of larger devices.
Vape Pens
Vape pens, also known as pen style vape kits, offer more battery life and vapour production than cigalikes while remaining user-friendly. These cylindrical devices typically feature refillable tanks and replaceable coils, giving users more control over their vaping experience. Pen style vape kits are especially popular among beginners seeking an authentic mouth-to-lung vaping experience. They strike a balance between simplicity and customisation, making them suitable for beginners ready to explore beyond basic options.
Pod Systems
Pod systems, also referred to as 'pod kits' or 'pod vapes', have gained tremendous popularity due to their convenience and performance. These compact devices use pre-filled or refillable pods that snap into place, eliminating the mess and complexity of traditional tank systems. Refillable pod vape kits offer the flexibility to use your own e-liquids and help reduce waste compared to disposables. Many pod systems are draw-activated, meaning you simply inhale to activate the device, mimicking the natural smoking motion, but some will feature a 'fire button' that sends power to the coil to start vaping.
Key Factors to Consider
Nicotine Strength
Selecting the appropriate nicotine strength is crucial for a successful transition. Different nicotine strengths are available to match your previous smoking habits, helping you find the right balance for your needs. Heavy smokers (more than a pack per day) typically benefit from higher nicotine concentrations, while light smokers may prefer lower strengths. The choice of nicotine hit can affect satisfaction and cravings, so it's important to select a formulation that delivers the desired effect. Most e-liquids offer nicotine levels ranging from 0mg to 20mg in the UK (due to the 20mg/ml legal limit (2)), with many beginners finding success with 20mg/ml.
There are two types of nicotine formulations to consider: nicotine salts and freebase nicotine. Nicotine salts (a.k.a nic salts) are popular for their smoother throat hit, especially at higher nicotine strengths, making them suitable for those seeking a strong nicotine hit without harshness. Nicotine salt e-liquids are absorbed quickly, providing a smooth inhale for new vapers or those transitioning from smoking, as they provide a satisfying nicotine hit and help manage cravings effectively. Evidence indicates that freebase nicotine can achieve higher blood-nicotine levels, so may reduce vaping frequency. (3)
Battery Life and Charging
Consider your daily routine when evaluating battery life. Devices with higher battery capacity offer longer usage between charges, which is especially important if you’re frequently away from charging opportunities. If you’re frequently away from charging opportunities, look for devices with longer battery life or consider purchasing a backup device. Some advanced vape devices, such as box mods and mod kits, use external batteries for increased power and flexibility. Many modern e-cigarettes feature USB charging, making it convenient to charge at work, in the car, or anywhere you have access to a USB port.
Ease of Use
As a beginner, prioritise simplicity over advanced features. Look for devices with straightforward operation, minimal buttons, and clear instructions. Automatic draw activation can make the transition smoother by eliminating the need to press buttons while vaping. Learning to vape properly is essential for getting the best results and enjoying a smoother experience.
Cost Considerations
While the initial investment in an E-Cigarette might seem significant, consider the long-term savings compared to traditional cigarettes. Factor in not just the device cost, but also ongoing expenses like replacement cartridges, e-liquid, and coils. Disposable vapes, while convenient and beginner-friendly, often result in higher long-term costs and greater environmental impact compared to refillable devices. Many users find that premium E-Cigarette setups pay for themselves within weeks through cigarette savings.
Quality and Safety Standards
When choosing your first e-cigarette, prioritise products that meet strict safety and quality standards. Look for devices that comply with UK regulations and feature proper certifications. Quality manufacturing ensures consistent performance, safety, and longevity of your investment. Public Health England has found that vaping is significantly less harmful than smoking (4), supporting the use of E-Cigarettes as a safer alternative.
UK-made products often provide additional peace of mind through stringent manufacturing standards and quality control processes. These products undergo rigorous testing and must meet specific regulatory requirements, ensuring you receive a safe and reliable device. Unlike traditional cigarettes, vaping does not produce tar and carbon monoxide—harmful substances found in cigarette smoke that are linked to serious health risks such as cancer and lung disease. By choosing vaping, you avoid exposure to toxic chemicals like carbon monoxide, which is a major contributor to the dangers of smoking. (5)
Flavour Options and Preferences
One of the most enjoyable aspects of switching to E-Cigarettes is exploring different flavours. Some e-liquids are specifically formulated to deliver an intense flavour and a strong throat hit, appealing to vapers who seek vivid taste sensations and a satisfying experience. Start with familiar options like tobacco or menthol if you’re concerned about the transition, then gradually explore fruit, dessert, or beverage flavours. Many beginners find that having variety helps maintain interest and reduces the temptation to return to traditional cigarettes.
The base ingredients in vape juice, such as vegetable glycerin (also known as VG) and propylene glycol (known as 'PG'), play a key role in shaping your vaping experience. Vegetable glycerine is a thick, sweet liquid that produces more vapour and is ideal for those who enjoy larger vapour clouds. Propylene glycol, on the other hand, is a thinner liquid that acts as a strong flavour carrier and provides a more pronounced throat hit. Adjusting the ratio of vegetable glycerine to propylene glycol in your vape juice allows you to customise the balance between vapour production, flavour intensity, and throat hit to suit your preferences.
Consider purchasing sample packs or smaller bottles initially to discover your preferences without committing to large quantities of flavours you might not enjoy. E-liquid is also commonly referred to as vape juice, so you may see both terms used when shopping for new flavours.
