The Ultimate Guide to Vape Pods

With the popularity of vapes multiplying by the day, their users need to have a deep understanding of their components, especially their pods. Being the heart of the device, the mechanism of vape pods varies with each device, but the components remain the same. They are affordable and offer a customised vaping experience to the users. If you have just stepped into the vaping world or have been using one for years, dive into this guide on vape pods to know what a vape pod is, what its core components are, and how to use them effectively for an enhanced vaping experience.

By Nick Nortcliffe

Published on June 06, 2025

GUide on Vape Pods

Let's first start with the very basic thing.

What Is a Vape Pod?

A vape pod is a small, removable cartridge that holds your e-liquid and usually contains the coil that heats it. Pods connect to the main device, often called the pod kit, using magnets or snap-fit connectors, making them easy to swap out. Unlike traditional vape tanks, pods are designed specifically for their kits and often come pre-filled or refillable. When the coil inside the pod wears out, you simply replace the whole pod, which keeps things simple and convenient. This makes vape pods a great choice for beginners or anyone who wants flavourful vapour without the hassle of rebuilding or complicated setups.

Types of Pod Vapes

Pods come in two main types:

  • Closed system or Pre-filled Pods: Pods which are prefilled and disposable. They come with e-liquid and are supposed to be disposed of once the e-liquid runs out.
  • Open system or Refillable Pods: These pods allow users to refill the e-liquid themselves. Once the e-juice runs out, you can easily fill the pod again to continue vaping. Such pods allow users to customise their vaping experience in terms of flavours and nicotine levels.

Refillable pods come with different refilling designs, like Vaporesso Xros pods, which have a top-fill design. They are the industry pioneers who introduced top-fill pods. They also come in side-fill and bottom-fill designs. For instance, OXVA Xlim pods also come with side-fill and top-fill designs.

Who Are Vape Pods For?

  • New vapers: Newbies prefer prefilled pods, which save them the hassle of refilling a vape pod. They just assemble the pod to the vape device, unbox it, and inhale from the mouthpiece to start vaping.
  • Cost-conscious users: Such users go for refillable pods so once their vape runs out of vape juice, they can fill it again with their favourite e-liquid and continue vaping.
  • Experienced vapers: They like vaping with refillable pods as they offer a customised vaping experience through a variety of e-liquids and nicotine strengths.

How to Use a Replacement Pod

Using a replacement pod is hassle-free and straightforward. First, make sure your device is turned off or cooled down to avoid accidental burns or damage. Then, carefully pull out the old pod; there is no need to yank it hard; it should come out easily. Before inserting the new one, give it a quick check.

If it’s refillable, make sure it’s properly filled and there aren’t any leaks. Align the new pod with your device’s slot, then gently press it in until it feels snug and secure. Once it’s in place, power your device back on. Take a few gentle draws to get the new pod working smoothly. You might notice a brief break-in period, so don’t worry if the flavour isn’t perfect right away. Treat your pods with a little care; they’ll keep your experience fresh and satisfying every time you switch.

How to Refill a Vape Pod

  1. Take the empty pod and battery device out of the box.
  2. Find the pod's filling port, which can be on the top, bottom, or side.
  3. Remove the silicone stopper from the filling port and add your favourite e-liquid.
  4. Let the pod rest for 5 minutes so the coil can get fully saturated.
  5. Attach it to the battery device. Make sure it is secured tightly so no leakage occurs.
  6. Push the Power button.
  7. Inhale from the mouthpiece to start vaping.

How Long Do Vape Pods Last?

The lifespan of vape pods varies. Prefilled pods generally last 1 to 3 days, depending on how much you vape and the strength of the e-liquid. Their short lifespan is because they cannot be filled again. On the other hand, open-system pods can be refilled multiple times and, therefore, have a longer lifespan of 1-2 weeks and can be used until the coil burns out.

Here are a few factors that you must keep an eye on if you want to extend your pod’s lifespan:

  • Frequency of use
  • Type and thickness of e-liquid (higher VG liquids can clog coils faster)

Best E-Liquid and Nicotine Strength for Your Vape Pod

One of the coolest things about open system pod devices is how flexible they are. You’re not locked into one type of e-liquid, which means you can experiment and find exactly what suits your taste buds.

