How To Choose A Vape Mod
What Are Vape Mods?
Why choose a vape mod?
There are many reasons why you should be choosing a vape mod over other e-cig kits. These include things like:
Vaping Experience
Most mods will allow you to use sub ohm coils. When used with an appropriate tank, your vape experience is very different compared to smaller, traditional devices. There are lots of sub-ohm tanks you can choose from, but they ultimately offer the same thing; more vapour. This really changes things up and allows the use of high VG e-liquids too.
More Control
Adjustable settings are a common theme with vape mods. This can be anything from basic VW (Variable Wattage), which lets you adjust the power sent to the coil, all the way through to more advanced features like TC (Temperature Control), which directly controls the temperature of your coil.
Battery Choice
One of the best reasons to own a vape mod is the choice of battery. Some use built-in batteries that vary in capacity to suit your needs. Others use removable batteries that can be single or dual. Most removable battery mods use an 18650 size, but there are some that use the larger, 21700 option.
Aesthetics
This isn’t important from a performance point of view, but is from a personal one. Most brands create great looking vape mods that come in all shapes, sizes and designs. Not all mods are created equal, so finding one that suits your style is something you should not overlook.
Why not choose a vape mod?
Despite being ideal for many, vape mods are not suitable for everyone. Specifically, if you are new to vaping and don’t yet need extra power or control, it may be better to choose something a little easier to use. You may also want to stay away if you prefer lower powered, compact e-cigs that take up less space. If this sounds like you, why not have a look at our Introduction To Vape Pods.
While you can find some cheap vape mods around, they remain more of an investment for existing vapers, representing better value over time.
Features of vape mods
Here we will take a deep dive into some of the features you can expect from vape mods. It is worth noting that not all of them will have these features, so make sure to read the product listing carefully before you buy:
Variable wattage or voltage
A basic setting, but one of the most important. This lets you change the power coming from the battery into the coil. Your ability to adjust this will vary greatly on the coil resistance. By changing the wattage or voltage, you can increase or decrease the amount of vapour created.
Temperature Control
This setting lets you adjust the temperature your coil operates at. This is only applicable to Ti (Titanium), Ni (Nickel) or SS (Stainless Steel) coils though, so make sure you have a compatible coil before trying to use this mode.
Coil resistance
Vape mods can use almost any coil resistance within reason. Sub-ohm coils that produce lots of vapour are most commonly used, but you can also use higher resistance options too if a lower power setting is preferred.
Safety
Because of the power output, mods come fitted with extensive safety options. This includes things like child safety locks to prevent accidental use by young children. The chipsets inside also help to regulate the voltage and charging currents inside the mod, which keeps you vaping safely.
Longevity
Some vape mods come with extra layers of durability. This includes the ability to withstand drops, dust and even water immersion in some cases. If you have a demanding outdoor job, or are prone to dropping things, this type of vape mod is an option. Some Geek vape mods like the Aegis Boost 2, or the VOOPOO ARGUS GT II suit this requirement.
Vape Mod Batteries
As mentioned earlier, there are different types of vape mod batteries. How long each one can last will vary based on the mAh capacity. Let’s have a quick look at some basic figures:
Built-in Batteries
Generally available in 3000mAh or 5000mAh capacities, these mods do not have a battery you can remove to charge. A 3000mAh battery can last up to a day with moderate use before it needs to be recharged. A 5000mAh battery can last 1.5-2 days with moderate use before charging.
18650 Batteries
These are the most common removable battery used in vape mods, and the most readily available. Generally offered between 2100-3000mAh capacity, each one can last 8–10 hours with moderate use.
21700 Batteries
The larger cousin to the 18650, 21700 batteries are bigger and more powerful. Usually around, 4000mAh capacity, you can get up to 1.25 days of moderate use before having to recharge them.
Types of vape mods
Box Mods
These are named as such because they are a box shape. These are the most popular style of vape mod and usually pack a wide range of features. They come in a variety of sizes, styles and battery capacities, as well as different technology inside. Have a look at the TECC arc 5 for a fantastic every day box mod, or why not try the Eleaf iStick Power i80 or the SMOK Morph 3 for something more a bit more advanced.
Pod Mods
Pod mods are pod e-cigs that offer advanced features to give you ultimate power and also offer a better battery life. They are more like an advanced mod, with a pod rather than a tank. Pod mods are great for existing vapers that need a kit with more power with changeable power settings that can be refined to suit the personal needs of the user. Some great examples are the SMOK RPM 5 and Eleaf iSOLO AIR 2.
Mech Mods
Mech mod is short for a mechanical mod and are e-cigs that have no vape settings. They are essentially a metal tube that holds a removable battery and can have a tank attached on top. While not as popular any more, if you do get yourself one, then you need to know about your coil resistance and Ohm’s Law, as these are strictly for advanced vapers and typically sought after by cloud chasers seeking more power.
Squonk Mods
Imagine a box mod that has a hole cut in the side, behind that hole is a squishy large capacity bottle (usually 8-10ml) that is filled with e-liquid. This bottle is connected by a small tube to the bottom of an RDA. You squeeze the bottle through the hole, and it pushes e-liquid up the small tube onto the cotton of the dripper. This is a squonk mod. Again these are not as popular as they once were, but make sure you understand Ohm’s Law as these are also for advanced vapers.
Best Vape Mods
Wondering which vape mod will be best for you? Here’s a rundown of the best vape mods for your needs:
Best vape mods for beginners
If you are still quite new to vaping, then it would be a good idea to start off with something a little simpler and easier to use. You should have a look at the TECC arc Impact, OXVA Xlim Pro or Lost Mary Tappo. These mods offer either variable wattage, variable voltage, or both. They are a good choice for beginners looking to take a step into the world of vape mods.
Best vape mod for stealth vapers
Want to try a vape mod but don’t want it to be too conspicuous? Then we would recommend the TECC arc 5, Vaporesso XROS Mini or VLTZ re:fuel. These e-cigs are more compact to fit inside your pocket. They are also less obvious when being used outdoors which is ideal for stealth vapers.
Best vape mod for clouds
Sometimes, all you want to do is exhale large clouds of vapour. If that sounds like you, then you need to check out the Eleaf iStick i75, Eleaf iStick Power 2 or TECC arc Impact. Aimed at advanced vapers, these kits have all the settings and adjustments you need to create those large clouds. They are also very powerful, being able to use low resistance sub-ohm coils.
Best vape mod for travelling
If you’ve been bitten by the travel bug, then you need a vape mod that can fit your lifestyle. We would suggest trying the Eleaf iStick Power Mono, TECC arc Mini 2 or Innokin Adept. They are all relatively compact (great for a backpack).
Best vape mod for looks
In some cases, you just want an e-cig that looks great. If you want something that’s all about the looks, but still performs well, check out the Eleaf iStick Power Mono, Innokin Coolfire Z80, TECC arc 5S.
Help to choose a vape mod
Ready to find your new vape mod? Be sure to visit our vape mods page and check out the latest releases. If you need help, be sure to contact our customer service team on 01254 269380, or use the live chat function to the bottom right of your screen.