Types of Vapes In The UK

If you are new to vaping, see our beginner’s guide on How to Vape

Whether you're switching from smoking, upgrading your kit or just curious about what’s out there, understanding the different types of vapes can help you make the right choice. From sleek pod systems to powerful mods, each device offers something slightly different in terms of experience, maintenance and cost.

In this guide, we’ll break down the main types of vapes, explain how they work and highlight what’s currently legal in the UK. Keep in mind that vaping techniques also matter, which we explain in How to Inhale a Vape

1. Disposable Vapes (Now Banned in the UK)

Disposables were once the most popular entry point for new vapers. They came prefilled, pre-charged and ready to use straight out of the box. You simply puff until the battery or e-liquid runs out, then throw it away.

However, as of 2025, disposable vapes are banned in the UK. The ban was introduced due to concerns about environmental waste, underage access and poor recycling practices.

While you may still see disposable-style products being sold, legal alternatives must now be rechargeable and TPD-compliant, meaning no more than 2ml of e-liquid per pod and a maximum nicotine strength of 20mg.

If you liked the convenience of disposables, 6000 puff pod kits like the Lost Mary BM6000 offer a similar feel but with better value and much less waste.

2. Pod Systems

Pod vapes are compact, easy to use and ideal for everyday vaping. They consist of a small battery device paired with either prefilled or refillable pods.

There are two main types:

Closed pod systems
These use prefilled pods that click into place. Once the pod runs out, you replace it. This keeps things clean and simple.

Open pod systems
These allow you to refill the pod with your own e-liquid. They offer more freedom with flavour and nicotine strength but require a bit more care.

Pod systems are ideal for beginners or anyone who wants a low-maintenance vape without the size or complexity of a box mod. Many 6000 puff devices fall into this category, offering pod-based setups that are rechargeable and last a week or more.

3. Vape Pens

Vape pens are slim, cylindrical devices that typically feature a refillable tank and a built-in battery. They sit somewhere between a pod system and a mod kit in terms of size and performance.

Vape pens are a good step up if you want more vapour and stronger flavour than a pod kit can offer, but without the bulk of a full-sized mod. Most use replaceable coils and allow for either mouth-to-lung or direct-to-lung vaping depending on the model.

They are less common now with the rise of high-capacity pod systems, but still widely used by those who prefer classic tank-style vaping.

4. Box Mods and Advanced Kits

Mods are the powerhouses of the vape world. They come with advanced features like adjustable wattage, temperature control and swappable batteries. These devices pair with larger tanks that can hold more e-liquid and produce big clouds of vapour.

Mod kits are best suited for experienced users who want full control over their vape and don’t mind the extra size or complexity. You’ll need to manage batteries, choose compatible coils and adjust settings for the best results.

While they offer maximum performance, they also come with more maintenance and a steeper learning curve.

5. Big Puff Rechargeable Pod Kits

This is the new middle ground between disposables and mods. These devices offer:

• Rechargeable batteries

• Prefilled or refillable 2ml pods

• Up to 6000 puffs per device

• Mesh coils for consistent flavour

• USB-C charging

• Fully TPD-compliant design

They’re ideal for vapers who want something that just works. You get the long life of a mod without the complexity, and the convenience of a disposable without the waste.

Our 6000 Puff Vape collection includes the most popular and reliable options on the market, including devices from Lost Mary, Hayati, Drifter, Crystal and more.

These kits are perfect for daily use, holidays, commuting or anyone tired of replacing pods every couple of days.

Final Thoughts

There’s no single best vape for everyone. It depends on your lifestyle, experience level and how much effort you want to put into maintenance.

If you want something compact and reliable without constant topping up, a rechargeable pod-based device like those in our 6000 Puff Vape range offers the best balance of performance, value and simplicity.

Ready to upgrade? Explore the full collection today and find a vape that fits your life.