Choosing the Right Vape in 2023

The DIRECTVAPOR Guide to Choosing the Right Vape in 2022

It doesn’t matter if it’s your first or fifteenth time shopping for a new vape - the sheer number of available options can be overwhelming. There are so many vapes to choose from, each one boasting its own unique features. Especially if you’re relatively new to vaping, it can feel impossible to know where to begin.

Worry not! DIRECTVAPOR is on a mission to match every vaper with the perfect vape. That’s why we’ve created your go-to guide to selecting the right vape for you, making it easier to sort through all of the best vapes of 2022. 

We’ll dive deep into the key components of vape starter kits, different kinds of vapes, and everything else you need to know before shopping.

What are the Basics of a Vape Starter Kit?

Nine times out of ten, investing in a vape starter kit is your best bet. These kits include all the essentials you need to enjoy a solid vape session right out of the box. You won’t need to spend time matching compatible parts or shopping around for different pieces because almost everything is included in the kit. 

There are generally three key components in a vape kit:

1. The battery

The vape battery is the vape device’s source of power. Depending on the vape, your battery may provide more or less power than others. There are also variations in battery life. Rechargeable vape devices will typically come with a charging cable. Some vapes have built-in batteries and others boast the ability to remove and replace batteries on your own. There are pros and cons to both -- learn about them and then spend some time thinking about which design would better fit your uses.

2. The mod

Think of the mod as the portion of the vape that holds the battery. In this piece, you’ll find all the electrical circuits that actually control the device’s operation and the chip that regulates the wattage and other settings.

3. The atomizer

The atomizer is a vital hardware element that contains the vape’s heating element, the coil. It is also where you’ll add e-juice (the liquid you vape).

These three foundational components are the basis of nearly every vape device. From there, the specifics can vary, depending on what type of vape you’re working with.

Types of Vaping Devices

Before finding the best vape of 2022, you’ll need to understand the different available types.

All-in-One (AIO) Vapes

The All-in-One (AIO) vape is an entry-level option that’s been around since the early days of vaping. It was designed to be easy to use, incorporating the three basic vape components into a single, no-hassle device - hence the name, “All-in-One.” This term can encompass various vape device styles, including vape pens, e-cigs, and pod vapes (more on those in a moment).

AIO vape devices typically feature a built-in battery, atomizer, and a mod component that fires at just one wattage level. They are compact, lightweight, and convenient for taking on the go. One of the advantages of AIO vapes is that there’s no need to tinker with different settings (including wattage) to achieve optimal flavor and cloud production. 

Recommended for: All vapers, including beginners

Pros

• User-friendly
• Affordable
• Portable
• Require minimal maintenance

Cons

• Few customization options, if any
• Battery life can be limited

Disposable Vapes

A disposable vape is exactly what it sounds like: a vape device intended to be disposed of once empty. When you shop for disposable vapes, you’ll notice that they are usually labeled with “puff counts.” This is the approximate number of puffs a specific device will provide, giving you a good idea of how long a disposable vape lasts. 

Many vapers like disposable vapes for a quick, no-fuss vape session. And because they’re incredibly budget-friendly, they are a great entry point for brand-new vapers.

Recommended for: All vapers, specifically those on a budget

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Variety of e-liquid flavor options
• Easy to use
• It gives you the flexibility to experiment with different brands

Cons

• Costs can add up for frequent vapers
• Few to no customization capabilities 

Box Mod Vapes

Box mods can be an ideal fit for vapers with more experience. This type of vape produces intense flavor and impressive vapor clouds while offering excellent flexibility in terms of customization.

Typically, box mods are sold separately from the batteries and atomizers. However, some first-class box mod kits are out there, which can give you an easy way to get started with this vape type.

With a box mod, you have the freedom to mix and match the components based on your personal preferences. By customizing your set-up, you can tailor wattage and other performance aspects - which is a significant advantage for many vapers.

If you’re interested in trying an RBA (Rebuildable Atomizer), then a box mod is what you’ll need. The ability to adjust power settings is vital for vapers using RBAs. 

