If you’re comparing the Lost Mary BM6000 and the Elf Bar AF5500, you’re looking at two of the UK’s most popular next-generation vape kits. With disposable vapes now banned from sale, both of these devices have stepped in to offer a legal alternative that still delivers strong flavour, satisfying performance and convenient use.
While they might look similar at first glance, there are some key differences that might sway your decision one way or the other. This guide breaks down how these two devices compare across battery life, flavour strength, refill systems, and overall experience.
What they have in common
Both devices were designed to replace single-use disposables and provide a longer-lasting, refillable experience. They’re both compatible with UK vaping laws, meaning they use 20 milligrams per millilitre of nicotine salt and a 2ml pod capacity at any one time.
Each device comes with a refill bottle of 10ml e-liquid, allowing you to top up your pod multiple times. They both use mesh coil technology for improved flavour delivery and faster heating. They’re also rechargeable via USB-C, which is now the standard for most modern vape kits.
So, both the Lost Mary BM6000 and the Elf Bar AF5500 aim to offer a similar experience on paper, but they do so in slightly different ways.
Battery and charging differences
One of the main differences between these two devices is battery size.
The Elf Bar AF5500 is fitted with a 1000mAh battery, giving it a little more staying power between charges. It’s designed for vapers who use their device heavily throughout the day and don’t want to worry about recharging frequently.
The Lost Mary BM6000 typically has a smaller battery, around 650mAh in many versions, though some special editions may feature a higher capacity. While this is still enough for most users to get through the day, heavier vapers might find they need to charge it more often.
That said, the BM6000 charges fairly quickly and some versions include a small screen that shows battery level, which the AF5500 does not. That extra bit of feedback can be helpful if you want to know exactly how much battery life is left before heading out.
Puff count and usage
Both devices claim to offer thousands of puffs. The Lost Mary BM6000 is marketed at around 6000 puffs per full refill bottle, while the Elf Bar AF5500 aims for about 5500. In real-life use, puff count varies depending on how long you inhale, how often you vape and how well the coil holds up.
The puff numbers should not be taken too literally. They’re a guide rather than a guarantee, and your own usage will determine how long the device lasts. In general, both will give several days of use for a moderate vaper and possibly a full week for someone who vapes lightly.
Flavour delivery and intensity
This is where things really start to differ.
Lost Mary BM6000 flavours are known for being punchy and intense. Many include icy or sour twists that create a strong initial impact and a lasting aftertaste. The mesh coil hits hard from the first puff and most users say they get a bold experience from the get-go.
Elf Bar flavours, on the other hand, tend to be slightly more balanced. The sweetness is smoother, the cooling effect is often lighter and the blends are a bit more refined. If you prefer a cleaner, softer taste that you can use all day without overwhelming your palate, the AF5500 might suit you better.
If you enjoy fruit flavours with a noticeable chill or sharp twist, the BM6000 might be your best pick. If you prefer smoother fruit blends or classic profiles like blueberry, mint or cola, the Elf Bar pod range might feel more familiar.
Refill and pod system
Both devices come with a 2ml prefilled pod and a 10ml refill bottle. You top up your pod as needed using the bottle. Once the bottle is empty, you can either buy a new refill for the same device or replace the entire unit, depending on how long the coil has lasted.
With the BM6000, the pod is sometimes replaceable depending on the version. This can help extend the life of the battery section and reduce waste. The AF5500, on the other hand, is often used until the pod performance fades, at which point the whole kit is typically replaced.
For more help with refilling and pod usage, see our full Lost Mary BM6000 Consumer Guide.
Device design and usability
Both devices are compact, pocket-friendly and easy to use. Neither includes a power button. Instead, they’re activated by simply inhaling through the mouthpiece.
The BM6000 has a slightly more curved shape and, in some models, includes a digital display showing battery and liquid levels. This small screen is useful for tracking when to refill or recharge, and it gives the BM6000 a more premium feel.
The AF5500 keeps things simple. It has an LED indicator for battery life but no screen. It’s easy to use and less likely to distract with extra features.
Coil life and flavour fade
Over time, all vape coils lose some performance. The more you vape, especially with strong or sweet flavours, the faster the coil will wear out.
Users report that Lost Mary BM6000 flavours tend to hold strong for several days, especially when used steadily with time for the coil to re-saturate. However, because the flavour is intense, the drop in quality can feel more noticeable once the coil begins to fade.
Elf Bar flavours are less punchy but stay consistent over time. This means that while they don’t start as bold, they maintain their smoothness longer and feel more stable day to day.
Which one is better?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on what you want from your vape.
Go for the Lost Mary BM6000 if you:
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Enjoy strong fruit and ice flavours
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Want a visual display for battery and liquid
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Prefer replaceable pods or longer flexibility
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Like bold flavour from the first puff
Choose the Elf Bar AF5500 if you:
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Prefer smoother, more subtle flavour profiles
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Want longer battery life
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Value simple usability without extra features
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Enjoy lighter sweetness and gentler cooling
Final thoughts
Both the Lost Mary BM6000 and the Elf Bar AF5500 offer excellent performance, smooth nicotine delivery and legal compliance in the UK. Each has strengths depending on your vaping style and flavour preferences.
If you want a punchy, flavour-forward vape with strong hits and handy display features, the BM6000 is the better choice. If you value a clean, balanced vape with longer battery life and no fuss, the AF5500 will serve you well.
To explore the current flavour options and latest BM6000 kits, visit our Lost Mary BM6000 collection for full details. Let me know if you’d like a cost comparison guide, flavour pairing advice or a deep dive on coil performance next.
For another comparison, see Lost Mary BM6000 vs Hayati Pro Max+ to help you choose the right pod system.
If you're focused on flavour differences, check how Lost Mary BM6000 flavours compare to Elf Bar Pods.