Pods with Coil Resistance Above 1.0 Ohm (MTL Pods)

If you prefer a tighter, more cigarette-like draw, mouth-to-lung (MTL) pods with coil resistance above 1.0 ohm are your go-to. These pods work best with e-liquids that have a higher nicotine strength—think 12mg and above—and a thicker, smoother PG-heavy blend. The higher resistance means less vapour but more flavour focus and throat hit, making it perfect for those who want that satisfying puff without overwhelming clouds.

Pods with Coil Resistance Below 1.0 Ohm (DTL Pods)

For vapers who love big, dense clouds and a direct-to-lung (DTL) experience, pods with coil resistance under 1.0 ohm are the way to go. These low-resistance coils need thinner, VG-rich e-liquids to keep the airflow smooth and produce thick vapour. Nicotine levels here are usually lower, around 3mg to 6mg, so you get that satisfying hit without harshness. It’s all about chasing clouds while keeping the flavour vibrant.

Prefilled Pods

Prefilled pods are suitable for a balanced PG/VG ratio, like 50/50 blends, for these pods. These juices provide a nice combo of flavour and vapour production without leaning too heavily on either side. Nicotine strength can be flexible here, catering to beginners and experienced vapers who want a smooth, adaptable experience.

Pro Tip: Using the right VG/PG ratio for your pod’s coil type helps prevent coil burnout and prolongs coil life, saving you money and improving your vaping experience.

How to Make Your Vape Pods Last Longer

Vape pods can be a bit fragile, but with a little care, you can stretch their lifespan and avoid constantly swapping them out. Here are some simple tips to help you get the most from your pods:

Don’t Overfill Your Pod:

Filling your pod right up is tempting, but going over the limit often leads to leaks. The coil gets soaked when you fill too much, and juice can leak out through the airflow holes. This is a common reason pods start leaking, so just leave a bit of space at the top when you fill it, or else you will always keep on searching ‘why is my vape pod leaking’.

Pick the Right Juice:

Pods usually work best with nicotine salts or thinner liquids with lower VG. Using thick or high-VG juice can gunk up the coil faster and shorten the pod’s life. To keep your pod happy, stick to the juices that are recommended for it.

Keep Your Pods Upright:

When you’re not using your vape, store it standing up. This stops the juice from pooling in places it shouldn’t, which can cause leaks or flooding. It’s a simple trick but really effective.

Prime Your Coil Before You Vape:

When you pop in a new pod, don’t jump right in. Give the coil some time to soak up the juice first. Waiting 5 to 10 minutes after filling helps avoid dry hits and keeps the coil from burning out too soon.

How to Clean a Vape Pod?

Over time, leftover e-liquid residue can build up inside your pod, messing with the flavour and making the coil work harder. Cleaning your pod now and then can keep things tasting fresh and help your pod last longer. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Take the pod out of your device.
  2. Remove the vape juice from the pod that’s left inside the cartridge.
  3. Rinse the pod gently with warm water—just be careful not to soak the coil.
  4. Clean the mouthpiece and the contacts where the pod connects to your device with a cotton swab or a paper towel.
  5. Let it air dry completely before refilling or reinstalling.

Cleaning regularly helps prevent gunk buildup, which can cause muted flavour or clogging.

How to Empty a Vape Pod

Sometimes, you want to switch flavours or remove old juice. Here’s the easy way:

  1. Pull the pod out of your device.
  2. Locate the filling port (usually a small rubber plug).
  3. Carefully open the port and tip the pod upside down to pour out the remaining liquid.
  4. You can also gently blow through the mouthpiece to clear leftover vapour or juice.

Knowing how to empty a vape pod properly helps you avoid mixing flavours and keeps your pods clean.

Conclusion

We’ve covered all the essentials about replacement cartridges, from the basics to tips on filling, cleaning, and making them last longer. Whether you’re just starting or have been vaping for years, choosing the right pod can make all the difference to your experience.

Still feeling a bit unsure about which pod is right for you? Don’t worry! Just get in touch with our friendly team through customer support or email, and we’ll help you find your perfect match. Your best vape experience is just a message away!

Nick Nortcliffe

Nick Nortcliffe – Vape Product Reviewer

Store Manager & Content Writter

Nick Nortcliffe runs the Alectrofag shop in Old Swan, Liverpool, where he’s been helping people switch from smoking to vaping for over six years. Having quit a 30-a-day cigarette habit himself back in 2014, Nick knows exactly how tough it can be, and how worth the switch really is. That experience helps him connect with customers on a real level, offering advice that comes from someone who’s been there.