There are regulated and unregulated (also called “mechanical”) box mods. It is very important to be aware that mechanical box mods are not equipped with a power-regulating chip, so they allow the device to be operated at the highest wattage possible. You may be able to achieve the next level in flavor and cloud production, but you must also have the know-how to use this vape device safely. With modern technology now being fully leveraged for vaping enjoyment, there aren’t many good reasons for going with an unregulated mod. Regulated mods provide the same power, at more attractive prices, and require less user input -- freeing up time for more vaping!

Recommended for: Intermediate to experienced vapers

Pros

• Plenty of customization options
• Top-tier cloud production and flavor quality
• Outstanding battery life (with the option to have extra batteries on hand)
• High power levels

Cons

• Somewhat bulkier, which can be inconvenient for some vapers
• It may require a certain level of maintenance, particularly with RBAs

Pod Vapes

For a good reason, pod-style vapes are one of the hottest new trends in the world of vaping. This recently-debuted vape style is incredibly convenient and user-friendly, and many brands have created pod vapes that fit neatly in the palm of your hand.

Usually, a pod starter kit will use a built-in battery and includes at least one pre-filled e-liquid cartridge (the “pod”). The pod replaces the atomizer that is used for standard vapes. 

Pod kits are usually designed to use a specialized e-liquid called “nicotine salts,” which deliver higher concentrations of nicotine with a much smoother throat hit.

Because there is a higher volume of nicotine, less of the liquid is needed to deliver the nicotine. So, a pod vape requires a far lower power level - but the results remain just as good. You can look forward to longer battery life and a fantastic experience, all contained within a super-compact device.

The pod mod is a perfect match for individuals interested in making the transition away from traditional cigarettes. The mouth-to-lung (MTL) technique used with pod vapes, combined with the high nicotine levels, provides an experience pleasantly reminiscent of a classic cigarette.

If you’re someone that prefers “stealth vaping” (vaping with low levels of vapor production for discretion purposes), pods are also a worthwhile consideration.

Recommended for: All vapers

Pros

• Very portable
• Easy to use
• Recreates an experience similar to smoking cigarettes
• Smaller batteries charge much faster
• Good battery life

Cons

• For certain vapers, the nicotine content may be too high
• The small size of pod vapes can make them easier to misplace for some

How to Find the Best Vapes for You

Once you have a good idea of the options available, you’ll need to decide which one is right for you. This is primarily a matter of personal preference since no two vapers are exactly alike.

By answering some of the questions below, you can better understand what vape type might be ideal:

• How much vape experience do you have?
• How often do you plan to vape? And how long do your vape sessions tend to last?
• Do you want a vape that is easy to use on the go? Or will you be vaping at home most of the time?
• Are high power levels a major priority?
• Do you want to be able to have complete control of your vape experience (via customization capabilities)? Or do you prefer a simple, no-fuss vape experience?

If you are still unsure how to choose the right vape, talk to your fellow vapers. Other vapers are your best information resource, whether you talk to friends or family members or participate in discussions in online vaping forums.

Got Vaping Questions? Search Our Site for Answers!

DIRECTVAPOR has been known as an industry-leading provider of premium vape products, but did you know that we’re also a trusted source for vape information and education? 

From breaking down how vaping works to providing a comprehensive glossary, we have you covered with all the must-know vape intel. And even better, you can use the search bar at the top of this page to look for any topic you’re interested in - give it a try!

Score Your New Favorite Vape from DIRECTVAPOR Today

Now that you’re informed and ready to shop for the best vapes 2022 has to offer, it’s time to start your search. 

DIRECTVAPOR offers a massive selection of the top brands in the business, including various types of vapes, price points, and more.

Whether you’re on the hunt for a budget-friendly e-cig or ready to treat yourself to a next-level box mod, DIRECTVAPOR is the place to be.

Because we only carry 100% authentic, high-quality vapes (no clones here!), you can be confident that you’re investing in a product you’ll love. 

Browse our full selection of vape kits and mods to find your perfect vape today!