Cloud vs convenience, who wins?
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RDAs and RTAs are tanks that you build yourself. But in a world of convenience, where easy to use disposables are king, is there any place for rebuildable coils? We’re going to have a look at the differences between the three main tank types. So without further ado, let’s take a look at RDAs vs vape tanks and see who wins!
What is an RDA?
RDA stands for Rebuildable Dripping Atomizer. As can be seen from the name, RDAs feature rebuildable coils and you drip the liquid onto the cotton directly. Most RDA vapers build their own coils using various types of wire. But, you can buy them pre-built for convenience.
RDAs are designed to be used in short bursts and deliver intense flavour and lots of vapour.
Pros
- Intense flavour production
- Large cloud production
- Can be cheaper than pre-built
Cons
- Time consuming
- Requires knowledge of coil building and wicking
- Requires constant dripping of liquid onto the coil
- MTL coils are much harder to find
What is an RTA?
RTA stands for Rebuildable Tank Atomizer. RTAs are the middle ground between an RDA and a traditional vape tank. They offer the same functionality as an RDA, but instead of dripping liquid onto the cotton directly they are housed within a tank. So, this is a great time saver if you’re out and about and don’t want to be stopping every few draws to drip your liquid.
Pros
- Intense flavour production
- Large cloud production
- Can be cheaper than pre-built
- More convenient than an RDA
Cons
- Requires knowledge of coil building and wicking
- Limited to a tanks worth of the same flavour, rather than being able to drip a new one instantly
- Harder to source new coils if it burns when you’re out and about
- MTL coils are much harder to find
What is a Traditional Vape Tank?
Traditional vape tanks refer to tanks that use pre-built coils that screw or push fit into the tank. Generally, traditional vape coils are widely available from most vape shops, and there are various brands and resistances available. Also, pre-built coils are much more convenient to use and can be changed quickly on the go. Pre-built coils are also much easier to source for MTL vapers.
Pros
- Good flavour production
- Available in MTL and DL to suit vaping style
- Great amounts of vapour, depending on resistance
- Easier to buy
- Easier to change
- No advanced knowledge of coil building needed
Cons
- Lacks the enjoyment of building coils for hobbyists
- Flavour not quite as strong as rebuildable coils
- Can be more expensive
RDAs vs Vape Tanks – Who Wins?
In a world of convenience, vape tanks win hands down. They’re easier to find, maintain and use. Plus, they’re available in so many styles and coil types that any vaper can find a tank that suits exactly what they want. Also, with the ever advancing capabilities of sub-ohm tanks, they’re almost as flavourful as buildable coils, without the faff.
I’m not saying that RDAs are bad, but they’re certainly a niche that’s reserved for hobbyists. Mainly due to the fact that they require advanced knowledge to build and maintain. Still can’t be beaten on flavour though.
What are the Best Sub-ohm Tanks?
Here at The Electronic Cigarette Company, we don’t currently stock and RDAs or RTAs. Mainly because we like to offer customers a hassle free vaping experience. And, as I stated earlier, sub-ohm tanks have advanced to the point where they’re as near as can be to RDAs and RTAs.
Here’s a list of my 5 favourite sub-ohm tanks.
5. Eleaf ELLO Tank
| Coil Type | HW |
| Available Resistances | 0.15 mesh, 0.2 & 0.3 |
| Price | £24.99 |
The Eleaf ELLO tank takes HW coils, which are available in a variety of resistances.
The coils are very reliable and produce great flavour. Undeniably, my personal favourites are the HW-M 0.15 mesh coils, which produce fantastic flavour and a decent amount of vapour.
The ELLO tank features a sliding top fill, which is very convenient.
4. SMOK TFV18 Mini Tank
SMOKs TFV18 Mini tank is pretty standard for a SMOK tank. Brilliant flavour and vapour production. As well as an easy to use swing open top fill.
The coils available are 0.15ohm, 0.2ohm and 0.3ohm.
TFV18 minis cost a modest £19.49.
| Coil Type | V18 Mini |
| Available Resistances | 0.15, 0.2 & 0.3 |
| Price | £19.49 |
3. VOOPOO PnP Pod Tank
| Coil Type | PnP |
| Available Resistances | 0.15, 0.2, 0.3, 0.6 0.8 & 1.0 |
| Price | £9.99 |
The VOOPOO PnP Pod is featured on a lot of popular VOOPOO kits such as the DRAG S and DRAG X. This tank is basically a 510 connection that supports the pods.
PnP coils have a reputation for being good. They carry the flavour of liquid really well. They’re also available in a variety of resistances, meaning most vapers will find a PnP coil for them.
The PnP coils can can be bought for £12.99 for a pack of five.
The tank costs a modest £9.99.
2. GeekVape Z Tank
The GeekVape Z tank, formerly the Zeus tank, is a powerful DL tank.
It features a quarter turn lift off filling cap and a top dual airflow.
Also, this tank produces plenty of vapour and carries immense flavour. This tank has been praised by a lot of vapours, and it’s for good reason.
Also, the Z series coils are available in three resistances and cost £10.49 for a pack of five.
| Coil Type | Z series |
| Available Resistances | 0.15 mesh, 0.2, 0.4 |
| Price | £23.99 |
1. VOOPOO MAAT Tank
| Coil Type | TPP |
| Available Resistances | 0.15 mesh & 0.2 |
| Price | £19.99 |
As I have said in reviews, the VOOPOO MAAT Tank is my personal favourite tank. Mainly because the flavour from the coils is consistent and it produces a very satisfying amount of vapour.
This tank was first released with my kit, the ARGUS GTII, but now features on the ARGUS MT and ARGUS XT.
Filling this tank is simple, due to the quarter turn lift off top. Around the filling holes is a membrane that helps prevent liquid leakage. Also, the airflow on this tank is adjusted with a switch at the bottom of the tank.
And there you have it! Hopefully we’ve managed to answer any questions regardingRDAs vs Vape Tanks.