Maintenance and Care
Different e-cigarette types require varying levels of maintenance. Cigalikes and closed pod systems require minimal upkeep, while refillable vape kits need regular cleaning and coil replacement, but offer greater flexibility in e-liquid choice and customisation. Most starter kits are designed for easy maintenance, often featuring simple coil replacement systems and user-friendly designs to help beginners get started with minimal hassle. As a beginner, consider your willingness to perform maintenance tasks when selecting your device.
Vape coils, which contain wicking material, are essential components that heat the e-liquid to produce vapour and deliver flavour. The wicking material inside the coil absorbs the e-liquid, ensuring proper vaporisation and preventing dry hits. Coil resistance also plays a key role in the vaping experience—lower resistance coils typically produce more vapour and require more frequent maintenance, while higher resistance coils are often used for mouth-to-lung (MTL) vaping and may last longer between changes.
Proper care extends device life and ensures optimal performance. This includes regular cleaning, proper storage, and following manufacturer guidelines for charging and usage.
Making Your Decision
Start by honestly assessing your smoking habits, lifestyle, and preferences. Choosing the right first vape kit is crucial to ensure a satisfying experience. For those new to vaping, vape starter kits are ideal options as they are designed to be user-friendly and straightforward. Beginner vape kits are specifically made for ease of use and to provide a smooth transition from smoking to vaping. Heavy smokers might benefit from devices with higher nicotine delivery and longer battery life, while occasional smokers might prefer compact, discreet options.
As a new vaper, remember that the best vape starter kit will depend on your personal preferences and habits. Consider visiting a reputable retailer where you can see devices in person and ask questions. Many experienced vapers and shop staff can provide valuable insights based on your specific needs and preferences.
Getting Started Successfully
Once you’ve chosen your device, remember why you have made the switch to vaping: to stop smoking cigarettes. If you are new to vaping or a transitioning smoker, give yourself time to adjust—it's normal for the sensation and technique to feel different at first, and it may take several days or weeks to feel completely comfortable.
There are several inhalation techniques in the vaping world, such as mouth to lung vaping (also called MTL vaping), RDL vaping (restricted direct lung), and DTL vaping (direct to lung), each offering a unique vape style. Beginners often start with mouth to lung vaping, as it closely mimics the draw of a traditional cigarette, while sub ohm vapes typically utilise a DTL inhale and produce larger vapour clouds.
To achieve a satisfying vaping experience, it's important to choose the right e-liquid, whether you prefer freebase nicotine, nicotine salts, or nicotine free options. Inhale vapour gently and vape properly to avoid coughing and ensure the best results.
Keep your traditional cigarettes away during the transition period to avoid temptation. Having your e-cigarette readily available and fully charged increases your chances of success.
Consider joining online communities or forums where you can connect with other beginners and experienced vapers. These communities offer support, advice, and troubleshooting help as you navigate your vaping journey.
Final Recommendations
For most beginners, starting with a simple, high-quality device from a reputable manufacturer provides the best foundation for success. Electronic cigarettes, E Cigs and 'electronic nicotine delivery systems' (ENDS) are terms used to describe a wide range of vaping devices, including those with features like refillable pods, open tank systems, and pod devices. Focus on reliability and ease of use rather than advanced features you may not need initially.
Remember that choosing your first e-cigarette is just the beginning of your journey. As you become more comfortable with vaping, you may want to explore different devices, flavours, accessories, and vape liquid options to enhance your vaping experience. The key is starting with something that meets your immediate needs and supports your goal of moving away from traditional cigarettes.
Take time to research, ask questions, and make an informed decision. Your first e-cigarette choice can significantly impact your success in making the switch, so invest the time needed to choose wisely. With the right device and approach, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the benefits of vaping while leaving tobacco cigarettes behind.
At SMOKO, we have been helping smokers make the switch for over 12 years. Our e-liquid is made here in the UK so is subject to some of the highest standards in the industry. So if you are a smoker looking to switch - check out the SMOKO Starter Kit Deals today and say 'goodbye' to tobacco cigarettes!
FAQ – How to Choose Your First E-Cigarette
Q: What type of e-cigarette is best for beginners?
A: Simple starter kits or pod systems are ideal for beginners. They’re easy to use, require little maintenance, and provide a satisfying nicotine hit without complicated settings.
Q: How do I know what nicotine strength to choose?
A: Match your nicotine strength to your previous smoking habits — light smokers may prefer 6 mg or less, moderate smokers around 12 mg, and heavy smokers 18 mg or higher. This helps curb cravings effectively.
Q: Are all e-cigarettes safe to use?
A: No — only buy from trusted, regulated UK brands that meet safety standards. This ensures the device and e-liquids are tested and compliant with strict quality controls.
Q: How long does a vape kit last?
A: With proper care, a quality vape kit can last months or even years. Coils and pods need replacing regularly, usually every 1–3 weeks depending on use.
Q: Can I use any e-liquid with my device?
A: Not always. Some devices work best with thinner, high-PG e-liquids, while others are designed for thicker, high-VG options. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for best performance.
References
(1) NHS Using e-cigarettes to stop smoking
(2) E-cigarettes: regulations for consumer products
(4) E-cigarettes and harm reduction: An evidence review
(5) Carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke harms health
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Written by Dan Overgage
Last updated 17/10/2025
