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Vape pod kits continue to grow in popularity and act as a more sustainable alternative to disposable vapes. But what are vape pod kits?
A vape pod kit is an e-cigarette that holds e-liquid in a cartridge. It includes a pod that slots into a battery with a proprietary connection. This is opposed to a more traditional e-cigarette which has a vape tank and battery that are connected using a 510-thread connection.
There are two main types of vape pods: prefilled and refillable. As the names suggest, a prefilled pod vape comes with the e-liquid already contained within the cartridge and can't be refilled with additional e-liquid. A refillable pod is bought as an empty cartridge and is refilled with e-liquid.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of each, and consider the best pod vape kits for each category.
What is a Prefilled Vape Pod kit?
A prefilled vape pod kit consists of a rechargeable battery and a pod cartridge which is already filled with e-liquid. You may also hear these types of pod kits referred to as closed pod systems. While prefilled pod kits can be more costly than other vapes, I find that in the long run, they do have their benefits:
- Simple to use
- Lower ongoing cost than single-use disposable vapes
- Can swap between flavours by simply changing the pod cartridge
Prefilled pods are ideal if you like disposables but are looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective way to vape. The battery is rechargeable, typically at least 100 times. This means no more throwing away lithium-ion batteries after a single use – a bonus for the environment.
Additionally, prefilled pod cartridges typically cost about half as much as equivalent disposables, which is a plus for your bank balance.
Many prefilled pods deliver a vaping experience similar to disposable vapes, with intense flavours. However, there are options available for vapers who prefer less sweet, and more "everyday" vape flavours.
With all this in mind let’s take a look at the best prefilled vape pods.
Totally Wicked byte vape pod
The Totally Wicked Byte is designed with the primary goal of helping individuals quit smoking in a hassle-free manner. It offers a selection of six pod flavours, including Menthol, Tobacco, Roll-up Tobacco, Mixed Fruit, Iced Blackcurrant, and Strawberry.
One notable feature of the Byte is its ESP technology, which ensures that the e-liquid remains fresh over time. The e-liquid inside the pod is Switz Smooth, a next-generation Nic Salt formula carefully crafted to mimic the smoking experience. This results in a smoother throat hit and effective nicotine delivery.
If you’re looking to make the switch from cigarettes to a prefilled pod, the byte is the go-to choice.
What is a refillable pod vape kit?
Refillable vape pod kits offer vapers the flexibility to experiment with different e-liquid flavours and strengths. These kits are also known as open pod systems. They come in two main types: fixed atomizer pods and changeable atomizer pods.
A fixed atomizer pod has the atomizer head built into the pod, so you can’t replace it separately. This simplifies things because you dispose of the entire cartridge and replace it with a new one.
On the other hand, changeable atomizer head pods are more cost-effective and eco-friendly because you only need to change the atomizer head instead of the whole cartridge.
Refillable vape pods do involve the added step of refilling, but they offer several advantages compared to prefilled vape pods:
- Much more cost-effective
- A wider variety of flavour options
- More environmentally friendly
While prefilled pods are straightforward, refillable vape pods are still user-friendly and often offer versatility, with adjustable settings and various atomizer head options.
Let's take a look at what I consider to be the best refillable vape pods.
AIO Pod 2
The Totally Wicked AIO Pod 2 is a fixed atomizer pod and keeps things incredibly simple. There are no settings to adjust and no buttons to press as it uses an auto-draw activation, meaning it activates when you inhale.
The battery should last most vapers a full day between charges and when it needs recharging it can be done quickly thanks to USB-C technology.
Refilling the pod is straightforward, thanks to a side bung that not only makes it easy but also helps prevent leaks. The AIO Pod 2 maintains a popular pen-style design, staying compact and lightweight. If you prefer a fuss-free refillable vape pod, the AIO Pod 2 is a solid choice.
Skope Air
The Skope Air is a refillable vape pod that comes with changeable atomizer heads. This means that when your atomizer head wears out, you can keep your cartridge and simply replace the atomizer head inside it.
Aside from saving you money, having a changeable atomizer head also provides more flexibility. There are two versions available, one with a 0.8ohm rating and another with a 1.2ohm rating, offering different experiences in terms of vapour production.
The Skope Air’s battery can last a full day between charges for most vapers and supports quick charging. It remains compact and boasts a unique, ergonomic design for a comfortable feel in the hand.
Tornado GTL
The Tornado GTL is the first of three products featuring the GTL Pod cartridge, a versatile pod cartridge with replaceable GTL atomizer heads. GTL atomizer heads are known for delivering clean and flavourful vaping experiences, especially with sweet e-liquids like VLTZ, providing an intense flavour similar to disposables but in a refillable vape pod.
Beyond the atomizer heads, the GTL pod cartridge excels in terms of ease of use. It is refilled by simply sliding the top cap across. The atomizer heads are push fit which makes changing them quick and easy.
The Tornado GTL battery has a generous battery capacity of 1600mAh. This should last vapers a full day between charges and USB-C charging means it will recharge quickly. Plus, the Tornado GTL offers three power modes, allowing you to customize your vaping experience.
Opal
The Opal shares the same GTL Pod cartridge found in the Tornado GTL, offering the excellent features mentioned earlier. However, the Opal battery brings some distinct advantages setting it apart from the Tornado GTL.
One notable feature is its compact size, standing just over 10cm tall and weighing a mere 65 grams, making it perfect for those who prefer a smaller vape device.
What sets the Opal apart further is its adjustable wattage, which operates uniquely. It offers seven power levels ranging from 10 to 25 watts in 2/3-watt increments. Additionally, it includes an LED colour indicator to display your remaining battery level.
arc Impact
The last product in our line-up that utilizes the GTL Pod cartridge is the arc Impact. It’s the most feature-rich refillable vape pod on this list, offering adjustable wattage ranging from 1 to 40 watts, all displayed on a clear OLED screen.
The arc Impact boasts exceptional build quality, and the soft-touch inlays not only enhance its appearance but also provide added comfort during vaping.
If you’re drawn to the concept of a refillable vape pod but want a device packed with features, the arc Impact is the kit you’ve been looking for.
So, there you have it – our best vape pod kits. Whether you prefer simplicity, cost-effectiveness, or customisation, we’ve got an option for you. If you’re still unsure about which vape pod suits your needs best, contact our customer service team. They’ll be happy to guide you through your options.
