Blog Highlights
- Understand exactly what vape pods are.
- Learn the difference between open pods and closed pods (and which might suit your needs).
- Discover the benefits of pod systems, including size, convenience, and cost-effectiveness.
- Step-by-step guide on how to use, fill, and replace vape pods.
- Common beginner pain points like leaks, burnt pods, and coil compatibility are explained.
- Tips on pairing pods with the right e-liquids for the best flavour and performance.
- Know when it’s time to replace a pod to avoid dry hits and wasted juice.
What are Vape Pods?
A vape pod is an e-liquid reservoir designed to connect with a pod vape kit. In other words, it’s the atomising component which houses the e-liquid chamber and integrated/replaceable coil that vapourises the liquid when power passes through.
They often use a magnetic or click-fit connection to ensure secure placement within the device. Unlike traditional tanks, pods are smaller, easier to replace, and optimised for low-power MTL vaping.
Did you know? In 1927, Joseph Robinson filed the first patent for an electric vapouriser designed to safely vapourise medicinal compounds without burning them; an early breakthrough that laid the foundation for today’s awesome vape.
How Many Types of Vape Pods Are There?
- Pre-filled Pods – Closed-system pods, prefilled with e-liquid, replaced entirely when empty (e.g. Hayati Pro Max Plus, Elf Bar 4-in-1). No mess, no coil changes.
- Refillable Pods – Open-system pods you fill yourself with nicotine salts or 50/50 blends. Versatile and reusable.
- Fixed Coil Pods – Come with non-replaceable coils. Once burnt, the whole pod is discarded. Easy but less eco-friendly.
- Replaceable Coil Pods – Allow coil swaps inside the pod. Cheaper long-term, flexible with coil resistances, popular with intermediate users.
What’s Inside the Pods?
- Coil – The heating element (Kanthal, SS, nichrome, titanium) with cotton wicking. Heats e-liquid into vapour.
- Battery – Sends power to the pod, heating the coil in seconds.
- Mouthpiece – Usually fixed, slim design. Vapour flows directly for consistent draw.
How Long Do Vape Pods Last?
On average, a pod lasts 1–2 weeks depending on usage, wattage, and liquid type. Heavy users may need replacements sooner.
Factors Affecting Pod Life
- Sweet e-liquids caramelise coils faster.
- Heavy vaping = quicker coil wear.
- Running pods above recommended wattage reduces lifespan.
How to Choose the Right Pod for Your Kit?
Device Compatibility
Always match pods to the correct device model (e.g., SMOK Nord pods won’t fit a VooPoo Vinci).
Coil Resistance & Vaping Style
- MTL – Tight draw, higher resistance (1.0Ω+), best for smokers switching.
- DTL – Open draw, low resistance (<0.5Ω), big clouds.
- RDTL – Hybrid style, 0.6–0.9Ω, balance between MTL & DTL.
E-Liquid Pairing
High resistance pods = best with 50/50 blends or nic salts. Low resistance pods = better with 70/30 shortfills.
Advanced Features of Vape Pods (2025)
- Dual Mesh Coil Pods – smoother vapour, consistent heating.
- Adjustable Airflow – customise draw tightness.
- Leak-Resistant Designs – improved seals & airflow.
- Mesh Coil Tech – stronger flavour, better wicking, less dry hits.
How to Fix Common Pod Issues?
Leaking Pods
Avoid overfilling, use correct liquids, and store upright. Replace if seals are worn.
Burnt Taste
Means coil is finished. Prime new pods and avoid chain vaping to prevent.
Pod Not Firing
Check seating, clean contacts, and replace if coil is dead.
Poor Flavour
Caused by residue, coil wear, or wrong liquid type. Clean mouthpiece, replace pod if needed.
How to Clean a Vape Pod?
Empty pod, rinse with lukewarm water, dry thoroughly, wipe contacts before reuse.
How to Maintain Your Pods?
- Let pods sit 5–10 mins after filling.
- Take a few dry puffs to saturate coil.
- Leave small air gap when refilling.
- Wipe condensation at battery contacts.
- Rotate pods, don’t let them run dry.
- Store upright, avoid heat.
How to Refill a Vape Pod?
Remove pod, open stopper (side/bottom/top depending on design), fill slowly, close stopper, and let sit for priming before vaping.
Are Pods TPD-Compliant?
Under TPD, pod capacity is limited to 2ml and nicotine strength capped at 20mg. Packaging must be child-resistant, tamper-evident, and carry health warnings.
Final Words
Vape pods have transformed modern vaping by making devices more compact, user-friendly, and versatile. Whether you’re using pre-filled or refillable pods, the right choice depends on compatibility, style, and e-liquid preference.
Shop the best pod kits from the top brands today at Ma Vapour.