Best Vape Pens

Table of Contents

• 1. Introduction
• 2. What is a Vape Pen?
• 3. Types of Vape Pens
• 4. Anatomy of a Vape Pen
• 5. How to Use a Vape Pen
• 6. Vape Pen Benefits
• 7. Best Vape Pens of 2021
• 8. How to Choose

Introduction to Vape Pens

Convenient, portable, and versatile vape pens are a popular device choice for new and seasoned vapers alike. With options available from just about every brand and spanning a broad range of styles, features, and price points, there are literally hundreds of vape pen types to choose from – so how do you pick the best one?

DIRECTVAPOR has you covered with a tell-all guide that answers all the questions you have about vape pens and probably even a few you’ve never considered.

Then, we’ll wrap up the guide with the topic you’ve been waiting for: the best vape pens of 2021. Whether you’re a first-timer searching for a starter option or an experienced enthusiast that wants an on-the-go vape, consider this the go-to resource you need to shop smart and vape happy.

What is a Vape Pen?

A vape pen is a battery-powered device that is used to heat liquids, concentrates, and some solids to a specific temperature high enough to cause moisture to vaporize. Known as a vape pen, pen-style vape, or vaporizer pen; this style of vaporizer device is essentially exactly what it sounds like: a vape that’s about the size and shape of a pen.

Vape pens can be used with standard e-liquids, or they can be paired with dry herbs and concentrates (depending on the device type). Because they’re usually very affordable and easy to operate, vape pens are one of the most popular types of vape on the market today.

If you were arranging vape devices on a spectrum based on performance and complexity, vape pens would fall right in the middle. They’re more sophisticated than a basic e-cigarette but typically simpler than the more advanced vape mods out there. In other words, vape pens can be an ideal balance between quality performance and user-friendly simplicity.

Types of Vape Pens

There are different vape pen types, some of which are designed to be used in very specific ways. You’ll want to have a basic understanding of the different kinds of vape pens available so that you can choose yours accordingly.

Disposable Vape Pens

Disposable vape pens are a “one and done” device. They are pre-filled with e-liquid or concentrate and can be used either until the built-in battery runs out of life or the contents have been finished.

Rechargeable Vape Pens

Rechargeable vape pens are designed to be reusable. You can refill and recharge this type of vape pen. You can choose one that’s paired with refillable pods/cartridges, single-use pre-filled pods/cartridges, or built with a chamber that you fill with your preferred material.

Dry Herb Vape Pens

Dry herb vape pens are compatible with dry herbs and are commonly preferred by individuals who vape hemp.

Concentrate Vape Pens

Concentrate vape pens can be used with concentrate products, such as CBD concentrates.

Three-in-one Vape Pens

Three-in-one vape pens let you vape e-liquids, concentrates, or dry herbs without swapping out your device.

Beyond this, there are also many different vape pen brands and models. Options range from very inexpensive, no-frills vape pens to those with a higher price and high-performance features.

Parts of a Vape Pen

Once you break down the anatomy of a vape pen, it’s much easier to understand how a vape pen works. In general, all vape pens have the same basic components

Battery

The battery is the source of a vape pen’s power. Once it’s powered on, it activates the heating element within the device.

Vape batteries aren’t the same as the random batteries you have lying around your house; they’re made to a far higher standard of quality. A vape battery is engineered to charge and discharge at a higher rate (for performance purposes), which makes it important to follow all device guidelines.

Most vape pens use internal (built-in) batteries, which last fairly long in between recharging.

Coil

Vape coils are made with metals that “resist” electricity, which generates heat within the metal. This heat is then used to warm up your e-liquid, herb, or concentrate until it vaporizes. There are many different types of vape coils.

Wick

Vape wicks (commonly made of cotton or rayon) soak up the e-liquid, bringing it to where it can be heated up by the coil. E-liquid continuously moves upward through the wick, providing a steady supply for vaporization until it runs out.

