Beginner's Guide to Vaping: Finding Your Perfect First Device
New to vaping or thinking about making the switch from smoking? This guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose your first device with confidence—from understanding different types to finding the right nicotine strength for your needs.
Understanding Different Vape Device Types
When you're just starting out, all the different vape devices can seem overwhelming. Let's break down the main types you'll encounter to help you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences.
Pod Systems
Best for: New quitters, portable use, simplicity
Pod systems are compact, user-friendly devices that use replaceable or refillable "pods" instead of traditional tanks. They're typically draw-activated (no buttons needed) and deliver a satisfying nicotine hit with minimal vapor production.
If you're looking for a discreet, easy-to-use option that mimics the feeling of smoking, check out our range of pod systems designed for beginners.
Vape Pens
Best for: Balance of simplicity and performance
Vape pens are slim, pen-shaped devices that offer more battery life and vapor production than pod systems while remaining user-friendly. They typically have a single button operation and refillable tanks.
For those wanting a step up from pod systems without the complexity of advanced mods, our vape pen kits offer a perfect middle ground.
Disposables
Best for: Ultimate convenience, trying vaping with no commitment
Disposable vapes come pre-filled with e-liquid and pre-charged. Once they're empty, you simply dispose of them and grab a new one. They're incredibly convenient and require zero maintenance.
If you want to try vaping with minimal investment or need a backup device, browse our disposable vapes in a variety of flavors.
Beginner Tip: Start Simple
As a new vaper, it's generally best to start with a simpler device like a pod system or disposable. These provide a satisfying experience without the learning curve or maintenance requirements of advanced devices. You can always upgrade later as you become more comfortable with vaping.
Choosing the Right E-Liquid
Finding the right e-liquid is just as important as choosing the right device. There are three main factors to consider: nicotine strength, PG/VG ratio, and flavor profile.
Nicotine Strength
If you're switching from smoking, choosing the right nicotine strength is crucial for a satisfying experience. Here's a general guide:
18-20mg (High)
Recommended for: Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes per day)
Provides a strong nicotine hit closest to smoking. Best used with lower-power devices like pod systems.
Browse our 18-20mg e-liquids for a strong nicotine hit.
10-12mg (Medium)
Recommended for: Regular smokers (10-20 cigarettes per day)
Offers a moderate nicotine hit that works well for average smokers. Compatible with most starter devices.
Check out our 10ml e-liquids which often come in this strength range.
3-6mg (Low)
Recommended for: Light smokers or those reducing nicotine intake
Provides a mild nicotine hit, suitable for infrequent smokers or those stepping down their nicotine consumption.
Our 3mg e-liquids are perfect for lighter smokers.
Nicotine Salts vs. Regular (Freebase) Nicotine
Many newcomers to vaping are discovering the benefits of nicotine salt e-liquids, which offer a smoother throat hit at higher nicotine strengths compared to traditional freebase nicotine.
What are Nicotine Salts?
Nicotine salts are formulated to be less harsh on the throat while delivering nicotine more efficiently. This makes them ideal for those who need higher nicotine concentrations but don't enjoy the harsh throat hit of traditional e-liquids.
Browse our collection of nicotine salt e-liquids for a smoother vaping experience.
Popular Flavor Profiles
Flavor is a highly personal preference, but most flavors fall into these categories:
- Fruity E-Liquids - Popular with new vapers for their refreshing, vibrant taste
- Sweet E-Liquids - Includes desserts, candies, and bakery flavors
- Tobacco Flavours - Familiar taste for those transitioning from smoking
- Beverage Flavours - Coffee, tea, soda, and other drink-inspired tastes
- Cool E-Liquids - Menthol and cooling flavors for a refreshing experience
Beginner Tip: Try Before You Commit
Not sure which flavor profile you'll enjoy? Our 4 for 3 deal on 10ml e-liquids lets you experiment with different flavors without breaking the bank.
5 Essential Tips for New Vapers
1. Start with the Right Nicotine Strength
Choosing a nicotine strength that's too low might leave you unsatisfied, while one that's too high could be unpleasant. Match your smoking habits to find your sweet spot.
2. Maintenance Matters
Even simple devices need basic care. Change pods or coils regularly (usually every 1-2 weeks) when you notice a burnt taste or reduced vapor production. Keep your device clean and store e-liquids away from direct sunlight and heat.
3. Stay Hydrated
Vaping can cause mild dehydration. Keep a water bottle handy, especially when you're first starting out, to combat dry mouth and throat.
4. Adjust Your Technique
Vaping is different from smoking. Take slower, gentler draws instead of short, sharp puffs. Let the vapor linger in your mouth before inhaling for a more satisfying experience.
5. Have a Backup
Batteries die and coils burn out—usually at the most inconvenient times. Having a backup device (even a simple disposable) ensures you're never caught without an option, which is especially important when you're first quitting smoking.
Looking for more detailed advice? Our starter kits come with comprehensive guides to help you get the most from your device.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when to change my coil or pod?
You'll notice a burnt taste, reduced vapor production, or less flavor. Typically, coils last 1-2 weeks depending on your usage and the sweetness of your e-liquid. Sweet e-liquids tend to shorten coil life.
Is vaping cheaper than smoking?
In most cases, yes. While there's an initial investment in equipment, the ongoing costs of e-liquid and replacement coils are generally much lower than buying cigarettes, especially with options like our 4 for 3 e-liquid deals.
What's the difference between MTL and DTL vaping?
Mouth-to-Lung (MTL) vaping is similar to smoking—you draw vapor into your mouth first, then inhale. Direct-to-Lung (DTL) involves inhaling directly into your lungs. As a beginner, MTL devices like pod systems are usually more familiar and comfortable.
Are there alternatives to vaping for nicotine?
Yes, there are several options beyond vaping. Nicotine pouches and strips provide a smoke-free, vapor-free alternative that can be used discreetly in situations where vaping isn't possible.
How long will my device battery last?
Battery life varies by device and usage. Pod systems typically last 4-8 hours of moderate use, while larger devices with bigger batteries can last a full day or more. For maximum battery lifespan, avoid letting your device discharge completely before recharging.
Vaping Terminology for Beginners
Coil: The heating element in your device that vaporizes the e-liquid.
mAh: Milliampere-hour, a unit measuring battery capacity. Higher numbers mean longer battery life.
MTL/DTL: Mouth-to-Lung and Direct-to-Lung, the two main vaping inhalation styles.
Nic Salts: A form of nicotine that provides a smoother experience at higher strengths, popular in pod systems.
PG/VG: Propylene Glycol and Vegetable Glycerin, the two main base ingredients in e-liquid. Different ratios affect throat hit and vapor production.
Shortfill: Larger bottles of nicotine-free e-liquid with space to add nicotine separately. Common in 50ml and 100ml sizes.
TPD: Tobacco Products Directive, the regulations governing vape products in the UK and EU.
Ready to Start Your Vaping Journey?
Whether you're quitting smoking or trying vaping for the first time, we've got everything you need to get started with confidence.
Shop Beginner-Friendly Pod Systems Explore Starter E-LiquidsThis guide is intended for adults 18+ only. Nicotine is an addictive substance. If you don't currently use nicotine products, we don't recommend starting. Always follow manufacturer guidelines when using any vaping device.