Vape enthusiasts of all skill levels are increasingly opting for vape pods and cartridges.
In the last few years, the word vape cartridge has also taken on a new connotation among vapers. These devices are available at all places selling vaping items, from corner stores to upscale vape shops.
If you’re new to vaping, finding out about cart vs vape might make you feel a little lost.
When it comes to refilling an e-cigarette, aren’t they both simply two slightly different kinds of e-juice containers to use?
The two types of vaping devices are essentially the same at their fundamental level. However, as you learn more, you will see that there are significant performance and purpose differences between cartridge-based and pod-based devices.
To answer your question, what are the key distinctions between vape cartridges and vape pods? Let’s look into it.
Cart VS Vape: A Quick Summary
|
Cartridge |
Vape Pods |
|
Generally, pen styled |
Smaller and lightweight |
|
Suitable with any vape device |
Due to variable dimensions, it is not compatible with every kind of vape device |
|
Complicated installation process |
The magnetic system makes it easier to place |
|
Comparably customizable |
Limits within built-in settings and features |
|
Works optimally longer with 510-compliant batteries |
Last longer than carts |
Vape Pods Explained
Vape pods are a more user-friendly alternative to standard vape tanks. If you’re acquainted with the basic structure of a vape kit, they hold the coil and e-liquid, much like tanks.
The original idea of vape pods was to provide an easier, less maintenance option for vape tanks.
Let’s understand the vape pods better by the features given below-
- Material: Most vape mods are made of polycarbonate or plastic.
- Coil: Vape mods may sometimes come with built-in coils for vaping. Because of this, you can’t remove the coil and replace it. When the vape coil burns out, users just replace the whole pod.
- Maintenance: As a few vape pods come with built-in vape coils, it makes vaping easier for the user since they won’t need to clean their tank, deal with messy coil swaps, or even figure out which coil is best for their vape kit.
- Type of Connection: Most vape pods include magnetic fittings that let you easily insert and remove the pod from the vape tank. This is an effort to streamline and improve upon the more cumbersome and inconvenient vape tanks that employ screw fittings, similar to vape carts.
Additionally, most vape pods come prefilled with e-liquid. You may be familiar with prefilled vape pods from brands like JUUL, Vuse, or Vype and more contemporary offerings like Elf Bar BC5000 Ultra.
Vape Cartridge Explained
You may store liquids, extracts, distillates, or oils in vape cartridges. Using and operating a battery correctly, vaporizer cartridges may attach the material to the ideal vaporizing temperature. As a result, the concentrate undergoes a chemical process that makes it possible to inhale a thin mist without burning it.
You may vape a wide variety of gathers, oils, liquids, and distillates with a variety of cartridge designs. Whether you’re a vaping newbie or an old pro, vape pen cartridges are the way to go because of their versatility, ease of use, compact size, and compatibility with a wide range of e-juices.
Most vape pen carts use the most common style for connecting with vape pen batteries- ”510 thread”. Cartridges are not magnets like vape tanks, and they join to the batt with an attachment. While most cartridges use this somewhat universal connection style, it doesn't imply that all batteries and oil concentrates will be compatible with every cartridge.
When shopping for a vape cart, you must familiarize yourself with the many styles, materials, features, quality levels, and specifications applicable to various oil kinds and battery voltages.
Picking the incorrect cartridge might ruin your vaping experience, resulting in bad-tasting vapors and wasting concentrates you like most.
However, People often search for how long a vape pod lasts.
It depends on how much you vape. In general, however, each pod holds a certain quantity of e-liquid, and when combined with the device's battery life, this gives you a ballpark for how many puffs you may expect.
People usually mean the number of puffs a vape pod can offer when they ask how long the pods last.
Difference Between Vape Pods And Cartridges
Carts and vape pods are easy to use, require less effort, and are convenient. Still, they differ in several ways.
Design
Filled with e-liquids and screwed with a battery, carts often look like a pen. As they normally come in pen-style, consumers generally refer to the 510-threaded vape devices as pen vapes. They also refer to carts as THC pens, vape pens, weed oil pens, vapor bats, and CBD pens.
The reason is its style using the thread on the cart’s bottom. This “510” name refers to the connector’s length and the number of threads used to connect the batt.
However, vape pods come in a wide variety of designs. Compared to cartridges, they are more compact and less heavy. Unlike visible glass cartridges, they are imperceptible due to the opaque substance on the outside.
Compatibility
If your vaping device contains threads similar to those in your cartridges, you may use them without a problem. This function allows users to test various e-liquids and products from different brands.
While many types of vape pods seem identical, their sizes actually vary. That’s why they can’t work together. When you buy a pod from a certain brand, you have no choice but to continue using that brand exclusively.
Convenience
Though both carts and pods are easy to use, cartridges are more complicated. Yeah, that’s true!
You can easily install pods as they have magnetic properties. It helps the pod clasp stay securely in place, and there would be no leakage. Additionally, their low maintenance makes pods great for first-time users.
On the contrary, you need to put in the effort to install a cart system. Thread alignment is critical for a secure connection and airtight seal. Plus, cartridges are more costly to repair than other types of parts since they need specific cleaning solutions and wear out quickly when scrubbed with a brush.