As the coil is heated and the liquid is vaporized, more liquid must be brought upward to prevent dry hits and burning. A quality wick will perform quickly and with no change in taste. The most common wicks are made of cotton or rayon and have been created with vaping in mind.

Atomizer

Atomizers are a single unit that contains both the wick and coil. It may feature a pre-made coil that must be replaced, or it may allow for the user to replace necessary components within the device when they fail. A pre-made coil offers simplicity while a rebuildable unit favors those with a budget in mind.

Chamber

The chamber is what holds the material for your vape pen (e-liquid, concentrate, etc.). Some vape pens are designed to be used with pre-filled cartridges, while others have a chamber that you’ll fill yourself.

Power Button

As you’d probably guess, the power button is used to turn on the vape pen. It also serves as the central control for the device, allowing you to fire the vape pen, select available features/adjustments, and even check the battery with ease.

Mouthpiece

You’ll use the mouthpiece to puff the vapor produced by the device. Mouthpieces tend to come in two general sizes (510 and 810) but can vary from brand to brand. There are countless styles and variations of tips to choose from once you become familiar with your device.

Fill Port

The fill port is located on a tank or liquid reservoir and will allow you to add more liquid to your device. They are often padded with silicone and will most commonly be on the top of wherever they are needed.

Charging Port

Vape pens are rechargeable, with most using a USB micro cable. The charging port will allow you to connect a power or USB cord to your device. This port is used to charge the battery and is usually placed in a prominent location for ease of use.

Airflow Control

An airflow control allows you to change the amount of air moving in and out of your atomizer. Personal preference is the main motivator behind airflow adjustments, and our needs can be as unique as we are.

Threading

The threading on a device refers to the way an "atomizer" will attach to your vape pen. The most common is a recessed 510 connection. Still available and in use today the "Ego" style of threading is not recessed and utilizes a beauty ring of sorts to hide the connection. 

How To Use a Vape Pen

So, how does a vape pen work?

It’s actually pretty simple: first, the wick soaks up a small amount of e-liquid, putting it into close contact with the heating component (usually a coil). Then, the heating component warms up the e-liquid until it vaporizes. The light, fluffy vapor moves into the device’s mouthpiece, where you can inhale the voluminous, usually flavored clouds.

Vape Pen Benefits

There are plenty of perks to using a vape pen, which is why they are a favorite for vapers of all experience levels and vape styles. We could easily write a whole article on the benefits of vape pens alone, but here’s a quick summary just to give you an idea of what to look forward to:

Budget-friendly

Pen vaporizers are usually much less expensive than their larger counterparts, the vape mod. In fact, you can even find a fantastic vape pen for $50 or less. If you’re new to vaping, pens are an affordable entry point. For more experienced vapers, the low cost of vape pens makes it simple to add one to a collection of devices.

Lightweight and portable

If you want to take vaping on the go, it doesn’t get any easier than a vape pen. They can be slipped into a pocket or purse and take up virtually no room.

Discreet

Vaping doesn’t produce the traditionally odorous smoke of cigarettes, so that alone reduces unwanted attention. And because vape pens are so compact, they are the ultimate in discretion.

A customizable vape experience

Depending on the vape pen you choose, you may have the ability to calibrate specific settings, such as temperature. This allows you to create your ideal vape session every time.

Former smokers often appreciate an experience

Because a vape pen is somewhat similar to the size and shape of a cigarette and can be paired with nicotine e-liquids, it can provide a comfortable and familiar sensation for former smokers.

The Best Vape Pens of 2021

1. Vaporesso SKY SOLO Plus

A first-class vape pen for under $20? It’s not too good to be true; Vaporesso’s SKY SOLO Plus sets you up with all the necessities for an exceptional vape experience without extra features to add to the price tag. The pen’s e-liquid chamber is built into the top of the device, which is an innovative design choice and one that makes this vape especially easy to work with. It holds up to 8mL of vape juice, and the single-button control interface lets you focus on enjoying yourself.

