Vapes

Refillable vs pod vapes: which is better for new vapers?

Refillable vs pod vapes: which is better for new vapers?

Starting your vaping journey can be confusing, especially when you're faced with so many choices. One of the biggest questions new users ask is, Should I start with a refillable vape or a pod system? After trying both, I want to share my personal experience to help you make the best choice for your needs. Which one would be best for new vapers? But the thing is I can't tell you one from the other type of vape; it's your preference that would suit you. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.

What Are Pod Vapes(closed system)
Pod vapes are simple ,quick and available in different flavours. Most come with pre-filled cartridges that snap into place, and you’re ready to vape in seconds. No buttons, no e-liquid, no maintenance ,no mess, no need to do anything just need to open . If you're new and want something quick, clean, and easy to use, pod vapes are a great for starting point and it's your choice you can use for long but this will little expensive.
They’re perfect for people who:

  • Want a discreet and compact device
  • Don’t want to deal with filling e-liquid
  • Prefer hassle-free vaping

But there's a downside. These pods often don’t last long and can become expensive over time. You're also limited in flavors and nicotine strengths since you’re stuck with the brand’s selection.

What About Refillable Vapes( open system)
Refillable vapes offer more freedom you can make your customized. Instead of replacing an entire pod, you refill a tank with the e-liquid of your choice. At first, this might feel a bit difficult especially when you’re new but it becomes second nature pretty quickly. What I loved about refillable was:

  • More control over nicotine strength
  • Endless e-liquid flavors to explore
  • Better vapor production and taste
  • Lower cost in the long term

You’ll need to clean your device occasionally and learn how to change the coil, but that becomes part of the routine. For those who enjoy customizing their experience or want a more affordable solution over time, refillable are a strong choice. In short the difference are ---

Pros & Cons

Features

Refillable Vapes

Pod Vapes

 

 

 

Ease of Use

slightly learning

beginner-friendly

Cost Over Time

More affordable in the long term

Higher ongoing cost (pre-filled pods)

Flavor Variety

Huge selection of e-liquids

Limited to brand-specific pods

Maintenance

Needs cleaning & coil changes

no maintenance

Portability

Slightly bulkier

Ultra portable

Nicotine Options

Fully customizable

Often high-nicotine, limited options

Pod Vape Recommendation:

  • RELX Infinity, Vuse ePod, Juul – Easy plug-and-play options.
  • Uwell Caliburn, Vaporesso XROS, GeekVape Wenax – Great for learning without being too complex


Pod vapes are often the best first step for total beginners due to their convenience and ease of use.
But if you're okay with learning a bit and want flexibility, refillable vapes are a better long- term investment. 

Which One Should You Start With?
If you're someone who doesn’t like complex things and just wants a smooth, easy experience, start with a pod vape. Devices like RELX Infinity, Juul, or Vuse ePod are popular for a reason—they work right out of the box. 

But if you're open to a bit of a learning curve and want more control over flavour and budget, go for a refillable option like the Uwell Caliburn, Vaporesso XROS, or GeekVape Wenax.

Conclusion— we can't say use a pod vape, not a refillable vape, because it depends on your choice, which suits you; both have pros and cons. Only the thing is, pod systems are simple and beginner-friendly, but the catch is pods run out fast, while refillable ones offer better value and customization, can adjust with the airflow, and are less expensive than pod vapes. Many vapers actually start with pods and eventually transition to refillable once they're comfortable.

Take your time to try what suits your lifestyle. Whether you're choosing based on convenience, cost, or experience, the best vape is the one that keeps you off cigarettes and works for you.

REMEMBER— Vaping is for adult smokers looking to quit cigarettes. Always choose what's right for your health and local laws.