Flavor
Vape pods provide a more uniform flavor transmission than cartridges. Due to their integrated coils and reduced airflow variances, they retain a consistent juice taste concentration.
On the other hand, the intricate setup of carts can cause the taste of vapor to be lost.
Personalization and Ease of Use
Unlike vape pods, cartridges allow for more personalization. For e-cigarette users looking to switch things up without breaking the bank, carts are a great option.
You can fulfill your vaping preferences with a cartridge by trying vape liquids, adjusting the vaporization settings, and adding new components. Cartridges are a great practical alternative for vapers who are looking for something new.
Vape mods are an exception to this rule. Because pods don’t allow customization, you’re limited to using the pre-installed features and settings. This makes them ideal for first-time vaporizers.
Ability To Last
Contrary to cartridges, vape pods last long since they are compatible with certain efficient batteries. On the contrary, carts work best with any battery that complies with 510 threads, even if it’s inefficient. But, a rechargeable battery-linked cartridge can have a longer runtime.
Price
Vape pods are more expensive than cartridges. You can’t change or customize a pod’s characteristics. If the one you buy doesn’t have enough vaping capacity, you will need to buy more pods.
Pods indeed need less maintenance. But if one part breaks, you have to purchase a new one. Getting it repaired won’t help; you will need a new pod.
Cartridges, with their adaptability and low maintenance requirements, popped this bubble. When a component of your cart breaks, you may fix it by replacing it or making some adjustments. This way, the whole system can continue to work, making them affordable.
9 Safety Tips For Vape Pods
- Always keep the battery’s charge level up to 50-50%.
- When not in use, carefully store the external batteries in a container in a safe and dry place. Otherwise, the batteries may become damaged and lead to short circuits.
- While not in use, keep the battery off.
- If you use a different charger for your vape pod, it could damage the battery. Always use an accurate charger.
- Never vape around flammable liquids or gasses such as propane, oxygen, or gasoline.
- Regularly clean the pod’s atomizer tank and mouthpiece.
- Store your vape juice in a dark and cool environment.
- Clean the coils regularly. If needed, change it.
- To avoid fires or explosions, avoid overcharging or charging overnight.
9 Safety Tips For Cartridges
- Always choose a ventilated and cool place for storage.
- Store the vape cartridges upright.
- If your vape pen has temperature settings, starting with the lowest level is best. This ensures optimal flavor.
- It’s wise to use the right and quality hardware that is compatible with your cart hardware.
- To get the best performance, fully charge the cart.
- Make sure you use an accurate voltage setting to adequate hit and vaporization.
- Act gently with the contact points while connecting the cart with the battery.
- Give your vape cart a five- to ten-minute gap to cool down after a session. This helps you avoid overheating your device.
Which One Should You Use? (Perfect Option)
So, you see, there are several similarities and at the same time, distinctions between vape carts and pods. But which one should you choose? Which one is the superior?
Well, it depends.
If price is more of a concern for you, a cartridge is a suitable option. Once the pod is damaged or any part is broken, you have to buy a new one. However, you can fix or replace a broken cart and easily use it with your vape pen again.
Beyond price, every vaper looks for more important factors, like efficiency, portability, and user-friendliness. Both products have these hallmarks. Consequently, the decision between carts and pods will depend on personal preferences.
If you prefer convenience and an easy-to-go nature, pods have surpassed other conventional vape kits in popularity. The widespread availability of disposable vapes has also contributed to their continued appeal; many people who began their quest to stop smoking with disposables are now looking for a more permanent alternative.
We suggest Myle Mini disposable pods for anyone who wants to go beyond disposable vaporizers. Disposable aficionados will enjoy the different refreshing and delicious ways to experience nicotine.
However, vape carts are best for you if you are looking for quick and controlled relief and vaporizing effects. If you need microdose, the precise controlled system of vape carts allows you to take a slow low approach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Vape Pod Better Than A Vape Pen?
If you’re a beginner, both options are best. While pod kits offer convenience and easy-to-operate features, vape pens are also competitive by offering customization options, power, and versatility. So, we suggest trying each of them and finding out which suits your purpose well.
Which Pod Is Best For Smoke?
Try Uwell Caliburn TENET G2 for outstanding vapor and flavor from your nic salt or vape juice. Its pod-based rotating dial allows you to adjust its airflow.
Do Pods Last Longer Than Cartridges?
The answer is yes. Pods use more efficient batteries, which extends the product's lifespan.
Cart vs. Vape Debate: Get The Right One!
So, cart vs vape is always a great debate; both are essential for vapers. In some ways, they share the same features, like portability and ease of use. These features are useful while you’re in a public gathering or searching for a free space in a crowded place.
However, when it comes to design, compatibility, customization options, and longevity, their differences are evident. Every vaper is unique, and so are their preferences. So, choosing one between these two options can be a bit difficult.
New vapers should try vaping pods as these devices are easier to operate. Also, as they allow you to customize your vaping option, you can adjust the features to fit your needs.
However, at the end of the day, it all depends on your personal preference and purpose.