2. Innokin Endura T18

The Innokin Endura T18 features premium construction materials such as using stainless steel, Pyrex glass, and Japanese organic cotton – and the quality is obvious at every angle. When you purchase the starter kit, you’ll receive the Prism airflow tank, which is sure to impress with its famous airflow technology, smart twist-top fill design, and the Prism T18 1.5ohm coil. A Delrin drip tip is also included, so you’ll be starting your vape in style.

3. SMOK Stik X8

This SMOK vape pen boasts high-end mod performance, delivering big benefits in a small, convenient package. It pairs with the SMOK X-V8 Baby Brother Tank offering powerful cloud production, excellent flavor, smooth top airflow, and a solid 4mL e-liquid capacity. With the starter kit, you’ll get two different coil types, so you can experiment to find your perfect vape happy place.

4. Vaporesso XROS 2

Counted among the DIRECTVAPOR customer favorites, the XROS2 from Vaporesso has a deceivingly simple look – but it definitely doesn’t skimp on performance. It works with both MESH and regular pods, with various options for firing mods, wattage, and airflow adjustments. The magnetic pod connection eliminates the frustration that comes from fiddling with vape parts, so you can spend more time vaping and less time setting up. For the minimalist at heart, the understated design of the XROS 2 is a match made in style heaven.

5. SMOK Vape Pen V2

Impressively efficient and easy for beginners to master, it’s easy to see why the SMOK Vape Pen V2 is a classic favorite. The adjustable airflow system is a key perk for vapers who like to customize their vape, and the convenience of the long-lasting 1600 mAh battery and refillable 3mL e-liquid capacity is also a win. SMOK’s signature protective features (including safeguards against short-circuiting and low voltage) are an added layer of performance. Sleek, stylish, and made in a great range of colors, the SMOK V2 is a fabulous choice.

How To Choose The Right Vape Pen for You

The right vape pen will blend seamlessly into your lifestyle. Vaping shouldn't be a burden or a chore. It shouldn't be something to worry about, and it most certainly shouldn’t be a waste of money. Ending up with the wrong device for your life can be maddening. Consider how you want to use your pen and what you will need it for.

If you tend to use your device frequently or for long periods of time, you may want to consider a vape pen with a larger battery to get you through the day. The same may be said if you prefer to share your pen with others. You'll also want to plan for a larger capacity tank or chamber to accommodate these more intense moments. For those looking to lighten their load, a variety of sleek and discreet vape pens are at your disposal.

Vape pens can be the simplest vape devices to operate. Often, only a single button is utilized for operation. This system leaves very little room for confusion and doubt and provides a consistent and predictable result with every click. The technology hides behind the scenes in the devices to ensure a pleasant user experience. On the other side of that spectrum, some vape pens go to great lengths to bring technology to the forefront of the user experience. These devices work to maximize the customization for each user's preference. They often feature a variety of pre-defined modes and settings as well as a display of some form.

A vaporizer can be a great way to socialize and can also be a focal point for conversation. Often a stylish and intriguing device will draw attention from passersby and fellow vapers alike. You may want to choose to express your individuality and style through your device. There are colorful and bright vape pens that feature LED lights and eye-catching designs. There are also simple and elegant devices that blend into a professional lifestyle with barely a notice and many that fall somewhere in between.

In choosing a vape pen, you will need to decide what you will need the device for. If you are looking for an electronic cigarette, you'll want to be sure to choose a device designed specifically for e-liquids. Vape pens for e-cigs have different requirements for temperature and output than a cannabis vape. These devices often have specialized atomizer connections that enable the use of a wide variety of atomizers and have become standard in the e-cig market.

If you're interested in a cannabis vape pen, you'll want to narrow down your preferences a bit to make the best choice. A pen designed for dry herbs may leak when used with wax or oils. A pen designed for wax or oils may not allow for the entire chamber to be heated, making it nearly unusable for dry herbs. Still, other vape pens have been designed as 3-in-1 systems that allow you the flexibility to vape whichever form you choose. It can be quite difficult to have a pleasant experience with incompatible equipment. 

