Definitive Guide to Vape Pod vs. Vape Tank

Inhaling vaporized nicotine instead of burning tobacco dates back several decades. In 2003, Hon Lik created an alternative to smoking after his father died of lung cancer. It was modern e-cigarettes.

Early devices were called "Cigalikes" because they resembled cigarettes. Around 2010, vape pods and vape tanks were launched one after another. Combined with innovative atomizers, they enable users to adjust power, airflow, and coil resistance for an enhanced vaping experience and flavor.

Today, vape pods and vape tanks are mainstream. Both serve the same purpose—delivering nicotine and flavor through vapor—but they differ greatly in design, performance, and user experience. In this guide, we will outline the advantages and disadvantages of each type, enabling you to have the best possible vaping experience.

 

What’s the Difference Between Vape Pods and Vape Tanks?

Vape pods and vape tanks differ significantly in design, function, compatibility, and user experience. Their most critical difference is customisation versus convenience.

Vape pods are integrated, all-in-one systems found in pod systems or disposable vapes. They are meant to be simple and easy to carry, often including pre-filled or refillable cartridges that quickly lock into the device.

In contrast, vape tanks are incorporated in larger mods. They utilise a standard 510 connection, and the user can have more control over the device. Tanks are refillable and have interchangeable coils.

 

6 Differences in details:

 

1. Device Type Compatibility

• Pods typically have proprietary pod shapes (brand-specific) that are used with pod systems or pod mods.
• Due to its 510-thread connection, tanks are compatible across many brands, whether box mods or regulated vape mods.

2. E-Liquid Types

• Pods typically use nicotine salt e-liquid, which has a higher nicotine and a milder throat hit.
• Tanks are designed for freebase nicotine or high-VG e-liquids (for dense vapor).

3. Power Output

• With smaller coils, pods operate in the range of 7-30 watts.
• Vape tanks typically feature larger coils, which result in more vapor and stronger flavor intensity. You'll find their power exceeding 50 watts, sometimes even reaching over 200 watts.

4. Performance and Customization

• For pods, there are typically no wattage adjustments or airflow controls available. This range is designed with ease of use and portability in mind.
• Tanks are fully customizable (wattage, coils, airflow, drip tips, etc.), suitable for hobbyists who want more control over performance and flavor.

5. Maintenance

• Pods just replace the new one.
• Tanks require regular cleaning, coil changes, and manual refilling.

6. Size & Battery

• Pods are compact, lightweight, and pocket-friendly. Smaller batteries, but efficient due to lower power usage.
• Tanks are bulkier and heavier, especially with large mods. This means it needs bigger batteries to power higher wattages.

Vape Pods: Compact and User-Friendly

Vape pods are the best option for beginners and are mostly preferred due to their simplicity. They are compact and very easy to use.

 

Pros of Vape Pods

• Being lightweight, the devices can be carried around and used whenever needed.

• Everyone can use them; there are no complicated settings or coil arrangements.

• Vape pods are suited for e-liquids with nicotine salts and are helpful when you want to vape and have a strong hit of nicotine.

• For maintenance, prefilled vape pods require virtually no effort at all.

Cons of Vape Pods

• Customisation is limited. 

• The more advanced vapers might feel that the vape pods are unsatisfying because they produce less vapor.

Who are Vape Pods for

Vape pods are well-suited for beginners. They are easy to use and compact. They are amazing for advanced users who want a smaller, more compact vaping device as a backup.

 

Vape Tanks: Power and Customisation

The features in a vape tank allow for a more hands-on vaping experience. They work with mighty box mods and let you customise the airflow and resistance for a more tailored vaping experience.

 

Benefits

• Customization: Adjust the vapor density and airflow to your liking.

• Bigger e-Liquid tank capacity: Boom tanks can be great for all-day vaping.

• Replaceable coils: mesh, ceramic, and standard coils for enhanced vaping filtration.

• Better vapor and flavor production: Tanks generally produce a much better flavor and vapor than pods.

Drawbacks

• They are bulkier and are less portable.

Who Should Choose Tanks?

If you are an intermediate or advanced vaper who enjoys experimenting with different e-liquids and coils, a vape tank system is ideal for you.

 

Vape Starter Kits: The Middle Ground

If you’re unsure which option is the best, vape starter kits offer the best balance. In recent years, most vape starter kits have offered a blend between the portable nature of a pod system and the performance of a tank. One can appreciate the best of both worlds—a system that is simple and user-friendly with customised options.

Vape starter kits are usually all-in-one packages that have everything you need to get into the hobby of vaping. This includes the mod, the tank or pod, replacement coils, and all the charging equipment. This balance of features and simplicity is appreciated by experienced vapers as well. For people with limited financial resources, starter kits become both rational and handy choices.

 

Conclusion

Your priorities are the only determining factor when deciding between a vape pod and a vape tank. Vape pods are renowned for their simplicity, portability, and convenience, making them an ideal choice for beginners or those seeking a low-maintenance option. On the other hand, vape tanks cater to users who value power, customization, and a more intense vaping experience.