With the continuous development of the vape industry, vaping has become increasingly diverse. We categorize them based on their e-liquid filling method into pre-filled pod vapes, refillable vapes, and disposable vapes.
The following will detail their characteristics and suitable users.
Disposable Vape
According to research on the history of vaping, Norman Jacobson is considered the originator of the term “vaping.” The first modern vape was invented by Chinese pharmacist Han Li in 2003 and imported to the United States in 2006.
Currently, disposable vapes generally refer to fourth-generation vapes. They are typically pre-charged and pre-filled with e-liquid and cannot be recycled after use. These disposable vapes generally have lower purchase and maintenance costs compared to the latter two types, making them ideal for beginners.
Pre-filled Pod Vape
Due to the increasingly serious pollution problems caused by traditional disposable vapes, many countries have begun to regulate them. The UK implemented a ban on the sale of disposable vapes on June 1, 2025.
Major vape manufacturers have shifted their focus to pre-filled pod vapes, which feature rechargeable batteries for extended use and enable easy flavor changes. They are more economical and environmentally friendly than traditional disposable vapes.
The first pre-fille pod vape was launched by JUUL in 2015, triggering a surge in the e-cigarette industry upon its release.
Pre-filled pod vapes are ideal for long-term vapers, effectively reducing the cost of vaping over time. Only the pod needs to be replaced, not the entire device.
Refillable Vape
Refillable vapes began to appear in the early 2010s. These devices typically consist of large e-liquid reservoirs, such as mods or tanks. They allow users to refill their own e-liquid and feature larger battery capacities and longer battery life. Functionally, they add options such as voltage adjustment and airflow. While improving the vaping experience, they also offer users more personalized options.
Refillable vapes are more complex to use than the previous ones, and are suitable for experienced users who want to generate large amounts of vapor.
The table below provides a clearer picture of the differences between them.
| Features | History | Advantages | Disadvantages | Target Audience |
| •Pre-charged & pre-filled • Cannot be reused or refilled | First modern vape invented by Han Li in 2003, imported to U.S. in 2006 | •Easy to use •No maintenance required | •High long-term usage costs •Non-reusable, causes environmental pollution | Vape beginners |
| •Rechargeable battery • Replaceable pods with fixed flavors | JUUL launched first pod vape in 2015, causing industry boom | •Low long-term operating costs •Flavors can be changed flexibly •Batteries are reusable •Small, portable, and discreet | •Battery maintenance required •The cost per unit is relatively high | People who smoke disposable vapes for a long time |
| • Large tanks / mods • Users manually refill e-liquid • Adjustable voltage & airflow | Appeared in early 2010s | •Feature-rich and customizable •The smoke was thicker •Longer service life | •High maintenance and purchase costs •Complex operation | Experienced smokers |
Hopefully, this article will help you choose the right vape for you. Follow or join the CBDVAPENEW forum to connect with more vape enthusiasts.
3 thoughts on “Pre-filled Pod Vapes, Refillable Vapes, and Disposable Vapes – Which Do You Prefer?”
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