Safety Tips for Vape Pens

Safety should always be the number one priority in vaping. Your health and well-being are more important than any cloud could ever be. It's important to consider some key fundamentals when talking about vape pen safety.

It's important to use the devices as intended.

Modifying or adapting a high-tech and high-powered device such as a vaporizer should only be done by professionals. All portable vaporizers incorporate the use of electricity to operate. This electricity is stored within a battery cell that has been designed to output more power than traditionally available cells. While this provides a great vaping experience, when things go wrong it can often lead to equipment damage and possible injury. Batteries used for vaping should never be carried in your pocket or purse without a protective case! They can short-circuit and cause fire and explosions to occur. BE SAFE WITH YOUR CELLS.

Considering your dosage is important.

If you are vaping e-liquids that contain nicotine, be sure to use a dosage that is appropriate for you. Too much nicotine can cause nausea, anxiety, and other problems that are uncomfortable at best. If you have recently started vaping nicotine or have changed to a new and more powerful device, its best to go slowly and start with a lower concentration of nicotine. Nicotine can be fatal at high doses. While not fatal, considering your cannabis dosage can also be important. Too much cannabis can often act contrary to the intent and may result in anxiety, dysphoria, panic attacks, and more. Starting with small, measured amounts as you gain familiarity with the device can ensure you have a pleasant experience.

Where will you store your supplies?

If pets and children are in your house, you may already be familiar with some common storage techniques for things like medication and household cleaners. While not dangerous in small amounts, the often-pleasant flavors and appearance of both e-liquid and commercially available cannabis products can lead the unaware to consume far too much. Maintaining a safe and secure storage location for your vaping materials is essential to keeping everyone in your house safe. Educating your children and conditioning your pets can go a long way towards keeping everyone happy and healthy. Take the time to do it right!

Be sure to drink lots of water!

One of the most common complaints from new vapers relates to dehydration. Dry mouth, headaches, and sore throat are among the symptoms lack of water presents. The act of vaping draws moisture from your lungs and serves to dry you out, one cloud at a time. Beginner and advanced vapers alike must pay attention to the number of fluids you consume!

FAQs About Vape Pens

To save you some time and perhaps some hassle, we've collected some Frequently Asked Questions about vape pens:

How long will it take my vape pen to charge?

There are a few things to consider when we talk about charge times. The capacity of your battery cell describes how much electricity it can safely hold. A 1500mAh battery will hold roughly half the power available in a 3000mAh cell. This means that a larger battery will typically require more time to charge. The rate at which your device is charging is also an important factor to consider. As battery safety has improved with technology, our charging rates have also improved. Many devices charge at <1 Amp while "quick charge" functionality brings the rate from less than one to a range of 1 to 2 Amps. The length of time it takes for your battery to charge is determined by the equipment you are using. Each device will be slightly different. The initial charge session will typically be 20 to 40% longer than the average charge time.

Should I charge my vape pen battery overnight?

Waiting for a dead battery to charge can be one of the most frustrating parts of vaping. It's hard to deal with downtime, and while it can seem like a great idea to charge your vape overnight, you may be doing more damage than you realize.

Batteries do not like to be "overcharged," and too much power can cause stress on the metals. When we leave our device to charge for extended periods of time, whether sleeping or working, we rely on the technology within our device to prevent too much electricity from being added to our cells. If the mechanism designed to prevent overcharging fails during extended charges it can lead to fire and explosion. You should not leave your battery on a charger for extended periods of time.

Shop Top-Rated Vape Pens from DIRECTVAPOR

Here, you can find vape pens from leading brands like SMOK, Vaporesso, Innokin, and more, with options for every style, price point, and preference. Plus, we offer vape pen starter kits that make it easy to set yourself up with everything you need to jump right into a first-class vape session. Just add your favorite e-liquid, power up, and enjoy!

Make sure you invest in a vape pen that will exceed your expectations – shop DIRECTVAPOR to find your new favorite vape pen today!